Costa Mesa City Council
November 18, 2025

ATTACHMENT 1
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Fairview Park
Master Plan Update DRAFT. 2025-09-29
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27 6T 5
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"The site could be planned as the City's premier park, to include a wide diversity of recreational opportunities encompassing natural passive park land. The Master Plan for this site must address the distinctive character of the location and its adjacencies providing a park with unique citywide significance. The Santa Ana River, Talbert Nature Preserve, and the bordering school properties all should influence the park design and layout. In addition, the park contains important cultural and natural features which should be planned for future protection." City of Costa Mesa Parks, Recreation, and Open space Master Plan, January 1996
Facing page photo by City of Costa Mesa.
3 Existing Planning Existing Site Opportunities
01 Introduction 02 Conditions 03 ) 4 Constraint
•Conditions
7 Executive Summary 21 The Site & Adjacent Uses 33 Site History 55 Considerations 12 Goals & Objectives 23 Previous Plans 36 Geology & Soils 56 Constraints 13 The Master Plan Process 24 Regulatory Framework 38 Site Drainage & Hydrology 58 Opportunities 17 Outreach Summary 28. General Plan. 39 Cultural, Tribal Cultural, 60 Habitat Restoration Paleontological & Archaeological
29 Open Space Master Plan Resources
30 Local Coastal Program 43 Biological Resources
30 Utilities & Easements 51 Site Features
31 Transportation Plans
Contents DRAFT

4. 05 Design Objectives 06 The Master Plan 07 Implementation 08 Appendices
64 Public Use 67 The Master Plan 96 Design Guidelines Appendix A: Outreach Documents 65 Cultural, Tribal Cultural & 68 Park Entrance & Parking Appendix B: Biological Resources Restoration Technical Report
69 West of Placentia Avenue
Appendix C: 2023 Vegetation
73 East of Placentia Avenue Map and Habitat Restoration Opportunities, with Attachment A.
74 The Northwestern Lowlands Habitat Restoration Guidelines, and Attachment B: Long-term Invasive
75 Passive Uses & Circulation Trails
Plant Management Plan
77 Interpretive Program Appendix D: Cultural, Tribal
Cultural, and Paleontological
78 Habitat Restoration & Enhancement
Resources Assessment
79 Habitat Restoration & Enhancement
Targets
81 Other Management Opportunities: *Appendices can be found at:
www.costamesaca.gov/lvpmp
82 Strategic Habitat Restoration Project
Opportunities
86 Long-Term Invasive Plant
Management Plan
87 Existing Fill Soil Removal
88 Drainage Issues
89 Erosion Control Measures
91 Developed Park Drainage &
Hydrology
DRAFT
92 Security & Fire Prevention
Contents
01 Introduction DRAFT
Executive Summary DRAFT
The Fairview Park Master Plan Update has attracted enthusiasm for the task of refining the master plan document to reflect current conditions and concepts for restoring and preserving the park as an environmental resource for study, interpretation, and education as well as passive recreation and a range of compatible public uses. These include walking and jogging trails, picnicking, wildlife viewing and nature exploration, unique hobbyist activities and other low-impact activities that connect community residents to the natural environment. Balancing resource protection and public use, which reflects the vested interests of the community and the City, is the essential purpose of this plan update. The Master Plan plays an important part in telling the greater story of this 208-acre parkland and conservation area. Fairview Park is a beloved cultural and natural resource asset for the community of Costa Mesa and the region and residents are deeply invested in preserving the region's natural and cultural resources and ensuring future generations have the same opportunity to enjoy this beloved and unique place.

Additionally, the Master Plan Update builds upon the success of the original plan and updates, but importantly maintains the momentum generated by recent initiatives to establish a more robust set of strategies to facilitate the continuing improvement of Fairview Park. By incorporating the information presented in this report, the Fairview Park Master Plan Update can effectively address the critical need for a Long-Term Management Plan that safeguards cultural resources and conserves biological resources, including the essential vernal pool habitat. This report serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making and planning to ensure the future preservation and enhancement of Fairview Park's unique ecological features and cultural significance.

Facing page photo by City of Costa Mesa. Photo by Robert A. Hamilton Introduction 7
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Critical Themes and Initiatives
• Findings from the technical investigations serve as a valuable tool for informed decision-making and planning to ensure the future preservation and enhancement of Fairview Park's unique ecological features and cultural significance. Indigenous People Habitat Restoration
Fairview Park supports a remarkable array of special- Projects Village Use Area status plant and wildlife species, several of which are listed as threatened or endangered by state and/or federal governments. The park's combination of riparian habitats, Protected Habitat 2 Nationally Registered
coastal scrub, grasslands, and vernal pools is unique in Orange County, and rare anywhere in Southern California. Fairview Archaeological Areas Park is a regionally significant biodiversity hotspot, supporting 197 plant species-including 10 rare species—18 vegetation alliances, and critical habitat for protected wildlife such as Least Bell's Vireo, Coastal California Gnatcatcher, Burrowing • Vernal Pools & Vernal Pool Watershed Owl, and Crotch's Bumblebee. Its federally protected vernal (Federally Protected Habitat for 2 Fairy Shrimp pools sustain San Diego and Riverside fairy shrimp and eight Dedicated Species, State and Federally Protected Rare Plants) rare vernal pool plants, while over 220 bird species and 20 Land butterfly species underscore its importance as a vital wildlife Sensitive Protected. Wetland and Riparian corridor in Southern California. Species (Federally and/or State Protected Amphibians, Birds) Conservation
• Fairview Park provides an exceptional level of public Easement & Deed • Coastal Sage Scrub
Restrictions
access, featuring approximately 6.5 miles of trails the park (Federally and/or State Protected Birds, Rare Plants) has one of the highest trail densities in the region. This allows residents and visitors to enjoy passive recreational activities • Nonnative Grassland/Forbland & Native while experiencing diverse habitats and biological resources, Flower Fields a level of public access rarely permitted in other regional (Raptor Foraging and Wintering Burrowing Owls)
natural open spaces with comparable ecological and cultural significance.
8 Introduction

BIODIVERSITY DRAFT

HOTSPOT

VERNAL POOL
197 10
Rare 8
Plant Species Plant Species Special Status
Vernal Pool Plants
20 220
Federally Protected Vernal
Butterfly Species Species of Birds Pool Habitat for San Diego and Riverside Fairy Shrimp
18 Vegetation Community Alliances
Wildlife Corridor
Habitat for Protected Species, including
Least Bell's Vireo, Coastal California
Gnatcatcher, & Crotch's Bumblebee
Least Bell's Vireo Coastal California Crotch's Bumblebee Gnatcatcher
Introduction 9
DRAFT
• Threats to sensitive biological and cultural resources in avoid, or mitigate impacts to significant ecological, historical, Honor Tribal stewardship and ensure respectful handling Fairview Park come from human actions that destroy. and cultural resources. Additionally, local regulations such as of cultural materials. Any Native American cultural materials degrade, and fragment the park's natural communities Measure AA ensure that major changes to the park's facilities encountered will remain on-site for reburial in locations kept and erode protective soil cover. These threats should be and infrastructure receive community oversight, reinforcing confidential, in accordance with law and Tribal consultation. mitigated with a combination of education, management and the protection of sensitive natural and cultural areas. Ongoing collaboration with Tribal representatives will guide physical protection measures and actions. all management actions to ensure cultural integrity. • Prevent further damage to cultural resources through
• Regulatory Protections and Resource Management: Fairview site management. Erosion, unauthorized trails, vegetation Key Findings from Community Engagement:

Park's biological, cultural, and paleontological resources are clearing, pedestrian and bicycle activity are degrading sensitive protected under a comprehensive regulatory framework at areas. Stabilization should be achieved through revegetation • Strong Support for Conservation and Education:
federal, state, and local levels, including the National Historic with no-till methods, signage, barriers, and raised walkways to Community members, and representatives from local Native Preservation Act, National and California Registers of Historic protect sediments and prevent trail proliferation. American Tribes, emphasized the importance of protecting Places, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), California's Fairview Park's sensitive biological and cultural resources Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and Tribal Cultural while balancing public access and enhancing opportunities Resource provisions. These laws require that projects consider, for education. There was broad consensus on interpretive Photo by City of Costa Mesa.
10 Introduction
DRAFT
signage, a central educational area, and guided or selt- Recommendations activity through targeted revegetation, no-till stabilization guided learning experiences focused on Tribal cultural history. methods, signage, fencing, barriers, and raised walkways ecology, archaeology, and biological resources. • Recognize and protect Fairview Park as a unified Tribal Protect archaeological sites from unauthorized collection or cultural landscape. As the entire site has extremely high disturbance while maintaining public access where appropriate. • Trail Management and Public Access: Participants supported sensitivity for buried Native American origin cultural resources maintaining well-defined trails including (not just recorded locations), additional signage and physical • Restore and Enhance Habitat. Implement 80 acres of habitat elevated walkways in vernal pool areas, while limiting off-trail barriers to prevent the use of existing user-defined trails and restoration and 14.5 acres of habitat enhancement to support use, motorized vehicles, and e-bikes. Fencing, natural barriers, new trails is recommended. All ground-disturbing activities native plants and wildlife, remove artificial fill where feasible, and clear signage were encouraged to protect sensitive must involve qualified cultural resource specialists and Tribal and improve ecological health and biodiversity over the long habitats while maintaining passive public access. monitors, with an Archaeological Treatment Plan prepared in term. consultation with Tribes.
• Resource Protection Measures: The community supports • Define and Manage Trails: Establish a clearly defined trail • Prevent further damage to cultural resources through system that restores eroded or user-created paths, uses natural site management. Erosion, unauthorized trails, vegetation materials for trail delineation, and incorporates physical abatement and minimal herbicide use, along with maintaining clearing, pedestrian and bicycle activity are degrading sensitive measures to prevent the creation of new informal trails, views and access for educational purposes. There was strong areas. Stabilization should be achieved through revegetation particularly in sensitive biological and cultural areas. support for protecting vernal pools, sensitive flora and fauna, with no-till methods, signage, barriers, and raised walkways to protect sediments and prevent trail proliferation. • Enhance Public Amenities and Accessibility: Concentrate park and cultural sites throughout the park.
enhancements-including nature play, outdoor educational • Enhanced Park Operations and Amenities: Feedback • Honor Tribal stewardship and ensure respectful handling spaces, benches, picnic areas, and accessible trails-within highlighted the need for increased ranger presence, ADA- of cultural materials. Any Native American cultural materials existing developed areas such as the central lawn and east side accessible furnishings, additional dog waste receptacles, and encountered will remain on-site for reburial in locations kept of the park, minimizing impacts on sensitive habitats. improved trail and overlook access. The community endorsed confidential, in accordance with law and Tribal consultation:
the addition of a consolidated growing space on the east side Ongoing collaboration with Tribal representatives will guide • Manage Recreational Impacts: Coordinate with organized all management actions to ensure cultural integrity. user groups (i.e. model gliders and trains) to allow the of the park. continuation of designated uses while mitigating potential • Conflicting Opinions on Recreational Activities: While some • PreventResource Degradation. Reduce erosion, unauthorized environmental impacts. In accordance with Resource Agency stakeholders desired continued use of BMX trails, dirt bike trails, and impacts from pedestrian, bicycle, and off-trail recommendations, relocate the model glider flying field with mounds, and glider/model aircraft activities, others expressed the goal of reducing ongoing impacts to sensitive biological concern over their impacts on biological and cultural resources. resources.

These conflicting viewpoints indicate the need for careful balancing of recreational activities with conservation priorities in the Master Plan Update and application of regulatory requirements.

Introduction 11
Goals & Objectives DRAFT
The following goals and objectives were defined in the
consultant's scope of work, and were adopted during
the City Council meeting of January 17, 2023 when the
contract was approved by the City Council.

Protect, preserve, and enhance the unique natural and
01 cultural resources of Fairview Park.

To restore and enhance the park as an environmental
resource, and provide interpretive opportunities to
02 educate users of the park's unique ecology, cultural history, and resources.

To manage the park as a passive recreational
03 opportunity.

To engage stakeholders, users, and the community
04 at large in developing a blueprint to manage the
park, which accounts for passive use recreation,
environmental restoration and preservation, and
funding considerations for years to come.

Photo by City of Costa Mesa.
12 Introduction
The Master Plan Process DRAFT
The Master Plan Update process recognizes the interdependence Community Outreach Tribal Advisory Group (TAG) Site Visit (October 18, 2023) - The of meaningful stakeholder engagement, biological investigations, City and members of the MIG Team conducted a site visit so environmental documentation, and public use of the park. Additionally, a Community Outreach Plan was developed, that representatives of local Native American Tribes can better MIG staff has provided park planning, engagement, biological reviewed, and approved by City staff. General direction to the understand project elements and potential impacts on sensitive and environmental analysis and documentation. Land IQ has consultant team has been given by the general public in open cultural areas. provided biological resource and restoration ecology services meetings, and at city and community events such as Fairview Park in collaboration with Hamilton Biological, who conducted Habitat Restoration Days and Earth Day 2024. several field investigations and provided an avian inventory and vegetation survey. Cogstone Resource Management Group led Below is a summary of community and stakeholder meetings conducted:
the Tribal Advisory Group, archeology, paleontology, and Tribal cultural resource services.

Fairview Park Steering Committee Meeting 1 (June 14,
2023) - The MIG Team presented an overview of the project The project included the following tasks: scope, schedule, background documents, existing conditions, potential approaches and strategies for restoration and habitat • Review of existing documentation enhancement. There was a facilitated discussion with the purpose • Community outreach of gaining an understanding of the committee members' vision for Fairview Park regarding elements for consideration in the Master • Resource assessment and analysis of existing conditions Plan Update including lessons learned from previous restoration efforts.
• Update findings and recommendations
• Environmental compliance documentation Community Workshop 1 (August 31, 2023) - The MIG Team presented an overview of the project purpose, process, schedule, The project kicked off with the compilation and review of relevant and background. Initial observations about existing site conditions project documents including the following: planning documents; and opportunities and constraints were presented. Small group existing biological surveys and observations; environmental discussions were conducted and were the primary method to documentation; relevant codes, regulations, and legal documents; capture community feedback to inform the Master Plan Update. and existing historical and cultural documents and reports. The MIG Team prepared a memo report summarizing the findings. Fairview Park Steering Committee Meeting 2 (October 11, 2023) - The MIG Team presented findings from field investigations of biological resources, habitat restoration and enhancement opportunities. Public comment on items presented was provided.

Photo by City of Costa Mesa.

Introduction 13
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Tribal Advisory Group (TAG) Meetings - The MIG Team presented To complete resource assessments and analysis of existing Focused surveys in June and July, 2024, for Crotch's Bumble Bee an overview of the Master Plan Update to obtain feedback conditions, site investigations began in the spring of 2023. A were conducted by Endemic Environmental Services across 16.5 from experts that have a local understanding of the potential team meeting occurred on March 29, 2023 and biological field acres of the park planned for habitat restoration. These surveys impacts on park use and proposed restoration activities, or park investigations began late winter and early spring of 2023 to produced photographic records of 13 Crotch's Bumble Bees improvements on cultural, archaeological and paleontological provide the basis for the biological field surveys. Investigations utilizing a variety of native and non-native shrubs and forbs. resources at the park. of site cultural and paleontological resources and analysis of park (Endemic Environmental Services. 2024. Crotch's Bumble Bee resources, uses and activities were conducted in the summer of photo-only survey report for the Fairview Park Mesa Restoration Parks and Community Services Commission Meeting (June 27, 2023 followed by a final field visit on March 25, 2025 and the final Project located in the City of Costa Mesa, California. Technical 2024) - MIG presented progress on the Master Plan Update, an Biological Resources Technical Report dated May 8, 2025. This report submitted to the California Department of Fish and overview of public feedback, and summary of resource assessment technical report can be found in Appendix B. findings to inform Commissioners of the progress of the work and present, discuss, and gather feedback about the emerging Botanical field investigations were completed by botanist James Biologist Robert Hamilton conducted wildlife investigations on recommendations for the Fairview Park Master Plan Update. Bailey on April 28, May 21, and June 8, 2023, to develop a nine dates between February 10 and June 8, as summarized in comprehensive list of plants in the park and to search all habitat Table A, below.

Fairview Park Steering Committee Meeting 3 (July 10, 2024) - communities for special-status species potentially present. Each The MIG Team presented 20 recommendations for discussion to botanical survey lasted seven to eight hours, and covered the determine adoption of proposed recommendations. western side of the park, focusing on the vernal pools, grasslands, and scrub-covered bluff. The northern riparian lowlands were Community Workshop 2 (September 4, 2024) - The MIG visited on April 28 and the area east of Placentia Avenue was Table A: Wildilfe Survey Summary Team presented an overview of completed studies, resident visited on June 8. Due to the extended rainy season, many plants Weo (MPH) DATE TIMeS TEMPS (*F) Ser CONDITIONS
feedback, selection criteria guiding recommendations and flowered about a month later than usual during the first half of 2-3 2/10/23 1615-1700 66 80% overcast
draft recommendations of the Master Plan Update. Interactive 2023. The earliest vernal pool indicator species detected was open house stations followed the presentation and covered 3/28/23 1330-1730 58-59 50% overcast 3-5 slender woolly-marbles (Psilocarphus brevissimus), and the latest the following: Trails and Public Access, Public Education and was mud fiddleleaf (Nama stenocarpa). During the more typical 3/31/23 1520-1700 62 90% overcast 4-8 Interpretation, Resource Conservation and Preservation, year of 2017, James Bailey observed that these two species had 1530-1700 64 20% overcast 4-6 4/7/23
Operations and Maintenance, Site Activities and Uses. reached maturity and produced inflorescences by early March 4/14/23 1555-1645 63-61 40-30% overcast 2-5
and mid-April respectively. In 2023, however, these milestones City Council Study Session (January 28, 2025) - The MIG Team were pushed back to mid-April for Psilocarphus and mid-June 4/28/23 0805-1205 57-65 100% overcast 1-4 presented progress on the Master Plan Update to inform City for Nama. Specifically, late-season showers on May 3, 4, and 5 5/19/23 1530-1655 64 100% overcast 3-5 Council of the progress of the work and present, discuss, and refilled the vernal pools with nearly 1 inch of water. While early 5/28/23 0700-10:20 59-63 100% overcast 1-3
gather feedback about the draft recommendations for the Fairview season species had already developed by this time, later season Park Master Plan Update and review next steps for environmental: 6/8/23 0905-1115 65 60% overcast to hazy 1-6 species were stalled by repeated submergence, until the ponds dried again in mid to late May.
14 Introduction
DRAFT
The purpose of the wildlife visits in 2023 was to collect current the project archaeologist requested a Sacred Lands File (SLF) the Project Area, on the same schedule. Cogstone is aware of five information on the distribution of plant and wildlife species across search from the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) responses total.

Fairview Park. Nearly all of the survey effort was expended west The NAHC responded on December 4, 2023 with a positive of Placentia Avenue, with an emphasis on attempting to detect search result indicating that a tribal cultural resource is located On October 25, 2024, Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Belardes within the same township, range, and section as the Project Area. Cultural Resources Director Joyce Perry responded via electronic (a) special-status species potentially present, and (b) species detectable only when the vernal pools have water (as they did The NAHC recommended that the Gabrieleño Band of Mission mail indicating that Tribes want to engage in formal consultation during and after the exceptionally wet rainy season of 2022/2023). Indians - Kizh Nation, the Gabrieleño/Tongva San Gabriel Band on this project, noting, "this project is located in an extremely of Mission Indians, the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, and the sensitive area to our tribe." Fairview Park is located on the sacred MIG staff conducted a reconnaissance-level field visit in 2023 to Juaneño Band of Mission Indians Acjachemen Nation - Belardes village site and known burial area of Genga. This place is also prepare a current GIS-based map of vernal pools, wetlands, and be contacted for more information and provided a list of nine identified as the archaeological site CA-ORA-58, which is listed other features that fall within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army groups and individuals that may have information about the Project on the National Register of Historic Places.

Corps of Engineers and areas within Fairview Park, but outside of Area. Cogstone sent letters inviting all groups and individuals existing wetland mitigation sites. on the NAHC to engage in Native American tribal consultations On April 3, 2024, Cogstone archaeologists Pamela Gutierrez and Alyssa Polito conducted a field survey of the boundaries of under Assembly Bill (AB) 52 and Senate Bill (SB) 18 via United The project archaeologist requested a search of the California States Postal Service certified mail on October 7, 2024. Cogstone the previously documented cultural resources P-30-000058 and Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) from the South P-30-000506 to assess damage to the resources caused by runoff. followed up via electronic mail (original consultation letter was Central Coastal Information Center (SCCIC), which included the unauthorized "social" walking trails, vegetation clearing, etc. attached) message on October 25, 2024 and by telephone call entirety of Fairview Park. Results of the record search indicate that Ms. Gutierrez and Ms. Polito conducted the survey in 10-meter on November 8, 2024. (Appendix D). Cogstone also sent Native 17 previous studies have been completed within the Park; seven of transects and by following the narrow, cleared paths along the American Scoping letters to two individuals representing groups these postdate the 2002 Fairview Park Master Plan. Additionally, that are not on the NAHC list but may have information about park and site boundaries. Cogstone archaeologist Sandy Duarte UNT
Photos by City of Costa Mesa.

Introduction 15
DRAFT
returned to the park to complete the damage assessment survey summarized and synthesized into the DRAFT Master Plan Update The steps for preparation of the environmental documentation are on April 19, 2024 and was able to identify and quantify additional document. The next steps are to share the DRAFT Master Plan outlined below:
areas of disturbance to the cultural resources. Update for public comment for a 30-day period and to receive and incorporate feedback into a final document. • Submit draft project description MIG staff has visited the site nine times to document and evaluate • Receive city staff feedback on project description
existing site uses and facilities. These visits occurred in a variety of The DRAFT Master Plan Update will be utilized to initiate the seasons to observe and analyze site conditions during both wet environmental compliance documentation phase of work. • Revise project description and dry weather. Additionally, MIG staff visited the site during Because no specific development projects within the park are • Submit admin draft IS/MND
typical and high-use days to observe site usage patterns during detailed in the Master Plan, it was determined that a programmatic events including OCME Free Train Ride Days, MIG recorded this Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) would be (Swunate • Receive city staf fedback on admin drat IS/MND data and developed an inventory of GiS based assets management suitable for the Master Plan. The environmental impact analysis inventory. presented in the Initial Study will focus on those policies and • Submit public review draft IS/MND programs in the Master Plan Update that could have a direct• 30-day public review of IS/MND Together, these field investigations and mapping tasks informed or indirect physical impact on the environment. In order for the the development and delivery of a Biological Resources City to approve the Master Plan Update with an IS/MND, all • Submit draft Response to Comments (RT), Mitigation Monitoring Technical Report, a 2023 Vegetation Map and Habitat Restoration identified direct and indirect impacts must be mitigated to less and Reporting Program (MMRP), Notice of Determination (NOD) Opportunities Report and a Cultural, Tribal Cultural, and than significant levels. The MIG Team will prepare the necessary • Receive city/staff feedback on RTC, MMRP, NOD Paleontological Resources Assessment. technical reports to support the Initial Study. These technical reports will identity avoidance measures and Best Management • Submit final RTC, MMRP, NOD To complete the Master Plan Update findings and Practices to be applied to each future project developed under • Planning commission/City Council hearing recommendations, the MIG Team evaluated the park's diverse the Master Plan to avoid significant environmental impacts, as resources and assets. Along with City staff, the team developed defined by CEOA. • Agency review meetings findings and community input. Twenty-four recommendations The MIG Team will prepare an Initial Study based on the City's • Prepare permitting flow chart document and narrative were developed, presented to and approved by the Fairview: Environmental Checklist to analyze the Master Plan Update's Park Steering Committee. Recommendations were grouped by The final deliverables for environmental compliance documentation potential impacts and provide thorough and comprehensive will be new and updated environmental documents and a regulatory topic areas including trails and public access, public education answers to each checklist question including an environmental and interpretation, resource conservation and preservation, permitting memo. and regulatory setting discussion, impact discussion,
operations and maintenance, and site activities and uses. The mitigation measures, as appropriate. The impact analysis will be MIG Team developed plans, graphics and exhibits to illustrate supported by tables, figures, maps, and graphics, as appropriate. the recommendations, which were presented during the outreach Source information will be referenced process. These findings and recommendations have been
16 introduction
Outreach Summary DRAFT
General direction to the consultant team has been given by the Trails: Consensus was generally formed around a desire for well public in open meetings, the Fairview Park Steering Committee, maintained and clearly defined trails along with the removal City of Costa Mesa Parks and Community Services Department, of excess trails on the mesa to protect biological and cultural and the City of Costa Mesa City Council. Additionally, input from resources, while maintaining public access. Additionally, desires local Native American Tribes has been provided separate from to utilize natural materials to define trails and prioritization the general public in recognition of their standing as sovereign of enforcement to control the use of motorized vehicles was Nations. Due to the sensitive nature of the information provided, emphasized. There was disagreement among attendees about the reports and feedback provided by the Tribal Advisory Group the appropriate use of the dirt mounds as some expressed a will remain confidential and only shared with the City of Costa desire to start allowing use by bikes and others expressed desire Mesa. to remove the mounds and associated use.

Fencing: Most attendees agreed that fencing should enhance and Community Workshops improve clarity of public use for trails and that natural materials As part of the community outreach strategy, two community should be incorporated. Consensus around the need for fencing to protect biological and cultural resources was acknowledged. workshops were conducted
Signage: Feedback centered around the need for upgraded Workshop 1: On August 31st, 2023, the first workshop was and modernized signage that serves to increase appreciation of conducted to introduce the community to the Fairview Park Master Plan and get initial feedback from the community, present initial the park and park resources. Topics for signage include cultural, findings from investigations, and learn from residents about their environmental and ecological subjects. All educational signage is ideas on improving Fairview Park. Small group discussions were to be presented in accessible and multilingual displays. conducted and were the primary method to capture community Furnishings: Community feedback centered around the desire feedback on items that will inform the Master Plan Update. for ADA accessible furniture and the use of natural materials for Approximately 100 community members and park stakeholders furnishings. Some respondents expressed a desire for existing turned out to participate in the workshop. Participants discussed park furnishings to remain, however, most respondents expressed six key features of the park including: Trails, Fencing, Signage, desire for upgraded furnishings concentrated in the existing Furnishings, Nature Play, and a Museum/Field House. Emerging lawn area. Provision for improved and additional trash and dog themes from the workshop regarding park features are summarized waste receptacles throughout the park was identified as was the below. Full summary memos for each workshop are provided in addition of benches and an accessible trail to the bluff overlook.

Appendix A.

Photos by MIG Inc.

Introduction 17
DRAFT
Nature Play: Some respondents expressed a desire for nature impact sensitive areas of the park and should be prohibited was for passive recreation and educational purposes. Restore play opportunities to be incorporated into the Master Plan voiced along with the position that glider flights have a history at existing boardwalks and protect future trails on the Mesa and Update, while others opposed providing facilities for nature play the park and should continue. through the vernal pools with elevated walkways. activities at the site. Consensus was formed around the desire to • Limit the use of vehicles on sensitive paths and develop not provide any traditional structured playground and if provided, Workshop 2: On September 4, 2024, the second workshop was protocols to regulate vehicle access to park trails. nature play should be located in the lawn area and coupled with conducted, and the design team presented the draft Master Plan Update recommendations to participants and gathered • Regulate electric bike usage across the park. educational features to enhance stewardship and appreciation of park natural resources. public feedback. The presentation included a project progress • Utilize fencing and vegetation as barriers between sensitive overview, discussion of the decision-making tree to evaluate habitat and trails.

Museum/Field House: Consensus among attendees was formed recommendations, and that a traditional museum was not desired and should be removed categories. The five categories explored built on feedback Education and Interpretation:
from the Master Plan Update. Some expressed desire for a received in Workshop 1 and included: Trails and Public Access, Consensus was generally formed around the following items:
centralized outdoor area to serve the educational and orientation Interpretation and Education, Resource Conservation and program of a museum/field house. Others expressed enthusiasm Restoration, Operations and Maintenance, Site Activities and • Make signage accessible and multilingual. for a field house that offered educational opportunities on Uses. • Provide a central interpretive area for education. numerous topics related to the park. • Integrate self-guided educational opportunities through Participant feedback on draft recommendations is summarized below. creative interpretive tools.

Additional topics addressed related to park use included consensus that E-bike use should be prohibited and is not • Provide education on topics such as archaeology, geology. compatible with and impacts user experiences at the park. There Trails and Public Access: human/wildlife interaction. was strong disagreement about the compatibility and continued use of glider activities at the park. The opinion that glider flights Consensus was generally formed around the following items:
• Retain access to the natural and vernal pool areas on the Mesa Photos by MIG Inc.
18 Introduction
DRAFT
Resource Conservation and Restoration: Opposition and conflicting feedback focused primarily on the Meeting 2: On November 8, 2023, the second meeting was held following items: with the purpose of presenting, discussing, and gathering feedback Consensus was generally formed around the following items: on the habitat restoration and enhancement opportunities for • Protect sensitive cultural and biological areas. • Some attendees expressed the desire for additional active the Fairview Park Master Plan Update. The MIG Team presented recreational activities at the park and to allow activities findings from field investigations of biological resources and • Utilize natural non-native weed abatement strategies and limit including BMX riding of the mounds and active sport the use of herbicides. habitat restoration and enhancement opportunities. Travis Brooks activities in the lawn area. Others expressed concern that along with biologist Robert Hamilton provided a presentation • Sustain and promote a balanced use of the park. these uses are detrimental to both cultural and biological that outlined a historical overview of Fairview Park, restoration resources at the park and activities should be relocated to opportunities, and recommendations. Fairview Park stakeholders Operations and Maintenance: more appropriate park facilities. were provided an opportunity to ask questions and provide • Attendees expressed strong desire to continue model aircraft comments and feedback.

Consensus was generally formed around the following items:
flying at the park and questioned the validity of the biological • Visitors would like to see an increased presence of park rangers resource findings and recommendation that the activity is Meeting 3: On July 10, 2024, the third meeting was conducted at Fairview Park. with the purpose of presenting Master Plan Update updates to incompatible with resource protection requirements. Other • Visitors understand the need for maintenance and emergency participants disagreed and expressed support for following the committee for member consideration and approval. The MIG vehicle access to the park. Access protocols should be clear the recommendation to remove the use from the park. Team presented draft recommendations and committee members and work to protect sensitive areas. commented and reviewed. Public comments were also provided and recorded. The approved recommendations are included in • Provide more dog waste receptacles and protect sensitive Fairview Park Steering Committee Meetings areas from dog access.
• Maintain views within the vernal pool areas for educational Three public Steering Committee Meetings were conducted. Parks & Community Services Commission Meeting purposes.

Meeting 1: On June 14, 2023, the first meeting was conducted with This meeting was conducted on June 27, 2024 with the purpose • Participants had positive feedback about the maintenance the purpose of presenting preliminary findings from research and and growing space proposal and would like to see this space of introducing commissioners to the Fairview Park Master Plan obtain initial feedback from the Fairview Park Steering Committee Update process and share findings for restoration and recreational on the east side of the park.
to gain local and technical understanding of the project's impacts opportunities. MIG presented an overview of the Fairview Park • Participants find the presence of motorized bikes on sensitive on the local community. The MIG Team presented an overview Master Plan Update Process including an introduction and purpose trails and areas concerning. The Master Plan Update should of the project scope, schedule, background documents, existing of the project, findings from outreach, surveys, paleontological outline specific enforcement and regulation of motorized conditions, and potential approaches and strategies for restoration research, and restoration opportunities. Meeting notes for bikes. andhabitat enhancement. There was a facilitated discussion with the Community Workshops and Steering Committee meetings can purpose of gaining an understanding of the committee members be found in Appendix A.

Site Activities and Uses: vision for Fairview Park regarding elements for consideration in the Master Plan Update including lessons learned from previous Consensus was generally formed around the following items: restoration efforts. • Provide a dedicated educational space at the park.
• Program more guided educational opportunities.

Introduction 19
02 Existing Planning Conditions DRAFT
The Site & Adjacent Uses DRAFT
The Fairview Park site is split into two distinct sections by Placentia projects have been implemented in northwest portion of the site has varied considerably from year to year, but has remained in Avenue. 155 acres lie to the west of Placentia, and 53 acres to the including 35 acres of created wetlands and native scrub habitat the southern part of the western mesa. In 2005, a reconfigured east. as part of the Fairview Wetlands and Riparian Habitat Project fly field (approximately 150-ft by 470-ft) was graded within the and the Headlands Project Mitigation Area. Fairview Channel is existing vernal pool watershed, which the Harbor Soaring Society a major storm drain structure which serves a broad area outside used with City's permission until the COVID-19 pandemic led West of Placemla Avenue
of the park boundary. The channel connects to the Greenville- to temporary closure of the park in March of 2020. In 2023, the The western border of the western section of Fairview Park is Banning Channel to the west of Talbert Nature Preserve. The City provisionally re-opened the fly field for use on weekends. joined by Talbert Regional Park (also referred to as Talbert Nature Fairview Channel lies approximately fifty feet from the backyards Currently, flying is limited to non-powered gliders on the first and Preserve). At 180 acres, Talbert Regional Park consists of North of adjoining residential properties on Swan Drive. The Swan Drive third Saturdays of the month.

Talbert and South Talbert, which is a restored natural habitat residents strongly oppose the introduction of active public use in with public access trails. The park is owned and managed by the close proximity to their backyards. The Placentia Drain, an earthen County of Orange, OC Parks. The presence of Talbert Regional drainage channel created during agricultural use of the site, cuts Park is a strong influence upon the planning of Fairview Park, An diagonally through this area from northeast to southwest. Flows opportunity exists to build upon the existing natural habitat at from this portion of the drain generally flow south along the Talbert Regional Park as a crucial wildlife corridor, connecting to border with North Talbert. the Santa Ana River system of trails and parks to other open spaces The bluffs area, soutis to Pacific Avenue (Bluff and Mesa Areal in the region, including Randall Preserve and the Huntington Beach Wetlands. Talbert Regional Park has no parking facilities Approximately 110 acres lie west of Placentia Avenue and are and is currently entered by trails only. A major access trail to defined by bluffs dropping down into Talbert Regional Park to north of Talbert Regional Park exists through Fairview Park along the west, into the Fairview Park lowlands to the north, and south Photo by MIG, Inc. the northwestern bluffs. The County of Orange has expressed to the residential community of Pacific Avenue and Canyon Drive. interest in a joint parking facility located off Placentia Avenue A parking area for 26 cars exists for park use at the north end of in the lowlands area with a new trail into Talbert, but this is not Canyon Drive. Waldorf School Orange County and Estancia High recommended in the Master Plan Update. School form the remainder of the south border of the western area.

Tha blufts to Swan Drive (Wetland and Riparian Area)
The northwest portion of the site, 45 acres, joins Talbert Regional The southeastern portion of this area contains approximately

1.62 acres utilized by the Harbor Soaring Society for flying model Park to the west, private residences on Swan Drive to the north, aircraft. Model aircraft enthusiasts have been participating in this Placentia Avenue to the east, and the park bluff to the south.

This section of the site contains important plant species and soil activity at Fairview Park since the early 1960s. Review of historical aerial imagery shows that the area devoted to the flying field conditions comprising alluvial scrub habitat. Habitat restoration Facing page photo by MIG, Inc. Photo by City of Costa Mesa.

Existing Planning Conditions 21
DRAFT
This area is also referred to as the Mesa, and is a vernal pool form. The fill was moved for study of the archaeological site limits North or Fairview Channel watershed. Several restoration projects have occurred in this area in east to west strips in the 1993 investigation, resulting in uneven including planting of coastal sage scrub, purple sage scrub, and and unnatural topography. Portions of another archaeological The site slopes steeply up from Placentia Avenue and the Fairview vernal pool habitats. Non-native grasslands on the Mesa occur on site, CA-ORA-506, lie beneath the existing developed Channel to join single family residential areas at Canary Drive. At soilsthathavebeen historically disturbed, including areasimpacted and the area east of Placentia Avenue. This site has been the the Canary Drive park boundary, there is a grade separation of by grading for the fly field and numerous informal paths. Non- subject of far less research than ORA-58. Studies conducted in approximately 15 feet; the park being higher. The slope varies, native cover exceeds 75 percent, with wild oats, annual bromes, 1994 identified certain seasonally wet areas of the western area but averages approximately 1:1, or a 45-degree slope. This slope and redstem filaree being dominant throughout. Nonnative of the park as vernal pools. This identification was an important is currently used for park entry under hazardous conditions. weeds occurring in patches include fennel, black mustard, wild ecological discovery. Vernal pools were once widespread, but Additional studies are required to find an entry solution acceptable many have given way to development before their importance to the City and the neighborhood. No parking facilities for park radish, cheeseweed mallow, and tocalote. Clustered tarplant, a was fully understood; and very few remain in Orange County. The use exist in this area and the community opposes the creation of disturbance-tolerant native herb, also occurs commonly in these pools are a protected ecosystem and closely regulated. These functions which may attract vehicles, and excessive traffic. grasslands along with scattered patches of coast goldenbush, big saltbush, mulefat, and California buckwheat. resources will be restored and protected as described in the South of Fairview Channel (Model Train Arpa)
following chapters of this document.

While the entire park area should be considered a single unified The southern portion of the east side of the park site contains Native American cultural landscape, the northwest bluff region Existing Developed Park (Lawn Area approximately 45 acres and is currently utilized by the Orange contains the registered archaeological site CA-ORA-58, which County Model Engineers (OCME) railroad. Installed as a volunteer is a well-documented and defined area to be protected and This section of the site contains the developed portion of Fairview Park consisting of approximately 13 acres of lawn and trees with project over a ten-year period, with nearly five miles of narrow preserved. With the intent of capping the archaeological site prior gauge rail track, the system is open to the general public at no to construction of new park amenities, fill material was placed on restrooms, picnic facilities, and informal gathering areas and parking for 109 cars. These existing facilities are to be retained charge one weekend each month. Other weekends are used for the Mesa in 1987 and 1988. The fill material did not, however, and improved. system maintenance and entertainment of private parties on a meet standards for capping an archaeological site, and included reservation basis. The railroad has become a popular feature, often chemically active construction and paving debris that can degrade a degrade attracting over 5,000 visitors on a weekend. The current parking is archaeological artifacts instead of preserving them. In addition East of Placentia Avenue on unimproved soil and gravel. The Goathill Junction Station has to the fill material being improper cover for the protection of a restroom, gift shop, and picnic tables. These facilities are used The entire eastern border of the park is bounded by Costa Mesa Golf Course, which is separated from the park by a fence. The for gathering for train rides and private parties. The Chris Anten Memorial Compound is a train maintenance and storage facility eastern part of the park is cut into two sections by the Fairview Channel. The north and south sections created by the channel and is not open to the public.

Second, the fill material impairs the hydrologic function of the vernal pool watershed by reducing the amount of precipitation are joined by a foot bridge which crosses the channel. The east that would feed the vernal pool complex, which is especially critical and west sections of Fairview Park are connected by a pedestrian in below-average rainfall years when the pools do not typically bridge crossing Placentia Avenue. 22 Existing Planning Conditions
Previous Plans DRAFT
The first Fairview Park Master Plan was adopted in March 1998. Since the 2008 Master Plan, several changes to resources and The Master Plan has undergone two revisions, the most recent management of the Park have occurred including the following:
update was completed in 2008. The open space of Fairview Park is included and referenced in other City and County planning 1. In 2014, Phase 1 of the Fairview Wetlands and Riparian habitat Project was completed, and Phase 2 of the project to establish 35 acres of created wetlands and native scrub habitat in the 1977 General Development Plan - County of Orange northwestern portion of the park was begun and is ongoing. 1984 General Development Plan - County of Orange and City of Costa Mesa
used with City's permission
1788 Master Plan - City of Costa Mesa led to temporary closure of the park in March of 2020. In 2023, the City provisionally re-opened the fly field for use on 1975 Fairview Park Development Plan
1998 Fairview Park Master Plan 3. In 2016, Measure AA passed with over 70% of the vote, amending the Costa Mesa Municipal Code to subject certain 2001 Fairview Park Master Plan Revised
changes to Fairview Park to voter approval.
2002 Fairview Park Master Plan Revised 4. In 2017, the City created and filled the Fairview Park Administrator staff position to help manage the natural and 2008 Fairview Park Master Plan Update
cultural resources provided within Fairview Park.

The Master Plan updates and related studies involved a range of activities gradually moving to more passive uses in each successive 5. In 2017, the City created the Fairview Park Steering Committee to provide advice to the City Council on the implementation plan. The studied uses have included golf, baseball fields, of the Master Plan and Measure AA. The Committee is
extensive interpretive center buildings, and habitat restoration. comprised of seven members appointed by the City Council.

The plans calling for more active uses and development met The Committee meets bimonthly, complies with the Brown with strong citizen opposition. A plan for potential development of the sports fields of Estancia High School by Andrew Goetz & Act, and includes the Fairview Park Administrator and other City staff as City staff liaisons.

Associates, undated, was researched and determined to have no MASTER PLAN significant impact upon the Master Plan for Fairview Park.

FAIRVIEW PARK

CITY OF COSTA MESA
Fairview Park City of Costa Mesa Master Plan
Existing Planning Conditions 23
Regulatory Framework DRAFT
Planning for Fairview Park is shaped by an extensive framework of Together, these regulations provide the foundation for responsible Hadoral Environmental Policy federal, state, and local regulations that protect cultural, biological, stewardship of Fairview Park. They ensure that the Master Plan and historical resources while guiding responsible public access Update supports the City's commitment to preserving sensitive NEPA directs federal agencies to use all practicable means and use. These laws ensure that restoration activities, proposed resources while balancing community access, environmental to "Preserve important historic, cultural, and natural aspects improvements, and long-term management decisions avoid restoration, and long-term park sustainability. of our national heritage...". If the presence of a significant or mitigate environmental impacts, respect cultural and Tribal environmental resource is identified during the scoping process, cultural resources, and preserve the park's unique character for federal agencies and their agents must take the resource into National Histolic Preservation Azi
future generations. consideration when evaluating project effects. Consideration of The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) is the primary paleontological resources may be required under NEPA when At the federal level, the National Historic Preservation Act, federal law governing the preservation of cultural and historic a project is proposed for development on federal land, or land National Environmental Policy Act, and Antiquities Act establish resources in the United States. The law establishes a national under federal jurisdiction. The level of consideration depends requirements to identify and safeguard resources of historic, preservation program and a system of procedural protections upon the federal agency involved cultural, and scientific significance. State protections, including which encourage the identification and protection of cultural and the California Environmental Quality Act, Tribal Cultural Resources historic resources of national, state, tribal and local significance. statutes, and the California Register of Historical Resources, A primary component of the act requires that federal agencies require careful evaluation of potential project impacts and the take into consideration actions that could adversely affect historic The Antiquities Act states, in part: That any person who shall integration of mitigation measures. Locally, Costa Mesa's Measure properties listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of appropriate, excavate, injure or destroy any historic or prehistoric AA provides additional oversight by requiring voter approval for Historic Places, known as the Section 106 Review Process. ruin or monument, or any object of antiquity, situated on lands certain park improvements and changes in use. owned or controlled by the Government of the United States, without the permission of the Secretary of the Department of Nattunal Register of Histonc Pisco the Government having jurisdiction over the lands on which said Applicable laws protecting vernal pool species and their habitat include the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) and The National Register of Historic Places is the nation's official antiquities are situated, shall upon conviction, be fined in a sum of not more than five hundred dollars or be imprisoned for a the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) provide for the list of buildings, structures, objects, sites, and districts worthy of conservation of threatened and endangered species and their period of not more than ninety days, or shall suffer both fine and preservation because of their significance in American history. ecosystems. These Acts prohibit the take of threatened and architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The National imprisonment, in the discretion of the court. endangered species except under certain circumstances and only recognizes resources of local, state and national with authorizations from the California Department of Fish and Although there is no specific mention of natural or paleontological significance which have been documented and evaluated resources in the Act itself, or in the Act's uniform rules and Wildlife (CDFW) and/or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). according to uniform standards and criteria. regulations [Title 43 Part 3, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)].

Under CESA and ESA, take is defined as to harass, harm, pursue, "objects of antiquity" has been interpreted to include fossils by hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the engage in any such conduct.

Forest Service, and other Federal agencies.
24 Existing Planning Conditions
DRAFT
California Environmental Quality Act inscriptions made by human agency, or any other archaeological, paleontological or historical feature, situated on public lands (lands CEOA states that: It is the policy of the state that public agencies under state, county, city, district or public authority jurisdiction, or should not approve projects as proposed if there are feasible the jurisdiction of a public corporation), except with the express alternatives or feasible mitigation measures available which would permission of the public agency having jurisdiction over such substantially lessen the significant environmental effects of such lands. Violation of this section is a misdemeanor. As used in this projects, and that the procedures required are intended to assist section, "public lands" means lands owned by, or under the public agencies in systematically identifying both the significant jurisdiction of, the state, or any city, county, district, authority, or effects of proposed project and the feasible alternatives or feasible public corporation, or any agency thereof. mitigation measures which will avoid or substantially lessen such significant effects.

California Register of Historical Resources
CEOA declares that it is state policy to: "take all action necessary to provide the people of this state with...historic environmental qualities." It further states that public or private projects financed the state. The California Register includes all properties listed or or approved by the state are subject to environmental review by determined eligible for listing on the National Register, including the state. All such projects, unless entitled to an exemption, may properties evaluated under Section 106, and State Historical proceed only after this requirement has been satisfied. CEOA Landmarks No. 770 and above. Per the California Register statute, requires detailed studies that analyze the environmental effects historical resources listed, or determined eligible for listing on the of a proposed project. In the event that a project is determined to California Register by the State Historical Resources Commission, have a potential significant environmental effect, the act requires must be given consideration under CEQA. Resources that meet that alternative plans and mitigation measures be considered. the California Register criteria must also be given consideration under CEOA. Other resources, such as resources listed on local Tribal Cultural Resources registers of historic resources or in local surveys, may be listed if they are determined by the State Historic Resources Commission As of 2015, CEQA established that "[a] project with an effect that to be significant in accordance with criteria and procedures to be may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a adopted by the Commission and are nominated; their listing in tribal cultural resource is a project that may have a significant effect the California Register is not automatic. on the environment" (Public Resources Code, § 21084.2). PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE Section 5097.5: No person shall knowingly and willfully excavate upon, or remove, destroy, injure or deface any historic or prehistoric ruins, burial grounds, archaeological or vertebrate paleontological site, including fossilized footprints, Photo by City of Costa Mesa.

DRAFT
Measure AA mitigation measures. No ITP will be issued if CDFW determines that a project would "jeopardize the continued existence" of the FAIRVIEW PARK In 2016, Measure AA passed with over 70% of the vote, amending listed species covered by the permit. the Costa Mesa Municipal Code to subject certain changes in use at Fairview Park to voter approval. Changes including 1) Citation: Cal. Fish & Game Code § 2050 et seq. construction of playgrounds, athletic fields, platforms/retaining walls for vista overlook, stairways to provide access to bluffs, California Protections for Birds new restrooms, parking lots, museum/multipurpose building, boardwalk and pedestrian bridges; 2) extended park hours for The California Fish and Game Code (FGC) states that it is unlawful community events; 3) installation of parking lot lighting; or 4) to take, possess, or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any other permanent structures are subject to voter approval. bird, except as otherwise provided by this code or any regulation made pursuant thereto.

California Endangered Species Act (CESAI:

The FGC contains several sections outlining protections for CESA prohibits the unauthorized take of any species listed birds, their eggs and nests. FC section 3503 covers unlawful as endangered or threatened under the Act. Burrowing Owl take, possession or needless destruction of nests or eggs of any (Athene cunicularia) and Crotch's Bumble Bee (Bombas crotchii) bird. FC section 3503.5 covers unlawful take, possession or are candidate species for listing under CESA and receive the destruction of birds of prey or their nests or eggs. FC Section same legal protections as listed species. California Orcutt Grass 3513 covers unlawful take of any migratory nongame bird. (Orcuttia californica) and San Diego Button-Celery (Eryngium Citation: Cal. Fish & Game Code § 3503 and § 3513
aristulatum var. parishii) are listed as endangered and occur in the vernal pools. Any activity that may lead to take could potentially Legend
violate CESA. The City would need an Incidental Take Permit (ITP) California Fully Protected Species Taxonomic Groups or other authorization from CDFW to legally conduct such an • Ray-finned fish (1) • Mullusies (82) action, but otherwise, such take is illegal under state law. FGC Fully Protected species include White-tailed kite (Elanus • Amphibians (7) • Plants (1487) leucurus), a raptor that forages in the vernal pool watershed and • Animals (Group) (23) • Protozodes (3) © Arachnids (27) • Reptiles (59)
To obtain an ITP, the City would need to demonstrate that the other areas of Fairview Park. Fully protected species cannot be • Birds (1065) o Unknown (17)
take is "incidental" to an otherwise lawful activity, that any taken or possessed without special authorization. • Fungi (54) • Insects (306)
impacts from the take will be minimized and fully mitigated, and • Mammals (52) that adequate funding exists to implement minimization and Citation: Cal. Fish & Game Code § 3511 Biodiversity Hotspot Map
26 Opportunities and Constraints
DRAFT
Lake and Streambed Alteration (LA) and Desist Orders, Administrative Civil Liabilities, and Criminal potentially violate Section 9 of the ESA. Violation of this section Prosecutions. may result in civil or criminal penalties.

Notification to CDFW requires notification and an agreement for activities that substantially divert or obstruct the natural flow, or Citation: California Water Code § 13000 et seg. The City would need an Incidental Take Permit (ITP) under Section change or use material from the bed, channel, or bank of any 10(a)(1)(B) of the ESA from USFWS, which requires developing river, stream, or lake, including ephemeral bodies of water such Migratery Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) an approved Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). The HCP details as vernal pools and their flood plains. how you will avoid, minimize, and mitigate the impacts of the The MBTA implements four international conservation treaties activity on listed species and must demonstrate funding for these Vernal pools are unique aquatic habitats that support sensitive that the U.S. entered with Canada in 1916, Mexico in 1936, Japan in measures. species and are protected by CDFW regulations, which mandate 1972, and Russia in 1976. It is intended to ensure the sustainability an LSA Agreement if an activity could alter their flow, bed, banks. of populations of all protected migratory bird species. The law Citation: 16 U.S.C. § 1531-1544 or channel, or adversely affect fish and wildlife resources. has been amended with the signing of each treaty, as well as California State Wetlands and Riparian Area Protection Policy when any of the treaties were amended, such as with Mexico in Citation: Cal. Fish & Game Code § 1602 could be mentioned here, if not addressed in other regs. 1976 and Canada in 1995.
https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/
Porter-Coiogne Water Quality Contral Act The MBTA prohibits the unauthorized take (including killing, cwa401/wrapp.html
capturing, selling, trading, and transport) of protected migratory The Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act is the primary bird species without prior authorization by USFWS California law for regulating water quality, establishing a Calitomis Slate Wetländs and Rroatian Aver Protecdon Pol comprehensive program to protect all state waters and their Citation: Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918(16 U.S.C. 703-712) In California, wetlands and riparian areas are protected by the groundwater, from both point and nonpoint pollution sources. State Water Resources Control Board's (SWRCB) Wetland Riparian Federal Endangered Spedes Act (ESA/ Area Protection Policy. In 2019 the State Water Board adopted Wetland protections include isolated and ephemeral waters, such as vernal pools and their watersheds. It grants the State Water The ESA prohibits the take of any species listed as endangered the State Wetland Definition and Procedures for Discharges of Resources Control Board and nine Regional Water Quality Control or threatened under the Act. Take includes harassing, harming. Dredged or Fill Material to Waters of the State (Procedures), and Boards the authority to set water quality objectives, issue permits, the Procedures became effective May 28, 2020. The Procedures pursuing, hunting, shooting, wounding, killing. trapping. and enforce regulations, including through various orders, civil consist of four major elements: 1) a wetland definition; 2) a capturing, or collecting any endangered species. In this case, liabilities, and court actions. California Orcutt Grass, and San Diego Button-Celery, Riverside framework for determining if a wetland is a water of the state; 3) wetland delineation procedures; and 4) procedures for the Fairy Shrimp (Streptocephalus woottoni), and San Diego Fairy The Water Boards have the authority to issue permits, such submittal, review, and approval of applications for dredge or fill Shrimp (Branchinecta sandiegonensis) are federally-listed as Waste Discharge Requirements (WDRs), and to enforce activities. endangered species, and any activity that may lead to take could compliance through Cleanup and Abatement Orders, Cease
Opportunities and Constraints 27
General Plan DRAFT
The Costa Mesa 2015-2035 General Plan sets forth the vision, found in Fairview Park. Included in the Goals, Objectives and unique vernal pools, and wildlife connectivity to the Santa Ana goals, objectives, and policies for the City through 2035. Over Policies is, "Policy CON-1.A.4: Promote and protect native plant River system make this a significant regional natural resource to the long term, general plan implementation will ensure that species within Fairview Park, and remove and control the spread be recognized as such. development decisions and improvements to public and private of invasive species, including plants, animals, and fungi." infrastructure are consistent with this plan. Included in the General The Historic and Cultural Resources Element, generally Plan and relevant to Fairview Park is the Conservation Element, The Open Space and Recreation Element classifies Fairview Park describes the recorded and potential prehistorical archaeological Recreation and Open Space Element, and the Historical and as a Community Park, encompassing approximately 210 acres. and sites located within City limits and the paleontological Cultural Resources Element. The Open Space and Recreation Element describes the site in resources located within City limits. Included in the Goals, the following excerpt: "This passive open space park consists of Objectives and Policies is, "Policy HCR-1.DA.4: Require, as part The Couservation Element describes Fairview Park and its bluffs, vernal pools, trails, native plant communities, and wildlife. of the environmental review procedure, an evaluation of the importance as an open space, linking to Talbert Regional park Park visitors can also enjoy special events that occur at the park, significance of paleontological, archaeological, and historical and the Santa Ana River system of trails and parks. Additionally, as well as take a train ride on the Goat Hill Junction Model resources and the impact of proposed development on those the Conservation Element identifies the ecological importance of Railroad." Future classification of Fairview Park as an ecological resources." And, "Policy HCR-1.6: Encourage development of riparian habitat restoration through the creation of wetlands within preserve, rather than a community park, should be considered in an interpretive center for paleontological, archaeological, and the north section of Fairview Park and the unique significance of future updates to this Element. As 195 acres of Fairview Park are historical resources at Fairview Park. The center may contain the vernal pools. The document includes an inventory of biological dedicated to natural open space and wildlife habitat, it is among resources found in the park area as well as resources found resources found in Costa Mesa natural areas, many of which are the largest urban parks in Orange County. The habitat diversity, throughout the City." Photo by City of Costa Mesa.

Open Space Master Plan DRAFT
The City's Open Space Master Plan serves as a guide for the development and management of the City's park facilities. The original Open Space Master Plan was adopted by City Council in 1969 as a part of the Long Range Comprehensive Plan. It has been updated multiple times, including 1996 and again in 2003 and is currently in the process of being updated.

The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan was adopted by the City Council in 1994 and 2002. The Plan established long- term goals for the City's open space and recreation needs and established priorities and implementation measures. The goals of this plan have been included as part of the Fairview Park Master Plan.

The Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan calls for the Fairview Park plan to recognize the important adjoining uses, links to existing bike and walking trails, and stresses the need to preserve the important natural and cultural features.

Also proposed by the Open Space Master Plan was the potential for additional active ball fields in the area of Estancia High School.

Alternative design schemes have considered this option. Ball fields have not been included in the Fairview Park Master Plan due to recent acquisition of land for this purpose, and citizen requests for a passive park at Fairview.

Photo by MIG Inc.

Existing Planning Conditions 29
Local Coastal Program Utilities & Easements DRAFT
Local Coastal Program Utilities & Easements
The Coastal Zone and Commissions were created in 1972 in order Public utility easements are limited to the north and south to protect the State's coastal resources. The Zone extends 1,000 boundaries of the park. Domestic and reclaimed water lines lie yards inland from the mean high tide line. The California Coastal along the extreme north property line. These lines are a barrier Act of 1976 modified the boundary eliminating the 1,000 yard to creating a simple ramped connection from the park to Canary boundary, but retaining portions of the Santa Ana River lowlands Drive. A regional gas main crosses in the east-west direction at and most of Canyon Park. Fairview Park is not included in the the southern property line in the area of Parsons School. The gas Coastal Zone. main continues down the bluff into Talbert Nature Preserve and constitutes no obstruction to park planning.

The 1976 Act mandated the preparation and adoption of a Local Coastal Program (LP) by local governments for their areas of A potable water line is in place for service to the park extending jurisdiction within the Coastal Zone. from Canyon Drive to Placentia Avenue. New potable water services are possible from mains located in Placentia Avenue.

The City of Costa Mesa has coordinated its efforts with the County of Orange. The County of Orange produced a coordinated plan Sewer mains exist off the site in Pacific Avenue and Canyon Drive. in 1990 for a linked "stair step of parks" progressing from the A study by the City Engineer determined that these lines are the coast up the Santa Ana River to Fairview Park. This Santa Ana River only potential gravity flow source of sewer service to the park Mouth Open Space Study encompasses salt marsh restoration, site. A preliminary plan indicates the potential to extend a gravity wetlands, woodlands, and grassland for the open space along flow main from Pacific, across the western site, extending across the southern side of the river. The elements of this plan involve Placentia to serve the train station site. This long gravity sewer the City of Newport Beach, the City of Costa Mesa (at Canyon appears to be more cost effective than a forced sewer main to Park and Fairview Park), the County of Orange and the Corps of the Estancia High School area. Electrical service is available along Engineers. Restoration of the County's Talbert Nature preserve Placentia Avenue. was an important link in this park system. Fairview Park is a significant piece of the plan due to unique ecological resources, its size and adjacency to Talbert Nature Preserve and the Santa Ana River. The completion of Fairview Park as anticipated by this master plan is consistent with the intent of the Santa Ana River Mouth Open Space Study.

Photo by City of Costa Mesa.
30 Existing Planning Conditions
Transportation Plans DRAFT
Fairview Park is served by only one arterial street, Placentia Avenue, which bisects the park. A park entrance from Placentia SLATER
Avenue exists to the western section of the park. This intersection serving the western park entry is currently controlled by a traffic

TALBERT
signal. The eastern section of the park (the train parking area is entered by a signal-controlled intersection at the southern tip of the site at the entrance to Estancia High School. Both signal- controlled intersections are to be retained for access to Fairview Park.

GARFIELO
Several local and regional bicycle routes are connected to Fairview Park including local routes to school and connection to the Santa YORKTOWA Ana River Trail. Fairview Park provides Class I off-street bicycle paths within the park and Class Il buffered bicycle lanes are located ADAMS along Placentia Ave. The Costa Mesa Bicycle Master Plan DRAFT, Huntington Beach
prepared in 2017, outlines the vision, strategies, and actions that will be implemented to improve the cycling experience in Costa Mesa. This Master Plan focuses on the completion of the bicycle SANTA
network by identifying existing and absent connectivity and providing recommendations for potential improvements to the system and programs.

Newport
Back Bay
ARTHUR
Legend
Newport Cily of Costa Mesc
15TH Existing Faellties
Proposed focute:
1504"* COAST
= Closs # (Rcute)
Pacific Ocean
Class
Proposed Bicycle Facilities Map
Existing Planning Conditions 31
03 Existing Site Conditions DRAFT
Site History
Chumash
Prehistoric Cultural Setting
For thousands of years, indigenous peoples inhabited coastal Tongva Southern California, establishing a complex network of groups (Gabrielino) and villages. Their settlements were strategically situated near freshwater sources and ecosystems that provided essential resources, such as food and fuel (Anderson 2007). By the time Cahuilla
Spanish explorers arrived, the region was already home to a Shared, Juaneno well-established and thriving indigenous society. This historical Tongva Territory context underscores the importance of considering long-standing human relationships with the natural environment when planning management and conservation of Fairview Park. Project Location Prior to the Spanish Mission Colonization Period, which began in 1769 (Mooney and Zavaleta 2016), the Greater Los Angeles Juaneno Basin, which extends to the San Joaquin Hills east of Fairview Park, exhibited a rich tapestry of diverse ecosystem types. These included coastal dunes and estuaries, fast-flowing and highly Luiseno seasonal rivers, expansive flower fields, and southern California walnut (Juglans californica) and oak (Quercus spp.) woodlands (Ethington et al. 2020, Longcore and Ethington 2023). The varied landscape was shaped by the array of abiotic and biotic conditions characteristic of coastal southern California (Stein et al. 2007). Referring to the pre-colonial setting as the "Indigenous Landscape," Longcore and Ethington (2023) emphasized the Ipai Service Layer Credits. SEces: Esri, USGS, NOAA
role of humans in manipulating the region's natural communities during the long period that predated large-scale introduction of Kev FAIRVIEW PARK non-native plants and animals from Europe and elsewhere. This MASTER PLAN UPDATE historical context serves as a reminder of the region's ecological Project Area Kilonater 40 City of Costa Mesa
diversity and the importance of human-environment interactions - Tribal Boundary Orange County, CA
in shaping the landscape of Fairview Park and its surroundings. Z Shared Juaneno/Tongva 40 1:1,250,000
Territory cogstone
Facing page photo by MIG Inc. Tribal territories map
Existing Site Conditions 33
DRAFT
Spanish Period and Harper arose from this period and united to form Costa Mesa Project Area History (Miller 1970).

Fairview Park was part of the 63,414-acre Rancho Santiago de The earliest known U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic Santa Ana, granted to José Antonio Yorba and his nephew Pablo With the expansion of railroads to the American west coast, map of the area shows no development in 1896 within the area Peralta in 1810 by California Governor José Joaquin de Arrillago. affordable transportation and cheap land opportunities drove a which would become Fairview Park (Santa Ana, 1:62,500, 1896). By Yorba built an adobe residence at what is now First and Sullivan flood of new settlers into California. As a response, various land 1932, multiple unimproved roads are visible within the Project Area Streets in Santa Ana. The site of the native Rancheria of Genga syndicates formed which contracted survey teams to along with several large retaining ponds (Newport Beach, 1:31,680, (Gena in Gabrielino) gave way to Spanish occupation. By 1780, new land tracts. The Fairview Development Company (FDC) was 1932). By 1935, three buildings are visible within the northern half records of Mission San Juan Capistrano indicate use of the site one such entity which filed their plans for the Fairview Tract with of the Project Area (Newport Beach, 1:32,680, 1935). By 1949, area by Mission cattle herds. The Yorba family re-established their the City of Santa Ana in 1887. FDC sales soared resulting in the only one building remains near the center of the Project Area and own herds on the site by 1835.The Eduardo Polloreno adobe was rapid growth of the area near the corner of Adams and Placentia, a long intermittent stream cuts through the north/south on its situated on the northeast corner of the park in the area of Canary restored by the City of Costa Mesa. western boundary (Newport Beach, 1:24,000, 1949). A 1953 USDA Drive. Only the foundations remain of this, the youngest of three aerial photograph of the Project area depicts a single building with adobe buildings in the immediate area, the others being the The land changed hands several times and was used for small ancillary buildings near the middle of the Project Area and Estancia, or Diego Sepulveda Adobe, and the Rice Adobe. The agricultural purposes, escaping development perhaps due to a narrow water channel (NETROnline 1953). By 1963, the building Diego Sepulveda Adobe remains today and is located at Estancia the topography of the eastern portions and the wet conditions in the middle of the Project Area is no longer extant (NETROnline of the western area. In 1926 the first documented archaeological 1963). A large concrete channel (currently extant) traverses along remains were discovered during plowing operations. Important the east and northern boundary of the Project Area. By 1972, what discoveries continued to be found and studied, and by 1935 State is now Placentia Avenue is present, cutting through the eastern City of Costa Mesa History Emergency Relief crews began formal archaeological excavations. section of the Project Area (NETROnline 1972). Between 1987 and Federal Works Progress Administration crews were active in 1936 ca. 2000, a network of unimproved roads is established through From 1810 to 1868, the majority of what would later become the and 1937. In the 1970's the County of Orange and the City of the Project Area (NETROnline 1987 and 2000). Between 1987 and City of Costa Mesa fell within the boundaries of the Spanish land grant Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana. After the Mexican War of Costa Mesa purchased the land of Fairview Park for park and 1992, the facility near 2480 Placentia Avenue at the southeast area Independence, the land fell under Mexican governance and was recreation purposes. of the Project Area is extant (NETROnline 1987 and 1992). retained by Yorba. Through California's Spanish and Mexican A joint use plan was studied in the 1980's, which planned several periods, the land was primarily used for the rearing of cattle. active uses, which were met with strong objections by the residents Following the annexation of California by the United States in of Costa Mesa. The City purchased 210 acres of the 300-acre site 1848, the Rancho heirs began the process of breaking up the in 1985 in order to insure a lower level of development. The land land into smaller portions and property was continuously sold purchased by the City site is now the subject of this Master Plan. and subdivided which made the area ideal for the California land The remaining 90-acre County of Orange site has been restored boom of the 1880s. The three communities of Fairview, Polloreno, as the Talbert Regional Park.
34 Existing Site Conditions
DRAFT
1970 1980
http://www.ocgis.com/ocpw/historicalimagery/
Fairview Park Boundary
Existing Site Conditions 35
Geology & Soils DRAFT
The broad, valley portion of the study area is called the Tustin Topographically, the site is differentiated by a bluff 60 to 70 Plain. The Tustin Plain is bounded by the Santa Ana Mountains feet high creating an upper mesa and a lower flood plain. The to the east, the Puente and Coyote Hills to the north, the Pacific Newport Mesa is comprised of deposits of clays, silty clays, Ocean to the west, and the San Joaquin Hills to the south. Orange silts, sands, and fine to coarse gravels of the Upper Pleistocene County is in the northern extent of the California Geomorphic Lakewood formation. These deposits are of continental to very Province known as the Peninsular Ranges. This geomorphic shallow marine origin. The Lakewood formation is underlain by province is located in the southwestern corner of California and the slightly upturned and truncated Lower Pleistocene San Pedro is bounded by the Transverse Ranges Geomorphic Province to formation. The Lakewood formation is approximately 70 to 100 the north and the Colorado Desert Geomorphic Province to the feet thick in the area of Fairview Park. east. It extends from Mount San Jacinto in the north, through the tip of Baja California, Mexico in the south. The Peninsular Ranges The mesa portion of the park site is underlain by a layer of heavy Geomorphic Province is characterized by elongated northwest- clay, which provides the hardpan responsible for the creation of trending mountain ranges separated by sediment-filled valleys. the vernal pools on the southern third of the mesa. The lower Faults branching off from the San Andreas Fault to the east create portions of the site generally consist of 8 feet of sand and silty the local mountains and hills. The northwestwards motion of the sand fill. Care must be taken in the design of structures or bridges Pacific Plate relative to the North American Plate has created due to the potential for overlaying alternating beds of soft to these ranges and their corresponding valleys (Wagner 2002). medium-stiff silt/clay and loose to dense sand and silty sand.

Ground water has been found at depths of 10- and 11-feet.

Photo by City of Costa Mesa. Photo by City of Costa Mesa. 36 Existing Site Conditions
DRAFT
191
127
158
135
173
164
172
Map Unit Code | Soll Series Name
127 | Bosanko clay, 15 to 30 percent slopes
149 135 | Capistrano sandy loam. 2 to 9 percent slopes
149 | Cropley clay, 2 to 9 percent slopes
158 | Hueneme fine sandy loam, drained
175 164 | Metz loamy sand, moderately fine substratum
172 | Myford sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes
173 | Myford sandy loam, 2 to 9 percent slopes
175| Myford sandy loam, 9 to 15 percent slopes
177 | Myford sandy loam, 9 to 30 percent siopes, eroded 191 | Riverwash
2022 NAIP (60-cm resolution) 1 inch = 532 feet Fairview Park Boundary Soils Map of Fairview Park.

Existing Site Conditions 37
Site Drainage & Hydrology DRAFT
Fairview Park is predominantly vegetated with little impervious Erosion of the bluffs is attributed to the poor condition of the surfaces making it an important natural ecosystem for supporting vegetation, pedestrian and wheeled traffic. Two areas, one at the water filtration, and flood management functions for the City. north and at the south end of the bluffs, are generating small The deep, well-drained, carbon rich soils of the Fairview Park canyons as erosion removes the bluff soil. floodplain terrace can store a great deal of water, and the natural depressions of the vernal pools slow and store rainfall, helping Vernal Pool watersheds occur both on the west and east sides reduce peak flows. Rainfall not absorbed into the soil eventually of Fairview Park. A large portion of the mesa, with a drainage flows into the Santa Ana River and Newport Bay. connecting to the southern border of the site is included in the vernal pool watershed. This area contains large vernal Fairview Park is located on a bluff and is not impacted by sea pools features that support several rare and endangered plant level rise or storm surges. The flat bluff and natural depressions and animal species. The vernal pool and a description of the characteristic of much of Costa Mesa's developed watershed tend depressional features can be found in Appendix B. to facilitate ponding and large storm events can overwhelm the exiting storm drain system and potentially cause pluvial flooding. At the southern site border near Canyon Drive, rainwater collects The Canyon storm drain, which begins at the southern edge of on park property and extends into the adjoining residential Fairview Park near Pacific Avenue is identified in the 2024 Existing property during heavy rain. This border flooding condition is Conditions Assessment Report (ECAR) Storm Drain System Master south of the sensitive vernal pool watershed area. The City has Plan Update as an area prone to chronic ponding. The Canyon reviewed potentially adding a new storm drain along the southern storm drain discharges near Canyon Drive in Canyon Park. boundary of the park to divert flows west down the bluff into Talbert Regional Park. This potential solution needs further study.

Fairview Park lies within the West watershed subarea studied in the ECAR. At the northwestern and northeastern portions of the park, Fairview Channel conducts flows from the northern portion of the West watershed to the Greenville Banning Channel, which drains to the Santa Ana River. The major portion of rainfall runoff from the site is collected in the Placentia Drain, a ditch created during past agricultural uses of the site. This drain cuts diagonally across the sandy soils of the northwest lowlands and runs south along the lower face of the bluffs to enter Talbert Regional Park.

The drain is filled in places and currently has no clear flow line through its full length.

Photo by City of Costa Mesa.
38 Existing Site Conditions
Cultural, Tribal Cultural, Paleontological & Archaeological Rese DRAST Caltural and Tribal Cultural Resources
HUTURE
•
Based on the South Central Coastal Information Center records DOWNEY, PIVER search conducted for this master plan update, especially the documented history of CA-ORA-000058, the positive Sacred /PLAIN Lands File (SLF) search, and informal conversations with local CREEK SANTA tribes, Fairview Park has an extremely high sensitivity for buried PEMING O LANDING Native American origin cultural resources. The available data also SANTA indicate a low to moderate, patchy sensitivity for European-origin cultural resources. BOLSA HUNTINGTON RUBEICA

BEACH MESA TESTAN
The Project Area is within the traditional use area of both Gabrielino Tongva and Juaneño Acjachemen groups. A review ALAMITOS of the site records for resources within Fairview Park indicates MOUNTAINS that the Park area should be considered a single unified Native BOLSA CHICA BAY TRARUCO CREEK American cultural landscape rather than as a place with four NEWPOR JOAQUIN separate archaeological sites. Additional description of the Say NEWPORT BEAG! MARSH ШКИРКО
Gabrielino Tongva and Juaneño Acjachemen in the region of HILLS JOAQUIN CREEK Fairview Park can be found in Appendix D: Cultural, Tribal Cultural. and Paleontological Resources Assessment for the Fairview Park NEWPORT BAY Master Plan. TREEt
The Project Area was not home to any known major villages. The PORTUGA closest known named Gabrielino villages are Lukupa and Kengaa which are 2.3 miles northwest and 3.7 miles southeast of the Pacific Ocean SAN TOEE E
Project Area, respectively. However, Acjachemen villages, and

TWE EVENCA
smaller Gabrielino villages and seasonal camps may have been CANA PONTY 8 TORO
present closer to the Project Area.

SOUCHE CRETE®
The bluffs of Fairview Park in the prehistoric setting looked out over river bottomlands cut by meandering streams of salt water at 4mi MATEO high tide and fresh water when the tide was low. The environment Existing Site Conditions 39
DRAFT
supported thousands of birds and an abundance of shellfish; and hunting is to be discouraged. The change of planned use of vegetation of existing social trail areas, in coordination with plant supported a village settlement whose remains indicate a very the site from possible active park to passive activities led the biologists, with no till options is also recommended high level of social complexity. There were two periods of site Consultants back to the author of the Keith Companies report, Dr. occupancy by different cultural groups: at least 1500 BC, - AD 500 Henry C. Koerper, Ph.D., to update the protection / preservation Mitigation Measures include the following:
and AD 500 - the late 19th century. recommendations. His report is presented in Appendix B. • The City staff shall ensure that qualified cultural resources and The Fairview Park site contains two listed archaeological sites, A total of four cultural resources have been previously recorded Native American monitors are present for all ground disturbing arguably portions of the same general site, which have been within the park. These consist of two prehistoric archaeological activities, and all vegetation clearance that is beyond normal occupies sites (one NRHP listed and one unevaluated), one multicomponent maintenance that occurs within Fairview Park. investigated
northwestern bluff top of the site to the west of Placentia Avenue. archaeological site, and one historical archaeological site. project is located in an extremely sensitive tribal cultural area. • The City shall ensure that an Archaeological Treatment Plan CA-ORA-506 lies to the east of ORA-58 and is east of Placentia Surveys have been completed to assess damage to the resources includingapresence/absencetestingprogramandacontingent Avenue in the general area of the model railroad extending caused by runoff, unauthorized "social" walking trails, vegetation data recovery program is prepared by a qualified archaeologist north to the Canary Drive area. Of the two sites CA-ORA-58, the clearing, etc. Disturbances identified were in the form of social in consultation with Tribes prior to ground disturbing activities bluff-top site, has been the subject of greater attention through that extends below the historic ploughzone.
archaeological study and preservation methods. trails that de-vegetated the ground surface and resulted in erosion due to water movement and pedestrian and bicycle-based travel. • Native American-origin cultural materials encountered during The City of Costa Mesa engaged The Keith Companies in 1993 Disturbances averaged approximately two feet wide and five to ground disturbing activities, including vegetation clearing to investigate the park site and to recommend protection and eight inches in depth. activities, shall be stored on site at Fairview Park pending preservation methods. Their Report on Investigations to Delineate Site Boundaries and Further Characterize Cultural Remains at Most cultural resources, including burials, have been found within reburial on site at a location not to be disclosed to the public.

CA-ORA-58, Costa Mesa, California is a very comprehensive the areas currently recorded as P-30-000058, P-30-000506. As such, Disposition of tribal cultural resources will be in accordance with document which relates the history of archaeological study in the these areas are considered most sensitive within a highly sensitive applicable law and in consultation with the consulting tribes. site, the significant artifacts which have been recovered and the landscape. Efforts to stabilize the sediments in these areas are boundaries if the site. The report recommended capping the CA- most important. Stabilization methods include re-vegetation and ORA 58 site with a layer of fill soil prior to the development of an keeping visitors from further eroding the site. Methods include Paleontological Resources active use park. barriers signing, physical barriers restricting social trails, and constructing raised walkways. Orange County has a complicated paleoenvironmental history This Master Plan calls for the CA-ORA 58 site to be restored to its which began at the age of dinosaurs about 250 million years ago. original natural plant communities and to be preserved as high- As the entire site has extremely high sensitivity for buried Native The past 250 million years has seen the region transition from quality habitat in a combination of native grasslands and coastal American origin cultural resources, additional signage and physical marine in the Triassic through the Cretaceous, to coastal lowlands sage scrub. The site would be accessible by trails, but general barriers to prevent the use of existing, and creation of new, social during the Paleocene to Oligocene, to shallow marine during access to the archaeological deposit and the potential for artifact trails is recommended throughout the park. Additionally, re- the early Miocene, to deep marine during the early to early-late 40 Existing Site Conditions
DRAFT
Fossils from the vicinity of the Praject from unnamed Quatemary deposits.

Depth betaw Depth below
sriginal Common Name Taxon original Age Locality Location Reference Common Name Taxon Age Locality Location Reference
Along MacArthur Bid. Hong Hospital lower
*Megalonys sp unknown: Pleidocane LACM 1XG Nof intersection with Bell 2020 ground sloth LACM 6370 campus near Superior McLeod 2019 Jamborce Road, Irvine horse. unknowa Pleistocene
Ave and the Pacific
ground sloth †Puruerviorion sp. Coast Hi. Costa Mesa
Californin taper †Zapirus califormicus Marian = grouns sistn (Paramvodon hurlam East of MacArtar late
horse †Equus sp. late LACM
Pleistocene, LACM 1068 Boulevard and north of McLeod 2018. mammoth 1 Mommuthus sp unknown Pleistocene, 69121 Bolsa Chica State Part: Jefferson 1991b vesterday's camel †Camelops sp. unknown what is now Bison Rancholabrean Rancholabrean ancient bison [Bison sp
deer Odlocoulens sp. Arcase, Irvine
bison tBison sp. Herian's groune stoun I Parmeyiodon hariani rabbit Survilagus sp ground sloth
South side of University sabre-toothed cat I Smilodon fatalis mantmal Mammalia unknown. Quaternary LACM 1069 Drive cast of MacArthur Meleod 2018 camivore? Camivora? Boulevard, Irvine wester horse? 1 Equis occidentalts?
Pleistocene LACM 1089 General Mc Arthur Bivd Jefferson 19916 Camelops hesternus groand sloth Edentota unknonn yosir00y came.

Brides, Newport Beech
Til taxa of mammals, sharks, ancient bison 1 Bison antiques rays, fish, amphibians, bison 1Bison sp.
15 localiues sodiments on the castside Mcl.cod 2013 Columbian mammoth †Mammathus columbs reptiles. or birds, including multiple unknown Pitistocene with LACM Scolt and Gust fossils belonging to 17 extinct of Newport Bay Leporidae? late OCPC. no North of Jamboree and rabbit? 12-20 feel nunber as 2007, Gust
Pleistocene. Michelson, Irvine
Botta's pocket gopher Thomomys borde Rancholabrean yet 2010 mammous *Маннійня sp. Adems Ave cast of the McLeod 2011. gopher Geomvidne -15 Feet Pleistocene LACM 1339 Santa Ana River, Costa 2017,2018 Camelidac squirrel Sciuridae
camel Mesa
near 19th Street and black rulture 1 Corysyas accidentalis proboscidesn Proboscidea unknown Pleistoccas LACM 3267 Analcim Avc., Costa McLeod 2019 bird Ares Mess rattlesnake Crotalus sp.

Adjacent to the SE side pine snake Pisophis melanolencus even-tood un zulate Artiodacty la LACM 3978 of the intersection of MeLeod 2018 unknown Quaternary University Drive and snakes Serpenies turkey Meleugris sp. MacArthur Boulevard alligator lizard Elegaria sp.

Holocenc ar Occanview High School, oak Quercus sp.
deer Gadocoliens sp. LACM 4018| Jefferson 1991b it = extinct taxon Pleistocenc Scal Beach
mammoch (Mammuthus go. 6-8 feet late LACM. Warner Ave, close lo MeLeod 2017 bison tBison sp. 14-20 fest Pleistocene 65113 Bolsa Chica St Warner Existing Site Conditions 41
DRAFT
Miocene, back to shallow marine in the latest Miocene through the Pliocene, and finally to increasingly arid terrestrial deposits from the Pleistocene to the Holocene. In addition, younger sediments have been washed into the ocean by the action of streams.

The geology of the Fairview Park consists of middle to late Pleistocene old paralic deposits emplaced between 774,000 [774 ka] to 126 ka and late Pleistocene to Holocene young alluvial fan deposits less than 126 ka. No fossils were observed during the survey conducted for this project. Unnamed Pleistocene deposits have produced fossils of mammoth and camel less than half a mile to the north of the Project Area. While these fossils were approximately 15 feet below the surface, other nearby localities have been recovered from as little as six feet deep. Other extinct vertebrates recovered from unnamed Pleistocene deposits near to the Project Area include ground sloths, sabre-toothed cat, California tapir, horses, camels, bison, mammoths, proboscidean, and black vulture. Other megafauna recovered locally include deer and sea turtle, as well as a variety of small vertebrates that are found in southern California today.

Fossils recovered from the "Palos Verdes Sand" appear to have come from the old paralic deposits (Qopf) which are also mapped within the study area. This is a highly productive unit which has produced numerous marine and nonmarine fossils, many of which are still found in the California area today. Extinct vertebrates recovered from these sediments include ground sloths, dire wolf, tapirs, horse, llama, camels, bison, Pacific mastodon, Del Rey gannet, and flightless sea duck. Other megafauna recovered include mule deer, pronghorn, Steller sea lion, California sea lion, sea otter, elephant seal, whale, and sea turtles. The marine invertebrate record from these deposits is extensive with over 200 species known from the Newport Bay area.

Photos by Cogstone. Potential shell midden. Photo by City of Costa Mesa. 42 Existing Site Conditions
Biological Resources DRAFT
The field investigations conducted, and resource reports park and conducted targeted investigations focused on mapping • Identification of ecologically appropriate habitat restoration developed for the Master Plan Update, build upon a tremendous existing habitat; evaluating habitat quality for targeted species; and enhancement opportunities: Section 4 incorporates the body of scientific field work that has been conducted at the and specifying what measures to include to protect the species, vegetation assessment to identify targeted opportunities project site for decades. In October of 1995 the City of Costa Mesa minimize permit requirements, and improve overall habitat for habitat restoration and enhancement that will support engaged Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist, to survey the quality. Two technical reports were developed including: the conservation of biological resources and protect cultural existing biological conditions, along with biologist Tony Bomkamp resources within the park. to survey the vernal pools section and to make recommendations • 2023 Hamilton Biological Resources Technical Report Fairview regarding the planning of the park. In June of 2007 LSA Associates Park (Appendix B) • Best practices for restoration projects: Attachment A offers performed an update to the 1995 survey of existing biological guidelines and recommendations to promote cost-efficient. conditions. These reports and recommendations guided the • 2023 Vegetation Map and Habitat Restoration Opportunities high-quality outcomes for restoration projects in Fairview Park. development of the 2008 Fairview Park Master Plan Update. Since for Fairview Park (Appendix C) the 2008 update, additional field investigations and summary • Long-term invasive plant management plan: Attachment These technical reports support the Fairview Park Master Plan reports have been developed including the following: B provides recommendations for managing invasive plant Update by offering an updated assessment of the park's vegetation species, which are crucial to maintaining the ecological health • 2015 LSA BUOW Management Plan communities, identifying appropriate habitat restoration and of the park and protecting its sensitive habitats.
enhancement opportunities, and providing best practices for • 2017, Glenn Lukos Associates Wet Season Survey for Listed restoration projects. The report also presents invasive plant control The findings and recommendations made in these biological Branchiopods guidelines to be integrated into the Long-Term Management Plan resources reports guide and inform the following chapters for the Fairview Park Master Plan Update to ensure the ongoing in this document including Chapter 04. Opportunities and • 2019 Endemic Environmental Services Branchiopods Wet preservation of the park's resources. The report synthesizes Constraints, Chapter 05: Design Objectives, Chapter 06: Master Season Survey biological resource findings made since the last Fairview Park Plan Recommendations, and Chapter 07: Implementation. By Master Plan Update in November 2008, incorporating data from incorporating the information presented, the Fairview Park • 2019 Endemic Environmental Services OCME Train Track recent biological surveys conducted in winter, spring, and summer Master Plan Update can effectively address the critical need for a Nesting Bird Survey of 2023 by MIG, Land IQ, and Hamilton Biological. Long-Term Management Plan that safeguards cultural resources • 2019 Tania Asef Wet Season Focused Surveys for Listed Fairy Key components of the report found in Appendix B include: and conserves biological resources, including the essential vernal pool habitat. These reports serves as a valuable tool for informed Shrimp Species
• Description of 2023 vegetation communities in Fairview decision-making and planning to ensure the future preservation • 2020-2022 Sea and Sage Audubon Society Fairview Park Point Park: Section 3 provides an overview of the various plant and enhancement of Fairview Park's unique ecological features Count Avian Survey communities present in the park, including the unique vernal and cultural significance. pool habitat, and highlights any changes observed since the Rather than repeat studies documenting existing conditions, previous Master Plan Update.
this master plan update leverages current knowledge about the Existing Site Conditions 43
DRAFT
Map Code | 2023 Vegetation Map Unit Common Name
1720 | Black Widow - Red Willow Ripanan Woodland 4210 | Wild Outs and Annual Brome Grassiands and Forest
4250; Upeand Black Mustard and Tocalote Fields
1740 | Fremont Cottonwood - Red Witow
4255, Upland Shonpod Mustard and Tocalote Fiekt-
1810, Mulelat Thickets
GR 4270 | Poison Hemlock or Fennel Patches
1820 | Auroyo Wilow Thickets
4310 | Fiddleneck - Priaceta Fielos
1830 | Southern Calfornia Wainut Groves (W)
6135 | Calfomia Butush - Cantal Marsh
1840 | Sandbar Wilow Thickets
6500, Clustered Tarplant Fieks
1845 | Sandba: Willow - Blue Elderberry Thicker
(Habtat Creation Project) 6550 | Clustered Tarplect Fields (Restoraton 1910 | Giant Reed (GR: 6600 | Pale Spke Rush Vernal Pool Butsoms 2310 | Goy ole Brush Scrup 0650 | Pale Spike Rush Verna: Pool Bottoms (Restoration: Area)
2315 | Coyote Brush Scrub (Disturbed)
8120 | Coast Pricky Pear Scrut
3110 | Callornia Sagebrush Scrub
9100 | Introduced Trees (Y)
3120 | Caltoria Sagebrush - Calforna: Bucketear
Scrub 9150 | Imgated Lawn and Omamental Landscaping
Trees
3125 | Calfonu Sagebrush - Calfornia Bucketea:
9300 | Urban Disturbed
3145 | Calto Sunfower Bush - Aspy Buckatreat 9310 | Urban-Sidew ak/Badge/Tras Scrub (Disturbed)
9315 | Natural Sori or Decomposed Grande (DG) Tra
3150 | Califomia Buchaheat Scrub
¡ 9320! Fuel Modfication Zone
3195 | Purple Sage Scrub detroduced Vegetation
Communt Restoration Area 9330 | Anthropogenic Areas of Little or No 3330 / Coast Goldenbush Scrub 9800 | Water Body
3335 | Coast Goldenbush Scrub (Disturbea) 9810 | Rip-rap/Concrete Pond Liner Fairview Park Boundary
GR
FOR Improper Fill Material (Extent in 2023)
Vernal Pool High Estimated High Flood Mark
Vernal Pool Watershed (Remaining, Undeveloped Extent)
2023 Vegetation Communities
44 Existing Site Conditions
DRAFT
Botanical Resources waterwort (Elatine californica), shortseed waterwort (Elatine The riparian woodlands and scrub established around the ponds brachysperma), pygmyweed (Crassula aquatica), Virginia cress created in the northern lowlands include several species of willow The botanical surveys in 2023 recorded 197 species of vascular (Planodes virginicum), American pillwort (Pilularia americana), and (Salix lasiolepis, S. laevigata and 5. gooddingii), yerba mansa plants in the park system, including several special-status species. water starwort (Callitriche sp.). Rarer indicators of this sensitive (Anemopsis californica), California wild rose (Rosa californica), most of them associated with vernal pools. habitat include San Diego button-celery (Eryngium aristulatum California bulrush (Schoenoplectus californica), California var. parishii), California Orcutt grass (Orcuttia californica), mud mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana), western sycamore (Platanus Plant Communities and Associations nama (Nama stenocarpa), little mousetail (Myosurus minimus ssp racemosa), marsh fleabane (Pluchea odorata), trailing blackberry apus), and prostrate vernal pool navarretia (Navarretia prostrata). (Rubus ursinus), and mule fat (Baccharis salicifolia).

Apart from 13 acres of turf and developed areas, vegetation at Fairview Park supports the only Orange County population of Fairview Park occurs within 195 acres of natural communities and several of these rare species. Coastal sage scrub vegetation has been restored in the dry vegetation associations, each hosting a suite of characteristic canyon north and west of the main park entrance off Placentia plant species. Coastal bluff scrub, most of which shows signs of disturbance Avenue. Dominant species in this community include California and invasion by non-native weeds, occurs on the west-facing California buckwheat Grasslands, which occupy the flatter upland portions of the park slope above Talbert Regional Park. Characteristic native plants in (Eriogonum fasciculatum), black sage (Salvia mellifera), purple on either side of Placentia Avenue, consist mainly of non-native this association include California boxthorn (Lycium californicum), sage (Salvia leucophylla), white sage (Salvia apiana), lemonade grass and forb species. A handful of native species are represented, bladderpod (Cleomella arborea), coast prickly-pear (Opuntia berry (Rhus integrifolia), coyote brush, coastal brittlebush (Encelia including clustered tarweed (Deinandra fasciculata), great valley littoralis), and wishbone bush (Mirabilis laevis). Chilicothe (Marah californica), and laurel sumac (Malosma laurina). gumweed (Grindelia camporum), coast goldenbush (Isocoma macrocarpa) formed an extensive blanket over large areas of bluff menziesii), fiddleneck (Amsinckia menziesii ssp. intermedia). scrub on this bluff in response to wet conditions in 2023. A few The 2023 surveys also recorded some expanses of non-native, small-flowered microseris (Microsers douglasii var. platycarpha). southern California black walnuts (Juglans californica) occur on invasive weed species that, in some cases, effectively exclude and purple needlegrass (Nassella pulchra). the bluff in the southeastern corner of the park. most native plants. These include black mustard (Brassica nigra), devil's thorn (Emex spinosus), sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Scattered across the southern grasslands are vernal pools, the Alluvial scrub formerly occurred widely across the sandy northern artichoke thistle (Cynara cardunculus ssp. flavescens), and crown species composition and ratio of which varies considerably from lowlands of Fairview Park, prior to conversion of most of this area daisy (Glebionis coronaria). pond to pond and month to month during the time of year when to created ponds and associated riparian scrub and woodland the soil is moist. All of the roughly 18 vernal pool indicator species Remnants of the alluvial scrub remain in the northwestern corner Wildlife previously recorded at Fairview Park were recorded during the of the park, represented by sandbar willow (Salix exigua ssp 2023 field visits. The most widespread of these indicator species hindsiana), California evening-primrose (Oenothera californica), Two federally listed invertebrates, San Diego fairy shrimp include low woolly-marbles (Psilocarphus brevissimus), common California croton (Croton californicus), Lewis's evening-primrose (Branchinecta sandiegonensis) and Riverside fairy shrimp spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris), bigbract verbena (Verbena (Camissoniopsis lewisii), and coyote brush. (Streptocephalus woottoni), have been documented in some of bracteata), water clover (Marsilea vestita), golden dock (Rumex the park's vernal pools. Their more common relative, the versatile fueginus), flowering quillwort (Trigochlin scilloides), California fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lindahli), occurs more widely in pools Existing Site Conditions 45
DRAFT
Map Code | Habitat Restoration Targets (Common Veg Name) 1810 | Mulefat Thickets
1830 | Southem California Walnut Groves (W)
3120 | California Sagebrush - California Buckwheat Scrub 3140 | California Sunflower Bush - Ashy Buckwheat Scrub 3190 | California Sagebrush - Coast Prickly Pear Scrub
3210 | Black Sage Scrub
4310 | Fiddleneck - Phacelia Fields
6500 | Clustered Tarplant Fieids
Fairview Park Boundary
Improper Fill Material (Extent in 2023)
2023 Vegetation Map and Habitat Restoration Opportunities for Fairview Park 46 Existing Site Conditions
DRAFT
and small depressions. The two listed species were last observed Birds are the most conspicuous forms of wildlife at Fairview Park, species. Stands of non-native mustard that have developed on at the park in 2017 (Glen Lukos Associates 2017); they were not where approximately 220 species have been recorded. Most have the mesa provide nesting habitat for Red-winged Blackbirds and detected during surveys conducted two years later (Asef 2019). been reported to eBird; citations for additional taxa recorded Song Sparrows, Although it was not possible to collect and identify fairy shrimp during biological studies of the park are provided in the Appendix during our field visits in 2023, fairy shrimp were observed in several B species list. With the establishment of permanent ponds in the Coastal bluff scrub and coastal sage scrub in the park support small ponds, and we consider it likely that all three species persist in the northern lowlands, various waterfowl have become regular there. numbers of resident California Gnatcatchers, along with more park. Year-round residents include the Canada Goose, Mallard, Ruddy widespread species, such as Song Sparrows, California Towhees, Duck, Pied-billed Grebe, various herons and egrets, Common Spotted Towhees, Common Yellowthroats, and Orange-crowned Twenty species of butterfly were seen in Fairview Park during Gallinule, and American Coot. Small numbers of White-faced 2023, including the funereal duskywing (Erynnis funeralis), western Ibis, a special-status species, have nested in the created wetlands pygmy-blue (Brephidium exilis), Reakirt's blue (Echinargus isola), in recent years. Riparian scrub and woodland provide habitat for Turf and trees in the developed parts of the park provide habitat Lorquin's admiral (Limenitis lorquini), American lady (Vanessa many species, including such special-status species as the Least for a number of species tolerant of humans, including Western virginiensis), and western giant swallowtail (Papilio rumiko). Other Bell's Vireo, Yellow-breasted Chat, and Yellow Warbler. Bluebirds, House Finches, Lesser and American Goldfinches, and invertebrates found in vernal pools at Fairview include unknown wintering Yellow-rumped Warblers. species of ostracods (Ostracoda spp.) and at least one species of During wet winters and springs, an array of waterfowl and copepod (Copepoda spp.). shorebirds rely on the park's vernal pools for foraging and as Sensitive Biological Resources resting areas. Ducks that use the pools include Blue-winged Five species of amphibian have been reported in Fairview Park: Teal, Cinnamon Teal, Gadwalls, American Wigeon, and Mallards. Federal, state, and local regulations exist to protect and conserve Western toad (Anaxyrus boreas), California tree frog (Pseudacris Shorebirds observed using the pools include Black-necked Stilts, sensitive biological resources. For purposes of this report, a cadaverina), Baja California tree frog (Pseudacris hypochondriaca), American Avocets, Long-billed Curlews, Long-billed Dowitchers, biologically sensitive resource refers to any of the following:
black-bellied slender salamander (Batrachoseps nigriventris), and Greater Yellowlegs, and Lesser Yellowlegs. Large flocks of swallows southern California slender salamander (Batrachoseps major). forage over the pools, including Barn, Tree, Cliff, Northern Rough- • A natural community recognized as having special-status Three species of snake and five species of lizard have been winged, and Violet-green. by federal, state, and/or local governments, and requiring a reported in Fairview Park: California kingsnake (Lampropeltis permit or agreement prior to its disturbance. californiae), gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer), southern pacific Grasslands on either side of Placentia Avenue provide foraging rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus), southern alligator lizard (Elgaria habitat for several species of raptor, including Burrowing Owls, A plant or animal species identified by federal or sta multicarinata), western fence lizard (Sceloperus occidentalis), Northern Harriers, White-tailed Kites, and Red-tailed Hawks. overnments as endangered, threatened, rare protecte common side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana), western skink Insectivores found in the park include Vermilion Flycatchers, Ash- sensitive, vulnerable, or a Species of Special Concern. (Plestiodon skiltonianus), and western whiptail (Aspidoscelis throated Flycatchers, Western Kingbirds, Cassin's Kingbirds, Black Phoebes, and Say's Phoebes. Wintering species include various: • Aplant or animal species that is a candidate, or that is proposed tigris).
sparrows, such as White-crowned and Savannah, along with for federal or state listing American Pipits, Western Meadowlarks, and other open-country Existing Site Conditions 47

DRAFT
Sensitive Natural Communities Through critical review of this extensive list, Hamilton Biological Resource Protection Recommendations excluded numerous species that have no potential to occur at The State of California (CDFW 2023) identifies as "Sensitive" the Fairview Park, except possibly very rarely. For example, the Fork- Fairview Park supports a remarkable array of special-status plant following natural communities that occur in Fairview Park: tailed Storm-Petrel is a special-status bird of deep ocean waters and wildlife species, several of which are listed as threatened or that could conceivably be carried onshore by gale-force winds, but endangered by state and/or federal governments. The park's • Vernal Pools/Native Grasslands because Fairview Park provides no effective conservation value combination of riparian habitats, coastal scrub, grasslands, and • Coastal Bluff Scrub for this seabird it has been excluded from further consideration. vernal pools is unique in Orange County, and rare anywhere in Furthermore, some wildlife taxa are given special status only Southern California. In the past three decades, for reasons not • Coastal Sage Scrub
during certain parts of their annual cycle—usually on the nesting fully understood but likely related to habitat degradation and • Riparian Scrub and Woodland fragmentation, atleast two special-status species, the Cactus Wren grounds. Such species are considered "sensitive" at Fairview Park only if they have potential to occur in the designated manner. and San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, have become extirpated Special-Status Species For example, the Sharp-shinned Hawk is considered a Species from the park and surrounding areas. Chaparral sand-verbena, of Special Concern on its nesting grounds, but this raptor occurs a special-status plant species may also have died out, possibly The special-status plants and wildlife that occur in Fairview Park, in Orange County only during migration and winter and so is not due to brush clearance activities. Species that persist only in or that have realistic potential to occur there, are identified and included in Table B in Appendix B. small numbers and/or in very limited patches of suitable habitat briefly discussed are listed in Appendix B. To help determine include southern tarplant, San Diego button-celery, vernal barley, which species warrant consideration in the report, the project For special-status plant species, Table B in Appendix B includes little mousetail, prostrate vernal pool navarretia, California Orcutt team conducted a nine-quadrangle query of the California 10 taxa known to occur in Fairview Park; one taxon that occurred grass, southwestem pond turtle, burrowing owl, and California Natural Diversity Database CNDDB (2023), which yielded recent in recent years but that may now be extirpated; four taxa with and historical records of 177 special-status species: moderate potential to occur; and five taxa with low potential to occur. Table B also includes one plant taxon that has been The most important threats to sensitive biological resources in • 52 plant taxa erroneously reported to occur in Orange County. Fairview Park come from human actions that destroy, degrade, • 2 crustacean taxa and fragment the park's natural communities. The placement For special-status wildlife species, Table B includes 24 taxa known of numerous piles of fill dirt across the western mesa during the • 11 insect taxa
to occur in Fairview Park; two taxa apparently extirpated from the late 1980s, with the intent to cap archaeological resources prior • 4 mollusk taxa park; five taxa with high potential to occur, five taxa with moderate to establishing sports fields that were planned but never built. • 5 fish taxa potential to occur; and 15 taxa with low potential to occur. Table created an ecological limbo for natural resources on the mesa • 2 amphibian taxa B also clarifies that Fairview Park lies outside of the described Approximately two acres of this fill were later removed to restore range of one mammal taxon found within several miles of the a large vernal pool that had been buried, but this left more than • 10 reptile taxa
park, farther north along the coast. 20 acres of disturbed, weedy habitat, crisscrossed by an extensive • 72 bird taxa lattice of informal trails.
• 19 mammal taxa
Facing page photo by Robert A. Hamilton
Existing Site Conditions 49
DRAFT
Not only do the dense weeds in this area persist and spread to other parts of the park, but they render the northern half of the mesa effectively incapable of being maintained and managed through routine methods. In recent years, cyclists, e-bike riders, and remote-controlled vehicle enthusiasts have expanded a barren area on the east side of the mesa while establishing a new riding track farther west, in the middle of the fill-pile area. To prevent and reverse the loss of natural lands to such unauthorized active uses, the recommendations in Chapters 06 and 07 of this document provide guidance and a feasible approach to restoring and managing the most disturbed parts of the park to protect and enhance these unique resources.

Additionally, Hamilton Biological has documented evidence of intentional destruction of listed plant species in some of the vernal pools at Fairview Park. The Master Plan recommendations and implementation guidelines incorporate specific protections against such malicious actions including protective fencing and educational opportunities for the public to learn about the federal Endangered Species Act and consequences of its violation.

Photo by Robert A. Hamilton
50 Existing Site Conditions
Site Features DRAFT
Fairview Park offers a blend of natural open space, recreational amenities, and unique attractions that support passive recreation and community use. The park contains an extensive network of trails for walking and bicycling, which link to other recreational areas and provide access to diverse landscapes. Supporting infrastructure includes pedestrian bridges, benches, picnic tables, a shaded picnic pavilion, restrooms, interpretive and monument signage, trash receptacles, and dog waste bag stations, ensuring accessibility and user comfort.

Approximately 13 acres of lawn area provide more traditional park amenities within the predominantly natural setting. Two unique facilities are operated in partnership with non-profit organizations including a narrow-gauge miniature railroad, which offers an educational and recreational attraction for visitors, and a model glider flying field, which serves as a dedicated space for hobbyists.

Photos by MIG Inc.

Existing Site Conditions 51
FT

FAIRVIEW PARK FAIRVIEW PARK
Legend
• Bench (22)
• Picnic Table (Individual) (40)
Shaded Picnic Tables (Group) (1)
) Restroom (1)
• Sign: Directional (1)
Legend • Sign: Interpretive (18)
• Sign: Directional (1) © Sign: Monument (9)
© Receptacle: Covered (14)
* Sign: Interpretive (18)
© Receptacle: Uncovered (16)
1,000 | Sign: Monument (9) 1,000
= Feet ® Dog Bags (4)
Fairview Park Site Signage Maps Fairview Park Site Furniture Maps 52 Existing Site Conditions

FAIRVIEW PARK DRAFT
Wetland & Ripariap
Ared
Model Trait
Area
Talbert Nature
Preserve
Bluff
Estancia High Schoc
1,000
i Feet
Fairview Park Site Existing Conditions
Existing Site Conditions 53
04 Opportunities & Constraints DRAFT
Considerations DRAFT
Alignment with goals and objectives flooding, mitigates water pollution, and captures carbon from Preserving large habitat areas without human disturbance the atmosphere. Urban nature can improve human health by provides the opportunity to support the life cycle and habitat Fairview Park is a beloved cultural and natural resources asset reducing air pollution and exposure to extreme heat, promoting needs of substantial populations of plant and animal species. for the community of Costa Mesa and the region. The park is active lifestyles, and improving psychological well-being. While a unique and culturally and ecologically valuable site for the traditional parks also can provide similar benefits, there is a wide • Connections - Features in the landscape that facilitate the region. Fairview Park has two Nationally Registered Cultural range of positive health responses to cues from environments that movement of plants and animals and landscape with high Resource Historic Sites and serves as the gateway to the Santa are more natural and more biodiverse, such as lowered heart rates, connectivity support higher numbers of species. Opportunities Ana River Trail and a connection to rich natural coastal resources increased concentration, lower cortisol levels and improved mood to increase connectivity exists by filling in breaks where the for residents and visitors. The Master Plan Update presents Protecting and enhancing biodiversity at Fairview Park is critical continuity of vegetation is created either by human use, the opportunity to play an important part in telling the greater for preserving natural spaces where people and other species erosion or invasive species. Additionally, removing barriers, or story of this 208-acre parkland and conservation area. Restoring can thrive. In addition to the human health benefits, exposure to increasing connections across existing barriers allow organisms and preserving the park as an environmental resource for study. wildlife can inspire awe and foster a sense connection to place to move freely to access resources and a variety of habitats interpretation, and education as well as passive recreation is a for residents, which can motivate stewardship and investment in during different life stages. By considering the vernal pool challenging and meaningful goal in alignment with the project conservation of place. Evidence of this effect can be seen in the watershed as interconnected, rather than discrete features, goals and objectives outlined in chapter 01 including: active community-based organizations supporting and invested we can enhance hydrological connectivity by removing in this special place. barriers and reconnecting the entire watershed to the vernal • Protect, preserve, and enhance the unique natural and cultural pool features. This will enable movement of aquatic species resources of Fairview Park among different habitat types across seasons and life stages Balancing human activities with ecological process Opportunities exist to prioritize hydrological connectivity and • Restore, and enhance the park as an environmental resource, connections between different habitats. and provide interpretive opportunities to educate visitors Understanding and working within the natural, cultural, and about the park's unique ecology, cultural history, and resources. ecological processes of the site will be a touchstone throughout • Management - Improving the way humans manipulate the planning process. The Master Plan Update provides the the landscape can help support more species and strategic • Manage the park as a passive recreational opportunity. opportunity to incorporate ecologically-friendly design and stewardship of vegetation can improve its habitat value. to strategically plan for the protection and enhancement of Avoiding vegetation removal during bird and mammal • Engage stakeholders, users, and the community at large in biological and cultural resources on the site. Achieving this breeding seasons can help reduce the impact of these developing a blueprint to manage the park, which accounts objective requires planning and guidance informed by science activities on wildlife. Retaining vegetative debris and leaf for passive use recreation, environmental restoration and including the following ecological principles: litter, seeds and fruit can also increase food availability and preservation, and funding considerations for years to come. improve soil health. Soil compaction and degradation can • Patch Size - One of the most predictable patterns in ecology is the relationship between the size of a habitat patch and impede native vegetation communities from establishing Maximizing benefits Opportunities for soil quality improvements through mulching, the number of species found within it. At 208 acres, Fairview soil decompaction, and in some cases removal of degraded Protecting biodiversity is central to regional conservation and Park is a large and ecologically important habitat, especially soil, can benefit native plants and the animal communities that for the area-sensitive species that are restricted to this type human well-being. In cities like Costa Mesa, nature regulates depend on them. of regional biodiversity hub for rare and threatened species.

Facing page photo by Robert A. Hamilton.

Opportunities and Constraints 55
Constraints DRAFT
Analysis of the overall natural setting and planning/jurisdictional Steep Slopes Existing Park Entrance context reveals many opportunities and constraints upon the planning of the park and the proposed The topography of the wester bluffs constrains development of The existing entrance represents significant prior investment considered are constraints to one form of improvement and park activities other than habitat restoration and enjoyment of the and is located in a suitable location for traffic safety on Placentia opportunities for another and therefore are listed as both views afforded by their elevated position. These bluffs must be Avenue. Improvement of existing signage and landscaping along protected from erosion associated with pedestrians and wheeled with removal of traffic spike strips will improve visitor experience opportunities and constraints.
traffic. The northeastern park area also contains steep slopes in of the park. the vicinity of the Fairview Channel.

Placentia Avenue
Existing Fill Soils
The major vehicular arterial of Placentia Avenue divides the Bluffs and Erosion site into two distinct sections. This division has been somewhat The western portion of the site contains fill soils placed as a cap The bluffs contain several sites where erosion will require treatment for the archaeological site CA-ORA 58. These soils were not relieved by the signalization of the existing park entrance intersection and construction of a pedestrian bridge connecting to preserve the bluff and trails. With the absence of any restraint graded smoothly when placed, and were further disturbed in over Placentia Avenue. However, the road continues to physically to traffic, vegetation has become compromised and erosion is the investigations to determine the boundaries of the site. The separate the park for users and serves as a barrier for species that developing deep canyons that threaten to continue to carve into soils are known to contain asphalt, concrete, mortar and other can not effectively cross the street, such as small ground-dwelling the Mesa. construction debris in significant amounts. Prior to the discovery of the vernal pools as a sensitive natural resource, fill soils were placed species.
in portions of the largest pool. Portions of this pool have been Archaeological Resources
restored by removing the fill soil, and, as funds become available, The Fairview Channel this restoration of natural grade at the pools is to be continued The important resources of the archaeological sites require protection and preservation. Development of active uses or Due to the fill soils being contaminated and improperly placed, The drainage structure and fences of the Fairview Channel divide an acceptable protective cap for the archaeological site has not the eastern portion of the site into north and south sections. The construction of fencing, signage and trail enhancements in the entire park site will require compliance with measures outlined been achieved and is no longer required for protection as the old opening of a pedestrian bridge to pedestrian and bike traffic plans for development of sports fields and active recreation have creates a link between these two sections of the park. On the in the Cultural, Tribal Cultural, and Paleontological Resources been removed from the Master Plan Update recommendations. western side of Placentia Avenue the Channel imposes less of Assessment for the Fairview Park Master Plan including monitoring a divisive element, but does create a 50-foot-wide strip of land and study by a qualified cultural resources and Native American along the rear of homes facing Swan Drive, which is unsuited to Drainage and Flooding public uses due to the proximity to those homes. The southern border of the site at Canyon Drive to Pacific Avenue experiences seasonal flooding, which extends into the rear yards of adjoining residential properties. Care must be taken in correcting this probler not to disturb the vernal pools or create bluff erosion.
56 Opportunities and Constraints
DRAFT
Vernal Pools access to all areas, and the parking area and lawn areas provide Sewer Connection for picnicking and gathering within the park.

The discovery of the vernal pool complex more than 30 years The Costa Mesa Sanitary District installed sewer lines in Fairview ago has significantly affected subsequent planning in the park. Park on the east and west sides of Placentia Avenue in 2000.

These resources fall under the protection and control of the US Existing Narrow-Gauge Railroad Army Corps of Engineers and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Since 1988, the Orange County Model Railroad Engineers, Inc., a Measure AA/Costa Mesa Municipal Code Not only are these important biological resources, which should club open to the public, has been granted permission to construct be preserved and restored, but the regulatory agency restrictions and operate a rail system in Fairview Park, on the east side of In 2016, citizens adopted Measure AA, which requires that new on management and protection of these resources will guide the Placentia Avenue. Over three miles of track have been constructed permanent constructed improvements and significant changes recommendations of the Master Plan Update. by the club. Free train rides are offered to the public on the third require approval by a majority vote of the Costa Mesa electorate weekend of each month. Attendance at these weekends exceeds The Code also includes several exceptions to the voter approval Existing Park Facilities 50,000 persons per year. The presence of the tracks and the requirement including changes for restoration purposes, intermittent train traffic is consistent with the passive use goals preservation purposes, public safety, and other exceptions as The park contains an existing thirteen-acre area of lawn and trees of the park, and is compatible with other uses, such as walking, defined in the code. with parking. The parking is centralized within the park; allowing picnicking, and habitat enhancement.

Photos by MIG Inc.

Opportunities and Constraints 57
Opportunities DRAFT
Remnant Native Plant Species researched and documented will allow a rich story to be told which connect to bridges over the Greenville-Banning Channel concerning the people who occupied this site three thousand and the Santa Ana River. By connecting to the Talbert trails system All areas of the site have been changed from their natural conditions years ago. The preservation and protection of the archaeological access is also provided to the extensive hiking and interpretive by human activity. Pockets of remnant native plant communities sites is compatible with the passive uses proposed by the plan. opportunities within the Nature Preserve. The Canary Drive exist on the site and the opportunity exists to preserve and restore pedestrian and bike trail connection is separated by a twelve to these plant communities. These plant communities are described fifteen foot grade change at the park boundary. The opportunity in Appendix B. Though all areas of the site are disturbed and Trail Linkage exists for trail connection here if the obstacles of grade and water contain many non-native species, remnant habitats and analysis The Costa Mesa General Plan includes a Master Plan of Bikeways mains can be overcome. of existing soils and historical ecology indicate the potential for that calls for connections to the Santa Ana River Trail system restoration of healthy plant communities and wildlife habitat. through Fairview Park. The Bikeway Plan also calls for a Class 3 The bridge over the Fairview Channel, which exists at the eastern tip of the site, allows for pedestrian and bike traffic. The connection bikeway connection in the vicinity of Canary Drive. In the north- of trails to this bridge provides an important link to the isolated Archaeological Resources south direction the park trail system can offer trails allowing northeast corner of the site from the railroad area.
pedestrian and bike traffic to avoid the heavily traveled Placentia The existence of documented archaeological sites within the park Avenue. In the east west direction the park can provide access to presents strong opportunities for education and interpretation. the extensive pedestrian and bike trails along the Santa Ana River.

The fact that CA-ORA 58, the bluff-top site has been well These trails are reached through Talbert Nature Preserve trails Photo by MIG Inc.

DRAFT
Link With Adjoining Habitat Restoration Existing Park Facilities and Parking Talbert Nature Preserve is a 90-acre restoration of native habitat The existing 13 acres of lawn and trees with parking for 106 cars completed by the County of Orange. The opportunity exists to represents an open space asset for the Costa Mesa community. soften the hard-edge boundary between these two parks and These facilities are able to accommodate picnicking and passive to expand upon the work which has been established in Talbert recreational activities as well as orientation and a trailhead to Nature Preserve. locations throughout the park. A centralized interpretive area for the entire park can be located within the developed park area.

View Opportunities
Vernal Pools
The bluffs offer extensive views to the north and west over the Santa Ana River. These views can be enjoyed from trails along the The vernal pool watershed is a rare and sensitive biological area bluff. The northeast corner of the park contains a high plateau, and is a constraint to park management and recreational activities. which can be reached by new trails from Placentia Avenue or from When viewed in the context of a passive park they can become the train area via the bridge over Fairview Channel. an opportunity in that their restoration and protection as rare natural features offer unusual possibilities for observation and interpretation by the public. While the pools require protection Existing Narrow-Gauge Railroad
from human disturbance, consolidated trails along their perimeter The existing railroad operation is a popular teature of the park by provide access and interpretive opportunities and enjoyment of providing free train rides to the general public and accommodating these unique and interesting ecosystems. private gatherings. The low traffic on the rails and minimal impact upon the landscape, allow for the introduction of other low- Grades allow Placentia Avenue Crossing impact activities such as walking, bicycle riding and a small picnic area. These added activities can share parking facilities with the North of the existing western entrance Placentia Avenue begins train area and enhance the train experience as well as function to descend in elevation. Approximately 300 feet north of the alone in this area. intersection adjoining grades in the park are 16 feet higher than the roadway. A pedestrian bridge was constructed in 2006 to connect the east and west portions of the park.

Photo by Robert A. Hamilton
Habitat Restoration Existing Restoration Projects
2152052
Wetlands & Riparian
Fairview Park supports a remarkable array of special-status plant Habitat-Phase 1 and wildlife species, several of which are listed as threatened or (2009 to 2014)] endangered by state and/or federal governments. The park's Headlands Project (OCFCD Conservation Easement) combination of riparian habitats, coastal scrub, grasslands, and ,Mitigation Area Wetlands & Riparian Habitat vernal pools is unique in Orange County, and rare anywhere in (2006 to 2011) Phase 2 (OCTA) (OCFCD Conservation Easement) (2012 to Present)
Southern California. The most significant threats to sensitive biological resources in Fairview Park come from human actions that destroy, degrade, and fragment the park's natural communities. Cut Slope Staircase CSS CSS Restoration
However, this Master Plan Update provides the tremendous Slope Restoration Purple Sage Scrub Creation (2006)
opportunity to reverse those threats and conserve, restore, and (2009) (circa 1990s) CSS
enhance the astounding diversity and abundance that remains Révegetation through strategic habitat restoration management and planning. Community-Led (circa 2010s) Restoration efforts have been occurring on this site for decades CSS Restoration and have made substantial positive impact on the people and (On-going) plant and animal species that call Costa Mesa home.

Vernal Pool 1
Restoration
(1996 to 2009)
Vernal Pool
Restoration Project
(2022 to Present)
Vernal Pool 4
Restoration
(2002 to 2009)
Habitat Restoration Opportunities Facing page photo by Robert A. Hamilton. 60 Opportunities and Constraints
DRAFT
05 Design Objectives DRAFT
DRAFT
The overall master planning goals and objectives are drawn from the writings, minutes and statements of the Fairview Park Steering Committee, the physical analysis of the site and current planning conditions, and from citizen comment during the Master Planning process. The overwhelming consensus is to continue a park for passive use by individuals and small groups and to enhance the natural environment of the park for those uses and as a habitat preserve.

Fairview Park is unusual in that even though the major portion of the site is undeveloped, it has been open to the public for many years. Thus, the public image of the park as being expansive, open, and natural is well defined. The work of the Fairview Park Steering Committee, biological and archaeological consultants and the master planning consulting team has developed scientific information about the site, documenting its valuable resources and its potential for habitat restoration. The conclusions of the research are in accord with the desires of the public for an open, natural site. The Master Plan Update chronicles the scientific basis for a naturally restored park, but in addition, a critical function of the Master Plan Update is to define ways of providing for public uses that are compatible with and complement the restored park concept. The following summarizes goals and objectives developed during the Master Plan process:

RESTORATION PUBLIC USE BIOLOGICAL
Design Objectives 63
Public Use DRAFT

1. Allow the park visitor to interact with a natural landscape 3. Provide for access, public facilities, and developed park 4. Provide additional opportunities and services for low- and to experience a level of solitude, which is rare in the areas in a manner, which is compatible with the natural impact park use. urban environment. habitat restoration and archaeological preservation to occur in the major portion of the site. • Provide an enhanced setting for the model railroad area • Provide opportunities for walking or bicycling throughout and model gliders. the site to experience a variety of landscapes and habitat • Utilize the size and configuration of the site to separate • Provide a landscaped setting on the eastern area of the areas. developed recreational amenities and uses from the more park that will enhance ecologically appropriate habitat and natural portions of the site: support conservation of biological species throughout the • Provide for visual continuity and continued openness so that the totality of the park site can be readily experienced • Provide features for more intensive public use (such as park and enhance the visitor experience. lawn, picnic, and nature play areas) within the existing • Design park features to be subtle and low impact, so as not developed park site or existing more developed uses (such • Enhance existing picnic areas and provide additional picnic to distract from the natural setting. facilities for small groups and on the eastern portion of the as the model railroad site). site within the footprint of exiting developed landscape • Provide for the continuation of the organized uses that areas.

2. Inspire and educate the public regarding the historical, have historically occurred on the site, including model archaeological, and biological significance of the site. • Provide nature play areas. railroading, model airplane, and model glider flying in • Develop interpretive program including signing, accordance with resource agency recommendations for 5. Provide for public safety. docents, programs for schools, and the public. the protection and preservation of biological and cultural and Tribal cultural resources. • Provide trail access for public safety and emergency • Encourage the development of a continuing non-profit vehicles. • Provide for walking, running, and bicycling along defined support group:
trails. • Stabilize the bluffs and provide safer access across them. • Provide interpretive signing in key areas of the park. • Utilize and improve existing trails as much as possible. • Provide buffer areas for fire-wise planting adjacent to • Provide a central interpretive area as an introduction to residential areas. • Consolidate and define walking trails to minimize
major park features.
fragmentation of natural habitat communities and restrict • Provide increased opportunities for walking and bicycling public access and the establishment of user defined trails away from vehicular roadways. within the vernal pool watershed • Maintain the open quality of the park that allows for visibility over the park area for observation of any public safety problems.
• Design park improvements in conformance with publicsafety codes and Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. 64 Design Objectives
Cultural, Tribal Cultural & Restoration DRAFT
01 Remove existing artificial fill with minimal damage to the resources underneath.

Protect archaeological sites from unauthorized collecting and damage. Enhance and re-establish habitat for native 02 plants and wildlife.

Base restoration plans on scientific recommendations
03 related to the existing site characteristics and the best available information on pre-existing natural habitat
areas.
04 Conform to the federal and state restrictions concerning existing ecological resources.

Coordinate restoration plans with regional and adjacent 05 restoration and preservation efforts, in order to provide continuity of habitat and address endangered habitat
concerns.
06 Protect restoration areas from damage and intrusion.

Photo by Robert A. Hamilton.

Design Objectives 65
06 The Master Plan DRAFT
DRAFT
The Master Plan presents a park for a multitude of passive recreational uses, and continued enhancement of the site's unique natural features. The large size of the park allows for multiple passive recreational uses. The landscape includes lawn areas for recreational play activities and picnicking, and large areas of restored native plant communities. The Master Plan provides designated areas for organized user groups (i.e. model gliders and trains) to allow the continuation of uses in accordance with current Resource Agency recommendations.

A trail system will provide access by foot, bicycle, wheelchair, park maintenance vehicle, and emergency and security vehicles.

Interpretive opportunities are to be subtly provided as part of Boll Model
the trail system. Defined trails offer the possibility for a roaming walk among undeveloped nature for those seeking solitude or Glider and to explore the varied terrain of the mesa, bluffs, and low alluvial Train Are plain. Natural areas will contain extensive areas of restored local native plant communities.

The Master Plan Update is intended to provide a framework for Mesa the habitat restoration and enhancement and improved trails Tellert Reim and signage system. Completion of the recommendations of Presene the Master Plan Update will undoubtedly be by phases. Some change in anticipated uses may be expected, however, the overall policy direction for passive, natural habitat preservation and restoration is to guide all detail development decisions.

The Master Plan Update will guide the creation of a rich and varied park which will serve the residents of Costa Mesa for generations to come.
tole Nigh Soonel
The following pages provides detail to the Master Plan Update by geographic section of the park.

The Master Plan 67
Park Entrance & Parking DRAFT
The main vehicular entrance to Fairview Park is located on the west side of Placentia Avenue near the north end of the lawn area, and can be accessed from northbound or southbound Placentia Avenue. This existing entrance to Fairview Park is currently controlled by a traffic signal. Parking for 106 cars is currently provided in the existing 13-acre park area west of Placentia Avenue. These spaces are to be retained. Existing parking for 26 cars opposite Waldorf School is to be retained.

The eastern vehicular entrance connects to informal parking for approximately 110 cars. This parking area will serve the train area, picnic areas, and trail system in the eastern park. This parking area is controlled by the traffic signal in the southeastern corner of the park at the Estancia High School intersection.

Buses unload in the paved parking areas near the interpretive area or near the train station. Buses park in car spaces or stage in nearby circulation areas. In order to make efficient use of parking and paving areas, no "bus only" parking is provided.

Park entrances and parking areas will be enhanced through the use of native vegetation, pollinator patches, and signage to reflect the unique identity of Fairview Park. Removing invasive ornamental species, such as Pride-of-Madeira, and replacing these areas with native species representative of the vegetation communities found within the park and applying a strong aesthetic composition will serve to enhance the street appeal of the park and entice exploration.

Photos by MIG Inc.
68 The Master Plan
West of Placentia Avenue DRAFT
Existing Park Improvements Central Interpretive Area pit area, a storage shed, an information kiosk, and installation of a low post-and-cable barrier.

The thirteen acres of existing lawn, trees, and parking are to The proposed central interpretive area is located west of the remain. As funding or volunteers are available, additional trees existing park lawn, near the existing restroom and picnic shelter.

Vernal Pools
should be planted to shade the parking lot to enhance human This area is to serve as a starting point for learning about the comfort. The addition of trees is not encouraged outside the Native American Tribes cultural history, European settlement The vernal pools are discussed in depth in Appendix B. The pools parking areas west of Placentia. Trees are only to be replaced history, ecology, archaeology and biological resources of the site. and basins are to be retained, restored, and protected. Protection if removed at a one-to-one ratio. Open and unobstructed lawn The center is not to contain buildings or other structures. The story involves prohibiting pedestrian and bicycle traffic from entering is to be maintained for play activities and gathering spaces. of the site can be told through creative and low-profile signage the seasonal boundary of the pool or basin with fencing and The western edge of the existing lawn is to be bordered with elements. The site will allow for self-guided discovery suitable to signage, while making only a limited visual intrusion. The plan native vegetation and delineated trailheads to create a sense of children and adults. Additional signage should be located at key calls for a fence to be located at the trail edge to keep visitors on exploration and orientation to the park trails system. locations around the site to explain the life of the vernal pools, established trails. the various plant communities and habitats, the shell midden, the Group Picnic Site and Restroom Facilities prehistoric river setting, and the Spanish Mission use of the site Archaeological Site CA-ORA 58
This location serves the existing developed park area and users of Glider Launching Sites The very rich deposit of evidence of early human use of the site the trail system, small group gathering spaces and the play lawn. adds an exciting and interesting element to the Fairview Park Proposed nature play features, enhanced site amenities, and a The existing fly field activity, currently located within the vernal story. The core area covers 14 acres of the northwestern bluff central interpretive area will enhance and expand the educational pool watershed should be relocated due to detrimental impacts edge and yet many pass by without any knowledge of culture and conservation goals of the Master Plan Update. Consolidating to sensitive biological resources associated with the activity and which once flourished here. A program of signage and display at program spaces for passive recreational and educational activities required maintenance of the fly field. the interpretive center is to make this story part of the Fairview in this area will focus energy and connection, while limiting the Park experience. footprint of these activities. The Master Plan Update recommends moving the current site to another portion of the park to comply with resource agency Appendix D discusses the treatment of this important site A large picnic shelter provides shade and rain protection. Restroom recommendations. To avoid regular mowing and prevent in detail. Due to the mixing of construction debris and other facilities are also provided in this area of the park located near the colonization by ground-dwelling species, a compacted and contaminants in the fill cap, the existing fill deposits are to be central interpretive area on the route to and from parking. This stabilized decomposed granite paving area should be provided removed. Restoration of the native vegetation to the site will not location serves the existing developed park area, the trail system for the relocated launch site. Proposed improvements for the require the replacement of the protective cap fill soils. Access and visitors to the central interpretive area. relocation site include an approximately 300-by-50-foot runway to the general area of the site is to be discouraged in order to (partially surfaced with decomposed granite), pilot stations and protect cultural and Tribal cultural resources.

The Master Plan 69
DRAFT
Trail Delineation
To protect sensitive cultural and biological resources within the park, large areas of the park will require enhanced protection from bike and pedestrian traffic. Where trails pass through habitat restoration areas the route is to be defined by post and rope, or post and rail fencing. This delineation system should be held back from the trail edge approximately two feet in order to recede into the planting as much as possible. All pet animals brought to the park are to remain on leashes at all times.

Access to Talbert Nature Preserve
Trail access is provided to Talbert Nature Preserve at two points along the western boundary of the site. At the north a pedestrian trail passes through the Sandbar Willow habitat to join the Talbert trail near the Greenville-Banning Channel. A constructed staircase located at northwestern portion of the Mesa connects Fairview Park to Talbert Nature Preserve across the existing bluff.

Bluff Erosion and Access
Improper use of the bluff face for recreational riding of wheeled vehicles and climbing has created numerous areas of erosion and defoliation. The short-term enjoyment which some derive from this destructive activity does not outweigh the need to restore and protect the remnants of sensitive coastal bluff scrub and the landform itself. Existing fencing along the bluff trail should be repaired and educational signage enhanced to further preserve and protect this unique natural feature.

Photos by MIG Inc.
70 The Master Plan
DRAFT
Section 07 discusses structural management measures, which habitat for the endangered California gnatcatcher. As a sensitive (CSS) and Flower Fields Restoration Project, which the City of may be employed to control bluff erosion. The use of a "geoweb" habitat area, and with respect to the erosion conditions on the Costa Mesa, in partnership with Orange County Transportation or small check structure system will provide a measure of control bluffs, this is a sensitive area and is to be protected from erosion Authority (OCTA), will restore 15.35 acres of critical habitat on without visual intrusion or heavy grading. The goal is to stabilize and further degradation. the northern mesa. This initiative will fulfill mitigation obligations, the bluffs at the current condition and allow for a vegetation cover improve conditions for native wildlife, and reinforce the City's and root systems to return. Mesa Restoration commitment to the Master Plan. The project includes 11.91 acres of habitat restoration, 1.27 acres of habitat enhancement, and Coastal Bluff Scrub Restoration on the Bluffs and Central The southern portion of the Mesa from the bluffs to the existing 2.17 acres of revegetation and weed management buffers to developed park retains many species of the native grassland. This protect and improve ecological integrity. Restoration will focus on Canyon
area is to be restored, as is the northern part of the mesa after the native plant communities such as Black Sage Scrub (6.78 acres).

The slopes of the west facing bluffs are to be restored with fill soil removal. The overall appearance of the restored area will Fiddleneck-Phacelia Fields (7.3 acres), California Sagebrush- Coastal Bluff Scrub and the north facing bluffs are to be restored retain the open flower-field-like feel of a broad open wild area. A California Buckwheat Scrub (0.1 acre), and Purple Sage Scrub as Black Sage Scrub. These plant communities reflect the natural portion of the Mesa Restoration includes the Coastal Sage Scrub (1.17 acres), while ensuring protection of biological and cultural vegetation for this soil, topography and exposure and is valuable resources during implementation.

NO
BIKE
RID.

Photos by MIG Inc.

The Master Plan 71
DRAFT
Although part of the site lies within the historic vernal pool USACE OC TA Wetlands & Riparian Wetlands & Riparian Habitat Project
watershed, decades of farming, grading, and improper fill Habilat Prosect (2012 to Present)

14.44 acres (excludes trals)
placement have disrupted the hardpan soils, preventing seasonal 20.06 acre

11.14 acres
ponding and vernal pool formation. Restoration of the watershed through fill removal is identified in this master plan as a key long- term goal. Surveys conducted in 2017 (Glenn Lukos Associates) and 2023 (Hamilton Biological) confirmed no ponding, rare plants, or fairy shrimp within the project footprint, though these species persist in nearby natural-grade ponding areas where openings in the fill allow for water to collect.

Execution of this project will contribute significantly to the conservation and restoration of critical habitats within Fairview Park. It is also a significant step toward park stewardship benetiting local wildlife, protecting Tribal cultural and biological resources Communty-led CSS Restoration
and providing visitors a restored place to connect with nature. (On-going) SOCIES i
Example of Native Common Fiddleneck on the Northern
Mesa in Late Winter 2023.

Improper Fill
Material
Placement
0 50 100
2022 NAP (60-c/18301104)
From the total 11.91 acres of Habitat Restoration in Areas *y Fairview Park Coastal Sage Scrub tand 2. a net of 9.5 acres will provide the outatanding & Flower Fields Habitat Restoration & reatoration required for the OCTA Wetlands & Ripenan Enhancement Project (Total 15.35 ac.) Habeat Project to beneft the OCTA EMP M2 Program Habitat Restoration Areas Reveastation and Weed Manassmeat Butter Atnes Map Code / Vegetation Community Common Name Map Code | BuferAres (Vegetation Community Common Name) 11 Black Sage Scrub (6.17 acres: 3 | Nasve Revegetason Butler (Fiddleneck - Pracelia Fields) (0,09 acres)
/ 2! Fiddeneck - Pracela Feids (5,74 acres) 4 | Natve Revegetaton Butter (Black Sage Scruby Habitat Enhancement Arras (0.61 acres)
Map Code | Vegetation Cormanty Comice Name 5) Weed Management Butter and Seed Enhancement (Fiddleseck - Pacela Fields) (1.47
16: Callornia Sagebrush - Calfornia Bocialear acres)
Scrub (0.1 acres)
Example of Nonnative Shortpod Mustard, Black 7| Purple Sage Scrub (1 17 acres) Fairiew Park Boundary Mustard, and Tocalote on the Northern Mesa in Spring • Temporary Fence 16,400 pet) LAND IO 2023.
72 The Master Plan
East of Placentia Avenue DRAFT
Canary Drive Access and Facilities waiting passengers and small group gatherings. An additional would require environmental work in conformance with the City rail line planned to be north of the existing northern extension of Costa Mesa, County of Orange Public Facilities and Resources, The area of the park, which lies east of Placentia Avenue, is further of the railroad will complete the track layout on the east side of Historical Programs, and CECA. This plan calls for no active divided by the Fairview Channel, a concrete-lined storm drain, Placentia Avenue. The train tracks are not to extend their footprint development in this site. Any ground disturbing activities require which isolates the northern area of 9.8 acres. A trail connection to archaeological monitoring. into existing, or proposed habitat restoration areas. Development the end of Canary Drive provides for local community access to and implementation of an interpretive program is encouraged for Fairview Park. Facilities in this area must be kept very limited in the train operations offering passengers the opportunity to learn scope in order not to attract vehicular traffic for which there will about the early human occupation of the site, the historic ecology be no suitable parking. Benches are to be provided which allow and the native plant communities and wildlife of Fairview Park. for enjoyment of the expansive views available from this site. No play equipment, restrooms or group picnic facilities are planned Bridge over Placentia Avenue
for this area. The trail system will connect three points: the point where Placentia Avenue crosses the Fairview Channel, the end By connecting the east and west portions of the park with of Canary Drive, and the bridge over the Fairview Channel. The a pedestrian bridge, an iconic view and safe passage for northern boundary is to be connected to a water source providing pedestrians and bicyclists is created; overcoming some of the irrigation within 100 feet into the park and following defensible park fragmentation created by Placentia Avenue. space guidelines established by the Orange County Fire Authority and The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Trails for Cyclists and Pedestrians (Cal Fire)
Trails east of Placentia and south of the Fairview Channel link five points: Placentia Avenue at the point of crossing the Channel, Narrow-Gauge Railroad Operations
the bridge over the Fairview Channel, the main pedestrian South of the Fairview Channel and east of Placentia is the site entrance and street level crossing to the western area of the park, of the existing narrow-gauge model railroad operations. Over the pedestrian bridge, and the Placentia Avenue, Estancia High three miles of narrow-gauge track, bridges, station paving and School entrance at the southern tip of the site. Multi-purpose and a work area (steaming bay) are in place. The railroad is operated pedestrian trails are indicated on the Trails Plan. by the Orange County Model Engineers, Inc., a club consisting of enthusiasts who own the trains and have constructed all of ga who on the Cry of Cost Mesa. The ratad Archaeological site CA-ORA 506. the facilities at no cost to the City of Costa Mesa. The railroad Approximately, 5/8 of the northern portion of the eastern site is is to be retained with its track system in its current location. The station area of the model railroad has been expanded to include identified as a registered archaeological site. This site has been permanent toilet facilities and a gift shop. Space is available the subject of less detailed study than CA-ORA 58, which lies for minimal expansion of the station, which provides shade for west of Placentia Avenue. Any active development of the site The Master Plan 73
The Northwestern Lowlands DRAFT
The Fairview Channel and Park Land to the North The retention pond receives water that circulates through this wetland system, with riprap channels connecting the ponds.

The Fairview Channel has been the subject of studies to remove Vegetation such as bulrush, cattails, pondweed, and algae the existing concrete lining and create a more natural drainage frequently obstructs flow between ponds, reducing conveyance (Project Report Fairview Channel Facility No. D04 from Greenville below design levels. To address this, the City annually removes Banning Channel to Upstream Terminus, County of Orange EMA, emergent vegetation under a CDFW permit to prevent stagnant August 1991). This project was not carried out after the raising of water and mosquito breeding, as required by the Orange County the bank of the channel, eliminating the threat of flooding to the Mosquito and Vector Control District. north. The removal of the channel would be an expense, which is not necessary for the success of Fairview Park. Additionally, a drain at the base of the bluff carries surface water from the southwestern detention pond, shaded by willow and The northern park boundary lies approximately 50 feet from the blue elderberry. Further south, sediment accumulation forces protective fence of the Fairview Channel. This strip of land 50 feet water below the surface, creating subsurface flow. by 1600 feet has no appropriate public use other than a visual barrier for the residences. An existing heavily used dirt path on The northern boundary where Talbert Nature Preserve meets the south side of the channel is included in the plan as a 3 feet Fairview Park contains Sandbar Willow and Sandbar Willow-Blue wide pedestrian trail. Elderberry Thicket plant communities. At the western boundary at the base of the bluff and along the naturalized drainage path and floodplain terrace is California Bulrush - Cattail Marsh and Sandbar Willow adjoining Talbert Nature Preserve
Poison Hemlock or Fennel Patches.

The permanent ponds in the northern lowlands of Fairview Park provide important habitat for wildlife associated with open water and emergent vegetation, supporting species such as the Mexican Amberwing damselfly, Western Toad, Baja California Tree Frog, Mallard, Ruddy Duck, Pied-billed Grebe, Common Gallinule, American Coot, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, White-faced Ibis, Belted Kingfisher, Clark's Marsh Wren, and Great-tailed Grackle.

Photo by Land IQ
74 The Master Plan
Passive Uses & Circulation Trails DRAFT
Passive uses of the park include walking, running, walking of leashed dogs, flying glider planes, model railroading, flying kites, picnics, and other small group functions. Organized team sports requiring formal facilities or sports operated as a concession are not included. The natural areas of the park are reserved for running, walking, limited bicycle trails, and interpretive uses. Trails WETLAND &

RIPARIAN
in the natural areas are planned to offer access to each habitat AREA
type, in quantity and variety for frequent park visiting, but limited in order to provide large blocks of habitat undivided by trails or the interruption of human use.

The Trails Plan is a park-wide trail system intended to achieve the following:
• Provide clearly defined trails and establish a designated

FAIRVIEW PARK
hierarchy of trails for the park.

MODEL CITY OF COSTA MESA
GLIDER Trails Plan
• Developed design standards for the trail system, including

MESA AND TRAIN
widths, materials, and designated modes of travel by trail type. AREA LEGEND
• Removal of unauthorized user-defined trails that have formed a Multi-Purpose Trail through the vernal pool watersheds. LAWN AREA
a Maintenance/Vehicular Access

PRESERVE
• Establish functional and pedestrian pathways allowing for Primary Pedestrian Trail VERNAL
pedestrian access in both wet and dry seasons for approved POOLS Secondary Pedestrian Trail trails. BLUFF
Existing ADA* Access Path
VERNAL - Existing Sidewalk:

The diagram on the right illustrates the Trails Plan and the hierarchy POOLS of trails which are multi-purpose trails, designated maintenance and vehicular access routes, primary and secondary pedestrian trails. Multi-purpose trails are to accommodate both bicycle and ELEMENTARY VERNAL
SCHOOL
pedestrian traffic. The maintenance and vehicular access routes POOLS occur on both multi-purpose trails and primary and secondary ADA: Anences For Discities Act pedestrian trails. These routes are only to be used by vehicles for .. Ф emergency access and approved maintenance activities. Primary The Master Plan 75
DRAFT
pedestrian trails accommodate the highest use pedestrian routes and are designed to accommodate people walking side-by-side while secondary pedestrian routes are more meandering, less frequently used and designed for a single pedestrian. Primary pedestrian trails are surfaced with compacted soil, or decomposed granite. An existing boardwalk, located near the largest vernal pool, provides pedestrian access to this area while protecting biological resources. A proposed boardwalk along a portion of the existing trail running diagonally from the north terminus of Canyon Drive southwest to Pacific Avenue, allowing for pedestrian access in both wet and dry seasons is recommended. This will facilitate public access to the bluff and the Mesa trail loop. This pathway is periodically closed during the rainy season due to ponding water and shall be planned and designed in a manner that protects the integrity of the vernal pools and the vernal pool watersheds.

The bluff top trail is a primary pedestrian trail and does not accommodate bicycle traffic. The multi-purpose trails focus on connecting bicycle circulation through the park to adjacent destinations leaving pedestrian trails for exploration and meandering. Bicycle traffic should be limited to asphalt or concrete surfaces only to protect damage and degradation of site.

One overlook with one or two benches is recommended to be provided along the bluff trail. See also the Design Guidelines in Chapter 07 Implementation. No additional paved trails are proposed.

The hours of operation of the park are to be from dawn to dusk. No artificial lighting is to be provided in the restoration areas.

Photo by MIG Inc.
76 The Master Plan
Interpretive Program DRAFT
The Interpretive program for Fairview Park offers a unique and stewardship. Partnerships with organizations invested Interpretive content should convey the natural river setting opportunity to highlight the park's historical, ecological, and in environmental conservation can be strengthened through prior to flood control projects and its influence on prehistoric cultural and Tribal cultural significance in the region. The Master involvement with the interpretive program. The design of and historic uses, including prehistoric village sites and areas Plan Update recommends enhancing visitor understanding interpretive features should be subtle and integrated into the listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The history through updated interpretive signage and materials conveying the landscape, following the guidance in Section 07, with signage of Spanish exploration and Mission and Rancho-era land use, park's exceptional conservation value, its role in protecting local that is simple, low to the ground, and informative. The central the location of the Diego Sepulveda Adobe, the diverse native and global biodiversity, and its deep cultural history. Signage and interpretive area can provide a broad overview while encouraging plant communities, resident wildlife species, and the history of interpretive elements should also recognize the site's significance visitors to explore trails for deeper learning. Programs prioritizing archaeological research on the site should also be included to Tribal nations and native ecology. self-directed discovery, and docent-led group tours are These measures will collectively enrich the educational, cultural, recommended. Given the size and diversity of the site, visitors and ecological value of Fairview Park, providing visitors with a Interpretive programming should emphasize the connection should expect that multiple visits will be required to fully engage meaningful, multi-layered experience of the park's history and between ecological health, conservation of natural open with all interpretive elements. biodiversity. space, and human well-being, fostering community awareness ittands at Fairview Park

HABITAT RESTORATION

IN PROGRESS KEEP OUT
Photos by MIG Inc.

The Master Plan 77
Habitat Restoration & Enhancement DRAFT
The City of Costa Mesa is a steward of Fairview Park. Restoration and enhancement of the park's diverse natural communities, and protection of the area's native wildlife populations, are the community's top priorities for this public resource. The habitat restoration and enhancement goals for Fairview Park are:
• Conserve natural vegetation communities and native wildlife populations.
• Protect archaeological and culturally significant materials (e.g., indigenous village use area, including two nationally recognized cultural resource historic sites).
• Restore ecologically appropriate and sustainable native habitat to benefit special-status plant and wildlife species. • Provide low-impact recreational opportunities that promote human wellness and connecting with nature.

Photo by City of Costa Mesa.
78 The Master Plan
Habitat Restoration & Enhancement Targets DRAFT
Utilizing the 2023 vegetation map and field observations conducted in 2023, ecologically suitable habitat restoration (Figure 6-1) and enhancement (Figure 6-2) targets for various locations within Fairview Park were identified. These targets were identified for vegetation map units that were highly degraded and in need of habitat restoration or would benefit from habitat enhancement, such as weed management and/or native seed addition.

The selection of ecologically appropriate restoration targets was based on a thorough assessment of several factors including:
• Environmental characteristics (e.g., soil, landscape position, slope aspect, slope angle) in each location;
• Physiological or ecological relationships of the dominant or co-dominant species in each map unit;
• The identity of nearby vegetation communities, expert opinion based on habitat restoration experience; and
Map Code | Habitat Restoration Targets
• A review of potential vegetation modeling outputs from the (Common Veg Name) Nature Reserve of Orange County Habitat Restoration and 1810 | Mulefat Thickets Enhancement Plan Update (Brooks et al. 2019). 1830 | Southem California Walnut Groves (W) 3120 | California Sagebrush - California Buckwheat Scrub Based on this analysis, a total of 80.17 acres of habitat restoration 3140 | California Sunfower Bush - Ashy Buckwheat Scrub
opportunities and 14.52 acres of habitat enhancement
3190 | California Sagebrush - Coast Prickly Pear Scrub
opportunities have been identified within Fairview Park (Table 3210 | Black Sage Scrub
6-1). By focusing on these targeted areas and implementing 4310 | Fiddleneck - Phacelia Fields
suitable restoration strategies, the ecological health and 8500 | Clustered Tarplant Fields
biodiversity of Fairview Park can be significantly improved and maintained for the long term.

Habitat Restoration Guidelines for Fairview Park are provided in Fairview Park Boundary Appendix C. Improper Fill Material (Extent in 2023)
Figure 6-1 - 2023 Vegetation Map and Habitat Restoration Opportunities for Fairview Park The Master Plan 79
DRAFT
Summary of Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Opportunities in Fairview Park Map Common Map Unit Restoration or Enhancemen
Scientific Vegetation Map Unit Name Coda / Name Opportunities Southwestern North American Riparian/Wash Scrub Group
Boccharis salicifola Shrubland Allance 1810 Mulefat Thickets 3.5 acres of Restoration Saix losiosepis Shrubland Alliance 1820 Arroyo Willow Thickets 0,16 acres of Enhancement Californian Broadieaf Forest and Woodland Group
Jogions caffornica Forest & Woodland Allance 1830 Souther California 0.04 acres of Enhancersent Watnut Groves 0.04 acres of Restoratice
California Coastal Evergreen Bluff and Dune Scrub Group Saccharis pilators Shrubland Allance 2310 Coyote Brush Scrub 0.39 acres of Enhancement Central and Sauth Coastal Californian Constal Sage Scrub Group Artemisio californica - Eniogoram fasciculatum 3120 California Sagebrush- 3.48 acres of Enhancement; Assonation Calforma Buckwheat 22.45 acres of Restoration Scrub
Encelio colifornica - Eriogonum cinereum 3140 California Sunflower 7.38 acres of Restoration Shrubland Alliance Bush - Ashy Buckwheat
Scrub
Arternisia californica - Opunto Attoralis 3190 California Sagebrush - 1.02 acres of Restocation Association Coast Prickly Pear Scrub
Map Code | Habitat Enhancement Salvia leucophylla Association (Introduced 3195 Purple Sage Scrub 1.17 acres of Enhancement Targets (Common Veg Name) Vegetation Community/Restoration Area [Introduced Vegetation Community/Restoration
Areal
1820 | Arroyo Wilow Thickets Satvic mellifero Shrubland Allance 3210 Black sage scrub 9.89 acres of Restoration 1830 | Southern Californica Walnut Groves (W) socomo menzesi Shrubtand Allance 3330 Coast Goldenbush Scrub 2.01 acres of Enhancement 2310 | Coyote Brush Scrub Califomia Annual Herb/Grass Group 3120 California Sagebrush - California Amstackia (menziest, tessellato) - Phocelia spp: 4310 Fiddleneck - Phacelia 0.13 acres of Enhancement, Buckwheal Scrub Herbaceous Allience Fields 7.64 acres of Restoration 3195 | Purple Sage Scrub (Introduced Castorian Mixed Annual/Perennial Freshwater Vernal Pool/Swale Bottomland Vegetation Community Restoration) Group
Deinandra fasciculota Herbaceous Alliance 6500 Clustered Tarplant Fields 1.18 acres of Enhancement:
3330 | Coasl Goldenbush Scrub 28.24 acres of Restoration 4310 | Fiddleneck - Phacelia Fields Eleacharis mocrostachya Herbaceous 6600 Pale Spike Rush Vernal 4.5 acres of Enhancement Association Pool Bottoms
6500 | Clustered Tarplant Fields Coastal Baja California Norte Maritime Succulent Scrub Group 6500| Pale Spike Rush Vernal Pool Bolloms Opuntie littoralis - Opuntia oricala 8120 Coast Prickly Pear Scrub 1.46 acres of Enhance ent 8120 | Coast Prickly Pear Scrub Cylindropuntia prolifera Shrubland Alliance Fairview Park Boundary
Improper Fill Material (Extent in 2023)
Figure 6-2 - Habitat Enhancement Targets of Fairview Park 80 The Master Plan
Other Management Opportunities DRAFT
In areas that would benefit from enhancement from higher native Other Management Opportunity 3 cover and diversity but are not suitable for habitat restoration (e.g., fuel modification areas, smaller areas, or areas mowed regularly, Approximately six acres of land within the 100-ft fuel modification such as in the immediate vicinity of the narrow-gauge railroad zone are currently maintained along property lines with tracks), other management opportunities have been identified neighboring properties to the north and south of Fairview Park. (Figure 4-3). Working with the local fire authorities, a fuel modification plan can be developed that will allow for increased native diversity and habitat structure while still achieving the fuel modification goals Other Management Opportunity 1 for fire safety.

To protect the resources in Fairview Park, highly invasive plants need to be controlled in perpetuity by the City. As an urban park Other Management Opportunity 4 with significant cultural and sensitive biological resources, new introductions of invasive plants and reintroductions of existing Approximately 24 acres within the narrow-gauge railroad network east of Placentia Avenue that are not suitable for habitat 2 invasive plants will always pose ongoing threats. This includes areas that have already been restored or will be restored in the restoration because of the current use and maintenance of the associated open space. These areas could be (a) enhanced with 5 1 future.
higher native cover and diversity using plants that are tolerant 2 The long-term management of the park should include control of of periodic mowing, and (b) managed for highly invasive weeds, high-priority invasive species following an adaptive management especially larger stature perennial weeds, such as black mustard, 2 approach, as presented in Appendix C. wild radish, fennel, and poison hemlock, to establish and maintain suitable habitat for grassland birds, including winter occupancy by burrowing owls.

Other Management Opportunity 2
Prepare long-term management guidelines and actions to protect Other Management Opportunity 5 the vernal pools and vernal pool watersheds as described in this report, and as requested by the USFWS (2014) to conserve the San There are about 11 acres of manicured lawn and landscaping trees, Other Management Opportunities a small portion of which could be repurposed to create an area 17 High-Prorty invasive Plant Management (Enbre Park Area Diego fairy shrimp in compliance with the federal Endangered 2 | Long-Term Managemen! Plas for Vernal Pool Haotat
Species Act. for "nature play" (e.g., soil mounds that can be manipulated for ¡ 3| Foel Modificatice Zone (FMZ) Plan that Anticipates Native Plan! Paletle Toleraot of Annual Summer Mowng sensory and spontaneous, creative play) to maintain this activity at 4 | Native Vegetation Enhancement, Inciding Wintering Burrowing Owl Habita:
the Park, while moving it out of the vernal pool watershed where 5) Nature Play Programming for Fortians of the Manicured Lawn Area that use is not compatible with the protection of biological and cultural resources.

The Master Plan 81
Strategic Habitat Restoration Project Opportunities DRAFT Based on the assessed constraints and opportunities, ninestrategic By implementing these strategic projects, the City can make Objective 1f: Design Mesa trail improvements to protect projects were identified to achieve the habitat restoration and significant progress towards achieving its habitat restoration and archaeological resources with an appropriate trail surface that enhancement goals (Section 1). These projects are categorized enhancement goals in Fairview Park, ensuring the conservation of can both adequately cap the natural soil and prevent further trail into three main groups: habitat restoration (Projects 1 to 4), its unique biological and cultural resources for future generations. erosion (e.g., super-stabilized decomposed granite product). habitat enhancement (Project 5), and wetland and riparian habitat Objective 1g: Construct an elevated vernal pool boardwalk remediation (Projects 6 and 7), along with two projects dedicated Project 1. Mesa Habitat Restoration and Indigenous Village to long-term habitat management (Projects 8 and 9). with fencing to preserve the trail connecting the lawn area Site Protection to the southwest corner of the Mesa while safeguarding the The following objectives encompass the nine strategic project Objective 1a: Collaborate with tribal representatives on the vernal pool watershed. The boardwalk will be raised above the opportunities, each targeting multiple benefits and prospects to development and implementation of the project plan. grade of the vernal pool basins, and its supports will not have accomplish the habitat restoration and enhancement goals for footings excavated in natural soils, thus preventing disruption of Fairview Park: Objective 1b: Remove the improper fill material to expose the underlying impermeable soil layer essential for the ponds" the natural soils and restore the historic viewshed of the Mesa formation. • Habitat Restoration (Projects 1-4): These projects aim to has these rects logical without damage to the soil biota or archaeological resources Objective 1h: Deplete the weed soil seed bank with a consistent, restore degraded habitats, emphasizing improved ecological (CA-ORA-58). function and promotion of native biodiversity. multi-year adaptive weed management program prior to installing Objective 1c: Eliminate incompatible uses of the vernal pool new native seed material. • Native Plant Enhancement (Project 5): This project focuses watershed, including maintenance mowing of the fly field, to on boosting native plant species presence across the park, Objective 1i: Restore the native flower fields and vernal pool protect the hydrological connection and upland nutrient supply watershed habitat that were covered by the improper fill material prioritizing species that are rare or that have distinctive for the conservation of the federally protected San Diego fairy ecological roles. with diverse, ecologically appropriate seed mixes, approved by shrimp in the vernal pool complex of Fairview Park.

USFWS and CDFW.
• Wetlands and Riparian Habitat Remediation (Projects 6-7): Objective 1d: Do not disturb the native soil on the Mesa by These projects address restoration and improvement of Objective 1j: Enhance the native annual herbaceous plant tilling, unnecessary grading, or digging, other than related to diversity of the remainder of the Mesa not directly impacted by wetland and riparian habitats, supporting native species and the removal of the improper fill material and to maintain the ecosystem services. the improper fill material.
hydrological function of the vernal pool features.
• Long-Term Habitat Management (Projects 8-9): These projects Objective 1k: Assess and implement enhancements to the Objective 1e: Provide appropriate fencing, educational signage, will establish sustainable management practices, including function and diversity of the vernal pool features, including east and trail improvements to organize human movement around the monitoring and adaptive strategies, to ensure the success of of Placentia Avenue, which is part of the historic extent of the perimeter of the Mesa, with a suitable connection to the existing restoration efforts and preservation of the park's ecological Mesa. boardwalk and viewing platform adjacent to the large vernal pool. health in the long term.
82 The Master Plan
RAFT
Project 2. Bluff Stabilization and Habitat Restoration Project Objective 3b: Restore CSS on the slopes with diverse, ecologically appropriate seed mixes with the goal of providing sufficient Objective 2a: Develop and implement an engineering solution resources to support a California Gnatcatcher population in the (see, e.g., Dudek 2003) to stabilize highly erosive features along park and adjacent natural areas along the lower Santa Ana River the bluff, including restoration of ecologically appropriate native that will be viable over the long term. perennial plants in drainages (e.g., southern California walnut, blue elderberry). Prioritize the use of native plants and stabilizers Objective 3c: Use limited container plantings and/or cactus that allow native plants to grow to stabilize the bluffs, rather than cuttings to establish faster shrub cover to close informal trails, to engineering solutions that eliminate habitat (e.g., use of shotcrete manage erosive features, orto increase the frequency of plants that and concrete channels). do not establish easily from seed and are either underrepresented in the community or provide an essential ecological service for Objective 2b: Deplete the weed soil seed bank with a consistent, wildlife. multi-year adaptive weed management program prior to installing new native seed material.

Project 4: Community-Supported California Coastal Sage
Objective 2c: Restore cactus scrub and maritime succulent scrub Scrub (CSS) Restoration in the Canyon on the slopes using diverse, ecologically appropriate seed mixes together with container plantings of selected species (e.g., cactus Objective 4a: Restore the native soil biota by consistent, multiyear cuttings, California boxthorn). weeding efforts led by the City, or an identified community organization, and supported by community volunteer events.

Objective 2d: Restore ecologically appropriate habitat along the drain at the base of the bluff, including mulefat scrub, willow Objective 4b: Increase the diversity and cover of natives from scrub, and sandbar willow - blue elderberry thickets. seed and nursery grown container plants that are installed and maintained by the City, or an identified community organization, and supported by community volunteer events.

Project 3. California Coastal Sage Scrub Slopes Restoration Project (Slopes North of the Mesa and East of Placentia) Objective 4c: Maintain the existing plantings by hand weeding around natives prior to significant seed set of the weeds.

Objective 3a: Deplete the weed soil seed bank with a consistent, multi-year adaptive weed management program prior to installing new native seed material.

Photo by Robert A. Hamilton
DRAFT
Project 5. Native Plant Enhancement of the Railroad Mesa Objective 6b: Prepare a Habitat Restoration and Monitoring Plan Objective 8b: Prioritize control of invasive plants, for approval by OCTA, CDFW and USFWS, which includes at least crown daisy, to meet fuel modification objectives for the Fuel While the railroad improvements and the fragmentation of the 3 years of natural rainfall-driven weed grow-and-kill prior to native open space precludes complete restoration of this area, the habitat seed installation (or at least, two years of weed grow-and-kill with can be improved by controlling non-natives and enhancing native a temporary overhead irrigation system, if feasible), followed Objective 8c: Develop plant palettes of ecologically suitable diversity and cover with species that are tolerant of mowing. by installation of a diverse locally collected seed mix following large native shrubs that tolerate pruning (i.e., removal of lower habitat restoration best practices described in Appendix B limbs to create vertical fuel breaks on larger plants), and native Objective 5a: Deplete the weed soil seed bank with a consistent, grasses and forbs that tolerate annual summer mowing. multi-year adaptive weed management program prior to installing Objective 6c: Implement the Plan, and monitor post-seeding new native seed material. establishment for five years, or until all the success criteria have Objective 8d: Develop a typical planting plan that allows for been met. groupings of native shrubs that are interspaced with native Objective 5b: Seed the area with a native seed mix with primarily plantings (e.g., needlegrasses, Stipa spp.) that are mowed to native herbaceous life-forms (e.g., perennial grass, annual forbs) Objective 6d: Place the successfully completed habitat restoration within 6 inches of the ground to create at least 50 percent cover thatare compatible with burrowing owls and other grassland birds, areas in a conservation easement to benefit OCTA. of horizontal fuel breaks in the FMZ. along with low rates of native shrubs that can tolerate periodic mowing during summer dormancy (e.g., coast goldenbush, Project 7. Wetlands and Riparian Habitat-Phase 2 (OCTA) Project 9. Long-Term Habitat Maintenance Plan California bush sunflower).

Water Conveyance Remediation Project
Objective 9a: Implement a weed management program
Project 6. Wetlands and Riparian Habitat-Phase 2 (OCTA) 9.5- Objective 7a: Follow engineering recommendations to to maintain the function and habitat quality of the natural acre CSS/Grassland Restoration Project remediate flow through the pond and channel system to minimize communities in the park, as well as the visitor experience. maintenance costs for the City to annually remove emergent Objective 6a: From the opportunities described above, identify vegetation from the ponds to meet vector control requirements. Objective 9b: Follow the approved Fuel Modification Plan.

9.5 acres of habitatrestoration to satisfy the outstanding obligation Project 8. Fuel Modification Plan Objective 9c: Provide patrols to manage impacts from off-trail to OCTA, focused on CSS and flower field habitat restoration that activity and unpermitted uses of the park. is ecologically appropriate for Fairview Park.

Objective 8a: Consult with the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) and the Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue (CMFR) to develop Objective 9d: Maintain conservation easements (e.g., Headlands a fuel modification plan for the existing fuel modification zones Dana Point Project Mitigation Area, Wetlands and Riparian Habitat (FMZs) (i.e., 100-ft zones from the property lines of habitable Project -Phase 1 and 2) by implementing an Early Detection structures) that balance the need for fire risk reduction and Rapid Response (EDRR) management program in Fairview Park managed vegetation that complements the surrounding native to maintain the quality of the habitat and to manage costs by habitat. controlling invasive plant populations when they are small. 84 The Master Plan
DRAFT
Objective 9e: Coordinate weed maintenance and biological Objective 9g: Prepare long-term management guidelines and actions to protect the vernal pools and vernal pool watersheds as (e.g., Nature Reserve of Orange County, Randall Reserve, Talbert described in this report, requested by USFWS (2014) to the San Nature Preserve, City of Costa Mesa Golf Course) to leverage Diego fairy shrimp, and summarized in Appendix E. resources and knowledge.

Objective 9f: Conform to federal and state environmental and wildlife laws.

Photo by Robert A. Hamilton
Long-term Invasive Plant Management Plan DRAFT
To protect the sensitive vegetation communities, rare plant populations, and important wildlife habitats in Fairview Park, it is crucial to implement a sustained control program for high-priority invasive plants. These invasive species have significant negative impacts on the park's biological resources and should be a primary focus of ongoing maintenance efforts. While numerous non- native plants are present in Fairview Park, prioritizing the control of highly invasive species is essential for effective biological resource protection. Some invasive plants may require only one treatment per year while others may necessitate repeated treatments, depending on factors such as plant traits, phenology, weather, and suitable treatment methods. Any constraints, such as avoiding herbicide use in vernal pool inundation areas, must also be considered.

Consistency and appropriate timing of invasive plant treatments are key factors in successful control and the protection of native habitats. The primary goals are 1) to prevent excessive biomass production from invasive plants that could displace native species, and 2) to control invasive plant populations before they produce viable seeds, ensuring their long-term management. By prioritizing the control of high-priority invasive plants, the City can work toward maintaining and restoring the ecological health of Fairview Park. A Long-Term Invasive Plant Management Plan is presented in Appendix E.

PRIORITY 1 CONTROL AREAS PRIORITY 2 CONTROL AREAS
6600 | Pale Spike Rush Vernal Wetlands and Riparian Habitat Future Habitat Restoration Fuel Modification Zones Pool Bottoms Areas Area, Including Removal of All Other Park Areas 6650] Pale Spike Rush Vernal Improper Fill Material to
Coastal Sage Scrub
Restore the VPW
Pool Bottoms (Restoration
Area Improper Fill Material
Vernal Pool Watershed (VPW)
High-Priority Invasive Plant Control Priority Areas
86 The Master Plan
Existing Fill Soil Removal DRAFT
Fill Placement on the Mesa on the Mesa. Today, significant portions of the historic vernal pool watershed remain covered by the improper fill material, With the intent of capping the archaeological site on the Mesa degrading significant cultural and biological resources in Fairview (CA-ORA-58), prior to construction of new park amenities, fill Park (Figure 2-21). material was placed on the Mesa in 1987 and 1988 (see Figure 2-14). The fill material did not, however, meet standards for The hydrological function, biodiversity, and extent of the Mesa capping an archaeological site, and included chemically active construction and paving debris that can degrade archaeological vernal pool watershed and the vernal pools would be significantly improved with the removal of the improper fill material. Remove artifacts instead of preserving them (City of Costa Mesa 2008). the improper fill material to the natural soil grade with special attention to not disturbing the natural soil and protecting Not only was the fill material improper for the protection of the cultural resources. Fill removal should be completed in indigenous cultural resources, but it also created three new threats combination with native habitat restoration efforts as described to biological resources on the Mesa. First, the fill material covers in Strategic Habitat Restoration Project Opportunities. and takes away habitat for native flower fields and fairy shrimp.

Second, the fill material impairs the hydrologic function of the Fill material may be compatible for re-use in the creation of natural vernal pool watershed by reducing the amount of precipitation play features, or soil mounds that can be manipulated for sensory that would feed the vernal pool complex, which is especially and spontaneous, creative play within the footprint of the narrow- critical in below-average rainfall years when the pools do not gauge railroad track located outside of culturally and biologically typically form. Third, the fill material creates an unnatural state sensitive areas.
of low soil microorganism and plant diversity, which sustains large infestations of invasive plants (e.g., black mustard, poison hemlock) that produce large quantities of seed, which is then Fill Placement in the Canyon transported into other locations in the park, threatening the diversity and function of native habitat. During the construction of the Fairview Park Wetlands and Riparian Project, the bottom of the canyon was filled with material excavated to create the wetland features. The material used to fill In 1993, The Keith Companies dug east/west-trending strips in the the bottom of the canyon has not been analyzed but is presumed fill to allow study of the archaeological site limits, resulting in the to be natural alluvial soil material. The fill areas are primarily topography of the fill area today (see Figure 2-16) (City of Costa dominated by nonnative plants with some recruitment of native Mesa 2008). Between 1996 and 2009, improper fill material that from the adjacent community-led CSS covered a significant portion of Vernal Pool 1 was removed as part vegetation, including of two restoration efforts. It is not well documented whether this habitat restoration work. Habitat restoration targets for this area fill material was disposed of offsite or moved to another location are identified in Section 04.

Photos by MIG Inc.

The Master Plan 87
Drainage Issues DRAFT
The site contains two areas where erosion is a concern. Both areas The flooding of the southern boundary of the west side is addressed are discussed in Chapter 03. The bluff erosion can be addressed by by installing a drain at the base of the bluff, or to Canyon Drive discouraging park users from walking on the bluff faces at points where it may be drained off of the site. Care must be taken in any other than stairs or trails (e.g. by using fencing and signage), and drainage measure to study possible effects upon the vernal pools by implementing a combination of engineered bluff stabilization and their drainage and watershed. and natural revegetation methods in areas showing persistent erosion issues.

Photo by City of Costa Mesa. Photo by City of Costa Mesa. Photos by MIG Inc. 88 The Master Plan
Erosion Control Measures DRAFT
Bluff Erosion the vegetation can also be reestablished within the arroyos or bluff erosion features to provide ground cover and reduce the The erosion of the bluff face is a natural process, which has been velocity. A summary of the management principles associated accelerated through public use and activities within the park. with erosion control for the site include:

The characteristics of the bluff affecting erosion include the soil type and topography. Additional runoff tributary to the bluff face • Retain the natural vegetation will also accelerate the development of erosion features. The • Minimize grading
exposed face of the bluff area is naturally susceptible to (1) sheet erosion, (2) rill erosion, and (3) gully erosion. Pedestrian traffic • Vegetate denuded areas along the bluff face and mountain bikes have caused additional aggravation of the erosion process, mechanically dislodging the • Divert runoff away from exposed slopes where consistent with material of the bluff face. natural grade
• Keep runoff velocities low
Erosion Control Measures and Suggested Recommendations TRAIL FLOODED - KEEP OUT • Prepare drainage systems to handle the concentrated flow TRAL CLRSED TEMPGRARILY TB PENTECT ENBANSERED SPECIES AND Erosion control features can be installed as part of the park SENSTEIVE ENVIGKMENTAL FEATURES. master plan implementation, which will assist in minimizing the The existing natural arroyos, which have eroded within the bluff areas, can be protected through structural management measures PLATELEM EARE amount of erosion of the bluff, bluff canyons or arroyos, and the TENSEVERE POL HEATET natural canyon areas. The bluffs are important natural features in order to prevent continued erosion. Two different treatments to be preserved. The amount of erosion, which occurs to the are recommended which will have a low visual impact upon the site. These control measures include:
bluffs, is partially dependent upon the amount of runoff which discharges over the bluff face or tributary to the bluff erosion Geoweb: This is a material which can be utilized to stabilize the features. Runoff over the bluffs is partially a natural feature of the bluff face and the bluff erosion features. The material is a plastic site and is unavoidable. Restoration of the site to its historical interlocking web consisting of diamond shapes, which are about grade elevations will relieve existing drainage patterns caused by 8 inches square, creating large connected cells. the placement of fill soils. A management measure is to minimize public access to the bluff face and direct foot traffic to specific The material is placed on the slope or drainage courses to provide access point down the face of the bluffs. This is accomplished a flexible revetment. The cells are then filled with soil or gravel through defining the trail along the top of the bluff and by the and then vegetation is established in the cells. This material has addition of wooden stairway systems. Vegetation of exposed recently been applied on a large slope failure in the Newport earthen areas and slopes will greatly assist in maintaining the Beach back bay area adjacent to the bike trail. After completion, natural areas, which are experiencing, surface erosion. In addition, Photos by MIG Inc.

The Master Plan 89
DRAFT
it is not possible to see the material, however, it provides an he natural path stinen, which would also integrate well with the natural park setting.

Check Structures: A "check" is a small grade control structure placed across the stream, which slows the water velocity and creates a permanent stream elevation at that location which cannot be eroded. A series of checks can be constructed along these drainage features to maintain a low velocity. A new material, which has been implemented to construct the checks, is a vinyl interlocking sheet pile. The vinyl material is lightweight, which allows the material to be installed by hand, and is inert so that it has a high longevity. The checks can also be constructed of rock, timbers, or other material.

Photos by MIG Inc.
90 The Master Plan
Developed Park Drainage & Hydrology DRAFT
Proposed or Modified Drainage Patterns Existing Identified Drainage Deficiencies Recommended Drainage Features The park master plan proposes to perform minimal grading to The primary drainage deficiency, which has been identified Proposed permanent public facilities constructed as part of implement the proposed facilities and maintain the existing through this qualitative evaluation, is an area located in the implementing the park master plan should investigate the topographic/drainage patterns as much as possible. One of southern portion of the site, near the existing. residential area local drainage requirements and ensure that the proposed the primary considerations for maintaining the natural drainage at Pacific Avenue. The runoff generated from a 16-acre portion grading provides positive drainage. The fill removal activities patterns is associated with the bluff top area and the existing vernal of the bluff top area drains toward the residential area at Pacific should maintain the natural drainage patters and reduce the pools. The vernal pool habitat is extremely sensitive to surface Avenue. The natural topography within this area causes the runoff potential for erosion. Any large proposed impervious areas, such drainage and is dependent upon this runoff to sustain itself. It to be directed towards a low point near Canyon Drive and Pacific as parking lots, should include appropriate surface drainage is critical within this area that the natural drainage boundaries, Avenue. This area does not have any direct outlet and has caused collection facilities which may only require curb and gutters. New which have been identified, be maintained to the maximum flooding problems for the adjacent buildings, which appear to active park areas, which are grassed for public use, such as picnic amount possible. There are some disturbed areas of deposited have been constructed below the grade of the park. areas, should be graded to ensure positive drainage and should fill soils within these areas. It is proposed as part of the grading have a slope greater than 2%. Erosion control features and best for the park that these areas would be returned to the original The remainder of the park site appears to be adequately drained management practices should be applied during the construction historic condition with the natural drainage patterns. through the natural topography. The vernal pools are self- period in order to minimize the sedimentation impacts. contained drainage catchments and do not have outlets, but this The only significant change through the grading involves the is an integral part of this natural feature. Regional flood protection It is recommended that the existing surface drainage deficiency establishment of the riparian area in the location of the existing for the area is provided through the Fairview Channel and the be corrected that has been identified as part of this evaluation.

Placentia Drain. This earthen ditch drain was created during County of Orange has prepared a preliminary design study, dated Construction of an underground storm drain is feasible to achieve agricultural uses of the site collecting water from the northern August 1991, which has evaluated the flood protection levels the desired level of flood protection, and should prove to be low areas and draining south along the bluff face to what is now provided by the channel. The projects contemplated in this report desirable in consideration of the vernal pools. the south end of Talbert Nature Preserve. The drain has not been have been permanently shelved due to the fact that flooding maintained and is filled at several trail crossings. A riparian area in in the area of the Channel is not a high risk and not related to the drain is to be enhanced in the south and created in the north channel capacity, but to backing up in the Greenville Banning at by connecting the drain to a constant water source in the Fairview times of maximum flow.

Channel, and restoring the flow line of the Placentia Drain.

The Master Plan 91
Security & Fire Prevention DRAFT
Security
Designated trails are wide enough to allow for patrol vehicles to reach most areas of the park. All trails are accessible by foot and bicycle patrol. The hours of the park are to be from dawn to dusk, and security lighting is not to be provided with the exception of the train station and maintenance yard, and museum facilities.

Fire Prevention
Fire vehicles will be able to utilize the designated wide trails in the event of medical aid or fire emergencies. Gates are to be placed at intervals in the trails delineation system for emergency fire access to restoration areas. At the time of detail design of the infrastructure water system, hydrants are to be provided over mains.

The plan calls for irrigated zones to join the residential interface at Canary Drive, Swan Circle and at Pacific Avenue and Canyon Drive.

The strip of land between the Fairview Channel and Swan Drive is to be disked periodically to prevent the growth of seasonally dry vegetation in the vicinity of the residential community on Swan Drive. The trail system breaks the restoration areas into segments that will replace the current practice of disking bands of vegetation Photos by MIG Inc. Facing page photo by City of Costa Mesa 92 The Master Plan
DRAFT
07 Implementation DRAFT
DRAFT
The detailed design decisions are critical to implementing the Master Plan Objectives, and assuring that the vision of Fairview Park is fully realized. The following guidelines are intended to serve as parameters for future designers and City decision makers during implementing phases of the park plan. They are both reminders of the types of features discussed to be included in the park during the Master Plan process, and further elaboration from a design standpoint on methods for achieving the intent of the Master Plan. The overriding factor to be considered in the design is the desired natural, low-key character of the park. The man-made features and improvements should, as much as possible, allow nature to speak for herself. The recommended materials and design suggestions are intended to allow the designed features to blend with the natural areas, to be substantial and functional while providing a consistent, quality appearance. In laying out trail routes, the existing pathways are to be utilized wherever possible

TRAILS AND PUBLIC RESOURCE OPERATIONS AND SITE ACTIVITIES

PUBLIC ACCESS EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION AND MAINTENANCE AND USES

INTERPRETATION PRESERVATION
Facing Page Photo by City of Costa Mesa.

Implementation 95
Design Guidelines DRAFT
Trails associated watersheds by using suitable fencing, interpretive Trail Delineation/Fencing displays, and the removal of unauthorized user-defined trails Trails facilitate movement around Fairview Park and are extensively that have formed through the vernal pool watersheds. Trail delineators shall be utilized to protect and preserve used by the publicto enjoy the unique resources and features of the sensitive cultural and biological resources by directing human park. Preserving and enhancing passive use recreation is a central • Provide ADA-accessible pathway(s) from the main parking lot movement around these areas. Because of the dynamic nature goal of the Master Plan Update and trails are the primary method to the existing paved multi-purpose path west of the main and seasonal movement of vegetation and sensitive wildlife for accommodating park access. During public outreach activities parking lot. species, trail delineation locations should be regularly evaluated conducted during the Master Plan Update process, consensus • Provide an emergency and service vehicular access point into for effectiveness in protecting resources. was generally formed around a desire for well maintained and the park from Pacific Avenue. Develop protocol guidelines clearly defined trails along with the removal of excess trails on Key Master Plan Update recommendations regarding trails are for vehicular use of this access point. See Attachment # for the Mesa to protect sensitive biological and cultural resources. reference. the following:

Additional desires were expressed to utilize natural materials to • Remove excess trails on the Mesa. • Incorporate natural materials for fencing define trails and the prioritization of enforcement to control use by motorized vehicles were emphasized. • Include multi-use, possibly separated trails. • Apply research-informed strategies for locating fences across the park.

Key Master Plan Update recommendations regarding trails are • Ensure wide trails for loop, narrow trails for others. the following: • Fence-off biologically sensitive areas. • Utilize natural materials for trail rather than synthetic. • Provide clearly defined trails and establish a designated trail • Provide wildlife-friendly fencing. • Prioritize enforcement or prohibition of motorized bikes on system for the park. • Ensure fencing allows for natural plant growth. park trails.
• Develop and adopt design standards for the designated trail system, including widths, materials, and designated modes of • Create improved connectivity to key adjacent sites such as the Trail delineators should be constructed of natural materials such as travel by trail type. Santa Ana River. post and rope, or post wire materials. Wood post and rail fencing may be required in high traffic areas. To limit ground disturbing • Establish functional and pedestrian pathways allowing for • Ensure regular maintenance to trails. activities, posts are to be driven into undisturbed soil and not pedestrian access in both wet and dry seasons for approved Trail design varies depending on type and intensity of use and excavated or placed in concrete footings. When trails cross the trails, including from the north end of Pacific Avenue to the vernal pool, alternative trail delineation is to be used that does location,
north end of Canyon Drive. not penetrate the soil including gabion baskets, or stacked wood fencing design.
• Pathways shall be planned and designed in a manner that protects the integrity of the vernal pools and the vernal pool watersheds.
• Provide for long-term preservation of the vernal pools and their 96 Implementation
DRAFT

WETLAND &

RIPARIAN
AREA
GOLF

FAIRVIEW PARK

MODEL CITY OF COSTA MESA
GLIDER
Trails Plan

MESA AND TRAIN
AREA
LEGEND
• Multi-Purpose Trail

LAWN AREA
TALBERT NATURE cor: Maintenance/Vehicular Acces

PRESERVE
VERNAL Primary Pedestrian Trail
POOLS Secondary Pedestrian Trail
-BLUFF ESTANCIA NIGH
Existing ADA* Access Path
VERNAL
Existing Sidewalk
POOLS

ELEMENTARY
VERNAL
POOLS SCHOO!
•ADA : Amencans For Disabilities Act
Poll tal
Implementation 97
DRAFT
Trail delineators are to be placed two feet off the edge of Park Furniture • Provide additional trash and dog waste receptacles. trails. If no significant intrusion is apparent into the restoration Benches and picnic tables should be rustic in character and • Ensure ADA accessible furniture. areas, vernal pool areas, archaeological areas, vernal basins, or sensitive restoration areas, the delineators may be removed. should be able to be installed without concrete footings, in order • Install bike racks at park.

Annual monitoring of intrusion into restoration areas should be to avoid excavation into the archaeological remains. Wood and implemented by the City of Costa Mesa with a biologist in order concrete should be the predominant materials. Wood should • Include benches to enhance the experience of views at the have a stained rather than painted surface. The same furniture bluffs. to evaluate the need for trail delineation. Each year sections of the delineator may be removed on a trial basis. The goal for this should be used throughout the park. Trash receptacles should be • Concentrate most furniture in the lawn area. program is to maintain vigorous vegetation, stop erosion, and simple metal trash cans with restraints. Drinking fountains should protect the vernal basins and archaeological sites with as little be sandblasted exposed aggregate concrete. physical intrusion on the natural environment by way of delineators Lighting as is possible. Key Master Plan Update recommendations regarding park furniture are the following: Pedestrian scale security lighting should occur only in the developed parts of the park site (the entrance and picnic areas • Use natural materials for park furniture. on the west side, and the parking lot and train station area on the • Retain and repair existing park furniture.

Trail Type / Mode of Travel Width Material
Pedestrian Trails / Walking and running 3'-4° Compacted earth, decomposed granite Multi-purpose Trail / Walking, running and non-motorized bicycle riding 8' Compacted earth, decomposed granite, concrete or asphalt Bike / Safety / Maintenance Trail / Walking and running and non-motorized bicycle 8' paved trail with markings separating Concrete, or asphalt riding and maintenance vehicles movement /
eparated Bike / Satety / Maintenance Trail / Walking and running and non-motorize paved trail with 4' vegetated separati Compacted earth, decomposed granite, concrete, asphalt bicycle riding and maintenance vehicle d 4' wide pedestrian tr erdalk/ Walking and running and non-motorized bicycle riding and maintenance 8' wide Wood or composite boards ADA Accessible Pathways 6' wide paved trail Stabilized decomposed granite, asphalt or concrete 98 Implementation
DRAFT
east side). The remainder of the park should not be lighted and should be closed to the public after dark. Light fixtures should be chosen which repeat the sandblasted exposed aggregate concrete and wood materials of the other park furniture.

Stairways
Existing stairway down the bluff should be repaired and maintained in good condition to match original design intent. Signage and adjacent trails should be designed to discourage use of informal trails on the bluff surface.

FAIRVIEW PARK
Nature Play CITY OF COSTA MESA

PROPOSED SITE
Play areas at the park should enhance the educational goals MESA FEATURES of the park and develop future community stewardship and LEGEND
appreciation of the unique features of the park. Traditional structured playground features are not desired at the park. Dense Planting Interest Nodes
Key Master Plan Update recommendations regarding nature play LAWN AREA are the following: Trailhead Kiosk

BITER PLAY
Fence
• Locate nature play features on the lawn or on the east side of the park. Existing Tree
New Tree At Parking Lot
• Create a centralized natural and educational play area.

Area For Added Benches
• Utilize the site to enhance community education about the nexus between (1) human health and (2) ecological health and (3) conservation of natural open spaces.

VERNAL
PO GLS
Site Activity and Uses
Implementation 99
DRAFT
Interpretive Area and Signing Entrance These systems should be installed with pipe on grade so that excavation in the archaeological area will not be needed, and The central interpretive area is intended to serve as a starting The design vocabulary of park entrances should be further refined so that the piping can be removed without damaging the plants point for learning about the archaeological and natural features to highlight the unique features of the park. The entrances, both when the growth is established. Where permanent irrigation of the site. This area is not to contain buildings or tall structures. It to east and west should be designed to echo the other designed system is to be installed, monitoring of the trenching should is intended that the interpretive information be conveyed through elements such as signage and site furnishings. Ornamental occur per the recommendations of the archaeological report. low-level signage, castings at ground level and limited modeling planting areas around the entrances and the developed portions The City standards for irrigation equipment and installation will These components should be integrated into a flowing sculptural of the site, on both the east and west, should be replanted with a be applied design that will draw visitors easily through the space. It should variety of Southern California native and pollinator plant species. provide seating and provide space sufficient for small classes to Introduce plantings that will occur in the naturally occurring Erosion and Drainage Control
gather and listen to a docent or experience the features being habitats of the rest of the site. Priority should be given to displayed. Signing throughout the site should be low level, visible, removing invasive species, such as Pride of Madeira, from these Construct erosion control measures along the western bluff. This but inconspicuous. Low tilted bases of sandblasted concrete with high visibility areas. measure will arrest the deteriorating land area and protect the brass or porcelain enamel signing should be considered CAL ORA-58 archaeological site.

Parking lots
Park Structures Construct the proposed drain in the area of Pacific Avenue. This No new parking is proposed in this Master Plan Update, but the improvement will relieve the flooding which occurs in the southern No new park structures are planned on the west side of the park. character of the parking lots should be maintained as rustic as their portion of the site, which is periodically affecting adjoining Instead of a park structure, a centralized outdoor area can serve function will allow. For example, existing railroad tie boundaries property:
the educational and orientation program function for education should be replaced in kind, In the parking areas on the west side and interpretation on numerous topics related to the park. bordering the lawn, new trees should be incorporated to relieve Removal of Improper Fill Soils the urban appearance and to mitigate the urban heat island effect.

On the east side, provide for a potential native plant growing This is an ideal location for donated trees to be planted as all Remove the fill material that was deposited as a cap for the space in a location that avoids impacts to native habitat. The other locations of the site are not appropriate for tree donations. CAL ORA-58 archaeological site. This material contains asphalt, growing space shall be planned and designed in consultation concrete, and other foreign material, which may further degrade with a qualified restoration ecologist. Additionally, provide for an the site. The removal of this material will be necessary before any on-site maintenance and storage facility, or designated area for restoration may begin in this area. Prior to the removal of the efficient storage and use of Fairview Park restoration tools and Temporary irrigation systems will be needed to establish the debris, a phasing plan is to be developed, which is to develop equipment, and to support the operations of the native plant native habitat areas. methods for preserving species of wildlife currently occupying growing space. the uneven terrain. Once the fill is removed, the area should be re-vegetated.
100 Implementation
DRAFT
&' Bike/ Safety/ Maintenance
Trail Donna * Wide Existin
3' Wide Pedestrian Trail
8' Wide Bike/ Safety/ Maintenance Trail
8 'Wide Multi-purpose
Trad Deinsta
8' Bike/ Safety/ Maintenance
Trail
4' Pedestrian Trail Hista Restoration Aren
Trail Dinata
Heat Ristoston deca
8-0
2900, 50;
8' Wide Multi-Purpose Trail
Separated Bike/ Safety/ Maintenance Trail
Implementation 101
DRAFT
Mesa and Bluffs East Side and Model Railroad Area
This area includes the vernal pools, coastal bluff scrub, and large In addition to landscape enhancements and improvements to the areas of native grassland restoration. These are among the most picnicking sites, it is recommended that an on-site maintenance sensitive areas in terms of important and unique habitat. This and storage facility, or designated area is incorporated for efficient area would establish a firm direction for the total project, create storage and use of Fairview Park restoration tools and equipment. interpretive opportunities, and offer important bluff top trails for Additionally, proposed enhancements for the east side include a public use. At the time of the fill soil removal from the area of native plant growing space on the east side of Fairview Park in the archaeological site, restoration of the native grasslands must a location that avoids impacts to sensitive habitat. The growing be started. Due to the presence of vernal pools, space shall be planned and designed in consultation with a also offer the greatest opportunity for attracting outside financial qualified restoration ecologist. The on-site maintenance and participation. storage facility will also complement the operation of the native plant growing space.

Northwestern Lowlands
This area also offers large areas of sensitive habitat restoration, as it will contain alluvial scrub, and coastal strand. The area also will serve as the link to Talbert Nature Preserve to the west and south. With the completion of this segment, the major portion of the western park area will be completed as a contiguous habitat.

Group Picnic Area - Lawn Area
Improvements to gathering and picnic areas, as well as centralized education, interpretation and nature play features, will be located within the developed lawn area. Additionally, revegetation of bare and denuded areas along with new trail delineation and signage linking trail connections can be completed along with trial overlooks allowing views to the Pacific Ocean, Catalina and the restored northwestern lowlands.
102 Implementation
Appendices DRAFT
Appendices completed as part of the Fairview Park Master Plan Update are summarized below.

Please visit costamesaca.gov/fvpmp to review full appendices.

Appendix A: Outreach Documents
This document includes a summary of community
feedback gathered during the outreach process, as
well as individual written responses collected
from community meeting participants. This
document also includes a description of outreach
activities for each meeting conducted as part of
the Master Plan Update project. Photo by MIG Inc.

Appendix B: Biological Resources Technical Appendix C: 2023 Vegetation Map and Habitat Appendix D: Cultural, Tribal Cultural, and Paleontological Report Restoration Opportunities Report Resources Assessment Report This report contains an inventory of documented This report supports the Fairview Park Master Plan Update This report includes a description of the site's cultural, tribal biological resources present in Fairview Park based by providing an updated assessment of the park's cultural, and paleontological resources, and a description of on site investigations conducted during the vegetationcommunities, soils, and other site conditions the site's prehistoric cultural setting. This report also Master Plan Update project, and documented to identify ecologically appropriate habitat restoration synthesizes previously completed cultural resources and species observations from other recently completed and enhancement opportunities. This report also outlines historical resources investigations completed at the site, as projects and biological studies. This report also changes observed since the original Master Plan, completed well as ethnographic information based on previous study. includes an assessment of special-status plant and restoration projects, and longterm vegetation targets to The report underscores the site's high sensitivity due to the wildlife species present in Fairview Park, and support the conservation of biological resources. In addition, site's extensive history of human occupation dating back over description of sensitive vegetation communities this report contains a guide to support best practices for 3500 years. This report also establishes mitigation measures and habitat features. restoration projects, as well as a long-term invasive plant to protect the site's various sensitive cultural resources. management plan, which are crucial to support the
ecological health of the park and its sensitive habitats. 103 Appendices