Agenda, first session — Crescent City City Council, June 15, 2026 (part 2 of 4)

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Chlorination (disinfection) is presently the only treatment the raw water requires. The chlorination building houses dual chlorinators, chemical storage area and an emergency power generator. In approximately 1989, the Department of Corrections, in addition to upgrading the pumps at the Ranney Well, also constructed an 18-inch transmission main parallel to the original 14-inch main, between the Ranney Well and Pelican Bay State Prison's 12-inch service lateral. Just south of and after the chlorination facility the lateral tees from the 18-inch and inter-connects by cross fitting to the 1958 14-inch transmission main, which continues to the 50,000-gallon Elevated Tank and pressure control facility near Highway 101 and Wonder Stump Road. The other section reduces to 12-inches and supplies the Pelican Bay State Prison. From the Ranney Well and through the chlorination facility, water is pumped to the 50,000-gallon Elevated Reservoir, an equalization-storage tank located some 14,750 feet from the Ranney Well.

Work on the Ranney Well pumps was done in 1989 and involved replacing two pumps and rebuilding the third. Each pump is capable of moving approximately 1,680 gallons per minute (gpm) at 235 feet of total dynamic head. Field pump flow indicated that the three pumps together produce between 6.0 and 6.2 MGD (2,190 to 2,263 MGY) which is in excess of the water rights permit maximum (1,194 MGY).

Variable Frequency Drives were added to the pumps in 2011. A new water system control and data acquisition (SCADA) system was installed and commissioned in 2020. From the Elevated Reservoir, water flows by gravity approximately two miles through a recently upgraded 24-inch water transmission main to the City's distribution system and storage reservoirs. The 12-inch and 24-inch transmission mains start at the Elevated Tank and run southwesterly along Wonder Stump Road. At the Wonder Stump Road-Elk Valley Cross Road intersection, the 24-inch main turns west on Elk Valley Cross Road and heads to Lake Earl Drive. The 12-inch main reduces to 10 inches and continues south along the railroad right of way. At the Lake Earl Drive intersection, the alignment heads south along Lake Earl Drive, which turns into Northcrest Drive. At the Northcrest Drive-Washington Street intersection, the pipe goes west one block and turns south at the Oregon Street intersection. At the Oregon Street-Washington Street intersection the 24-inch main interconnects with an existing 10-inch main. From this intersection the 24-inch main alignment heads south to the Oregon StreetHarding Street intersection, where it then goes one block west to California Street. The main then goes south on California Street to the Cemetery. The pipe enters Cooper Street at the cemetery access entrance and runs west along Cooper Street until Amador Street where it turns south to the 1.5 million gallon tank. At the Amador St. Reservoir the 24-inch main reduces to two 16-inch supply lines: one heads west in Macken Avenue to Joaquin Street and then south to Pacific Avenue where it connects to the distribution grid on the west side of the system. The other supply line goes south along Butte Street, from the Macken-Butte intersection, turning east at Pacific for one block and heading south on G Street, interconnecting to the existing distribution grid at 9th Street and G Street.

The first Washington Blvd. storage reservoir and pumping facility was constructed in 1963 but was replaced in 2001 with a 4-million-gallon reservoir. The upgrade equalizes supply and demand, provides sufficient supply for fire protection, and furnishes supply during periods of maintenance and repair. The station's two pumps were replaced with three 75 horsepower (HP) pumps, and a new auxiliary power system was also installed. The pumps maintain adequate pressures within the distribution system. The Washington Boulevard pump station and Amador pump station are all controlled by SCADA with operator-adjustable setpoints.

The Amador pumping facility was originally installed in 1982 to increase the volume of storage in Crescent City and to improve pressures, flows and fire demands within the distribution DRAFT
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system. Three identical 75 HP pumps are provided to deliver flow volumes to the distribution system, in conjunction with the Washington Boulevard pumping system. Auxiliary power is provided for this station by a 300 kW Onan generator. The Amador Street Reservoir is a welded steel reservoir built in 1982 to increase the City's storage. It has a total capacity of

1.5 million gallons but is operated at an effective capacity of 1.0 million gallons. Amador is currently undergoing a multi-year two-phase renovation of which Phase-I (safety improvements) is complete. Between 2000 and 2002, approximately 4,600 linear feet of distribution lines were added with 16-inch high-pressure distribution piping. The City produces all its own water and sells it to other water agencies. These are the districts of Meadowbrook, Churchtree, and Bertsch Oceanview. Production from the Smith River between 2021 and 2025 is 739 to 829 MGY, well below the permitted amount of 1,194 MGY.

Year
Water Production
(Smith River)
2021 805.32
2022 739.56
2023 780.05
2024 788.95
2025 829.44
A map of the Crescent City water distribution area is included as Figures 1 through 5.

Crescent City supplies water to 4,581 active connections (2025). Approximately 3,987 residential connections, 579 connections are commercial, 15 are industrial connections, and Pelican Bay State Prison.

In 2025 a total of 829.44 million gallons of water was distributed to the City’s customer base.

3.2 Service Area Boundary Maps
The Crescent City service area boundary is shown in Figures 1 and 2.

3.3 Service Area Climate
Requirement: Describe the service area of the supplier, including… climate…. (CWC 10631 (b)).

According to: http://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/crescent-city/california/unitedstates/usca1878a the average temperatures and precipitation for Crescent City are shown in the table and graph below:

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Gasquet, California is inland from Crescent City but is representative of the precipitation received within the Smith River drainage area. Annual precipitation and 5-year average precipitation trends are shown in the chart below.

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3.4 Service Area Population and Demographics
Requirement: Describe the service area of the supplier, including current and projected population The projected population estimates shall be based upon data from the state, regional, or local service agency population projections within the service area of the urban water supplier and shall be in five-year increments to 20 years or as far as data is available . (CWC 10631).

3.4.1 Service Area Population
Based on the GIS analysis of 2000 US Census Bureau data at the block level, the population of the Crescent City water service area was determined to be 3.53 persons per total connections. Current (2025) population figures for the City of Crescent City service area are based on 3.53 persons per total water connections. Population projections (2025-2050) are based on the California Department of Finance projected population growth rates as shown below:

Year Range
Projected
Population Growth
Rate
2025 to 2030 -3%
2030 to 2035 -1%
2035 to 2040 -1%
2040 to 2045 -1%

3.5 Other Demographic Factors
Requirement: Describe the service area of the supplier, including. . . other demographic factors affecting the supplier’s water management planning. (CWC 10631).

The Crescent City service area is primarily urban residential in nature. The table below shows the percentage of residential, commercial institutional, and industrial connections, and the percentage by volume sold.

Connections
Percent by
Connections
Volume
MG
Percent by
Volume
Residential 3987 87% 229.3 43%
Commercial
Institutional 579 13% 298.7 56%
Industrial 15 0.3% 1.2 0.22%
Total 4,581 529.5

3.5.1 Other Social, Economic, and Demographic Factors
Requirement: Describe the service area of the supplier, including. . . other demographic factors affecting the supplier’s water management planning. (CWC 10631).

According to US Census data other social, economic, and demographic factors include:

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Crescent
City
Del Norte
County California
Median household income $35,540 $67,058 $100,149
Per capita income past 12-months $17,501 $31,028 $36,955 Percent of persons in poverty 17.2% 19.9% 11.8%
According to California Code of Regulations Title 22, section 64300, a disadvantaged community (DAC) water system is a community with a median annual household income (MAHI) less than eighty percent (80%) of the statewide MAHI. Since Crescent City’s MAHI is only 35% of the state MAHI, Crescent City meets the definition of a DAC.

3.6 Land Use within Service Area
Del Norte County Community Development will be contacted regarding any large planned residential developments, buildouts, or additions to the water system anticipated, or being discussed in the next 20 years. Del Norte County Community Development indicated that there were no large developments or additions planned that would impact the Crescent City Water system.

3.7 Submittal Tables
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4.0 WATER USE CHARACTERIZATION
This Section describes and quantifies the current, and projected water uses within the City’s service area.

4.1 Non-Potable Versus Potable Water Use
All of Crescent City water demand is met with potable water. Crescent City provides wastewater collection services in their service area. Wastewater collected within the City service area is treated at the Crescent City Wastewater Treatment Facility. Recycled wastewater is not currently being used in the Crescent City service area. Crescent City does not distribute recycled water, raw water, or any other non-potable water.

4.2 Past, Current, and Projected Water Use by Sector
This section will quantify past, current, and projected water uses, to the extent records are available.

Requirement: For an urban retail water supplier, quantify, to the extent records are available, past and current water use, over the same five-year increments described in subdivision (a), and projected water use, based upon information developed pursuant to subdivision (a), identifying the uses among water use sectors, including, but not necessarily limited to, all of the following:
• (A) Single-family residential
• (B) Multifamily.
• (C)Commercial.
• (D) Industrial.
• (E) Institutional and governmental.
• (F) Landscape.
• (G) Sales to other agencies.
• (H) Saline water intrusion barriers, groundwater recharge, or conjunctive use, or any combination thereof.
• (I) Agricultural.
• (I) Distribution system water loss (CWC 10631 (d)
The City of Crescent City utilizes the following use sectors:
• Single Family Residential;
• Commercial / Institutional (includes multi-family residential); • Industrial; and
• A single Prison Connection.

The City does not have any water use sectors in addition to those listed in the Water Code.

4.2.1 Optional Water-Use Sectors in Addition to Those Listed in Water Code The City does not have any water use sectors in addition to those listed in the Water Code.

4.2.2 Past Water Use
Water use
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volume by use sector for the past 10-years is shown in the chart below:
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The chart above shows a steady increase in commercial/Institutional demand over the past 10 years. Residential water demand decreased from 2015-2018 and levelled off from 2018 to 2025. Prison consumption decreased significantly in the past 5 years.

The chart below shows a steady decrease in groundwater production and total sales in the past 30 years.

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4.2.3 Current Water Use
2025 retail demand for potable and raw water by use type is included in Table 4-1.

The 2025 water use volume and connection count by sector are shown in the tables below:

Connections
% of Total
Connections
Res Connections 3987 87%
Comm / Inst
Connections 579 13%
Industrial Connections 15 0.33%
Total 4581
MGY
% of Total
Volume Sold
Res Volume Sold 229 54%
Comm / Inst Volume
Sold 192 45%
Industrial Volume Sols 1 0%
Total 423

4.2.4 Projected Water Use
Demand projections by use sector (Table 4-2, 4-3) were estimated over the planning horizon using the following methods:

Method for Volume Projections
Residential Water projections (2025-2050) are based on the California Department of Finance projected population growth rates.

Commercial
Institutional
Water projections (2025-2050) are based on the California Department of Finance projected population growth rates.

Industrial Water projections (2025-2050) are based on the California Department of Finance projected population growth rates.

Prison Water projections (2025-2050) are based on the California Department of Finance projected population growth rates.

Distribution
System
Loss
Water loss projections (2025-2050) are based on the water loss rate for 2025

4.2.5 Lower-Income Households
Low-income and very low-income households have an income less than 80% of the median household income. According to the Crescent City Housing Element, 2023, 27% of the households are classified as low, very low-income, and extremely lowincome. Water use projections include projected water use for single-family and multi
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4.2.6 Climate Change Considerations
Climate change was recently evaluated in a report titled “Crescent City Climate Change Readiness Study” prepared by Kennedy Jenks (Kennedy Jenks, March 29, 2021).

Based on the results of the climate risk evaluation calculations (Kennedy Jenks, March 29, 2021) the City is most at risk for:
• Increases in annual average precipitation;
• Flooding;
• Storm surge due to climate change; and
• Extreme precipitation events.

Climate change was evaluated and considered. The impacts of climate change on water demand would primarily be the result of gains or losses in population. There may be a shifting, or loss of population as a result of the immediate effects of climate change. Coastal population (demand) could increase as “climate refugees” seek more livable locations along the coast (cooler, less fire risk, water supply).

The water supply, and water infrastructure, could be impacted by several of the risks, or combination of risks, listed above.

4.3 Distribution System Water Loss
Requirement: Quantify, to the extent records are available, past and current water use, over the same five-year increments described in subdivision (a), and projected water use, identifying the uses among water use sectors, including, but not necessarily limited to, all of the following uses: (CWC 10631 (e)(1)) Distribution system water loss.

4.3.1 Previous Five Years Distribution System Losses
Crescent City has been utilizing the American Water Works Association (AWWA) water loss methodology annually since 2013 to evaluate distribution system losses.

Crescent City AWWA water loss audit for the calendar year 2025 is not due until January 1, 2027, and has not been performed yet. The result of the 2024 AWWA water loss audit indicates a real water loss of 148.03 million gallons, or 22% real loss. (Table 4-4).

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4.3.2 Progress Toward Meeting the Water Loss Performance Standard Pursuant to Water Code Section 10631(d)(3)(C), retail suppliers are required to provide data demonstrating whether the retail supplier met its State Water Board Water Loss Performance Standard in 23 CCR Section 980 et seq. for each applicable PWS.
2028 Real Water Loss Standard
per Service Connection per day
Real Loss Gallons Per Service
Connection per Day
(2024 Water Loss Audit)
23 108
2028 Apparent Water Loss
Standard per Service Connections
per Day
Apparent Water Loss Gallons
Per Unit per Day
(2024 Water Loss Audit)

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Suppliers serving economically Disadvantaged Communities (DACs) with smaller benefit-to-cost ratios for their water loss standard, as identified through the economic model, will have until 2031 to achieve their standard. The Crescent City is a DAC.

Crescent City needs to reduce real loss by 85 gallons per service connection per day by 2031. Crescent City has met their apparent loss standard 11.25 gallons per service connection per day.

By adjusting the 2024 connection count to include Pelican Bays 1,700 “equivalent connections”, the resulting real loss is reduced to 74 gallons / connection / day and apparent loss would be 9.9 gallons / connection / day.

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4.4 Submittal Tables
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5.0 SB X7-7 BASELINES, 2020 TARGETS, AND 2025 REPORTING Suppliers that only met the definition of an urban retail water supplier (as defined in Water Code Section 10608.12) after 2020 were not subject to SB X7-7 or UWMP requirements during the 2020 reporting cycle.

5.1 Reporting Requirements for Wholesale Suppliers
This section does not apply to Crescent City since they are a retail water supplier.

5.2 Reporting Requirements for Retail Suppliers
This section applies to retail service water agencies only.

5.2.1 Supplier was Not an Urban Retail Water Supplier in 2020 This section does not apply to the Crescent City since they were an urban retail water supplier in 2020.

5.2.2 Supplier Met 2020 Target in 2020
Crescent City's 2020 GPCD target was 116 GPCD. Crescent City's 2020 GPCD was actually 112 GPCD. Crescent City has achieved compliance with daily per-capita water use for 2020. Crescent City met their 2020 target in 2020 as reported in their 2020 UWMP.

5.2.3 Supplier Did Not Meet 2020 Target in 2020—No Change to Service Area This section does not apply to the Crescent City since they met their 2020 target in 2020 as reported in their 2020 UWMP.

5.2.4 Supplier Did Not Meet 2020 Target—Change to Service Area Since 2020 This section does not apply to Crescent City since they met their 2020 target in 2020 as reported in their 2020 UWMP.

5.2.5 Types of Changes to Service Area Since 2020
This section does not apply to Crescent City, since it has not merged with another water system, or acquired a portion of another’s service area between 2020 and 2025.

5.2.6 Funding Eligibility
Since the Crescent City achieved its 2020 Target, Crescent City is eligible to receive a water grant or loan from the State of California.

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5.3 Submittal Tables
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6.0 NORMAL-YEAR WATER SUPPLY CHARACTERIZATION
Crescent City relies on a single water source, the Smith River (underflow). Crescent City performed an analysis of annual precipitation totals from the nearest weather station located within the Smith River watershed, with a continuous historical record 1941-2026, (Gasquet, California). Below is a graph showing the normal year, annual total precipitation (inches), single driest year, and driest 5-year period.

A summary of the analysis is provided in the table below:

Type of Year(s) Year(s)
Gasquet
Annual Total
Precipitation
(inches) % Normal
Normal Year 2003 92 100%
Single Driest Year 2013 46 50%
Driest Five Years 1987-1991 65.7 76%
The chart below shows annual minimum daily discharge of the Smith River, normal minimum daily discharge of the Smith River, and the lowest 5-year minimum annual discharge.

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Type of Year(s) Year(s)
Smith River
Minimum Annual
Daily Discharge
(cfs) % Normal MGY
Normal Year
Annual Minimum
Daily Discharge
2019 227 100% 53,655
Lowest Annual
Minimum Daily
Discharge
2021 158 70% 37,230
Normal 5-Year
Average Minimum
Daily Discharge
2010 226 100% 53,290
Lowest Five Year
Average Minimum
Daily Discharge
2018-2022 201 87% 47,450

6.1 Water Supply Analysis Overview
This Section describes and quantifies the current and projected sources of water available to the agency including supplies from other agencies, surface water, groundwater, recycled water, desalinated water, transfers and exchanges, and any other source water the supplier considers part of its supply portfolio.

The City of Crescent City's only existing water source is provided by groundwater from the Smith River underflow associated with the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. The Smith River provides an abundant supply of high-quality fresh water. The drainage basin of the Smith River, which covers about 700 square miles, produces runoff of approximately 2.9 million AFY (approximately 944,265 MGY), making it the highest water-producing drainage in California based on runoff per square mile. In the planning period there are no plans to acquire water from any wholesalers or other sources.

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The City of Crescent City currently extracts water from the Smith River (underflow) under the City of Crescent City Water Resources Control Board water rights permit # 11475, and under the California Department of Corrections (CDC) Water Resources Control Board water rights permit # 20210 for Pelican Bay State Prison. Both permits have the same point of diversion.

The place of use for the CDC permit appears to be contained within the place of use for the City of Crescent City Permit. A summary of the permit limits for pumping rate and total annual production is included in the table below.

Maximum Permitted Pumping Rate
Entity
Permit
Number
Cubic Feet per
Second Million Gallons /Day
City of Crescent
City 11475 9.8 6.3
State Department of
Corrections 20210 3 1.9
Total 12.80
cubic feet per second

8.2 MGD
(2,993 MGY)
Maximum Permitted Annual Production
Entity
Permit
Number Acre Feet / Year
Million Gallons
/Year
City of Crescent
City 11475 2,600 847
State Department of
Corrections 20210 1,066 347
Total 3,666 1,194
Currently the City of Crescent City has water rights to divert a combined maximum 8.2 MGD and maximum 1,194 MGY from the Smith River.

6.1.1 Specific Analysis Applicable to All Water Supply Sources Crescent City has a single source of drinking water, the Smith River. The specific analysis conducted to verify water supply to meet demand during a normal year, single driest year, and 5 driest years is presented in Section 7 of this UWMP.

6.1.2 Special Considerations
Within the planning period, regulatory changes, including re-evaluation of water rights is not anticipated.

6.1.3 Climate Change Effects
Based on the results of the climate risk evaluation calculations (Kennedy Jenks, March 29, 2021) the City is most at risk for increases in precipitation, flooding, and storm surge due to climate change. Extreme precipitation events, increases in annual average precipitation, and more intense storm surge increases in precipitation, flooding, and storm surge are due to climate change.

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Climate change was evaluated and considered. The impacts of climate change on water demand would primarily be driven by gains or losses in population. There may be a shifting, or loss of population as a result of the immediate effects of climate change. Coastal population could increase as “climate refugees” seek more livable locations along the coast (cooler, less fire risk, abundant water supply).

The water supply, and water infrastructure, could be impacted by several of the risks, or combination of risks, listed above.

6.1.4 Regulatory Conditions and Project Development
There are no foreseeable regulatory conditions that would impact the availability of water used by Crescent City. The only project at this time is the evaluation of a potential groundwater well on a property owned by the City, between the Ranney Well and City limits.

6.1.5 Other Locally Applicable Criteria
There are no other locally applicable criteria related to water supply during a normal year.

6.1.6 Wholesale and Retail Suppliers Coordination
Crescent City is a water retailer. There are no water wholesalers in the region.

6.2 Water Supply Characterization
The following section describes the Crescent City’s water Supply.

6.2.1 Purchased or Imported Water
The City of Crescent City does not purchase or import water. Within the planning horizon there is no intent to utilize purchased or imported water.

6.2.2 Ground Water
The City of Crescent City's only water source is provided by groundwater from the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. The Smith River provides an abundant supply of high-quality fresh water. The drainage basin of the Smith River, which covers approximately 700 square miles, produces runoff of approximately 2.9 million AFY (approximately 944,265 MGY), making it the highest water-producing drainage in California based on runoff per square mile.

Crescent City’s drinking water is acquired from groundwater (underflow). Water is supplied to the City from the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin via a well point type structure known and patented as a "Ranney Well." Groundwater is being produced from the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin (Figure 6). The geology of the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin is shown on Figure 7. The general location of the Crescent City Ranney Well is shown on Figures 5 and 6.

The following sections describing the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin are from California's Groundwater Bulletin 118, 2003 update, (State of California, Department of Water Resources, 2003).

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6.2.2.1 Basin Description
The Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin is located in Del Norte County in the extreme northwest corner of California. The plain is irregular in shape narrowing to the south against the steep scarp of the faulted mountain headland. The major structural feature in the basin is the inferred Del Norte fault which constitutes the basin boundary to the north and east (USBR 1960).

The north end of the plain narrows at the mouth of the Smith River to a marine terrace less than one mile wide that continues into Oregon (DWR 1987). The basin is bounded to the north, east, and south by Mesozoic Franciscan Formation (Strand 1963).

The Smith River crosses the northern portion of the plain near the Town of Smith River and is the major watercourse responsible for most of the floodplain deposits in the area. Lake Earl and Talawa are shallow brackish lakes in the west central part of the plain and form collection basins for runoff from several minor streams (Back 1957). Annual precipitation in the basin ranges from 65- to 77-inches, increasing to the northeast.

Hydrogeologic Information
The Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin is an emerged low-relief marine terrace. The surface of the plain is comprised of sand dunes, floodplain deposits, unconsolidated river terrace deposits, and surface exposures of the marine Battery Formation. Underlying the terrace deposits are the marine Battery Formation and the St. George Formation. Beneath the St. George Formation is basement rock of the Jurassic-Cretaceous Franciscan Complex.

Water-Bearing Formations
Quaternary alluvial fan, flood-plain, terrace, and Battery Formation deposits from the primary water-bearing formations in the basin. The St. George Formation and basement rock of the Franciscan formation yield very little water to wells.

Holocene Floodplain Deposits. Floodplain deposits underlie the present floodplain of the Smith River and its tributaries. These deposits rest on either basement rock or the Battery Formation and overlie river terrace deposits along the edge of the floodplain. The overlying deposits consist of unconsolidated clay, sand, and gravel and range in thickness from about 40-to 95-feet. The deposits are commonly covered with a shallow, silty soil 2- to 3- feet in thickness. The sands and gravels are well-rounded and poorly sorted.

Boulders and cobbles are common where the Smith River flows out of the mountains. As the floodplain spreads west over the plain, the alluvial deposits generally become finer (DWR 1987). The deposits contain large amounts of unconfined water and are the most productive aquifers in the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. Most of the irrigation wells in the area obtain water from this zone. Yields to wells range from about 200- to 800-gpm and permeabilities range from about 6,000- to 10,000-gpd per square foot (DWR 1987).

Pleistocene Terrace Deposits. The Pleistocene age terrace deposits are associated with Smith River and Rowdy Creek and serve as the major aquifer DRAFT
in the northern part of the basin and also provide recharge to adjacent 2025 Urban Water Management Plan 27 June 2026
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formations. These deposits contain poorly-sorted silt, sand, and gravel and include some clay - predominantly in the upper portion. Generally, these deposits become coarser with depth and large boulders are often encountered at the base. Thickness of the deposits generally range from about 30- to 55- feet, but may exceed 75 feet in the area south of the community of Smith River (DWR 1987). These deposits are underlain by basement rocks, but locally they may rest on the Battery or St. George Formations. The river terrace deposits are moderate to highly permeable, with permeabilities ranging from 1,000- to 2,000-gpd per square foot (DWR 1987). Generally, well yields are not high due to the limited saturated thickness. Several irrigation wells in the Fort Dick and Rowdy Creek areas yield 140- to 400- gpm. Some of the smaller terraces may not have enough storage-carryover capabilities to provide adequate water supplies throughout the summer and fall months because of limited areal extents.

Groundwater Storage Capacity. Storage capacity in the basin is estimated to be 99,350 acre-feet based a surface area of 31,070 acres, a depth interval of 10- to 35-feet below ground surface, and an average specific yield of 12.8 percent (Back 1957)..

Groundwater Budget (Type B)
Estimates of groundwater extraction are based on a survey conducted by the California Department of Water Resources in 1996. The survey included land use and sources of water. Estimates of groundwater extraction for agricultural and municipal/industrial uses are 12,000 and 990 acre-feet respectively. Deep percolation from applied water is estimated to be 3,100 acre-feet.

Characterization. Groundwater in the basin consists of magnesium bicarbonate and magnesium-sodium bicarbonate type waters. Increasing proportions of sodium and chloride are found in waters from the southern half of the basin (Back 1957). Total dissolved solids (TDS) range from 50-to 500- mg/L, averaging 100 mg/L (DWR unpublished data).

Impairments. High levels of iron are found in some areas. Locally high chloride, calcium, and TDS are also found.

A Groundwater Management Plan has not been developed for the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. The groundwater basin is ranked as a very low priority.

Overdraft is the condition of a groundwater basin in which the amount of water withdrawn by pumping over the long term exceeds the amount of water that recharges the basin. Overdraft is characterized by groundwater levels that decline over a period of years and never fully recover, even in wet years.

The Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin has not been identified as being overdrafted based on extraction rates, cone of depression, recharge rate, and water surface elevation. The basin has not been identified as likely to become DRAFT
overdrafted if present management conditions continue.
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The volume of groundwater pumped from 2020 through 2025 is included in Table 6-1. During 2020-2025 there were no limitations or challenges obtaining groundwater.

6.2.2.2 Basin Management Information
A Groundwater Management Plan has not been developed for the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. The groundwater basin is ranked as a very low priority.

6.2.2.3 Other Considerations
The number and physical capacity of wells, and condition of the water distribution system are considerations beyond the availability of water from the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin.

6.2.2.4 Past Five Years Groundwater Pumping
The volume of groundwater produced in the past five years is shown on the graph below:

6.2.3 Stormwater
Crescent City does not currently or plan to intentionally divert stormwater for beneficial reuse.

6.2.4 Wastewater and Recycled Water
The City WWTF was designed to be capable of producing tertiary-treated recycled water in compliance with Water Recycling Criteria in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The City has not acquired the necessary permits and approval to use the recycled water. The City does not intend to utilize recycled water in the planning period.

The City owns and operates a wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal facility with a design average dry weather treatment capacity of 1.86 MGD for treating DRAFT
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domestic, commercial, and industrial wastewater. The collection system service area includes the City of Crescent City and the County Service Area (Figure 2), which includes a total population of 20,365 (2020). Treatment processes at the Crescent City WWTF consist of headworks, including a mechanically cleaned screen, a Parshall flume, and a wet well; primary treatment, including two grit removal tanks and two clarifiers; and secondary treatment. Secondary treatment is provided by operating rotating biological contactors and a membrane bioreactor in parallel. Flows from the rotating biological contactors and any flow from the membrane bioreactor that is not used for recycled water use are commingled, disinfected and dechlorinated. Flow from the membrane bioreactor that can be used for recycled water is disinfected with ultraviolet (UV) light.

Solids handling consists of gravity thickening of primary sludge, rotary drum thickening of secondary sludge, and anaerobic digestion of thickened sludge. Dewatered solids are placed in a landfill.

The amount of wastewater collected in 2025 in the Crescent City system was approximately 535 million gallons. Wastewater flow is metered.

Although the Crescent City Wastewater Treatment Facility is capable of generating recycled water, use of recycled water is not currently permitted. No plans exist to acquire the necessary permits and approvals to generate and use recycled water in the planning horizon.

6.2.4.1 Recycled Water Coordination
The City WWTF was designed to produce tertiary-treated recycled water in compliance with Water Recycling Criteria in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The City has not acquired the necessary permits and approval to use the recycled water. The City does not intend to utilize recycled water in the planning period.

6.2.4.2 Wastewater Collection, Treatment, and Disposal

6.2.4.2.1 Wastewater Collected Within the Service Area
The City owns and operates a wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal facility with a design average dry weather treatment capacity of 1.86 MGD for treating domestic, commercial, and industrial wastewater. The collection system service area includes the City of Crescent City and the County Service Area (Figure 2), which includes a total population of 20,365 (2020).

6.2.4.2.2 Wastewater Treatment and Discharge
Treatment processes at the Crescent City WWTF consist of headworks, including a mechanically cleaned screen, a Parshall flume, and a wet well; primary treatment, including two grit removal tanks and two clarifiers; and secondary treatment. Secondary treatment is provided by operating rotating biological contactors and a membrane bioreactor in parallel. Flows from the rotating biological contactors and any flow from the membrane bioreactor that is not used for recycled DRAFT
water are commingled, disinfected and dechlorinated. Flow from the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan 30 June 2026
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membrane bioreactor that can be used for recycled water is UV disinfected.

6.2.4.3 Recycled Water System Description
The City WWTF was designed to produce tertiary-treated recycled water utilizing UV technology in compliance with Water Recycling Criteria in Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. The City has not acquired the necessary permits and approval to use the recycled water.

6.2.4.4 Current, Potential, and Projected Recycled Water Uses The City does not intend to utilize recycled water in the planning period.

6.2.4.4.1 Potential Recycled Water Use
The City does not intend to utilize recycled water in the planning period.

6.2.4.4.2 Projected Recycled Water Use
The City does not intend to utilize recycled water in the planning period.

6.2.4.5 Actions to Encourage and Optimize Future Recycled Water Use The City does not intend to utilize recycled water in the planning period.

6.2.5 Desalinated Water Opportunities
Due to the abundant supply of water, Crescent City is not currently using or considering the use of desalinated water.

6.2.6 Water Exchanges or Transfers
This section describes any existing, planned, or potential future water exchanges or transfers.

6.2.6.1 Exchanges
Due to the abundant supply of water, Crescent City is not currently using or considering exchanges or transfers of water. There are no other water agencies in the nearby region.

6.2.6.2 Transfers
Due to the abundant supply of water, Crescent City is not currently using or considering exchanges or transfers of water. There are no other water agencies in the region.

6.2.6.3 Emergency Interties
Crescent City does not have emergency water interties. There are no other water agencies in the region.

6.2.7 Supply From Storage
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6.2.8 Other
Due to the abundant supply Crescent City does not need to investigate other water sources.

6.2.9 Future Water Projects
Crescent City currently has funding to evaluate a potential groundwater well on Cityowned property between the Ranney Well and Crescent City.

6.3 Energy Use
Energy costs were not readily available during the preparation of this plan.

6.4 Submittal Tables
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7.0 WATER SERVICE RELIABILITY AND DROUGHT RISK ASSESSMENT This Section describes the reliability of Crescent City’s water supply and projects the reliability out 20 years. This description will be provided for normal, single dry years and multiple dry years.

Assessing water service reliability is the fundamental purpose for preparing a UWMP.

Water service reliability reflects the City’s ability to meet the water needs of its customers, including end-use customers and retail suppliers, with water supplies under varying conditions. The City’s UWMP will consider the reliability of meeting customer water use by analyzing plausible hydrological variability, regulatory variability, climate conditions, and other factors that affect a supplier’s water supply and its customer’s water uses.

7.1 Constraints on Water Sources Considerations
Potential constraints on the City’s water source includes, legal, environmental, and climate factors. Crescent City and the State Department of Corrections (Pelican Bay Prison) have separate water rights permits for Smith River underflow. Crescent City pumps groundwater for both groundwater permits.

Groundwater production is limited by combined water rights permits which limits annual production to 1,194 MGY.

The highest projected demand in the next 20 years occurs in 2030 (805 MGY), which is well within the limits of the combined water rights permits. Foreseeable legal constraints are not considered a limitation within the 25-year planning period. Currently and within the planning period the only foreseeable environmental issues that could limit the City’s water supply would be a chemical or fuel spill within the watershed which has
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Constraints due to climate change are discussed in Section 4.2.6. As a result of this evaluation, it is concluded that climate change will affect the water supply and water demand very little in this area. Based on the results of the climate risk evaluation calculations (Kennedy Jenks, March 29, 2021) the City is most at risk for increases in precipitation, flooding, and storm surge due to climate change. Extreme precipitation events, increases in annual average precipitation, and more intense storm surge are the predicted results of climate change.

Climate change was evaluated and considered. The impacts of climate change on water demand would primarily be the result of gains or losses in population. There may be a shifting, or loss of population as a result of the immediate local effects of climate change. Coastal populations could increase as “climate refugees” seek more livable locations along the coast (cooler, less fire risk, water supply). The water supply, and water infrastructure, could be impacted by several of the risks, or combination of risks, listed above.

Future constraints on water supplies, due to declining groundwater levels is not anticipated based on the historic response (lack of response) of groundwater levels to changes in precipitation as shown later in this section.

Constraints on water supply due to sea level rise (SLR) is unlikely. According to (Kennedy Jenks, 2021): “Projections of sea-level rise (SLR) in the North Coast region are complicated by different rates of vertical land motion and large interseismic tectonic motions along the southern Cascadia subduction zone. Crescent City is uplifting faster than long-term global SLR due to this interseismic uplift, resulting in a negative, or decreasing local SLR rate (North Coast Fourth Assessment, 2018).

Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services. Relative Sea Level Trend, 9419750 Crescent City, California. Accessed February 9, 2021 via
https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/sltrends/sltrends_station.shtml?id=9419750 DRAFT
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Due to projected increases in annual precipitation (Kennedy Jenks, 2021), constraints of water supply due to decreased snowpack is unlikely.

Current water management strategies include:
• Identification and correction of water loss causes;
• Continued monitoring of precipitation, Smith River discharge, and groundwater elevations in the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin; and • Investigation of potential groundwater well on City owned property located between the Ranney Well and Crescent City.

7.2 Water Service Reliability Assessment
Crescent City relies on groundwater from-City owned groundwater wells in the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. Groundwater production is limited by water rights permits held by the City and by State Department of Corrections which limits the combined annual production to 1,194 MGY. Projected water production demand in 2045 is 786 MGY which is well within the limits of the water rights permit. Analysis of precipitation and Smith River flow data indicate that climatic variations (wet and dry years) affect the monthly average flow during the wet season but have little or no effect on dry weather flows. Based on historic conditions, the groundwater source for Crescent City will likely be available at a consistent level over the 20-year planning period.

7.2.1 WSRA Year-Type Characterization
There are three year-types for which the Water Supply Reliability Analysis (WSRA) must be conducted. To conduct this assessment, Suppliers will need to identify what these year-types are and their associated effects on water supplies for their local conditions.

7.2.1.1 Types of Years
The three year-types (normal year, single dry year, and five consecutive-year drought) that must be included in the WSRA are described below:
 Normal Year. This condition represents the water supplies a supplier considers available during normal conditions. This could be a single year or averaged range of years that most closely represents the average water supply available to the Supplier.

In this Guidebook, DWR uses the terms “average” and “normal” interchangeably when addressing the water-year type. Below are charts of annual precipitation trends, and Smith River discharge trends.

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Gasquet Precipitaion Statistics (1941 – 2026)
Type of Year Year(s)
Annual
Precipitation
(inches)
Percent of
Normal
Normal Year 2003 92.24 100%
Single Driest Year 2013 46.50 50%
5-Driest Years 1987 - 1991 69.51 76%
The historic low Smith River discharge (158 cfs) that occurred in 2021, was the culmination of the three previous years of below normal and decreasing annual precipitation. The single driest year (2013) had a limited impact on Smith River discharge due to the short duration of the event preceded and followed
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by years with above normal precipitation.
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Smith River Discharge Statistics (1941 – 2026)
Type of Year Year(s)
Annual
Minimum
Daily
Discharge
(cfs)
Percent of
Normal
Normal Year 2018 227 cfs 100%
Single Minimum
Annual Daily
Discharger
2021 158 cfs 70%
5-Years With
Lowest Average
Minimum Daily
Discharge
2018 – 2022 202 cfs 89%
 Single Dry Year. Suppliers can analyze trends and extremes to identify the relevant single dry year used for their analysis. In general, this will likely be the year that represents the lowest water supply available to the supplier.

The single driest year (Gasquet, CA) was 2013 (46.5 inches) which is (50% of normal).

The year with the lowest Smith River discharge was 2021 (158 cfs) which is (70%) normal.
 Five-Consecutive-Year Drought. There are no specifications for characterizing the WSRA five-consecutive-year drought in the Water Code.

Five consecutive years of lowest average precipitation was from 1987 to 1991. Five consecutive years when the Smith River had the lowest average discharge was 2018 to 2022.

7.2.1.2 Sources for Water Data
Data sources used for the WSRA include:
 Precipitation records Gasquet, CA (1944-2025) (Gasquet, CA), https://scacis.rccacis.org/;  Smith River Discharge (1941-2026), USGS-11480390; and  Groundwater observations of CASGEM wells.

The Smith River is sustained by groundwater during periods of low precipitation which buffers the impact of dry periods. The record highest production rate for Crescent City was 980 MGY. The lowest annual minimum daily Smith River discharge was 158 cubic feet per second (37,230 MGY). The City's highest recorded demand volume (980 MGY)
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7.2.2 WSRA Supply and Demand Comparison
The Crescent City water supply is reliable and consistent as indicated in the above section. Demand projections, based on projected population growth, will be met with the supply for all of the drought scenarios as indicated in Tables 7-1, 7-2, 7-3, and 7-

4. Supply projections are conservatively modeled as the water rights combined permit limit (1,194 MGY) which is only 3% of the lowest historical discharge 158 cfs (37,230 MGY). The city’s highest projected demand is 830 MGY which is 70% of the water rights permit limit and

7.2.2.1 Normal Years
Demand projections, based on projected population growth, will be met with the supply for the normal year scenario as indicated in Table 7-2. The average precipitation for Gasquet occurred in 2003 with a total of 92.24 inches. Normal Smith River discharge is 227 cfs which occurred in 2018.

During the normal year for precipitation (2003), and the normal year for Smith River discharge (2018), demand was met by supply.

7.2.2.2 Single Dry Year
The single driest year (Gasquet, CA) was 46.5 inches in 2013 which is 50% of normal. The year with the lowest Smith River discharge was 2021 with a minimum daily discharge of 158 cfs, (37,230 MGY). The City’s highest projected demand volume is 830 MGY (2025), which is only 2.2% of the minimum Smith River discharge.

7.2.2.3 Five Consecutive Dry Years
The 5-driest years recorded at Gasquet was the period 1987–1991 with precipitation being 70% of normal. The 5-years with lowest average minimum daily discharge was the period 2018–2022 which was 89% of normal discharge.

7.2.3 WSRA Description of Management Tools and Options
Requirement: An urban water supplier shall describe in the plan water management tools and options used by that entity that will maximize resources and minimize the need to import water from other regions.

Current water management strategies include:
• Identification and correction of water loss causes; and • Continued monitoring of precipitation, Smith River discharge, and groundwater elevations in the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin.

7.3 Drought Risk Assessment
The Drought Risk Assessment (DRA) is contained in the Crescent City Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP) (Appendix
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7.3.1 DRA Data, Methods, and Basis for Water Shortage Conditions The primary sources of data used in the DRA include:
• Crescent City performed an analysis of annual precipitation totals from the nearest weather station with a continuous historic record 1949-2025, (Gasquet, California);
• USGS Gauging Station data Smith River (USGS gauging station 11532500); and
• Groundwater elevation from wells in the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin (data from CASGEM wells).

The method that was used for the DRA was initiated by reviewing the historical precipitation records for the area and determination of the annual total precipitation for the area. The annual total precipitation was analyzed to determine the average precipitation for the “normal year”. The year with the least precipitation was designated as the “single driest year”. The annual total precipitation data was also analyzed to determine the 5-year interval with the lowest average precipitation, “driest 5 years” as shown below:

Type of Year Year(s)
Annual Precipitation
(inches)
Percent of
Normal
Normal Year 2003 92.24 100%
Single Driest
Year 2013 46.50 50%
5-Driest Years 1987 - 1991 69.51 76%
The Smith River discharge was then reviewed to determine the year with the lowest minimum discharge, and the 5 years with lowest average discharge volume.

Type of Year Year(s)
Annual Minimum Daily
Discharge (cfs)
Percent of
Normal
Normal Year 2018 227 cfs 100%
Single Minimum
Annual Daily
Discharger
2021 158 cfs 70%
5-Years With
Lowest Average
Minimum Daily
Discharge
2018 – 2022 202 cfs 89%
The historic low Smith River discharge (158 cfs) that occurred in 2021, was the culmination of the three previous years of below normal and decreasing annual precipitation.

Analysis of Gasquet monthly precipitation and Smith River monthly discharge is shown in the
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charts below for the period 2020 to 2026.
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Restricting the range and domain of the data set above is shown in the scatter plot below:
0 2
4 6
8 10
0 100 200 300 400 500
2020-2026 Monthly Precipitaion Totla Gasquet (inches) with Smith River Monthly Minium Discharge (cfs)
Smith River Discharge (cfs)
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Precipitation (inches)
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The scatter plot above shows that even during periods of low, and no monthly precipitation, the Smith River minimum monthly flows have stayed above 150 cfs (37,230 MGY).

The final step was to evaluate groundwater elevations in several wells that have been monitored within the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin to see the effect of the single driest year and the driest 5 years on groundwater elevations.

The following pages include maps showing the location of the wells in the Smith River Groundwater Basin and graphs showing precipitation and the elevation of wet season and dry season changes through time.

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The plots on the previous pages indicate the following:
• Groundwater elevations in several wells were relatively stable throughout the time of available data (1950’s to 2025).
• The single driest and multiple driest 5 years on record did not have an impact on the dry weather groundwater elevations. Dry season groundwater elevations appear to be relatively stable throughout the time interval covered by the available data.

Conclusions regarding water source reliability include:
• Historic periods of dry weather do not appear to have significantly impacted the seasonally low Smith River discharge volumes due to recharge from the surrounding Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin;
• Historic periods of dry weather do not appear to have had an impact on seasonally low groundwater elevations in the Smith River Plain Groundwater basin: and • The Crescent City water supply is not currently experiencing the impact of drought and has been reliable even during periods of record low precipitation.

Reliability of the water supply is reflected in Tables 7-1, 7-2, 7-3, and 7-4.

7.3.2 DRA Individual Water Source Reliability
The DRA was performed for the single source of water used by Crescent City, groundwater from the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin.

7.3.3 DRA Total Water Supply and Use Comparison
The DRA total water supply and demand are compared and are presented in tables 7- 1 through 7.5 These tables indicate that the Crescent City water supply is not currently experiencing the impact of drought and has been reliable even during periods of record low precipitation.

Based on historic trends of precipitation and Smith River discharge, It is likely that the Crescent City water supply will be reliable even during periods of record low precipitation (single driest year and driest 5 years) into the future for the 20-year planning period.

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7.4 Submittal Tables
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8.0 WATER SHORTAGE CONTINGENCY PLAN
This Section describes Crescent City’s staged plan for dealing with water shortages, including a catastrophic supply interruption.

The Crescent City Water Shortage Contingency Plan, 2021 (Appendix C), contains the following prescriptive elements:
• Key attributes of its Water Supply Reliability Analysis conducted pursuant to Water Code Section 10635. [Water Code Section 10632(a)(1)];
• Four water shortage levels correspond six standard water shortage levels to progressive ranges of up to 10-, 20-, 30-, 40-, and 50-percent shortages and greater than 50-percent shortage. [Water Code Section 10632 (a)(3)(A)]; • Locally appropriate “shortage response actions” for each shortage level, with a corresponding estimate of the extent the action will address the gap between supplies and demands. [Water Code Section 10632 (a)(4)];
• Procedures for conducting an annual water supply and demand assessment with prescribed elements. Under Water Code Section 10632.1, urban water suppliers are required to submit, by July 1 of each year, beginning in the year following adoption of the 2020 UWMP, an annual water shortage assessment report to DWR. [Water Code Section 10632 (a)(2)];
• Communication protocols and procedures to inform customers, the public, and government entities of any current or predicted water shortages and associated response actions. [Water Code Section 10632 (a)(5)];
• Monitoring and reporting procedures to ensure appropriate data is collected to monitor customer compliance and to respond to any state reporting requirements. [Water Code Section 10632(a)(9)]; and
• A re-evaluation and improvement process to assess the functionality of its WSCP and to make appropriate adjustments as may be warranted. [Water Code Section 10632(a)(10)].

8.1 Water Supply Reliability Analysis
Crescent City relies on groundwater from City-owned groundwater wells in the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. Groundwater production is limited by City and State Department of Corrections water rights permits, which combined limits annual production to 1,194 MGY.

Projected water production demand in 2045 is 780.7 MGY which is well within the limits of the water rights permits. Analysis of precipitation and Smith River flow data indicate that climatic variations (wet and dry years) affect the monthly average flow during the wet season but have little or no effect on dry weather flows. Based on the above information, the groundwater source for Crescent City is available at a consistent level over the 20-year planning period.

8.2 Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment Procedures Annually the City will perform a Water Supply and Demand Assessment as described in the water shortage contingency plan and described in the sections below. Crescent City will prepare Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessments utilizing the following data:
• Projected current year unconstrained demand;
• Projected current year available supply
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• Existing infrastructure capabilities and plausible constraints.

8.2.1 Decision-Making Process
The City's Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment will follow the following approximate schedule:
• Second week of May – Data collection, precipitation data, Smith River discharge data, and groundwater elevation data;
• Third week of May – Data evaluation. Determine current year unconstrained demand, current year available supply, identify existing infrastructure capabilities and plausible constraints, and generate the Draft-Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment;
• Fourth week of May – Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment reviewed by the Director of Public Works and the City Manager and finalized; • First week in June – Notice of public meeting;
• Third week in June – Report presented to the City Council; and • July 1 - Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment to the Department of Water Resources.

8.2.2 Data and Methodologies
Crescent City will prepare Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessments utilizing the following data:
• Precipitation data from the Gasquet Ranger Station (GAS); • Discharge data from the Smith River (USGS gauging station 11532500); • Current conditions for USGS 11532500 SMITH R NR CRESCENT CITY CA); • Groundwater elevation data from CASGEM wells within the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin;
• Projected current year unconstrained demand; and
• Projected current year available supply.

The above data will be evaluated with similar methodologies and added to the analysis of water supply reliability contained in Section 2 of this plan. A finer time increment of analysis may be employed in the methodologies.

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8.3 Shortage Response Actions
Crescent City's Water Shortage Contingency Plan consists of the following stages of rationing and demand reduction goals:

A graphic correlation between the shortage level (stages) contained in this WSCP and the 2020 WSCP mandated shortage levels is shown below:

8.4 Shortage Response Actions

8.4.1 Supply Augmentation
Not in response to any current or future water shortage, the Crescent City has funding to evaluate a potential new groundwater well on City-owned property between the Ranney Well
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8.4.2 Demand Reduction
Over the past five years Crescent City has focused water conservation efforts on public education and outreach and programs to assess and manage distribution system real loss.

Public Education and Outreach - In the past five years Crescent City has conducted public education and outreach including:
• Public announcements and discussions at public meetings; • Flyers are available at City Hall, which promote water conservation; • The City website has a link to water conservations tips and tools; • Annual conservation message is placed in the Consumer Confidence Report; and
• Each water user has access to a website that reports their monthly water use for the past 12 months.

Programs to Assess and Manage Distribution System Real Loss – Crescent City has completed AWWA Water Loss Audits for calendar years 2013 through 2024. Based on results of the audits, Crescent City has focused efforts on leak repair. Crescent City has also been working continuously with the water billing software and software provider to be able to generate meaningful reliable monthly water distribution volumes.

8.4.3 Operational Changes
Crescent City has meters on all services and sources. Due to the water distribution system’s age and the areas seismic activitiy, the City routinely monitors for leaks, conducts distribution system repair and meter calibration activities. During a stage 3 water shortage emergency, the City will discontinue the sales of bulk water and will eliminate street sweeping with water.

Crescent City has completed AWWA Water Loss Audits up to calendar year 2024 and is committed to annual water loss audits. Crescent City will measure the effectiveness of this DMM by ongoing monitoring of system loss.

8.4.4 Additional Mandatory Restrictions
Additional mandatory restrictions included in the City’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan are included below:

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Fines and penalties and enforcement are established in the Crescent City Municipal Code in Chapter 13.17.040 through 13.17.080 “Water Conservation”. Enforcement actions include:
• Warnings, verbal and written (13.17.040);
• Installation of a flow-restricting device (13.17.040); • Water service surcharge (13.17.050); and
• Termination of service (13.17.060).

8.4.5 Emergency Response Plan
The California Safe Drinking Water Act mandates in Section 4029 that every public water system includes a Disaster Response Plan as part of their Emergency Notification Plan. This plan will outline the steps to be taken to maintain or return water service to Crescent CIty customers after a major disaster. Crescent City has an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) that was updated in September 2024 which describes the actions the City will take during a catastrophic interruption of water supplies.

8.4.6 Seismic Risk Assessment and Mitigation Plan
The 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan, under the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-390) addresses seismic risk and is included as Appendix D. In volume 2 of the Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan contains specific seismic mitigation projects for the Crescent City Water System including:
• Seismic retrofitting for specific water tanks;
• Retrofit water main;
• Ordinance improvements;
• Purchase mobile equipment;
• Well retrofit;
• Installation of Hydro-Pneumatic Tank; and
• Purchase of Portable Water Equipment.

8.4.7 Shortage Response Action Effectiveness
Each shortage response action identified in the WSCP corresponds to an estimate of the extent to which that action will reduce the gap between supplies and uses DRAFT
.
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The above table includes an estimate of the extent to which that action will reduce the gap between supplies and uses. Specific prohibitions, and requirements within each stage of water shortage are detailed in the Crescent City 2021 WSCP (Appendix C).

8.5 Communication Protocols
On an annual basis in the month of June, Public Works staff will perform an Annual Assessment of City water supplies, state regulatory requirements, notices, or orders, and determine if a water shortage emergency exists or is imminent within the Crescent City water service area.

The results of the Annual Assessment will be communicated to the Public Works Director and the City Manager. The City Manager will report the findings of the Annual Assessment to the City Council before the end of June. The City Manager may recommend a water shortage emergency resolution to the City Council if warranted.

If a water shortage emergency is declared, it will be communicated to the water customers, general public, interested parties, and local and regional government agencies utilizing any of the following methods:
• bill inserts;
• press releases;
• radio spots;
• social medial posts;
• and blog posts.

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8.6 Compliance and Enforcement
Crescent City has a Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP) (Appendix C) that governs their actions during a water shortage emergency and under various specific conditions authorized by Crescent City Municipal Code Section 13.17 (contained in Appendix E). The Water Shortage Contingency Plan provides a range of water use restrictions to reduce water consumption. Crescent City Municipal Code Section 13.17 provides enforcement authority and penalties for violation of the water use restrictions. Fines and penalties and enforcement are established in the Crescent City Municipal Code in Chapter 13.17.040 through 13.17.080 “Water Conservation”. Enforcement actions include:
• Warnings, verbal and written (13.17.040);
• Installation of a flow-restricting device (13.17.040); • Water service surcharge (13.17.050); and;
• Termination of service (13.17.060).

Crescent City’s Municipal Code Section 13.17 was designed to be flexible and able to be implemented in a wide range of water shortage situations. The Crescent City WSCP meets the 2020 UWMP requirements and contains the water shortage contingency levels and also contains demand reduction measures.

8.7 Legal Authorities

8.7.1 Legal Authorities
The legal authority for this Water Shortage Contingency Plan is contained in the Crescent City Municipal Code in amended Chapter 13.17.010 and 13.17.0158.7.2.

8.7.2 Proclamation of Local Emergency
Crescent City Municipal Code 13.17.026 “Determination of stage of action necessary” includes the authority and process for declaration of a water shortage emergency.

8.8 Financial Consequences of a Water Shortage Contingency Plan

8.8.1 Financial Impacts and Mitigation Action
During the implementation of the various water shortage emergency stages, there will be an impact on revenue and expenses for the City due to the anticipated demand reduction. Revenue from water sales will be reduced and expenses including electricity (pumping) and supplies (treatment chemicals). Financial results will be closely monitored during any Water Shortage Emergency to ensure revenue is adequate.

In the event revenues decrease, or are projected to decrease, to a level impacting utility operations, the following options will be considered:
• Use of reserve funds if funds can be reduced to a level which still complies with other existing financial covenants;
• Use of capital improvement funds by deferring capital improvement projects as long as the deferment of projects does not pose a threat to public health or safety; DRAFT
and/or
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 61 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services
• Implement excess use penalties.

8.8.2 Reporting Cost of Compliance With Excessive Water Use Prohibition During Drought Emergency
During the implementation of the various water shortage emergency stages, there will be an impact on revenue and expenses for the City due to the anticipated demand reduction. Revenue from water sales will be reduced and expenses including electricity (pumping) and supplies (treatment chemicals) will also be reduced.

Financial results will be closely monitored during any Water Shortage Emergency to ensure revenue is adequate.

In the event revenues decrease or are projected to decrease to a level impacting utility operations, the following options will be considered:
• Use of reserve funds if funds can be reduced to a level which still complies with other existing financial covenants;
• Use of capital improvement funds by deferring capital improvement projects, as long as the deferment of projects does not pose a threat to public health or safety; and/or
• Implement excess use penalties.

8.9 Monitoring and Reporting.

During a declared water shortage emergency, water production volumes will be reviewed monthly, including a calculation of Gallons Per Capita per Day (GPCD), and comparison to the same month of the year just prior to the declaration of a water shortage emergency.

8.10 Water Shortage Contingency Plan Refinement Procedures Crescent City’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan was developed in the 2021 UWMP and was reviewed during the preparation of the 2025 UWMP. Crescent City’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan (2021) is included in Appendix C. As part of the UWMP development process, (every 5 years) the Water Shortage Contingency Plan will be reviewed and updated as necessary.

8.11 Special Water Feature Distinction
Crescent City is not aware of any water features that use potable water without a recirculation system.

8.12 Plan Adoption, Submittal, Availability, and Amendment Procedures The 2025 UWMP (including the 2021Water Shortage Contingency Plan) was adopted by the City Council on June 22, 2026. Within 30 days after adoption of the 2025 UWMP, the City submitted an electronic, or hardcopy, of the adopted 2025 UWMP to the California State Library, and an electronic copy was provided to Bertsch Ocean View CSD, Church Tree CSD, Del Norte County, and Pelican Bay State Prison
DRAFT
.
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 62 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services

8.13 Submittal Tables
DRAFT
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 63 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services
DRAFT
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 64 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services

9.0 DEMAND MANAGEMENT MEASURE
This Section will describe Crescent City’s efforts to promote conservation and to reduce demand for their water supply and will specifically address several demand management measures (DMMs).

9.1 Demand Management Measures for Retail Suppliers

9.1.1 Implementation Over the Past Five Years
Over the past five years Crescent City has focused water conservation efforts on public education and outreach and programs to assess and manage distribution system real loss.

Programs to Assess and Manage Distribution System Real Loss – Crescent City has completed AWWA Water Loss Audits for calendar years 2013 through 2024 Based on results of the audits Crescent City has focused efforts on leak repair. Crescent City has also been working continuously with the water billing software and software provider to be able to generate meaningful reliable monthly water distribution volumes.

9.1.2 Implementation to Achieve Water-Use Targets
To maintain water conservation, Crescent City will continue to emphasize public education and outreach and programs to assess and manage distribution real loss.

9.1.3 Required Demand Management Measures
This Section will describe Crescent Cit’s efforts to promote conservation and to reduce demand on their water supply and will specifically address several demand management measures.

9.1.3.1 Water-Waste Prevention Ordinances
Crescent City Municipal Code Section 13.17 prohibits the waste of water. “No water furnished by the City may be wasted" (13.17.028).

9.1.3.2 Metering
All Crescent City customer sectors are metered including separate meters. All customers are on meters and are billed by volume used monthly.

9.1.3.3 Conservation Pricing
Crescent City’s water billing pricing structure consists of a service charge for DRAFT
water availability (base charge) and quantity use charges (consumption 2025 Urban Water Management Plan 65 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services
charge). There is no inclining use (tiered) charges associated with Crescent City’s pricing structure at this time. Crescent City has abundant water supplies and relies on water rate revenues to operate. Implementing conservation measures would reduce operating revenue (other than leak reduction).

9.1.3.4 Public Education and Outreach
Crescent City supports initiatives to inform the public about water conservation.

In the future, Crescent City will continue these efforts to raise public awareness of water conservation issues in a similar manner.

Crescent City has a link on its web page to promote water use awareness and water conservation. Annual Consumer Confidence Reports include information about water conservation. Water users have access to a web application that allows water users to review water use over the past 12 months which promotes awareness and water conservation.

9.1.3.5 Programs to Assess and Manage Distribution System Real Loss Crescent City has meters on all services and sources. Due to the water distribution system’s age and the areas seismic events, Crescent City routinely monitors for leaks, conducts distribution system repair and meter calibration activities. Totalizers connected to the Crescent City’s control system measure and record production rates, receiving rates, as well as delivery rates. These readings are taken continuously and are monitored at all times by Crescent City staff. Crescent City will measure the effectiveness of this DMM by ongoing monitoring of system loss.

Crescent City has completed AWWA Water Loss Audits since 2013 and is committed to annual water loss audits. As a result of the water loss audits, Crescent City will be reviewing data collection and reporting processes for water production and sales with the goal of improving the data quality.

Crescent City will measure the effectiveness of this DMM by ongoing monitoring of system loss.

9.1.3.6 Water Conservation Program Coordination and Staffing Support The Utilities Supervisor has been assigned as the City Conservation Coordinator and has overall responsibility for oversight and implementation of the water conservation program(s).

9.1.3.7 Other Demand Management Measures
Crescent City has installed additional sub-system meters in the area with noted losses to better isolate leakage.

9.2 Demand Management Measures for Wholesale Suppliers

9.2.1 Required Demand Management Measures

9.2.1.1 Metering
DRAFT
This section does not apply to Crescent City.
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 66 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services

9.2.1.2 Public Education and Outreach
This section does not apply to Crescent City.

9.2.1.3 Water Conservation Program Coordination and Staffing Support This section does not apply to Crescent City.

9.2.1.4 Other Demand Management Measures
Conservation Pricing
This section does not apply to Crescent City.

9.2.2 Wholesale Demand Management Measures

9.2.2.1 Asset Management
This section does not apply to Crescent City.

9.2.2.2 Supplier Assistance Programs
This section does not apply to Crescent City.

DRAFT
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 67 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services

10.0 URBAN WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN ADOPTION, SUBMITTAL, AND

IMPLEMENTATION
The following steps will be used for the 2025 UWMP adoption, submittal, and to make it available to the public:

10.1 Plan Completion Timeline
Notice of preparation to cities and counties that the
Supplier will be reviewing the UWMP and considering
amendments to the plan 60 days prior to the public
hearing.

March 25, 2026
Legal Notice of Public Hearing (newspaper). June 11, 2026 Legal Notice of Public Hearing (posting) June 2, 2026
Public Hearing and Adoption 2025 UWMP. June 15. 2026
Submit the 2025 UWMP to the Department of Water
Resources by July 1, 2026. July 1, 2026
Submittal to other agencies. By July 1, 2026
Submittal the Cities 2025 UWMP and WSCP to the
California Public Utilities Commission as part of its
general rate case filings.

By July 1, 2026

10.2 Notice of Plan Preparation
On March 25, 2026, the City provided a notice of plan preparation to Bertsch Ocean View CSD, Church Tree CSD, Del Norte County, and Pelican Bay State Prison A copy of the notification of UWMP revision is contained in Appendix B.

10.3 Notice of Public Hearing
Crescent City notified Bertsch Ocean View CSD, Church Tree CSD, Del Norte County, Pelican Bay State Prison that the UWMP was under review (Appendix B). Pursuant to Section 6066 of the Government Code, Notice of Public Hearing was published in the newspaper on June 1, 2026 and June 8, 2026. The City’s 2025 UWMP was also available for public review at City Hall. Notice of Public Hearing was provided to Bertsch Ocean View CSD, Church Tree CSD, Del Norte County, and Pelican Bay State Prison on May 28, 2026.

10.4 Public Hearing and Adoption
The City held its public hearing for the 2025 UWMP at its regularly scheduled City Council meeting on June 15, 2026. Following the hearing, the City Council adopted the 2025 UWMP as prepared. The following documents relating to the public hearing have been included:
• Certificate of Publication of the Legal Notice of Public Hearing (Appendix F); • City Council Agenda Notice of Public Hearing (Appendix F); and • City Council
DRAFT
Resolution Adopting the City’s 2025 UWMP (Appendix G).
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 68 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services

10.5 Plan Submittal

10.5.1 Submitting a UWMP and Water Shortage Contingency Plan to DWR The City’s 2025 UWMP was submitted to the DWR within 30 days of adoption on June 15, 2026. By July 1, 2026 the 2025 UWMP was submitted as an electronic copy to the California State Library, and electronic copy to the Bertsch Ocean View CSD, Church Tree CSD, Del Norte County, and Pelican Bay State Prison.

10.5.2 Electronic Data Submittal
The City submittal of the 2025 UWMP was through the DWR’s Water Use Efficiency data online submittal tool.

10.5.3 Submitting a UWMP, Including WSCP, to the California State Library By July 1, 2026 the 2025 UWMP was submitted as an electronic copy to the California State Library.

10.5.4 Submitting a UWMP to Cities and Counties
An electronic copy of the 2025 UWMP was provided to the Bertsch Ocean View CSD, Church Tree CSD, and Del Norte County. The City made its 2025 UWMP available for public review and held a public hearing to receive input. After adoption of the 2025 UWMP, the City made the plan available for public review at City Hall. Documentation showing the adopted UWMP was available for public review.

10.7 Notification to Public Utilities Commission
The City’s 2025 UWMP and WSCP were submitted to the California Public Utilities Commission as part of its general rate case filings.

10.8 Plan Implementation
The City will implement its 2025 UWMP adopted pursuant to this chapter in accordance with the schedule set forth in its plan.

10.9 Amending an Adopted Urban Water Management Plan or Water Shortage Contingency Plan

10.9.1 Amending a UWMP or WSCP
Any changes to the 2025 UWMP shall be adopted by the City Council. All notification, public hearing, adoptions, and submittal requirements will be followed for an amended plan.

10.9.2 Submitting Revised Water Shortage Contingency Plan If the Water Shortage Contingency Plan is revised and adopted by the City Council, the City will follow notification, public hearing, adoptions, and submittal requirements for an amended plan.

DRAFT
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 69 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services

10.10 Submittal Tables
DRAFT
2025 Urban Water Management Plan 70 June 2026
Crescent City Freshwater Environmental Services
References
Climate change was recently evaluated in a report titled “Crescent City Climate Change Readiness Study” prepared by Kennedy Jenks (Kennedy Jenks, March 29, 2021).

Kennedy Jenks, March 29, 2021.

Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin, from California's Groundwater Bulletin 118, 2003 update, (State of California, Department of Water Resources, 2003).

DRAFT
TABLES
DRAFT
CA0810001 City of Crescent City 4,581 829
4,581 829
Submittal Table 2-1 Retail: Public Water Systems
Add additional rows as needed
NOTES:

Volume of Water
Supplied 2025 (MG)
DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

Total
Public Water System
Number
Public Water System
Name
Number of Municipal
Connections 2025
DRAFT
Select
One
Name of Regional Alliance or
RUWMP (Drop Down List)
NOTES:

Submittal Table 2-2: Plan Identification
Type of Plan
Individual UWMP
If Water Supplier is also a member of a SB X7-7
Regional Alliance, select name from the drop-down.

Regional Urban Water Management Plan (RUWMP)
If Supplier selected RUWMP, select name from the
drop-down.

DRAFT
Supplier is a wholesale supplier
Supplier is a retail supplier
UWMP Tables are in calendar years
UWMP Tables are in fiscal years
Unit MG
Submittal Table 2-3: Supplier Identification
Type of Supplier (select one or both)
Fiscal or Calendar Year (select one)
If using fiscal years provide month and date that the fiscal year begins (mm/dd)
Units of measure used in UWMP
(Select from the drop down list).

DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent
throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

NOTES:

DRAFT
Submittal Table 2-4 Retail: Water Supplier Information Exchange Water Code Section 10631(h)
The retail Supplier has informed the following wholesale supplier(s) of projected water use.

Wholesale Water Supplier Name
Add additional rows as needed
NOTES: Crescent is not supplied water by a wholesaler and does not provide wholesale watr to others.

DRAFT
2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050(opt)
17,871 17,415 17,265 17,148 16,983
Submittal Table 3-1 Retail: Population - Current and Projected Water Code Section 10631(a)
Population
Served
NOTES: Urban Population 3.53 persons / total water connections, per 2020 UWMP based on census data/connections. Plus 1,700 Pelican Bay Prison population adjusted down from previous UWMP estimate of 4,000. Population projections (2025-2050) are based on the California Department of Finance projected population growth rates.

DRAFT
Use Type
Drop down list
May select each use multiple times
These are the only use types that will be recognized by the WUEdata online submittal tool
Potable or Non-Potable
(OPTIONAL)
Drop down list
Volume (MG)
Single Family Potable 229
Commercial Includes Multi-Fam Res and
Institutional Potable 299
Industrial Potable 1
Distribution System Water Loss Potable 300
829.417
0 Total 829
Submittal Table 4-1 Retail: Total Uses for Potable and Non-Potable Water — Actual Water Code Section 10631(d)(1)
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3. 2025 Actual Water Use
Add additional rows as needed
Subtotal Potable
Subtotal Non-Potable
Additional Description
(as needed)
DRAFT
Use Type
Drop down list
May select each use multiple times
These are the only Use Types that will be recognized
by the WUEdata online submittal tool
Potable or Non-Potable
(OPTIONAL)
Drop down list
2030 (MG) 2035 (MG) 2040 (MG) 2045 (MG) 2050 opt (MG)
Single Family Potable 222.40 220.17 217.97 215.79
Commercial Includes Multi-Fam Res and
Institutional Potable
289.70 286.80 283.93 281.10
Industrial Potable 1.14 1.13 1.12 1.11
Distribution System Water Loss Estimated at 2025 loss 36% Potable 291 288 286 283 805 797 789 781 0
0 0 0 0 0
805 797 789 781 0
Add additional rows as needed.

Submittal Table 4-2 Retail: Total Uses for Potable, and Non-Potable Water — Projected Water Code Section 10631(d)(1)
Projected Water Use
(Report To the Extent that Records are Available)
Additional Description
(as needed)
Estimated 25% Loss.

Total
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

Subtotal Non-Potable
Subtotal Potable
DRAFT
Are Future Water Savings Included in Projections?
Drop down list (y/n) No
If "Yes" to above, state the section or page number, in the cell to the right, where citations of the codes, ordinances, or otherwise are utilized in demand projections are found.

Optional Suppliers may complete Optional Submittal Table 4-4 R to quantify the expected savings.

Are Lower Income Residential Demands Included In Projections? Drop down list (y/n) Yes
Optional If the method for accounting Lower Income Residential Demands has been included, provide page number where this accounting can be found.

Submittal Table 4-3 Retail: Inclusion in Water Use Projections Water Code Section 10631 (a), 10631 (d)(4)(A), and 10631 (d)(4)(B) NOTES:

DWR NOTES: Additional guidance is provided in Appendix K.

DRAFT
2030
(MG)
2035
(MG)
2040
(MG)
2045
(MG)
2050 opt
(MG)
NOTES:

Optional Submittal Table 4-4 Retail: Passive Water Savings Projections Water Code Section 10631(d)(4)(A)
Passive savings
Add additional rows as needed
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

Description
(Codes, Standards, Ordinances, or Plans)
DRAFT
Public Water System ID #
Reported in Table 2-1 R Reporting Period Submitted to DWR Water Loss Audit Program (yes/no) 2020 Yes
2021 Yes
2022 Yes
2023 Yes
2024 Yes
Submittal Table 4-5 Retail: Water Loss Audit Reporting
Water Code Section 10631(d)(3)(A)
DWR NOTES: Suppliers will provide a link to the WUEdata submittals of their Water Loss Audit Reports.

NOTES: Crescent Citys water loss audits can be accessed at:
https://wuedata.water.ca.gov/secure/Default.asp?
Report submittal status for all five years for each Public Water System as available.

Add rows as needed
DRAFT
2028 Real Water Loss
Standard per Unit per
day
Units for Real
Water Loss
Drop down list
Number of Units
(Connections or Miles
corresponding with
units selected)
Volume of Total Real
Loss
(from AWWA Water
Loss Audit)
(MG)
2028 Apparent Water
Loss Standard per
Unit per Day
Units for
Apparent Water
Loss
Number of
Connections
Volume of Total
Apparent Loss
(from AWWA Water
Loss Audit)
(MG)
CA0810001 Yes 23
Gallons per
Service
Connection per
Day (GPSCD)
3757 148 107.9 14.4
Gallons per
Service
Connection per
Day (GPSCD)
3757 20 14.6
Gallons per
Service
Connection per
Day (GPSCD)
Gallons per
Service
Connection per
Day (GPSCD)
Submittal Table 4-6 Retail: Progress Towards 2028 Water Loss Standard Water Code Section 10631(d)(3)(C)
NOTES:

Apparent Water Loss
Did the Water Board Calculate a
Water Loss Standard for this
Public Water System? (y/n)
If no, Supplier will not complete
this row.

Real Water Loss
Water Board's Calculated Water Loss Standards
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) for Water Loss MUST remain consistent with units reported in Submittal Table 2-3. The units reported in Submittal Table 2-3 are used in this table's calculations.

Public Water
System ID #
Reported in
Submittal Table 2-1
R
Add additional rows as needed.

Most Recent AWWA Water Loss Audit
Real Water
Loss Per Unit
per Day
Most Recent AWWA Water Loss Audit
Apparent Water
Loss Per Unit per
Day
State Water Board Standard State Water Board Standard
DRAFT
Actual 2025 GPCD
(From SB X7-7
Compliance Form)
Did Supplier meet
the 2020 Target in
2025?
No Individual Target 116 112 Yes NA
Submittal Table 5-1 Retail: SB X7-7 2020 Target Progress Water Code Section 10608.40
NOTES:

Did Supplier
Achieve Targeted
Reduction for
2020?
2020 Target Actual 2020 GPCD
Regional Alliance
Target or
Individual
Target?
Drop down list
DWR NOTES:

Suppliers calculating a 2025 GPCD will need to complete and submit SB X 7-7 Compliance Tables to verify the use of SB X7-7 Methodologies.

Suppliers that were part of a merger or consolidation since 2020 see Chapter 5 and Appendix P for guidance.

NA=Not Applicable
Check the box if the Supplier was not an Urban Water Supplier during or before the 2020 UWMP reporting cycle.

Proceed to the next table.

Only for suppliers that did not meet the
Target in 2020
See DWR NOTES below.

Was Supplier part of
a merger or
consolidation since
2020?
DRAFT
Groundwater Type
Drop Down List
May use each category
multiple times
Potable or
Non-Potable
(OPTIONAL)
Drop down list
Location or Basin Name 2021 (MG) 2022 (MG) 2023 (MG) 2024 (MG) 2025 (MG) Alluvial Basin Potable Smith River 805.23 739.56 780.052 855.84 829.44 805 740 780 856 829
Add additional rows as needed
Submittal Table 6-1 Retail: Groundwater Volume Pumped
Water Code Section 10631(4) and 10631(4)(c)
DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

NOTES
Total
Check the box if the Supplier does not pump groundwater.

Proceed to the next table.

Check the box if all or part of the groundwater described below is desalinated. (OPTIONAL) DRAFT
100%
100%
Name of Wastewater
Collection Agency
Wastewater
Volume Metered
or Estimated?

OPTIONAL
Drop Down List
Volume of Wastewater
Collected from UWMP
Service Area 2025 (MG)
Name of Wastewater
Treatment Plant (WWTP) and
Place ID Number
Drop down list
Is WWTP
Located Within
UWMP Area?
Drop Down List
City of Crescent City Metered 535
Crescent City WWTP, Place ID
216106
Yes
535
Check the box if there is no wastewater collection system.

Proceed to the next table.

NOTES:

Submittal Table 6-2 Retail: Wastewater Collected Within Service Area Water Code Section 10633(a)
Percentage of 2025 service area population served by wastewater collection system (OPTIONAL)
Percentage of 2025 service area served by wastewater collection system (OPTIONAL) DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

Additional Guidance: See Appendix M, Section M.21 for detailed guidance on this table.

Wastewater Collection Recipient of Collected Wastewater Total Wastewater Received from UWMP
Service Area in 2025:

Add additional rows as needed
DRAFT
Treatment Level
Drop down list
Volume
(MG)
Treatment Level
Drop down list
Volume
(MG)
Treatment Level
Drop down list
Volume
(MG)
Treatment Level
Drop down list
Volume
(MG)
Treatment Level
Drop down list
Volume
(MG)
Name of other
entity
Crescent City WWTP,
Place ID 216106
Yes 535 353
535 353 0 0 0 0 0
Submittal Table 6-3 Retail: Wastewater Treatment and Outcomes Within UWMP Service Area Water Code Section 10633(b)
DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

IPR: Indirect Potable Reuse would have the treatment level of its end use requirement in the Level of Treatment drop-down.

Additional Guidance: See Appendix M, Section M.21 for detailed guidance on this table.

Water Recycled Outside
of UWMP Service Area
(enter data as applicable)
Effluent Discharge that is
not a Permitted Recycled
Water Use
(enter data as applicable)
Required Discharge for
Instream Flow
(enter data as applicable)
Delivered to Another Entity for Additional
Treatment
(enter data as applicable)
Add additional rows as needed
2025 Outcomes of Treated Wastewater
Check the box if no wastewater is treated or disposed of within the UWMP service area.

Proceed to the next table.

Does This Plant
Treat
Wastewater
Generated
Outside the
UWMP Service
Area?
(OPTIONAL)
Drop down list
Wastewater Treatment
Plant Name and Place
ID Number
Drop down list
Total 2025
Volume of
Water
Treated
(MG)
NOTES:

Total
2025 Volume of
Wastewater
Received from
UWMP Service
Area
(As Reported in
Submittal Table
6-2 R) (MG)
Water Recycled Within
UWMP Service Area
(enter data as applicable)
DRAFT
Volume Narrative page number
(OPTIONAL)
0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Use Type
Drop down list
Potable or Non-Potable
(after treatment if treated)
(OPTIONAL)
Drop down list
Additional Information
(as needed)
Add additional rows as needed
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

Additional Guidance: See Appendix M, Section M.21 for detailed guidance on this table.

Potential recycled water use: a description of the feasibility of these uses must be included in the narrative.

Multiple Producers: If you have multiple recycled water producers, submit a separate table for each.

NOTES:
2025 (MG) 2030 (MG) 2050 (MG) 2035
(MG)
2040
(MG)
2045
(MG)
Subtotal Potable
Subtotal Non-Potable
Check box if recycled water is not used and is not planned for use within the service area of the supplier. The supplier will only complete the column on "Potential Recycled Water Use" and submit an accompanying narrative on the feasibility of that potential recycled water use.

Submittal Table 6-4 Retail: Recycled Water Direct Beneficial Uses Within Service Area Water Code Section 10633 (c),(d),(e)
Potential Recycled Water Use
Name(s) of Facility/ies Producing (Treating) the Recycled Water (OPTIONAL) :

Name of Supplier Operating the Recycled Water Distribution System (OPTIONAL) :

Volume of Supplemental Water Added in 2025 (OPTIONAL) :

Source of 2025 Supplemental Water (OPTIONAL) :

DRAFT
2020 Projection
for 2025 (MG)
2025 Actual
Use (MG)
0 0
Submittal Table 6-5 Retail: 2020 UWMP Recycled Water Use Projection Compared to 2025 Actual
Water Code Section 10633(e)
Check the box if recycled water was not used in 2025 nor previously projected for use in 2020.

Proceed to the next table.

Add additional rows as needed
NOTES:

Total
DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure reported in Submittal Table 2-3 Additional Guidance: See Appendix M, Section M.21 for detailed guidance on this table.

Use Type
Drop Down list
DRAFT
Name of Action Description Expected Increase in Recycled Water Use (MG)
0 0
Total (MG)
DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) MUST remain consistent with units reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

The unit conversion to Acre Feet addresses the Water Code's requirement that this value be provided in acre-feet.

NOTES:

Submittal Table 6-6 Retail: Methods to Encourage Future Recycled Water Use Water Code Section 10633(f)
Check the box if the Supplier does not plan to expand recycled water use in the future. Supplier will not complete the table below but will provide narrative explanation.

Provide page location of narrative in the UWMP
Add additional rows as needed
Unit Conversion to AF
Planned Implementation Year
DRAFT
Drop Down
List
(yes/no)
If Yes, Supplier Name
Additional Water Well No
Currently evaluating the
potential for a new
goundwater production
well on city owned
property.

Potable 2027 Average Year Not known a
tthis point.

Planned for Use
in Year Type
Drop Down List
NOTES:

Submittal Table 6-7 Retail: Expected Future Water Supply Projects or Programs Water Code Section 10631(f)
DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

Check the box if some or all of the supplier's future water supply projects or programs are not compatible with this table and are described in a narrative format.

Check the box if there are no expected future water supply projects or programs that provide a quantifiable increase to the agency's water supply.

Proceed to the next table.

Planned
Implementation
Year
Add additional rows as needed
Joint Project with other suppliers? Expected
Increase in
Water Supply
to Supplier
(This may be a
range) (MG)
Provide page location of narrative in the UWMP
Name of Future Projects
or Programs
Additional Description
(as needed)
Potable or Non-Potable
(after treatment if treated)
(OPTIONAL)
Drop Down list
DRAFT
Water Supply
Drop down list
May use each category multiple times.

These are the only water supply
categories that will be recognized by
the WUEdata online submittal tool
Potable or Non-Potable
(after treatment if treated)
(OPTIONAL)
Drop Down list
Actual Volume
(MG)
Total Entitlement
(OPTIONAL)
See 'DWR Notes' below
(MG)
Groundwater (not desalinated) Smith River Underflow Potable 829 829 0
0 0
829 0
Submittal Table 6-8 Retail: Water Supplies — Actual
Water Code Section 10631(b)
2025
NOTES:

DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table identifies the unit of measure selected in Submittal Table 2-3.

Total Entitlement: e.g. Water Right, Groundwater Allocation, Contracted Amount.

Add additional rows as needed
Total
Subtotal Potable
Subtotal Non-Potable
Additional Description
(as needed)
DRAFT
Water Supply
Reasonably
Available
Volume
(MG)
Total Entitlement
(OPTIONAL)
See 'DWR Notes'
below (MG)
Reasonably
Available
Volume (MG)
Total Entitlement
(OPTIONAL)
See 'DWR Notes'
below (MG)
Reasonably
Available
Volume (MG)
Total Entitlement
(OPTIONAL)
See 'DWR Notes'
below (MG)
Reasonably
Available
Volume (MG)
Total Entitlement
(OPTIONAL)
See 'DWR Notes'
below (MG)
Reasonably
Available
Volume (MG)
Total Entitlement
(OPTIONAL)
See 'DWR Notes'
below (MG)
Groundwater (not
desalinated)
Potable 1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194
1,194 0 1,194 0 1,194 0 1,194 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
1,194 0 1,194 0 1,194 0 1,194 0 0 0
Submittal Table 6-9 Retail: Water Supplies — Projected
Water Code Section 10631 (b)
Projected Water Supply (Report to the Extent Practicable) Drop down list
May use each category multiple
times. These are the only water
supply categories that will be
recognized by the WUEdata online
submittal tool
Additional
Detail on
Water
Supply
Potable or Non-Potable
(after treatment if treated)
(OPTIONAL)
Drop Down list
2050 (opt)
Add additional rows as needed
Total
NOTES:
2030 2035 2040 2045
Subtotal Non-Potable
Subtotal Potable
DWR NOTES:

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

Total Entitlement: e.g. Water Right, Groundwater Allocation, Contracted Amount.

DRAFT
% of Average Supply
Average Year 2019 100%
Single-Dry Year 2021 70%
Consecutive Dry Years 1st Year 2018 82%
Consecutive Dry Years 2nd Year 2019 100%
Consecutive Dry Years 3rd Year 2020 88%
Consecutive Dry Years 4th Year 2021 70%
Consecutive Dry Years 5th Year 2022 93%
53655
37230
Year Type
Base Year
If not using a calendar
year, type in the last
year of the fiscal,
water year, or range
of years, for example,
water year 2024-
2025, use 2025
Optional Submittal Table 7-1 Retail: Basis of Water Year Data (Reliability Assessment) Available Supplies if
Year Type Repeats
Check the box if quantification of available supplies is not compatible with this table and is provided elsewhere in the UWMP.

Location: [insert location from UWMP]
Volume Available (MG)
Quantification of available supplies is provided in this table as either volume only, percent only, or both.
43877
53549
NOTES:
46943
37270
56378
DWR NOTES: Supplier may use multiple versions of Submittal Table 7-1 R if different water sources have different base years and the supplier chooses to report the base years for each water source separately. If a Supplier uses multiple versions of Submittal Table 7-1 R, in the "Note" section of each submittal table, state that multiple versions of Submittal Table 7-1 R are being used and identify the particular water source that is being reported in each submittal table.

Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3. This table reports the units of measure reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

DRAFT
2030 (MG) 2035 (MG) 2040 (MG) 2045 (MG) 2050 (MG)
Supply totals
(autofill from Submittal Table
6-9 R)
1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194 0
Use totals
(autofill from Submittal Table
4-2 R)
805 797 789 781 0
Surplus/(shortfall) 389 397 405 413 0
WSCP - supply augmentation
benefit
WSCP - use reduction savings
benefit
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions
Submittal Table 7-2 Retail: Normal Year Supply and Use Comparison Water Code Section 10635 (a)
NOTES:

DWR NOTES : Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

DRAFT
Supply totals 1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194 0
Use totals 805 797 789 781 0
Surplus/(shortfall) 389 397 405 413 0
WSCP - supply
augmentation benefit
WSCP - use reduction
savings benefit
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
2050 (MG)
DWR NOTES : Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

NOTES
Submittal Table 7-3 Retail: Single Dry Year Supply and Use Comparison Water Code Section 10635(a)
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions
2030 (MG) 2035 (MG)2040 (MG)2045 (MG)
DRAFT
2030 (MG)2035 (MG)2040 (MG)2045 (MG)2050 (MG)
Supply totals 1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194 0
Use totals 805 797 789 781 0
Surplus/(shortfall) 389 397 405 413 0
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
Supply totals 1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194
Use totals 805 797 789 781
Surplus/(shortfall) 389 397 405 413 0
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
Supply totals 1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194
Use totals 805 797 789 781
Surplus/(shortfall) 389 397 405 413 0
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
Supply totals 1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194
Use totals 805 797 789 781
Surplus/(shortfall) 389 397 405 413 0
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
Supply totals 1,194 1,194 1,194 1,194
Use totals 805 797 789 781
Surplus/(shortfall) 389 397 405 413 0
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
Submittal Table 7-4 Retail: Multiple Dry Years Supply and Use Comparison Water Code Section 10635(a)
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions
Third year
Fifth year
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions
Fourth year OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions
NOTES:

First year
Second year OPTIONAL WSCP Actions
DRAFT
2026 Total
Total Water Use (MG) 824
Total Supplies (MG) 1,194
Surplus/Shortfall w/o WSCP Action 370
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit (MG)
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit (MG)
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
2027 Total
Total Water Use (MG) 820
Total Supplies (MG) 1,194
Surplus/Shortfall w/o WSCP Action 374
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit (MG)
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit (MG)
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
2028 Total
Total Water Use (MG) 815
Total Supplies (MG) 1,194
Surplus/Shortfall w/o WSCP Action 379
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit (MG)
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit (MG)
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
2029 Total
Total Water Use (MG) 810
Total Supplies (MG) 1,194
Surplus/Shortfall w/o WSCP Action 384
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit (MG)
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit (MG)
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
2030 Total
Total Water Use (MG) 805
Total Supplies (MG) 1,194
Surplus/Shortfall w/o WSCP Action 389
Submittal Table 7-5 Retail: Five-Year Drought Risk Assessment Water Code Section 10635(b)(3)
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions (use reduction and supply augmentation)
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions (use reduction and supply augmentation)
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions (use reduction and supply augmentation)
OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions (use reduction and supply augmentation)
DRAFT
WSCP - supply augmentation benefit (MG)
WSCP - use reduction savings benefit (MG)
Revised Surplus/(shortfall)
NOTES:

DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

OPTIONAL Planned WSCP Actions (use reduction and supply augmentation)
DRAFT
Standard
Shortage
Levels
Percent
Shortage Range
Suppliers
Shortage
Levels
Percent
Shortage Range
1 Up to 10% 1 20
2 Up to 20% 1 20
3 Up to 30% 2 30
4 Up to 40% 3 50
5 Up to 50% 3 50
6 >50% 4 >50
Submittal Table 8-1: Cross-reference for Standard vs
Supplier Shortage Levels
Water Code Section 10632(a)(3)(B)
Check the box if the Supplier uses the
Standard six levels of water shortage.

Proceed to the next table.

NOTES:

DRAFT
No
Volume or
Percentage
Drop down
Shortage Gap
Reduction Value
(May be a range) (MG)
Submittal Table 8-2 Retail: Supply Augmentation and Other Actions Water Code Section 10632(a)(4)(A),(C) and (E)
Add additional rows as needed
NOTES:

Is the Supplier completing this table using the standard six levels? (yes/no) How much is this going to reduce the
shortage gap?
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

Shortage
Level
Supply Augmentation Methods and
Other Actions by Water Supplier
Drop down list
These are the only categories that will be
accepted by the WUEdata online submittal tool
Additional Explanation or Reference
(OPTIONAL)
DRAFT
No
Volume or Percentage
Drop down
Shortage Gap
Reduction Value
(May be a range) (MG)
1 Landscape - Other landscape restriction
or prohibition Percentage 10%
2 Landscape - Other landscape restriction
or prohibition Percentage 20%
3 Other - Prohibit use of potable water
for washing hard surfaces Percentage 30%
4 Landscape - Limit landscape irrigation
to specific days Percentage 40%
5 Landscape - Limit landscape irrigation
to specific days Percentage 50%
6 Landscape - Prohibit all landscape Percentage >50%
Is the Supplier completing this table using the standard six levels? (yes/no) Submittal Table 8-3 Retail: Demand Reduction Actions
Water Code Section 10632(a)(4)(B),(D), and (E)
Add additional rows as needed
How much is this going to reduce the shortage
gap?
Shortage
Level
Demand Reduction Actions
Drop down list
These are the only categories that will be
accepted by the WUEdata online submittal
tool. Select those that apply.

Additional Explanation or Reference
(OPTIONAL)
NOTES:

Penalty, Charge, or
Other
Enforcement?
For Retail Suppliers Only
Drop Down List
DWR NOTES: Units of measure (AF, CCF, MG) must remain consistent throughout the UWMP as reported in Submittal Table 2-3.

DRAFT
City Name 60 Day Notice
Drop Down (yes/no)
Notice of Public
Hearing
Drop Down (yes/no)
County Name
Drop Down List
60 Day Notice
Drop Down (yes/no)
Notice of Public
Hearing
Drop Down (yes/no)
Del Norte County Yes Yes
Submittal Table 10-1 Retail: Notification to Cities and Counties Water Code Section 10621(b) and 10642
Add additional rows as needed
Add additional rows as needed
NOTES:

DRAFT

FIGURES
DRAFT
Figure 1
Site Location Map
Crescent City & Service Districts
Del Norte County, California
Date: 5/8/26
By: SJT
LEGEND
Pelican Bay State Prison
Crescent City Limits
Bertsch Ocean View District
Meadow Brook District
Church Tree District
124°6'0"W
124°6'0"W
124°9'0"W
124°9'0"W
124°12'0"W
124°12'0"W
124°15'0"W
124°15'0"W
41°51'0"N
41°51'0"N
41°48'0"N
41°48'0"N
41°45'0"N
41°45'0"N
Freshwater Environmental Services
Crescent City
Urban Watershed Management Plan .
0 0.5 1 2 3
Miles
!
!
!
!
!
!
[
!
!
San Diego
San Francisco
Sacramento
Los Angeles
Fresno
Eureka
Crescent City
Susanville
Sacramento
Redding
SITE
Crescent City Limits
Service Areas
Base Image Data Source:
1:24,000 Digital Raster Graph Mosaic of
Del Norte County, California
DRAFT

ALL LOCATIONS APPROXIMATE
Figure 2
Site Location Map
Crescent City
Del Norte County, California
Date: 5/8/26
By: SJT
LEGEND
124°11'0"W
124°11'0"W
124°12'0"W
124°12'0"W
124°13'0"W
124°13'0"W
41°46'0"N
41°46'0"N
41°45'0"N
41°45'0"N
Freshwater Environmental Services
Crescent City
Urban Watershed Management Plan .
0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 500
Feet
Crescent City Limits
Base Image Data Source:
1:24,000 Digital Raster Graph Mosaic of
Del Norte County, California
DRAFT

ALL LOCATIONS APPROXIMATE
Figure 3
Site Location Map
Pelican Bay State Prison
Del Norte County, California
Date: 5/8/26
By: SJT
LEGEND
124°9'0"W
124°9'0"W
41°51'0"N
41°51'0"N
Freshwater Environmental Services
Crescent City
Urban Watershed Management Plan .
0 500 1,000 2,000 3,000
Feet
Pelican Bay State Prison
Base Image Data Source:
1:24,000 Digital Raster Graph Mosaic of
Del Norte County, California
DRAFT

ALL LOCATIONS APPROXIMATE
Figure 4
Site Location Map
Crescent City
Del Norte County, California
Date: 5/8/26
By: SJT
LEGEND
124°12'0"W
124°12'0"W
41°45'0"N
41°45'0"N
Freshwater Environmental Services
Crescent City
Urban Watershed Management Plan .
0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 500
Feet
Crescent City Limits
Base Image Data Source: USDA-FSA
Aerial Photography Field Office,
Dated June 12, 2010.

DRAFT

ALL LOCATIONS APPROXIMATE
Figure 5
Site Location Map
Pelican Bay State Prison
Del Norte County, California
Date: 5/8/26
By: SJT
LEGEND
124°9'0"W
124°9'0"W
41°51'0"N
41°51'0"N
Freshwater Environmental Services
Crescent City
Urban Watershed Management Plan .
0 500 1,000 2,000 3,000
Feet
Pelican Bay State Prison
Base Image Data Source: USDA-FSA
Aerial Photography Field Office,
Dated June 12, 2010.

DRAFT

ALL LOCATIONS APPROXIMATE
Figure 6
Smith River
Groundwater Basin
Date: 5/8/26
By: SJT
LEGEND
124°0'0"W
124°0'0"W
124°5'0"W
124°5'0"W
124°10'0"W
124°10'0"W
124°15'0"W
124°15'0"W
41°55'0"N
41°55'0"N
41°50'0"N
41°50'0"N
41°45'0"N
41°45'0"N
Freshwater Environmental Services
Crescent City
Urban Watershed Management Plan .
0 1 2 3 4 5 0.5
Miles
Crescent City Limits
Service Areas
Base Image Data Source:
1:24,000 Digital Raster Graph Mosaic of
Del Norte County, California

ALL LOCATIONS APPROXIMATE
Approximate Boundary of the
Smith River Groundwater Basin
based on shapefile B118_v3_BasinBoundaries_NAD83
downloaded April 19, 2010 from DWR website.

Smith River
Ranney Well
DRAFT
Figure 7
Geologic Map
Date: 5/8/26
By: SJT
LEGEND
sandstone
alluvium
serpentinite
slate
dune
sand
blueschist
alluvium
mafic
volcanic rock
sandstone
serpentinite
sandstone
conglomerate
124°0'0"W
124°0'0"W
124°5'0"W
124°5'0"W
124°10'0"W
124°10'0"W
124°15'0"W
124°15'0"W
41°55'0"N
41°55'0"N
41°50'0"N
41°50'0"N
41°45'0"N
41°45'0"N
Freshwater Environmental Services
Crescent City
Urban Watershed Management Plan .
0 1 2 3 4 5 0.5
Miles
Service Areas
Geologic data obtained in digital format
based on Geologic Map of California by
Jennings (1977) published by California
Geological Survey.

Base Image Data Source:
1:24,000 Digital Raster Graph Mosaic of
Del Norte County, California.

Original scale 1:750,000

ALL LOCATIONS APPROXIMATE
Smith River
Ranney Well
DRAFT
DRAFT

APPENDIX A
2025 UWMP CHECKLIST
DRAFT
Retail
(x = required)
Wholesale
(x = required) Order 2025 Guidebook Location
Water Code
Section Summary as Applies to UWMP Subject
Relevant
Submitta
l Table
2025 UWMP Location
x x 1 Chapter 1 10615 A plan shall describe and evaluate sources of supply, reasonable and practical efficient uses, reclamation and demand management activities.

Introduction and
overview n/a
x x 1 Chapter 1 10630.5
Each plan shall include a simple description of the Supplier’s plan including water availability, future requirements, a strategy for meeting needs, and other pertinent information. Additionally, a Supplier may also choose to include a simple description at the beginning of each chapter.

Plan preparation n/a
x x 2.1 Section 2.1 10620(b) Every person that becomes a Supplier shall adopt UWMP within one year after it has become a Supplier. Plan preparation n/a
x n/a 2.5 Section 2.5 10644 Supplier shall report the Public Water Systems number, volume of delivered water, and number of connections that are included in this UWMP. Plan preparation 2-1 x x 2.5 Section 2.5 10644 Supplier shall report if this UWMP is an individual UWMP and whether the Supplier belongs to a regional UWMP or regional alliance. Plan preparation 2-2 x x 2.5 Section 2.5 10644 Supplier shall report whether the data is in fiscal or calendar years and the units of measure used for reporting water volumes. Plan preparation 2-3
x x 2.4 Section 2.4 10642
Provide supporting documentation that the Supplier has encouraged active involvement of diverse social, cultural, and economic elements of the population within the service area prior to and during the preparation of the plan and contingency plan.

Plan preparation n/a
x x 2.4 Section 2.4.2 10620(d)(3)
Coordinate the preparation of its plan with other appropriate agencies in the area, including other Suppliers that share a common source, water management agencies, and relevant public agencies, to the extent practicable.

Plan preparation n/a
x n/a 2.4 Section 2.4.1 10631(h) Retail Suppliers will include documentation that they have provided their Wholesale Supplier(s)—if any—with water use projections from that source. Plan preparation 2-4 R n/a x 2.4 Section 2.4.1 10631(h)
Wholesale Suppliers will provide their Suppliers with identification and quantification of the existing and planned sources of water available from the Wholesale Supplier to the Supplier during various water year types.

Plan preparation 2-4 W n/a
x x 3 Chapter 3.0 10631(a) Describe the Supplier service area. System description n/a x x 3.3 Section 3.3 10631(a) Describe the climate of the Supplier’s service area. System description n/a x x 3.4 Section 3.4.1 10631(a) Provide the current and projected service area populations for 2030, 2035, 2040, 2045 and optionally 2050. System description 3-1
x x 3.4 Section 3.4.2 10631(a) Describe other social, economic, and demographic factors affecting the Supplier’s water management planning. System description n/a
x x 3.5 Section 3.5 10631(a)
Describe the land uses within the service area… include the current and projected land uses within the existing or anticipated service area affecting the Supplier’s water management planning.

Describe the land uses within the service area.

System description and
baselines n/a
x Optional 4.2 Sections 4.2.3
and 4.2.4 10631(d)(1) Quantify past, current, and projected water use, identifying the uses among water use sectors. System water use 4-1 and 4-2 x Optional 4.3 Section 4.3.1 10631(d)(3)(
A) Report the distribution system water loss for each of the five years preceding the plan update. System water use 4-5 x n/a 4.3 Section 4.3.2 10631(d)(3)(
C) Retail Suppliers shall provide data to show the distribution loss standards were met. System water use 4-6 x n/a 4.2 Section 4.2.5.4 10631.1(a) Include projected water use needed for lower income housing projected in the service area of the Supplier. System water use 4-3
x n/a 4.2 Section 4.2.5.3 10631(d)(4)(
A)
In projected water use, include estimates of water savings from adopted codes, plans, and other policies or laws. System water use 4-3
x n/a 4.2 Section 4.2.5.3 10631(d)(4)(
B) Provide citations of codes, standards, ordinances, or plans used to make water use projections. System water use 4-3 x n/a 4.2 Section 4.2.5.3 10631(d)(4)(
B)(ii)
To the extent that a Supplier reports the information described in subparagraph (A), an urban water Supplier shall… Indicate the extent that the water use projections consider savings from codes, standards, ordinances, or transportation and land use plans. Water use projections that do not account for these water savings shall be noted of that fact.

System water use 4-3
x x 4.2 Section 4.2.5.6 10635(b) Demands under climate change considerations must be included as part of the drought risk assessment. System water use n/a
n/a x 5.1 Section 5.1 10608.36 Wholesale Suppliers shall include an assessment of present and proposed future measures, programs, and policies to help their Retail Suppliers achieve targeted water use reductions. Baselines and targets n/a x n/a 5.2 Section 5.2 10608.4
Retail Suppliers shall report on their compliance in meeting their water use targets. Reporting requirements will vary depending on whether the Supplier:
- Was considered an urban retail water supplier in 2020, - Met its 2020 target in 2020, or
- Was part of a merger or consolidation since 2020.

Chapter 5 Subsections 5.2.1, 5.2.2, and 5.2.3 address each of these situations.

Baselines and targets 5-1
x x 6.1 Section 6.1 10631(b)(2) When multiple sources of water supply are identified, describe the management of each supply in relationship to other identified supplies. System supplies n/a x x 6.1 Sections 6.1
and 6.2 10631(b)(1)
Provide a discussion of anticipated supply availability under a normal, single dry year, and a drought lasting five years, as well as more frequent and severe periods of drought, including changes in supply due to climate change.

System supplies n/a
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2 10631(b)(4)(
C)
Indicate whether groundwater is an existing or planned source of water available to the Supplier.

If groundwater is identified as an existing or planned source of water… (include) a detailed description and analysis of the location, amount and sufficiency of groundwater pumped by the Supplier for the past five years.

Water supplies and
recycled water 6-1
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2 10631(b)(4)(
A)
Indicate whether a groundwater sustainability plan or groundwater management plan has been adopted by the Supplier or if there is any other specific authorization for groundwater management. Include a copy of the plan or authorization.

System supplies n/a
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2 10631(b)(4)(
B) Describe the groundwater basin. System supplies n/a
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2 10631(b)(4)(
B)
Indicate if the basin has been adjudicated and include a copy of the court order or decree and a description of the amount of water the Supplier has the legal right to pump. System supplies n/a x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2 10631(b)(4)(
B)
For unadjudicated basins… (include) information as to whether DWR has identified the basin as a high- or medium-priority basin in the most current official departmental bulletin… Water supplies and
recycled water n/a
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2 10631(b)(4)(
B)
For unadjudicated basins… describe efforts by the Supplier to coordinate with sustainability or groundwater agencies to achieve sustainable groundwater conditions.

Water supplies and
recycled water n/a
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2. 10631(b)(4)(
C)
If groundwater is identified as an existing or planned source of water… (include) a detailed description and analysis of the location, amount and sufficiency of groundwater pumped by the Supplier for the past five years.

System supplies n/a
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.2 10631(b)(4)(
D)
Provide a detailed description and analysis of the amount and location of groundwater that is projected to be pumped. System supplies 6-9
x x 6.1 Section 6.1 10631(b) Identify and quantify the existing and planned sources of water available for 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, 2045 and optionally 2050. System supplies 6-8 and 6-9 x x 6.2 Section 6.2.7 10631(c) Describe the opportunities for exchanges or transfers of water on a short-term or long-term basis. System supplies n/a x n/a 6.2 Section 6.2.5 10633(a) Describe the wastewater collection and treatment systems in the Supplier’s service area with quantified amount of collection and treatment and the disposal methods.

System supplies
(recycled water) 6-2
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.5 10633(b) Describe the quantity of treated wastewater that meets recycled water standards, is being discharged, and is otherwise available for use in a recycled water project.

System supplies
(recycled water) 6-3
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.5 10633(c) Describe the recycled water currently being used in the Supplier's service area. System supplies (recycled water) 6-4
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.5 10633(d) Describe and quantify the potential uses of recycled water and provide a determination of the technical and economic feasibility of those uses.

System supplies
(recycled water) 6-4
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.5 10633(e)
Describe the projected use of recycled water within the Supplier's service area at the end of 5, 10, 15, and 20 years, and describe the actual use of recycled water in comparison to uses previously projected.

System supplies
(recycled water)
6-4 and
6-5
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.5 10633(f) Describe the actions that may be taken to encourage the use of recycled water and the projected results of these actions in terms of acre-feet of recycled water used per year.

System supplies
(recycled water) 6-6
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.5 10633(g) Provide a plan for optimizing the use of recycled water in the Supplier's service area. System supplies (recycled water) n/a
x x 6.2 Section 6.2.6 10631(g) Describe desalinated water project opportunities for long-term supply. System supplies 6-7 x x 6.2 Section 6.2.10 10631(f)
Describe the expected future water supply projects and programs that may be undertaken by the water Supplier to address water supply reliability in average, single-dry, and for a period of drought lasting five consecutive water years.

System supplies 6-7
x x 6.3 Section 6.3 and
Appendix O 10631.2(a) The UWMP must include energy information, as stated in the code, that a Supplier can readily obtain.

System suppliers,
energy intensity
O-1A, O1B, O1C, and
O-2
x 7.1 Section 7.1 10634 Provide information on the quality of existing sources of water available to the Supplier and the manner in which water quality affects water management strategies and supply reliability.

Water supply reliability
assessment n/a
x x 7.2 Section 7.2 10635(a)
Service Reliability Assessment: Assess the water supply reliability during normal, dry, and a drought lasting five consecutive water years by comparing the total water supply sources available to the Supplier with the total projected water use over the next 20 years.

Water supply reliability
assessment
7-2, 7-3,
and 7-4
x x 7.2 Section 7.2.3 10620(f) Describe water management tools and options to maximize resources and minimize the need to import water from other regions.

Water supply reliability
assessment n/a
x x 7.3 Section 7.3 10635(b) Provide a drought risk assessment as part of information considered in developing the demand management measures and water supply projects.

Water supply reliability
assessment n/a
x x 7.3 Section 7.3 10635(b)(1)
Include a description of the data, methodology, and basis for one or more supply shortage conditions that are necessary to conduct a drought risk assessment for a drought period that lasts five consecutive years.

Water supply reliability
assessment n/a
x x 7.3 Section 7.3 10635(b)(2) Include a determination of the reliability of each source of supply under a variety of water shortage conditions.

Water supply reliability
assessment n/a
x x 7.3 Section 7.3 10635(b)(3) Include a comparison of the total water supply sources available to the Supplier with the total projected water use for the drought period.

Water supply reliability
assessment 7-5
x x 7.3 Section 7.3 10635(b)(4)
Include considerations of the historical drought hydrology, plausible changes on projected supplies and demands under climate change conditions, anticipated regulatory changes, and other locally applicable criteria.

Water supply reliability
assessment n/a
x x 8 Chapter 8 10632(a) Provide a water shortage contingency plan (WSCP) with specified elements below. Water shortage contingency planning n/a
x x 8 Chapter 8 10632(a)(1) Provide an analysis of water supply reliability (from Guidebook Chapter 7) in the WSCP. Water shortage contingency planning n/a
x x 8.2 Section 8.2 10632(a)(2)(
A)
Provide the written decision-making process and other methods that the Supplier will use each year to determine its water reliability.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.2 Section 8.2 10632(a)(2)(
B)
Provide data and methodology to evaluate the Supplier’s water reliability for the current year and one dry year pursuant to factors in the code.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.3 Section 8.3 10632(a)(3)(
A)
Define six standard water shortage levels of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% shortage, and greater than 50% shortage. These levels shall be based on supply conditions, including percent reductions in supply, changes in groundwater levels, changes in surface elevation, or other conditions. The shortage levels shall also apply to a catastrophic interruption of supply.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.3 Section 8.3 10632(a)(3)(
B)
Suppliers with an existing WSCP that uses different water shortage levels must cross reference their categories with the six standard categories.

Water shortage
contingency planning 8-1
x x 8.4 Section 8.4 10632(a)(4)(
A)
Suppliers with WSCPs that align with the defined shortage levels must specify locally appropriate supply augmentation actions.

Water shortage
contingency planning 8-2
x x 8.4 Section 8.4 10632(a)(4)(
B) Specify locally appropriate demand reduction actions to adequately respond to shortages. Water shortage contingency planning 8-3 x x 8.4 Section 8.4 10632(a)(4)(
C) Specify locally appropriate operational changes. Water shortage contingency planning 8-2 x x 8.4 Section 8.4 10632(a)(4)(
D)
Specify additional mandatory prohibitions against specific water use practices that are in addition to State-mandated prohibitions are appropriate to local conditions.

Water shortage
contingency planning Table 8-3
x x 8.4 Section 8.4 10632(a)(4)(
E)
Estimate the extent to which the gap between supplies and demand will be reduced by implementation of the action.

Water shortage
contingency planning
8-2 and
8-3
x x 8.4 Section 8.4.6 10632.5 The UWMP shall include a seismic risk assessment and mitigation plan. Water shortage contingency plan n/a
x x 8.5 Section 8.5 10632(a)(5)(
A)
Suppliers must describe that they will inform customers, the public and others regarding any current or predicted water shortages.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.5 Section 8.5
10632(a)(5)(
B),
10632(a)(5)(
C)
Suppliers must describe that they will inform customers, the public and others regarding any shortage response actions triggered or anticipated to be triggered and other relevant communications.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x n/a 8.6 Section 8.6 10632(a)(6) Retail Supplier must describe how it will ensure compliance with and enforce provisions of the WSCP.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.7 Section 8.7 10632(a)(7)(
A) Describe the legal authority that empowers the Supplier to enforce shortage response actions. Water shortage contingency planning n/a x x 8.7 Section 8.7 10632(a)(7)(
B)
Provide a statement that the Supplier will declare a water shortage emergency per Water Code Chapter 3. Water Shortage Emergencies .

Water shortage
contingency planning
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n/a
x x 8.7 Section 8.7 10632(a)(7)(
C)
Provide a statement that the Supplier will coordinate with any city or county within which it provides water for the possible proclamation of a local emergency.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.8 Section 8.8 10632(a)(8)(
A)
Describe the potential revenue reductions and expense increases associated with activated shortage response actions.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.8 Section 8.8 10632(a)(8)(
B)
Provide a description of mitigation actions needed to address revenue reductions and expense increases associated with activated shortage response actions.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x n/a 8.8 Section 8.8 10632(a)(8)(
C)
Retail Suppliers must describe the cost of compliance with Water Code Chapter 3.3, Excessive Residential Water Use During Drought .

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x n/a 8.9 Section 8.9 10632(a)(9)
Retail Suppliers must describe the monitoring and reporting requirements and procedures that ensure appropriate data are collected, tracked, and analyzed for purposes of monitoring customer compliance.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.10 Section 8.10 10632(a)(10)
Describe reevaluation and improvement procedures for monitoring and evaluation the WSCP to ensure risk tolerance is adequate and appropriate water shortage mitigation strategies are implemented.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x n/a 8.11 Section 8.11 10632(b) Analyze and define water features that are artificially supplied with water, including ponds, lakes, waterfalls, and fountains, separately from swimming pools and spas.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x x 8.12 Section 8.12 10632(c) Make available the WSCP to customers and any city or county where it provides water within 30 days after adoption of the plan.

Water shortage
contingency planning n/a
x n/a 9.1 Sections 9.1 10631(e)(1)
Retail Suppliers shall provide a description of the nature and extent of each demand management measure implemented over the past five years. The description will address specific measures listed in code.

Demand management
measures
n/a
n/a x 9.2 Sections 9.2 10631(e)(2) Wholesale Suppliers shall describe specific demand management measures listed in code, their distribution system asset management program, and Supplier assistance program.

Demand management
measures
n/a
x n/a 10 Chapter 10 10608.26(a) Retail Suppliers shall conduct a public hearing to discuss adoption, implementation, and economic impact of water use targets (recommended to discuss compliance).

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.2 Section 10.2.1 10621(b)
Notify, at least 60 days prior to the public hearing, any city or county within which the Supplier provides water that the Supplier will be reviewing the UWMP and considering amendments or changes to the plan.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
10-1
x x 10.4 Section 10.4 10621(f) Each urban water Supplier shall update and submit its 2025 plan to DWR by July 1, 202 6.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.2
Sections

10.2.2, 10.3,
and 10.5
10642
Provide supporting documentation that the Supplier made the UWMP and WSCP available for public inspection, published notice of the public hearing, and held a public hearing about the UWMP and WSCP.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.2 Section 10.2.2 10642 The Supplier is to provide the time and place of the hearing to any city or county within which the Supplier provides water.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
10-1
x x 10.3 Section 10.3.2 10642 Provide supporting documentation that the UWMP and WSCP has been adopted as prepared or modified.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.4 Section 10.4 10644(a) Provide supporting documentation that the Supplier has submitted their UWMP to the California State Library.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.4 Section 10.4 10644(a)(1) Provide supporting documentation that the Supplier has submitted their UWMP to any city or county within which the Supplier provides water no later than 30 days after adoption.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.4 Sections 10.4.1
and 10.4.2 10644(a)(2) The UWMP, or amendments to the UWMP, submitted to DWR shall be submitted electronically.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.7 Section 10.7.2 10644(b) If revised, submit a copy of the WSCP to DWR within 30 days of adoption.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.5 Section 10.5 10645(a)
Provide supporting documentation that, not later than 30 days after filing a copy of its UWMP with DWR, the Supplier has or will make the plan available for public review during normal business hours.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.5 Section 10.5 10645(b)
Provide supporting documentation that, not later than 30 days after filing a copy of its WSCP with DWR, the Supplier has or will make the plan available for public review during normal business hours.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
x x 10.6 Section 10.6 10621(c) If Supplier is regulated by the Public Utilities Commission, include its plan and contingency plan as part of its general rate case filings.

Plan adoption,
submittal, and
implementation
n/a
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APPENDIX B

NOTICE OF PREPARATION TO NEIGHBORING MUNICIPALITIES
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APPENDIX C
CRESCENT CITY WATER SHORTAGE CONTINGENCY PLAN, 2021
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CRESCENT CITY

WATER SHORTAGE CONTINGENCY PLAN
Prepared for:

Public Works Department
City of Crescent City
377 J Street
Crescent City, California 95531
June 2021
Prepared by:

Orrin Plocher and Stan Thiesen
of
78 Sunny Brae Center
Arcata, California 95521
Phone (707) 839-0091
Freshwater Environmental Services
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City of Crescent City i June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF APPENDICES ........................................................................................ ii

1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................1

1.1 Purpose.......................................................................................................2

1.2 State Regulations and Planning Requirements...........................................2

2.0 WATER SUPPLY RELIABILTIY ANALYSIS ...................................................3

3.0 ANNUAL WATER SUPPLY AND DEMAND ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES8

3.1 Decision Making Process ............................................................................8

3.2 Data and Methodologies .............................................................................9

4.0 CATASTROPHIC INTERRUPTION OF WATER SUPPLY ...........................10

5.0 STANDARD WATER SHORTAGE STAGES................................................11

5.1 Rationing Stages and Demand Reduction Goals ......................................11

5.2 Shortage Response Actions......................................................................12

5.3 Communication Protocols .........................................................................14

5.4 Compliance and Enforcement ...................................................................14

5.5 Legal Authority ..........................................................................................14

6.0 FINANCIAL CONSEQUENCES OF WSCP ACTIVATION............................15

7.0 MONITORING AND REPORTING................................................................16

8.0 WSCP REFINEMENT PROCEDURES.........................................................17

9.0 SPECIAL WATER FEATURE DISTINCTION ...............................................18

10.0 PLAN ADOPTION, SUBMITTAL, AND AVAILABILITY...............................19 DRAFT
City of Crescent City ii June 2021
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LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX A CALIFORNIA WATER CODE SECTION 350-359
APPENDIX B CALIFORNIA WATER CODE SECTION 10632
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Crescent City (the City) is located on Hwy 101 on the Northern California coast about 20 miles south of the Oregon border and is the only incorporated city in Del Norte County. Crescent City is approximately 1.4 square miles in size. Del Norte County is characterized by rugged mountains split by meandering streams and rivers that flow to the ocean. It has a rugged, "untamed" nature about it, with sequoia/redwood forests prevalent throughout the area.

Based on the GIS analysis of 2000 US Census Bureau data the population of the Crescent City water service area was 16,968, including the Pelican Bay State Prison population. Based on the GIS analysis of 2010 US Census Bureau data the population of the Crescent City water service area was 17,840 including the Pelican Bay State Prison population.

Population from 1994-2009 and 2011-2020 are based on the persons per connection. Projections of populations from 2021-2045 are based on California Department of Finance (CA DOF) the projected population growth for the planning period (2021-2045) and listed below:
• 2021-2025, -0.49% per year,
• 2026-2030, -0.54% per year,
• 2031-2035, -0.45% per year,
• 2036-2040, -0.36% per year, and
• 2041-2045, -0.27% per year
The City supplies water to three water districts as well as customers in the urban services area and within the City’s jurisdictional area. The districts hire by contract the City crews and staff to maintain their system and to perform accounting. The districts are Meadowbrook, Church Tree Community Service District, and Bertsch Ocean View Community Service District.

The City of Crescent City's only water source is provided by Smith River underflow associated with the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin. The Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin provides an abundant supply of high-quality fresh water. The drainage basin of the Smith River, which covers about 700 square miles, produces runoff of about 2.9 million acre-feet per year (AFY) (944,265 million gallons per year) making it the highest water-producing drainage in California based on runoff per square mile.

Crescent City supplies water to 4,636 active connections (2020). In 2020, a total of 833
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million gallons of water was distributed to the City’s customer base.

City of Crescent City 2 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

1.1 Purpose
The City of Crescent City, California has prepared this Water Shortage Contingency Plan as a response to the severe drought of 2012-2016, to prepare for potential future local, regional, and State water shortage conditions, and to fulfill a requirement of the Urban Water Management Planning Act.

1.2 State Regulations and Planning Requirements
The California Water Code contains two provisions for California water supplies related to water shortage contingency planning.

California Water Code Section 350-359 provides the authority for a governing body to declare water shortage emergencies (Appendix A). Upon the declaration of a water shortage emergency, the local agency is provided with broad powers to implement and enforce regulations and restrictions for managing water shortage conditions. Priority is given to water needed for domestic, sanitation and fire protection purposes. Discrimination is not allowed between water users using water for the same purpose or purposes. Declaration of a water shortage emergency requires a public hearing with a public notice in a newspaper seven days prior to the hearing (California Water Code §352). The public hearing and public notice is not required in the event of a breakage or failure of the water distribution system causing an immediate emergency (California Water Code §351).

The Urban Water Management Planning (UWMP) Act requires urban water suppliers to prepare an urban water shortage contingency plan that includes several elements (California Water Code §10632, contained in Appendix B).

This Water Shortage Contingency Plan addresses each of the required elements in the urban water shortage contingency plan.

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2.0 WATER SUPPLY RELIABILTIY ANALYSIS
Crescent City performed an analysis of annual precipitation totals from the nearest weather station with a continuous historical record 1949-2020, (Gasquet, California). A summary of the analysis is included in the table below:

Type of Year(s) Year(s)
Annual Total
Precipitation
(inches) % Normal
Average Year 1999 91 100%
Single Driest Year 2013 46 51%
Driest Five Years 1987-1991 65.7 72%
To look for the impact of the various year types on the Smith River discharge, the Smith River average monthly discharge (cubic feet per second) for the wettest and driest months were plotted with total annual precipitation (inches) as shown below:

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City of Crescent City 4 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services The above plot shows that during the single driest year the average monthly flow of the Smith River during the dry season was unaffected and was actually higher than years before and after the driest year (2013).

The above plot shows that during the driest 5 consecutive years the average monthly flow of the Smith River during the dry season actually increased during the 5 driest year(s).

The City's highest recorded daily volume is only 2.3% of the recorded lowest annual mean monthly discharge rate.

Groundwater annual high and low elevations were plotted with annual precipitation for several groundwater wells used to monitor conditions of the Smith Groundwater Plain Groundwater Basin. The wells are located in different areas within the groundwater basin. The driest single year and driest 5-years are noted to show the impact of precipitation extremes on Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin water levels.

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City of Crescent City
5 June 2021
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City of Crescent City
6 June 2021
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City of Crescent City 7 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services The plots on the previous pages indicate the following:
• Groundwater elevations within the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin have been stable throughout the time of available data (1950’s to 2020). • At some locations, wet weather groundwater elevations appear to be somewhat responsive to more precipitation. At other locations, the wet weather groundwater elevations appear to be non-responsive to more precipitation; and
• The single driest and multiple driest 5 years on record did not have an impact on the dry weather groundwater elevations. Dry season groundwater elevations appear to be steady throughout the time interval covered by the available data.

Conclusions regarding water source reliability include:
• Historic periods of dry weather appear to have had an impact on the seasonally high Smith River discharge volumes and on seasonally high groundwater elevations;
• Historic periods of dry weather do not appear to have significantly impacted the seasonally low Smith River discharge volumes due to recharge from the surrounding Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin; • Historic periods of dry weather do not appear to have had an impact on seasonally low groundwater elevations in the Smith River Plain Groundwater basin: and
• The Crescent City water supply is not currently experiencing the impact of drought and has been reliable even during periods of record low precipitation.

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City of Crescent City 8 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

3.0 ANNUAL WATER SUPPLY AND DEMAND ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES Requirement: Water Code Section 10632(a)(2) The procedures used in conducting an annual water supply and demand assessment that include, at a minimum, both of the following:
• The written decision-making process that an urban water supplier will use each year to determine its water supply reliability. • (B) The key data inputs and assessment methodology used to evaluate the urban water supplier’s water supply reliability for the current year and one dry year, including all of the following:
o (i) Current year unconstrained demand, considering weather, growth, and other influencing factors, such as policies to manage current supplies to meet demand objectives in
future years, as applicable.
o (ii) Current year available supply, considering hydrological and regulatory conditions in the current year and one dry year. The annual supply and demand assessment may
consider more than one dry year solely at the discretion of the urban water supplier.
o (iii) Existing infrastructure capabilities and plausible constraints.
o (iv) A defined set of locally applicable evaluation criteria that are consistently relied upon for each annual water supply and demand assessment.
o (v) A description and quantification of each source of water supply. Water Code Section 10632.1

3.1 Decision Making Process
The City's Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment will follow the following approximate schedule:
• Second week of May – Data collection, precipitation data, Smith River discharge data, and groundwater elevation data.
• Third week of May – Data evaluation. Determine current year unconstrained demand, current year available supply, identify existing infrastructure capabilities and plausible constraints, and generate the Draft-Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment.
• Fourth week of May – Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment reviewed by Public Works Director and City Manager and finalized. •
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First week in June – Notice of public meeting.

City of Crescent City 9 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services • Third week in June – Report presented to City Council. • July 1 - Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessment to the Department of Water Resources.

3.2 Data and Methodologies
Crescent City will prepare Annual Water Supply and Demand Assessments utilizing the following data:
• Precipitation data from the Gasquet Ranger Station (GAS). • Discharge data from the Smith River (USGS gauging station 11532500). (USGS Current Conditions for USGS 11532500 SMITH R NR CRESCENT

CITY CA)
• Groundwater elevation data from CASGEM wells within the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin.
• Projected current year unconstrained demand.
• Projected current year available supply.

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City of Crescent City 10 June 2021
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4.0 CATASTROPHIC INTERRUPTION OF WATER SUPPLY
The California Safe Drinking Water Act mandates in Section 4029 that every public water system includes a Disaster Response Plan as part of their Emergency Notification Plan. This plan will outline the steps to be taken to maintain or return water service to the City’s customers after a major disaster.

The City of Crescent City prepared an Emergency Response Plan (ERP), which describes the actions the City will take during a catastrophic interruption of water supplies.

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City of Crescent City 11 June 2021
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5.0 STANDARD WATER SHORTAGE STAGES

5.1 Rationing Stages and Demand Reduction Goals
Crescent City's Water Shortage Contingency Plan consists of the following stages of rationing and demand reduction goals:

Stage Demand Reduction Goals
Stage 1-Voluntary Conservation 20%
Stage 2-Mandatory Conservation 20-30%
Stage 3-Emergency Water Shortage 30-50%
Stage 4-Critical Water Shortage
Emergency >50%
The declaration of a specific stage of water shortage emergency will depend on several variables including:
• Statewide drought conditions;
• Local drought conditions; and
• State regulations, notices, and orders.

Declaration of a Stage 4 water shortage emergency may also be triggered by a major catastrophic event that affects the ability of the City to meet anticipated demands. The decision regarding declaration of a specific Stage of water shortage emergency will be based on conditions at the time, therefore the triggers are general to accommodate a broad range of conditions.

Requirement: Water Code Section 10632 (a)(3)(A) requires six standard water shortage levels corresponding to progressive ranges of up to 10-, 20-, 30-, 40-, and 50-percent shortages and greater than 50-percent shortage.

Requirement: Water Code Section 10632 (a)(3)(B) authorizes Suppliers to continue using their own water shortage levels that may have been included in past WSCPs. If the Supplier chooses to continue to do so in its new WSCP, it must include a narrative or graphic describing the Supplier’s water shortage levels in relationship to the six standard water shortage levels prescribed by statute.

A graphic correlation between the shortage level (stages) contained in this WSCP and the 2020
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WSCP mandated shortage levels is shown below:

City of Crescent City 12 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services 2020 WSCP mandated shortage levels
Stage
Demand
Reduction
Goals Stage Shortage Level
Stage 1-Voluntary
Conservation
20%
1 < 10%
Stage 2-
Mandatory
Conservation
20-30% 2 10-20%
Stage 3-
Emergency Water
Shortage
30-50%
3 20-30%
Stage 4-Critical
Water Shortage
Emergency
>50% 4 30-40%
5 40-50%
6 >50%

5.2 Shortage Response Actions
During a Stage I water shortage voluntary water conservation is requested of all customers including the specific voluntary measures below:
• Use water efficient indoor devices.
• Use of hose-end shutoff nozzles on all garden and utility hoses. • Refrain from washing cars, boats, trailers, or other vehicles except by hose with shutoff nozzle and bucket.
• Installation of low-flow shower heads, low-flush toilets, and faucet aerators.
• Promptly repair all leaks in plumbing fixtures, water lines, and sprinkler systems.

During a Stage 2 water shortage water use as indicated in the table below are nonessential and are prohibited:

Outdoor irrigation of ornamental landscapes or turf with potable water is prohibited on odd numbered calendar days.

Washing sidewalks, driveways, parking areas, tennis courts, patios or other exterior paved areas except by public agency for the purpose of public safety.

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City of Crescent City 13 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services Application of potable water to outdoor landscapes in a manner that causes runoff such that water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots, or structures.

Use of potable water in a fountain or other decorative water feature, except where the water is part of a recirculation system.

Watering any portion of a golf course other than the tees and greens except where private well or recycled water supply is used.

Fire hydrant water unless authorized by the City, except by fire protection agencies for fire suppression purposes, or for other authorized uses including storm drain maintenance, and street sweeping purposes. Water/sewer flushing, and fire flow testing are authorized only if coordinated and performed at the same time.

The use of a hose that dispenses potable water to wash a motor vehicle or for any other purpose, except where the hose is fitted with a shutoff nozzle or device attached to it that causes it to cease dispensing water immediately when not in use.

During a Stage 3 water shortage emergency, in addition to the restricted water uses in earlier Stages, water uses indicated below are nonessential and are prohibited:

Outdoor irrigation is prohibited unless total water use is reduced by 50 % from the same billing period from the previous calendar year (prior to declaration of the most recent water shortage emergency).

Bulk water sales.

Any leaks that are not repaired within 24 hours after discovery.

Automated commercial car washes without a water recycling system.

Street cleaning or dust control with potable water.

Filling or to top off any swimming pools, outdoor spas, wading pools, and ornamental water features.

Use of water from a fire hydrant except for fighting fires and human consumption.

Watering any residential lawn or any commercial or industrial area lawn maintained for aesthetic purposes, at any time of the day or night during the period of March 1, through September 30, when a Stage 3 is in effect.

Planting any new landscaping, except for designated drought-resistant landscaping approved by the City.

Operating a hotel, motel or other commercial lodging establishment without offering patrons the option to forego the daily laundering of towels, sheets and linens.

Use of water for any outdoor washing purpose including commercial car washing, window washing, and paint preparation.

Washing of cars, boats, tr
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ailers, or other vehicles.

City of Crescent City 14 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services During a Stage 4 water shortage emergency, in addition to the restricted water uses in earlier stages, water uses indicated below are nonessential and are prohibited:

Agricultural irrigation.

Outdoor irrigation.

Any leaks that are not repaired immediately.

5.3 Communication Protocols
On an annual basis in the month of June, Public works staff will perform an Annual Assessment of City water supplies, state regulatory requirements, notices, or orders, and determine if a water shortage emergency exists or is imminent within the Crescent City water service area.

The results of the Annual Assessment will be communicated to the Public Works Director and the City Manager.

The City Manager will report the findings of the Annual Assessment to the City Council before the end of June. The City Manager may recommend a water shortage emergency resolution to the city council if warranted.

If a water shortage emergency is declared, it will be communicated to the water customers, general public, interested parties, and local and regional government agencies utilizing any of the following methods: bill inserts, press releases, radio spots, social medial posts, and blog posts.

5.4 Compliance and Enforcement
Fines and penalties and enforcement are established in the Crescent City Municipal Code in Chapter 13.17.040 through 13.17.080 “Water Conservation”.

Enforcement actions include:
• Warnings, verbal and written (13.17.040);
• Installation of a flow-restricting device (13.17.040); • Water service surcharge (13.17.050), and;
• Termination of service (13.17.060).

5.5 Legal Authority
The legal authority for this Water Shortage Contingency Plan is contained in the Crescent City Muni
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cipal Code in amended Chapter 13.17.010 and 13.17.015.

City of Crescent City 15 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

6.0 FINANCIAL CONSEQUENCES OF WSCP ACTIVATION
During the implementation of the various water shortage emergency stages, there will be an impact on revenue and expenses for the City due to the anticipated demand reduction. Revenue from water sales will be reduced and expenses including electricity (pumping) and supplies (treatment chemicals).

Financial results will be closely monitored during any Water Shortage Emergency to ensure revenue is adequate.

In the event revenues decrease or are projected to decrease to a level impacting utility operations, the following options will be considered:
• Use of reserve funds if funds can be reduced to a level which still complies with other existing financial covenants;
• Use of capital improvement funds by deferring capital improvement projects as long as the deferment of projects does not pose a threat to public health or safety; and / or
• Implement excess use penalties.

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City of Crescent City 16 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

7.0 MONITORING AND REPORTING
During a declared water shortage emergency water production volumes will be reviewed monthly, including a calculation of Gallons Per Capita per Day (GPCD), and comparison to the same month of the year just prior to the declaration of a water shortage emergency.

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City of Crescent City 17 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

8.0 WSCP REFINEMENT PROCEDURES
Crescent City considers its WSCP as a dynamic tool that is the subject of refinements as needed to ensure that its shortage response actions are effective and to produce the desired results. If certain procedural refinements or new actions are identified by City staff, or suggested by customers or other interested parties, the City should have an identified mechanism to evaluate their effectiveness, incorporate them into the WSCP, and implement them quickly at the appropriate water shortage level .

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City of Crescent City 18 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

9.0 SPECIAL WATER FEATURE DISTINCTION
The City of Crescent City is not aware of any water features that use potable water without a recirculation system.

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City of Crescent City 19 June 2021
Water Shortage Contingency Plan Freshwater Environmental Services

10.0 PLAN ADOPTION, SUBMITTAL, AND AVAILABILITY
The following steps will be used for the WSCP adoption, submittal, and to make it available to the public:
• Notification of public hearing – Crescent City will notify cities, counties, and the public that they will be reviewing its WSCP and considering changes or amendments - At least 60 days prior to public hearing.
• Notification to the public – Crescent City will provide two notifications - Published in a local newspaper at least once a week for two successive weeks prior to the City Council meeting (public hearing).
• Public hearing and optional adoption – The City will allow for community input, considering economic impacts, and can be combined with the adoption meeting as long as the public hearing is on the agenda before the adoption.
• Adoption – The adoption hearing is for the City Council to formally adopt the WSCP.
• Plan submittal – Crescent City will update and submit its 2020 WSCP to DWR by July 1, 2021.
• Plan availability - No later than 30 days after adoption – Crescent City will submit the WSCP to the California State Library and all cities and counties within which the City provides water. • Amending an adopted the WSCP – If the City amends an adopted WSCP, each of the steps for notification, public hearing, adoption, and submittal must also be followed for the amended plan.

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APPENDIX A
CALIFORNIA WATER CODE SECTION 350-359
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2009 California Water Code - Section 350-359 :: Chapter 3. Water Shortage Emergencies

WATER CODE
SECTION 350-359
350. The governing body of a distributor of a public water supply, whether publicly or privately owned and including a mutual water company, may declare a water shortage emergency condition to prevail within the area served by such distributor whenever it finds and determines that the ordinary demands and requirements of water consumers cannot be satisfied without depleting the water supply of the distributor to the extent that there would be insufficient water for human consumption, sanitation, and fire protection.
351. Excepting in event of a breakage or failure of a dam, pump, pipe line or conduit causing an immediate emergency, the declaration shall be made only after a public hearing at which consumers of such water supply shall have an opportunity to be heard to protest against the declaration and to present their respective needs to said governing board.
352. Notice of the time and place of hearing shall be published pursuant to Section 6061 of the Government Code at least seven days prior to the date of hearing in a newspaper printed, published, and circulated within the area in which the water supply is distributed, or if there is no such newspaper, in any newspaper printed, published, and circulated in the county in which the area is located.
353. When the governing body has so determined and declared the existence of an emergency condition of water shortage within its service area, it shall thereupon adopt such regulations and restrictions on the delivery of water and the consumption within said area of water supplied for public use as will in the sound discretion of such governing body conserve the water supply for the greatest public benefit with particular regard to domestic use, sanitation, and fire protection.
354. After allocating and setting aside the amount of water which in the opinion of the governing body will be necessary to supply water needed for domestic use, sanitation, and fire protection, the regulations may establish priorities in the use of water for other purposes and provide for the allocation, distribution, and delivery
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of water for such other purposes,
without discrimination between consumers using water for the same purpose or purposes.
355. The regulations and restrictions shall thereafter be and remain in full force and effect during the period of the emergency and until the supply of water available for
distribution within such area has been replenished or augmented. 356. The regulations and restrictions may include the right to deny applications for new or additional service connections, and provision for their enforcement by discontinuing service to consumers wilfully violating the regulations and restrictions. 357. If the regulations and restrictions on delivery and consumption of water adopted pursuant to this chapter conflict with any law establishing the rights of individual consumers to receive either specific or proportionate amounts of the water supply available for distribution within such service area, the regulations and restrictions adopted pursuant to this chapter shall prevail over the provisions of such laws relating to water rights for the duration of the period of emergency; provided, however, that any distributor of water which is subject to regulation by the State Public Utilities Commission shall before making such regulations and restrictions effective secure the approval thereof by the Public Utilities
Commission.
358. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit or prevent review by any court of competent jurisdiction of any finding or determination by a governing board of the existence of an emergency or of regulations or restrictions adopted by such board, pursuant to this chapter, on the ground that any such action is fraudulent, arbitrary, or capricious.
359. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law that requires an election for the purpose of authorizing a contract with the United States, or for incurring the obligation to repay loans from the United States, and except as otherwise limited or prohibited by the California Constitution, a public water agency, as an alternative
procedure to submitting the proposal to an election, upon affirmative vote of four-fifths of the members of the governing body thereof, may apply for, accept, provide for the repayment together with interest thereon, and use funds made available by the federal government pursuant to Public Law 95-18, pursuant to any other federal act subsequently enacted during 1977 that specifically
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provides emergency drought relief financing, or
pursuant to existing federal relief programs receiving budget augmentations in 1977 for drought assistance, and may enter into contracts that are required to obtain those federal funds pursuant to the provisions of those federal acts if the following conditions exist:
(1) The project is undertaken by a state, regional, or local governmental agency.
(2) As a result of the severe drought now existing in many parts of the state, the agency has insufficient water supply needed to meet necessary agricultural, domestic, industrial, recreational, and fish and wildlife needs within the service area or area of jurisdiction of the agency.
(3) The project will develop or conserve water before October 31, 1978, and will assist in mitigating the impacts of the drought.
(4) The agency affirms that it will comply, if applicable, with Sections 1602, 1603, and 1605 of the Fish and Game Code. (5) The project will be completed on or before the completion date, if any, required under the federal act providing the funding, but not later than March 1, 1978.
(b) Any obligation to repay loans shall be expressly limited to revenues of the system improved by the proceeds of the contract.
(c) No application for federal funds pursuant to this section shall be made on or after March 1, 1978.
(d) Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, a public agency shall not be exempt from any provision of law that requires the submission of a proposal to an election if a petition requesting such an election signed by 10 percent of the registered voters within the public agency is presented to the governing board within 30 days following the submission of an application for federal funds.
(e) Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, a public water agency that applied for federal funds for a project before January 1, 1978, may make application to the Director of the Drought Emergency Task Force for extension of the required completion date specified in paragraph (5) of subdivision (b).

Following receipt of an application for extension, the Director of the Drought Emergency Task Force may extend the required completion date specified in
paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) to a date not later than September 30, 1978, if the director finds that the project has been delayed by factors not controllable by the public water agency. If the Drought Emergency Task Force is dissolved, the Director of Water Resources shall exercise the authority vested in the Director of the Drought Emergency Task Force pursuant to this section.

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(f) For the purposes of this section, "public water agency" means a city, district, agency, authority, or any other political subdivision of the state, except the state, that distributes water to the inhabitants thereof, is otherwise authorized by law to enter into contracts or agreements with the federal government for a water supply or for financing
facilities for a water supply, and is otherwise required by law to submit those agreements or contracts or any other project involving long-term debt to an election within that public water agency.

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APPENDIX B
CALIFORNIA WATER CODE SECTION 10632
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10632.
(a) Every urban water supplier shall prepare and adopt a water shortage contingency plan as part of its urban water management plan that consists of each of the following elements:
(1) The analysis of water supply reliability conducted pursuant to Section 10635.
(2) The procedures used in conducting an annual water supply and demand assessment that include, at a minimum, both of the following:
(A) The written decision making process that an urban water supplier will use each year to determine its water supply reliability. (B) The key data inputs and assessment methodology used to evaluate the urban water supplier’s water supply reliability for the current year and one dry year, including all of the following:
(i) Current year unconstrained demand, considering weather, growth, and other influencing factors, such as policies to manage current supplies to meet demand objectives in future years, as applicable.
(ii) Current year available supply, considering hydrological and regulatory conditions in the current year and one dry year. The annual supply and demand assessment may consider more than one dry year solely at the discretion of the urban water supplier.
(iii) Existing infrastructure capabilities and plausible constraints. (iv) A defined set of locally applicable evaluation criteria that are consistently relied upon for each annual water supply and demand assessment. (v) A description and quantification of each source of water supply. (3) (A) Six standard water shortage levels corresponding to progressive ranges of up to 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 percent shortages and greater than 50 percent shortage. Urban water suppliers shall define these shortage levels based on the suppliers’ water supply conditions, including percentage reductions in water supply, changes in groundwater levels, changes in surface elevation or level of subsidence, or other changes in hydrological or other local conditions indicative of the water supply available for use.

Shortage levels shall also apply to catastrophic interruption of water supplies, including, but not limited to, a regional power outage, an earthquake, and other potential emergency events.
(B) An urban water supplier with an existing water shortage contingency plan that uses different water shortage levels may comply with the requirement in subparagraph (A) by developing and including a crossreference relating its existing categories to the six standard water shortage levels.

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(4) Shortage response actions that align with the defined shortage levels and include, at a minimum, all of the following:
(A) Locally appropriate supply augmentation actions.
(B) Locally appropriate demand reduction actions to adequately respond to shortages.
(C) Locally appropriate operational changes.
(D) Additional, mandatory prohibitions against specific water use practices that are in addition to state-mandated prohibitions and appropriate to the local conditions.
(E) For each action, an estimate of the extent to which the gap between supplies and demand will be reduced by implementation of the action. (5) Communication protocols and procedures to inform customers, the public, interested parties, and local, regional, and state governments, regarding, at a minimum, all of the following:
(A) Any current or predicted shortages as determined by the annual water supply and demand assessment described pursuant to Section 10632.1. (B) Any shortage response actions triggered or anticipated to be triggered by the annual water supply and demand assessment described pursuant to Section 10632.1.
(C) Any other relevant communications.
(6) For an urban retail water supplier, customer compliance, enforcement, appeal, and exemption procedures for triggered shortage response actions as determined pursuant to Section 10632.2.
(7) (A) A description of the legal authorities that empower the urban water supplier to implement and enforce its shortage response actions specified in paragraph (4) that may include, but are not limited to, statutory authorities, ordinances, resolutions, and contract provisions.
(B) A statement that an urban water supplier shall declare a water shortage emergency in accordance with Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 350) of Division 1.
(C) A statement that an urban water supplier shall coordinate with any city or county within which it provides water supply services for the possible proclamation of a local emergency, as defined in Section 8558 of the Government Code.
(8) A description of the financial consequences of, and responses for, drought conditions, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

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(A) A description of potential revenue reductions and expense increases associated with activated shortage response actions described in paragraph (4).
(B) A description of mitigation actions needed to address revenue reductions and expense increases associated with activated shortage response actions described in paragraph (4).
(C) A description of the cost of compliance with Chapter 3.3 (commencing with Section 365) of Division 1.
(9) For an urban retail water supplier, monitoring and reporting requirements and procedures that ensure appropriate data is collected, tracked, and analyzed for purposes of monitoring customer compliance and to meet state reporting requirements.
(10) Reevaluation and improvement procedures for systematically monitoring and evaluating the functionality of the water shortage contingency plan in order to ensure shortage risk tolerance is adequate and appropriate water shortage mitigation strategies are implemented as needed.
(b) For purposes of developing the water shortage contingency plan pursuant to subdivision (a), an urban water supplier shall analyze and define water features that are artificially supplied with water, including ponds, lakes, waterfalls, and fountains, separately from swimming pools and spas, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 115921 of the Health and Safety Code.
(c) The urban water supplier shall make available the water shortage contingency plan prepared pursuant to this article to its customers and any city or county within which it provides water supplies no later than 30 days after adoption of the water shortage contingency plan.
(Repealed and added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 14, Sec. 32. (SB 606) Effective January 1, 2019.)
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APPENDIX D

DEL NORTE COUNTY OPERATIONAL AREA HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN DRAFT
2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan
Volume 2—Jurisdictional Annexes
December 2025
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2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
December 2025
Tetra Tech Project Number 105S045034

PREPARED FOR PREPARED BY
County of Del Norte
981 H Street
Suite 210
Crescent City, CA 95531
Tetra Tech, Inc.
2301 Lucien Way #120
Maitland, FL 32751
Phone: 321-441-
8500
www.tetratech.com
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Table of Contents
iii 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................ 1-1

2. UNINCORPORATED COUNTY OF DEL NORTE........................................................................... 2-1

3. CITY OF CRESCENT CITY............................................................................................................ 3-1

4. BIG ROCK COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT........................................................................... 4-1

5. CRESCENT FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT.................................................................................. 5-1

6. ELK VALLEY RANCHERIA ........................................................................................................... 6-1

7. GASQUET COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT ........................................................................... 7-1

8. HRC COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT..................................................................................... 8-1

9. KLAMATH COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT ........................................................................... 9-1

10. SMITH RIVER FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT .......................................................................... 10-1

11. SMITH RIVER COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT.................................................................. 11-1

APPENDICES
Appendix A: Participating Jurisdiction Letters of Intent DRAFT

1. Introduction
1-1 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) encourages multi-jurisdictional planning for local hazard mitigation. Such planning efforts can generate a unified local voice on hazard mitigation, with cross-jurisdictional support for a hazard mitigation plan’s recommended mitigation action. They also help to form working relationships among participants’ emergency managers, floodplain administrations, and other development agencies (FEMA 2021). Eligible participants for multijurisdiction hazard mitigation plans are local governments defined as follows in Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 201 (Mitigation Planning):
“Any county, municipality, city, town, township, public authority, school district, special district, intrastate district, council of governments (regardless of whether the council of governments is incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under State law), regional or interstate government entity, or agency or instrumentality of a local government; any Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, or Alaska Native village or organization; and any rural community, unincorporated town or village, or other public entity.” (44 CFR Section 201.2)
In multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation planning, every participating jurisdiction must meet the federal requirements for local mitigation planning. This means that each jurisdiction must actively participate in the planning process and must officially adopt the plan (44 CFR Section 201.6a(4)).

For the Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP), a Planning Partnership was formed to leverage resources and to meet the federal local mitigation planning requirements for as many eligible governments in the County as possible. Members of the Planning Partnership consisted of representatives from each participating jurisdiction. Del Norte County was the lead agency for this planning effort and directed the planning process with assistance from a contract planning consultant (Tetra Tech). A Steering Committee with broad representation across the county provided guidance and direction for the HMP planning process. Each participating planning partner has prepared a jurisdictional annex to this plan.

This chapter describes the Del Norte County HMP Planning Partnership, its responsibilities throughout the planning process, and the jurisdictional annexes developed as a result of the plan update efforts.

The remaining chapters in this volume of the HMP present the annexes for each participating jurisdiction.

1.2 PLANNING PARTNER INVOLVEMENT

1.2.1 Initial Solicitation and Letters of Intent
Del Norte County solicited the participation of all eligible jurisdictions in the County at the commencement of this project. All
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jurisdictions interested signed a letter of intent and/or a resolution

1. Introduction
1-2 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
committing their participation and resources to the development of the Del Norte County HMP (Appendix A). The following is a list of the jurisdictions that participated in the update process and have met the minimum requirements of participation as established by the County and the Steering Committee:
• Unincorporated Del Norte County
• City of Crescent City
• Big Rock Community Services District
• Crescent Fire Protection District
• Elk Valley Rancheria
• Gasquet Community Services District
• HRC Community Services District
• Klamath Community Services District
• Smith River Community Services District
• Smith River Fire Protection District

1.2.2 Planning Partner Expectations
The following list of planning partner expectations was agreed to in each letter of intent to participate:
• Identify municipal representatives to serve as
the planning points of contact. These people
were responsible for representing the
community and assuring that these
participation expectations are met by their
community.
• Support the Steering Committee selected to
oversee the development of this plan.
• Provide representation at municipal Planning Committee meetings • Provide data and information about the community as requested by the Steering Committee or the contract consultant, including:
• Structure and facility inventory data
• New development and anticipated development
• Natural hazard risk areas
• Natural hazard events and losses that have impacted the community in the last five years • Plans, studies, reports, and ordinances addressing natural hazard risk • Mitigation activity in the community in the last five years, including progress on previously identified mitigation actions.
• Support public outreach efforts in the community, which may include:
• Providing notices of the planning project on the municipal website with links to a County project website
• Providing notice of the planning project, the availability of plan documents, and notice of public meetings via available local media (e.g. newsletters, flyers, email blasts, social media, etc.)
• Advertising and supporting public meetings in the area The Planning Partnership is responsible for
developing and reviewing draft sections of the
hazard mitigation plan, creating the mitigation
strategy for their jurisdiction, and adopting the
final plan. Members of the Planning Partnership
have the expertise to develop the plan and
have their jurisdiction’s authority to implement
the mitigation strategy developed during the
planning process.

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1. Introduction
1-3 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Supporting outreach to National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Repetitive Loss and Severe Repetitive Loss property owners in the community. • Assist with the identification of stakeholders within the community who should be informed and potentially involved with the planning process.
• Complete data and information collection survey forms in a timely manner. • Identify specific mitigation actions to address each of the natural hazards posing significant (or high or medium) risk to the community.
• Involve the local NFIP Floodplain Administrator in the planning process. • Review draft plan sections when requested and provide comment and input as appropriate. • Adopt the plan by resolution of the local governing body after FEMA conditional approval. • Periodically provide the Steering Committee with reports of municipal staff and volunteer labor spent on the planning process.

Under the plan implementation and maintenance protocol established in Volume 1 of the HMP, it is intended that the Planning Partnership will remain active to support the maintenance of the HMP after the plan has been adopted. By adopting this plan, each planning partner agrees to the plan implementation and maintenance protocol. Given that individual commitments change over time, it will be the responsibility of each jurisdiction and its points of contact to inform the County’s coordinator for this HMP of any changes in representation.

1.3 JURISDICTIONAL ANNEX PREPARATION PROCESS
Jurisdictional annexes provide a unique, stand-alone guide to mitigation planning for each jurisdiction participating in a multi-jurisdiction HMP. The 2025 Del Norte County HMP is organized so that there is an annex for the unincorporated parts of Del Norte County and for every jurisdiction within the County’s borders. This volume of the HMP includes an annex for each jurisdiction in Del Norte County, including those that did not fully participate.

Workshops and additional meetings (in person, by email, or by teleconference) to complete the jurisdictional annexes were held with the County, the contract consultant, and the Steering Committee throughout the planning process. Details regarding these meetings are described further in Volume 1.

1.3.1 Incorporation of Information from Previous HMP
In order to facilitate the update of the jurisdictional annexes, data from the 2019 Del Norte County HMP annexes was transferred to the most current annex format, which has evolved to meet changing federal and state criteria. Clear instructions were provided to the representatives of each planning partner. This transfer of information provided a basis to address the following:
• Changes in local capabilities and vulnerabilities
• The current status of the 2019 HMP mitigation strategy • A new mitigation strategy to address identified issues and to increase community resiliency DRAFT

1. Introduction
1-4 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

1.3.2 Kickoff Meeting
The County invited all municipalities to participate in a planning partner kickoff meeting held on September 6, 2024, to provide an overview of the planning process, including meetings and worksheets that would be used to gather information for annex preparation. Key elements of the worksheets were discussed and subsequently completed by the appropriate jurisdictional personnel for each worksheet.

The worksheets were collected, and the information was incorporated into each jurisdictional annex. In the event additional information was needed, the jurisdictional point of contact was contacted to provide more input into their annex.

1.3.3 Hazard Ranking Exercise
At the risk assessment meeting on May 15, 2022, the consultant summarized the findings of the risk assessment for the hazards of concern evaluated in this HMP, including an initial ranking of hazards using the risk-related ranking methodology described in Volume 1. Each planning partner was asked to review the hazard ranking for its jurisdiction and revise as appropriate based on history of events, probability of occurrence, and the potential impact on people, property, and the economy. This exercise familiarized the planning partners with how to use the risk assessment as a tool to support other planning and hazard mitigation processes and to help prioritize types of mitigation actions that should be considered. Hazards that were ranked as “high” for each jurisdiction as a result of this exercise were considered to be priorities for identifying appropriate mitigation actions, although jurisdictions also identified actions to mitigate “medium” or “low” ranked hazards as appropriate.

1.3.4 Mitigation Strategy Workshop
A mitigation strategy workshop was held on March 20, 2025, to provide an overview on how to develop a strong mitigation strategy. In preparation for this workshop, the consultant provided a list of problem areas and vulnerabilities identified during the planning process, along with feedback from the citizen survey, to support the development of relevant projects for the mitigation strategy. Workshop participants received the following FEMA publications to use as a resource as part of a comprehensive review of all possible activities and mitigation measures to address hazards of concern:
• FEMA 551 “Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures” (March 2007) • FEMA “Mitigation Ideas—A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards” (January 2013) This workshop included the development of focused problem statements based on the impacts of natural hazards in the County and its communities. These problem statements provide detailed descriptions of problem areas, including known impacts on the jurisdiction (past damage, loss of service, etc.). Where possible, the statements include the street address of the problem location, adjacent streets, water bodies, and well-known structures as well as a brief description of existing site conditions (topography, terrain, hydrology). The problem statements form a bridge between the risk assessment (which quantifies impacts on each community), the capability assessment (which identifies capabilities for reducing hazard risks and supporting hazard mitigation), and the development of actionable mitigation strategies.

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1. Introduction
1-5 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
The County and the mitigation consultant worked with each jurisdiction to identify clear, implementable mitigation actions and to further support the completion of the jurisdictional annexes.

1.4 JURISDICTIONAL ANNEX FORMAT
The jurisdictional annex format is designed to document local compliance with the 44 CFR local mitigation planning regulations. It also achieves the following:
• Providing a locally relevant synthesis of the overall mitigation plan that can be readily presented, distributed, and maintained
• Facilitating local understanding of the community’s risk from natural hazards • Facilitating local understanding of the community’s capabilities to manage natural hazard risk, including opportunities to improve those capabilities
• Facilitating local understanding of the efforts the community has taken, and plans to take, to reduce its natural hazard risk
• Facilitating the implementation of mitigation strategies, including the development of grant applications
• Providing a framework by which the community can continue to capture relevant data and information for future plan updates
The following are the elements of the jurisdictional annex. • Section X.1: Hazard Mitigation Planning Team: Identifies the hazard mitigation planning primary and alternate contacts and floodplain administrator. Provides details on which departments were involved in the development of the jurisdictional annex. The widest range of departments, stakeholders, and people familiar with the jurisdiction should be involved in the development of the jurisdictional annexes. Further details on participants is provided in Volume 1.
• Section X.2: Community Profile: Provides a profile of the jurisdiction, including population and socially vulnerably populations.
• Section X.3: Public Engagement: Describes the outreach to the public that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. This section focuses on the public invited to participate in the planning process by the County. • Section X.4: Stakeholder Engagement: Describes the outreach to stakeholders that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. This section focuses on the stakeholders invited to participate in the planning process by the County. • Section X.5: Jurisdictional Capability Assessment and Integration: Provides an inventory and evaluation of the jurisdiction’s tools, mechanisms, and resources available to support hazard mitigation and natural hazard risk reduction. Tables provide an inventory of the jurisdiction’s planning, regulatory, administrative, technical, and fiscal capabilities, its level of participation in state and federal programs designed to promote and incentivize local risk reduction efforts
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, and its adaptive capacity to adjust to damage and respond to consequences.

1. Introduction
1-6 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Section X.6: National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Compliance: Summarizes jurisdiction-specific information related to managing and regulating the regulatory floodplain, including current and future compliance with the NFIP.
• Section X.7: Jurisdictional Risk Assessment: Provides information regarding each jurisdiction’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. Full data and information on the hazards of concern, the methodology used to develop the vulnerability assessments, and the results of those assessments that serve as the basis of these local hazard rankings may be found in Volume 1.
• Hazard Area: Each annex includes a map (or series of maps) illustrating identified hazard zones and critical facilities. The maps also show areas of known or anticipated future development, as available.
• Hazard Event History: Identifies hazard events that have caused significant impacts within the jurisdiction, including a summary characterization of those impacts identified by the jurisdiction.
• Hazard Ranking and Vulnerabilities: Each jurisdiction has differing degrees of risk exposure and vulnerability. The local hazard ranking identifies each jurisdiction’s local degree of risk to each hazard, supporting the selection and prioritization of actions to reduce the highest levels of risk for each community.
• Identified Issues: Presents other specific hazard vulnerabilities as identified by the jurisdiction.
• Section X.8: Conditions that May Impact Risk: Summarizes future conditions that may impact the jurisdiction’s vulnerability and risk.
• Population Pattern Changes: recent and expected population changes and the expected impact on hazards within the jurisdiction.
• Changes in Land Use and Development: recent and expected future development trends, including major residential/commercial development and major infrastructure development. • Section X.9: Mitigation Strategy and Prioritization: Discusses and provides the status of past mitigation actions and status and describes proposed hazard mitigation actions and prioritization.
• Past Mitigation Action Status: Where applicable, a review of progress on the jurisdiction’s prior mitigation strategy is presented, identifying the disposition of each prior action in the jurisdiction’s updated mitigation strategy. Other completed or ongoing mitigation activities that were not specifically part of a prior local mitigation strategy may be included in this subsection as well.
• Completed Mitigation Actions Not Identified in the Previous Mitigation Strategy: Other completed or ongoing mitigation activities that were not specifically part of a prior local mitigation strategy may be included in this subsection as well. • Changes in Priorities: Changes in jurisdiction priorities since the last HMP update. • Proposed Hazard Mitigation Actions for the Plan Update: Tables and action worksheets at the end of each annex
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present the jurisdiction’s updated mitigation strategy, a summary

1. Introduction
1-7 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
of the local mitigation strategy prioritization and a summary of the action categories and hazards addressed.

Each jurisdiction’s annex is a living document that will continue to be improved as resources permit.

Continued efforts to maintain the annex will ensure that it remains current and will improve its effectiveness as the key tool, reference, and guiding document by which the jurisdiction will implement hazard mitigation locally.

1.5 COVERAGE UNDER THE PLAN
All 9 of the original planning partners fully met the participation requirements specified by the Steering Committee and have annexes included in this volume. Those that did not meet the requirements will not be able to seek FEMA or state approval at the time of plan submittal, nor will they be eligible to obtain FEMA grant funding. Table 1-1 lists the status of each jurisdiction. Note that participation in scheduled Planning Partnership meetings provides only a partial indication of the level of participation of each jurisdiction. Appendices in Volume 1 provide details on further participation and meeting attendance.

Table 1-1. Jurisdictional Status
Planning Partner
Letter of Intent
to Participate
Attended
Workshops,
Meetings, and
Calls
Provided
Update on Past
Projects
Submitted
Mitigation
Actions for
Current Plan
Seeking Approval
for Adoption
(meets all previous
requirements)
Unincorporated Del
Norte County

X X X X X
City of Crescent City X X X X X
Big Rock CSD X X X X X
Gasquet CSD X X X X X

HRC CSD X X - X X
Klamath CSD X X X X X
Smith River CSD X X X X X
Crescent Fire Protection
District

X X X X X
Smith River Fire
Protection District

X X X X X
Elk Valley Rancheria X X X X X
HRC CSD did not participate in the 2019 HMP and did not have past projects to update.

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2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-1 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

2. UNINCORPORATED COUNTY OF DEL NORTE
This jurisdictional annex provides information to assist public and private sectors in the County of Del Norte with reducing losses from future hazard events. This annex is not guidance on what to do when a disaster occurs; its focus is on actions that can be implemented prior to a disaster to reduce or eliminate damage to property and people. The annex presents a general overview of the unincorporated areas of Del Norte County, describes who participated in the planning process, assesses the unincorporated County’s risk, vulnerability, and capabilities, and outlines a strategy for achieving a more resilient community.

2.1 HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING TEAM
The County of Del Norte identified primary and alternate HMP points of contact and developed this plan over the course of several months, with input from many County departments. Deborah Otenberg, Emergency Services Manager, Del Norte County Office of Emergency Services, represented the community on the Del Norte County HMP Planning Partnership and Steering Committee, and supported the local planning process by securing input from persons with specific knowledge to enhance the plan. All departments were asked to contribute to the annex development through reviewing and contributing to the capability assessment, reporting on the status of previously identified actions, and participating in action identification and prioritization.

Table 2-1 summarizes Del Norte officials who participated in the development of the annex and in what capacity. Additional documentation of the Del Norte’s planning activities through Planning Partnership meetings is included in Volume 1.

Table 2-1. Hazard Mitigation Planning Team
Primary Point of Contact Alternate Point of Contact
Name/Title: Deborah Otenberg, Emergency Services
Manager, Del Norte County Office of Emergency Services
Address: 981 H Street, Suite 240 Crescent City CA 95531 Phone Number: 707-464-7255
Email: [email protected]
Name/Title: Christina Smith, Fiscal Manager, Del Norte
County Office of Emergency Services
Address: 981 H Street, Suite 110 Crescent City CA 95531 Phone Number: 707-464-7214
Email: [email protected]
National Flood Insurance Program Floodplain Administrator Name/Title: Heidi Kunstal, Director of Community Development Address: 981 H Street, Suite, Crescent City, CA
Phone Number: 707-464-7254
Email: [email protected]
Additional Contributors
Name/Title: Jessica Seaman, Emergency Services Coordinator, Del Norte County Office of Emergency Services Method of Participation: Community outreach, meeting attendance Name/Title: Jon Olson, County Engineer, Del Norte County Community Development Department Method of Participation: Contributed to worksheets
Name/Title: Rosanna Bower, Assistant County Engineer, Del Norte County Community Development Department DRAFT
Method of Participation: Contributed to worksheets

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-2 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Primary Point of Contact Alternate Point of Contact
Name/Title: Neal Lopez, Del Norte County Administrative Officer Method of Participation: Contributed to worksheets, reviewed draft plan Name/Title: Randy Hooper, Assistant County Administrative Officer Method of Participation: Contributed to worksheets, reviewed draft plan

2.2 COMMUNITY PROFILE
Del Norte County is approximately 350 miles north of San Francisco located along U.S. Highway 101, at the far northwest corner of the state and represents the border between the states of Oregon and California, along the coast. The county has a total area of 1,230 square miles, of which 222 square miles (18.05 percent) is water. Two National Forests, the Six Rivers and Rogue River-Siskiyou, are partially located within Del Norte County. The Six Rivers National Forest includes the Smith River National Recreation Area which is managed by the United States Forest Service as well as portions of the Siskiyou Wilderness. The county is home to a portion of the Redwood National and State Parks which include the Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park and Jedediah Smith State Park; in addition, the county is home to the Tolowa Dunes State Park, Ruby Van Deventer County Park, and Florence Keller County Park. Nearly 80 percent of the land mass in Del Norte County is owned by public entities including federal, state, and local governments as well as federally recognized tribes. There is one incorporated city, Crescent City (the county seat), located in the county as well as several unincorporated communities including Big Flat/Rock Creek, Fort Dick, Gasquet, Hiouchi, Klamath, and Smith River.

Del Norte County is the ancestral homeland of the Tolowa Dee-ni’, Yurok Tribe, Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People, and Elk Valley Rancheria. All four federally recognized tribes stewarding distinct heritage and territory. The Yurok Tribe, one of California’s largest, has maintained a profound spiritual, economic, and cultural dependence on the Klamath River, and over time, has reclaimed significant ancestral lands in the Blue Creek watershed. The Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People was established to provide trust land for landless Indigenous families. Despite devastating floods in 1964 that destroyed tribal infrastructure, they re-formed a governing council in 1975 and continue to uphold their cultural lifeways along the lower Klamath River. The Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation holds approximately 805 acres near Smith River and sustains a membership of over 1,800 citizens who continue their language, traditional management of redwood forests, and cultural practices. Elk Valley Rancheria was founded under the Landless California Indians Act of 1906 as a refuge for displaced Tolowa and Yurok people. The Elk Valley Rancheria is a federally recognized tribe located near Crescent City. Their membership includes descendants of Tolowa and Yurok ancestries, and they emphasize cultural preservation and community resilience rooted in ancestral ties.

Del Norte County is a general law county. The Board of Supervisors, which serves as the legislative and executive body for the county and many special districts, consists of five fulltime members with one member elected from each district. Pursuant to the California Government Code, the Board enacts legislation governing Del Norte County, determines overall policies for County departments, adopts the annual budget and fixes salaries. The Del Norte County Board of Supervisors assumes responsibility for the adoption of this plan and the Del Norte County Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with other local agencies, will oversee its implementation.

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2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-3 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

2.3 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to the public that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. Del Norte County is sparsely populated with the majority of government and private services available in Crescent City, including grocery stores, hardware stores, and restaurants. The County posted information about the HMP update on the County Facebook page and on the OES website. Flyers advertising the HMP update were canvassed across Crescent City. The public was invited to participate in the planning process by responding to the public survey, attending a virtual Steering Committee meeting, attending an in-person meeting, and reviewing the draft plan.

In April, Del Norte OES hosted a training by the Rural Domestic Preparedness Consortium about preparedness planning for underserved populations in rural areas. At the training, OES staff provided a brief update about the status of the HMP and printed hazard mitigation materials were available for participants. Figure 2-1 shows the training class and hazard mitigation materials.

Figure 2-1. Public Outreach by Del Norte County
Considering the rural lifestyle of the County, OES staff made a major effort to post printed materials in community gathering spaces in Crescent City and unincorporated areas. Further evidence of this outreach is presented in the remaining chapters of this annex. Figure 2-2 shows the flyer that was posted in Crescent City, Gasquet, Smith River,
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and Hiouchi.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-4 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Figure 2-2. Hazard Mitigation Plan Flyers

2.3.1 Public Feedback Integration
Of the 196 responses to the public survey, 96 respondents reported that they were located in the unincorporated county. These 96 respondents were extremely or very concerned about excessive rain, tsunami, and wildfire. Respondents were not as concerned about drought and extreme heat. They reported receiving emergency information through mass notifications, government websites and newsletters, public meetings, television and radio, and Facebook. They expressed concern about wildfire in Gasquet, the closure of major highways, and power outages. The mitigation strategy was prioritized with these concerns and community limitations in mind.

2.4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to stakeholders that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. This section focuses on the stakeholders invited to participate in the planning process
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by the County. The following organizations were invited to

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-5 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
participate by attending a Steering Committee meeting, responding to the stakeholder survey, contributing information and expertise to the plan, and reviewing the draft plan.

2.4.1 Local and Regional Agencies Involved in Hazard Mitigation Activities • Border Coast Regional Airport Authority
• Crescent City Harbor District
• Del Norte Regional Transportation Commission
• Del Norte Solid Waste Management Authority
• Elk Valley Rancheria
• Fire Safe Council
• Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People (formerly Resighini Rancheria) • Redwood Coast Regional Center
• Redwood Coast Transit
• Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation
• Yurok Tribe

2.4.2 Agencies that Have the Authority to Regulate Development • Del Norte Community Development Department

2.4.3 Neighboring Communities
• Curry County, OR
• Humboldt County
• Josephine County, OR
• Siskiyou County

2.4.4 Representatives of Business, Academia, and Other Private Organizations
• Del Norte Unified School District
• Pacific Power

2.4.5 Nonprofit Organizations and Community-Based Organizations • Del Norte and Tribal Lands Community Food Council
• Mission Possible
• Open Door Community Clinic
• Red Cross Gold County
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2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-6 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

2.5 JURISDICTIONAL CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT AND INTEGRATION Del Norte County performed an inventory and analysis of existing capabilities, plans, programs, and policies that enhance its ability to implement mitigation strategies. Volume 1 describes the components included in the capability assessment and their significance for hazard mitigation planning. The jurisdictional assessment for this annex includes analyses of the following:
• Planning and regulatory capabilities
• Development and permitting capabilities
• Administrative and technical capabilities
• Fiscal capabilities
• Education and outreach capabilities
• Classification under various community mitigation programs • Adaptive capacity to withstand hazard events
For a community to succeed in reducing long-term risk, hazard mitigation must be integrated into dayto-day local government operations. For this HMP, planning and policy documents were reviewed and each jurisdiction was surveyed to obtain a better understanding of their progress toward plan integration. Development of an updated mitigation strategy provided an opportunity for Del Norte to identify opportunities for integrating mitigation concepts into ongoing county procedures.

2.5.1 Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Table 2-2 summarizes the planning and regulatory tools that are available to Del Norte County.

Table 2-2. Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Codes, Ordinances, & Regulations
Building Code Yes Del Norte County Code (DNCC)
§14.04: Building Codes
California Building Code (California
Code of Regulations, Title 24)
County Community
Development
Department
The County code sets forth multiple uniform industry codes as adopted by the State of California and applies to the unincorporated areas. The code includes provisions for several amendments relevant to risk reduction, such as regulating footing design to reduce structural damage from landslides or other soil movement events. The County Community Development Department’s Building Inspection Division is responsible for the review and processing of permits for construction activities. The code does not apply to manufactured homes; the State Housing and Community Development has building permit jurisdiction in licensed manufactured home/RV parks.

Does the building code have provisions to strengthen or elevate construction to withstand hazard forces? Not beyond the state building code requirement and local flood ordinances.

Are there building codes in place that meet or exceed those outlined in the National Flood Insurance Program’s guidelines for safe building practices? Yes, we meet the standard. We haven’t adopted standards to exceed the NFIP guidelines.

Do existing building codes include development standards for withstanding storm surge, wind damage, earthquakes, or other relevant natural hazards? Yes. State building codes & local flood ordinances.

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2-7 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Zoning/Land Use Code Yes DNCC §20: Zoning
DNCC §21: Coastal Zoning
County, State Community
Development
Department,
California Coastal
Commission
This zoning plan is adopted to provide for the promotion and protection of the public health, safety, peace, morals, comfort, convenience, and general welfare. The code includes provisions for risk reduction through the creation of multiple districts that identifies properties for which special regulations are necessary for the minimum protection of the public health and safety, and of property and improvements from hazards and damage.

The zoning code establishes three districts related to the flood hazard: FP-1 (Flood Zone Area Properties), FP-2 (Flood Overflow Area Properties), and FP-3 (Protected Areas Within Flood Zones). The code includes provisions that limit the types of uses and activities that can occur in flood-prone areas to minimize risk. Areas designated as Natural Hazard Area District (NH) are identified as potential natural hazard areas that are recommended for open space or very low density/intensity use. Land within the Timber Preserve Zone (TPZ) is to provide for timberland zoning and restrictions for a minimum ten-year period as a “timberland preserve.” The County has a certified Local Coastal Program as authorized under the California Coastal Act. The Local Coastal Program include a land use plan and implementation plan (i.e. zoning requirements. The latter sets forth additional requirements and standards for structures in the County’s coastal zone. Provisions include requirements to minimize potential risks associated with coastal bluff hazards, tsunamis, and erosion or slope failure as well requirements to reduce impacts to environmentally sensitive habitat areas such as coastal wetlands.

The County has a density bonus ordinance to encourage higher density development in suitable areas. As state laws are amended, the County follows the superseded state law.

Does the zoning ordinance conform to the comprehensive plan in terms of discouraging development or redevelopment within natural hazard areas? Yes.

Does the ordinance contain natural hazard overlay zones that set conditions for land use within such zones? Yes, those are referenced above.

Does the ordinance prohibit development within, or filling of, wetlands, floodways, and floodplains? Policies in the County’s General Plan, Local Coastal Plan, and Chapter. 21.11 RCA 2 addresses wetlands. US Army Corps of Engineers, Coastal Commission and the State Water Resources Control Board (North Cast Water Quality Control Board also regulated impacts to wetlands. Chapters 20.47 & Ch. 20.45 of Del Norte County Code for flooding (Flood Damage Prevention ordinances),
Is a zoning code in place to encourage resilient development through density bonuses for projects outside of natural hazard areas? The County has a density bonus ordinance. It does not specifically reference the encouragement of its use outside of natural hazard areas but it is implied that it is to encourage higher density development in suitable areas (i.e. limited impacts from natural hazards).

Do rezoning procedures recognize natural hazard areas as limits on zoning changes that allow greater intensity or density of use? There is nothing specific in our regulations but County staff considers constraints in any rezone application.

If applicable, is there a wildland-urban interface development code in place to prohibit or limit development in high wildfire risk areas? The County implements Chapter 7A of the California Building Code (CA WUI Code) and the State Minimum Fire Safe Regulations for new development within the designated areas.

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2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-8 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Subdivision Code Yes DNCC §Title16: Subdivisions
Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan: Section 3 – Land Use and
Development
County Community
Development
Department
The code applies to any subdivision that will create a parcel that does not have approved access to a maintained public street or highway and for which dedications or improvements are required by the legislative body. The subdivision code applies regulations and restrictions hillside development (i.e., land over 30 percent prior to grading) to minimize potential damage from instable slopes or other erosion hazards that may cause landslides or soil movement events.

The code also aims to conserve the County’s rural character in the Coastal Zone through the Rural Land Division Criteria by requiring developers to provide the area can support the additional density and uses. This provision supports conservation of the County’s environmental resources and limits large increases in density that may increase risk exposure.

Do the subdivision regulations restrict the subdivision of land within or next to natural hazard areas? While not included in Title 16 Subdivisions, the division of land in RCA Zones and TPZ zones are referenced in their respective chapters in Titles 20 and 21,
Do the regulations provide for conservation subdivisions or cluster subdivisions to conserve environmental resources? Yes, see Chapter 20.45 D District Combining and 21.36 D Combining District.

Do the regulations allow density transfers where hazard areas exist? No.

Site Plan Code Yes DNCC §22.04: Environmental
Guidelines and Procedures
County Community
Development
Department
The County code puts forth Environmental Guidelines and Procedures that establish a method of reviewing site plans for projects which may have a significant effect on the environment, including effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on humans. The County must evaluate the project’s benefits against its unavoidable environmental risks and, as relevant, identifies required mitigation standards that the developer must apply to minimize potential adverse impacts.

Stormwater
Management Code
Yes DNCC §7.36.140: Health and
Welfare - Erosion Control and
Screening
DNCC §12.04: Roads, Parks, and
Waterways - Urban and Rural
Public Road Standards
DNCC §14.05.070: Building and
Construction - Grading,
Excavating, and Filling
DNCC §20.47: Zoning - Flood
Damage Prevention
DNCC §21.45: Coastal Zoning -
Flood Damage Prevention
County/ Regional Community
Development
Department
North Coast Regional
Water Quality Control
Board
The County has multiple provisions that allow it to oversee stormwater management, including the following:

DNCC §7.36.140: Erosion Control and Screening – Surface mining operations must control surface drainage through the uses of dikes, barriers, and drainage structures to prevent stormwater from encroaching on state or county roads or private property. The county engineer must approve all provisions to control natural drainage and floodwaters during a surface mining operation.

DNCC §12.04: Urban and Rural Public Road Standards – Drainage improvements shall be designed to carry runoff from a twenty-five-year storm for arterial roads and from a ten-year storm for all other roads.

DNCC §14.05.070: Grading, Excavating, and Filling – Projects involving grading, excavating, and filling must submit plans for County review that assess existing area drainage and include detailed plans for proposed drainage channels, surface and subsurface drainage devices, and estimate runoff of the area served by any drains.

DNCC §20.47 & §21.45: Flood Damage Prevention – The code includes provisions that limit the types of uses and activities that can occur in flood
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2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-9 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Real Estate Disclosure Yes California Civil Code Section 1102 and 1103: Natural Hazard
Disclosure Statement
State Community
Development
Department
Sellers and agents must disclose if the property for sale is in one of six types of natural hazard zones: the Special Flood Hazard Area, dam failure inundation area, very high fire hazard zone, wildland fire area (i.e., state fire responsibility area), an earthquake fault zone, or a seismic hazard zone. For sales of certain properties, this disclosure must be made on a statutory form known as the Natural Hazard Disclosure Statement. Additionally, the Community Development Department provides natural hazard information for disclosure purposes to realtors as well as subdivision information to the Department of Real Estate for public records purposes.

Growth Management Yes DNCC §20: Zoning
DNCC §21: Coastal Zoning
Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan: Section 3: Land Use and
Development
County/ Regional County and CA
Coastal Commission
via Certified Local
Coastal Program
The code aims to conserve the County’s rural character in the Coastal Zone through the Rural Land Division Criteria by requiring developers to provide the area can support the additional density and uses. This provision supports conservation of the County’s environmental resources and limits large increases in density that may increase risk exposure.

Environmental
Protection
Ordinance(s)
Yes DNCC §20: Zoning
DNCC §21: Coastal Zoning
DNCC §22: Environmental
County Community
Development
Department
This County Code includes multiple provisions for the promotion and protection of the public health, safety, peace, morals, comfort, convenience, and general welfare specifically related to the conservation of natural resources and functions and associated hazards. The code includes provisions for risk reduction through the creation of multiple districts that identifies properties for which special regulations are necessary for the minimum protection of the public health and safety, and of property and improvements from hazards and damage.

Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance
Yes DNCC §20: Zoning
DNCC §21: Coastal Zoning
County Community
Development
Department
The Flood Damage Prevention ordinance identifies flood hazard areas that are subject to period inundation that results in loss of life and property and negative impacts to public health and general welfare. The ordinance includes provisions to reduce flood losses by restricting uses that may result in increased damage from erosion and flooding; requiring uses that are vulnerable to flood impacts be protected at the time of initial construction; controlling the alteration of natural floodplains, protective barriers, and other channels; controlling filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase flood damage; and regulating the construction of flood barriers that may increase flood hazards in other areas.

Emergency
Management Ordinance
Yes DNCC §2.60: Emergency
Organization and Function
County Del Norte Disaster
Council
Office of Emergency
Services
The code includes provisions to establish the Del Norte Disaster Council, enable the County to declare local emergencies, and empower the Director of Emergency Services to direct County efforts and cooperation between agencies to respond to emergencies and
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facilitate recovery activities.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-10 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Climate Change
Ordinance
Yes California Global Warming
Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly
Bill [AB] 32)
State California Air
Resources Board,
North Coast Unified
Air Quality
Management District
Del Norte County is subject to greenhouse gas regulations adopted by the California Air Resources Board and the North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District. The Regulation for the Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions is applicable to electricity generators, industrial facilities, fuel suppliers, and electricity importers. A summary of reported GHG emissions data reported under MRR are made public each year, and the data used by the Cap-andTrade Program and included in California Greenhouse Gas Inventory.

Other: Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance
Yes Del Norte County Model Water
Efficient Landscape Ordinance
(2020)
County Community
Development
Department
The ordinance promotes the conservation and efficient use of water and prevent water waste through landscaping practices and standards. Furthermore, it supports risk reduction by implementing proactive water conservation measures that may help reduce impacts or severity of drought or geological hazards.

Planning Documents
General Plan Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan - Section 2
Local Community
Development
Department
The General Plan includes goals and policies to minimize damage to structures, property, and infrastructure caused by seismic, geologic, fire, and flood hazards. It includes provisions for the County to evaluate proposed projects and land use policy decisions based on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), California Mines & Geology Division Geology and Geomorphology Maps, California Department of Forestry AB6 Risk Maps, and US Army Corps of Engineers tsunami Run-up maps. It encourages low intensity and occupancy uses for these hazard areas when feasible. The accompanying resolution is compliant with AB 2140.

Capital Improvement
Plan
Yes 2023-2028 Capital Improvement
Plan
Local Board of Supervisors,
Capital Improvements
Committee
The Capital Improvements Committee supports the County’s stated goal to “Identify, develop, and prioritize long range and short-range plans for meeting future buildings, facilities, roads, equipment, and recreational facility’s needs” and to “Do everything within our power to ensure the public is provided with adequate and efficient infrastructure (i.e. transportation, sewer, roads, cable, water, etc.).” The Committee meets and updates the plan on an as-needed basis.

Does the capital improvement program limit spending on projects that would encourage development in areas vulnerable to natural hazards? Yes, the Committee would analyze a project site to determine if it would be vulnerable to natural hazards. If a project site is determined to be subject to natural hazards that can’t be mitigated in a fiscally and environmentally sensitive way, would be avoided and alternative sites would be considered.

Do infrastructure policies limit extension of existing facilities and services that would encourage development in areas vulnerable to natural hazards? Yes.

Does the capital improvement program provide funding for hazard mitigation projects identified in the FEMA Mitigation Plan? Yes.

Disaster Debris
Management Plan
Yes Disaster Debris Management Plan
(2021)
County OEM
The Disaster Debris Management Plan provides guidance for post-disaster debris management to protect lives, health, safety, and the environment and to accelerate recovery. The plan will also provide a framework for the County as it pursues related hazard mitigation strategies, such as releasing a Request for Proposal for a post-disaster debris removal contract (DNC
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2-11 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Floodplain
Management or
Watershed Plan
Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan - Section 2: Safety and Noise
County Community
Development
Department
The General Plan includes goals and policies to minimize damage to structures, property, and infrastructure caused by flood hazards. It includes provisions for the County to evaluate proposed projects and land use policy decisions based on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and discourages inappropriate development in flood prone areas.

Does the plan include policies that restrict development that would increase downstream flooding? The County’s FIRMs have regulatory floodway designations along portions of the Smith River. Additional analysis is required in the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinances in Titles 20 & 21.

Does the plan include policies that restrict development that would increase sedimentation or erosion? I believe the requirement above may also address these impacts.

Stormwater
Management Plan
Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan - Section 1: Natural
Resources/Conservation
Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan - Section 7: Public Facilities
and Services
County Community
Development
Department
The General Plan includes goals and policies to protect the sufficient water supplies and qualities in the County through provisions such as setbacks, vegetation maintenance procedures, and storm and surface drainage system requirements for new and existing developments.

Does the stormwater master plan promote the use of porous building materials through incentive programs? No Does the stormwater master plan include green stormwater infrastructure in impaired watersheds? We don’t have any state designated impaired watersheds.

Does the stormwater master plan include stormwater management best practices in areas that flooding affects the most? Best Management Practices are included in requirements for grading, building and encroachments permits Does the placement of stormwater management projects prioritize socially vulnerable communities? Yes.

Stormwater Pollution
Prevention Plan
Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan - Section 1: Natural
Resources/Conservation
County Community
Development
Department
The General Plan includes goals and policies to protect the sufficient water qualities in the County through provisions such as setbacks requirements and vegetation maintenance procedures.

Economic Development
Plan
Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan - Section 3: Land Use and
Community Development
County Community
Development
Department
The Del Norte County General Plan includes goals and objectives to maintain a healthy and diverse local economy by designated areas for new businesses and associated public facilities and services, as well as encouraging the economic expansion of the County’s unique recreational opportunities and natural resources. This includes provisions to encourage appropriate uses in certain areas, like the coastal zone, to minimize potential adverse impacts.

Do economic development or redevelopment strategies include provisions for mitigating natural hazards? Consideration of natural hazards relative to any new development or redevelopment is considered as part of the environmental review conducted. Mitigation measures are required to address impacts.

Community Wildfire
Protection Plan
Yes Del Norte County Fire Safe Council
Community Wildfire Protection
Plan (2020)
County Del Norte County Fire
Safe Council
The Plan encourages the protection and creation of defensible space to minimize potential damages to structures or harm to humans. It concurs with the Del Norte County HMP in terms of risk profiling, goals, and mitigation strategies.

Mitigation priorities and strategies are integrated in this plan update.

The CWPP is in the process of an update, to be released in 2026.

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Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Community Forest
Management Plan
Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan: Section 1 – Natural
Resources/Conservation
County Community
Development
Department
The Del Norte County General Plan includes goals and objectives to conserve forest resources, enhance the quality and diversity of forest ecosystems, reduce conflicts between forestry and other uses, and to encourage a continued yield of forest products. The plan includes provisions to incorporate wild land fire risk hazard zones into the determination of zoning districts and potential appropriate development.

Transportation Plan Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan: Section 8 – Transportation
and Circulation
County Community
Development
Department
The General Plan includes goals and objectives to ensure the safe ingress and egress of the County, including the provision of alternate emergency access in the event of temporary closures.

Agriculture Plan Yes Del Norte County 2003 General
Plan: Section 1 – Natural
Resources/Conservation
County Community
Development
Department
The Del Norte County General Plan includes goals and objectives to designate agricultural land and promote development of agricultural uses to support the continued viability of the County’s agricultural economy. This includes provisions to conserve prime agricultural soils and vegetative land cover that can provide natural hazard mitigation functions, such as flood or landslide mitigation.

Climate Action/
Resiliency/
Sustainability Plan
Completed South Beach Climate Resilience
Plan
County Del Norte Local
Transportation
Commission
The South Beach Climate Resilience Plan grant project will be a climate adaptation planning document that includes climate adaptation strategies to address the closures of Anchor Way and US 101 in the South Beach area. Sea level rise and increased storm severity are increasing the frequency that Anchor Way and US 101 are closed due to ocean waves washing across those roadways, damaging the existing infrastructure, and depositing debris, requiring cleanup and repair efforts before those facilities can be opened back to public use.

Response/Recovery Planning
Emergency Operations
Plan
Yes Del Norte County Operational Area
Emergency Operations Plan 2021
County Office of Emergency
Services
The Plan incorporates the risk rankings for each hazard from the County’s 2019 HMP and focuses on both short-term response and long-term recovery activities. The County has multiple methods for emergency communications, including 911 systems and dispatch, Del Norte Community Alert System, Emergency Alert System, the Wireless Emergency Alert and Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, and the County Office of Emergency Service’s website, social media, and listservs. These are designed to reach even remote areas of the County. The Plan empowers the County Sheriff or their designee to order evacuations and/or shelter-in-place orders across the County.

There are hazard-specific annexes that focus on the special planning needs specific to specific type of event, including identifying hazard-specific risk areas and evacuation routes and specifying protocols for warning the public and disseminating emergency information.

Does your CEMP cover short-term response and long-term recovery to address communications, evacuation, and housing necessary for identified hazards? The Emergency Operations Plan and annexes address response, recovery, communications, evacuation, and sheltering.

Is there an adopted evacuation and shelter plan to deal with emergencies from natural hazards? The Evacuation and Transportation Annex (2023) addresses evacuation. Staff are working internally to develop a mass care and shelter annex.

Are evacuation routes located outside of floodplains, sea level rise inundation zones, or liquefaction zones? Yes.

Are there emergency communication systems in place? Yes. The County can issue emergency alerts via “Everbridge” Community Alert System, Wireless Emergency Alerts, and Emergency Alert System. Sirens in coastal areas are also able to alert to tsunami hazards.

Are those systems deployed in areas with the highest potential hazard exposure? DRAFT
Yes.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-13 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Jurisdiction
has this?
Code Citation and Date
(code chapter, name of plan,
date of plan)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Continuity of
Operations Plan
Yes Del Norte County Continuity of
Operations Plans
- -
Each county department maintains a continuity plan. These plans ensure that critical operations and staff can be maintained during and following a disaster.

Housing Element Yes Del Norte County 2022-2030
Housing Element
County Community
Development
Department
The Housing Element is required to be updated on an 8-year cycle to demonstrate that the County has the ability to accommodate its share of the identified Regional Housing Need developed by the State of California. The Housing Element also establishes the goals and policies of the County with regard to housing over the next 5 years. The element’s implementation plan includes provisions to incorporate new information on fire and flood hazards, as well as climate adaptation and resiliency strategies, as it becomes available and to identify residential developments in hazard areas that have limited emergency evacuation routes.

2.5.2 Development and Permitting Capability
Table 2-3 summarizes the capabilities of Del Norte County to oversee and track development.

Table 2-3. Development and Permitting Capability
Yes/ No Comment
Do you issue development permits? Yes Del Norte County Community Development Department Building Inspection Division
• If you issue development permits,
what department is responsible?
• If you do not issue development
permits, what is your process for
tracking new development?
Are permits tracked by hazard area?
(For example, floodplain development
permits.)
Yes Yes, permits with Special Flood Hazard Area Zone are tracked as are permits that are located within the State Responsibility Area and subject to WUI Building Standards and the State Minimum Fire Safe Regulations.

Do you have a buildable land inventory?
• If you have a buildable land
inventory, please describe
No -
Describe the level of buildout in your
jurisdiction.
- Adequate land remains available to accommodate the county’s needs for future development. Cyclically, the California Department of Housing and Community Development
determines a Regional Housing Need Allocation that identifies the number of new housing units that the local agency must plan for based on social and demographic factors (i.e.
population growth, age, income, etc.). Del Norte County has responded to the Regional Housing Need Allocation, via the adopted Housing Element, and has demonstrated that
sufficient land exists to accommodate the housing needs of the community over the planning period. In addition, there are numerous vacant parcels zoned commercial, manufacturing, DRAFT
and industrial to accommodate those development needs.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-14 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

2.5.3 Administrative and Technical Capability
Table 2-4 summarizes potential staff and personnel resources available to Del Norte County and their current responsibilities that contribute to hazard mitigation.

Table 2-4. Administrative and Technical Capabilities
Resources Available? Comment
Administrative Capability
Planning Board Yes Planning Commission
Zoning Board of Adjustment No -
Planning Department Yes Community Development Department Planning Division Mitigation Planning Committee No -
Environmental Board/Commission Yes Natural Resources & Environmental Coordination Technical Advisory Committees, Environmental Review Committee
Open Space Board/Committee No -
Economic Development
Commission/Committee
Yes Technical Advisory Committees
Public Works/Highway Department Yes Roads Division of Community Development Department Construction/Building/Code Enforcement
Department
Yes Community Development Department Code Enforcement
Division and Building Inspection Division
Emergency Management/Public Safety
Department
Yes Office of Emergency Services
Maintenance programs to reduce risk
(stormwater maintenance, tree trimming,
etc.)
Yes The Community Development Department Engineering and Surveying Division maintenance programs for roads,
utilities, community lifelines, and other County assets.

Mutual aid agreements Yes A countywide mutual aid agreement is on place in Del Norte County and all local fire districts and departments are a signatory to the agreement. In addition, Del Norte fire agencies have been involved with reciprocal mutual aid
agreement with Humboldt County fire agencies. Mutual aid agreements with counties in southern Oregon and nearby
tribes.

Human Resources Manual - Do any job
descriptions specifically include identifying
or implementing mitigation projects or other
efforts to reduce natural hazard risk?
No -
Other Yes Del Norte County is a general law county. The Board of Supervisors, which serves as the legislative and executive body for the county and many special districts, consists of five full-time members with one member elected from each district. Pursuant to the California Government Code, the Board enacts legislation governing Del Norte County,
determines overall policies for County departments, adopts the annual budget and fixes salaries. The Del Norte County Board of Supervisors assumes responsibility for the
adoption of this plan and the Del Norte County Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with other local
DRAFT
agencies, will oversee its implementation.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-15 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Resources Available? Comment
Technical/Staffing Capability
Planners or engineers with knowledge of
land development and land management
practices
Yes CDD / Director, Deputy Director of the Public Works Branch, Engineering Division staff, and Planning Division staff
Engineers or professionals trained in
building or infrastructure construction
practices
Yes CDD / Engineering Division staff and Building Inspection Division staff
Planners or engineers with an
understanding of natural hazards
Yes CDD / Director, Deputy Director of the Public Works Branch, Engineering Division staff, and Planning Division staff
Staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost
analysis
Yes Multiple Departments
Professionals trained in conducting damage
assessments
Yes On-Call agreements with consultants
Personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or
Hazus applications
Yes IT / GIS Coordinator, CDD / Planning Division staff Staff that work with socially vulnerable
populations or underserved communities
Yes Del Norte Department of Health and Human Services
Branches of Behavioral Health, Public
Assistance/Employment & Training, Public Health, and
Social Services
Environmental scientists familiar with
natural hazards
Yes Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) / Public Health Officer, CDD / Environmental Health Division staff Surveyors Yes CDD / Engineering & Surveying Division staff and On-call agreements with consultants
Emergency manager Yes Administration / CAO, Assistant CAO, Emergency Services Manager, Sheriff’s Office / County Sheriff
Grant writers Yes Multiple Departments
Resilience Officer No -
Other (this could include stormwater
engineer, environmental specialist, etc.)
Yes CDD / Roads Division (i.e. public works) staff.

2.5.4 Fiscal Capability
Table 2-5 summarizes financial resources available to Del Norte County.

2.5.5 Education and Outreach Capability
Table 2-6 summarizes the education and outreach resources available to Del Norte County.

2.5.6 Community Classifications
Table 2-7 summarizes classifications for community programs available to DRAFT
Del Norte County.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-16 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-5. Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resources Accessible or Eligible to Use?
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG, CDBG-DR) Yes
Capital improvement project funding Yes
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes Yes
User fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric service Yes. User fees for sewer service (CSA Area #1)
Impact fees for homebuyers or developers of new development/homes Yes - Del Norte County Unified School District requires mitigation
fees new development projects
within in its district. These fees are
for contributing to the funding of the
construction, maintenance, and
expansion of school facilities and
helping accommodate the expanding
educational needs.

Stormwater utility fee No
Incur debt through general obligation bonds Yes
Incur debt through special tax bonds Yes
Incur debt through private activity bonds Yes
Withhold public expenditures in hazard-prone areas Yes
Other federal or state funding programs Yes
Open Space Acquisition funding programs No
Other (for example, Clean Water Act 319 Grants [Nonpoint Source Pollution])
Yes. Federal-sponsored grant
programs, such as FEMA Hazard
Mitigation Assistance.

DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-17 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-6. Education and Outreach Capabilities
Outreach Resources Available? Comment
Public information officer or communications office No - Personnel skilled or trained in website development Yes - Hazard mitigation information available on your website Yes Emergency Services hosts information related to hazard mitigation on division
website.

Social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach Yes Emergency Services maintains a social media presence (i.e. Facebook)
for quick dissemination of hazard
mitigation information.

Citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Yes Drought Resilience Task Force
(subgroup of the Natural Resources
and Environmental Coordination
Technical Advisory Group)
Warning systems for hazard events Yes Community alert system “Everbridge” can be deployed during hazard events
for mass community notification as
well as tsunami sirens in coastal
areas. The County also has Wireless
Emergency Alert and Emergency Alert
System capabilities for alerting.

Genasys Evacuation Map is used to
communicate evacuation zones.

Natural disaster/safety programs in place for schools Yes Programs align with Office of Emergency Services outreach.

Organizations that conduct outreach to socially vulnerable populations and underserved populations
Yes Del Norte Department Health and
Human Services Branches of
Behavioral Health, Public
Assistance/Employment & Training
Public Health, and Social Services,
Office of Emergency Services,
Redwood Regional Coast Center
Organizations that work with seniors
Tri-County agency on aging
Mission Possible
Public outreach mechanisms / programs to inform citizens on natural hazards, risk, and ways to protect themselves during such events
Yes The Prepare Del Norte website
promotes disaster preparedness to the
public.

Emergency Services collaborates with
local media (i.e. newspaper, radio,
etc.) for communication of hazard
related information
Monthly radio program (Preparedness
DRAFT
Radio)

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-18 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-7. Community Classifications
Program Participating? Classification Date Classified
Community Rating System (CRS) No - -
Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule
(BCEGS)
Yes 04 for 1 and 2 family
residential property and 03
for commercial and
industrial property.
2022
Public Protection (ISO Fire Protection Classes 1 to
10)
No - -
National Weather Service StormReady
Certification
No - -
Firewise Communities classification No - -
NWS TsunamiReady In Progress - -

2.5.7 Adaptive Capacity
Adaptive capacity is defined as “the ability of systems, institutions, humans and other organisms to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or respond to consequences” (IPCC 2022). Each jurisdiction has a unique combination of capabilities to adjust to, protect from, and withstand a future hazard event, future conditions, and changing risk. Table 2-8 summarizes the adaptive capacity for each identified hazard of concern and the County’s capability to address related actions using the following classifications:
• Strong adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does have the capability to effectively respond, plans/policies exceed minimum requirements; deployable resources all of which decreases vulnerability.
• Moderate adaptive capacity means minimum requirements are in place; moderate capabilities; mitigation measures are identified but not implemented widespread; jurisdiction can recover but needs outside resources.
• Weak adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does not have the capability to effectively respond, which leads to an increase in vulnerability. Examples include weak/outdated/inconsistent plans, policies, codes/ordinances in place; no redundancies; limited to no deployable resources; limited capabilities to respond; long recovery.

Table 2-8. Adaptive Capacity
Hazard Adaptive Capacity - Strong/Moderate/Weak
Drought Moderate
Extreme Heat Moderate
Extreme Wind Moderate
Excessive Rain Moderate
Earthquake Low
Flood Moderate
Landslide Moderate
Tsunami Moderate
Wildfire
DRAFT
Moderate

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-19 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

2.6 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM COMPLIANCE
This section provides specific information on the management and regulation of the regulatory floodplain, including current and future compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

The floodplain administrator listed in Table 2-1 is responsible for maintaining this information.

2.6.1 Repetitive Loss
The Open FEMA NFIP Multiple Loss Properties dataset was analyzed to gain an understanding of repetitive flood loss in the County. The dataset provides information on structures that have had multiple NFIP claims across the history of the program. Table 2-9 summarizes the repetitive loss and severe repetitive loss properties in the County.

Table 2-9. Repetitive Loss Summary
Type of Repetitive Loss Residential Non-Residential
Repetitive Loss Properties (NFIP definition) 1 1
Repetitive Loss Properties (FMA definition) 0 0
Severe Repetitive Loss Properties (NFIP definition) 0 0 Severe Repetitive Loss Properties (FMA definition) 0 0
Source: (FEMA 2024)
NFIP Definition of Repetitive Loss: The NFIP defines a repetitive loss property as any insurable building for which two or more claims of more than $1,000 were paid by the NFIP within any rolling 10-year period since 1978.

FMA Definition of Repetitive Loss: FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program defines a repetitive loss property as any insurable building that has incurred flood-related damage on two occasions, in which the cost of the repair, on average, equaled or exceeded 25 percent of the market value of the structure at the time of each such flood event.

NFIP Definition of Severe Repetitive Loss: A residential property covered under an NFIP flood insurance policy and: (a) That has at least four NFIP claim payments over $5,000 each, and the cumulative amount of such claims payments exceeds $20,000; or (b) For which at least two separate claims payments have been made with the cumulative amount of the building portion of such claims exceeding the market value of the building. In both instances, at least two of the claims must be within 10 years of each other, and claims made within 10 days of each other will be counted as one claim.

FMA Definition of Severe Repetitive Loss: An NFIP-Insured structure that has incurred flood-related damage for which four or more separate claims payments have been made, with the amount of each claim (including building and contents payments) exceeding $5,000, and with the cumulative amount of such claims payments exceeding $20,000; or for which at least two separate claims payments (building payments only) have been made under such coverage, with the cumulative amount of such claims exceeding the market value of the building.

2.6.2 Flood Vulnerability Summary
Table 2-10 provides a summary of the NFIP
DRAFT
program in Del Norte County.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-20 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-10. NFIP Summary
NFIP Topic Comments
Flood Vulnerability Summary
Describe areas prone to flooding in your jurisdiction. Flooding along the Pacific coast near Crescent City is often associated with the simultaneous
occurrence of very high tides, large waves, and
storm swells during the winter. Riverine flood
hazard areas in Del Norte County are limited to the
Smith River, Klamath River and Elk Creek systems
because these are the river systems where
development has occurred in or near the floodplain.

Do you maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding?
No, because we have not been advised of any
properties damaged by flooding.

Do you maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation?
• How many homeowners and/or business owners are
interested in mitigation (elevation or acquisition)?
No, we do not maintain a list of property owners
interested in flood mitigation as we have not
received any interest from the public.

Are any RiskMAP projects currently underway in your jurisdiction? • If so, state what projects are underway.

No
How do you make Substantial Damage determinations?
How many were declared for recent events in your jurisdiction? We would ask the property owner to have the
structure appraised by a qualified appraiser to
determine whether the cost of restoring the
structure to its before-damaged conditions would
equal or exceed fifty percent of the market value of
the structure before the damage occurred. No
Substantial Damage request or determinations
have been made in recent events.

How many properties have been mitigated (elevation or
acquisition) in your jurisdiction?
• If there are mitigated properties, how were the projects funded?
None that county staff is aware of.

Do your flood hazard maps adequately address the flood risk within your jurisdiction?
• If not, state why.

Yes
NFIP Compliance
What local department is responsible for floodplain management? Community Development Department; the Director of CDD is floodplain administrator.

Are any certified floodplain managers on staff in your jurisdiction? No Do you have access to resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change?
Yes through State- and FEMA-funding sea level
rise studies and regulations.

Does your floodplain management staff need any assistance or training to support its floodplain management program?
• If so, what type of assistance/training is needed?
No
Provide an explanation of NFIP administration services you provide (e.g., permit review, GIS, education/outreach, inspections, engineering capability)
DRAFT
Permit review, education, inspections.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-21 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
NFIP Topic Comments
How do you determine if proposed development on an existing structure would qualify as a substantial improvement?
We begin with the valuation of the permit compared
to the value of the structure based on Assessor’s
Records. We also offer the applicant the option of
having a qualified appraiser prepare an appraisal of
the structure to establish the value. If the cost of the improvement exceeds 50% of the value of the
home, the structure will need to meet the standards
of the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.

What are the barriers to running an effective NFIP program in the community, if any?
Frequency and location of training for staff.

Does your jurisdiction have any outstanding NFIP compliance violations that need to be addressed?
• If so, state the violations.

No
When was the most recent Community Assistance Visit (CAV) or Community Assistance Contact (CAC)?
2014
What is the local law number or municipal code of your flood damage prevention ordinance?
• What is the date that your flood damage prevention ordinance was last amended?
May 26, 2009 (Ord. No. 2009-010)
Does your floodplain management program meet or exceed
minimum requirements?
• If exceeds, in what ways?
Meets, but the state building code requires a
minimum of 1-foot above the base flood elevation
while the ordinances say at or above the base flood
elevation. The state has prepared a model
ordinance that incorporates the state building codes
into the NFIP regulations and the county will seek
approval for this change in the near future.

Are there other local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g., site plan review) that support floodplain management and meeting the NFIP requirements? For instance, does the planning board or zoning board consider efforts to reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height restrictions?
Yes, the County is able to support floodplain
management and meet NFIP requirements through
several ordinances found in its County Code,
including DNCC §7, §12, §14, §20, §21, and §22.

Does your community plan to join the CRS program or is your community interested in improving your CRS classification? The County does not participate in CRS but is
potentially interested in joining the program.

2.7 JURISDICTIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 provide detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to identified hazards, including summaries of Del Norte County’s risk assessment and data used to determine the hazard ranking. Key local risk assessment information is presented below.

2.7.1 Hazard Area
Hazard area maps provided below illustrate the probable hazard areas impacted within the county are shown in Figure 2-3 and Figure 2-4. These maps are based on the best available data at the time of the preparation of this plan and are adequate for planning purposes. Maps are provided only for hazards that can be identified clearly using mapping techniques and technologies and for which Del Norte County has significant exposure. The maps show the location of potential new development, where available.

DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-22 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Figure 2-3. Del Norte County Flood, Tsunami, and NEHRP Soil Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-23 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Figure 2-4. Del Norte County Wildfire and Landslide Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-24 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

2.7.2 Hazard Event History
The history of natural and non-natural hazard events in unincorporated Del Norte County is detailed in Volume 1, where each hazard profile includes a chronology of historical events that have affected the County and its municipalities. Table 2-11 provides details on loss and damage in unincorporated Del Norte County during hazard events since the last hazard mitigation plan update.

Table 2-11. Hazard Event History in Unincorporated Del Norte County Dates of Event Event Type
Declared
Event? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage and
Losses in Unincorporated Del
Norte County
February 24 to
March 1, 2019
Severe
Storm
DR-4434-
CA
An atmospheric river spread across
northern California and produced
heavy rain that led to localized
flooding. Impacts included flooding
on Highway 199 along the west
shoulder and northbound lane.

None
July 23, 2019 Terrorist
Attack
No On July 23, Ricin was discovered in
an envelope during the mail
screening process in the mailroom of
Pelican Bay State Prison.

Several individuals working in
the prison were exposed to
Ricin, and some were
hospitalized. A small amount of
the substance inadvertently
made it outside of the prison
grounds, potentially exposing
members of the public. No
deaths resulted from the attack.

January 20, 2020 to
May 11, 2023
Pandemic
(COVID 19)
January
20, 2020
to May 11,
2023
The first confirmed case in California
was reported on January 25, 2020.

Del Norte County experienced
surges in COVID-19 cases in
December 2020, August to
September 2021, January to
February 2022, and in July of 2022.

Del Norte County reported
8,005 confirmed cases and 62
fatalities between 2020 and
2023. Economic impacts due to
business closures, especially in
hospitality industry. Strain on
limited capacity of
hospital/medical care,
emergency management, public
health, and public safety.

September 8 to
November 17, 2020
Wildfire DR-4569-
CA
CA20-3
Record-breaking hot temperatures
exacerbated existing fire conditions,
leading to drier conditions and
allowing wind to facilitate the rapid
spread of new fires. The Slater Fire
near Happy Camp in Siskiyou
County began on September 8,
2020. The fire crossed the border
into Del Norte County the morning of
September 9, resulting in a sudden
short-term evacuation of the
Gasquet community. The fire burned
the area around the Collier Tunnel
near the California/Oregon border.

The fires was contained on
November 16, 2020.

The fire burned 166,127 acres
of land across the Klamath, Six
Rivers, and Rogue-Siskiyou
National Forests. In Del Norte,
the fire burned the forested
area surrounding the Collier
Tunnel and rest area. Highway
199 was closed for 11 days
from Pioneer Rd to the border.

The fires destroyed two homes
in Del Norte County, and
damaged culverts on several
County maintained roads,
DRAFT
including Oregon Mountain Rd.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-25 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Dates of Event Event Type
Declared
Event? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage and
Losses in Unincorporated Del
Norte County
January 15, 2022 Tonga
Volcano
Tsunami
No The Hunga Tonga submarine
volcano erupted in the South Pacific,
sending tsunami waves toward the
West Coast of the United States.

Due to infrequent eruption-triggered
tsunamis, experts were initially
uncertain of impacts and timing for
the U.S. West Coast. The tsunami
arrived in Del Norte at about 8:00 am
the morning of January 15, arriving
at about the same time as high tide.

Fishing boat owners rushed to
get boats out to sea before the
initial waves arrived, while
County and City staff and first
responders worked to notify
community members of the
potential danger. Tsunami
waves as high as 3.7 feet were
recorded in Crescent City. The
tsunami resulted in strong
currents, but no inundation. No
significant damage or injuries
were reported in Del Norte.

April 28, 2022 Hazardous
Materials
Spill
No On the morning of April 28, a drunk
driver in a Freightliner truck driving
the narrow curves along Highway
199 near Gasquet crashed into a
power pole and lost control. Over
2000 gallons of hot asphalt binder
were spilled down the embankment,
some of which made its way into the
pristine Smith River.

Spill resulted in short-term
closure of Highway 199. Clean
up efforts took many months as
the consistency of the tar
evolved depending on water
temperature.

December 9 to 10,
2022
High Wind No Winter storms with high winds began
in late November 2022 in far
Northern CA, including Del Norte
County. Winds intensified December
9-10, causing travel and power
impacts.

A tree fell on a vehicle causing
a collision. Power lines fell
across Highway 197 and 199
due to high wind gusts.

DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-26 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Dates of Event Event Type
Declared
Event? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage and
Losses in Unincorporated Del
Norte County
December 27, 2022
to January 31, 2023
Thunderstor
ms, High
Wind,
Coastal
Flood
DR-4683-
CA
CA23-1
Atmospheric river led to multiple
heavy rainstorms and strong winds
from late December through the end
of January. During the declared
disaster period of December 27,
2022 through January 31, 2023,
coastal Del Norte experienced 28
days of wind gusts exceeding 20
mph, 22 days with gusts over 30
mph, 16 days over 40 mph, 7 days
over 50 mph, and 1 day with 60 mph
gusts.

Large wind-driven waves battered
local beaches.

Strong winds caused multiple
trees to fall, leading to
blockages on Highways 101,
197, and 199, and Parkway
Drive. Downed power lines
caused small fires and
numerous outages. Over
10,000 customers experienced
some time without power. There
were 14 reported outages
affecting over 500 people
during the disaster period.

Winds damaged the roof at
Jack McNamara Field airport,
fell trees at Crescent City’s
Beachfront Park, and shredded
outfield nets at Pyke Field.

Saturated soils along Highway
101 at Last Chance Grade led
to a landslide that closed the
highway for several hours. High
surf damaged the groin in the
harbor and caused coastal
flooding on Highway 101 at
South Beach, leading to a full
short-term closure.

February 21 to July
10, 2023
Severe
Winer Storm,
Snow, Ice,
Flood
DR-4699-
CA
EM-3592-
CA
CA23-3
Severe winter storms and high winds
led to mudslides and landslides.

Downed trees blocked portions of
Highway 199. Low temperatures
were well below normal for most of
February. Many feet of snow fell in
local mountains. Snow fell at sea
level on February 23. Crescent City
saw up to 5.5” of snow fall over the
course of two days.

Snow and ice on roads led to
necessary closures of
government offices and many
businesses. Higher elevations
saw above average snow
levels. After several weeks of
unrelenting snowfall, several
residents in local mountains
required rescue. Unusually cold
temps and snow and ice
created the need for several
daytime warming centers and
overnight shelters to protect
unhoused community
members.

DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-27 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Dates of Event Event Type
Declared
Event? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage and
Losses in Unincorporated Del
Norte County
August 15, 2023 Wildfire,
Extended
Power
Outage
CA23-5 The Smith River Complex fires
began on August 15, when dry
thunderstorms produced ~150
lightning strikes across the Six
Rivers National Forest, igniting
dozens of fires, including 12 within
the Gasquet Ranger District. Steep,
rugged terrain prevented some
immediate suppression efforts and
dry fuels caused the fires grew in
size rapidly, threatening populated
areas. The fire also damaged the
transmission lines powering Del
Norte. Over 95,000 acres had
burned by November 13, when the
fires were declared controlled and
contained.

The Smith River Complex fires
caused a multi-week closure of
Highway 199, followed by
several months of partial
closures during repair and
recovery work. Over 1000
residents were evacuated,
some for several weeks. The
evacuation shelter saw as many
as 160 guests nightly, while the
animal shelter cared for several
dozen animals. Fires
threatened Del Norte’s only
power transmission corridor,
resulting in de-energization that
left 27,000+ residents without
power for 3-7 days until the
entire County was temporarily
powered by large generators.

Several residences and
outbuildings were destroyed in
the fires. Economic impacts
resulted from highway closures,
power outages, business
closures and reduced tourism.

Continued closures of Highway
199 caused supply chain
disruptions, economic impacts,
and hindered access to medical
services.

January 13, 2024 High Wind,
Heavy Rain,
Riverine and
Surface
Flooding
No An atmospheric river resulted in 8”-
10” of rainfall over the course of 72
hours in Del Norte. Widespread
creek and surface flooding resulted.

The Smith River exceeded Flood
Stage, reaching 34+ feet, causing
flooding of nearby roadways.

Excessive rainfall resulted in
flooding in the Lake Earl and
Klamath areas and
necessitated road closures. The
County had to perform an
emergency breach of Lake Earl
to allow water to flow to the
ocean and prevent damage to
nearby properties. Landslides
occurred throughout the
County, including major slides
on City and County property
along Pebble Beach drive.

March 1 to 6, 2024 High Wind,
Heavy Rain,
Debris Flow
No Hail storm and significant rainfall
event. Storm caused downed trees
and landslides.

Downed trees and landslides
blocked Highway 101 near
Crescent City and 199 near
Gasquet.

March 23 to 24,
2024
High Wind,
Heavy Rain
No Rainfall and strong winds led to
multiple instances of rockfall and
landslides.

Numerous road closures
occurred throughout the storm
period. The storm downed a
DRAFT
tree on Highway 199.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-28 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Dates of Event Event Type
Declared
Event? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage and
Losses in Unincorporated Del
Norte County
(Ongoing)
December 14, 2020
February 15, 2021
December 3, 2023
February 16, 2024
Landslides;
Last Chance
Grade
No Landslides occur frequently along
Highway 101 at Last Chance Grade,
cutting Del Norte County in half,
isolating the southern portion from
services and the northern portion
from the rest of the state. Over 200
active and historic slides are
documented in the area, causing the
road to shift vertically and
horizontally by several dozen feet in
some sections. Stabilization work
had the highway reduced to oneway, escorted traffic for 9 years before it reopened to two-way traffic
in October of 2023.

December 14, 2020: Small slide at
Last Chance shut down the only
open lane on the highway for several
hours.

February 15, 2021: ~40,000 cubic
yards of debris material mobilized as
result of saturated soils. Resulted in
a several day, full highway closure.

December 3, 2023: After 4-6” of
rainfall fell in a 48-hour period, a
landslide at Last Chance Grade
pushed through a retaining wall,
causing a temporary closure.

February 16, 2024: Saturated soils
caused a large landslide to cover
both lanes of the highway, leading to
a full overnight closure.

Each closure at Last Chance
Grade impacts the passage of
goods, medical supplies,
travelers, and emergency
responders. With most business
activity and services being
located in the northern part of
Del Norte, and the only
alternate route to Klamath being
a 7+ hour detour, closures at
Last Chance Grade threaten to
strand commuters and school
children. Closures have
economic impacts for Del Norte
due to lost business activity,
reductions in tourism, and other
losses. During Covid, closures
and delays due to slide activity
and resulting road work at Last
Chance Grade impacted Del
Norte’s ability to access critical
Covid tests and vaccines.
(Ongoing)
December 14, 2020
February 15, 2021
December 3, 2023
February 16, 2024
Landslides;
Klamath
Beach Road
No Landslides along Klamath Beach
Road in Klamath are common. This
road houses a small number of yearround residents, and a larger number of temporary campers
during Spring and Summer. This
road is the access road for the Alder
Camp Conservation Camp and the
Klamath dump.

April 24, 2023: A landslide on
Klamath Beach Rd. caused a shortterm full closure, and several days of one-lane passage through the area.

February 9, 2024: A significant
landslide closed the road for several
hours, temporarily stranding
residents and visitors. Travel through
the area was limited to residents and
workers for several days while
cleanup work was completed.

Landslides in this area have
stranded visitors, residents, and
Alder Camp Conservation
Camp staff. County Roads
Department has been able to
reopen road quickly enough
that rescues have not been
required.

EM = FEMA Emergency Declaration
DRAFT
; DR = FEMA Major Disaster Declaration

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-29 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

2.7.3 Hazard Ranking and Vulnerabilities
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 have detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. The following presents key risk assessment results for unincorporated Del Norte County.

Hazard Ranking
The participating jurisdictions have differing degrees of vulnerability to the hazards of concern, so each jurisdiction ranked its own degree of risk to each hazard. The community-specific hazard ranking is based on problems and impacts identified by the risk assessment presented in Volume 1. The ranking process involves an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence for each hazard; the potential impacts of the hazard on people, property, and the economy; community capabilities to address the hazard; and changing future climate conditions. Unincorporated Del Norte County reviewed the County hazard ranking and individual results to assess the relative risk of the hazards of concern to the community.

During the review of the hazard ranking, the county indicated the following:
• Drought in Del Norte has not been extreme and has not had severe impacts. • Extreme temperatures are rare in Del Norte. Coastal temperatures are mild year-round.

Temperatures rarely reach above 80 degrees or dip below freezing in the more populated coastal areas. Extreme heat events are relatively rare and have been limited to less populated, inland areas.
• Extreme wind events are fairly common and come with cascading effects of landslides and power outages.
• Excessive rainfall is also common. Once the ground is saturated, landslides and power outages follow.
• While crustal earthquakes are not common here, a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake will have devastating impacts. We can also experience damages from a large earthquake on the Mendocino Triple Junction, which occur with higher frequency. • We experience flooding impacts with nearly every major storm, especially later in the storm season as the ground is saturated.
• Landslide impacts can be severe in Del Norte due to limited transportation and supply routes. • While only the coastal areas of Del Norte are vulnerable, a large tsunami will impact our major transportation routes, supply chain, power, fuel, government operations and other critical infrastructure.
• While the areas at highest risk of wildfire are State or Federal lands, impacts from wildfire can include long-term power outages, evacuations, power and fuel impacts, air quality impacts, and transportation and supply chain impacts.

Table 2-12 shows Del Norte County’s final hazard rankings for identified hazards of concern. Mitigation action development uses the
DRAFT
ranking to target hazards with the highest risk.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-30 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-12. Hazard Ranking
Hazard Rank
Drought Low
Extreme Temperatures Low
Extreme Wind Medium
Excessive Rain Medium
Earthquake Medium
Flood Medium
Landslide Medium
Tsunami Medium-High
Wildfire High
Note: The scale is based on the hazard rankings established in Volume 1, modified as appropriate based on review by the jurisdiction

2.7.4 Identified Issues
After review of Del Norte’s hazard event history, hazard rankings, hazard location, and current capabilities, the county identified the following vulnerabilities within the community:

Flooding
• There are estimated to be 280 structures within the 1-percent annual chance flood hazard area, but there are only 162 flood insurance policies in force within the unincorporated areas of the county. Most of these structures are believed to be residential. • Andy McBeth Airport (a County-owned public use airport located in Klamath Glen) is located in the 1-percent annual chance flood hazard area.

Earthquake
• More than 65 percent of the housing stock was built before modern seismic codes were in force.
• Many critical facilities are located in Type D soils, which may be prone to liquefaction. These facilities include the Del Norte County Courthouse, Del Norte County Library, Del Norte County Flynn Administrative Center, Del Norte County Roads Division, Del Norte County Youth Opportunity Center, Del Norte County Agriculture Department, Del Norte County Drug and Alcohol Services, Del Norte County Health and Social Services Department, Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office, among others.

Landslide
• More than 30 percent of the structures in Gasquet, Hiouchi, and Smith River are believed to be located in very high or high landslide susceptibility zones. • There are 10 County Highway Agency bridges believed to be located in very high or high landslide susceptibility zones.

Tsunami
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-31 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• There are estimated to be more than 1,476 people living in tsunami inundation zones in the unincorporated areas of the county.
• There are a number of critical facilities located in tsunami inundation zones including the Del Norte County Courthouse, Del Norte County Library, Del Norte County Roads Division, Del Norte County Youth Opportunity Center, Del Norte County Drug and Alcohol Services, and Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office, among others.

Wildfire
• More than 14,000 people are estimated to live in the moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones.

Mitigation actions addressing these issues were prioritized for consideration in the action plan presented in the following section.

2.8 CONDITIONS THAT MAY IMPACT RISK

2.8.1 Population Pattern Trends
As noted in Volume 1, the population of Del Norte County is expected to decline over the next 45 years.

While this means fewer people will be at risk from the natural hazards identified in this plan, this also means that there will be a smaller pool of people to draw volunteers from. This is especially precarious for volunteer fire departments, who rely on volunteers to save lives and property.

2.8.2 Changes in Land Use and Development
Understanding how past, current, and projected development patterns have or are likely to increase or decrease risk in hazard areas is a key component to appreciating a jurisdiction’s overall risk to its hazards of concern. The number of building permits issued since the prior HMP are shown in Table 2-13.

In general, the County does not have a lot of development compared to the rest of the state. There is one major residential development currently in progress, as summarized in Table 2-14. There are no major residential or commercial development projects planned to break ground over the next five years.

2.9 MITIGATION STRATEGY AND PRIORITIZATION
This section discusses the status of mitigation actions from the previous HMP, describes proposed hazard mitigation
DRAFT
actions, and prioritizes actions to address over the next five years.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-32 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-13. Number of Building Permits for New Construction Issued Since the Previous HMP New Construction Permits Issued
Single Family Multi-Family Other (commercial, mixed-use, etc.) Total 2019
Total Permits 49 4 1 54
Permits within SFHA 0 0 0 0
2020
Total Permits 42 9 0 51
Permits within SFHA 2 0 0 2
2021
Total Permits 34 16 2 62
Permits within SFHA 0 0 0 0
2022
Total Permits 47 22 1 70
Permits within SFHA 0 0 0 0
2023
Total Permits 36 36 0 72
Permits within SFHA 1 0 0 1
SFHA = Special Flood Hazard Area (1% flood event)
Table 2-14. Recent Major Development and Infrastructure from 2019 to Present Property or
Development
Name
Type of
Development
# of Units /
Structures
Location (address and/or
block and lot)
Known
Hazard
Zones*
Description /
Status of
Development
Redwood
Harbor Duplex
Housing
Development
Residential –
Duplex & Triplex
44 Duplexes
(88 Units) 5
Triplexes (15
Units)
Winding Creek Circle, Emerald
Creek Drive, Various Parcel IDs
Book 116 Page 31 of Assessor
Parcel Maps
None
identified.

Ongoing.

Dat-naa-svt
Village Project
Residential
community –
Tolowa Tribal
Citizens
27 homes in
a village
community
12801 Mouth of Smith River Rd.

Smith River, CA
Moderate
Landslide
Ongoing
* Only location-specific hazard zones or vulnerabilities identified.

2.9.1 Past Mitigation Action Status
Table 2-15 indicates progress on the county’s mitigation strategy identified in the 2019 HMP. Actions that are still recommended but not completed or that are in progress are carried forward and combined with new actions as part of the mitigation strategy for this plan update. Previous actions that are now ongoing programs and capabilities are indicated as such and are presented in the capability assessment earlier in this annex.

DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-33 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-15. Status of Previous Mitigation Actions
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC-1 Where appropriate,
support retro-fitting,
purchase or
relocation of
structures located in
high hazard areas,
prioritizing those
structures that have
experienced
repetitive losses
and/or are located in
high or medium
ranked hazard
areas.

Building
Maintenance
Department
No Progress Yes Need for mitigation
strategies (retrofitting,
purchase and
relocation) of existing
structures in hazard
areas.

There are only
repetitive loss
properties in Del Norte
County- believed to
not be County owned
Project will be
updated to be specific
to critical county
owned facilities. This
is a long-term project
(jail, dispatch etc.) that
will not be completed
in 5 years. The project
needs to reflect
actions that will be
reasonable within the
time period or state
that it is a longer-term
project. OES will help
to identify facilities
needing
retrofit/relocation, and
work to identify
funding. Building
maintenance will be
secondary as a
responsible party
Flood,
earthquake,
tsunami,
landslide,
wildland fire
DNC-2 Integrate the hazard
mitigation plan into
other plans,
ordinances and
programs that dictate
land use decisions in
the community,
including the
General Plan, the
Local Coastal
Program, and the
County Code.

Community
Development
Department
In Progress. The General
Plan Safety Element was
amended on May 11, 2021,
to incorporate the HMP. A
subsequent amendment will
be needed to incorporate the
HMP 2024 into the General
Plan
Yes Need for HMP to be
integrated into
General Plan and
other plans, and to
guide development
ordinances and
programs.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-34 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC-3 Actively participate in
the plan
maintenance
protocols outlined in
Volume 1 of this
hazard mitigation
plan.

Office of
Emergency
Services
In progress. The formal
schedule for the 2019
MJHMP was impacted during
the life of the plan by Covid,
by other disasters and by
vacancies in the OES and
other relevant departments.

While we were on track to
reconvene to update the
2019 plan, delays occurred
due to the necessity of
applying for funding and due
to continued low staffing and
disasters.

Yes Plan maintenance
protocols will continue
to be followed as
described in the 2025
update to the best of
our ability.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC-4 Continue to maintain
good standing and
compliance under
the NFIP through
implementation of
floodplain
management
programs that, at a
minimum, meet the
NFIP requirements.

Including
enforcement of the
flood damage
prevention
ordinance;
Participation in
floodplain
identification and
mapping updates;
and providing public
assistance/informatio
n on floodplain
requirements and
impacts.

Community
Development
Department
In Progress. The County
remains in good standing and
compliance under the NFIP.

Yes The County will
remain in good
standing and in
compliance with the
NFIP.

Dam failure,
flooding, severe
weather,
tsunami, sea
level rise
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-35 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC-5 Identify and pursue
strategies to
increase adaptive
capacity to climate
change.

Community
Development
Department
In Progress. The County was
a participant in the South
Beach Climate Resilience
Plan, which was prepared on
behalf of the Del Norte Local
Transportation Commission,
Elk Valley Rancheria and
Crescent City Harbor District
to address impacts on US
Highway. It was funded
through a Caltrans Climate
Adaptation Planning Grant.

The County is the recipient of
a Caltrans Sustainable
Transportation Planning
Grant to analyze and
prioritize drainage
infrastructure associated with
the County maintained road
system. Data will be collected
and a countywide geographic
information system (GIS)
documenting existing
drainage infrastructure
features associated with the
County maintained road
system will be developed,
existing conditions will be
evaluated relative to
anticipated impacts from
climate change through a
hydrology and hydraulics
analysis, and a capital
improvement plan (CIP) for
drainage infrastructure
associated with the County
maintained road system will
be developed. Improvements
included in the CIP may be
designed up to 30% to inform
future climate adaptation
project development efforts
and the Regional
Transportation Plan.

Yes Original Problemneed to increase
adaptive capacity to
climate change.

Sea level rise,
wildland fires,
severe weather
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-36 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC-6 Purchase generators
for critical facilities
and infrastructure
that lack adequate
back-up power (e.g.
sewer lift stations,
etc.).

Community
Development
Department
In Progress. The County
obtained a State Proposition
1 Grant that is to be used to
add fixed generators to
several sanitary sewer lift
stations. The project is
currently under construction.

Also, in 2020 the County
received OES EMPG funding
and Public Safety Power
Shutoff Resiliency Grant
funding to purchase a
portable generator for the
County Service Area No. 1.

OES funded the purchase of
generators for the Crescent
City Police Department
(CCPD), installed in 2021,
and for the Flynn (County)
Administration Building,
installed in 2023 using PSPS
funds. OES has developed a
generator project for the Del
Norte County Sheriff’s Office,
Dispatch, and Jail facility
using EMPG 23 funds and
expect this project to be
completed in 2025.

Yes. Continue to pursue
generator purchase
and installation for
critical facilities and
infrastructure and
investigate alternative
power options.

Dam failure,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC-7 Continue/enhance
ongoing public
education programs
to include
components on
hazards and
mitigations
Office of
Emergency
Services
Ongoing Capability/In
Progress. Public Education
campaigns have included inperson, social media, and
website outreach, as well as
a regular Preparedness
Radio program. Hazard and
Mitigation topics have been
covered through these
outreach efforts, including
outreach for wildfire, flood,
tsunami, Winter Storms,
Landslides, and other
hazards. Additionally OES
has provided support to
Gasquet neighbors Helping
Neighbors, this volunteer
OES group is working on
Mitigation efforts in Gasquet.

Yes Original need was for
public campaign to
increase awareness of
hazards of hazard
mitigation
dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami, and
wildland fire
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-37 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC-8 Update sponsored
website to include
preparedness,
warning and
mitigation
information on all
hazards
Office of
Emergency
Services
Ongoing Capability. The
website currently contains
relevant and recent
information, including
preparedness, warning, and
mitigation information.

No Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC-9 Provide updated
narrowband radios
and repeaters for all
hazard first
responders
Office of
Emergency
Services
In Progress. DNSO has
purchased radios using funds
from a local public safety
measure. Additional radio
and repeater projects were
identified as needs by
Interoperable
Communications Assessment
completed in 2023. HSGP
and EMPG Grants and
Measure R funds have been
used to purchase radios for
Del Norte County Sheriff,
Crescent City PD, and
Gasquet Fire; pagers for
Crescent City Fire and
Rescue; and a repeater for
Smith River Fire.

Yes The original problem
was with
interoperability
between public safety
and related agencies
that prevented
adequate
communications
during
emergencies/disasters
. Communications
projects were
identified and
prioritized by 2023
Interoperable
Communications
Assessment. OES will
continue to pursue
projects identified in
the assessment as
grant funds become
available. **Consider
as a new project to
have new repeaters at
new sites to improve
radio communications.
(red Mountain
replacement)
Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-38 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC10Conduct a
structural/nonstructural hazard
mitigation
engineering
feasibility study of
critical
facilities/infrastructur
e identified as
vulnerable to identify
preferred
alternatives for future
grant funding
opportunities. This
would be considered
a “phased-approach”
as defined by FEMA
under the 2015 HMA
guidance
Administration In Progress. The County
Building Maintenance
Director has inspected all
County facilities in
consultation with the County
Building Official and has
prepared a preliminary report
on the findings of their
condition. While the focus of
this analysis was not on
hazard exposure or
mitigation, the County may
be able to use this
information to inform further
analysis by the County’s
contracted engineering
consultants. Work has not
been completed on this item
for several reasons including
technical capacity, which is
now improved by the
previously referenced service
agreements with engineering
consultants (which were put
into place in 2023), and more
broadly by the pandemic that
occurred during this period.

Cal OES performed a
Seismic Inventory (Rapid
Visual Screening) of critical
facilities in the County in
2023 that may help to inform
future projects and justify
grant applications.

Yes This project may be
combined with DNC-1
and DNC-25 as one
assessment and
identification project
for County-owned
facilities.

Dam failure,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC11Conduct a
cost/benefit analysis
and feasibility study
for the relocation or
retro-fitting of the
County jail facility
Administration In progress. An assessment
of the County Jail facility was
conducted by the BSCC to
be able to renovate the jail.

The County is moving
forward with a phased project
for renovation of the existing
jail to complete
improvements and bring the
facility into compliance with
Title 24.

No Earthquake,
tsunami
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-39 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC12Draft and adopt a
post disaster action
plan
Office of
Emergency
Services
No Progress. Covid,
personnel shortages, and
ongoing
emergencies/disasters
prevented the pursuit of this
strategy. Estimate in 2020
was minimum of $80,000 to
hire a consultant.

Yes OES will pursue the
creation of a Recovery
Plan as funding
sources become
available.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC13Develop, map, and
communicate an
evacuation route for
all applicable
hazards
Office of
Emergency
Services
In Progress. Evacuation
zones have been completed
in evacuation mapping
program, funded through a
combination of EMPG and
HSGP funds. Once released,
residents will be encouraged
to know their zones for
evacuation notifications.

Evacuation routes are
established for hazards with
known paths that routes can
be communicated for.

Yes This project intended
to communicate
evacuation routes.

While the project
should be carried into
the updated plan, the
verbiage should be
changed to specify
evacuation zones
rather than routes,
and to include public
outreach and
education about the
zones to ensure safe
and speedy
evacuations.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC14Engineer/design or
retrofit new and
existing roads and
bridges to withstand
the impacts from the
hazards for which
they are exposed.

Community
Development
Department
In Progress. The County has
multiple ongoing projects that
are going through the design
and permitting process.

Examples include the
replacement of the Hunter
Creek Bridge on Requa Rd.,
the replacement of culverts
on Klamath Beach Rd., and
bluff stabilization along
Pebble Beach Dr. The
County did a major culvert
replacement on Oregon
Mountain Rd. following the
Slater Fire in 2020 which will
ensure that the culverts be
resilient in the event of future
wildfire. In 2024, the County
received a grant from
Caltrans Bridge Preventative
Maintenance Program to
establish a bridge
preventative maintenance
program. A consultant was
hired and is currently
evaluating all of the County’s
bridges to identify
deficiencies and prepare
work recommendations.

Yes. Some existing
roads/bridges were
vulnerable to floods,
landslides, wind,
tsunami, and other
hazards.

Dam failure,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-40 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC15Develop a tsunami
warning and
response system
Office of
Emergency
Services
In Progress. While we have a
Community Alert system,
IPAWs alerting capability,
tsunami sirens, and tsunami
hazard signage, many of the
sirens are in need of
repair/replacement, and
signage needs to be replaced
to reflect updated tsunami
maps. OES works closely
with the NWS, California
Geological Survey, Cal OES
Earthquake and Tsunami
Program, and Redwood
Coast Tsunami Work Group
to continuously improve
tsunami warning and
response capabilities. OES
has recently mapped all
tsunami hazard zones in an
evacuation mapping program
to improve evacuation time
and efficiency.

Yes There have been over
40 tsunamis in Del
Norte County since
recordkeeping began
in the 1930s, including
several that caused
significant damage,
and one that
destroyed 30 square
blocks of Crescent
City and killed 11
residents. The original
problem was the need
for improved local
warning systems for
tsunamis. While
systems have
improved since the
development of the
2019 plan, OES will
continue to work on
improvements in
tsunami warning and
response, including
through siren
repair/replacement,
tsunami signage
updates, investigation
of building a vertical
evacuation tower, and
continued
collaboration and
consultation with
subject matter
experts. Fire sirens
are also needed. This
is several smaller
projects that will
require different
funding sources. We
may want to separate
this into the separate
projects or define
more precisely the
various aspects of
what is needed.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-41 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC16Develop a Disaster
Debris Management
Plan that Identifies
and develops
adequate locations
for the temporary
and permanent
storage of postdisaster event
debris. Establish
agreements with
property owners and
haulers ahead of
disaster.

Office of
Emergency
Services
Complete. No Disaster Debris
Management Plan
was completed in
2021.

Dam failure,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC17Design, post to the
web and publicize
the availability of a
web GIS mapping
tool providing
detailed maps of
natural hazard
overlays or site
address and/or
parcel locations
Office of
Emergency
Services
Complete. No. County website
includes GIS maps
including parcels and
flood and tsunami
hazard overlays. The
State also maintains a
hazard map for all
relevant hazards for
our purposes, and
through work
completed in our
evacuation mapping
program, we now
have the capabilities
desired by the
inclusion of this
project.

Dam Failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC18Secure funding for
additional GIS all
hazards staffing
capacity to provide
interagency
coordination and
consolidated,
integrated GIS
capabilities including
all county
departments and
other applicable
agencies.

Office of
Emergency
Services
No Progress. OES has not
pursued this project due to
time and staff limitations and
due to the project becoming
less of a priority as new tools
and technologies have
become available that fulfill
the needs.

No Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC19Extend runway
lengths, draft a
pavement
maintenance plan,
and rehabilitate
pavement to be able
to receive larger
aircrafts.

Border Coast
Regional
Airport
Authority
PMMP – Completed
Pavement Rehabilitation –
Ongoing (FAA, $7.2M)
Runway Extension – No
Progress
Pavement rehabilitation is
ongoing, pending FAA grant
funding and timing.

N/A
Yes
Yes
N/A
Design Delay
Lack of Funding
(Local/FAA)
Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
DRAFT
wildland fire

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-42 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC20Relocate/digitize
County records and
maintain backups
that can be
accessed during or
soon following
disaster events.

Information
Technology
Department
In Progress. IT Department is
working on digitization of
County records.

Yes The original problem
was the possibility of a
permanent loss of
records in a disaster.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC21Establish alternate
Office of Emergency
Services operation
center and
emergency dispatch
center.

Office of
Emergency
Services
In Progress. OES continues
to explore facilities and
properties as well as possible
funding sources for primary
and secondary EOC and
emergency dispatch centers.

Yes This project was
created due to the
need for backup EOC
and dispatch
locations. Rather than
alternative EOC and
dispatch, OES now
sees new primary
site/s for OES offices,
EOC and training
facility, and dispatch
center as priorities.

Project 1 also relates
to critical facilities.

Relocation of dispatch
may also be covered
by that project.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC22Upgrade/develop
redundant
interoperable
communications
systems such as
fiber optic wireless,
radio and other.

Office of
Emergency
Services
In progress. Radio and other
relevant communications
equipment continue to be
purchased as grant funding
allows. Interoperable
communications assessment
completed in 2023 identified
top priority projects OES will
continue to pursue.

Yes OES will continue to
pursue priority
communications
project identified by
2023 Interoperable
Communications
Assessment.

Review to consolidate
this project with DNC9
Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC23Procure equipment
necessary to
evaluate, repair, and
maintain segments
of the sewage
collection system
which are highly
vulnerable to
damage during
disaster events.

Community
Development
Department
No Progress. In 2023, the
County requested technical
assistance from the State
Water Resources Control
Board for the preparation of a
grant application for the
Small Community Funding
Program to fund a
comprehensive CCTV
inspection of the County’s
collection system and
sanitary sewer lift stations.

The request is on hold.

Yes The original problem
is not having the data
to identify damage to
the sewer collection
system and not having
the equipment
necessary to make
immediate repairs or
to minimize potential
sewer sanitary
overflows (SSOs)
following a failure.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
DRAFT
wildland fire

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-43 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC24Develop County
Service Area No. 1
Capital Improvement
Program with the
intent of prioritizing
repair/replacement
projects based on
risk to hazards.

Community
Development
Department
In progress. A preliminary
plan has been developed by
County staff based on known
information about the County
Services Area No. 1. The
County has partnered with
the Elk Valley Rancheria for a
grant from the Indian Health
Services for a focused inflow
and infiltration study for the
portions of the sewer
collection system located
within and near the Elk Valley
Rancheria.

Yes. Repair/replacement of
CSA-owned
equipment was
identified as a need.

Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
tsunami,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
and wildland fire
DNC25Identify and evaluate
potential permanent
relocation sites for
critical county
facilities located in
areas subject to
hazards.

Office of
Emergency
Services
No Progress. OES has not
had the time or staffing to
pursue this project. If we
decide to include this project
in the 2025 plan it should be
listed under a different
responsible party.

Unsur
e
This is also related to
DNC-1 and DNC-10.

Will need to ensure
that projects are either
well defined,
combined, or
otherwise reviewed to
prevent confusion and
duplication
dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC26Procure equipment
necessary to
maintain the
County’s flood
control system and
to remove obstacles
from emergency
access routes during
disaster events.

Community
Development
Department
Completed. The Roads
Division has recently
purchased equipment
capable of assisting during
disaster events.

No. Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC27Replace or expand
Bar O Boys Ranch
barracks to
accommodate fire
crews.

Administration,
Probation
Department
This property is no longer in
use.

No Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide, sea
level rise,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire
DNC28Maintain airport
runway safety areas
to keep clear of
wildfire fuels and to
continue use as
base for firefighting
operations when
needed.

Border Coast
Regional
Airport
Authority
Ongoing Capability No Wildland Fire
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-44 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
DNC29Procure equipment
necessary for
operations at Jack
McNamara Field to
respond to disaster
events on-site and
as a critical
ingress/egress point
for the County.

Border Coast
Regional
Airport
Authority
Ongoing Capability – New
Aircraft Rescue & Fire
Fighting Apparatus nearing
completion and delivery Q4
2024.

No Dam failure,
drought,
earthquake,
flooding,
landslide,
severe weather,
tsunami,
wildland fire

2.9.2 Additional Mitigation Efforts
In addition to the mitigation actions completed in Table 2-15, Del Norte County identified the following mitigation efforts completed since the last HMP:
• Covid mitigation activities: Pre-positioned ACS, handwashing stations, work-from-home policies • Designed and published evacuation zone maps to aid evacuations • Partnered with community organizations and other County departments to conduct outreach to homeless community members to educate about flood and tsunami hazard areas and to promote registration for community alerts
• Worked with National Weather Service and partners on annual Live Code tsunami drills and community evacuation drills
• Held large evacuation exercise for the City of Crescent City, helping the City to achieve Tsunami Ready status
• Promoted power company programs for free or reduced cost generators for community members with electricity-dependent medical equipment
• Installed generator at County Administration building • Promoted Community Alert System registration and attained access to IPAWS for alerting • Supported wildfire mitigation efforts in rural areas (brush removal, bins, and chipping activities) and supported voluntary teams conducting mitigation work • Implemented inclement weather shelters for homeless community members • Provided CERT basic training to rebuild local volunteer team • Provided sandbag distribution sites ahead of flood events • Held Flood Fight training to train County staff on Flood Fight Operations • Secured pre-positioned flood fight resource caches
• Secured generator for County Roads Division
• Secured pre-positioned shelter supply trailer through MOU with CA Dept of Social Services • Secured State grant for purchase of generator for Police Department DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-45 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Provided support and training to voluntary response teams: Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN), Disaster Animal Response Team (DART) • Conducted outreach to seniors, Regional Center clients, and school children promoting preparedness information
• Purchased deployable portable generators
• Secured High Frequency Communications equipment to improve communications • Conducted Interoperable Communications Assessment to assess communications capability

2.9.3 Changes in Priorities
Since the 2019 HMP update, the County has experienced a couple of large wildfires, including the Slater Fire in 2020, and the Smith River Complex fires and associated long-term power outage in 2023.

This has created a renewed focus on wildfire mitigation, first responder communications capabilities, alert and warning capabilities, power resiliency, hardening critical infrastructure, and evacuation planning. These priorities are reflected in the projects included in our 2025 HMP update.

2.9.4 Proposed Hazard Mitigation Actions for the HMP Update Del Norte County participated in the mitigation strategy workshop for this HMP to identify appropriate actions to include in a local hazard mitigation strategy. Its comprehensive consideration of all possible activities to address hazards of concern included review of the following FEMA documents:
• FEMA 551 “Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Flood Prone Structures” (March 2007)
• FEMA “Mitigation Ideas—A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards” (January 2013) The action worksheets included at the end of this annex list the mitigation actions that Del Norte County would like to pursue in the future to reduce the effects of hazards. The actions are dependent upon available funding (grants and local match availability) and may be modified or omitted at any time based on the occurrence of new hazard events and changes in county priorities.

Table 2-16 indicates the range of proposed mitigation action categories. The four FEMA mitigation action categories are listed in the table to further demonstrate the wide range of activities and mitigation measures selected.

Volume 1 identifies four evaluation criteria for prioritizing the mitigation actions. To assist with rating each mitigation action as high, medium, or low priority, a numeric rank is assigned for each of the evaluation criteria. Table 2-17 provides a summary of the prioritization of all proposed mitigation actions for the HMP update.

DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-46 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-16. Analysis of Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Category Actions That Address the Hazard, by Action Category
Hazard LPR SIP NSP EAP
Drought DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-14
DNC-4, DNC-29 DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-22
Earthquake DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-11,
DNC-14, DNC-20
DNC-4, DNC-6, DNC-9, DNC-10,
DNC-12, DNC-13, DNC-15, DNC-17,
DNC-18, DNC-20, DNC-21, DNC-23,
DNC-26, DNC-27, DNC-29
DNC-20 DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-28
Extreme Heat DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-14
DNC-4, DNC-12, DNC-18, DNC-23,
DNC-26, DNC-29
DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-22
Excessive Rain DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-11,
DNC-14, DNC-20
DNC-3, DNC-4, DNC-6, DNC-9,
DNC-10, DNC-12, DNC-13, DNC-15,
DNC-18, DNC-20, DNC-23, DNC-26,
DNC-27, DNC-29
DNC-20 DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-22
Extreme Wind DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-11,
DNC-14, DNC-20
DNC-4, DNC-6, DNC-9, DNC-10,
DNC-18, DNC-20, DNC-21, DNC-23,
DNC-26, DNC-27, DNC-29
DNC-20 DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-22
Flood DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-8,
DNC-11, DNC-14,
DNC-20
DNC-3, DNC-4, DNC-6, DNC-9,
DNC-10, DNC-12, DNC-13, DNC-15,
DNC-18, DNC-20, DNC-21, DNC-23,
DNC-26, DNC-27, DNC-29
DNC-20 DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-22, DNC-28
Landslide DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-8,
DNC-11, DNC-14,
DNC-20
DNC-4, DNC-6, DNC-9, DNC-10,
DNC-12, DNC-13, DNC-15, DNC-18,
DNC-20, DNC-21, DNC-23, DNC-26,
DNC-27, DNC-29
DNC-20 DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-22, DNC-28
Tsunami DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-8,
DNC-11, DNC-14,
DNC-20
DNC-4, DNC-9, DNC-10, DNC-12,
DNC-13, DNC-15, DNC-18, DNC-20,
DNC-21, DNC-23, DNC-25, DNC-26,
DNC-27, DNC-29
DNC-20 DNC-5, DNC-16,
DNC-19, DNC-24,
DNC-28
Wildfire DNC-1, DNC-2,
DNC-7, DNC-8,
DNC-11, DNC-20
DNC-4, DNC-9, DNC-10, DNC-12,
DNC-13, DNC-18, DNC-20, DNC-21,
DNC-23, DNC-26, DNC-27, DNC-29
DNC-20 DNC-5, DNC-19,
DNC-22, DNC-24,
DNC-28
Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)—These actions include government authorities, policies or codes that influence the way land and buildings are being developed and built.

Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)—These actions involve modifying existing structures and infrastructure to protect them from a hazard or remove them from a hazard area. This could apply to public or private structures as well as critical facilities and infrastructure. This type of action also involves projects to construct structures to reduce the impact of hazards.

Natural Systems Protection (NSP)—These are actions that minimize damage and losses and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-47 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 2-17. Summary of Prioritization of Actions
Project Name Cost Benefit Objectives Time Frame Score Priority Seismic Mitigation Low High 1 1-5 years 8.2 High
Evacuation Zone Awareness Low High 1 1-5 years 8.2 High Public Education Low Medium 1 1-5 years 7.2 High
Tsunami Hazard Awareness Medium High 1 1-5 years 7.2 High Debris Removal Contract Low Medium 1 1-5 years 7.2 High Cybersecurity Improvements Medium High 1 1-5 years 7.2 High Plan Integration Low Low 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium
Plan Maintenance Low Low 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium
NFIP Compliance Low Low 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium
Evacuation Mapping Medium Medium 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium Accessible Communications Medium Medium 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium Radio Communications Low Low 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium
Climate Change Effects Low Low 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium
Emergency Warning Sirens High High 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium Generators High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium
Radio Technology High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium
Disaster Recovery Plan Medium Low 1 1-5 years 5.2 Medium Roads and Bridges High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium
Digitize County Records High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium Procure Equipment High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium
County Service Area No. 1 High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium Maintain Levee System High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium EOC and EDC Study High Medium 1 1-5 years 5.2 Medium
Vertical Tsunami Evacuation Structure High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium Survey Monument Preservation High High 1 1-10 years 5.2 Medium Jack McNamara Field High Medium 1 1-10 years 4.2 Low
Expand Internet Access High Medium 1 1-10 years 4.2 Low Veteran’s Administration High Low 1 1-5 years 4.2 Low
Microgrid Study High Medium 1 1-10 years 4.2 Low
Note: Volume 1 of the HMP provides guidance on prioritizing mitigation actions. Low (0-5), Medium (5-7), High (7-9).

2.9.5 Mitigation Strategy
The following pages list the specific plan for each mitigation action, including the agency responsible for implementation, potential funding sources, and expected timeframe for completion.

DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-48 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-1 Plan Integration
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: Office of Emergency Services (OES) Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for updated HMP to be integrated into General Plan Safety Element to inform land use decisions and maintain eligibility for certain grants.

Description of the Solution: Integrate the Hazard Mitigation Plan into other plans, ordinances, and programs that dictate land use decisions in the community, including the General Plan, the Local Coastal Program, and the County Code. (2019 DNC2) Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Local funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce longterm risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its residents.

Benefits: Low: Long-term benefits of the project are difficult to quantify in the shortterm.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Unknown
Impact on Future Development: Unknown
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Safety and Security Lifeline
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Community Resilience, Long-term Vulnerability Reduction and Infrastructure Systems capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Unknown
Mitigation Category ☒Local Plans and Regulations
(LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure
Project (SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-49 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-2 Plan Maintenance
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the
Problem:

Maintenance protocols need to be followed to ensure HMP projects are prioritized and that changes impacting hazard vulnerability in the jurisdiction are updated Description of the
Solution:

Actively participate in the plan maintenance protocols outlined in Volume 1 of this Hazard Mitigation Plan (2019 DNC-3)
Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding
Sources:

EMPG (Staff Time)
Implementation
Timeline:
1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents.

Benefits: Low: Long-term benefits of the project are difficult to quantify in the short-term Impact on Socially
Vulnerable
Populations:

Unknown
Impact on Future
Development:

Plan maintenance will inform local development decisions Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Critical Facilities, all Community Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Planning, Community Resilience, Long-term Vulnerability Reduction and Infrastructure Systems capabilities
Climate Change
Considerations:

Plan maintenance ensures climate change impacts are taken into account in project prioritization
Mitigation Category ☒Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs (EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-50 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-3 NFIP Compliance
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☐Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☐Landslide
☐Tsunami
☐Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to remain in compliance with NFIP requirements to ensure continued eligibility and reduce flood risk
Description of the Solution: Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements, including enforcement of the flood damage prevention ordinance; Participation in floodplain identification and mapping updates; and providing public assistance/information on floodplain requirements and impacts. (2019 DNC-4)
Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents Benefits: Low: Long-term benefits are difficult to quantify in the short term Impact on Socially
Vulnerable Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future
Development:

Positive: Participation informs future development decisions Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

All Community Lifeline Categories
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Planning, Community Resilience, Long-term Vulnerability Reduction and Infrastructure Systems capabilities
Climate Change
Considerations:

Consistent with NFIP policies
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs (EAP)
Priority
DRAFT
Medium

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-51 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-4 Generators
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Building Maintenance Department, Community Development Department Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to power critical facilities during extended power outages.

Description of the Solution: Purchase generators for critical facilities and infrastructure that lack adequate back-up power (sewer lift stations, pre-identified shelter locations, Sheriff’s Office/Dispatch, etc.) (2019 DNC-6)
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HSGP, HMGP, PDM
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to the 100-year or worstcase scenarios to safeguard continuity of operations in Del Norte County.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property. Substantial public health and safety benefits achieved by avoiding sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs)
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Safety and Security; Food, Hydration and Shelter; Transportation; Health and Medical; Communications; and Energy Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Public Health, Healthcare, and EMS capability; Mass Care Services; Infrastructure Systems; and Long-term Vulnerability Reduction Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires, increasing the potential for power outages
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-52 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-5 Public Education
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to increase community member participation in mitigation activities.

Description of the Solution: Enhance public education to include personal and business mitigation actions and activities (participation in Firewise, etc.) (amended 2019 DNC-7) Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: EMPG, Measure R (Staff time) Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents
Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property or will provide an immediate reduction in the risk exposure to property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact for whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: High
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-53 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-6 Radio Technology
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Information Technology Department (IT) Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☐Tsunami
☐Wildfire
Description of the Problem: First responder radio communication issues are persistent in our area. Plans for relocation of radio communications tower threatens to cause additional issues. Interoperable Communications Assessment (2023) identified necessary communication projects the jurisdiction should address to ensure adequate first responder communications.

Description of the Solution: Improve radio technology across the region to ensure adequate first responder and partner communications. Pursue funding to support priority communications projects identified in 2023 Interoperable Communications Assessment. (Amended 2019 DNC-9)
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, EMPG, HSGP, CDBG
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to the 100-year or worstcase scenarios to safeguard continuity of operations in Del Norte County.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Communications and Safety and Security Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Operational Coordination, Operational Communications Climate Change Considerations: Unknown
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-54 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-7 Disaster Recovery Plan
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The County currently lacks a disaster recovery plan to guide actions and decision making and inform about available resources in the aftermath of disaster.

Description of the Solution: Draft and adopt a Disaster Recovery Plan (amended 2019 DNC-12) Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, EMPG
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Expand awareness of available resources for residents and business owners, focusing on accessibility for individuals in socially vulnerable situations.

Benefits: Low: Long-term benefits of the project are difficult to quantify in the short-term
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact: improves recovery outcomes for whole community, including socially vulnerable populations
Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Potential positive impact on Critical Facilities and Lifelines due to increased awareness of recovery resources and processes and improved recovery outcomes
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Economic Recovery; Housing; Natural and Cultural Resources: and Health and Social Services
Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires, creating a greater need for post-disaster recovery plans.

Mitigation Category ☒Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-55 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-8 Evacuation Mapping
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: Office of Emergency Services (OES) Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☐Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☐Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The County currently lacks evacuation route maps.

Description of the Solution: Evacuation Mapping: Map major evacuation routes and identify residential areas with fewer than 2 evacuation routes. Incorporate maps into General Plan Safety Element. (amended 2019 DNC-13)
Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, EMPG, Adaptation Planning Grant Program (CA) Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Expand awareness of available resources for residents and business owners, focusing on accessibility for individuals in socially vulnerable situations.

Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property or will provide an immediate reduction in the risk exposure to property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: Awareness of evacuation routes informs future development Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Transportation, Safety and Security Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Risk and Disaster Resilience Assessment capability Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires.

Mapping of evacuation routes improves awareness of vulnerabilities to inform evacuation plans for these events.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-56 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-9 Roads and Bridges
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The majority of existing County maintained roads are not designed to current design standards.

Description of the Solution: Rehabilitate, reconstruct, replace and retrofit existing County maintained roads and bridges to withstand the impacts of hazards. (Amended 2019 DNC-14) Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, PDM
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Increase capacity, redundancy, and/or resilience of local infrastructure and utilities to reduce potential for community isolation after a hazard event Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: Positive impact on resilience of new roads and bridges Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impacts on Transportation; Safety and Security; Health and Medical; Communications; and Food, Hydration and Shelter Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Long-term Vulnerability Reduction Climate Change Considerations: Climate change impacts can affect the lifespan of roads and bridges and the prioritization of this project.

Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-57 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-10 Jack McNamara Field
Lead Agency: Border Coast Airport Authority
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Longer runway lengths and runway maintenance are needed to accommodate larger aircraft for emergency response and recovery activities. (amended 2019 DNC-19)
Description of the Solution: Extend runway lengths and rehabilitate pavement at Jack McNamara Field to be able to receive larger aircraft
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, FAA grants (AIG, AIP)
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Increase capacity, redundancy, and/or resilience of local infrastructure and utilities to reduce potential for community isolation after a hazard event.

Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property or will provide an immediate reduction in the risk exposure to property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Safety and Security; Transportation; and Health and Medical Lifelines
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Long-term Vulnerability Reduction, Supply Chain Integrity and Security, and Critical Transportation capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Unknown
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Low
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-58 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-11 Digitize County Records
Lead Agency: Information Technology Department (IT)
Supporting Agencies: All County Departments
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to digitize County records and maintain backups to ensure records are not permanently lost in disaster events. (2019 DNC-20)
Description of the Solution: Relocate/digitize County records and maintain backups that can be accessed during or soon after disaster events.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Local Funds (staff time)
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents
Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: Positive impact on future development through improved disaster recovery Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Safety and Security; Food, Hydration and Shelter; Health and Medical; Energy; Communications; Transportation; and Hazardous Materials Lifelines
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction Climate Change Considerations: Unknown
Mitigation Category ☒Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-59 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-12 Expand Internet Access
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Information Technology Department (IT) Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to enhance communication systems to improve access to information for community members, including critical information during emergencies/disasters.

Description of the Solution: Expand high-speed internet access to rural community members to improve information access, including emergency information. (amended 2019 DNC22) Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: USDA Rural Development Telecom Grant Programs, HMGP Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Expand awareness of available resources for residents and business owners, focusing on accessibility for individuals in socially vulnerable situations.

Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property or will provide an immediate reduction in the risk exposure to property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Communications; Health and Medical; and Safety and Security Lifelines
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Public Information and Warning and Community Resilience capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires.

It is important for rural community members to have access to emergency information as incidents increase.

Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Low
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-60 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-13 Procure Equipment
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Equipment is needed to conduct necessary evaluation, maintenance, and repairs on sewage system to improve reliability of system, especially after disaster.

Description of the Solution: Procure equipment necessary to evaluate, repair, and maintain segments of the sewage collection system which are highly vulnerable to damage during disaster events. (2019 DNC-23)
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, USDA Rural Development Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to the 500-year or worstcase scenarios to safeguard continuity of operations in Del Norte County.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Project will benefit whole community, including socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: Positive impact on future development Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Health and Medical; Water Systems Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Infrastructure Systems, Long-term Vulnerability Reduction capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms, putting additional pressure on sewer system
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☒Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-61 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-14 County Service Area No. 1
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for sanitary sewer projects to be prioritized according to risk to local hazards to ensure the most critical projects are prioritized.

Description of the Solution: Develop County Service Area No. 1 Capital Improvement Plan with the intent of prioritizing repair/replacement projects based on risk to hazards. (2019 DNC-24)
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, CWSRE
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to the 500-year or worstcase scenarios to safeguard continuity of operations in Del Norte County.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Project will have a positive impact on the whole community, including socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: Positive impact: preserves future development potential Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impacts on Safety and Security; Food, Hydration and Shelter; Health and Medical; Energy; Communications; Transportation; and Hazardous Materials Lifelines
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Infrastructure Systems, Critical Transportation, and Longterm Vulnerability Reduction Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms, putting additional pressure on the sewer system
Mitigation Category ☒Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-62 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-15 Maintain Levee System
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☐Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for maintenance crews to maintain access and functionality of the Klamath Glen levee for disaster response and post-disaster repairs.

Description of the Solution: Maintain the levee system including access at acceptable levels to retain a fully functional flood control system for emergency response. This includes maintenance of levee access roads, vegetation, levee proper, ponding areas, inlets, outlets, pumps, generators, fuel, etc. (amended DNC-26) Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, PDM, FMA
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to the 500-year or worstcase scenarios to safeguard continuity of operations in Del Norte County.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Project will have a positive impact for whole community. Much of the population protected by the levee is a socially vulnerable population.

Impact on Future Development: Positive impact on future development potential Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Safety and Security; Food, Hydration and Shelter; Health and Medical; Energy; Communications; Transportation; and Hazardous Materials Lifelines
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Infrastructure Systems, Long-term Vulnerability Reduction Climate Change Considerations: Climate change impacts can cause additional pressure on levee system Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-63 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-16 Tsunami Hazard Awareness
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Community Development Department (CDD): Roads Division, Caltrans Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☐Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☐Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☐Flood
☐Landslide
☒Tsunami
☐Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for improved public information about local tsunami hazards. Needed improvements include:
• Updated tsunami road/highway signage to align with updated tsunami hazard maps.
• Tsunami route and evacuation point mapping and signage.

These actions will improve public awareness and produce more effective tsunami evacuations and will qualify the County for NWS Tsunami Ready designation.

Description of the Solution: Increase tsunami hazard awareness by completing steps to achieve County-wide NWS Tsunami Ready status, including the installation/replacement of tsunami signs on County roads and highway.

Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: EMPG (staff time), NEHRP, Measure R, Caltrans funds Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Expand awareness of available resources for residents and business owners, focusing on accessibility for individuals in socially vulnerable situations.

Benefits: High: Increased awareness of tsunami hazard zones and evacuation routes will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Increased awareness will improve outcomes for the whole community, including socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Positive impact on Safety and Security and Transportation Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Public Information and Warning; Risk and Disaster Resilience Assessment; Community Resilience; and Critical Transportation capabilities Climate Change Considerations: Unknown
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☒Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority High
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-64 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-17 Seismic Mitigation
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Building Maintenance Department
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☐Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☐Flood
☐Landslide
☐Tsunami
☐Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to increase safety of staff and occupants of County facilities during earthquakes.

Description of the Solution: Apply non-structural mitigation actions to County facilities (earthquake straps, etc.) Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: EMPG, Local Funds, Measure R Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents
Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and property
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Project will benefit all occupants of County facilities, including socially vulnerable populations
Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Safety and Security Lifeline Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Environmental Response/Health and Safety and Infrastructure Systems capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: None
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority High
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-65 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-18 Veteran’s Administration
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Building Maintenance Department
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for safe and suitable (ADA-compliant, earthquake retrofit) shelter facilities for emergency/disaster sheltering
Description of the Solution: Conduct feasibility studies for renovations of Veteran’s Administration building and Recreation Hall for the purposes of sheltering, including earthquake retrofitting and ADA compliance
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Increase capacity, redundancy, and/or resilience of local infrastructure and utilities to reduce potential for community isolation after a hazard event Benefits: Low: Long-term benefits of the project are difficult to quantify in the short term.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Additional accessible sheltering facilities will positively impact the whole community, especially socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Food, Hydration and Shelter lifeline Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Mass Care Services and Infrastructure Systems Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires.

Increased emergencies and disasters will lead to increased need for suitable shelter facilities.

Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Low
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-66 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-19 Accessible Communications
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Administration Department
Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to improve accessibility of preparedness information and emergency information, including for Spanish and Hmong speakers and community members who are deaf/Hard of Hearing
Description of the Solution: Ensure accessible communications: secure readily available translation/interpretation services for emergency information and translation of preparedness outreach materials
Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: EMPG, Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents
Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and property
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on socially vulnerable populations through improved access to information
Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impacts on Safety and Security and Communications Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Improved Community Resilience, Public Information and Warning Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires.

Improvements in public communication are needed to reach all community members with preparedness and emergency information.

Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☒Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-67 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-20 Debris Removal Contract
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Community Development Department (CDD) Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Large scale disasters impacting other parts of the State could impact our ability to secure debris-removal services immediately following a large-scale disaster. The County currently lacks a contract for post-disaster debris operations that could help to ensure access to these services.

Description of the Solution: Secure contract for post-disaster debris removal to protect the environment postdisaster and accelerate recovery.

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk and exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents.

Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and property
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: Positive impact on future development. Future development and recovery would be hindered by stalled post-disaster debris removal.

Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Potential positive impacts on Transportation; Safety and Security; Food, Hydration and Shelter; Health and Medical; Energy; Communications; and Hazardous Materials lifelines
Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Environmental Response/Health and Safety; Infrastructure Systems; and Natural and Cultural Resources capabilities Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires, creating additional need for post-disaster debris removal Mitigation Category ☒Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☒Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority High
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-68 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-21 Radio Communications
Lead Agency: Information Technology Department (IT)
Supporting Agencies: Office of Emergency Services (OES) Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☐Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to improve radio communications capabilities, including access to High Frequency radio communications to ensure continued communication capabilities with State during disasters.

Description of the Solution: Complete High Frequency Communications Project (equipment installation) to expand communications capabilities during disasters.

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Increase capacity, redundancy, and/or resilience of local infrastructure and utilities to reduce potential for community isolation after a hazard event Benefits: Low: Long-term benefits are difficult to quantify in the short term Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Communications lifeline, Safety and Security lifeline Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Operational Communications; Intelligence and Information Sharing; and Infrastructure System capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires.

Communications improvements are needed to withstand future emergencies/disasters.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-69 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-22 Climate Change Effects
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies: Office of Emergency Services (OES) Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☐Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☐Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for additional information on potential future climate impacts to inform planning in County.

Description of the Solution: Study the effects of climate change in our area, including its impact on hazards and vulnerabilities. (Participation in South Beach Climate Resiliency Plan, Drought Task Force, update of the County Safety Element of the General Plan).

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Incorporate the best available hazard data in development and construction standards and long-term capital investments to encourage mitigation in new growth areas in Del Norte County.

Benefits: Low: Long-term benefits are difficult to quantify in the short term Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Unknown
Impact on Future Development: Project will help to inform future development plans and ordinances Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Project will inform planning, including for critical facilities and functions Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Community Resilience; Risk and Disaster Resilience Assessment; and Long-term Vulnerability Reduction capabilities Climate Change Considerations: Project will increase local understanding of climate change and improve ability to plan for future impacts
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☒Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-70 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-23 EOC and EDC Study
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: Information Technology Department (IT), Sheriff’s Office Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for new primary Emergency Operations Center and Emergency Dispatch Center
Description of the Solution: Conduct feasibility studies with intent of securing a new primary Emergency Operations Center and Emergency Dispatch Center.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to the 500-year or worst-case scenarios to safeguard continuity of operations in Del Norte County Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and property
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Safety and Security and Communications lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Improved Operational Communications and Operational Coordination capabilities Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires, leading to a greater need for functional EOC and Emergency Dispatch facilities Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-71 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-24 Emergency Warning Sirens
Lead Agency: Information Technology Department (IT)
Supporting Agencies: Office of Emergency Services (OES) Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☐Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☐Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☐Flood
☐Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for regular maintenance of current emergency warning sirens and radio remote capabilities to ensure ability to warn of tsunami and fire hazards. Need for additional sirens in strategic locations to improve warning capabilities.

Description of the Solution: Expand capacity and level of protection provided by emergency warning sirens. (Maintain current warning sirens and radio remote system and install additional sirens.)
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: CDBG, NEHRP, HMGP, Measure R, Local Funds Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Expand awareness of available resources for residents and business owners, focusing on accessibility for individuals in socially vulnerable situations.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact for whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Communications and Safety and Security Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Public Communication and Warning and Community Resilience capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires, leading to possible increased need for warning sirens.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-72 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-25 Vertical Tsunami Evacuation Structure
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☐Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☐Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☐Flood
☐Landslide
☒Tsunami
☐Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The area near South Beach is vulnerable to tsunamis. People in this area cannot evacuate inland or to high ground on foot in time to escape a near-source tsunami threat. A structural “higher ground” alternative is needed for the life safety of people in this area.

Description of the Solution: Conduct feasibility study to evaluate the possibility of Vertical Tsunami Evacuation Structure near South Beach. Consider and pursue potential partnerships for this project (City, Harbor District, etc.).

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, CDBG, PDM, EDA, Coastal Conservancy grants Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Incorporate the best available hazard data in development and construction standards and long-term capital investments to encourage mitigation in new growth areas in Del Norte County.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact for whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Safety and Security Lifeline Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Community Resilience and Long-term Vulnerability Reduction capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Unknown
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-73 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-26 Microgrid Study
Lead Agency: Administration Department
Supporting Agencies: Office of Emergency Services (OES) Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need for information on feasibility of microgrid to ensure power for hospital and other critical infrastructure.

Description of the Solution: Conduct feasibility study for microgrid to support critical infrastructure during extended power outages
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: HMGP, CDBG, CBRE, GRIP, Local Funds Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Increase capacity, redundancy, and/or resilience of local infrastructure and utilities to reduce potential for community isolation after a hazard event Benefits: Medium: Project will have a long-term impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property or will provide an immediate reduction in the risk exposure to property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impacts on Energy; Health and Medical; and Safety and Security Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Infrastructure Systems and Long-term Vulnerability Reduction capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Climate change can increase the number and intensity of storms and wildfires, possibly leading to increased power outages.

Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority Low
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-74 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-27 Cybersecurity Improvements
Lead Agency: Information Technology Department (IT)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Cybersecurity improvements are needed to ensure security and continuity during emergency/disasters.

Description of the Solution: Improve cybersecurity protection and response to ensure continuity and security during emergencies/disasters.

Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: SLCGP, HSGP, Local Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its constituents.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Communications and Safety and Security Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Access Control and Identity Verification and Cybersecurity capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Unknown
Mitigation Category ☐Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐Education and Awareness Programs
(EAP)
Priority High
DRAFT

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-75 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-28 Evacuation Zone Awareness
Lead Agency: Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: ☐Drought
☒Earthquake
☐Extreme Heat
☐Excessive Rain
☐Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Need to promote public understanding of evacuation zones and notification technologies to improve evacuations.

Description of the Solution: Publicize Evacuation Zone Maps and provide training on mapping program use to public safety partners. Continue community outreach to promote local Community Alert System registration.

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: EMPG (Staff Time)
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: Expand awareness of available resources for residents and business owners, focusing on accessibility for individuals in socially vulnerable situations Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact on whole community, including socially vulnerable populations Impact on Future Development: None
Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Safety and Security and Transportation Lifelines Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Public Information and Warning; Critical Transportation; and Community Resilience capabilities
Climate Change Considerations: Climate change impacts can include increased storms and storm intensity, as well as increased wildfire activity, potentially leading to increased evacuations.

2. Unincorporated County of Del Norte
2-76 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
DNC-29 Survey Monument Preservation
Lead Agency: Community Development Department (CDD)
Supporting Agencies:

Hazards of Concern: ☒Drought
☒Earthquake
☒Extreme Heat
☒Excessive Rain
☒Extreme Wind
☒Flood
☒Landslide
☒Tsunami
☒Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Our area is suffering from the destruction of survey monuments and the need for improvement to the regional network of survey monuments.

Description of the Solution: Educate the public on survey monument preservation and enhance the regional network of survey monuments by increasing the number of survey monuments with an emphasis on benchmarks to establish a robust regional network of survey monuments.

Estimated Cost: High (scalable Low to High)
Potential Funding Sources: General Fund, Measure R, Roads Fund, Flood Control Fund Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: Prioritize cost-effective and feasible mitigation measures that reduce long-term risk exposure and promote the adaptive capacity of Del Norte County and its residents.

Benefits: High: Project will have an immediate impact on the reduction of risk exposure to life and/or property.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Positive impact for the whole community, including socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: Positive impact on future development as survey monuments (i.e., benchmarks) provide elevation data to ensure structures are constructed at acceptable elevations relative to risks and assists with verifying compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program.

The regional network of survey monuments is critical for pre-disaster planning and rebuilding post disaster as it provides both horizontal control (e.g., property lines) and vertical control (e.g., elevations) countywide.

Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: Positive impact on Safety and Security; Food, Hydration, Shelter; Health and Medical; Energy; Communications; Transportation; Hazardous Materials; and Water Systems.

Impact on Capabilities: Positive impact on Planning, Community Resilience, and Long-term Vulnerability Reduction
Climate Change Considerations: High, preserving and enhancing the regional network of survey monuments provides critical data to support climate change considerations.

3. City of Crescent City
3-1 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

3. CITY OF CRESCENT CITY
This jurisdictional annex to the Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) provides information to assist public and private sectors in the City of Crescent City with reducing losses from future hazard events. This annex is not guidance of what to do when a disaster occurs; its focus is on actions that can be implemented prior to a disaster to reduce or eliminate damage to property and people. The annex presents a general overview of Crescent City, describes who participated in the planning process, assesses Crescent City’s risk, vulnerability, and capabilities, and outlines a strategy for achieving a more resilient community.

3.1 HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING TEAM
The City of Crescent City identified primary and alternate HMP points of contact and developed this plan over the course of several months, with input from many City departments. Andrew Leighton, Engineering Project Manager, represented the community on the Del Norte County HMP Planning Partnership and Steering Committee, and supported the local planning process by securing input from persons with specific knowledge to enhance the plan. All departments were asked to contribute to the annex development through reviewing and contributing to the capability assessment, reporting on the status of previously identified actions, and participating in action identification and prioritization.

Table 3-1 summarizes City officials who participated in the development of the annex and in what capacity. Additional documentation of the City’s planning activities through Planning Partnership meetings is included in Volume 1.

Table 3-1. Hazard Mitigation Planning Team
Primary Point of Contact Alternate Point of Contact
Name/Title: David Yeager/Public Works Director
Address: 377 J Street; Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone Number: (707) 951-3275
Email: [email protected]
Name/Title: Andrew Leighton/Engineering Project
Manager
Address: 377 J Street; Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone Number: (707) 951-3275
Email: [email protected]
National Flood Insurance Program Floodplain Administrator Name/Title: Ethan Lawton
Address: 1062 G Street, Suite 1; Arcata, CA 95521
Phone Number: (707( 269-1073
Email: [email protected]
Additional Contributors
Name/Title: Eric Wier, City Manager
Method of Participation: Oversight

3.2 COMMUNITY PROFILE
Crescent City, California sits between the mighty Pacific Ocean, ancient California redwood forests and tribal lands, and two wild rivers.

DRAFT
It is noted as the largest city on the Redwoods Coast.

3. City of Crescent City
3-2 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
The city of Crescent City was founded in 1853 when F.E. Weston set up a small mill to cut wood for the lumber industry. The city was incorporated in 1854. When Del Norte County formed in 1857, Crescent City became the County seat. The logging and fishing industries that historically made up the exportbased economy caused boom and bust cycles of employment and population. With the decline of these industries, fluctuations in resident population have dropped. Pelican Bay State Prison was built in 1989, expanding the city limits and adding an inmate (or group quarters) population that effectively doubled the city’s population. The city’s population, including Pelican Bay, makes up roughly 30 percent of Del Norte County residents. As one of the few larger commercial areas within the predominantly rural northern coastal redwoods, the City generally has a higher proportion of land in commercial and service uses. Hotels and harbor uses serve the tourist and fishing industries. While there is a diverse housing stock, with many high-end beachfront homes, a high number tend to be modest wood frame rental units. The former thriving downtown commercial shopping district never recovered from the 1964 tsunami, in which much of the area was destroyed. Newer commercial development has centered on Highway 101.

Crescent City has a City Manager/Council form of government with a five-member elected City Council.

In 2017, the City employed 64 full-time and 25 part-time workers, more than 43 of whom are employed in public works activities. The City of Crescent City assumes responsibility for the adoption of this plan; The City Manager will oversee its implementation.

3.2.1 Service Area and Trends
Crescent City is the only incorporated city in Del Norte County and is California’s northernmost coastal city, 350 miles north of San Francisco and 330 miles south of Portland, Oregon. The city is bordered by the ocean, broad beaches, coastal bluffs, forest and rural county residential development. U.S.

Highway 101 bisects the 1.6 square miles of urbanized city land area.

According to the U.S. Census, the 2022 population for Crescent City was 6,379, a 12.7 percent decrease from the 2010 Census. The Crescent City population has continued to decline, with the U.S. Census estimating the 2024 Crescent City population at 6,209, a 7.0 percent decrease.

Research has shown that some populations are at greater risk from hazard events because of decreased resources or physical abilities. These populations can be more susceptible to hazard events based on a number of factors including their physical and financial ability to react or respond during a hazard, and the location and construction quality of their housing. Data from the 2022 U.S. Census indicates that 2.9 percent of the population is 5 years of age or younger, 13.5 percent is 65 years of age or older, 2.3 percent is non-English speaking, 15.1 percent is below the poverty threshold, and 14.8 percent is considered disabled.

As a coastal town, Crescent City has weather that remains cool throughout the year, with summer temperatures averaging 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit and winter temperatures averaging 40-50 degrees.

Annual rainfall averages 75 inches per year, with the occasional severe winter storm bringing winds of up to 90 miles per hour. Due to its geography, and drainage to the ocean, flooding has not brought many problems to the town. Crescent City has experienced tsunami conditions 17 times between 1943 and 1994, the most
DRAFT
significant being the 1964 tsunami, which resulted in 12 fatalities.

3. City of Crescent City
3-3 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
In addition to the city proper, the City annexed the area around the Pelican Bay Prison in 1991. Maps of this area appear in the Jurisdictional Risk Assessment below.

3.3 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to the public that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. Del Norte County is sparsely populated with the majority of government and private services available in Crescent City, including grocery stores, hardware stores, and restaurants. The County posted information about the HMP update on the County Facebook page and on the OES website. Flyers advertising the HMP update were canvassed across Crescent City. The public was invited to participate in the planning process by responding to the public survey, attending a virtual Steering Committee meeting, attending an in-person meeting, and reviewing the draft plan.

In addition to that work, the City partnered with the County to post information about the HMP update in the few public services available in the City, including the County Administrative offices, State Farm Insurance, Crescent City Harbor, Open Door Clinic, Pacific Northwest Physical Therapy, and the Crescent City Library. Figure 3-1 shows an example outreach effort and Appendix A includes all outreach efforts.

Figure 3-1. Public Outreach by Crescent City

3.3.1 Public Feedback Integration
Of the 196 responses to the public survey, 69 respondents reported that they received services from the District. These 69 respondents were extremely or very concerned about earthquakes, tsunamis, and wildfires. They reported receiving emergency information through mass notifications, government websites and newsletters, TV/radio, and Facebook. They expressed concern about the lack of backup power facilities, homes located in hazard areas, and vulnerable roads. The mitigation strategy was prioritized with these concerns and community limitations in mi DRAFT
nd.

3. City of Crescent City
3-4 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

3.4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to stakeholders that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. This section focuses on the stakeholders invited to participate in the planning process by the County. The following organizations were invited to participate by attending a Steering Committee meeting, responding to the stakeholder survey, contributing information and expertise to the plan, and reviewing the draft plan.

3.4.1 Local and Regional Agencies Involved in Hazard Mitigation Activities The planning process included active participation from local and regional agencies with direct responsibilities in hazard mitigation. Public works and engineering departments contributed infrastructure data and identified vulnerabilities. Emergency management officials provided guidance on preparedness and response capabilities. Fire protection services and regional water agencies offered insights into wildfire risk, water infrastructure, and emergency response coordination. These agencies played a key role in shaping mitigation strategies and ensuring alignment with existing emergency plans.
• City of Crescent City
• Del Norte County OES
• CalOES
• CalFire
• Caltrans

3.4.2 Agencies that Have the Authority to Regulate Development Agencies with regulatory authority over land use and development were engaged to ensure that mitigation strategies could be effectively integrated into local planning frameworks. This included community development and building departments, planning commissions, and city councils.

Environmental health officials also participated, offering expertise on regulatory requirements related to public health and safety. Their involvement ensured that proposed actions were feasible and aligned with local codes and ordinances.
• Del Norte County Planning Division
• City of Crescent City

3.4.3 Neighboring Communities
Agencies with regulatory authority over land use and development were engaged to ensure that mitigation strategies could be effectively integrated into local planning frameworks. This included community development and building departments, planning commissions, and city councils.

3. City of Crescent City
3-5 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Del Norte County
• Elk Valley Rancheria
• Tolowa dee-ni’ Nation
• Tolowa Nation
• Yurok Tribe
• Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People
• Bertsch Oceanview Community Services District
• Big Rock Community Services District
• Crescent Fire Protection District
• Crescent City Harbor District
• Gasquet Community Services District
• Klamath Community Services District
• Smith River Community Services District
• Smith River Fire Protection District
• Del Norte County Library District

3.4.4 Representatives of Business, Academia, and Other Private Organizations
The planning team engaged representatives from the business community, academic institutions, and private sector organizations. Local businesses and utility providers contributed perspectives on economic resilience and infrastructure continuity. Academic institutions provided technical expertise and helped assess long-term risks. This diverse input helped ensure that the plan addressed the needs of the broader community and supported public-private collaboration in mitigation efforts. • Del Norte Chamber of Commerce
• Del Norte Unified School District
• Pacific Power
• Frontier Communications
• Spectrum
• Blue Star Gas
• Pelican Bay State Prison

3.4.5 Nonprofit Organizations and Community-Based Organizations Nonprofit and community-based organizations were included to ensure that the needs of vulnerable populations were considered in the planning process. These organizations offered valuable insights into community outreach, emergency support services, and equity considerations. Their participation helped strengthen the plan
DRAFT ’s focus on inclusive and accessible mitigation strategies.

3. City of Crescent City
3-6 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Del Norte Department of Health & Social Services
• Crescent City Housing Authority
• Rural Human Services
• Sutter Coast Hospital
• American Red Cross Del Norte County Chapter
• Del Norte and Tribal Lands Community Food Council

3.5 JURISDICTIONAL CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT AND INTEGRATION Crescent City performed an inventory and analysis of existing capabilities, plans, programs, and policies that enhance its ability to implement mitigation strategies. Volume 1 describes the components included in the capability assessment and their significance for hazard mitigation planning. The jurisdictional assessment for this annex includes analyses of the following:
• Planning and regulatory capabilities
• Development and permitting capabilities
• Administrative and technical capabilities
• Fiscal capabilities
• Education and outreach capabilities
• Classification under various community mitigation programs • Adaptive capacity to withstand hazard events
For a community to succeed in reducing long-term risk, hazard mitigation must be integrated into dayto-day local government operations. As part of the hazard mitigation analysis, planning and policy documents were reviewed and each jurisdiction was surveyed to obtain a better understanding of their progress toward plan integration. Development of an updated mitigation strategy provided an opportunity for Crescent City to identify opportunities for integrating mitigation concepts into ongoing City procedures.

3.5.1 Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Table 3-2 summarizes the planning and regulatory tools that are available to Crescent City.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-7 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 3-2. Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Capability
Jurisdiction
has this?
Citation and Date (code chapter or
name of plan, date of enactment or
plan adoption)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Codes, Ordinances, & Regulations
Building Code Yes California Building Code adopted
2022, Electrical, mechanical,
plumbing 2022 California Code of
Regulations Chapter 15.04
Local Sean Rosenthal /
Building Inspector &
Dan Minges / Building
Official
In 2008, Crescent City adopted the International Code Council as adopted by the State Department of Housing and Community Development, Division of Codes and Standards, the 2007 edition of the California Building Code Part 1 through Part 6 and Part 9.

Zoning/Land Use
Code
Yes Crescent City Municipal Code Title 17
(zoning)—Ord. 700 § 5 (Exhibit A
(part)), 2003: Ord. 695 § 2 (part),
2003
Local Planning Department
• Does the zoning ordinance conform to the comprehensive plan in terms of discouraging development or redevelopment within natural hazard areas? This is done during application review and not through overlay zones. • Does the ordinance contain natural hazard overlay zones that set conditions for land use within such zones? The City has Hazard mapping used in application review but no formal overlay zones. • Does the ordinance prohibit development within, or filling of, wetlands, floodways, and floodplains? This is done during application review and not through zoning ordinance provisions. See also Municipal Code 15.32 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
• Is a zoning code in place to encourage resilient development through density bonuses for projects outside of natural hazard areas? Yes, City has Density Bonus Ordinance, and this would be one consideration. • Do rezoning procedures recognize natural hazard areas as limits on zoning changes that allow greater intensity or density of use? No, this is done during application review and not through overlay zone. • If applicable, is there a wildland-urban interface development code in place to prohibit or limit development in high wildfire risk areas? This is done during application review and not through overlay zone.

Subdivision Code Yes Crescent City Municipal Code Title 16 (subdivisions) – Ord. 587 (part), 1983;
prior code § 29-1001
Local Planning, Building&
Public Works
This is done during application review with City departments and through CEQA and not through the subdivision code.

The City has few lots left to be able to subdivide so not an important factor. • Do the subdivision regulations restrict the subdivision of land within or next to natural hazard areas? This would be done during application review with City departments and through CEQA and not through the subdivision code. • Do the regulations provide for conservation subdivisions or cluster subdivisions to conserve environmental resources? This would be done during application review with City departments and through CEQA and not through the subdivision code.
• Do the regulations allow density transfers where hazard areas exist? This would be done during application review with City departments and through CEQA and not through the subdivision code.

Site Plan Code Yes California Building Code adopted
2022 & California Green Building
Standard Code 2022
Local Planning & Building
Inspection
This would be done during application review with City departments and through CEQA and not through the subdivision code. Stormwater mitigation & soil condition to determine whether building site is allowed.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-8 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Capability
Jurisdiction
has this?
Citation and Date (code chapter or
name of plan, date of enactment or
plan adoption)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Stormwater
Management Code
Yes CCMC Chapter 12.36, Title 12.-Ord.
697 § 2 (part), 2003: Ord. 695 § 2
(part), 2003 & California Green
Building Standard Code 2022
Local Planning, Building&
Public Works
This would be done during application review with City departments and through CEQA and not through the subdivision code. Code prohibits illegal discharges and illicit connections. Environmental and property damage mitigation through engineered design and flow calculations (ref. Stormwater Master Plan).

Real Estate
Disclosure
Requirements
Yes CA. State Civil Code 1102 State, local Planning, Building & Public Works
The City has a pre-application process and is available to be done during application review with City departments and through CEQA and not through the subdivision code. CA. State Civil Code 1102 requires full disclosure on Natural hazard exposure of the sale/re-sale of any and all real property.

Growth Management No City 6th Cycle Housing Element, 2023 Local Planning Dept The 2023 Housing Element has identified vacant or underdeveloped parcels that can be developed which are not subject to Hazards.

The City is in compliance with State growth management mandates via 2001 adoption of General Plan and the City 6th Cycle Housing Element, 2023.

Environmental
Protection
Ordinance(s)
No CEQA, General Plan Section 6
Natural resources Adopted 2001
Local, State Planning Dept
Currently reviewed during application process
The City complies with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and General Plan Section 6 Natural resources Adopted 2001.

Flood Damage
Prevention
Ordinance
Yes Crescent City Municipal Code,
Chapter 15.32 (Ord. No. 802, § 1, 1-
22-2018)
Local Planning, Building &
Public Works
New construction must meet CBC & CMCC ordinance standards. Variances require planning commission approval.

See also Municipal Code 15.32 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Climate Change
Ordinance
Yes AB 691 State State Lands
Commission
AB 691 requires all trustees of state lands with annual gross revenues exceeding $250,000 to prepare and submit an analysis of sea level rise adaptation strategies to the State Lands Commission. See also https://opc.ca.gov/wpcontent/uploads/2024/05/California-Sea-Level-Rise-Guidance-2024-508.pdf for specific sea level scenarios for Crescent City. WWTP is undergoing a planning study to determine necessary operational equipment upgrades and climate change effects will be included per building code.

Fire Hazard Severity
Zones
Yes Ordinance No. 855 City City of Crescent City
On May 2, 2025, the City adopted the Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones as identified by CAL FIRE.

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3. City of Crescent City
3-9 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Capability
Jurisdiction
has this?
Citation and Date (code chapter or
name of plan, date of enactment or
plan adoption)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Planning Documents
General Plan Yes General Plan Section 7 Health and
Safety Adopted 2001, Housing
Element 2023
Local Planning
• Does the future land-use map clearly identify natural hazard areas? No, hazard areas contained in separate map • Do the land use policies discourage development or redevelopment within natural hazard areas? Yes, General Plan Section 7 Health and Safety
• Does the plan leave enough space for expected future growth in areas outside natural hazard areas? Yes. Through Housing Element policies where the City is encouraging higher densities in low hazard areas.

Capital Improvement
Plan
Yes Capital Improvement Plan Local Linda Leaver /
Finance Director /
Crescent City
The Capital Improvement Plan is a five-year plan that is updated annually and identifies projects for roads, water, and sewer infrastructure.
• Does the capital improvement program limit spending on projects that would encourage development in areas vulnerable to natural hazards? No, in fact the CIP reflects the extreme spending required to develop and maintain projects in vulnerable areas. WWTP CCFD, CCPD, & Beachfront Park are in tsunami zone, Ranney collector is in flooding of Smith river, elevated tank is being decommissioned due to seismic vulnerabilities, and Pebble Beach is stabilizing a bluff due to storm surge erosion.
• Do infrastructure policies limit extension of existing facilities and services that would encourage development in areas vulnerable to natural hazards? There are no policies in place to limit improvements or discourage development in vulnerable areas.
• Does the capital improvement program provide funding for hazard mitigation projects identified in the FEMA Mitigation Plan? Some projects have hazard mitigation synergies, but there isn’t an account or budget line item specifically for hazard mitigation.

Floodplain
Management or
Watershed Plan
Yes General Plan Section 7 Health and
Safety Adopted 2001. See also
Municipal Code 15.32 Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance
local Planning, Building &
Public Works
• Does the plan include policies that restrict development that would increase downstream flooding? Yes, General Plan Section 7 Health and Safety Adopted 2001. See also Municipal Code 15.32 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
• Does the plan include policies that restrict development that would increase sedimentation or erosion? No, but the City requires adherence to the Caltrans Storm Water BMP Handbook in construction bidding process Stormwater
Management Plan
Yes City of Crescent City General Plan
Section 4E, 2001 and Local Coastal
Plan Extract Policy Document, 2011
Local Public Works
The City is exempt from the requirements to have a Stormwater Management Plan. The City has been upgrading outdated stormwater facilities. Stormwater is considered in application review processes in order to improve handling of flood flows.

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3. City of Crescent City
3-10 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Capability
Jurisdiction
has this?
Citation and Date (code chapter or
name of plan, date of enactment or
plan adoption)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Open Space Plan Yes General Plan Sections General Plan
Mapping 2017
local Planning
Past Land Use decisions have been incorporated into the City’s General Plan/Mapping for Open Space and Natural resource designations. Areas include Beachfront Park in the 1964 tsunami damaged portion of the City, setbacks from coastal bluffs and near flood zones. Public property designated Open Space includes parks, and playgrounds, vista areas, general open spaces, beaches, wooded areas, drainage channels, airport flight path zones and marinas. • Does the plan prioritize open green spaces? Yes, where necessary. • Are such spaces planned in areas with high impervious surface coverage? No, mostly natural or park areas • Does the plan keep in mind the need for tree cover to mitigate the urban heat island effect? Are tree cover expansion projects planned in high-heat areas? This is not an issue in Crescent City Urban Water
Management Plan
Yes City General Plan, 2001 Section 4 Local Planning
City General Plan, 2001 Section 4 Public Facilities and Services discusses water supply and delivery.

Economic
Development Plan
Yes Economic Development Strategic
Action Plan, 2021
Local Economic
Development
The City Council adopted the Economic Development Strategic Action Plan on June 2021. The uncertainty of tsunamis is noted as affecting economic development. The Plan otherwise lacks integration with the HMP. Recipe 1Z encourages adoption of new “recipes,” which could include integration.

Transportation Plan Yes Del Norte Active Transportation Plan County Del Norte Local Transportation
Commission
• Does the transportation plan limit access to hazard areas? No, emergency evacuation would be needed from these areas. Improvements such as signage and gate across jetty, bridge over Elk Creek above 100-yr flood elevation, and improving traffic flow along Front Street and Pebble Beach Dr (for both motorized and non-motorized vehicle) integrates transportation planning into HMP
• Is transportation policy used to guide growth to safe locations? The City is mostly developed. Focus is to assure emergency evacuation in all areas of the City
• Are movement systems designed to function under disaster conditions (e.g., evacuation)? The City is integrating evacuation needs with priority transportation projects
• Does the transportation plan promote compact, mixed-use development near transit hubs and away from high hazard areas? The Transportation Plan is integrated with the City’s Downtown mixed use zone and transit hub.

Urban Water
Management Plan
Yes 2020 Urban Water Management Plan
for Crescent City, CA
Local Department of Public
Works
The Urban Water Management Plan was prepared in compliance with requirements of the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) pursuant to the Urban Water Management Planning Act (UWMP Act) and the Water Conservation Bill of 2009. The plan includes a review and evaluation of historic precipitation data, historic Smith River discharge, and historic groundwater elevations in the Smith River Plain Groundwater Basin.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-11 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Capability
Jurisdiction
has this?
Citation and Date (code chapter or
name of plan, date of enactment or
plan adoption)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Response/Recovery Planning
Emergency
Operations Plan
No Emergency Operations Plan, 2021 County CCFD
The City uses the County-wide plan adopted in 2021.
• Does your CEMP cover short-term response and long-term recovery to address communications, evacuation, and housing necessary for identified hazards? Yes
• Is there an adopted evacuation and shelter plan to deal with emergencies from natural hazards? Yes • Are evacuation routes located outside of floodplains, sea level rise inundation zones, or liquefaction zones? Evacuation routes defined from high risk location to low risk location. (reference Tsunami). • Are there emergency communication systems in place? Yes • Are those systems deployed in areas with the highest potential hazard exposure? Yes Plan Integration
Table 3-2 lists the local planning mechanisms currently in place for the City. Several of these mechanisms such as the General Plan, Building Code, Zoning Code, and Capital Improvement Plan have already been integrated into the HMP. These documents incorporate hazard-related policies, including seismic safety standards, floodplain development restrictions, and growth management strategies.

The HMP builds on these foundations by identifying mitigation actions that align with and support existing policies, ensuring that hazard mitigation is not treated as a standalone effort but as a coordinated component of broader community planning. As these local plans are updated, information from the HMP, such as risk assessments, vulnerability data, and prioritized projects can be incorporated to maintain consistency and reinforce long-term resilience goals.

This integration enhances the City’s overall risk management framework and ensures that future HMP updates are informed by comprehensive, data-driven insights. By aligning planning efforts across departments and documents, the City strengthens its ability to mitigate risks and adapt to evolving environmental conditions.

3.5.2 Development and Permitting Capability
Table 3-3 summarizes the capabilities of Crescent City to oversee and track development.

3.5.3 Administrative and Technical Capability
Table 3-4 summarizes potential staff and personnel resources available to Crescent City and their current responsibilities that contribute to hazard mitigation.

3.5.4 Fiscal Capability
Table 3-5 summarizes financial resources available
DRAFT
to Crescent City.

3. City of Crescent City
3-12 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 3-3. Development and Permitting Capability
Yes/ No Comment
Do you issue development permits? Yes Planning division for review. Building department for issuance & inspection.
• If you issue development permits, what
department is responsible?
• If you do not issue development permits,
what is your process for tracking new
development?
Are permits tracked by hazard area? (For
example, floodplain development permits.)
No -
Do you have a buildable land inventory? No
• If you have a buildable land inventory,
please describe
Vacant lot property list in Housing Element 2023
Describe the level of buildout in your
jurisdiction.

N/A Without reference to actual numbers (additional
information may be available in the City’s Housing
Element 2023), the City is built out with few
remaining vacant parcels. However, much of the
developed area is more than 40 years old. There
is an opportunity to redevelop properties to contain
higher densities.

Table 3-4. Administrative and Technical Capabilities
Resources Available? Comment
Administrative Capability
Planning Board Yes The City has a planning commission
Zoning Board of Adjustment No -
Planning Department Yes SHN - The City currently contracts with SHN to provide full planning services (Planning Dept)
Mitigation Planning Committee No Done through Planning Dept Environmental Board/Commission No Done through Planning Dept Open Space Board/Committee No Done through Planning Dept Economic Development
Commission/Committee
No Economic Development Manager – 1 Manager
Public Works/Highway Department Yes Public Works
Construction/Building/Code Enforcement
Department
Yes Building Department
Emergency Management/Public Safety
Department
No -
Maintenance programs to reduce risk
(stormwater maintenance, tree trimming,
etc.)
Yes Public Works
Mutual aid agreements Yes The City of Crescent City has a mutual aid agreement with DRAFT
PBSP and the US Park Service.

3. City of Crescent City
3-13 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Resources Available? Comment
Human Resources Manual - Do any job
descriptions specifically include identifying
or implementing mitigation projects or other
efforts to reduce natural hazard risk?
No Jenn Petross
Technical/Staffing Capability
Planners or engineers with knowledge of
land development and land management
practices
Yes Planning Dept—1 to 3 city planners, as needed and 1 city engineer.

Engineers or professionals trained in
building or infrastructure construction
practices
Yes Public Works Department—1 Director; 1 Wastewater
Treatment Plant Supervisor; 1 Project Manager, 1
Engineering Technician. City can also contract for these services
Planners or engineers with an
understanding of natural hazards
Yes Planning Dept., Public Works
Staff with expertise or training in
benefit/cost analysis
Yes Finance Director
Professionals trained in conducting damage
assessments
Yes Public Works Department – 1 City Manager, 1 Engineering Project Manager
Personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or
Hazus applications
Yes The Admin Department includes an Information Technology (IT) division that include 1 senior GIS Analyst
Staff that work with socially vulnerable
populations or underserved communities
Yes Housing Department – 1 Director, 1 Staff
Environmental scientists familiar with
natural hazards
Yes No Scientists on City Staff. City can and has contracted for survey work on as needed basis.

Surveyors No No licensed Surveyors on City Staff. City can and has contracted for survey work on as needed basis.

Emergency manager Yes City Manager, Fire Chief, County Office of Emergency Services
Grant writers Yes Grants and Economic Development Manager – 1 Manager Consider the following:

Are data and maps from the HMP used to support
documentation in grant applications?
Other (this could include stormwater
engineer, environmental specialist, etc.)
While this is a Yes/ No table asking about capabilities, it should be noted that rural cities have to abide by the same overwhelming requirements of State legislation as more
urban cities who have numerous staff. So, while the City has capable staff, it is often diverted from completing the important tasks to the urgent tasks the State mandates.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-14 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 3-5. Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resources Accessible or Eligible to Use?
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG, CDBG-DR) Yes
Capital improvement project funding Yes
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes Yes
User fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric service Yes (Water & Sewer) Impact fees for homebuyers or developers of new
development/homes
City can but does not implement impact fees
Stormwater utility fee City can but does not implement fees Incur debt through general obligation bonds Yes
Incur debt through special tax bonds Yes
Incur debt through private activity bonds No
Withhold public expenditures in hazard-prone areas No
Other federal or state funding programs Yes
Open Space Acquisition funding programs City can but does not generally acquire properties as part of development due to longterm maintenance requirements Other (for example, Clean Water Act 319 Grants [Nonpoint Source Pollution])

3.5.5 Education and Outreach Capability
Table 3-6 summarizes the education and outreach resources available to Crescent City.

Table 3-6. Education and Outreach Capabilities
Outreach Resources Available? Comment
Public information officer or communications office Yes Communications office Personnel skilled or trained in website development Yes On staff Hazard mitigation information available on your website Yes Cal OES MyHazards/Tsunami Warning Center
Social media for hazard mitigation education and
outreach
No -
Citizen boards or commissions that address issues
related to hazard mitigation
No -
Warning systems for hazard events Yes Tsunami Sirens
Natural disaster/safety programs in place for schools No - Organizations that conduct outreach to socially
vulnerable populations and underserved populations
No -
Public outreach mechanisms / programs to inform
citizens on natural hazards, risk, and ways to protect
themselves during such events
Yes Del Norte Community Alert System, DRAFT
Facebook, radio

3. City of Crescent City
3-15 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

3.5.6 Community Classifications
Table 3-7 summarizes classifications for community programs available to Crescent City.

Table 3-7. Community Classifications
Program Participating? Classification Date Classified
Community Rating System (CRS) No - -
Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule
(BCEGS)
No - -
Public Protection (ISO Fire Protection Classes 1 to
10)
No - -
National Weather Service StormReady Certification No - - Firewise Communities classification No - -

3.5.7 Adaptive Capacity
Adaptive capacity is defined as “the ability of systems, institutions, humans and other organisms to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or respond to consequences” (IPCC 2022). Each jurisdiction has a unique combination of capabilities to adjust to, protect from, and withstand a future hazard event, future conditions, and changing risk. Table 3-8 summarizes the adaptive capacity for each identified hazard of concern and the City’s capability to address related actions using the following classifications:
• Strong adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does have the capability to effectively respond, plans/policies exceed minimum requirements; deployable resources all of which decreases vulnerability.
• Moderate adaptive capacity means minimum requirements are in place; moderate capabilities; mitigation measures are identified but not implemented widespread; jurisdiction can recover but needs outside resources.
• Weak adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does not have the capability to effectively respond, which leads to an increase in vulnerability. Examples include weak/outdated/inconsistent plans, policies, codes/ordinances in place; no redundancies; limited to no deployable resources; limited capabilities to respond; long recovery.

3.6 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM COMPLIANCE
This section provides specific information on the management and regulation of the regulatory floodplain, including current and future compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The floodplain administrator listed in
DRAFT
Table 3-1 is responsible for maintaining this information.

3. City of Crescent City
3-16 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 3-8. Adaptive Capacity
Hazard Adaptive Capacity - Strong/Moderate/Weak
Drought Moderate
Extreme Heat Moderate
Extreme Wind Moderate
Excessive Rain Moderate
Earthquake Moderate
Flood Moderate
Landslide Moderate
Tsunami High
Wildfire High

3.6.1 Repetitive Loss
The OpenFEMA NFIP Multiple Loss Properties dataset was analyzed to gain an understanding of repetitive flood loss in the City. The dataset provides information on structures that have had multiple NFIP claims across the history of the program. According to the dataset, there are no repetitive loss or severe repetitive loss properties in the City of Crescent City.

3.6.2 Flood Vulnerability Summary
Table 3-9 provides a summary of the NFIP program in Crescent City.

Table 3-9. NFIP Summary
NFIP Topic Comments
Flood Vulnerability Summary
Describe areas prone to flooding in your jurisdiction. The only area in City Limits is limited to Elk Creek flood zone and coastline coastal hazards
Do you maintain a list of properties that have been
damaged by flooding?
No recent flooding events on Elk Creek have
occurred that damaged properties. Storm damage
along western coastal bluffs (Pebble Beach Drive)
occurred in 2023
Do you maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation?
No inquiries have been made since last HMP
update. As part of storm damage along western
coastal bluffs (Pebble Beach Drive) that occurred in
2023, 1 undevelopable property was quit claimed to
the City.

How many homeowners and/or business owners are
interested in mitigation (elevation or acquisition)?
Are any RiskMAP projects currently underway in your
jurisdiction?
If so, state what projects are underway.

There are no RiskMAP projects within City Limits
How do you make Substantial Damage determinations? Public Works and Building Dept.

How many Substantial Damage determinations were
declared for recent flood events in your jurisdiction?
DRAFT
There were none made since last HMP

3. City of Crescent City
3-17 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
NFIP Topic Comments
How many properties have been mitigated (elevation or
acquisition) in your jurisdiction?
If there are mitigation properties, how were the projects funded?
None
Do your flood hazard maps adequately address the flood
risk within your jurisdiction?
If not, state why.

Yes
NFIP Compliance
What local department is responsible for floodplain
management?
Planning Dept, Community Development Director
under Public Works Dept.

Are any certified floodplain managers on staff in your
jurisdiction?
No
Do you have access to resources to determine possible
future flooding conditions from climate change?
See https://opc.ca.gov/wpcontent/uploads/2024/05/California-Sea-Level-RiseGuidance-2024-508.pdf for specific sea level scenarios for Crescent City
Does your floodplain management staff need any
assistance or training to support its floodplain management program?
If so, what type of assistance/training is needed?
No but it would be helpful to transfer FEMA data to
City’s GIS
Provide an explanation of NFIP administration services you provide (e.g., permit review, GIS, education/outreach,
inspections, engineering capability)
Review City’s Hazard mapping and Firmette during
permit application review
How do you determine if proposed development on an
existing structure would qualify as a substantial
improvement?
Foundation seismic retrofit, increase in square
footage, addition, or remodel which required code
inspection.

What are the barriers to running an effective NFIP program in the community, if any?
Time and funding and minimal flooding concerns
Does your jurisdiction have any outstanding NFIP
compliance violations that need to be addressed?
If so, state the violations.

No
When was the most recent Community Assistance Visit
(CAV) or Community Assistance Contact (CAC)?
City has not had a CAV or CAC event.

What is the local law number or municipal code of your
flood damage prevention ordinance?
Municipal Code Section 15.32, Jan 22, 2018
What is the date that your flood damage prevention
ordinance was last amended?
Jan 22, 2018
Does your floodplain management program meet or
exceed minimum requirements?
If exceeds, in what ways?
It meets minimum requirements
Are there other local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g., site plan review) that support floodplain management and meeting the NFIP requirements? For instance, does the
planning board or zoning board consider efforts to reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height
restrictions?
Planning/Planning Commission would except the
City hasn’t had development proposed in FEMA
DRAFT
flood zones since last HMP update

3. City of Crescent City
3-18 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
NFIP Topic Comments
Does your community plan to join the CRS program or is
your community interested in improving your CRS
classification?
The city does not plan to join the CRS and there is
no community interest in improving our CRS
classification. The number of residents in a NFIP
flood zone does not justify the resources required for
this application process.

3.7 JURISDICTIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 provide detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards, including summaries of Crescent City’s risk assessment results and data used to determine the hazard ranking. Key local risk assessment information is presented below.

3.7.1 Hazard Area
Hazard area maps provided below illustrate the probable hazard areas impacted within the city are shown in Figure 3-2 and Figure 3-3. These maps are based on the best available data at the time of the preparation of this plan and are adequate for planning purposes. Maps are provided only for hazards that can be identified clearly using mapping techniques and technologies and for which Crescent City has significant exposure. The maps show the location of potential new development, where available.

3.7.2 Hazard Event History
The history of natural and non-natural hazard events in Crescent City is detailed in Volume 1, where each hazard profile includes a chronology of historical events that have affected the County and its municipalities. Table 3-10 provides details on loss and damage in Crescent City during hazard events since the last hazard mitigation plan update.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-19 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Figure 3-2. Crescent City Flood, Tsunami, and NEHRP Soil Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-20 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Figure 3-3. Crescent City Wildfire and Landslide Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-21 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 3-10. Hazard Event History in Crescent City
Dates of Event
Event Type
(Disaster
Declaration)
County
Designated? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage and
Losses in Crescent City
February 24 to
March 1, 2019
Severe Storm
DR-4434-CA
Yes, Federal An atmospheric river spread across
northern California and produced
heavy rain that led to localized
flooding. Impacts included flooding
on Highway 199 along the west
shoulder and northbound lane.

None
January 20,
2020 to May
11, 2023
Pandemic
(COVID-19)
DR-4482-CA
EM-3428-CA
Yes, Federal The first confirmed case in California
was reported on January 25, 2020.

Del Norte County experienced
surges in COVID-19 cases in
December 2020, August to
September 2021, January to
February 2022, and July 2022.

Overall, Del Norte reported 8,005
confirmed cases and 62 fatalities
between 2020 and 2023.

Projects delayed due to
limited working hours;
rampant inflation caused
cancellation of Amador water
tank rehabilitation project.

September 4
to November
17, 2020
Wildfire
DR-4569-CA
CA20-3
Yes, State and
Federal
Record-breaking hot temperatures
exacerbated existing fire conditions,
leading to drier conditions and
allowing wind to facilitate the rapid
spread of new fires. One complex,
the Slater Fire, spread into Del Norte
County and caused damage to
roadways.

None
December 27,
2022 to
January 31,
2023
Flood
DR-4683-CA
CA23-1
Yes, State and
Federal
Atmospheric river led to multiple
heavy rainstorms and strong winds in
late December and January. Strong
wind caused multiple trees to fall,
leading to blockages on Highways
101, 197, and 199, and Parkway
Drive. Downed power lines caused
multiple fires. Over 10,000 customers
without power in and around
Crescent City due to strong winds.

Loss of 30+ trees in city
parks. CalOES refund for
expenses still pending
payment.

February 21 to
July 10, 2023
Severe
Storm, Flood
DR-4699-CA
EM-3592-CA
CA23-3
Yes, State and
Federal
Severe storms and high winds led to
mudslides and landslides. Downed
trees blocked portions of Highway
199.

None
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-22 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Dates of Event
Event Type
(Disaster
Declaration)
County
Designated? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage and
Losses in Crescent City
August 15,
2023
Wildfire
CA23-5
Yes, State Dry thunderstorms produced
lightning strikes across the Six Rivers
National Forest. 27 fires developed in
the Gasquet Ranger District and
grew rapidly, jumping Highway 199
causing a 3-week closure and
resulting in the evacuation of the
Town of Gasquet. The fire destroyed
high-tension powerlines powering all
of Del Norte County. The County was
without power through August 25
when generators were installed. Main
transmission lines were not repaired
until September 10. The fire burned
into October with a total of 95,000
acres burned plus 2 residences and
3 minor structures destroyed.

Loss of electricity in Crescent
City for 7 days. Pacific Power
brought in many generators
and ran from diesel for a
couple of weeks thereafter.

Variable Frequency Drive at
Ranney well failed on 2
pumps due to power surge.

City ran on one available
pump for 6 months with risk
of insufficient water in case of
large scale local fire. Extreme
city crew overtime and
emergency contracts for lift
station pumping due to lack
of backup generators. Failure
of generator at Chlorination
plant due to age of engine
and extended use. Failure of
generator at Ranney well due
to circuit board failure.

Significant smoke in area for
respiratory issues.

January 13,
2024
High Wind N/A An atmospheric river resulted in 3 to
7 inches of rainfall in roughly 8 to 10
hours. This resulted in the highest
flows on the Mad River and
Redwood Creek since the 1970s.

Widespread creek flooding occurred
in Del Norte and Humboldt with
multiple homes damaged or
destroyed.

Loss of bluff in block failure
on South Pebble Beach Drive
between 6th & 7th streets.

Estimated temporary repair
$5M.

EM = FEMA Emergency Declaration; DR = FEMA Major Disaster Declaration

3.7.3 Hazard Ranking
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 have detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. The following presents key risk assessment results for Crescent City.

The participating jurisdictions have differing degrees of vulnerability to the hazards of concern, so each jurisdiction ranked its own degree of risk to each hazard. The community-specific hazard ranking is based on problems and impacts identified by the risk assessment presented in Volume 1. The ranking process involves an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence for each hazard; the potential impacts of the hazard on people, property, and the economy; community capabilities to address the hazard; and changing future climate conditions. Crescent City reviewed the County hazard ranking and individual results to assess the relative risk of the hazards of concern to the community. During the review of the hazard ranking,
DRAFT
Crescent City indicated the following:

3. City of Crescent City
3-23 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• High rainfall and plentiful water supply from Smith River means that the City does not experience drought conditions
• Coastal proximity means very stable and lower temperatures compared with the rest of the County
• Winter storms bring extreme wind that cause power outages and tree fall damage in city parks • Excessive rainfall during winter storms caused and will continue to cause landslide failure of S.

Pebble Beach Drive
• Proximity to the Cascadia Subduction Zone is a major concern for the City • Per FEMA flood maps there is only one city block of the city in a flood zone • While the risk of wildfires within City boundaries is lower than other part of the county, smoke and power outages caused by wildfires have historically impacted the City Table 3-11 shows Crescent City’s final hazard rankings for identified hazards of concern. Mitigation action development uses the ranking to target hazards with the highest risk.

Table 3-11. Hazard Ranking
Hazard Rank
Drought Low
Extreme Temperature Low
Extreme Wind Medium
Excess Rain Medium
Earthquake Medium
Flood Low
Landslide Medium
Tsunami High
Wildfire Medium
Note: The scale is based on the hazard rankings established in Volume 1, modified as appropriate based on review by the jurisdiction

3.7.4 Identified Issues
After review of Crescent City’s hazard event history, hazard rankings, hazard location, and current capabilities, Crescent City identified the following vulnerabilities within the community:
• Tsunami
• It is estimated that there are 417 structures located in tsunami inundation areas including 230 residential properties and 164 commercial properties; however, there are only 23 flood insurance policies in force in the City.
• Earthquake
• More than 87 percent of the housing stock was built before modern seismic codes were in force
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-24 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Flooding
• In 2017 FEMA revised the Flood Insurance Rate Maps for the City of Crescent City. The revised maps are no longer based on the 1964 Tsunami and only reflect storm surge and flooding potential associated with the Elk Creek Floodplain. As a result, many of the critical facilities that were in a mapped 1-percent annual chance flood zone have been removed.

However, critical facilities used for storing fuel and many commercial structures are located within a 1 percent chance flood zone.
• Landslides
• Coastal bluffs and public infrastructure located along the bluffs have been impacted by winter storms. Several locations along the coastline are experiencing landslides resulting in coastal bluff retreat. City streets, parking lots, storm drains and water and sewer lines are at risk.

Mitigation actions addressing these issues were prioritized for consideration in the action plan presented in the following section.

3.8 CONDITIONS THAT MAY IMPACT RISK

3.8.1 Population Pattern Trends
Population projections from the California Department of Finance (DOF) show that the population of Del Norte County is expected to decrease through the year 2070. Projections are not available for municipalities. However, DOF releases annual population estimates. From January 1, 2024, to January 1, 2025, Crescent City’s population rose by 8.4 percent from 5,588 people to 6,056 people. Considering the percentage of children under the age of five is only 2.9 percent in Crescent City, it seems more likely that the increase in population accounts for people moving to Crescent City rather than children being born. If this is the case, this means people unfamiliar with the climate and hazard environment of Del Norte may be moving to the City.

3.8.2 Changes in Land Use and Development
Understanding how past, current, and projected development patterns have or are likely to increase or decrease risk in hazard areas is a key component to appreciating a jurisdiction’s overall risk to its hazards of concern. Recent and expected future development trends, including major residential/commercial development and major infrastructure development, are summarized in Table 3-12 through
DRAFT
Table 3-14.

3. City of Crescent City
3-25 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 3-12. Number of Building Permits for New Construction Issued Since the Previous HMP New Construction Permits Issued
Single Family Multi-Family Other (commercial, mixed-use, etc.) Total 2019
Total Permits N/A N/A N/A N/A
Permits within SFHA N/A N/A N/A N/A
2020
Total Permits 2 0 8 108
Permits within SFHA 0 0 0 0
2021
Total Permits 3 0 17 124
Permits within SFHA 0 0 0 0
2022
Total Permits 8 2 7 108
Permits within SFHA 0 0 0 0
2023
Total Permits 2 0 5 75
Permits within SFHA 0 0 0 0
SFHA = Special Flood Hazard Area (1% flood event)
Table 3-13. Recent Major Development and Infrastructure from 2017 to Present Property or
Development
Name
Type of
Development
# of Units /
Structures
Location (address
and/or block and
lot)
Known Hazard
Zones*
Description / Status of
Development
6-Plex Multi-Family 6 650 D Street None Complete
8-Plex Multi-Family 8 545 C Street None Complete
* Only location-specific hazard zones or vulnerabilities identified.

Table 3-14. Known or Anticipated Major Development and Infrastructure in the Next Five Years Property or
Development
Name
Type of
Development
# of Units /
Structures
Location (address
and/or block and
lot)
Known Hazard
Zones*
Description / Status of
Development
Battery Point Multi-Family 162 1300 E Street None In Construction Harbor Point
Senior Housing
Multi-Family 27 655 H Street None In Construction
Work Force
Housing
Multi-Family 32 SW 3rd & F None Design
Roosevelt
Estates
DRAFT
Multi-Family 56 1405 California None In Construction

3. City of Crescent City
3-26 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

3.9 MITIGATION STRATEGY AND PRIORITIZATION
This section discusses the status of mitigation actions from the previous HMP, describes proposed hazard mitigation actions, and prioritizes actions to address over the next five years.

3.9.1 Past Mitigation Action Status
Table 3-15 indicates progress on the City’s mitigation strategy identified in the 2021 HMP. Actions that are still recommended but not completed or that are in progress are carried forward and combined with new actions as part of the mitigation strategy for this plan update. Previous actions that are now ongoing programs and capabilities are indicated as such and are presented in the capability assessment earlier in this annex.

Table 3-15. Status of Previous Mitigation Actions
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
CC-1 Where appropriate,
support retro-fitting,
purchase or relocation
of structures located in
high hazard areas,
prioritizing those
structures that have
experienced repetitive
losses and/or are
located in high or
medium ranked
hazard. This includes
critical facilities and
infrastructure such as,
City Hall, water supply
infrastructure, storm
drains, wastewater
infrastructure, and
clay sewer lines.

Planning 1) Police Department in
progress has completed
planning & is in design for
PS&E. Anticipated
construction of addition in
2025
2) City Hall is No Progress
3) Water Supply is in
progress with 100% PS&E
for Surge Tank to be
constructed 2025.
4) Storm Drain planning will
be completed in 2024.

Published SDMP report on
file.
5) WWTP is in progress for
update to include seismic
resilience & new water
regulations.
6) Clay sewer lines have
completed planning, have
90% PS&E for CIPP lining to
be completed over next 5
years.
1) Yes
2) No
3) Yes
4) Yes
5) Yes
6) Yes
1) Addition is primarily
for needed increase in
space and security.

Will meet new building
code for seismic
2) N/A
3) Loss of power
leads to pressure
spikes in water mains
and rupture. Surge
tank will absorb spikes
4) SDMP calculates
flood surge from all
watersheds. Report
will highlight
necessary
improvements
5) Enterococci &
tsunami are new
regulations requiring a
complete overhaul of
WWTP.
6) Inundation &
Infiltration have been
an ongoing burden to
the WWTP. Pipe lining
will reduce I&I and
meet recent civil
obligations
1) Seismic &
Tsunami
2) N/A
3) Loss of
electricity,
seismic, wildfire
4) Flooding &
excessive
rainfall
5) Tsunami
6) excessive
rainfall
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-27 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
CC-2 Integrate the hazard
mitigation plan into
other plans,
ordinances and
programs that dictate
land use decisions in
the community,
including the General
Plan and review of
projects within the
coastal zone
Planning Ongoing as part of
application review. City will
be updating Section 7 Health
and Safety of the General
Plan (Safety Element) in
2025 with general funds
Yes Safety Element
update is a State
requirement.

Seismic,
tsunami, fires,
flood, SLR
CC-3 Actively participate in
the plan maintenance
protocols outlined in
Volume 1 of this
hazard mitigation plan.

City of
Crescent City
Complete No - -
CC-4 Continue to maintain
good standing and
compliance under the
NFIP through
implementation of
floodplain
management
programs that, at a
minimum, meet the
NFIP requirements:

Enforce the flood
damage prevention
ordinance.

Participate in
floodplain
identification and
mapping updates.

Provide public
assistance/information
on floodplain
requirements and
impacts.

City of
Crescent City
Ongoing. City is up to date in
its Section 15.32 Floodplain
Damage Prevention
Ordinance and current FEMA
mapping. Flood information is
relayed to applicants during
application processing
Yes A minimal area of the
City is subject to
flooding most is zoned
Open Space or
Harbor-related. Will
consider appropriate
approaches in Safety
Element update that
address some of
NFIP’s Community
Rating System
program.

Flooding
CC-5 Identify and pursue
strategies to increase
adaptive capacity to
climate change
including but not
limited to conducting
an analysis of sea
level rise adaptation
strategies pursuant to
AB 619.

Planning State SLR Guidance
document See
https://opc.ca.gov/wpcontent/uploads/2024/05/Cali
fornia-Sea-Level-RiseGuidance-2024-508.pdf for
specific sea level scenarios
for Crescent City
Yes Adaptation strategies
need to be formalized.

Other hazards need to
be considered
including severe
weather, fire, flooding
Severe weather,
fire, flooding,
coastal hazards
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-28 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
CC-6 Retrofit wastewater
treatment plant
membrane bioreactor
to accept backup
generator for backup
power
Public Works Complete No - -
CC-7 Survey FEMA
designated A zone to
determine base flood
elevation Survey and
inventory lowest floor
elevations of all
existing structures
(both private and
public facilities) in A
and X zones, to
identify vulnerable
structures to target for
mitigation.

Public Works Not completed, low priority
for considering existing
development (See FEMA
mapping). Will consider more
appropriate approaches in
Safety Element update that
address some of NFIP’s
Community Rating System
program.

No - -
CC-8 Conduct coastal bluff
stabilization to prevent
shoreline retreat and
protect public
infrastructure.

Public Works In progress – loss of bluff
between 6th & 7th led to an
Emergency Opening
authorization. Temporary wall
constructed in 2025.

Permanent wall still in design
and permitting.

Yes No updates required Severe weather
CC-9 Upgrade and install
additional storm drain
lines to relieve
periodic flooding in
downtown Crescent
City.

Public Works In progress – Front Street, B,
C, D & F streets have been
upgraded. F Street from 3.5-
5th street to be constructed
2026. Front street Play to L
and K Street from Front to
2nd to be constructed in
2025/6.

Yes No updates required Severe weather
CC-10 Warehouse and/or
relocate critical
vehicles, equipment
and repair materials
outside of identified
hazard areas
Public Works In progress – most critical
equipment out of tsunami
zone at corp. yard. Police
equipment transferring to
mobile units in next 5 years.

Yes No updates required Seismic,
tsunami, fire,
flood, severe
weather
CC-11 Develop a post
disaster action plan
that includes grant
funding, debris
removal and long-term
recovery planning
components,
addressing both public
and private assets
Public Works Not started City will be
updating Section 7 Health
and Safety of the General
Plan (Safety Element) in
2025 with general funds
Yes Safety Element
update is a State
requirement.

Seismic,
tsunami, fires,
flood, SLR,
DRAFT
severe weather

3. City of Crescent City
3-29 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
CC-12 Establish a continuityof-operations plan with
phased return to
normal operations
Planning Not started. City will be
updating Section 7 Health
and Safety of the General
Plan (Safety Element) in
2025 with general funds
Yes Safety Element
update is a State
requirement.

Seismic,
tsunami, fires,
flood, SLR,
severe weather
CC-13 Identify existing
structures not up to
adopted IBC through
aggressive code
enforcement
Planning Completed No Covered in CC-15.

New police
administration building
to receive addition.

Other facilities not in
scope.

Seismic,
tsunami, fires,
flood, SLR,
severe weather
CC-14 Consider participation
in the NFIP’s
Community Rating
System program.

Planning Not started. City will be
updating Section 7 Health
and Safety of the General
Plan (Safety Element) in
2025 with general funds and
will review necessary
qualifications
Yes Safety Element
update is a State
requirement.

Flooding
CC-15 Conduct a
structural/nonstructura
l seismic retrofit of the
City Police
Department
City of
Crescent City
In progress – PS&E at 90%
plans. Construction
anticipated 2026
No Police building defined
to be “Administrative”
and therefore not
critical.

Tsunami,
seismic.

3.9.2 Changes in Priorities
Since the 2019 HMP, the City has re-evaluated their mitigation priorities. Action item 6, hooking up the MBR to the generator is complete. Several action item 8 bluff stabilization, 9 storm drain upgrades, and 15 City police department seismic retrofit are ongoing due to the long-term nature of the construction project. Planning items 1-5, 7, 11-14 are all ongoing activities to maintain procedures previously established. The city has updated the Housing Element to meet state regulated changes. This has been incorporated into the city ordinances and affects/changes planning decisions. The city’s General Plan, Shoreline Management Plan, & Local Coastal Plans all need an update. The city continues to seek Grant opportunities to fund continued planning, design, and construction activities. Implementation of future priorities will likely be driven by available funding.

3.9.3 Additional Mitigation Efforts
In addition to the mitigation actions completed in Table 3-15, Crescent City identified the following mitigation efforts completed since the last HMP:
• The city has replaced and increased the capacity of the storm drainage system on Front Street, C, D and F streets to reduce localized flooding.
• The city repaired the Amador tank roof leaks, installed AWWA/OSHA compliant safety features for tank maintenance, and coated/painted the tank for longer life.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-30 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• The city has installed a SCADA water/sewer monitoring system to warn city crew of operation of either system outside of normal parameters.
• The city upgraded the WWTP MBR filters with a mem-pulse filtration system to extend the life, improve capacity, and efficiency. This project helps the city meet water regulations. • The city has implemented MyGov permit and planning tracking to ensure municipal code and planning requirements are met.
• The city has installed a Genset connection to power the WWTP MBR MCC with the available generator in the event of a power outage
• The city has installed a new generator at the police station and another at the Wonder Stump Road PRV station.
• The city has replaced all three pumps at the Ranney Collector ensuring extended life and higher efficiency for the city’s sole source of water.
• The city has adopted an updated Housing Element to coincide with state changes. This impacts municipal code and planning.
• The city has uploaded water, sewer, storm drain, streetlight, sidewalk infrastructure into a cloudbased GIS mapping software. This makes data available on the public works mobile devices which can be updated on site as necessary. This ensures the most reliable data in the event of a natural disaster.
• The city developed a Water System Emergency Response Plan • All sewer lines and manholes were cleaned and camera inspected for damage. Repairs are ongoing to maintain continuous utility service.
• The WWTP received an upgraded chlorine monitoring station to improve city outfall water regulations to maintain continuous utility service.
• The WWTP overhauled the belt press dewatering equipment to maintain continuous utility service
• The WWTP replaced 4 chemical containment tanks for Sodium Hypochlorite and Citric Acid to maintain continuous utility service.
• The city installed a temporary retaining wall at Pebble Beach (Phase 1) between 7th and 8th streets returning the collector street to service and added a class IV pedestrian/bicycle trail.

Phase 2 is a future project to protect Pebble Beach between 9th street and Preston Island known as Pocket Beach.

3.9.4 Hazards Not Included in District Mitigation Strategy The City of Crescent City did not include actions for extreme heat. Proximity to the ocean and longstanding weather patterns means that the city maintains a relatively cool temperature throughout the year.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-31 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

3.9.5 Proposed Hazard Mitigation Actions for the HMP Update Crescent City participated in the mitigation strategy workshop for this HMP to identify appropriate actions to include in a local hazard mitigation strategy. Its comprehensive consideration of all possible activities to address hazards of concern included review of the following FEMA documents:
• FEMA 551 “Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures” (March 2007) • FEMA “Mitigation Ideas—A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards” (January 2013) The action worksheets included at the end of this annex list the mitigation actions that Crescent City would like to pursue in the future to reduce the effects of hazards. The actions are dependent upon available funding (grants and local match availability) and may be modified or omitted at any time based on the occurrence of new hazard events and changes in City priorities.

Table 3-16 indicates the range of proposed mitigation action categories. The four FEMA mitigation action categories are listed in the table to further demonstrate the wide range of activities and mitigation measures selected.

Table 3-16. Analysis of Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Category Actions That Address the Hazard, by Action Category
Hazard LPR SIP NSP EAP
Drought - CC-1, CC-7, - -
Earthquake - CC-1, CC-2, CC-3, CC-4, CC-5, CC-6, CC-7, CC-8, CC-9 - - Excessive Rain CC-10 CC-2, CC-7, CC-9 - -
Extreme Wind - CC-2, CC-7, CC-8, CC-9 - -
Flood CC-10 CC-2, CC-4, CC-5, CC-6, CC-7, CC-9 - -
Landslide - CC-2, CC-7, CC-8, CC-9 - -
Tsunami CC-10 CC-1, CC-2, CC-4, CC-5, CC-6, CC-7, CC-8, CC-9, CC-10 - - Wildfire - CC-2, CC-3, CC-9 - -
Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)—These actions include government authorities, policies or codes that influence the way land and buildings are being developed and built.

Natural Systems Protection (NSP)—These are actions that minimize damage and losses and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems.

Education and Awareness Programs (EAP)—These are actions to inform and educate citizens, elected officials, and property owners about hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. These actions may also include participation in national programs, such as StormReady and Firewise Communities
Volume 1 identifies four evaluation criteria for prioritizing the mitigation actions. To assist with rating each mitigation action as high, medium, or low priority, a numeric rank is assigned for each of the evaluation criteria. Table 3-17 provides a summary of the prioritization of all proposed mitigation actions for the HMP update.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-32 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 3-17. Summary of Prioritization of Actions
Project Name Cost Benefit Objectives Time Frame Score Priority Seismic Retrofit High High 3 1-5 years 6.2 Medium
Generator Installation High High 6 1-5 years 6.5 Medium Seismic Retrofit - Water Main High High 4 1-10 years 5.3 Medium Ordinance Improvement High Medium 4 1-5 years 5.3 Medium Purchase Mobile Equipment High Medium 5 1-5 years 5.4 Medium Relocation of WWTP High Low 4 1-10 years 3.3 Low
Well Retrofitting Medium Medium 4 1-5 years 6.3 Medium
Installation of Hydro-Pneumatic Tank Medium Medium 5 1-5 years 6.4 Medium Purchase of Portable Water Equipment Medium Medium 4 1-5 years 6.3 Medium Storm Drain Capacity Assessment Low Low 3 1-5 years 6.2 Medium Note: Volume 1 of the HMP provides guidance on prioritizing mitigation actions. Low (0-5), Medium (5-7), High (7-9).

3.9.6 Mitigation Strategy
The following pages list the specific plan for each mitigation action, including the agency responsible for implementation, potential funding sources, and expected timeframe for completion.

DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-33 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-1 Seismic Retrofitting
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazards of Concern: Drought, Earthquake, Tsunami
Description of the Problem: In the event of an earthquake or Tsunami, the 1.5MG water tank can shift on its present foundation damaging itself, pump house, and/or piping infrastructure.

Description of the Solution: Foundation retrofit with seismic restraints, American Water Works Association OSHA upgrades, cathodic protection, rafter rehabilitation, and flexible expansion joint for Amador Tank
Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,4,6
Benefits: High, available water in event of loss of primary source, available fire flow capacity
Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the city infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: No planned capacity change for the water tank maintains current trajectory for future development.

Impact on Critical Facilities/Lifelines: The water tank is a critical water infrastructure facility which will directly have improved resilience to earthquake and tsunami.

Impact on Capabilities: This project will improve the resilience of the Amador water tank reducing or preventing damage due to earthquake or tsunami.

Climate Change Considerations: This project does not respond to nor contribute to climate change risks.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-34 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-2 Generator Installation
Lead Agency: County of Del Norte
Supporting Agencies: City of Crescent City
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Excessive Rain, Extreme Wind, Flood, Landslide, Tsunami, Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Loss of command and/or loss of continuous utility service.

Description of the Solution: Install a backup generator at the following City locations:

City Hall, Housing Authority, Cronk Lift Station, Harbor Lift Station, Harbor Sea Food Lift Station, Infirmary Lift Station, and Tetrapod Lift Station. Additionally, review the Ranney collector generator and replace the chlorination plant generator which is at end of life.

Install a backup generator at the following DN County locations:

Madison Lift Station, Modoc Lift Station, Oregon Lift Station, Pacific Lift Station, Seawood Lift Station, Small Lift Station, and Tedsen Lift Station.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: State Water Resources Control Board Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6,9,10
Benefits: High, maintain command structure and housing during a natural disaster.

Maintain sewer utility service.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the community’s infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: No planned capacity change for the sewer infrastructure, maintains current trajectory for future development.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Improves communication and health through proper handling of sewer materials during a natural disaster.

Impact on Capabilities: Support the city’s ability to respond to and recover from disasters.

Climate Change Considerations: This project enables the city to maintain communications and operations during excessive weather, flood, landslide, and/or wildfire events. The consumption of petroleum products for the generation of electricity will contribute to greenhouse gases only while used during a natural disaster event.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Public Information, Emergency Services
Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-35 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-3 Seismic Retrofit – Water Main
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Water main from 6280 Kings Valley Road to the elevated tank at Wonder Stump Road is 1.5 miles of a 14-inch cast iron pipe which is aged, brittle, and susceptible to damage from internal pressure spikes and external impact loads. There is no alternate flow path for redundancy between these two sites which constitutes the sole conveyance of water to the city. Additionally, the small diameter pipe causes a flow restriction which increases pumping energy and limits fire flow.

Description of the Solution: Install a 1.5 mile redundant water main from chlorination building to elevated tank preferably along a separate route for redundancy, resilience, and energy savings.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Implementation Timeline: 1-10 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,6,10
Benefits: Provide water through redundant water main in the event of catastrophic loss of sole water conveyance from the chlorination building to the city.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the city’s water infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: While the city is not currently growth limited by the restricted water flow through the existing 14-in cast iron water main, this is a potential future limiting factor for the city’s growth.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

There is a direct impact on the critical supply of water to the city.

Impact on Capabilities: A redundant water main will mitigate the city’s risk of complete water loss in the event of a natural disaster which disrupts the city’s water supply.

Climate Change Considerations: This project does not respond to nor contribute to climate change risks.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-36 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-4 Ordinance Improvement
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Flood, Tsunami
Description of the Problem: Wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) fails to meet new state water regulations Description of the Solution: Working under a Time Schedule Order R1-2025-0015 the city is working to improve secondary treatment efficiency and remove additional solids in an effort to improve the disinfection process and meet the new permitting requirements.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: State Water Resources Control Board Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,4,6,8
Benefits: The city presently does not meet state water regulations. This project attempts to bring the city’s wastewater back into regulation on a permanent basis.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the city’s water infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: This project does not change the capacity of the city to process sewage only the quality of the water discharges in the outfall.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This project directly affects the health of local residents and manages the hazardous sewage with the least time out of water regulations.

Impact on Capabilities: This project mitigates the damage caused by insufficiently disinfected water discharges directly into the Pacific Ocean.

Climate Change Considerations: This project does not respond to climate change risks. Insufficient disinfection of discharged water does not contribute to climate change but is an ecological disaster in its own right.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Natural Resources Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-37 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-5 Purchase Mobile Equipment
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Flood, Tsunami
Description of the Problem: Loss of wastewater treatment plant due to natural disaster Description of the Solution: Develop multiple “mobile” WWTPs to process raw sewage at 1 MGD temporarily until a permanent WWTP can be repaired or relocated. Purchase of mobile generators, mobile headworks screens and pumps, mobile dewatering presses, mobile MBR filtration, Class C solids retention, hauling, disposal, and equipment to reactivate the current chlorine/de-chlorine contact tank. Mobile components would be stored in a secure location out of the tsunami inundation zone.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: State Water Resources Control Board Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6,8
Benefits: While it is understood that immediately following a natural disaster, the city will violate outfall water regulations. This project attempts to bring the city’s wastewater back into regulation on a temporary basis until a permanent repair or relocate solution can be accomplished.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the city’s water infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: This project does not change the capability or capacity of the city to process sewage. There is no cease/desist order preventing future development.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This project directly affects the health of local residents and manages the hazardous sewage with the least time out of water regulations.

Impact on Capabilities: This project mitigates the damage caused by loss of raw sewage containment directly into the Pacific ocean.

Climate Change Considerations: This project does not respond to climate change risks. Loss of raw sewage containment does not contribute to climate change but is an ecological disaster in its own right.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Natural Resource Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-38 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-6 Relocation of WWTP
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Flood, Tsunami
Description of the Problem: Relocation of WWTP due to natural disaster or regulation change Description of the Solution: Purchase land outside of the tsunami zone for the future relocation of the WWTP.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: N/A
Implementation Timeline: 1-10 years
Objectives Met: 1,3,7,8
Benefits: Purchase of a future building site for the city WWTP will initiate the permitting process and shorten the PS&E phase in the event of a natural disaster.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the city’s water infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: This project does not change the capability or capacity of the city to process sewage. There is no cease/desist order preventing future development.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This project directly affects the health of local residents and manages the hazardous sewage with the least time out of water regulations.

Impact on Capabilities: This project moves the WWTP away from the tsunami zone and outside of the coastal zone which will reduce the permitting time and cost of construction. It provides an opportunity for technology upgrades which are not presently possible at the current location.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection, Natural Resource Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-39 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-7 Well Retrofitting
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazard(s) of Concern: Drought, Earthquake, Excessive Rain, Extreme Wind, Flood, Landslide, Tsunami
Description of the Problem: The city’s sole source of water is the Ranney Collector located at the Smith River. Loss of this source due to contamination, flooding, mechanical or structural failure would leave the city with 3 days of water in accumulation tanks.

Description of the Solution: Install a redundant water well preferably from a different aquifer and possibly construct a second chlorination building if required. Tie second well into existing water infrastructure.

Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: North Coast Resource Partnership Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6
Benefits: Diversification of water reduces risk from loss of potable water.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the city’s water infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: The city is limited by water diversion rights from our present water source; this project does increase the potential capacity of the city’s water system.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This project increases quantity, quality, and resilience of the city’s water infrastructure.

Impact on Capabilities: This project mitigates the risk of water loss in the event of a natural disaster.

Climate Change Considerations: This project does not respond to nor contribute to climate change risk.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-40 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-8 Installation of Hydro-Pneumatic Tank
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Extreme Wind, Landslide, Tsunami Description of the Problem: A rapid change in pressure in the water main due to power loss or rapid valve operation can cause a pressure spike (water hammer) to damage the brittle cast iron water mains leading to catastrophic pipe rupture and loss of the city’s sole source of water.

Description of the Solution: Installation of a hydro-pneumatic accumulation (surge) tank near the Ranney Collector pumps will absorb the pressure spikes and keep them from propagating down the water main to the nearest “weak link”.

Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: Bureau of Reclamation via Elk Valley Rancheria & City Funds Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6,8
Benefits: Isolation and absorption of pressure spikes makes the entire water system more resilient to unexpected changes in water pressure.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

The Elk Valley Rancheria has worked directly with the Bureau of Reclamation to secure partial funding for this project to directly benefit tribal members within the city water distribution system.

Impact on Future Development: This project does not increase the capacity of the city water system, which is not currently a limiting factor in the city’s future development.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This project improves water system resilience.

Impact on Capabilities: This project protects the city water system against pressure spikes which could cause catastrophic water main breaks.

Climate Change Considerations: This project does not contribute to climate change risks. The project does respond to extreme weather and wildfire risks which might be caused by climate change.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Property Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-41 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-9 Purchase of Portable Water Equipment
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: N/A
Hazard(s) of Concern: Earthquake, Excessive Rain, Extreme Wind, Flood, Landslide, Tsunami, Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Loss of sole source of potable water for city. Remote location prevents importation of bottled water.

Description of the Solution: Purchase of a portable water filtration, chlorination, and distribution equipment Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,3,4,6
Benefits: Available water during and after a natural disaster.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This solution improves the resilience of the city’s water infrastructure which benefits everyone including all socially vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: This project does not increase the city’s water capacity. No impact on future development.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This project does improve health and water which are critical lifelines.

Impact on Capabilities: This project enables the city to mitigate, respond tom and recover from disasters due to the loss of water.

Climate Change Considerations: This project does not respond to nor contribute to climate change risks.

Mitigation Category Structure and Infrastructure Project CRS Category Preventative Measures, Natural Resource Protection Priority High
DRAFT

3. City of Crescent City
3-42 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CC-10 Storm Drain Capacity Assessment
Lead Agency: City of Crescent City
Supporting Agencies: County of Del Norte
Hazard(s) of Concern: Excessive Rain, Flood, Tsunami
Description of the Problem: The city’s storm drain system consists of aged infrastructure with potential capacity restrictions resulting in system flooding.

Description of the Solution: The city will conduct a storm drain capacity study to determine bottlenecks in the system due to known water shed inputs as well as system condition including opportunities increase overall water quality through infrastructure improvements.

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Community Development Block Grant, City funds Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 8,9,10
Benefits: The city will develop a report with specific projects to seek funding for flood risk reduction future projects.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

Low lying and flood prone locations in town could be inhabited by children, elderly, poverty, language, disabled, or tribal groups.

Impact on Future Development: Areas susceptible to flooding often coincide with undeveloped areas of the city.

Improved drainage should make these locations available for future development.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Public safety, preservation of real estate, and transportation to be improved with proper storm drainage.

Impact on Capabilities: The planning report will be the first action taken towards preventing future localized flooding.

Climate Change Considerations: The project will generate a report which calculates storm drainage considering climate change effects such as extreme weather and flooding. This project does not contribute to climate change risks.

Mitigation Category Local Plans and Regulations
CRS Category Preventative Measures
Priority High
DRAFT

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-1 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

4. BIG ROCK COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT
This jurisdictional annex to the Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) provides information to assist public and private sectors in the Big Rock Community Services District with reducing losses from future hazard events. This annex is not guidance of what to do when a disaster occurs; its focus is on actions that can be implemented prior to a disaster to reduce or eliminate damage to property and people. The annex presents a general overview of Big Rock Community Services District, describes who participated in the planning process, assesses Big Rock Community Services District’s risk, vulnerability, and capabilities, and outlines a strategy for achieving a more resilient community.

4.1 HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING TEAM
The Big Rock Community Services District identified primary and alternate HMP points of contact and developed this plan over the course of several months. Joe Akin represented the community on the Del Norte County HMP Planning Partnership and Steering Committee and supported the local planning process by securing input from persons with specific knowledge to enhance the plan. All departments were asked to contribute to the annex development through reviewing and contributing to the capability assessment, reporting on the status of previously identified actions, and participating in action identification and prioritization.

Table 4-1 summarizes District officials who participated in the development of the annex and in what capacity. Additional documentation of the District’s planning activities through Planning Partnership meetings is included in Volume 1.

Table 4-1. Hazard Mitigation Planning Team
Primary Point of Contact Alternate Point of Contact
Name/Title: Joe “Hank” Akin, Big Rock CSD Board
President
Address: PO Box 453, Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone Number: (707) 457-3380
Email:

Name/Title: Andy Allen, Manager
Address: PO Box 453, Crescent City, CA 95531
Phone Number: (707) 954-5509
Email: [email protected]
Additional Contributors
Name/Title: Renna Nelson, Secretary
Method of Participation: Contributed information, reviewed draft sections of the plan.

4.2 COMMUNITY PROFILE
The Big Rock Community Service District (BRCSD) was formed as a California special district by Resolution of the Del Norte County Board of Supervisors on September 6, 1966, in accordance with California’s Special District Act. The district was formed for the following purposes:
• To supply the inhabitants of the District with water for domestic use, irrigation, sanitation, industrial use, fire protection, and recreation.

DRAFT

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4-2 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• The collection, treatment or disposal of sewage, waste and storm water of the District and its inhabitants.
• The collection or disposal of garbage or refuse matter. • Protection against fire.
• Public recreation by means of parks, playgrounds, swimming pools or recreational buildings. • Street lighting.
• Mosquito abatement.
• The equipment and maintenance of a police department or other police protection to protect and safeguard life and property.

The BRCSD is governed by a five-member elected Board of Directors/Trustees, which assumes responsibility for the adoption of this plan and will oversee its implementation. The BRCSD provides water service to the unincorporated community of Hiouchi, which is situated within the Six Rivers National Forest and the Smith River National Recreation Area and serves the Redwood National Park Hiouchi Visitor Center on Highway 199.

4.2.1 Service Area and Trends
The BRCSD covers approximately 520 acres with the annexation of the Hiouchi Flat area of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and the boundary correlation for Redwood National Park Hiouchi Information/Visitor Center. The District is surrounded on three sides by the Smith River. The service area, or sphere of influence, is coterminous with the District Boundary.

The BRCSD generally contains rural residential and commercial development, and resource lands including the Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park Campground and the Redwood National Park Hiouchi Visitor Center. The Del Norte County General Plan (2003) and Zoning Code guides land use decisions within the unincorporated portion of Del Norte County including the community of Hiouchi.

The District also contains State/Federal park lands.

The BRCSD contains approximately 197 homes and businesses within district boundaries and provides drinkable water to approximately 100 connections and accounts. Other consumers draw water from private wells or use surface water for irrigation. The winter population of the district is approximately 650, while tourism and recreational uses of the public lands can elevate the BRCSD summer population upwards of 2,000.

The District provides adequate services and has the capacity to provide the necessary water services to its customers. The Big Rock CSD is pursuing water system upgrades, including water tank replacements in order to meet long-term service needs within the District. The District has sufficient water treatment capacity available and does not appear, in the current timeframe or in the foreseeable future, to be in short water supply. The District has no plans to significantly increase capacity.

DRAFT

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The District provides water service to the community of Hiouchi; a resort community where water demand varies dramatically with the seasons. The Hiouchi Flat area of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and the Redwood National Park’s Hiouchi Visitor Center are located within the District.

The bulk of Del Norte County’s population exists in unincorporated communities that qualify as disadvantaged including the community of Hiouchi. Big Rock CSD provides one of the three basic services - water service – to areas that are considered disadvantaged. There are no sewer services within District boundaries, residents rely on private septic systems. Structural fire protection services are the responsibility of the Smith River Fire Protection District.

4.3 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to the public that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. Del Norte County is sparsely populated with the majority of government and private services available in Crescent City, including grocery stores, hardware stores, and restaurants. The County posted information about the HMP update on the County Facebook page and on the OES website. Flyers advertising the HMP update were canvassed across Crescent City. The public was invited to participate in the planning process by responding to the public survey, attending a virtual Steering Committee meeting, attending an in-person meeting, and reviewing the draft plan.

In addition to that work, the District partnered with the County to post information about the HMP update in the few public services available in Hiouchi, including the Hiouchi Hamlet, one of two retail locations in the area. Figure 4-1 shows selected outreach efforts and Appendix A includes all outreach efforts.

Figure 4-1. Public Outreach by Big Rock Community Services District DRAFT

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4.3.1 Public Feedback Integration
Of the 196 responses to the public survey, four respondents reported that they received services from the District. These four respondents were extremely or very concerned about excessive rain, extreme wind, and landslides. They reported receiving emergency information through mass notifications, government websites and newsletters, public meetings, and Facebook. They expressed concern about natural hazards closing US Highways 199 and 197, underfunding of public services, and the Madrone Trailer Park residents being at high risk. The mitigation strategy was prioritized with these concerns and community limitations in mind.

4.4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to stakeholders that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. In addition to that work, the District invited stakeholders to participate in the planning process. The following organizations were invited to participate by attending a Steering Committee meeting, responding to the stakeholder survey, contributing information and expertise to the plan, and reviewing the draft plan:

4.4.1 Local and Regional Agencies Involved in Hazard Mitigation Activities • Del Norte Local Agency Formation Commission
• California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services
• State Water Resources Control Board
• USDA Rural Development

4.4.2 Agencies that Have the Authority to Regulate Development • Del Norte County Planning Division

4.4.3 Neighboring Communities
• Gasquet Community Services District
• HRC Community Services District
• Klamath Community Services District
• Smith River Community Services District

4.4.4 Representatives of Business, Academia, and Other Private Organizations
• Del Norte Unified School District
• Pacific Power
• Sutter Coast Hospital
DRAFT

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4.4.5 Nonprofit Organizations and Community-Based Organizations • Hiouchi Community Fellowship Church
• Neighbors Helping Neighbors

4.5 JURISDICTIONAL CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT AND INTEGRATION Big Rock Community Services District performed an inventory and analysis of existing capabilities, plans, programs, and policies that enhance its ability to implement mitigation strategies. Volume 1 describes the components included in the capability assessment and their significance for hazard mitigation planning. The jurisdictional assessment for this annex includes analyses of the following:
• Planning and regulatory capabilities
• Administrative and technical capabilities
• Fiscal capabilities
• Education and outreach capabilities
• Adaptive capacity to withstand hazard events
For a community to succeed in reducing long-term risk, hazard mitigation must be integrated into dayto-day local government operations. As part of the hazard mitigation analysis, planning and /policy documents were reviewed, and each jurisdiction was surveyed to obtain a better understanding of their progress toward plan integration. Development of an updated mitigation strategy provided an opportunity for Big Rock Community Service District to identify opportunities for integrating mitigation concepts into ongoing District procedures.

4.5.1 Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration As a special district in Del Norte County, the District follow County ordinances, codes, and regulations.

Table 4-2 summarizes the planning and regulatory tools specific to Big Rock CSD.

4.5.2 Building Codes, Land Use, and Development
Big Rock Community Services District is a special district located in unincorporated Del Norte County.

The District is subject to the Del Norte County and State of California building codes and land use regulations. The District does not permit or regulate development. Development permits within the District’s jurisdiction are issued through Del Norte County. Therefore, building code, land use, and development capabilities are not applicable to the District.

4.5.3 Administrative and Technical Capability
Table 4-3 summarizes potential staff and personnel resources available to Big Rock Community Services District and their current responsibilities that contribute to hazard mitigation.

DRAFT

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Table 4-2. Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Jurisdiction
has this?
Citation and Date (code chapter
or name of plan, date of
enactment or plan adoption)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible Person,
Department or
Agency
Codes, Ordinances, & Regulations
Code/Ordinance/
Resolution
Yes Enabling Legislation: September
6, 1966; Community Service
District Law, CA Government Code
61000
County Del Norte County
Board of Supervisors
Resolution allows special district to be formed to supply potable water to district residents and street lighting services.

Planning Documents
Municipal Service Review Yes Big Rock Community
Services District Municipal
Service Review and Sphere
of Influence Update,
November 2015
District Big Rock Community
Services District
This Municipal Service Review and Sphere of Influence Update provides information about the services and boundaries of the Big Rock Community Services District. The report is for use by the Del Norte Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) in conducting a statutorily required review and update process. This report provides LAFCo with a tool to study current and future public service conditions comprehensively and to evaluate organizational options for accommodating growth, preventing urban sprawl, and ensuring that critical services are provided efficiently.

The report references the HMP when discussing the District’s infrastructure at risk of seismic activity.

Table 4-3. Administrative and Technical Capabilities
Resources Available? Comment

ADMINISTRATIVE CAPABILITY
Maintenance programs to reduce risk (stormwater maintenance, tree trimming, etc.) No N/A Mutual aid agreements No N/A
Human Resources Manual - Do any job descriptions specifically include identifying or implementing mitigation projects or other efforts to reduce natural hazard risk? No N/A

TECHNICAL/STAFFING CAPABILITY
Planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
No N/A
Engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
No N/A
Planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards No N/A Staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis No N/A Professionals trained in conducting damage assessments No N/A Personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or Hazus applications No N/A Staff that work with socially vulnerable populations or underserved communities No N/A Environmental scientists familiar with natural hazards No N/A Surveyors No N/A
Emergency manager No N/A
Grant writers No N/A
Resilience Officer No N/A
Other (this could include stormwater engineer, environmental specialist, etc.) DRAFT
No N/A

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4.5.4 Fiscal Capability
Table 4-4 summarizes financial resources available to Big Rock Community Services District.

Table 4-4. Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resources Accessible or Eligible to Use?
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG, CDBG-DR) No
Capital improvement project funding Eligible
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes No
User fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric service Yes Impact fees for homebuyers or developers of new development/homes Yes Stormwater utility fee No
Incur debt through general obligation bonds No
Incur debt through special tax bonds No
Incur debt through private activity bonds No
Withhold public expenditures in hazard-prone areas No
Other federal or state funding programs Eligible
Open Space Acquisition funding programs No
Clean Water Act 319 Grants [Nonpoint Source Pollution] Eligible

4.5.5 Education and Outreach Capability
Table 4-5 summarizes the education and outreach resources available to Big Rock Community Services District.

Table 4-5. Education and Outreach Capabilities
Outreach Resources Available? Comment
Public information officer or communications office No N/A Personnel skilled or trained in website development No N/A Hazard mitigation information available on your website No N/A Social media for hazard mitigation education and
outreach
Yes Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Citizen boards or commissions that address issues
related to hazard mitigation
Yes Neighbors Helping Neighbors /
BRCSD
Warning systems for hazard events No N/A
Natural disaster/safety programs in place for schools No N/A Organizations that conduct outreach to socially
vulnerable populations and underserved populations
No N/A
Public outreach mechanisms / programs to inform
citizens on natural hazards, risk, and ways to protect
themselves during such events
Yes Neighbors Helping Neighbors,
completely voluntary operation to
bring attention to self-rescue,
DRAFT
preparedness, and planning.

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4.5.6 Adaptive Capacity
Adaptive capacity is defined as “the ability of systems, institutions, humans and other organisms to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or respond to consequences” (IPCC 2022). Each jurisdiction has a unique combination of capabilities to adjust to, protect from, and withstand a future hazard event, future conditions, and changing risk. Table 4-6 summarizes the adaptive capacity for each identified hazard of concern and the District’s capability to address related actions using the following classifications:
• Strong adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction has effective response capabilities, plans or policies that exceed minimum requirements, and deployable resources, all of which decrease vulnerability.
• Moderate adaptive capacity means minimum requirements are in place; moderate capabilities; mitigation measures are identified but not implemented widespread; jurisdiction can recover but needs outside resources.
• Weak adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does not have the capability to effectively respond, which leads to an increase in vulnerability. Examples include weak/outdated/inconsistent plans, policies, codes/ordinances in place; no redundancies; limited to no deployable resources; limited capabilities to respond; long recovery.

Table 4-6. Adaptive Capacity
Hazard Adaptive Capacity
Drought Weak
Extreme Heat Moderate
Extreme Wind Moderate
Excessive Rain Strong
Earthquake Weak
Flood Moderate
Landslide Moderate
Tsunami Strong
Wildfire Weak

4.6 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM COMPLIANCE
Big Rock Community Services District is a special district for unincorporated Del Norte County. The District does not participate in the NFIP directly. Structures in the District were included in the Del Norte County assessment of NFIP repetitive loss structures. This information can be found in Section 2.6.

4.7 JURISDICTIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 provide detailed information regarding vulnerability to the identified hazards, including summaries of Big Rock Community Services District’s risk assessment results and data used to determine the hazard ranking.

DRAFT
Key local risk assessment information is presented below.

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4.7.1 Hazard Area
Hazard area maps provided below illustrate the probable hazard areas impacted within the District are shown in Figure 4-2 and Figure 4-3. These maps are based on the best available data at the time of the preparation of this plan and are adequate for planning purposes. Maps are provided only for hazards that can be identified clearly using mapping techniques and technologies and for which Big Rock Community Services District has significant exposure.

4.7.2 Hazard Event History
The history of natural and non-natural hazard events in Del Norte County is detailed in Volume 1, where each hazard profile includes a chronology of historical events that have affected the County and its municipalities. Table 4-7 provides details on loss and damage in Big Rock Community Services District during hazard events since the last hazard mitigation plan update.

4.7.3 Hazard Ranking
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 have detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. The following presents key risk assessment results for Big Rock Community Services District.

The participating jurisdictions have differing degrees of vulnerability to the hazards of concern, so each jurisdiction ranked its own degree of risk to each hazard. The community-specific hazard ranking is based on problems and impacts identified by the risk assessment presented in Volume 1. The ranking process involves an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence for each hazard; the potential impacts of the hazard on people, property, and the economy; community capabilities to address the hazard; and changing future climate conditions. Big Rock Community Services District reviewed the County hazard ranking and individual results to assess the relative risk of the hazards of concern to the community.

Table 4-8 shows Big Rock Community Services District’s final hazard rankings for identified hazards of concern. Mitigation action development uses the ranking to target hazards with the highest risk.

DRAFT

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Figure 4-2. Big Rock Community Services District Flood, Tsunami, and NEHRP Soil Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

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Figure 4-3. Big Rock Community Services District Wildfire and Landslide Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

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Table 4-7. Hazard Event History in Big Rock Community Services District Dates of
Event
Event Type
(Disaster
Declaration)
County
Designated? Summary of Event
Summary of Damage
and Losses in Big Rock
Community Services
District
February 24
to March 1,
2019
Severe Storm
DR-4434-CA
Yes, Federal An atmospheric river spread across northern California and produced heavy rain that led
to localized flooding. Impacts included
flooding on Highway 199 along the west
shoulder and northbound lane.

None
January 20,
2020 to May
11, 2023
Pandemic
(COVID-19)
DR-4482-CA
EM-3428-CA
Yes, Federal The first confirmed case in California was reported on January 25, 2020. Del Norte
County experienced surges in COVID-19
cases in December 2020, August to
September 2021, January to February 2022,
and July 2022. Overall, Del Norte reported
8,005 confirmed cases and 62 fatalities
between 2020 and 2023.

None
September 4
to November
17, 2020
Wildfire
DR-4569-CA
CA20-3
Yes, State and
Federal
Record-breaking hot temperatures
exacerbated existing fire conditions, leading
to drier conditions and allowing wind to
facilitate the rapid spread of new fires. One
complex, the Slater Fire, spread into Del
Norte County and caused damage to
roadways.

None
December 27,
2022 to
January 31,
2023
Flood
DR-4683-CA
CA23-1
Yes, State and
Federal
Atmospheric river led to multiple heavy
rainstorms and strong winds in late
December and January. Strong wind caused
multiple trees to fall, leading to blockages on
Highways 101, 197, and 199, and Parkway
Drive. Downed power lines caused multiple
fires. Over 10,000 customers without power
in and around Crescent City due to strong
winds.

None
February 21
to July 10,
2023
Severe Storm,
Flood
DR-4699-CA
EM-3592-CA
CA23-3
Yes, State and
Federal
Severe storms and high winds led to
mudslides and landslides. Downed trees
blocked portions of Highway 199.

None
August 15,
2023
Wildfire CA23-5 Yes, State Dry thunderstorms produced lightning strikes across the Six Rivers National Forest. 27
fires developed in the Gasquet Ranger
District and grew rapidly, jumping Highway
199 causing a 3-week closure and resulting
in the evacuation of the Town of Gasquet.

The fire destroyed high-tension powerlines
powering all of Del Norte County. The County
was without power through August 25 when
generators were installed. Main transmission
lines were not repaired until September 10.

The fire burned into October with a total of
95,000 acres burned plus 2 residences and 3
minor structures destroyed.

Power was out for entire
County for one week.

Neighboring Gasquet was
evacuated and Hiouchi is
the nearest town. Road to
Gasquet was closed.

There was no evacuation
in Hiouchi, but residents
were advised to prepare
for an evacuation.

EM = FEMA Emergency Declaration
DRAFT
; DR = FEMA Major Disaster Declaration

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Table 4-8. Hazard Ranking
Hazard Rank
Drought Low
Extreme Heat Medium
Extreme Wind High
Excessive Rain High
Earthquake Medium
Flood Low
Landslide High
Tsunami Low
Wildfire Low
Note: The scale is based on the hazard rankings established in Volume 1, modified as appropriate based on review by the jurisdiction

4.7.4 Identified Issues
After review of Big Rock Community Services District’s hazard event history, hazard rankings, hazard location, and current capabilities, Big Rock Community Services District identified the following vulnerabilities within the community:
• Flood
• The unincorporated town of Hiouchi was built along the banks of the Smith River and many homes are located in the one percent annual chance floodplain. • The District collects water from the Smith River. In the event of a major flood, water infrastructure could be damaged or inaccessible.
• Landslide
• Most of the District is located on NEHRP soil class D and located in the landslide hazard area.
• Rain is one of the hazards cited by residents as most concerning. Excessive rain can contribute to landslide risk.
• Hiouchi is adjacent to the Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park and the town is covered in redwood trees. A landslide in this area has the potential to bring down trees that are hundreds of feet tall.
• Wildfire
• Most of the District is located in a wildfire severity zone.

Mitigation actions addressing these issues were prioritized for consideration in the action plan presented in the following section
DRAFT .

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4.8 CONDITIONS THAT MAY IMPACT RISK

4.8.1 Population Pattern Trends
The Big Rock CSD has a permanent resident population of approximately 650. The District will likely continue to develop at or less than the current county-wide rates of 0.4 percent per year, putting the District population at approximately 690 in 2030. Some District residents currently draw potable water from private wells or use surface water for irrigation.

The District’s water system has sufficient capacity to serve the Hiouchi Flat area of the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and is currently serving the Redwood National Park’s Hiouchi Visitor Center. The Big Rock CSD is pursuing water system upgrades, including water tank replacements in order to meet long-term service needs within the District. The District currently provides adequate water service to its existing connections. Aside from facilitating the Redwood National Park’s redevelopment plan with an offer to supply drinking water, municipal water system growth potential in Hiouchi might be limited to modernization and improved reliability, rather than geographic expansion. The Township of Hiouchi is bounded on all sides by parks, a Conservations Easement, and the Smith River.

4.8.2 Changes in Land Use and Development
Big Rock CSD generally contains rural residential and limited commercial development, and resource lands including the Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park Campground and the Redwood National Park Hiouchi Visitor Center. The Del Norte County General Plan (2003) and Zoning Code guides land use decisions within the unincorporated portion of Del Norte County including the community of Hiouchi.

Little change in actual or designated land uses within the District is anticipated over the next 20 years.

4.9 MITIGATION STRATEGY AND PRIORITIZATION
This section discusses the status of mitigation actions from the previous HMP, describes proposed hazard mitigation actions, and prioritizes actions to address over the next five years.

4.9.1 Past Mitigation Action Status
The District did not participate in the 2019 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan and does not have mitigation actions to update.

4.9.2 Changes in Priorities
The District did not participate in the 2019 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan and does not have any changes in priorities.

DRAFT

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4.9.3 Hazards Not Included in District Mitigation Strategy The Big Rock Community Services District is a very small water utility district and does not have the capacity to design an all-hazards mitigation program. The District chose ten targeted projects that will enhance the overall resilience of their water infrastructure to their hazards of greatest concern.

The District did not include actions for extreme heat, or tsunami. Extreme heat does not occur in the Hiouchi area in temperatures that would impact the water operations and the District’s infrastructure is located outside of the tsunami hazard area.

4.9.4 Proposed Hazard Mitigation Actions for the HMP Update Big Rock Community Services District participated in the mitigation strategy workshop for this HMP to identify appropriate actions to include in a local hazard mitigation strategy. Its comprehensive consideration of all possible activities to address hazards of concern included review of the following FEMA documents:
• FEMA 551 “Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures” (March 2007) • FEMA “Mitigation Ideas—A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards” (January 2013) The action worksheets included at the end of this annex list the mitigation actions that Big Rock Community Services District would like to pursue in the future to reduce the effects of hazards. The actions are dependent upon available funding (grants and local match availability) and may be modified or omitted at any time based on the occurrence of new hazard events and changes in District priorities.

Table 4-9 indicates the range of proposed mitigation action categories. The four FEMA mitigation action categories are listed in the table to further demonstrate the wide range of activities and mitigation measures selected.

Volume 1 identifies four evaluation criteria for prioritizing the mitigation actions. To assist with rating each mitigation action as high, medium, or low priority, a numeric rank is assigned for each of the evaluation criteria. Table 4-10 provides a summary of the prioritization of all proposed mitigation actions for the HMP update.

4.9.5 Mitigation Strategy
The following pages list the specific plan for each mitigation action, including the agency responsible for implementation, potential funding sources, and expected timeframe for completion.

DRAFT

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Table 4-9. Analysis of Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Category Actions That Address the Hazard, by Action Category
Hazard LPR SIP NSP EAP
Drought BRCSD-7 BRCSD-1, BRCSD-3 - BRCSD-8
Earthquake BRCSD-7 BRCSD-1, BRCSD-2, BRCSD-3, BRCSD-4, BRCSD-5, BRCSD-6, BRCSD-9, BRCSD-10
- BRCSD-8
Excessive Rain BRCSD-7 BRCSD-2, BRCSD-4, BRCSD-5, BRCSD-6, BRCSD-10 - BRCSD-8 Extreme Wind BRCSD-7 BRCSD-1, BRCSD-2, BRCSD-3, BRCSD-4, BRCSD-5, BRCSD-6, BRCSD-9, BRCSD-10
- BRCSD-8
Flood BRCSD-7 BRCSD-2, BRCSD-4, BRCSD-5, BRCSD-9, BRCSD-10 - BRCSD-8 Landslide BRCSD-7 BRCSD-1, BRCSD-2, BRCSD-3, BRCSD-4, BRCSD-5, BRCSD-9, BRCSD-10
- BRCSD-8
Wildfire BRCSD-7 BRCSD-1, BRCSD-2, BRCSD-3, BRCSD-4, BRCSD-5, BRCSD-9, BRCSD-10
- BRCSD-8
Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)—These actions include government authorities, policies or codes that influence the way land and buildings are being developed and built.

Natural Systems Protection (NSP)—These are actions that minimize damage and losses and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems.

Table 4-10. Summary of Prioritization of Actions
Project Name Cost Benefit Objectives Time Frame Score Priority Catastrophic Disaster Plan Low Medium 2 1-5 years 7.4 High Emergency Shelter Medium High 2 1-5 years 7.4 High
Replace 50,000-gallon Redwood water tank High High 4 1-5 years 6.8 Medium Emergency Communications Medium Medium 3 1-5 years 6.6 Medium Replace Redwood Storage Tanks with Steel Tanks High High 4 1-10 years 5.8 Medium Retrofit Facilities High High 4 1-10 years 5.8 Medium
Upgrade the existing SCADA System High Medium 1 1-5 years 5.2 Medium Public Education and Mitigation Awareness Medium Low 1 1-5 years 5.2 Medium Replace Water Mains High Medium 3 1-10 years 4.6 Low
Improve Road access to the District’s Assets High Low 2 1-5 years 4.4 Low Note: Volume 1 of the HMP provides
DRAFT
guidance on prioritizing mitigation actions. Low (0-5), Medium (5-7), High (7-9).

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BRCSD-1 Replace Redwood Storage Tanks with Steel Tanks
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, State Water Resources Control Board Hazards of Concern: ☒ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☐ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☐ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Vulnerable redwood storage tanks in heavily wooded areas and no seismic protection.

The District’s 100,000-gallon water storage tank is located on a steep hillside with grades of 35% near the toe of the hill north of town and between 50% to 70% at and above the water tank. The tank was constructed in 1971 in accordance with California Building Code that did not specify mandatory requirements at the time. Construction of the tank, foundation and pad was completed prior to the 1975 lateral force requirement additions and the amendment of the Uniform Building Code in 1994 that included seismic safety provisions. In addition to the reduced code standards that defined the tank installation project in 1971, the tank site itself now presents a serious hazard to the community. The mountainside upon which the tank is constructed is quite steep and unstable. To place the tank on level ground, it was constructed on a built-up fill prism. GHD | Hiouchi Local Hazard Mitigation Plan | 11136755-04 | Page 84 The prism sits on top of approximately ten (10) to fifteen (15) feet of loosely consolidated material, which is underlain by ultramafic rock. Significant water seeps from the hillside above the tank are eroding the soils around the tank foundation to the extent that the fill prism would break loose from its rock base and slide down the hillside in a magnitude M5.5 earthquake-generated landslide, carrying with it the entire facility that includes the storage tank, pump house, generator and propane fuel field, antenna tower, cyclone fencing, and pipeline infrastructure. This area often experiences severe storms that can bring 18 inches of rain over three days contributing to extensive erosion and accelerated deterioration of the tank pad’s stability. Increased storage tank volume is needed based on an engineering evaluations of the water system that demonstrated the need for additional storage to support fire protection and emergency supplies should the District’s intake system fail (GHD, 2016). In addition, the District annexed the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and Redwood National Park into its jurisdiction in 2010. The two parks are currently merging their resources into one entity via a major redevelopment project that will attract another 20,000 visitors every year to Hiouchi. They have asked the District for a permanent water connection, which will require more than 2 million gallons of water per year plus increased water storage capability. A fire hydrant will be installed to mitigate the threat of fire inside the consolidated park system. The current Hillside Stabilization Plan (HSP) accommodates these requests.

Description of the Solution: Replace the 100,000-gallon Redwood water storage tank with a bolted steel tank mounted on a granite shelf and increase its working capacity to 200,000 gallons in order to accommodate new water service obligations. Upgrade the existing SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition) system. Retain the existing on-site 30 kW generator and propane fuel field. Concurrently stabilize a section of Hiouchi Mountain that is threatened by catastrophic seismic activity and add an emergency communications capability. Improve vehicle access to the site. Acquire ownership of

6.83 acres to secure all hillside facilities and the access point against terrorism/vandalism.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs; Department of Water Resources and DRAFT
State Water Resources Control Board grants

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-18 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Implementation Timeline: 5+ years
Objectives Met: 1,2,4,5
Benefits: This mitigation action will result in a project (HSP) to install a 200,000-gallon replacement water storage tank on a new pedestal that is tied to bedrock, protected by a retaining wall, and constructed to modern seismic standards. The HSP will mitigate the risk that the tank, supporting pedestal, associated pipeline and valve infrastructure, and hillside mixed with trees and granite rocks will slide off of Hiouchi Mountain causing extensive damage to a populated neighborhood and potential loss of life.

Impact on Socially
Vulnerable Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future
Development:

Added capacity will allow for future developments in smith river Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Existing tanks are anywhere from 30-50 years old and at the end of their lifecycle. 100,000 gallon tank is leaking.

Impact on Capabilities: If tanks receive damage we will not be able to supply water to the community Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority
DRAFT

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-19 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-2 Emergency Communications
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County
Hazards of Concern: ☐ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
DRAFT

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-20 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Description of the
Problem:

The first problem is that reliable SCADA system operations on an around-the-clock basis are dependent upon uninterrupted, line-of-sight microwave communication between the Big Rock CSD’s main pump house on the north bank of the Smith River and both water storage tank facilities located on the south side of Hiouchi Mountain. These critical communication nodes are about 0.7 mile distant from each other. Tall forest trees growing even taller in-between those locations are beginning to interrupt the microwave connection, thereby causing an average loss of 120,000 gallons of potable water per month due to tank fill signals not reaching the pumping facility. Environmental constraints make it impossible for the District to remove the problematic trees or connect the sites with electrical lines. This steadily worsening situation is unacceptable to the residents of Hiouchi, the Special District, and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) that regulates the BRCSD’s municipal water system via a permanent license. The proposed 70- foot antenna tower is the sole and best solution at this juncture, for it would remain effective for decades to come.

The second issue is that tall mountains surround the somewhat isolated Hiouchi Planning Area thereby narrowing the range of disaster mitigation possibilities for some hazards.

During hazard events anywhere, effective communications typically prove to be indispensable for efficient and effective emergency responses, resource management, and positive outcomes. Certain potential hazards would render the existing communications systems between Hiouchi and the Crescent City area ineffective, especially during and after a Cascadia Event that most likely would neutralize all communications nodes inside the Pacific Coastal Zone. Exclusive reliance upon OASIS for disaster relief would be unwise in the context of worst-cast planning. A catastrophic disaster event in Del Norte County, for instance, could neutralize the fixed OASIS terminal at the Emergency Operations Center in Crescent City.

The Planning Team and the BRCSD’s Board of Directors/Trustees agreed that a reliable backup emergency communications option via the Camp 6 repeater and a backup relationship with the Josephine County Emergency Center (JCEC) to the east of Del Norte County would be a sensible plan of action. If U.S. Highways 101 and 199 are impassible as the result of bridge and/or Last Chance Grade failures, OASIS Transportable Units could not be utilized in Del Norte County unless they were delivered by Army National Guard CH-47 helicopter. Landline communications systems can be swamped by excessive customer use during serious emergencies, lost altogether due to power failures, and interrupted for long periods when telephone poles and lines fail. The Hiouchi Planning Area experienced nearly all of those predicaments over the past few years. Even during a moderate earthquake, serious hazard vulnerability can stem from electricity loss and communications breakdowns. Continuity in governance relies heavily upon dependable communications capabilities, which is a FEMA teaching point for public officials during workshops and seminars. Last, Del Norte County’s Tactical Interoperable Communications Plan is dependent upon either line-of-sight radio communications from transmitter station to receiver station or a repeater antenna placed high above the transmitter and receiver stations that are attempting to communicate with each other. Del Norte County’s repeater array located on Red Mountain currently serves as the region’s hub for first-responder communications. All repeaters at that location must be removed by 2019. FEMA (Cal OES) is reportedly considering only one alternative at this juncture, which is Rogers Peak in Humboldt County just east of Big Lagoon at 2,779 feet. Search and Rescue (SAR) topography radio frequency engineering software indicates that, absent line-of-sight capability, the communities of Gasquet, Hiouchi, and Smith River would not be able to communicate with any type of repeater placed on Rogers Peak. A satisfactory alternative to Red Mountain’s repeaters therefore does not yet exist. However, placement of the proposed 70-foot antenna tower on Hiouchi Mountain would indeed facilitate connection with an existing and fully operational Del Norte Amateur Radio Club (DNARC) repeater located at Camp 6 above Gasquet. (The site is owned by the State of California and managed by the California Highway Patrol.) The JCEC that coordinates all SAR activities in southern Oregon is able to communicate through Camp 6, thereby giving the Hiouchi Planning Area the option of utilizing a highly effective SAR network when needed and an extensive HAM communications network that would expand Hiouchi’s emergency reach DRAFT
throughout the western United States and provide the District with options to communicate

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-21 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
directly with California’s Northern Operations Center in Redding and also California’s Office of Emergency Services Warning Center at Mather in a worst-case scenario. The stand-alone antenna tower can endure significant seismic and wind forces; support transmissions and reception from antenna arrays mounted at the top of the tower well above surrounding treetops; offer a range of communications capabilities via HF, VHF, and UHF amateur and “first-responder” frequency bands; integrate a repeater system that links with a repeater at Camp 6; and operate off of the conventional power grid via a 30 kW electrical generator system (see BRCSD 1) equipped with an ample propane fuel supply.

Description of the
Solution:

Install a complete emergency communications system along with a 70-ft antenna tower for emergency HF/VHF/UHF and Simplex communications. The tower will feature a microwave antenna to perform SCADA operations. This initiative is included in the Big Rock CSD’s Catastrophic Disaster Plan, which applies to any event that could isolate the Township of Hiouchi from electrical power, deny use of the adjoining U.S. Highway, and cause loss of access to the Camp 6 Repeater situated on the mountainside above the Township of Gasquet. A 45 kw generator fueled by a large propane tank would enable 100 watts of radio transmission capability and also power the entire building, which is presently designated as an Incident Command Post during most significant emergencies. The District plans to man the radio station via its own human resources.

Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding
Sources:

Local budgets; FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs Implementation
Timeline:
1-5 years
Objectives Met: 1,2,4
Benefits: This state-of-the-art emergency communications system featuring extensive amateur (HAM) radio capabilities would link Hiouchi directly to the Josephine County Emergency Center in Merlin, Oregon, Del Norte County’s Emergency Operations Center in Crescent City, the Northern Operations Center in Redding, and FEMA’s (Cal OES) command center at Mather, California. Del Norte County’s Search and Rescue Team would enjoy access to the BRCSD’s communications system, thereby providing the Team with enhanced operational capabilities in remote mountainous areas of this county. HAM radios have been used since the early 1900s to support civilian and military emergency operations.

Impact on Socially
Vulnerable Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future
Development:

N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Increases the resiliency and redundancy of the emergency communications in the service area for Big Rock CSD.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority
DRAFT
Medium

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-22 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-3: Replace 50,000-gallon Redwood water tank
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, State Water Resources Control Board Hazards of Concern: ☒ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☐ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☐ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The District’s engineering evaluation of the water system showed the need for approximately 350,000 gallons of storage to support daily variations in demand, fire protection, and emergency supplies should the District’s intake system fail. (GHD, 2016).

Description of the Solution: Replace the 50,000-gallon Redwood water tank with a bolted steel tank mounted on ultramafic granite and increase total capacity to 100,000 gallons.

Secure against threats of vandalism/terrorism.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: State Water Resources Control Board or Department of Water Resources grant; or FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
Implementation Timeline: Next 5 years
Objectives Met: 1,2,4,5
Benefits: Improves the District’s ability to provide water for fighting fires and increases supplies for emergency conditions that shut down the District’s source water production.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: New housing cannot be built in the area without expanding the capacity of the existing water system.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Increases the resiliency of the water supply/system in the Big Rock CSD service area for permanent and seasonal residents.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-23 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-4: Improve Road access to the District’s Assets
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, State Water Resources Control Board Hazards of Concern: ☐ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The BRCSD owns and manages several remote facilities that are critical to the safe and healthy operations of the District. They require daily attention.

Description of the Solution: Improve road access to the District’s assets and emplace flood and erosion barriers.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs Implementation Timeline: Next 5 years
Objectives Met: 2,4
Benefits: Prevent existing road and trail thoroughfares from hindering rapid responses during disasters. Road improvements and installation of flood/erosion barriers would mitigate damage caused by winter water runoff. Facilitate access during wet winter conditions. Enable security measures to be applied along asset access routes in accordance with U.S. Department of Homeland Security Guidelines for public water systems in rural areas.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Supports accessibility of emergency personnel and residents during emergencies.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority Low
DRAFT

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-24 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-5: Upgrade the existing SCADA System
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County,
Hazards of Concern: ☐ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The existing SCADA system does not provide the functionality needed to control the system from remote locations, which can place the community at risk from health and safety standpoints especially when the BRCSD’s managers are not able to access the mountainside during inclement weather.

During the winter of 2016/2017, for instance, Hiouchi experienced 150 inches of precipitation that caused extensive persistent erosion of unpaved surfaces leading to limited access to water storage tanks, pumps, and emergency generator assets controlled by the aged and design-limited SCADA system. In addition, problems are mounting as the SCADA system continues to degrade.

A remote control capability, design improvements, modern performance sensors that link to a secure website, and fault reporting nodes should be added and/or modernized to prevent water loss, improve system efficiencies, increase water system management effectiveness, and ensure system security.

Description of the Solution: Upgrade the existing SCADA system.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: State Water Resources Control Board Grant or HMGP Implementation Timeline: Next 5 years
Objectives Met: 2
Benefits: Improves the partially degraded system’s abilities to manage and secure water storage and distribution assets.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This action will benefit the water systems lifeline.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority
DRAFT
Medium

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-25 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-6: Replace Water Mains
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, State Water Resources Control Board Hazards of Concern: ☐ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☐ Flood
☐ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☐ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Pipelines subjected to significant displacement can develop leaks or breaks.

These may be caused by ground deformation, friction wear by sharp rocks, or by strong ground shaking (CalOES, 2013). The District’s AC (asbestosconcrete) water mains are over 47 years old and reaching the end of their useful life, estimated at 50 years. Older pipes and those constructed with inferior technologies are more vulnerable to breaks and leaks due to minor earthquakes and severe weather events, potentially leaving portions of the community without potable water. Typical mitigation measures to counter this vulnerability include (a) assessing siting requirements and installing flexible couplings during the pipeline replacement process, (b) replacing thrust blocks on pipeline junctions that have greater than 45-degree offsets, and (c) substitution of entire pipeline sections with newer and stronger pipes. The District needs to replace approximately 2.8 miles of pipe, along with the associated valves, corporation boxes, and pressure reducers. The potential benefits of earthquake-proof water pipelines, such as those used in Japan for the past 40 years, more recently have been proposed for installation in San Francisco (SHMP,2013). The challenges associated with providing drinkable water in the aftermath of a Cascadia Earthquake Event argues in favor of a similar mitigation strategy for Hiouchi.

Description of the Solution: Replace all aged water mains, including resilient features, to reduce damage during hazard event.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: Grants State Water Resources Control Board or HMGP Implementation Timeline: 1-10 years
Objectives Met: 1,2,4
Benefits: Avoid loss of water service.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This action will benefit the water systems lifeline.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority
DRAFT
Low

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-26 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-7: Catastrophic Disaster Plan
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, State Water Resources Control Board Hazards of Concern: ☒ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: A Catastrophic Disaster Plan is required to anticipate and manage hazards as they develop. The BRCSD’s NHN Program initiative will be exercised as previously discussed to maintain community interest in emergency preparedness, provide adequate training, develop localized experience levels, provide an opportunity for feedback on hazard mitigation planning, and enable the community to perfect its emergency management procedures pursuant to hazard mitigation. Disaster recovery processes will be emphasized.

Description of the Solution: Develop a Big Rock CSD Catastrophic Disaster Plan addressing prevention, protection, response, recovery, and mitigations. The BRCSD intends to collaborate with the County’s Emergency Services Team to incorporate the County’s planning considerations into the District’s plan Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: District Funds
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,5
Benefits: Inspired community involvement would enhance the survival of all residents within the District’s sphere of influence.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This action will benefit the water systems lifeline.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☒ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority High
DRAFT

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-27 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-8: Public Education and Mitigation Awareness
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, State Water Resources Control Board Hazards of Concern: ☒ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Mitigation for disasters prior to their occurrence and preparedness are key to survival under exigent conditions, especially in a violent situation such as the Cascadia Earthquake Event that threatens to isolate the community of Hiouchi if the surrounding bridges collapse. An earthquake of that magnitude can destroy homes, injure residents and cause sickness, food becomes scarce, and criminal activity develops. Assistance from afar would bring the necessary relief by helicopter, such as survival essentials, medications, evacuation as a matter of last resort, etc. Neighborhoods must be able to deal with such exigencies and work together for the benefit of all. Panic can be minimized when a community is prepared, strong leadership is present, and neighborhood support teams are well organized and trained. Additional education on actions community members can take to protect themselves and their property during a hazard event is needed. All of the District’s Neighborhood Leaders need to be educated, trained and equipped to provide mitigation ideas to lessen the effects of hazards as well as how to effectively deal with each hazard listed in this HMP.

Description of the Solution: The District intends to collaborate with the County’s Emergency Services Team to improve the public’s understanding of home-based mitigation actions.

The NHN Program will be used to provide resources to homeowners on mitigation opportunities and to solicit feedback on the HMP through neighborhood leaders which will provide neighborhood feedback to the Big Rock CSD Board on plan implementation.

Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA HMGP grants, District Funds Implementation Timeline: 1-5 Years
Objectives Met: 3
Benefits: Heightened community understanding of disaster mitigation options and preparedness resources to reduce the impacts of natural disasters.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

This action will promote community awareness of natural hazards, including for vulnerable populations.

Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This action will benefit the water systems lifeline.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☒ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority
DRAFT
Medium

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-28 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-9: Retrofit Facilities
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, State Water Resources Control Board Hazards of Concern: ☐ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☐ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The District’s water tank, water lines, and other infrastructure are not mitigated against earthquakes and are located in areas at risk from landslides and wildfires.

Description of the Solution: Where appropriate, support retro-fitting, purchase or relocation of structures located in high hazard areas, prioritizing those structures that have experienced repetitive losses and/or are located in high or medium ranked hazard areas, including but not limited to vulnerable pipe and other water treatment/delivery infrastructure. Secure foundations, install additional hydrants.

Estimated Cost: High
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs Implementation Timeline: 1-10 years
Objectives Met: 1,2,4,5
Benefits: Increase the resiliency of critical facilities within the Big Rock CSD service area to identified hazards.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: New housing cannot be built in the area without expanding the capacity of the existing water system.

Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Increases the resiliency of facilities in the Big Rock CSD service area for permanent and seasonal residents.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

4. Big Rock Community Services District
4-29 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
BRCSD-10: Emergency Shelter
Lead Agency: Big Rock CSD
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County
Hazards of Concern: ☐ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The District lacks adequate shelter for permanent and/or seasonal residents in the event of severe disasters including but not limited to earthquake, extreme heat, landslide excessive rain/wind, or wildfire.

Description of the Solution: Identify adequate facilities and equip with backup power and supplies to support sheltering of likely impacted populations for hazards of high/medium concern.

Estimated Cost: Medium
Potential Funding Sources: FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs Implementation Timeline: 1-5 years
Objectives Met: 2,5
Benefits: District would have full control of the water system and the ability to control water resources when access to sites is blocked.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

Increases the resiliency and redundancy of the water supply in the area.

Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☐ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☒Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority High
DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-1 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

5. CRESCENT FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
This jurisdictional annex to the Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) provides information to assist public and private sectors in Crescent Fire Protection District with reducing losses from future hazard events. This annex is not guidance of what to do when a disaster occurs; its focus is on actions that can be implemented prior to a disaster to reduce or eliminate damage to property and people. The annex presents a general overview of Crescent Fire Protection District, describes who participated in the planning process, assesses the District’s risk, vulnerability, and capabilities, and outlines a strategy for achieving a more resilient community.

5.1 HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING TEAM
The Crescent Fire Protection District identified primary and alternate HMP points of contact and developed this plan over the course of several months. Chief Kevin Carey represented the community on the Del Norte County HMP Planning Partnership and Steering Committee and supported the local planning process by securing input from persons with specific knowledge to enhance the plan. All departments were asked to contribute to the annex development through reviewing and contributing to the capability assessment, reporting on the status of previously identified actions, and participating in action identification and prioritization.

Table 5-1 summarizes District staff who participated in the development of the annex and in what capacity. Additional documentation of the District’s planning activities through Planning Partnership meetings is included in Volume 1.

Table 5-1. Hazard Mitigation Planning Team
Primary Point of Contact Alternate Point of Contact
Name/Title: Kevin Carey, Fire Chief
Address: 255 W. Washington Blvd.

Crescent City, Calif. 95531
Phone Number:

Email:

Name/Title: James Weiland, Battalion Chief
Address: 255 W. Washington Blvd.

Crescent City, Calif. 95531
Phone Number:

Email:

Additional Contributors
Name/Title: Vanessa Duncan, Administrative Specialist
Method of Participation: Administrative Support

5.2 COMMUNITY PROFILE
The Crescent Fire Protection District (District) is the largest fire district in Del Norte County, serving directly or through automatic aid agreements 84 percent of the County’s population base. The District is located on the extremely remote and rugged Northern California coastline just south of the CaliforniaOregon border. The District surrounds the City of Crescent City on the North, East, and South borders of the City. State Highway 101 passes through the District North and South, from milepost 30.8 to milepost 18.0, respectively. Approximately three miles of State Route 1 DRAFT
99 lies within the North-East

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-2 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
corner of the District. Both highways are vital transportation routes serving the Crescent City area, all communities within Del Norte County, and additional communities north and south.

The District consists of one paid Fire Chief, one part-time Deputy Chief-Training Officer, one administrative assistant, and an all-volunteer fire suppression staff. The District participates in functional consolidation and complete auto-aid with the City of Crescent City under the organizational name of Crescent City Fire and Rescue. Automatic aid is provided by agreement to Hiouchi and Klamath Fire Departments for all full response incidents (fire, rescue, extrication), and automatic aid move up coverage at the jurisdiction boundaries for Smith River and Fort Dick Fire Departments.

Crescent City Fire and Rescue participates in mutual aid by agreement with all fire agencies in Del Norte County. Crescent City Fire and Rescue responds to approximately 1,500 calls for service annually.

The District operates three fire stations within the fire protection district boundaries. The main station is located at 255 W. Washington Blvd, and houses response apparatus and the administrative offices.

Additional stations are located at 550 E. Cooper Avenue and at 175 Humboldt Road, and house response apparatus. The City of Crescent City owns the fire station at 520 I Street, with that station used by Crescent City Fire and Rescue and housing response apparatus. Crescent City Fire and Rescue also provides personnel as needed at the fire station located at the Del Norte County Airport to augment crash rescue response services required for commercial flight service. Due to the rural nature of many areas of the District, adequate fire hydrant coverage is limited in many areas. This requires long fire flow supply line stretches and heavy reliance on water tenders to provide water to the fire scene.

The Crescent Fire Protection District Board is governed by a five-member Board of Directors, elected by the voters. The District was formed in 1949 and relies on property tax and two voter approved assessments for operational funding. The Board assumes responsibility for the adoption of this plan; Crescent City Fire and Rescue will oversee its implementation.

The District participates in the Public Protection Class Rating System and currently has a rating of 4 and 8 in non-hydrant areas.

5.2.1 Service Area and Trends
The district serves a population of approximately 13,000. Its service area covers an area of 16,621 acres (26 square miles) and it provides the following services: fire suppression, rescue/extrication, hazardous material response, emergency medical services (first responder/basic life support), building plan review, construction inspections, and safety inspections.

5.3 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to the public that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. Del Norte County is sparsely populated with the majority of government and private services available in Crescent City, including grocery stores, DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-3 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
hardware stores, and restaurants. The County posted information about the HMP update on the County Facebook page and on the OES website. Flyers advertising the HMP update were canvassed across Crescent City. The public was invited to participate in the planning process by responding to the public survey, attending a virtual Steering Committee meeting, attending an in-person meeting, and reviewing the draft plan.

In addition to that work, the District partnered with the County to post information about the HMP update at local businesses and community gathering areas, such as State Farm Insurance, Pacific Northwest Physical Therapy, Crescent City Harbor, and the Del Norte County Library. Figure 5-1 shows selected outreach efforts and Appendix A includes all outreach efforts.

Figure 5-1. Public Outreach by Crescent Fire Protection District

5.3.1 Public Feedback Integration
Of the 196 responses to the public survey, 52 respondents reported that they received services from the District. These 52 respondents were extremely or very concerned about landslides, tsunamis, and wildfires. They reported receiving emergency information through mass notifications, government websites and newsletters, public meetings, TV/radio, and Facebook. They expressed concern about natural hazards closing US Highway 101, power outages, and road flooding. The mitigation strategy was prioritized with these concerns and community limitations in mind.

5.4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Volume 1 of this HMP describes the outreach to stakeholders that was undertaken on behalf of all participating jurisdictions to prepare this HMP update. In addition to that work, the District invited stakeholders to participate in the planning process. The following organizations were invited to participate
DRAFT
by attending a Steering Committee meeting, responding to the

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-4 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
stakeholder survey, contributing information and expertise to the plan, and reviewing the draft plan:

5.4.1 Local and Regional Agencies Involved in Hazard Mitigation Activities • Crescent City Fire and Rescue
• Crescent City and Del Norte County Public Works

5.4.2 Agencies that Have the Authority to Regulate Development • Del Norte County Planning Division

5.4.3 Neighboring Communities
• Klamath Volunteer Fire Department
• Fort Dick Volunteer Fire Department

5.4.4 Representatives of Business, Academia, and Other Private Organizations
• Del Norte Unified School District
• Pacific Power
• Del Norte Ambulance

5.4.5 Nonprofit Organizations and Community-Based Organizations • American Red Cross

5.5 JURISDICTIONAL CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT AND INTEGRATION Crescent Fire Protection District performed an inventory and analysis of existing capabilities, plans, programs, and policies that enhance its ability to implement mitigation strategies. Volume 1 describes the components included in the capability assessment and their significance for hazard mitigation planning. The jurisdictional assessment for this annex includes analyses of the following:
• Planning and regulatory capabilities
• Development and permitting capabilities
• Administrative and technical capabilities
• Fiscal capabilities
• Education and outreach capabilities
• Classification under various community mitigation programs • Adaptive capacity to withstand hazard events
DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-5 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
For a community to succeed in reducing long-term risk, hazard mitigation must be integrated into dayto-day local government operations. As part of the hazard mitigation analysis, planning and /policy documents were reviewed and each jurisdiction was surveyed to obtain a better understanding of their progress toward plan integration. Development of an updated mitigation strategy provided an opportunity for Crescent Fire Protection District to identify opportunities for integrating mitigation concepts into ongoing District procedures.

5.5.1 Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Table 5-2 summarizes the planning and regulatory tools that are available to Crescent Fire Protection District.

5.5.2 Development and Permitting Capability
Crescent Fire Protection District is a special district for unincorporated Del Norte County and Crescent City. The District does not permit or regulate development. Development permits within the District’s jurisdiction are issued through Del Norte County or Crescent City. Therefore, development and permitting capabilities are not applicable to the District.

5.5.3 Administrative and Technical Capability
Table 5-3 summarizes potential staff and personnel resources available to Crescent Fire Protection District and their current responsibilities that contribute to hazard mitigation.

5.5.4 Fiscal Capability
Table 5-4 summarizes financial resources available to Crescent Fire Protection District.

5.5.5 Education and Outreach Capability
Table 5-5 summarizes the education and outreach resources available to Crescent Fire Protection District.

5.5.6 Community Classifications
Table 5-6 summarizes classifications for community programs available to Crescent Fire Protection District.

DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-6 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 5-2. Planning and Regulatory Capability and Integration Jurisdictio
n has this?
Citation and Date (code
chapter or name of plan,
date of enactment or plan
adoption)
Authority
(local, county,
state, federal)
Responsible
Person, Department
or Agency
Codes, Ordinances, & Regulations
Building Code
Fire Marshal
Yes
Yes
California Building Code
(2022)
California Fire Code (2022)
California Health and Safety
Code
Local/State
Local
DN County Building &
Safety
Kevin Carey
CCFR
The California Building Code (CBC) contains general building design and construction requirements relating to fire and life safety, structural safety, and access compliance. CBC provisions provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property, and public welfare by regulating and controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use and occupancy, location, and maintenance of all buildings and structures and certain equipment.

Fire Suppression Assessment
Ordinance
Yes Ordinance No. 21-001,
adopted July 12, 2021
Local Crescent Fire
Protection District
Any local agency which provides fire suppression services directly or by contract with the state or a local agency may, by ordinance or by resolution adopted after notice and hearing, determine and levy an assessment for fire suppression services pursuant to this article. The assessment may be made for the purpose of obtaining, furnishing, operating, and maintaining fire suppression equipment or apparatus or for the purpose of paying the salaries and benefits of firefighting personnel, or both, whether or not fire suppression services are actually used by or upon a parcel, improvement, or property.

Planning
Fire Suppression Assessment Yes 2021 Assessment Engineers Report
District Crescent Fire
Protection District
This report describes the proposed Fire Suppression Assessment for Crescent Fire Protection District, including District parcels, expenses, and individual parcel assessments to be levied in fiscal year 2021/22. Fire expenses include budget and financial planning documents provided by the District. Assessment benefit was allocated to each parcel according to the Del Norte County 2020 parcel listing and associated land used codes within the District Boundaries.

Master Plan Yes 10 Year Financial Master Plan District Crescent Fire Protection District
This is the first stand-alone Master Plan in an effort to document current services, costs and structures for the fire department and identify long-term strategies for improved fire and life safety services to the community. This Master Plan revisits the organization’s mission and sets forth a continuous improvement plan that serves to align department goals with community expectations. The report presents a roadmap of activities that the department and its partners intend to undertake to achieve important goals for staffing, community outreach, training, facilities, and fiscal sustainability.

Community Wildfire Protection
Plan
Yes Del Norte County Fire Safe
Council Community Wildfire
Protection Plan 2020
County Del Norte County Fire
Safe Council
This Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) provides a broad description of what is necessary for a fire to begin and how communities can defend themselves when faced with a wildfire. The Plan focuses on how fuel can be mitigated to enhance community safety. It outlines the steps necessary for ensuring that local fire suppression efforts are successful (e.g. residence addressing, adequate roads, proper turnarounds, secondary access, water supply, etc.).

DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-7 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 5-3. Administrative and Technical Capabilities
Resources Available? Comment
Administrative Capability
Emergency Management/Public Safety Department No N/A
Maintenance programs to reduce risk (stormwater
maintenance, tree trimming, etc.)
No N/A
Mutual aid agreements Yes Del Norte County Fire Services Automatic Mutual Aid Agreement; adopted by all local
government fire service agencies in Del Norte
County.

Human Resources Manual - Do any job descriptions
specifically include identifying or implementing
mitigation projects or other efforts to reduce natural
hazard risk?
No N/A
Technical/Staffing Capability
Planners or engineers with knowledge of land
development and land management practices
Yes None in house, private consultants by contract.

Engineers or professionals trained in building or
infrastructure construction practices
Yes None in house, private consultants by contract.

Planners or engineers with an understanding of
natural hazards
Yes None in house, private consultants by contract.

Staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost
analysis
Yes Fire Chief, Executive Secretary
Personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or Hazus
applications
Yes None in house, private consultants by contract.

Environmental scientists familiar with natural
hazards
Yes Humboldt State University
Surveyors Yes None in house, private consultants by contract.

Emergency manager Yes Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, Battalion Chiefs Grant writers Yes Various In-House Personnel
Table 5-4. Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resources Accessible or Eligible to Use?
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG, CDBG-DR) No
Capital improvement project funding Yes
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes Yes
User fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric service Yes Impact fees for homebuyers or developers of new development/homes Yes Incur debt through general obligation bonds Yes
Incur debt through special tax bonds Yes
Incur debt through private activity bonds No
Withhold public expenditures in hazard-prone areas No
Other federal or state funding programs Yes
Other
DRAFT
Share of general property tax revenue

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-8 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 5-5. Education and Outreach Capabilities
Outreach Resources Available? Comment
Public information officer or communications office Yes Kevin Carey – Fire Chief Ray Rook – Battalion Chief - Communications
Personnel skilled or trained in website development No N/A Hazard mitigation information available on your
website
No N/A
Social media for hazard mitigation education and
outreach
Yes Education and outreach via Department
Facebook page
Citizen boards or commissions that address issues
related to hazard mitigation
No N/A
Warning systems for hazard events Yes Everbridge is used in the community for hazard notification. It uses any phone number
entered by the person signing up to receive
mass notifications.

Natural disaster/safety programs in place for schools Yes Public Education teaching sessions throughout the year
Organizations that conduct outreach to socially
vulnerable populations and underserved populations
No N/A
Public outreach mechanisms / programs to inform
citizens on natural hazards, risk, and ways to protect
themselves during such events
Yes Everbridge is used in the community for
hazard notification. It uses any phone number
entered by the person signing up to receive
mass notifications.

Table 5-6. Community Classifications
Program Participating? Classification Date Classified
Community Rating System (CRS) N/A N/A N/A
Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS) N/A N/A N/A Public Protection (ISO Fire Protection Classes 1 to 10) Yes Rating 2/2Y 2013 National Weather Service StormReady Certification N/A N/A N/A Firewise Communities classification N/A N/A N/A
N/A = Not applicable

5.5.7 Adaptive Capacity
Adaptive capacity is defined as “the ability of systems, institutions, humans and other organisms to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or respond to consequences” (IPCC 2022). Each jurisdiction has a unique combination of capabilities to adjust to, protect from, and withstand a future hazard event, future conditions, and changing risk. Table 5-7 summarizes the adaptive capacity for each identified hazard of concern and the District’s capability to address related actions using the following classifications:
• Strong adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does have the capability to effectively respond, plans/policies exceed minimum requirements; deployable resources all of which decreases vulnerability.

DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-9 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Moderate adaptive capacity means minimum requirements are in place; moderate capabilities; mitigation measures are identified but not implemented widespread; jurisdiction can recover but needs outside resources.
• Weak adaptive capacity means the jurisdiction does not have the capability to effectively respond, which leads to an increase in vulnerability. Examples include weak/outdated/inconsistent plans, policies, codes/ordinances in place; no redundancies; limited to no deployable resources; limited capabilities to respond; long recovery.

Table 5-7. Adaptive Capacity
Hazard Adaptive Capacity - Strong/Moderate/Weak
Drought Moderate
Extreme Heat Moderate
Extreme Wind Moderate
Excessive Rain Moderate
Earthquake Moderate
Flood Moderate
Landslide Moderate
Tsunami Strong
Wildfire Strong

5.6 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM COMPLIANCE
Crescent Fire Protection District is a special district for unincorporated Del Norte County and Crescent City. The District does not participate in the NFIP directly. Therefore, all structures located within the District’s jurisdiction were included in the Del Norte County and Crescent City assessments of NFIPinsured structures with repetitive loss. This information can be found in Section 2.6 and Section 3.6.

5.7 JURISDICTIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 provide detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards, including summaries of the District’s risk assessment results and data used to determine the hazard ranking. Key local risk assessment information is presented below.

5.7.1 Hazard Area
Hazard area maps provided below illustrate the probable hazard areas impacted within the District are shown in Figure 5-2 and Figure 5-3. These maps are based on the best available data at the time of the preparation of this plan and are adequate for planning purposes. Maps are provided only for hazards that can be identified clearly using mapping techniques and technologies and for which the District has significant exposure. The maps show the location of potential new development, where available.

DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-10 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Figure 5-2. Crescent Fire Protection District Hazard Area Flood, Tsunami, and NEHRP Soil Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-11 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Figure 5-3. Crescent Fire Protection District Wildfire and Landslide Hazard Area Extent and Location DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-12 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

5.7.2 Hazard Event History
The history of natural and non-natural hazard events in Del Norte County is detailed in Volume 1, where each hazard profile includes a chronology of historical events that have affected the County and its municipalities. Table 5-8 provides details on loss and damage in the District during hazard events since the last hazard mitigation plan update.

Table 5-8. Hazard Event History in Crescent Fire Protection District Dates of
Event
Event Type
(Disaster
Declaration)
County
Designated? Summary of Event
Damage and
Losses in
Crescent Fire
Protection District
February 24
to March 1,
2019
DR-4434-CA Yes An atmospheric river spread across northern California and produced heavy rain that led to
localized flooding. Impacts included flooding on
Highway 199 along the west shoulder and
northbound lane.

None
January 20,
2020 to May
11, 2023
DR-4482-CA
EM-3428-CA
Yes The first confirmed case in California was reported on January 25, 2020. Del Norte County experienced
surges in COVID-19 cases in December 2020,
August to September 2021, January to February
2022, and July 2022. Overall, Del Norte reported
8,005 confirmed cases and 62 fatalities between
2020 and 2023.

None
September 4
to
November
17, 2020
DR-4569-CA
CA20-3
Yes Record-breaking hot temperatures exacerbated
existing fire conditions, leading to drier conditions
and allowing wind to facilitate the rapid spread of new fires. One complex, the Slater Fire, spread into Del
Norte County and caused damage to roadways.

None
December
27, 2022 to
January 31,
2023
DR-4683-CA
CA23-1
Yes Atmospheric river led to multiple heavy rainstorms
and strong winds in late December and January.

Strong wind caused multiple trees to fall, leading to
blockages on Highways 101, 197, and 199, and
Parkway Drive. Downed power lines caused multiple
fires. Over 10,000 customers without power in and
around Crescent City due to strong winds.

None
February 21
to July 10,
2023
DR-4699-CA
EM-3592-CA
CA23-3
Yes Severe storms and high winds led to mudslides and
landslides. Downed trees blocked portions of
Highway 199.

None
August 15,
2023
CA23-5 Yes Dry thunderstorms produced lightning across the Six Rivers National Forest. 27 fires grew rapidly in the
Gasquet Ranger District, jumping Highway 199, causing
a 3-week closure, and requiring evacuation of the Town
of Gasquet. The fire destroyed high-tension powerlines
powering all of Del Norte County. The County was
without power through August 25 when generators were
installed. Main transmission lines were not repaired until September 10. The fire burned into October with a total of 95,000 acres burned plus 2 residences and 3 minor
structures destroyed.

None
EM = FEMA Emergency Declaration
DRAFT
; DR = FEMA Major Disaster Declaration

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5.7.3 Hazard Ranking
The hazard profiles in Volume 1 have detailed information regarding each planning partner’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. The following presents key risk assessment results for the District.

The participating jurisdictions have differing degrees of vulnerability to the hazards of concern, so each jurisdiction ranked its own degree of risk to each hazard. The community-specific hazard ranking is based on problems and impacts identified by the risk assessment presented in Volume 1. The ranking process involves an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence for each hazard; the potential impacts of the hazard on people, property, and the economy; community capabilities to address the hazard; and changing future climate conditions. The District reviewed the County hazard ranking and individual results to assess the relative risk of the hazards of concern to the community. Table 5-9 shows the District’s final hazard rankings for identified hazards of concern. Mitigation action development uses the ranking to target hazards with the highest risk.

Table 5-9. Hazard Ranking
Hazard Rank
Drought Low
Extreme Heat Low
Extreme Wind Medium
Excessive Rain Medium
Earthquake Low
Flood Medium
Landslide Medium
Tsunami High
Wildfire High
Note: The scale is based on the hazard rankings established in Volume 1, modified as appropriate based on review by the jurisdiction

5.7.4 Identified Issues
Volume 1 of this hazard mitigation plan provides complete risk assessments for each identified hazard of concern. This section provides information on a few key vulnerabilities for the jurisdiction. The following issues have been identified based on a review of the results of the risk assessment, public involvement strategy, and other available resources:
• Earthquake
• District facilities are located on class D soil, which may be prone to liquefaction • Power disruptions can occur as a result of earthquakes • Response efforts may be hampered if fire facilities are damaged • Response efforts may be hampered as roads are blocked by building debris • Tsunami
DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
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• The Crescent Fire Protection District Engine Station is located in the tsunami inundation zone
• Power disruptions can occur as a result of tsunamis
• Response efforts may be hampered if fire facilities are damaged • Response efforts may be hampered as roads are blocked by water and debris • Extreme wind
• Power disruption can occur as a result of severe weather events. • Response efforts may be hampered as roads are blocked by downed trees and powerlines. • Landslide
• Response efforts may be hampered as roads are blocked by landslide debris. • Flooding
• Response efforts may be hampered as roads are blocked by floodwaters • Wildfire
• Power disruptions can occur as a result of wildfire
• Response efforts may be hampered as roads are blocked by fire and fire-damaged trees • Smoke can disrupt aircraft access to the event and to commercial air travel Mitigation actions addressing these issues were prioritized for consideration in the action plan presented in the following section.

5.8 CONDITIONS THAT MAY IMPACT RISK

5.8.1 Population Pattern Trends
The District estimates that they serve a population of approximately 12,600 residents. The District is based in the one incorporated city in Del Norte County and has a visitor influx during the summer months (and similar visitor increases during the winter months). The overall County population is expected to decrease over the coming decades.

5.8.2 Changes in Land Use and Development
Crescent Fire Protection District is a special district for unincorporated Del Norte County and Crescent City. The District does not permit or regulate development. Development permits within the District’s jurisdiction are issued through Del Norte County or Crescent City. Therefore, new and anticipated development located within the District’s jurisdiction were included in the Del Norte County and Crescent City Growth/Development Trends. This information can be found in DRAFT
Sections 2.8.2 and 3.8.2.

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-15 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

5.9 MITIGATION STRATEGY AND PRIORITIZATION
This section discusses the status of mitigation actions from the previous HMP, describes proposed hazard mitigation actions, and prioritizes actions to address over the next five years.

5.9.1 Past Mitigation Action Status
Table 5-10 indicates progress on the District’s mitigation strategy identified in the 2019 HMP. Actions that are still recommended but not completed or that are in progress are carried forward and combined with new actions as part of the mitigation strategy for this plan update. Previous actions that are now ongoing programs and capabilities are indicated as such and are presented in the capability assessment earlier in this annex.

5.9.2 Additional Mitigation Efforts
In addition to the mitigation actions completed in Table 5-10, the District identified the following mitigation efforts completed since the last HMP:
• The District participates in the Cal OES prepositioning program to staff emergency response in times of upcoming severe weather events. As a result, first responders are well-positioned to respond to incidents immediately after they occur.

5.9.3 Changes in Priorities
There have been no changes in priorities for Crescent Fire Protection District since the 2019 HMP update.

5.9.4 Hazards Included in District Mitigation Strategy
The Crescent Fire Protection District is a very small district and does not have the capacity to design an all-hazards mitigation program. The District chose four targeted projects that will enhance the overall resilience of their jurisdiction to wildfire impacts. The District will attempt to support efforts in public education for drought, earthquake, excessive rainfall, extreme wind, flood, and landslide.

Because the District is located inland it is not affected by tsunamis. Additionally, the District did not include extreme heat as a hazard since the area is rarely affected by high temperatures or days of extreme heat.

DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-16 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Table 5-10. Mitigation Action Status
Project #
Project
Responsible
Party Status
If incomplete, should action be included in
the 2025 HMP?
Yes/
No
If yes, describe
original problem and
any action updates
needed
Hazards of
Concern
addressed
CFPD-1 Where appropriate,
support retro-fitting,
purchase or relocation of
structures located in high
hazard areas, prioritizing
those structures that have
experienced repetitive
losses and/or are located
in high or medium ranked
hazard areas.

CFPD Do not wish to pursue
–
No We do not have
staffing for these
actions
N/A
CFPD-2 Actively participate in the
plan maintenance
protocols outlined in
Volume 1 of this hazard
mitigation plan.

CFPD No progress Yes Include in 2026
Mitigation Strategy
All hazards
CFPD-3 Purchase generators for
critical facilities and
infrastructure that lack
adequate back-up power
including Cooper and
Bertsch stations.

CFPD No progress- we do
not currently have
budget/funding for
generators to these 2
stations
No These facilities are
less used and less
staffed
N/A
CFPD-4 Continue to participate not
only in general mutual-aid
agreements, but also in
agreements with adjoining
jurisdictions for
cooperative response to all
hazards and disasters
CFPD In progress – as part
of auto and mutual aid
agreements, we
respond to any
request under said
agreements
Yes Include in 2026
Mitigation Strategy
All hazards
CFPD-5 Enhance Department
Webpage and/or
Facebook page to include
more comprehensive
disaster planning
resources
CFPD No progress – limited
staffing
No Limited staffing to
implement
N/A
CFPD-6 Develop Disaster
Operations Policies and
Procedures
CFPD In progress – as a City
Dept and Fire District
under operating
agreement – we
operate under the City
of Crescent City
Disaster Operations
policies
No Ongoing capability,
will continue to update
as necessary
N/A
CFPD-7 Support the County-wide
initiatives identified in
Volume 1 of the hazard
mitigation plan.

CFPD No progress – limited
staffing
No Limited staffing to
implement
DRAFT
N/A

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-17 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

5.9.5 Proposed Hazard Mitigation Actions for the HMP Update The District participated in the mitigation strategy workshop for this HMP to identify appropriate actions to include in a local hazard mitigation strategy. Its comprehensive consideration of all possible activities to address hazards of concern included review of the following FEMA documents:
• FEMA 551 “Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures” (March 2007) • FEMA “Mitigation Ideas—A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards” (January 2013) The action worksheets included at the end of this annex list the mitigation actions that the District would like to pursue in the future to reduce the effects of hazards. The actions are dependent upon available funding (grants and local match availability) and may be modified or omitted at any time based on the occurrence of new hazard events and changes in District priorities.

Table 5-11 indicates the range of proposed mitigation action categories. The four FEMA mitigation action categories are listed in the table to further demonstrate the wide range of activities and mitigation measures selected.

Table 5-11. Analysis of Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Category Actions That Address the Hazard, by Action Category
Hazard LPR SIP NSP EAP
Wildfire CFPD-1, CFPD-2 - CFPD-4 CFPD-3
Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)—These actions include government authorities, policies or codes that influence the way land and buildings are being developed and built.

Natural Systems Protection (NSP)—These are actions that minimize damage and losses and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems.

Volume 1 identifies four evaluation criteria for prioritizing the mitigation actions. To assist with rating each mitigation action as high, medium, or low priority, a numeric rank is assigned for each of the evaluation criteria. Table 5-12 provides a summary of the prioritization of all proposed mitigation actions for the HMP update.

Table 5-12. Summary of Prioritization of Actions
Project Name Cost Benefit Objectives Time Frame Score Priority Implement CWPP Medium High 3 1-5 years 7.6 High
Fire Prevention Education Low Low 3 1-5 years 6.6 Medium Mutual Aid Agreements Low Low 2 1-5 years 6.4 Medium
Maintain HMP Low Low 1 1-5 years 6.2 Medium
Note: Volume 1 of the HMP provides
DRAFT
guidance on prioritizing mitigation actions. Low (0-5), Medium (5-7), High (7-9).

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-18 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan

5.9.6 Mitigation Strategy
The following pages list the specific plan for each mitigation action, including the agency responsible for implementation, potential funding sources, and expected timeframe for completion.

DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-19 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CFPD-1: Maintain HMP
Lead Agency: Crescent Fire Protection District
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County
Hazards of Concern: ☒ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The District must stay engaged in the Hazard Mitigation Plan annual maintenance cycle and promotion of mitigation activities that could affect the District.

Description of the Solution: Actively participate in the plan maintenance protocols outlined in Volume 1 of this hazard mitigation plan.

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Staff Time
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 Years
Objectives Met: 1
Benefits: Long-term benefits of the action are difficult to quantify in the short term.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

N/A
Impact on Capabilities: N/A
Mitigation Category ☒ Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) ☐Structure and Infrastructure Project
(SIP)
☐ Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
☐ Education and Awareness
Programs (EAP)
Priority Medium
DRAFT

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
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CFPD-2: Mutual Aid Agreements
Lead Agency: Crescent Fire Protection District
Supporting Agencies: CAL FIRE
Hazards of Concern: ☐ Drought
☐ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☐ Excessive Rain
☐ Extreme Wind
☐ Flood
☐ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: Response to major wildfires can quickly exceed the firefighting capabilities of the District, requiring assistance from other jurisdictions.

Description of the Solution: Continue to participate not only in general mutual-aid agreements, but also in agreements with adjoining jurisdictions.

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Staff Time
Implementation Timeline: 1-5 Years
Objectives Met: 1,4
Benefits: Long-term benefits of the action are difficult to quantify in the short term.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This action supports the Safety and Security lifeline.

5. Crescent Fire Protection District
5-21 2025 Del Norte County Hazard Mitigation Plan
CFPD-3: Fire Prevention Education
Lead Agency: Crescent Fire Protection District
Supporting Agencies: Del Norte County, CAL FIRE, Listos California Hazards of Concern: ☒ Drought
☒ Earthquake
☐ Extreme Heat
☒ Excessive Rain
☒ Extreme Wind
☒ Flood
☒ Landslide
☐ Tsunami
☒ Wildfire
Description of the Problem: The wildfires in August 2023 exposed a gap in the public’s understanding of wildfire response and emergency/disaster preparedness.

Description of the Solution: To mitigate that gap, the District will seek to develop a public education and awareness program to include website updates, social media campaigns, and in person events to better equip residents on how to mitigate hazards and be prepared for emergencies.

Estimated Cost: Low
Potential Funding Sources: Staff Time, CAL FIRE Wildfire Prevention Grants Implementation Timeline: 1-5 Years
Objectives Met: 1,3,4
Benefits: Long-term benefits of the action are difficult to quantify in the short term.

Impact on Socially Vulnerable
Populations:

N/A
Impact on Future Development: N/A
Impact on Critical
Facilities/Lifelines:

This action supports the Safety and Security lifeline.

Crescent City City CouncilJune 15, 2026

Crescent City City Council
June 15, 2026