43 43 of 350
City of Laguna Beach, CA
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Report - All Streets
Sorted by Rank, PCI Order (0-100)
BranchID Sec ID Name From To Rank Surface Type Lanes Zone L W Area Insp. Date PCI % Load % Climate % Other Work History Type Work Date UPLAN 6370743 UPLAND RD COAST HY GLENNEYRE ST P AC 2 10 345 31 10,695 4/7/22 83 21 57 22 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 ASTER ST 6130346 ASTER ST COAST HY CYPRESS DR E AC 2 6 322 36 11,592 4/7/22 83 85 15 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 DEL M 6180543 DEL MAR AV BAJA ST KATELLA ST C AC 2 9 230 25 5,750 2/15/22 83 48 46 6 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 SKYLI 6130004 SKYLINE DR ATLANTIC WY EAST END C AC 2 12 169 36 6,089 4/7/22 83 52 46 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 FIRST 6370317 FIRST AV MAR VISTA AVE SE END P AC 0 1 409 30 12,270 4/8/22 83 51 47 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 DUNNE 6130502 DUNNEGAN DR NW END DUNNEGAN DR E AC 2 7 391 26 10,172 2/11/22 83 64 27 9 New Construction - AC 1/1/96 SEAVI 6180115 SEAVIEW ST WILSON ST TEMPLE TERR E AC 2 13 812 30 24,373 2/10/22 83 0 64 36 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 HIGH 6130482 HIGH DR ACACIA DR POPLAR ST C AC 2 6 1,223 32 39,136 2/11/22 83 33 39 28 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 LA VI 6130021 LA VISTA DR NW END MANZANITA DR E AC 2 12 407 22 8,949 4/8/22 83 13 58 29 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 OLIVE 6130277 OLIVE ST HIGH DR NE END E AC 2 6 283 30 8,500 2/11/22 83 0 32 68 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 RICO 6370473 RICO RD PASEO DEL SUR EAST END E AC 2 1 269 28 7,524 4/8/22 83 18 82 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 LAGUN AV 6180099 LAGUNA AV COAST HY EL PASEO ST P PCC 2 0 148 30 4,440 4/29/22 83 25 42 33 New Construction - PCC 6/1/99 LOMA 6130119 LOMA TERR THIRD ST LOMA TE E AC 2 4 185 26 4,811 2/17/22 83 0 80 20 New Construction - AC 1/1/81 NIDO 6370787 NIDO WY ALTA VISTA WY END E AC 2 8 715 26 16,172 4/8/22 83 67 13 20 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MAGNO 6130293 MAGNOLIA DR JASMINE ST ASTER ST E AC 2 6 640 30 19,200 2/11/22 83 36 29 35 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 EAGLE RK 6370365 EAGLE ROCK WY SCENIC DR MAR VISTA AV E AC 2 1 230 28 6,440 2/18/22 84 0 27 73 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 MYSTI LN 6130019 MYSTIC LN MYSTIC WY END P AC 0 12 177 18 3,186 4/8/22 84 10 86 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 NYES 6370619 NYES PL END (S) COAST HWY C AC 2 8 315 30 9,450 4/8/22 84 55 29 16 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 SOLAN 6370555 SOLANA WY COAST HY ALTA VISTA WY E AC 2 8 706 26 18,355 4/8/22 84 46 28 26 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 VISTA 6130015 VISTA LN VISTA LN EAST END E AC 2 12 242 22 5,319 4/8/22 84 24 72 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CERRT 6180177 CERRTOS DR TERRACE WY EAST END E AC 2 8 390 34 13,249 4/6/22 84 59 39 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 OCEAN VIEW 6370625 OCEAN VIEW VISTA DR DRIFTWOOD DR END P AC 0 1A 1,007 31 31,217 4/8/22 84 19 43 38 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 PALA 6370561 PALA WY ALTA VISTA WY AVENUE W E AC 1 8 363 14 5,083 4/8/22 84 0 86 14 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BALBOA AV 6370735 BALBOA AV KENDAL DR BOLSANA DR C AC 2 9 1,056 36 38,011 2/15/22 84 0 68 32 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 HOLLY 6130295 HOLLY DR CYPRESS DR MONTEREY DR E AC 2 6 625 36 22,500 2/11/22 84 0 34 66 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 MORNI 6180246 MORNINGSIDE DR LAVENDER LN BLUEBIRD CANYON DR E AC 2 11 1,353 32 43,296 2/16/22 84 64 36 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 ATLANTIC W 6130042 ATLANTIC WY CARIBBEAN WY END E AC 2 12 239 26 6,214 4/7/22 84 39 61 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 HIGH 6130373 HIGH DR MONTEREY DR JASMINE ST C AC 2 6 1,559 32 49,888 2/11/22 84 32 25 43 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 HIGHL WY 6370709 HIGHLAND WY HIGHLAND RD WY NYES PL E AC 2 8 475 22 10,441 4/29/22 84 60 29 11 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 HOLLY 6130347 HOLLY DR MONTEREY DR HIGH DR E AC 2 6 770 36 27,717 2/11/22 84 0 83 17 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 CAPIS 6180556 CAPISTRANO AV SAN JOSE ST BAJA ST E AC 2 9 230 25 6,440 2/15/22 84 44 56 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 DEL M 6180325 DEL MAR AV MIRAMAR ST NORIA ST C AC 2 9 230 25 5,750 2/15/22 84 72 28 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 HIGHL RD 6370708 HIGHLAND RD SOLANA WY END P AC 0 8 349 30 11,040 4/29/22 84 48 25 27 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MOUNT 6180456 MOUNTAIN RD CATALINA ST CRESS ST E AC 2 10 944 42 39,648 2/10/22 84 19 31 50 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 VICTO 7000000 VICTORIA DR HIGHLAND WY COAST HWY E AC 2 8 202 24 4,728 4/8/22 84 44 48 8 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 HAWTH 6130402 HAWTHORNE RD MONTEREY DR HIGH DR E AC 2 6 454 36 16,326 2/11/22 84 0 28 72 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 MYSTI 6130096 MYSTIC WY HILLEDGE DR VISTA LN E AC 2 12 1,359 36 48,924 4/8/22 84 52 46 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 PELIC 6370682 PELICAN ST GULL CL NORTH END E AC 2 9 376 24 9,022 2/18/22 84 40 41 19 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 SKYLI 6130048 SKYLINE DR CORONADO DR SAMOA WY C AC 2 12 1,809 38 68,742 4/7/22 84 38 62 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CAPIS 6180351 CAPISTRANO AV ACAPULCO ST SANTA ANA ST E AC 1 9 230 20 5,980 2/15/22 84 69 29 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 JUANI 6370694 JUANITA WY ALTA VISTA WY END E AC 2 8 578 26 15,028 2/15/22 84 0 26 74 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 SKYLI 6130053 SKYLINE DR VISTA LN CORONADO DR C AC 2 12 1,138 38 43,244 4/7/22 84 39 55 6 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 VIA C 6130698 VIA CAPRI MCKNIGHT DR SE END E AC 2 7 172 28 4,821 2/14/22 85 0 45 55 New Construction - AC 1/1/95 MADIS 6180206 MADISON PL BLUEBIRD CANYON DR END E AC 2 11 701 26 19,426 2/16/22 85 0 33 67 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 WILSO 6180123 WILSON ST LOMBARDY LN ANITA ST E AC 2 13 105 26 2,723 2/16/22 85 56 44 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 SANJOAQ 6370266 SAN JOAQUIN COAST HY HILLCREST DR P AC 0 7 620 26 16,120 2/14/22 85 0 35 65 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 CLIFF 6130758 CLIFF DR CIRCLE WY COAST HY P AC 0 7 408 32 13,056 2/15/22 85 44 31 25 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 ANITA ST 6180420 ANITA ST GAVIOTA DR COAST HY E AC 2 13 145 38 5,510 2/16/22 85 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CATAL 6180516 CATALINA ST BROOKS ST THALIA ST E AC 2 13 1,129 44 49,676 2/10/22 85 73 27 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/03 MORNI 6180250 MORNINGSIDE DR RANCHO LAGUNA RD STARLIT DR E AC 2 11 2,248 32 71,952 2/16/22 85 0 83 17 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 OCEAN FRO 6180509 OCEAN FRONT BROOKS ST END P AC 2 13 408 20 8,160 4/8/22 85 75 4 21 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 REGAT 6180251 REGATTA RD BLUEBIRD CANYON DR SW BLUEBIRD CANYON DR NE E AC 2 11 1,001 26 26,035 2/16/22 85 27 32 41 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 TERRY 6370647 TERRY RD HINKLE PL W END E AC 2 8 458 28 10,920 4/7/22 85 48 37 15 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 LA MI 6180540 LA MIRADA ST CORTEZ AV DEL MAR AV C AC 2 9 860 25 21,500 2/15/22 85 56 44 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 BAYVIEW PL 6180180 BAYVIEW PL TEMPLE HILLS DR NORTH END E AC 2 8 826 18 16,317 4/6/22 85 62 36 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 DARTM 6130558 DARTMOOR ST CAMDEN PL DUNNEGAN DR E AC 2 7 651 36 23,427 2/11/22 85 0 48 52 New Construction - AC 1/1/08 KATEL 6180554 KATELLA ST CAPISTRANO AV END (N) E AC 2 9 859 25 18,300 2/15/22 85 37 36 27 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 SUNSE 6130580 SUNSET AV LEDROIT ST SUNSET RIDGE DR @WYE E AC 2 7 424 30 12,720 2/14/22 85 49 32 19 New Construction - AC 1/1/92 DARTM 6130557 DARTMOOR ST HILLCREST DR CAMDEN PL E AC 2 7 715 36 25,746 2/11/22 86 0 28 72 New Construction - AC 1/1/85 HIGH 6130380 HIGH DR COAST HY MONTEREY DR C AC 2 6 1,100 30 33,000 2/14/22 86 0 68 32 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 HILLV 6130175 HILLVIEW DR HILLVIEW DR @WYE EAST END E AC 2 2 242 24 5,806 4/7/22 86 19 70 11 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/1/21 TERRY 6370655 TERRY RD SE END HINKLE PL E AC 2 8 311 28 8,704 4/7/22 86 16 28 56 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 VALID 6370479 VALIDO RD WEST ST TOTO LOMA LN E AC 2 1 176 28 4,936 4/8/22 86 0 85 15 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ANACAPA WY 6130051 ANACAPA WY WEST END SKYLINE DR E AC 2 12 1,616 20 32,311 4/7/22 86 43 37 20 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CRESC 6130730 CRESCENT BAY DR CRESCENT BAY DR @E WYE CRESCENT BAY DR @N WYE E AC 2 7 461 30 13,825 2/14/22 86 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/90 ASHTON DR 6370642 ASHTON DR ROUNSEVEL TE END E AC 2 8 294 18 4,235 4/7/22 86 20 76 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BALBOA AV 6370717 BALBOA AV NYES PL KENDAL DR C AC 2 9 493 36 17,748 2/15/22 86 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 GALEN 6180495 GALEN DR BLUEBIRD CANYON DR END E AC 2 10 493 24 11,833 2/16/22 86 0 31 69 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MARIL 6370628 MARILYN DR WESLEY DR OCEAN VIEW VISTA DR E AC 2 1A 741 32 23,709 4/8/22 86 62 38 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 WILSO 6180026 WILSON ST THALIA ST GRACELAND DR E AAC 2 3 250 40 10,015 2/10/22 86 42 17 41 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 CAPIS 6180553 CAPISTRANO AV BAJA ST KATELLA ST E AC 2 9 230 25 6,440 2/15/22 86 51 49 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CRESC 6130715 CRESCENT BAY DR EAST END CRESCENT BAY DR @S WYE E AC 2 7 276 30 8,274 2/14/22 86 0 51 49 New Construction - AC 1/1/87 DRIFT 6370612 DRIFTWOOD DR OCEAN VIEW VISTA DR NORTH END E AC 2 1A 544 26 14,132 4/8/22 86 0 39 61 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20
44 44 of 350
City of Laguna Beach, CA
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Report - All Streets
Sorted by Rank, PCI Order (0-100)
BranchID Sec ID Name From To Rank Surface Type Lanes Zone L W Area Insp. Date PCI % Load % Climate % Other Work History Type Work Date ARCH ST 6370747 ARCH ST GLENNEYRE ST END E AC 2 10 310 38 6,688 4/7/22 86 20 75 5 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 LAGUN 6130143 LAGUNA CYN RD FRONTAGE LAGUNA CANYON RD WOODLAND DR E AC 1 13 1,305 34 44,363 4/4/22 86 17 52 31 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 LEDRO 6130581 LEDROIT ST LEDROIT ST @WYE SE END E AC 2 7 129 46 5,939 2/14/22 86 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/07 MAR V 6370434 MAR VISTA AVE EAGLEROCK WY END E AC 2 1 340 26 8,840 4/8/22 86 80 17 3 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 BALBOA AV 6370764 BALBOA AV BOLSANA DR BARRACUDA WY C AC 2 9 303 36 10,913 2/15/22 87 40 60 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CHIQU 6130733 CHIQUITA ST CLIFF DR COAST HY E AC 2 7 513 32 16,404 2/17/22 87 0 29 71 New Construction - AC 1/1/07 GAINS 6180617 GAINSBOROUGH DR SW END GAINSBOROUGH WY E AC 2 11A 610 22 13,420 4/29/22 87 0 29 71 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/24 BLUEBIRD C 6180256 BLUEBIRD CANYON DR ORIOLE DR RANCHO LAGUNA RD C AC 2 11 1,518 38 32,717 2/16/22 87 53 47 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 POPLA 6130265 POPLAR ST CYPRESS DR MONTEREY DR E AC 2 6 492 38 18,703 2/14/22 87 51 21 28 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 LOS R 6180095 LOS ROBLES EL CAMINO DEL MAR EL BOSQUE E AAC 2 3 769 36 27,684 2/17/22 87 0 28 72 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 BROOKS ST 6370529 BROOKS ST PEDRO ST SE PEDRO ST NW E AC 2 1 1,250 24 30,000 2/18/22 87 0 30 70 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 SAMOA 6130005 SAMOA WY SKYLINE DR END E AC 2 12 293 22 6,446 4/7/22 87 0 96 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 HILLC 6130573 HILLCREST DR CHIQUITA ST SAN JOAQUIN ST C AC 2 7 853 34 29,002 2/14/22 87 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 PALM 6130177 PALM DR TEMPLE HILLS DR NE END E AC 2 8 367 30 11,019 4/6/22 87 46 35 19 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 ALTA VISTA 6370790 ALTA VISTA WAY PALA WY NIDO WY C AC 2 8 481 14 3,396 4/8/22 87 43 53 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 OCEAN VIEW 6370629 OCEAN VIEW VISTA DR MARILYN DR DRIFTWOOD DR P AC 2 1A 407 31 12,617 4/8/22 87 24 68 8 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 CLIFF 6130410 CLIFF DR JASMINE ST COAST HY P AC 0 7 893 42 37,506 2/17/22 87 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 HILLE 6130097 HILLEDGE DR BLUMONT ST MYSTIC WY E AC 2 12 879 28 24,612 4/8/22 87 27 69 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 LOCUS 6130312 LOCUST ST MONTEREY DR HIGH DR E AC 2 6 716 36 25,760 2/11/22 87 38 44 18 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 CAJON 6130506 CAJON ST HILLCREST DR NE END E AC 2 7 219 18 3,937 2/11/22 87 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/00 HILLC 6130584 HILLCREST DR LOUISE ST LEDROIT ST E AC 2 7 669 32 21,420 2/14/22 87 30 29 41 New Construction - AC 1/1/96 SUMMI 6180300 SUMMIT DR BLUEBIRD CANYON DR AGATE ST C AC 2 11 250 22 5,500 2/16/22 87 17 49 34 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 ENCIN 6370725 ENCINA WY FONTANA WY END E AC 1 8 145 20 2,900 2/15/22 88 0 49 51 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MONTE 6130396 MONTEREY ST LINDEN ST JASMINE ST C AC 1 6 1,280 30 38,400 2/14/22 88 0 46 54 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 NYES 6370669 NYES PL COAST HWY HIGHLAND WY C AC 2 8 215 30 6,450 4/8/22 88 36 64 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 VIEJO 6130577 VIEJO ST COAST HY HILLCREST DR E AC 2 7 620 32 19,840 2/14/22 88 42 58 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/85 WINDS 6130500 WINDSOR PL DUNNEGAN DR SE END E AC 2 7 173 28 4,844 2/11/22 88 0 45 55 New Construction - AC 1/1/82 ALTA VISTA 6370766 ALTA VISTA WAY FONTANA WY IRIS WY C AC 2 8 120 20 2,398 2/15/22 88 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 VIRGI 6370259 VIRGINIA WY NINTH AV SUNSET AV E AC 2 1 678 22 14,916 2/18/22 88 0 50 50 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ALTA VISTA 6370783 ALTA VISTA WAY HIGHLAND RD GLENNEYRE ST C AC 2 8 110 18 1,975 4/8/22 88 43 57 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 ARCH ST 6370742 ARCH ST GLENNEYRE ST CATALINA ST C AC 2 10 120 38 4,560 4/7/22 88 41 51 8 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 HILLC 6130656 HILLCREST DR PINECREST DR CHIQUITA ST C AC 2 7 707 34 24,038 2/14/22 88 0 52 48 New Construction - AC 1/1/90 SKYLI 6130043 SKYLINE DR SAMOA WY PACIFIC AV C AC 2 12 863 36 31,074 4/7/22 88 24 74 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CLIFF 6130741 CLIFF DR CLIFF DR COAST HY P AC 2 7 308 30 9,240 2/17/22 88 0 58 42 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 OSGOO 6180627 OSGOOD CT CATALINA ST NE END E AC 1 10 275 18 4,950 4/29/22 88 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 PACVISTA 6180632 PACIFIC VISTA GAINSBOROUGH DR END P AC 2 9 485 18 8,730 4/29/22 88 0 32 68 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/24 CORTE 6180559 CORTEZ AV BAJA ST KATELLA ST E AC 2 9 230 22 4,268 2/15/22 88 44 56 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 DEL M 6180340 DEL MAR AV SANTA ANA ST TIA JUANA ST C AC 2 9 230 36 8,280 2/15/22 88 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 REMBR 6180286 REMBRANDT DR VAN DYKE DR SUMMIT DR E AC 2 11 67 24 1,598 4/29/22 88 59 41 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 RANCHO LAG 6180260 RANCHO LAGUNA RD BLUEBIRD CANYON DR MORNINGSIDE DR P AC 2 11 575 31 17,825 2/16/22 88 19 81 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 POPLA 6130394 POPLAR ST MONTEREY DR HIGH DR E AC 2 6 715 38 27,169 2/11/22 88 0 54 46 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 SUMMI 6180287 SUMMIT DR PEARL ST DIAMOND ST C AC 2 11 576 32 18,424 2/16/22 88 49 51 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CRESC 6130705 CRESCENT BAY DR COAST HY CRESCENT BAY DR E AC 2 7 718 28 20,104 2/14/22 88 0 68 32 New Construction - AC 1/1/89 CRESS 6180512 CRESS ST BRANGWYN WY BLUEBIRD CANYON DR C AC 2 13 1,086 40 43,440 2/16/22 88 34 47 19 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 DORN 6130180 DORN CT SOUTH END TEMPLE HILLS DR E AC 2 2 558 28 15,634 4/6/22 88 0 16 84 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 DRIFT 6370609 DRIFTWOOD DR WESLEY DR OCEAN VIEW VISTA DR E AC 2 1A 628 26 16,315 4/8/22 88 0 45 55 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 DUMON 6370668 DUMOND DR MARION WY VICTORIA DR E AC 2 8 344 34 11,683 4/29/22 88 60 7 33 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MARIN 6130747 MARINE DR CLIFF DR CLIFF DR E AC 2 7 795 34 27,030 4/7/22 88 49 24 27 New Construction - AC 1/1/02 ORIOL 6180253 ORIOLE DR BLUEBIRD CANYON DR FLAMIINGO RD E AC 2 11 1,179 32 37,728 2/16/22 89 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CIRCL 6130766 CIRCLE WY CIRCLE WY @S WYE CIRCLE WY @N WYE E AC 1 7 293 28 8,208 2/15/22 89 0 34 66 New Construction - AC 1/1/85 TIA J 6180343 TIA JUANA ST CAPISTRANO AV DEL MAR AV E AC 2 9 430 20 8,600 2/15/22 89 0 36 64 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 VIRGI 6370400 VIRGINIA WY THIRD AV EAGLEROCK WY E AC 2 1 600 20 12,000 2/18/22 89 0 42 58 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 BRANGWYM W 6180513 BRANGWYM WY CRESS ST BROOKS ST E AC 2 13 371 34 12,605 4/29/22 89 84 16 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 CARIB 6130038 CARIBBEAN WY CORAL DR ATLANTIC WY E AC 2 12 1,144 34 38,896 4/7/22 89 25 75 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CATAL 6180658 CATALINA ST OSGOOD CT BLUEBIRD CANYON DR E AC 2 10 1,500 34 51,000 2/10/22 89 0 44 56 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 CENTE 6180696 CENTER ST CARMELITA ST PEARL ST E AC 2 10 545 30 16,344 2/10/22 89 0 36 64 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 DEL M 6180338 DEL MAR AV ORO ST SANTA ANA ST C AC 2 9 920 36 33,120 2/15/22 89 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 BLUEBIRD C 6180218 BLUEBIRD CANYON DR KELLER WY BLUEBIRD CANYON / REGATTA RD C AC 2 11 378 28 6,047 2/16/22 89 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 VICTO 6370573 VICTORIA DR COAST HWY SUNSET TE E AC 2 8 1,028 26 26,738 4/29/22 89 34 22 44 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CARIB 6130040 CARIBBEAN WY ATLANTIC WY TAHITI AV E AC 2 12 508 34 17,273 4/7/22 89 24 73 3 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 SHADO 6180462 SHADOW LN CATALINA ST CARMELITA ST E AC 2 10 499 44 21,956 2/10/22 89 48 23 29 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 TIA J 6180368 TIA JUANA ST END CORTEZ AV E AC 2 9 152 20 3,040 2/15/22 89 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 BERN DR 6130214 BERN DR PARK AV SW PARK AV NE E AC 2 2 1,833 28 51,318 4/5/22 89 0 98 2 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 SKYLI 6130041 SKYLINE DR PACIFIC AV ATLANTIC WY C AC 2 12 1,033 34 35,116 4/7/22 89 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 TAHIT 6130039 TAHITI AV CORAL DR CARIBBEAN WY E AC 2 12 1,551 28 43,419 4/7/22 89 0 93 7 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 CENTE 6180665 CENTER ST CATALINA ST CARMELITA ST E AC 2 10 363 48 17,424 2/10/22 89 0 30 70 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 FONTA 6370767 FONTANA WY ALTA VISTA WY ENCINA WY E AC 2 8 187 24 4,486 2/15/22 89 0 30 70 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 GAINS 6180709 GAINSBOROUGH DR GAINSBOROUGH PL DIAMOND ST E AC 2 11A 520 22 11,431 4/29/22 89 0 41 59 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/24 BEVERLY ST 6130461 BEVERLY ST COAST HY HILLCREST DR E AC 2 7 602 30 18,068 2/14/22 89 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 DIAMO 6180710 DIAMOND ST CRESTVIEW DR END C AC 2 11A 1,181 34 40,154 2/11/22 89 43 32 25 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/24 LA MI 6180330 LA MIRADA ST DEL MAR AV ENSENADA AV C AC 2 9 430 25 12,450 2/15/22 89 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 OCEAN 6180644 OCEAN WY PEARL ST DIAMOND ST E AC 2 10 750 36 27,015 2/17/22 89 0 44 56 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 WEST 6370363 WEST ST MONTEREY ST VALIDO RD E AC 2 1 1,065 28 29,820 2/18/22 89 0 57 43 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19
45 45 of 350
City of Laguna Beach, CA
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Report - All Streets
Sorted by Rank, PCI Order (0-100)
BranchID Sec ID Name From To Rank Surface Type Lanes Zone L W Area Insp. Date PCI % Load % Climate % Other Work History Type Work Date ALTA VISTA 6370718 ALTA VISTA WAY LOMITA WY KILO WY C AC 2 8 807 20 16,140 4/8/22 89 0 70 30 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BLUMONT ST 6130094 BLUMONT ST PARK AV END E AC 2 12 823 32 26,336 4/8/22 89 21 41 38 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 SHORT 6180073 SHORT ST LEGION ST EL CAMINO DEL MAR E AAC 2 3 402 40 16,082 4/4/22 89 61 39 0 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 SUMMI 6180188 SUMMIT DR SW END SUMMIT WY E AC 2 11 258 22 5,665 2/16/22 89 68 28 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 TEMPL 6180274 TEMPLE HILLS DR DUNNING DR BAYVIEW PL C AC 2 8 1,290 26 33,540 4/6/22 89 30 65 5 New Construction - AC 1/1/92 ASTER ST 6130354 ASTER ST CYPRESS DR MONTEREY DR E AC 2 6 620 36 22,320 2/11/22 90 0 54 46 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 BONVUE TE 6130278 BONVUE TE HIGH DR NORTH END E AC 2 6 456 24 10,947 4/5/22 90 24 37 39 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 CEDAR 6130379 CEDAR WY HIGH DR JASMINE ST E AC 2 6 1,094 28 30,632 4/5/22 90 22 45 33 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 CLIFF 6130443 CLIFF DR BEVERLY ST HIGH DR P AC 2 7 839 42 35,238 2/17/22 90 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 DUMON 6370627 DUMOND DR OCEAN FRONT WARDS TE E AC 2 8 190 12 2,280 4/29/22 90 0 6 94 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 OSGOO 6180626 OSGOOD CT SW END CATALINA ST E AC 1 10 175 18 3,150 4/29/22 90 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 SECON 6370386 SECOND AV COAST HY VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 200 36 7,201 2/18/22 90 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 HOLLY 6370483 HOLLY DR ALTA LOMA DR NORTH END E AC 2 1 1,565 26 40,686 2/18/22 90 41 43 16 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 PARK 6130215 PARK AV BERN DR S ALTA LAGUNA BLVD C AC 2 2 598 64 38,272 4/5/22 90 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 GRIFF WY 6180005 GRIFFITH WY WENDT TERR END P AAC 0 3 747 31 23,157 4/29/22 90 56 19 25 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 MORNI 6180248 MORNINGSIDE DR STARLIT DR LAVENDER LN E AC 2 11 1,327 32 42,464 2/16/22 90 0 60 40 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 ENSEN 6180369 ENSENADA AV LA MIRADA ST NORIA ST E AC 2 9 440 20 8,800 2/15/22 90 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 HILLC 6130587 HILLCREST DR NW END LOUISE ST E AC 2 7 148 32 4,748 2/14/22 90 40 40 20 New Construction - AC 1/1/02 LA BR 6130736 LA BREA ST CLIFF DR COAST HY E AC 2 7 439 28 12,279 2/17/22 90 0 91 9 New Construction - AC 1/1/90 LEDRO 6130510 LEDROIT ST LEDROIT ST @WYE NE END E AC 2 7 38 60 2,296 4/7/22 90 0 89 11 New Construction - AC 1/1/82 SANTA 6180471 SANTA CRUZ ST CALLIOPE ST MOUNTAIN RD P AC 2 10 434 28 12,152 2/10/22 90 55 45 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 LEDRO L 6130509 LEDROIT LN SUNSET RIDGE DR END P AC 0 7 185 26 4,810 2/14/22 90 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 ST AN 6180147 ST ANNS DR BROWNCROFT RD PARK AV E AAC 2 3 838 36 30,183 2/17/22 90 0 96 4 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 BEACH ST 6130267 BEACH ST LOWER CLIFF DR BROADWAY C AC 0 6 282 40 11,280 4/7/22 90 48 52 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 BERN C 6130170 BERN CT PARK AV END P AC 2 2 245 22 5,390 4/5/22 90 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 DUNNE 6130559 DUNNEGAN DR DARTMOOR ST WINDSOR PL E AC 2 7 731 26 19,006 2/11/22 90 0 41 59 New Construction - AC 1/1/84 EL CA 6180094 EL CAMINO DEL MAR LOS ROBLES SHORT ST E AAC 2 3 730 34 24,820 2/17/22 90 51 49 0 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 MAR V 6370366 MAR VISTA AVE EAGLEROCK WY THIRD AV E AC 2 1 614 26 15,964 2/18/22 90 51 49 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 MCAUL 6370722 MCAULAY PL VICTORIA DR COAST HY E AC 2 8 454 28 12,714 4/29/22 90 0 24 76 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MONTE 6370478 MONTEREY ST WEST ST BROOKS ST E AC 2 1 594 28 16,632 2/18/22 90 0 78 22 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 WOODL 6130138 WOODLAND DR LAGUNA CANYON RD VICTORIA WK E AC 2 13 741 38 28,158 4/4/22 90 29 66 5 New Construction - AC 1/1/03 ALTA VISTA 6370768 ALTA VISTA WAY KILO WY FONTANA WY C AC 2 8 432 20 6,251 2/15/22 90 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 LINDE 6130276 LINDEN ST HIGH DR NORTH END E AC 2 6 516 28 7,532 2/11/22 90 0 61 39 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 RADCL 6180701 RADCLIFF CT CATALINA ST N END E AC 1 10 110 22 2,420 2/11/22 90 0 68 32 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 AGATE ST 6180653 AGATE ST GLENNEYRE ST CATALINA ST E AC 2 10 714 30 10,493 2/10/22 90 0 65 35 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 LOMBA 6180112 LOMBARDY LN WILSON ST TEMPLE TE E AC 2 13 627 26 16,290 2/16/22 90 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 VISTA 6130024 VISTA LN WEST END SKYLINE DR E AC 2 12 240 20 4,790 4/7/22 90 29 51 20 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 WEYMO 6130504 WEYMOUTH PL HILLCREST DR EAST END E AC 2 7 844 24 20,255 2/11/22 90 0 65 35 New Construction - AC 1/1/90 BROOKS ST 6180514 BROOKS ST CATALINA ST TEMPLE TERR E AC 2 13 1,226 58 71,108 2/10/22 90 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/08 HAROL 6130282 HAROLD DR WEST END POPLAR ST E AC 2 6 729 34 24,779 2/11/22 90 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 NYES 6370621 NYES PL HIGHLAND RD BALBOA AV C AC 2 8 3,918 38 135,560 2/15/22 90 0 69 31 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 PEARL 6180641 PEARL ST OCEAN WY COAST HY E AC 2 10 260 34 8,840 4/7/22 90 38 57 5 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 PINEC 6130660 PINECREST DR HILLCREST DR END E AC 2 7 907 24 21,768 2/11/22 90 0 51 49 New Construction - AC 1/1/78 SANTA ANA 7000006 SANTA ANA ST DEL MAR AV CORTEZ AVE E AC 0 9 830 20 16,600 2/15/22 90 38 41 21 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 SUNSE 6130693 SUNSET AV SUNSET RIDGE DR @WYE SE END E AC 2 7 342 30 10,262 2/14/22 90 0 74 26 New Construction - AC 1/1/95 TEMPL 6180276 TEMPLE HILLS DR THALIA ST DUNNING DR C AC 2 8 1,332 24 31,961 4/6/22 90 27 67 6 New Construction - AC 1/1/92 THROU 6180104 THROUGH ST PARK AV LEGION ST E AAC 2 3 476 34 16,168 2/17/22 90 0 56 44 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 ALTA LAGUN 6130196 ALTA LAGUNA BLVD CHILLON WY TEMPLE HILLS DR P AC 0 2 1,255 54 67,770 4/6/22 91 0 56 44 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BERNARD CT 6130167 BERNARD CT ZELL DR END E AC 2 2 524 22 11,537 4/6/22 91 0 94 6 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 CORON 6130050 CORONADO DR SKYLINE DR END P AC 2 12 924 26 24,024 4/7/22 91 22 31 47 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 MONTE 6370537 MONTEREY ST BROOKS ST S BROOKS ST N E AC 1 1 1,744 38 66,273 2/18/22 91 0 66 34 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 GAINS 6180636 GAINSBOROUGH DR GAINSBOROUGH PL GAINSBOROUGH WY E AC 2 11A 186 32 5,948 4/29/22 91 0 43 57 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 HOLLY 6370490 HOLLY DR ALTA LOMA DR OCEAN VIEW ST E AC 2 1 667 32 21,356 2/18/22 91 0 56 44 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 LOMIT 6370697 LOMITA WY ALTA VISTA WY END E AC 2 8 459 20 9,189 4/8/22 91 29 49 22 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MEADO 6180254 MEADOWLARK DR ORIOLE DR END E AC 2 11 720 24 17,280 2/16/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 VIACOR 6130716 VIA CORSICA MCKNIGHT SE END P AC 0 7 234 30 7,020 2/14/22 91 0 86 14 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 ALTA VISTA 6370696 ALTA VISTA WAY NIDO WY LOMITA WY C AC 2 8 646 20 12,924 4/8/22 91 0 78 22 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BLUEBIRD C 6180220 BLUEBIRD CANYON DR EASTMAN WY KELLER WY C AC 2 11 622 32 7,642 2/16/22 91 56 44 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CANYO 6130031 CANYON ACRES DR LEWIS LN EAST END E AC 2 13 2,580 30 46,170 4/4/22 91 25 44 31 New Construction - AC 1/1/85 CATAL 6180702 CATALINA ST MOSS ST OSGOOD CT E AC 2 10 510 38 19,380 2/10/22 91 0 67 33 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CLIFF 6130744 CLIFF DR CIRCLE WY BEVERLY ST P AC 0 7 1,540 42 64,680 2/17/22 91 0 74 26 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 LOMBA 6180122 LOMBARDY LN ANITA ST WILSON ST E AC 2 13 579 28 16,210 2/16/22 91 0 65 35 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 CHILL 6130221 CHILLON WY ALTA LAGUNA BL CATEAU WY E AC 2 2 965 36 34,729 4/6/22 91 0 50 50 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 THIRD 6370316 THIRD AV MAR VISTA AV SE END E AC 2 1 306 28 8,558 4/8/22 91 25 42 33 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 BROOKS ST 6370531 BROOKS ST MONTEREY ST PEDRO ST E AC 2 1 491 28 13,740 2/18/22 91 0 72 28 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 SUNSE 6130676 SUNSET AV NW END LEDROIT LN E AC 2 7 158 26 4,117 2/14/22 91 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/81 GAINS PL 6180631 GAINSBOURGOUGH PL GAINSBOROUGH DR END P AC 2 11A 237 24 5,688 4/29/22 91 46 43 11 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/24 THIRD 6370371 THIRD AV SCENIC DR MAR VISTA AV E AC 2 1 230 40 9,207 2/18/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ZURIC 6130166 ZURICH CT SW END ZELL DR E AC 2 2 261 22 5,748 4/6/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BALBOA AV 6180318 BALBOA AV BARRACUDA WY CORTEZ AV C AC 2 9 502 36 14,764 2/15/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 FOURT 6370395 FOURTH AV COAST HY VIRGINIA WY C AC 2 1 200 38 7,602 2/18/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 CRESC 6130714 CRESCENT BAY DR CRESCENT BAY DR @E WYE EAST END E AC 2 7 182 22 4,015 2/15/22 91 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 MEADO LN 6180170 MEADOWLARK LN MEADOWLARK DR END P AC 2 11 532 32 18,224 2/16/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17
46 46 of 350
City of Laguna Beach, CA
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Report - All Streets
Sorted by Rank, PCI Order (0-100)
BranchID Sec ID Name From To Rank Surface Type Lanes Zone L W Area Insp. Date PCI % Load % Climate % Other Work History Type Work Date MYRTL 6130300 MYRTLE ST MONTEREY DR HIGH DR E AC 2 6 643 36 23,149 2/11/22 91 0 47 53 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 NESTA 6130163 NESTALL RD MOUNTAIN VIEW DR END E AC 2 2 757 32 24,214 4/6/22 91 30 70 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 TEMPL 6130246 TEMPLE HILLS DR PALM DR SAN REMO DR C AC 2 2 989 30 29,662 4/6/22 91 29 66 5 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 WESLE 6370091 WESLEY DR MARILYN DR DRIFTWOOD DR E AC 2 1A 255 36 9,180 4/8/22 91 27 73 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 DEL M 6180544 DEL MAR AV END BAJA ST C AC 2 9 230 25 5,725 2/15/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 PARK 6130244 PARK AV TAHITI AV BERN DR S C AC 2 2 1,993 48 95,664 4/5/22 91 29 71 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 WINDS 6130501 WINDSOR PL NW END DUNNEGAN DR E AC 2 7 337 24 8,083 4/7/22 91 26 32 42 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 ALTA LAGUN 6130223 ALTA LAGUNA BLVD TEMPLE HILLS DR CHILLON WY P AC 2 2 610 38 23,180 4/6/22 91 0 93 7 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BRIDGE DR 6130176 BRIDGE DR HILLVIEW DR END E AC 2 2 406 24 9,738 4/7/22 91 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 LOCUS 6130284 LOCUST ST CYPRESS DR MONTEREY DR E AC 2 6 625 36 22,500 2/11/22 91 39 61 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 OCEAN 6180621 OCEAN WY AGATE ST PEARL ST E AC 2 10 354 36 12,730 2/17/22 91 0 48 52 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CARME 6180467 CARMELITA ST CALLIOPE ST CRESS ST E AC 2 10 673 28 18,844 2/10/22 92 0 63 37 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MIRAM 6180344 MIRAMAR ST DEL MAR AV END (N) E AC 2 9 859 25 10,750 2/15/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 SKYLI 6130108 SKYLINE DR PARK AV MANZANITA DR C AC 2 12 249 26 6,478 4/7/22 92 38 62 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 TIA J 6180356 TIA JUANA ST CORTEZ AV CAPISTRANO AV E AC 2 9 430 20 8,600 2/15/22 92 0 52 48 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 ZELL 6130218 ZELL DR TEMPLE HILLS DR CATEAU WY E AC 2 2 1,560 32 49,920 4/6/22 92 0 66 34 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 AGATE ST 6180613 AGATE ST NE END CATALINA ST E AC 2 10 845 36 30,420 2/10/22 92 0 88 12 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 ALTA LAGUN 6130190 ALTA LAGUNA BLVD CRESTA WY PARK AV P AC 4 2 1,297 54 70,038 4/6/22 92 29 66 5 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BLUEBIRD C 6180216 BLUEBIRD CANYON DR HALL PL REGATTA RD C AC 2 11 1,188 26 30,883 2/16/22 92 0 47 53 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 DEL M 6180331 DEL MAR AV LA MIRADA ST MIRAMAR ST C AC 2 9 230 25 5,750 2/15/22 92 0 87 13 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 MAR V 6370370 MAR VISTA AVE SUNSET AV THIRD AV E AC 2 1 674 26 17,519 2/18/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 OCEAN 6180646 OCEAN WY RUBY ST MOSS ST E AC 2 10 350 36 12,606 2/17/22 92 0 52 48 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BOLSA 6370690 BOLSANA WAY END LORETTA DR E AC 2 9 549 20 12,230 4/29/22 92 0 15 85 New Construction - AC 1/1/09 CANYO 6130135 CANYON ACRES DR LAGUNA CANYON RD LEWELLYN DR E AC 2 13 953 38 36,214 4/4/22 92 34 47 19 New Construction - AC 1/1/93 LA MI 6180197 LA MIRADA ST ENSENADA AV N END E AC 2 9 874 25 20,163 2/16/22 92 0 75 25 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 REGAT 6180249 REGATTA RD BLUEBIRD CANYON DR MORNINGSIDE DR E AC 2 11 589 24 14,138 2/16/22 92 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 ALTA LAGUN 6130182 ALTA LAGUNA BLVD RIDGE DR END/TRAIL HEAD P AC 2 2 882 40 35,280 4/5/22 92 33 67 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 ALTA VISTA 6370560 ALTA VISTA WAY QUEDA WY PALA WY C AC 2 8 242 16 3,871 4/8/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 AVALON AV 6180030 AVALON AV ANITA ST SEAVIEW ST E AC 2 13 155 40 6,200 2/10/22 92 0 67 33 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 TYROL 6130209 TYROL DR MOUNTAIN VIEW DR RIDGE DR E AC 2 2 903 36 32,508 4/5/22 92 32 59 9 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BROOKS ST 6370551 BROOKS ST BROOKS ST N PEDRO ST E AC 2 1 520 24 12,487 2/18/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 PASEO 6370474 PASEO DEL SUR RICO RD EAST END E AC 2 1 515 28 14,432 4/8/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ST AN 6180140 ST ANNS DR WILSON ST BROWNCROFT RD E AAC 2 3 541 34 18,394 2/17/22 92 0 47 53 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 TEMPL 6130251 TEMPLE HILLS DR BAYVIEW PL PALM DR C AC 2 2 1,091 36 39,276 4/6/22 92 33 67 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 WARDS 6370701 WARDS TE NW END DUMOND DR E AC 2 8 271 24 6,507 4/29/22 92 0 7 93 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 ALTA LAGUN 6130194 ALTA LAGUNA BLVD TEMPLE HILLS DR CRESTA WY P AC 4 2 728 54 39,312 4/6/22 92 32 68 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BLUEBIRD C 6180505 BLUEBIRD CANYON DR CARMALITA ST SUMMIT DR C AC 2 10 680 38 15,450 2/10/22 92 0 42 58 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 CIRCL 6130763 CIRCLE WY CIRCLE WY @E WYE CLIFF DR E AC 1 7 77 38 2,907 2/15/22 92 0 45 55 New Construction - AC 1/1/82 NORIA 6180326 NORIA ST ENSENADA AV END E AC 2 9 1,023 26 27,534 2/15/22 92 0 41 59 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 OCEAN 6180652 OCEAN WY DIAMOND ST RUBY ST E AC 2 10 347 26 9,015 2/17/22 92 0 56 44 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 PALME 6180409 PALMER PL CATALINA ST END E AC 2 10 225 32 7,200 2/10/22 92 0 42 58 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 ARROYO DR 6130029 ARROYO DR CANYON ACRES DR NE END E AC 2 13 925 30 27,765 4/4/22 92 29 71 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/81 LINDE 6130335 LINDEN ST CYPRESS DR HIGH DR P AC 2 6 772 28 21,616 2/11/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 CAMDE 6130503 CAMDEN PL NW END DARTMOOR ST E AC 2 7 441 28 12,350 2/11/22 92 0 58 42 New Construction - AC 1/1/89 CRESS 6180453 CRESS ST CATALINA ST BRANGWYM WY C AC 2 13 771 40 30,840 2/10/22 92 0 69 31 New Construction - AC 1/1/05 FIFTH 6370379 FIFTH AV COAST HY VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 200 38 7,602 2/18/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 MYRTL 6130381 MYRTLE ST COAST HY CYPRESS DR E AC 2 6 330 34 11,220 2/11/22 92 0 43 57 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 MYRTL 6130382 MYRTLE ST CLIFF DR COAST HY E AC 2 7 340 30 10,197 4/5/22 92 37 63 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/94 OCEAN VIEW 6370610 OCEAN VIEW VISTA DR MARILYN DR END P AC 2 1A 360 31 11,160 4/8/22 92 26 74 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 RIMCR 6130173 RIMCREST CL RIDGE DR NW END E AC 2 2 349 28 9,772 4/5/22 92 0 93 7 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 DIAMO 6180619 DIAMOND ST S END SUMMIT DR C AC 2 11 1,022 20 20,447 2/16/22 92 0 85 15 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 OAK S 6180126 OAK ST CATALINA ST WILSON ST E AC 2 13 805 38 30,586 2/10/22 92 0 94 6 New Construction - AC 1/1/02 SUNSE 6370358 SUNSET AV MAR VISTA AV EIGHTH AV E AC 0 1 1,180 30 35,400 2/18/22 92 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 CEANO 6370475 CEANOTHUS DR ALTA LOMA DR NW END E AC 4 1 1,670 28 46,751 2/18/22 93 0 54 46 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 FAIRV 6130550 FAIRVIEW ST COAST HY HILLCREST DR E AC 2 7 620 30 18,600 2/14/22 93 0 94 6 New Construction - AC 1/1/87 GOFF 6180107 GOFF ST LOS OLIVOS END E AAC 2 3 387 28 10,848 4/6/22 93 33 61 6 Overlay - AC Structural 4/1/22 SCENI 6370393 SCENIC DR FIFTH AV FOURTH AV E AC 2 1 354 28 9,922 2/18/22 93 0 93 7 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 SEAVI 6180120 SEAVIEW ST CATALINA ST AVALON AV E AC 2 13 303 30 9,105 2/16/22 93 0 86 14 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 BLUEBIRD C 6180497 BLUEBIRD CANYON DR COAST HY CARMALITA ST C AC 2 10 1,026 38 31,000 2/10/22 93 0 77 23 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 NINTH 6370258 NINTH AV VIRGINIA WY LUPIN PL E AC 2 1 579 24 13,896 2/18/22 93 0 61 39 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 SANTA 6180694 SANTA CRUZ ST PEARL ST BLUEBIRD CANYON DR E AC 2 10 620 20 12,400 2/10/22 93 0 60 40 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 ZELL 6130195 ZELL DR TEMPLE HILLS DR ALTA LAGUNA BL E AC 2 2 683 38 25,973 4/6/22 93 0 83 17 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 CATAL 6370415 CATALINA ST MONTEREY ST WEST ST E AC 2 1 650 30 19,489 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 CHILL 6130226 CHILLON WY ZELL DR CATEAU WY E AC 2 2 543 36 19,534 4/6/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 FIFTH 6370381 FIFTH AV VIRGINIA WY SCENIC DR E AC 2 1 343 38 13,034 2/18/22 93 0 73 27 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 KENDA 6370734 KENDAL DR BALBOA AVE END E AC 2 9 628 28 21,546 2/18/22 93 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 REED 6180058 REED ST PARK AV LEGION ST E AAC 2 3 253 30 7,600 2/17/22 93 0 73 27 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 SECON 6370403 SECOND AV VIRGINIA WY SCENIC DR E AC 2 1 900 24 21,600 2/18/22 93 0 79 21 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ACAPULCO 6180364 ACAPULCO ST ALISOS AV CORTEZ AV E AC 2 9 362 20 7,248 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 ALTA VISTA 6370726 ALTA VISTA WAY IRIS WY ENCINA WY C AC 2 8 86 20 1,725 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BAJA ST 6180574 BAJA ST SUMMIT DR S END P AC 2 9 227 30 6,810 2/16/22 93 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 CAPIS 6180549 CAPISTRANO AV LA MIRADA ST MIRAMAR ST E AC 2 9 230 25 5,750 2/15/22 93 37 63 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 DEL M 6180329 DEL MAR AV KATELLA ST LA MIRADA ST C AC 2 9 230 25 5,750 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14
47 47 of 350
City of Laguna Beach, CA
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Report - All Streets
Sorted by Rank, PCI Order (0-100)
BranchID Sec ID Name From To Rank Surface Type Lanes Zone L W Area Insp. Date PCI % Load % Climate % Other Work History Type Work Date DEL M 6180342 DEL MAR AV TIA JUANA ST BALBOA ST C AC 2 9 242 36 8,727 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 EL BO 6180151 EL BOSQUE CATALINA ST EL BOSQUE @WYE E AAC 2 3 796 34 27,064 2/17/22 93 0 100 0 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 GULL 6370731 GULL CL DAVIS WY MARLIN DR E AC 2 9 266 25 7,448 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 HEATH 6130505 HEATHER PL HILLCREST DR EAST END E AC 2 7 553 24 13,263 2/11/22 93 0 85 15 New Construction - AC 1/1/90 JASMI 6130289 JASMINE ST CYPRESS DR MONTEREY DR E AC 2 6 625 38 23,750 2/11/22 93 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 LAVEN 6180164 LAVENDER LN MORNINGSIDE DR NE END E AC 2 11 172 36 6,210 2/16/22 93 0 70 30 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MERMA 6130059 MERMAID ST THIRD ST LOMA TERR E AC 2 4 187 28 5,250 2/17/22 93 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/82 MOUNT 6180489 MOUNTAIN RD S END COAST HY E AC 2 10 190 36 6,840 2/16/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MYSTI V 6130013 MYSTIC VIEW MYSTIC WY END P AC 0 12 1,144 26 29,744 4/8/22 93 0 62 38 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 RIDGE 6130242 RIDGE DR ALTA LAGUNA BLVD TYROL DR E AC 2 2 535 34 18,190 4/5/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 SECON ST 6130064 SECOND ST MERMAID ST FOREST AV P AC 2 4 481 42 20,202 2/17/22 93 15 62 23 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 SUNSE 6370357 SUNSET AV EIGHTH AV VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 1,220 26 31,720 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 THIRD 6370401 THIRD AV VIRGINIA WY SCENIC DR E AC 2 1 715 32 22,880 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 WAVE 6130555 WAVE ST COAST HY HILLCREST DR E AC 2 7 620 32 19,840 2/14/22 93 0 78 22 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 WILSO 6180124 WILSON ST OAK ST LOMBARDY LN E AC 2 13 209 22 4,608 2/16/22 93 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 ALTA VISTA 6370759 ALTA VISTA WAY CORONA WY BONITA WY C AC 2 8 176 20 3,518 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CENTE 6180668 CENTER ST COAST HY CATALINA ST E AC 2 10 675 48 32,400 2/11/22 93 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 DARTM 6130536 DARTMOOR ST DUNNEGAN DR EAST END E AC 2 7 142 36 5,111 2/11/22 93 0 59 41 New Construction - AC 1/1/03 FAYET 6130514 FAYETTE PL PANORAMA DR EAST END E AC 2 7 227 26 5,913 2/14/22 93 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/84 FONTA 6370757 FONTANA WY CORONA WY BONITA WY E AC 2 8 121 30 3,643 2/15/22 93 0 59 41 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 PACIF 6130045 PACIFIC AV SKYLINE DR CORAL DR E AC 2 12 719 28 20,132 4/7/22 93 35 65 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/24 RUBY PL 6180700 RUBY PL RUBY ST PRIVATE DR P AC 0 10 175 31 5,425 2/11/22 93 0 59 41 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 SANTA 6180473 SANTA CRUZ ST BLUEBIRD CANYON DR END E AC 2 10 375 28 10,500 2/10/22 93 0 44 56 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 ALEXANDER 6370641 ALEXANDER RD ASHTON DR END E AC 2 8 485 18 8,730 4/7/22 93 39 51 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 QUIVE 6180350 QUIVERA ST CORTEZ AV CAPISTRANO AV E AC 1 9 430 20 9,458 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 EIGHT 6370257 EIGHTH AV VIRGINIA WY SUNSET AV E AC 2 1 840 22 18,480 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 MOUNT V 6130161 MOUNTAIN VIEW DR TEMPLE HILLS DR END P AC 2 2 581 34 19,754 4/6/22 93 36 64 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 PEDRO 6370552 PEDRO ST BROOKS ST SE BROOKS ST NW E AC 2 1 1,347 24 32,333 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ST AN 6180009 ST ANNS DR COAST HY END E AC 2 3 327 36 11,790 2/10/22 93 0 93 7 New Construction - AC 1/1/00 TEMPL PL 6180186 TEMPLE PL TEMPLE TER END P AC 2 13 228 31 7,068 4/29/22 93 36 46 18 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 TENTH 6370261 TENTH AV VIRGINIA WY BRACKEN WY E AC 2 1 355 22 5,224 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 CORTE 6180361 CORTEZ AV QUIVERA ST ACAPULCO ST E AC 1 9 230 20 4,600 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 OCEAN V 6370535 OCEAN VIEW ST MONTEREY ST HOLLY DR P AC 2 1 480 24 11,520 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 QUEDA 6370699 QUEDA WY ALTA VISTA WY W END E AC 2 8 475 20 9,501 4/8/22 93 0 51 49 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 SANDP 6370685 SANDPIPER DR WEST END DAVIS WY E AC 2 9 157 21 3,445 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CATAL 6180463 CATALINA ST CALLIOPE ST BROOKS ST E AC 2 10 1,031 44 45,364 2/10/22 93 0 77 23 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CORAL 6130037 CORAL DR PACIFIC AV END E AC 2 12 887 28 24,836 4/7/22 93 34 58 8 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 MARLI 6370733 MARLIN DR KENDAL DR GULL CL E AC 2 9 717 24 11,483 2/18/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 BAJA ST 6180561 BAJA ST END (S) CAPISTRANO AV E AC 2 9 459 25 10,750 2/15/22 93 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 BEACH ST 6130080 BEACH ST BROADWAY OCEAN AV E AC 4 4 271 48 13,029 4/7/22 93 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/06 CLIFF 6130340 CLIFF DR MYRTLE ST JASMINE ST P AC 2 7 697 48 33,456 2/17/22 93 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 TEMPL TER 6180410 TEMPLE TERR CRESS ST CALLIOPE ST E AC 2 10 399 31 12,369 2/10/22 93 0 87 13 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CATEA 6130225 CATEAU WY ZELL DR CHILLON WY E AC 2 2 846 36 30,470 4/6/22 94 0 91 9 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 CRESS 6180448 CRESS ST COAST HY CATALINA ST C AC 2 13 569 40 22,760 2/10/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/94 DAVIS 6370683 DAVIS WY SOUTH END NORTH END E AC 2 9 410 20 11,480 2/18/22 94 0 92 8 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 GAVIO 6180424 GAVIOTA DR BROOKS ST OAK ST E AC 2 13 1,025 36 36,900 2/16/22 94 0 88 12 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 PEARL 6180642 PEARL ST COAST HY CATALINA ST E AC 2 10 714 38 27,132 2/10/22 94 0 83 17 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 SCENI 6370674 SCENIC DR SECOND AV EAGLEROCK WY E AC 2 1 252 22 5,544 2/18/22 94 0 83 17 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 VIRGI 6370380 VIRGINIA WY FIFTH AV THIRD AV E AC 2 1 600 20 12,000 2/18/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ALTA VISTA 6370569 ALTA VISTA WAY SOLANA WY END P AC 0 8 64 25 1,600 4/29/22 94 0 60 40 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CAJON 6130575 CAJON ST COAST HY HILLCREST DR E AC 2 7 620 34 21,080 2/14/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/95 MARIO 6370705 MARION WY NW END DUMOND DR E AC 2 8 139 28 3,903 4/29/22 94 0 75 25 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 PALA 6370698 PALA WY ALTA VISTA WY END E AC 1 8 221 14 3,094 4/8/22 94 0 88 12 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 QUIVE 6180362 QUIVERA ST ALISOS AV CORTEZ AV E AC 1 9 352 20 7,738 2/15/22 94 0 74 26 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 ALISOS AV 6370589 ALISOS AV QUIVERA ST END E AC 2 9 335 20 6,700 2/15/22 94 0 83 17 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CALLIOPE S 6180482 CALLIOPE ST COAST HY CATALINA ST E AC 2 10 566 42 23,772 2/10/22 94 0 72 28 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 EAGLE RK 6370408 EAGLE ROCK WY VIRGINIA WY SCENIC DR E AC 2 1 1,070 24 25,680 2/18/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 OAK S 6180181 OAK ST TEMPLE TE EAST END E AC 2 13 567 28 15,875 4/29/22 94 0 28 72 New Construction - AC 1/1/86 OAK S 6180432 OAK ST GAVIOTA DR COAST HY E AC 2 13 147 38 5,605 2/16/22 94 0 69 31 New Construction - AC 1/1/82 PANOR 6130590 PANORAMA DR ELEANOR LN END E AC 2 7 341 36 12,276 2/14/22 94 0 87 13 New Construction - AC 1/1/82 TEMPL 6130197 TEMPLE HILLS DR ZELL DR MOUNTAIN VIEW DR C AC 2 2 803 40 32,120 4/6/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 ALTA VISTA 6370775 ALTA VISTA WAY DUARTE WY CORONA WY C AC 2 8 143 20 2,865 2/15/22 94 0 84 16 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 ASTER ST 6130375 ASTER ST MONTEREY DR HIGH DR E AC 2 6 740 36 26,652 2/11/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 AVALON AV 6180041 AVALON AV SEAVIEW ST THALIA ST E AC 2 13 205 34 6,968 2/16/22 94 0 80 20 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 AVALON AV 6180119 AVALON AV SEAVIEW ST SE SEAVIEW ST NW E AC 2 13 50 36 1,800 2/16/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 EAGLE RK 6370405 EAGLE ROCK WY COAST HY VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 200 32 6,400 2/18/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ELEAN 6130513 ELEANOR LN NW END PANORAMA DR E AC 2 7 359 24 8,610 2/14/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/87 GRACE 6180150 GRACELAND DR CATALINA ST WILSON ST E AC 2 3 590 34 20,046 2/10/22 94 0 76 24 New Construction - AC 1/1/84 GRAND 6130474 GRANDVIEW ST END HILLCREST DR E AC 2 7 442 32 14,144 2/14/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/06 LA BR 6130565 LA BREA ST COAST HY HILLCREST DR E AC 2 7 620 28 17,360 2/14/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/08 RANDA 6180394 RANDALL WY SANTA CRUZ ST END E AC 2 10 339 28 9,499 2/10/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 SUMMI 6180715 SUMMIT DR REMBRANDT DR PEARL ST C AC 2 11 204 22 4,498 2/16/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 VIRGI 6370798 VIRGINIA WY FIFTH AV END E AC 2 1 185 18 3,330 4/29/22 94 44 56 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19
48 48 of 350
City of Laguna Beach, CA
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Report - All Streets
Sorted by Rank, PCI Order (0-100)
BranchID Sec ID Name From To Rank Surface Type Lanes Zone L W Area Insp. Date PCI % Load % Climate % Other Work History Type Work Date WAVE 6130700 WAVE ST CLIFF DR COAST HY E AC 2 7 370 32 11,840 2/17/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/92 HILLV 6130243 HILLVIEW DR HILLVIEW DR @WYE PARK AV E AC 2 2 109 36 3,925 4/7/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/1/21 MAR V 6370321 MAR VISTA AVE SUNSET AV EAST END E AC 2 1 196 38 7,450 2/18/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 TEMPL 6130206 TEMPLE HILLS DR SAN REMO DR DORN CT C AC 2 2 1,992 34 67,745 4/6/22 94 0 95 5 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 HILLV 6130245 HILLVIEW DR HILLVIEW DR END E AC 2 2 605 36 21,780 4/7/22 94 40 56 4 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/1/21 MYSTI 6130054 MYSTIC WY SKYLINE DR VISTA LN E AC 2 12 1,375 24 33,000 4/8/22 94 0 40 60 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 BROOKS ST 6180429 BROOKS ST COAST HY CATALINA ST E AC 2 13 565 40 22,600 2/10/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 ALPINE WAY 6130160 ALPINE WAY MOUNTAIN VIEW DR CDS E AC 2 2 439 32 14,036 4/6/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 CALLIOPE S 6180470 CALLIOPE ST TEMPLE TERR END E AC 2 10 603 42 25,326 2/10/22 94 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CARME 6180691 CARMELITA ST CENTER ST BLUEBIRD CANYON DR E AC 2 10 985 36 35,460 2/11/22 94 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 AGATE ST 6180416 AGATE ST COAST HWY OCEAN WY P AC 2 10 260 30 7,800 2/17/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BOLSA 6370736 BOLSANA WAY LORETTA DR BALBOA AV E AC 2 9 870 32 27,840 4/29/22 94 0 72 28 New Construction - AC 1/1/09 CATAL 6180417 CATALINA ST BLUEBIRD CANYON DR PALMER PL E AC 2 10 225 28 6,307 2/10/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 GRIFF 6180004 GRIFFITH PL SOUTH END GRIFFITH WY E AAC 2 3 208 28 5,817 4/29/22 94 60 4 36 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 OAK S 6180460 OAK ST COAST HY CATALINA ST E AC 2 13 566 38 21,508 2/10/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/90 TEMPL 6130203 TEMPLE HILLS DR DORN CT ZELL DR C AC 2 2 547 40 21,880 4/6/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BEACH ST 6130082 BEACH ST OCEAN AV FOREST AV E AC 2 4 257 36 9,267 4/7/22 94 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 DIAMO 6180640 DIAMOND ST COAST HY OCEAN WY C AC 2 10 230 38 8,740 2/17/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MONTE 6370406 MONTEREY ST EAGLEROCK WY WEST ST E AC 2 1 753 28 21,084 2/18/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 NINTH 6370252 NINTH AV COAST HY VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 200 24 4,800 2/18/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 TENTH 6370247 TENTH AV COAST HY VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 200 30 6,000 2/18/22 94 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 VIRGI 6370356 VIRGINIA WY SEVENTH AV NINTH AV E AC 2 1 653 22 14,366 2/18/22 94 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ALTA VISTA 6370724 ALTA VISTA WAY ENCINA WY DUARTE WY C AC 2 8 136 20 2,720 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CATEA 6130224 CATEAU WY ZELL DR ALTA LAGUNA BL E AC 2 2 457 36 16,463 4/6/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 DIAMO 6180637 DIAMOND ST COAST HY CATALINA ST C AC 2 10 712 38 27,056 2/11/22 95 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 THIRD 6370390 THIRD AV COAST HY VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 200 36 7,202 2/18/22 95 0 90 10 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 CORTE 6180363 CORTEZ AV ACAPULCO ST SANTA ANA ST E AC 1 9 230 20 4,600 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CORTE 6180539 CORTEZ AV KATELLA ST LA MIRADA ST E AC 2 9 230 28 6,440 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CRESTW 6130172 CRESTWOOD CL RIDGE DR END P AC 2 2 236 32 7,552 4/5/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 EL CA 6180053 EL CAMINO DEL MAR GLENNEYRE ST GOFF ST E AAC 2 3 341 34 11,594 2/17/22 95 0 100 0 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 KILO 6370695 KILO WY ALTA VISTA WY END E AC 2 8 578 22 12,716 4/8/22 95 0 82 18 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 PEARL 6180656 PEARL ST CATALINA ST CENTER ST E AC 2 10 600 28 16,800 2/10/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 TEMPL 6130238 TEMPLE HILLS DR SAN REMO DR SW SAN REMO DR NE C AC 2 2 910 38 34,573 4/6/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/08 CATAL 6370417 CATALINA ST COAST HY MONTEREY ST E AC 2 1 165 34 5,616 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 IRIS 6370773 IRIS WY ALTA VISTA WY END E AC 2 8 405 22 9,000 4/8/22 95 0 69 31 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 SCENI 6370388 SCENIC DR FOURTH AV THIRD AV E AC 2 1 356 28 9,968 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ACAPULCO 6180352 ACAPULCO ST CORTEZ AV CAPISTRANO AV E AC 2 9 430 20 8,600 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 BONITA WY 6370711 BONITA WY END (W) END (E) E AC 2 8 305 25 8,550 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 BROOKS ST 6180431 BROOKS ST COAST HY OCEAN FRONT E AC 2 13 264 40 10,560 2/16/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 CAPIS 6180349 CAPISTRANO AV QUIVERA ST ACAPULCO ST E AC 1 9 230 20 5,980 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CAPIS 6180353 CAPISTRANO AV SANTA ANA ST TIA JUANA ST E AC 1 9 230 20 5,980 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CAPIS 6180355 CAPISTRANO AV TIA JUANA ST BALBOA AV E AC 1 9 247 20 6,420 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CAPIS 6180551 CAPISTRANO AV KATELLA ST LA MIRADA ST E AC 2 9 230 25 5,750 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CHIQU 6130570 CHIQUITA ST COAST HY HEATHER PL E AC 2 7 620 34 21,080 2/14/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/82 CORON WY 6370781 CORONA WY FONTANA WY END P AC 0 8 276 30 8,280 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 CORTE 6180365 CORTEZ AV SANTA ANA ST TIA JUANA ST E AC 1 9 230 20 4,600 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CORTE 6180367 CORTEZ AV TIA JUANA ST BALBOA AV E AC 1 9 251 20 5,017 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CORTE 6180541 CORTEZ AV LA MIRADA ST MIRAMAR ST E AC 2 9 230 22 5,060 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 CRESS 6180494 CRESS ST COAST HY END C AC 2 13 209 42 8,778 2/16/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/85 CUMMINGS P 6180138 CUMMINGS PL SEAVIEW ST ANITA ST P AC 2 13 155 30 4,650 2/16/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 EAGAN 6370412 EAGAN RD FIRST AV WEST ST E AC 2 1 224 28 6,269 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 EIGHT 6370256 EIGHTH AV COAST HY VIRGINIA WY E AC 2 1 198 18 3,564 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 FAIRV 6130738 FAIRVIEW ST CLIFF DR COAST HY E AC 2 7 370 28 10,360 2/17/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/99 FIFTH 6370319 FIFTH AV SCENIC DR EAST END E AC 2 1 150 30 4,509 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 FLAMI 6180174 FLAMINGO RD ORIOLE DR END E AC 2 11 755 28 21,144 2/16/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 FLORA 6180664 FLORA ST GLENNEYRE ST CATALINA ST E AC 2 10 350 30 10,500 2/10/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 FLORA 6180684 FLORA ST CATALINA ST CARMELITA ST E AC 2 10 350 30 10,500 2/10/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 FLORA 6180689 FLORA ST CARMELITA ST SANTA CRUZ ST E AC 2 10 350 34 11,900 2/10/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 FONTA 6370563 FONTANA WY DUARTE WY CORONA WY E AC 2 8 125 30 3,762 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 FOURT 6370399 FOURTH AV VIRGINIA WY SCENIC DR C AC 2 1 529 28 14,812 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 GAVIO 6180492 GAVIOTA DR CRESS ST MOUNTAIN RD E AC 1 10 360 18 6,480 2/16/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 GAVIO 6180510 GAVIOTA DR CRESS ST BROOKS ST E AC 1 13 407 20 8,140 2/16/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/84 HILL 6130315 HILL LN ACACIA DR HIGH DR E AC 2 6 455 38 17,290 2/11/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 KATEL 6180316 KATELLA ST SUMMIT DR N END P AC 2 9 302 30 9,060 2/16/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/80 LOS O 6180055 LOS OLIVOS GLENNEYRE ST CATALINA ST E AAC 2 3 287 38 10,906 2/17/22 95 0 100 0 Overlay - AC Structural 1/1/22 MOSS 6370756 MOSS ST OCEAN WY COAST HY E AC 2 10 231 36 8,308 2/17/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MOUNT V 6130199 MOUNTAIN VIEW DR TEMPLE HILLS DR TYROL DR P AC 0 2 1,648 34 56,032 4/6/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 MYRTL 6130364 MYRTLE ST CYPRESS DR MONTEREY DR E AC 2 6 625 36 22,500 2/11/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 ROSE 6130301 ROSE PL HIGH DR HAWTHORNE RD E AC 2 6 164 26 4,276 2/14/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/25 RUBY 6180650 RUBY ST OCEAN WY COAST HWY E AC 2 10 230 36 8,282 2/17/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 RUBY 6180651 RUBY ST COAST HY GLENNEYRE ST E AC 2 10 305 36 10,980 2/11/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 SANTA ANA 7000007 SANTA ANA ST CORTEZ AVE END E AC 0 9 180 20 3,600 2/15/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 SCENI 6370382 SCENIC DR THIRD AV SECOND AV E AC 2 1 349 28 9,772 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19
49 49 of 350
City of Laguna Beach, CA
Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Report - All Streets
Sorted by Rank, PCI Order (0-100)
BranchID Sec ID Name From To Rank Surface Type Lanes Zone L W Area Insp. Date PCI % Load % Climate % Other Work History Type Work Date VIEJO 6130507 VIEJO ST HILLCREST DR NE END E AC 2 7 219 22 4,812 2/14/22 95 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/95 WEST 6370433 WEST ST COAST HY MONTEREY ST E AC 2 1 165 34 5,610 2/18/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ALTA LAGUN 6130211 ALTA LAGUNA BLVD PARK AV RIDGE DR P AC 4 2 451 54 24,354 4/5/22 95 0 93 7 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 PACIF 6130009 PACIFIC AV CORAL DR END E AC 2 12 343 28 9,660 4/7/22 95 0 63 37 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 5/22/24 CRESTA 6130193 CRESTA WY TEMPLE HILLS DR ALTA LAGUNA BLVD P AC 2 2 922 34 31,348 4/6/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 SAN C 6370686 SAN CLEMENTE ST ALTA VISTA WY END E AC 2 8 359 18 4,626 4/8/22 95 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 DUMON 6370637 DUMOND DR WARDS TE MARION WY E AC 2 8 202 34 6,873 4/29/22 96 0 34 66 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 TYROL 6130191 TYROL DR ALTA LAGUNA BL MOUNTAIN VIEW DR E AC 2 2 265 36 9,522 4/5/22 96 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 BONN DR 6130208 BONN DR MOUNTAIN VIEW DR TYROL DR E AC 2 2 1,108 40 44,314 4/5/22 96 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 CRESC 6130731 CRESCENT BAY DR CRESCENT BAY DR @S WYE CRESCENT BAY DR @E WYE E AC 2 7 339 30 10,156 2/14/22 96 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/90 MOUNT V 6130164 MOUNTAIN VIEW DR TYROL DR END P AC 2 2 292 34 11,178 4/5/22 96 0 70 30 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 PITCA 6130007 PITCAIRN PL PACIFIC AV NORTH END E AC 2 12 98 28 2,754 4/7/22 96 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 VIA M 6130699 VIA MAJORCA MCKNIGHT DR SE END E AC 2 7 172 36 6,198 2/14/22 96 0 100 0 New Construction - AC 1/1/85 BOUNTY WY 6130001 BOUNTY WY PACIFIC AV EAST END E AC 2 12 466 24 11,192 4/7/22 96 60 23 17 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 MORNI CIR 6180217 MORNINGSIDE CIR MORNINGSIDE DR END P AC 2 11 79 31 2,449 2/16/22 96 0 38 62 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 MOSS 6370751 MOSS ST CATALINA ST SOUTH END E AC 2 10 620 28 17,360 2/11/22 96 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/20 DUART 6370778 DUARTE WY FONTANA WY E END E AC 2 8 102 20 2,040 4/8/22 97 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BERMUDA DR 6130011 BERMUDA DR CORONADO DR NORTH END E AC 2 12 445 24 10,682 4/7/22 97 0 85 15 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 QUEDA 6370713 QUEDA WY ALTA VISTA WY E END E AC 2 8 263 26 6,846 4/8/22 97 0 68 32 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 DORN 6130162 DORN CT TEMPLE HILLS DR END E AC 2 2 96 40 3,826 4/6/22 98 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 DUART 6370776 DUARTE WY W END FONTANA WY E AC 2 8 308 26 7,999 4/8/22 98 0 52 48 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 BOUNTY WY 6130006 BOUNTY WY PACIFIC AV NW END E AC 2 12 240 24 5,750 4/7/22 98 0 51 49 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 TYROL 6130174 TYROL DR RIDGE DR NW END E AC 2 2 129 36 4,644 4/5/22 98 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 CORAL 6130018 CORAL DR PACIFIC AV NW END E AC 2 12 367 24 8,811 4/7/22 98 0 45 55 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/17 PARK P 6130165 PARK PL ALTA LAGUNA BLVD END P AC 2 2 426 36 15,336 4/5/22 98 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 9/15/21 CAPIS 6180538 CAPISTRANO AV MIRAMAR ST NORIA ST E AC 2 9 230 25 5,750 2/15/22 99 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 WILSO 6180035 WILSON ST SEAVIEW ST THALIA ST E AC 2 13 255 40 10,186 2/10/22 99 0 21 79 New Construction - AC 1/1/10 PASEO 6370534 PASEO DEL SUR TOTO LOMA LN RICO RD E AC 2 1 831 28 23,261 4/8/22 99 0 100 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 10/1/19 ARROYO CHI 6180001 ARROYO CHICO CATALINA ST END P AAC 2 3 428 20 8,560 4/1/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 4/1/22 BENT ST 6130104 BENT ST PARK AV END E AAC 2 4 385 46 17,710 4/13/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 4/13/22 CATAL 6180042 CATALINA ST THALIA ST CLEO ST E AAC 2 3 860 50 43,000 4/1/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 4/1/22 CATAL 6180045 CATALINA ST LEGION ST PARK AV E AAC 2 3 586 36 21,106 4/1/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 4/1/22 CATAL 6180064 CATALINA ST CLEO ST LEGION ST P AAC 0 3 904 50 45,200 4/1/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 4/1/22 CLEO 6180081 CLEO ST SLEEPY HOLLOW LN COAST HY E AAC 2 3 277 52 14,404 5/22/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 5/22/22 CLEO 6180136 CLEO ST GLENNEYRE ST CATALINA ST E AAC 2 3 342 28 9,571 4/1/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 4/1/22 CUPRI 6180016 CUPRIEN WY THALIA ST WENDT TERR E AAC 2 3 635 28 17,780 4/1/22 100 0 0 0 Overlay - AC Structural 4/1/22 DUNNI 6180175 DUNNING DR TEMPLE HILLS DR NE END E AC 2 8 1,898 22 41,750 4/6/22 100 0 0 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 12/1/14 DYER 6180239 DYER WY DYER WY MILLER WY E AC 2 11 611 12 7,332 2/16/22 100 0 0 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16 DYER 6180262 DYER WY DYER PL MADISON PL E AC 0 11 175 14 2,445 2/16/22 100 0 0 0 Surface Treatment - Slurry Seal 11/1/16
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XIII. APPENDIX C – GIS DIGITAL DATA
Introduction
The OCTA GIS Section maintains a spatial inventory of transportation infrastructure which mostly consists of major arterial streets, roads, and highways. A key component of road information is pavement condition. Maintaining an inventory of pavement condition will enhance OCTA’s GIS visualization and analysis capabilities and assist in understanding the transportation investment needs throughout the region. Therefore, a GIS dataset in digital format should be included in this report.
Structure of GIS Data
The GIS dataset must consist of linear geographic features that represent road/street segments. All segments that are part of the report should be included in the GIS dataset. The attribute information of each segment should generally follow the format of the Complete Listing of Current Street Conditions in Appendix B above.
The GIS data requirements are discussed below. Most commercial and open-source GIS software provide industrystandard tools to manage GIS data to meet these requirements.
GIS Digital Data Format
The GIS data must be submitted in either one of the following formats:
• Esri Shapefile, or
• Esri File Geodatabase
Metadata
The GIS data are required to have associated metadata. The minimum metadata items required are:
• Title of Dataset
• Tags (A set of words that can be used by GIS to search for the resource. For example: “pavement”, “transportation”, “roads”)
• Summary (A brief purpose statement of the dataset)
• Description (A brief narrative of the dataset’s content) • Credits (A recognition of those who created or contributed to the resource) Spatial Geometry Type
The spatial geometry of the segment features must be lines that represent the roadway centerline as accurately as possible.
Projection
The GIS data must have spatial reference information and have its coordinate system identified and embedded in or associated with the data file(s). All GIS data submitted to OCTA should be in the following projected coordinate system:
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• NAD 1983 State Plane California VI FIPS 0406 (US Feet) - More information about this system can be found at: https://spatialreference.org/ref/epsg/nad83-california-zone-6-ftus/ GIS Feature Attributes
The required segment attributes are:
• Street name
• Unique segment identifier (Segment ID from original source if available) • Name of intersecting road at the beginning of a segment • Name of intersecting road at the end of the segment
• Current pavement condition index (PCI)
• Current PCI inspection date
• Length of road segment in feet
• Width of road segment in feet
• Paved area of road segment in square feet or square yards • Projected PCI at end of Seven-Year Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Plan Additional attributes such as number of through travel lanes, direction of travel and pavement surface type may be provided.
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XIV. APPENDIX D – QUALITY ASSURANCE / QUALITY CONTROL PLAN Introduction
When performing data collection in any field, the need for quality control is paramount as it is essential for accurate planning, analysis and design. This is particularly true for collecting pavement distress data for a pavement management program.
The Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) Plan establishes minimum quality standards for performance and procedures for update of the pavement management program.
Objectives
This document constitutes a formal QA/QC Plan for the City of Laguna Beach. It was prepared in March, 2020 and last revised in April, 2026.
Specifically, it is intended for the 2026 Pavement Management Plan Update. The focus is on the collection of network-level pavement distress data (defined by National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Synthesis 401 Quality Management of Pavement Data Collection, as “Network-level data collection involves collection of large quantities of pavement condition data, which is often converted to individual condition indices or aggregated into composite condition indices”.
This document also addresses the QA/QC plan requirements of the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA)’s “Countywide Pavement Management Plan Guidelines” (Section 2.4), adopted in May 2010.
Structure of QA/QC Plan
The following components are addressed in this QA/QC Plan:
• Condition survey procedures used;
• Accuracy required for data collection;
• Inspector qualifications and experience; and
• Safety.
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Condition Survey Procedures
The governing document in performing condition surveys for the City of Laguna Beach is ASTM D6433 “Standard Practice for Roads and Parking Lots Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Surveys.” Both asphalt concrete (AC) and Portland cement concrete (PCC) pavements are included in this protocol. The following distresses are collected for each pavement type:
As required by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), the City of Laguna Beach must prepare and implement a quality assurance / quality control (QA/QC) plan regarding pavement management inspection as they pertain to MicroPAVER. For the purposes of this report, Bucknam has demonstrated below how our project team implemented QA/QC procedures during the project.
Our QA/QC plan focuses on the how each pavement inspection is performed, what distresses are collected and ensures that it complies with the OCTA guidelines defined within the “Countywide Pavement Management Plan Guidelines (CPMPG)”.
As shown within the OCTA CPMPG, our staff followed and delivered on the requirements stated within Chapter 2, page 2-5 which require specific QA/QC data (Items A through G). Additionally, Chapter 3 requires numerous data/deliverables from local agencies for OC Go eligibility. All general PCI budgetary report submittals will follow the Chapter 3 guidelines.
In conjunction with the outlined items within the CPMPG Section 2 we have summarized our QA/QC procedures below:
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a. Descriptions of condition survey - Our staff follows the required Condition Survey Protocols (CPMPG, Chapter 2); our staff assesses each pavement section for the minimum distresses outlined within Chapter 2, page 2-1. Additionally, based on the pavement conditions found, we collect all MicroPAVER/StreetSaver Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) distresses, if found within the sample sections; for example, if slippage cracking, potholes, etc. are found our survey technicians record the proper information.
b. How data was collected - Our surveys follow the OCTA accepted walking requirements. All sections that our staff surveys are performed through the walking method, approximately 10% of all sections surveyed were complemented with windshield surveys based on unique conditions found. Our staff physically measures the width of every section as well as measure for any square footage adjustment that need to be added or taken away from a sections “true area” (i.e. cul-desac, bus pads, street width variances, etc.). Samples taken always include a minimum of 2,500 SF coverage unless specific section limits prohibit this. Arterial section samples utilize a 3,500 SF sample size due to the larger section area (this is within the ASTM D6433 sample size calculation.
Field crews typically include one individual for residential pavement sections while Arterial (MPAH) routes utilize a two-person crew for safety, traffic control and increases quality control. c. Accuracy required for data collection - We use a statistical sampling approach for measuring the quality of our field technician’s work. In this manner, 10 percent of the original surveys are resurveyed by a different survey crew than the original, supervised by a field supervisor, and the results are compared to the original surveys. Our QC process involves checking the field crews’ work in a “blind study” fashion. Quality control checks are performed at the end of each survey week. This ensures that all field personnel are properly collecting section samples, distress types and distress severities for all street segments.
When QA/QC issues are found, our staff documents the issues within MicroPAVER’s user interface. If distress types found are not within the 97% accuracy our QA/QC is expanded beyond our minimum 10% resurvey to 20% of the original survey d. Random and Systematic Re-Inspections – As described above our staff re-inspects, as a minimum, 10% of the original survey (OCTA only requires 5%). Per the agencies requests, our staff will submit PCI reports to the agency as project status reports for their review. Agencies will typically review specific pavement sections for PCI accuracy based on recent overlay or slurry seal maintenance; this serves as an initial accuracy check on our surveys (outside Bucknam QC efforts).
Additionally, our staff performs “ride-a-long” surveys with local agency staff to build consensus on how our MicroPAVER/StreetSaver USACE surveys are performed, recorded and reported on.
Random re-inspections will include a representative selection across the following categories:
• Functional classed (i.e. MPAH, locals);
• Surface types (e.g. AC or PCC);
• Pavement conditions (e.g. good, fair, poor);
• Inspectors;
• Geographical areas, if applicable.
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For systematic re-inspections, this could be due to noticed trends such as specific treatment types (e.g. open-graded mixed), a specific inspector or geographical area. In these cases Bucknam continues to utilize a 10% re-inspection policy.
e. PCI Comparison with Past Surveys - if previous inspection data is available, new PCI’s calculated through the most recent inspections will be compared to previous PCI’s. If the variance in PCI is greater than +/- 10 PCI points, these sections will be flagged for further investigation and/or reinspection (In the cases that a PCI increases or decreases by 10 points follows the established CPMPG guidelines; Appendix A, page A-18).
f. Schedule of data submittal – Pending on the City’s last major PMP submittal, Bucknam will assist the agency in submitting the following:
Master Plan of Arterial Highways (MPAH) routes will be surveyed and reported on at least once every two years
Local streets will be surveyed and reported on every six years Corresponding MPAH and local PCI reporting and budgetary reporting will be submitted every two years
g. Inspector’s Qualifications and Experience – Bucknam staff have been trained on the use of MicroPAVER and the segment calibration/verification and inspection practices. Mr. Peter Bucknam (Project Manager) has completed the MicroPAVER Certification of Professional Development courses. All Bucknam field technicians are trained using the ASTM D6433 survey methodologies and have passed OCTA’s prequalification testing every year since 2010. Bucknam Infrastructure Group inspectors have attended formal training on pavement condition distress surveys. This training was conducted prior to performing any work using the ASTM D6433 protocols, consistent with OCTA’s requirements.
Attachments – Inspectors Certifications
• Certificate of Prequalification – OCTA Pavement Inspector Prequalification Program (see below):
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h. Safety procedures – Bucknam field survey techniques utilize the following procedures:
• All vehicles are properly marked or flagged with appropriate sign markings indicating that a “PAVEMENT SURVEY IS IN PROGRESS”
• All vehicles have the proper flashing amber light beacons placed on the top of the vehicle to allow for proper visibility and line-of-site warning • Large MPAH routes are surveyed using two field technicians to increase traffic control warning and safety
• While parking or stopping along the survey route, vehicles legally park within the right-ofway or use a parking lot • All field technicians wear ANSI – 105 Class II safety vests 57 57 of 350
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XV. APPENDIX E – PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT DATA FILES
The City of Laguna Beach MicroPAVER database (.e70 file) has been enclosed for City and OCTA use. This data and the associated reporting data includes:
• Street names and limits for the City’s public streets • Street identifiers (Branch ID, Section ID)
• Direction (if applicable)
• Beginning and ending of each section
• Length, width and true areas
• Functional Classification (MPAH, Local)
• Number of travel lanes
• Pavement Condition Index (PCI) and date of inspection • Type of recommended treatment
• Cost of recommended treatment
• Street geometry as linear of polygon features
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XVI. APPENDIX F – GIS MAPS / CURRENT CONDITIONS
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RESOLUTION NO. 26.XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CONCERNING THE STATUS
AND UPDATE OF THE PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
THE MEASURE M (M2) PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH
WHEREAS, the City of Laguna Beach (City) is required to meet eligibility requirements and submit eligibility verification packages to the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) in order to remain eligible to receive M2 funding; and WHEREAS, the City is required to adopt and update a Pavement Management Plan (PMP), using the required format, regarding the status of road pavement conditions and implementation of the PMP on a biennial basis; and
WHEREAS, the City is required to provide a plan that manages the preservation, rehabilitation, and maintenance of paved roads by analyzing pavement life cycles, assessing overall system performance costs, and determining alternatives strategies and costs necessary to improve paved roads.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH DOES RESOLVE:
SECTION 1.
(a) The PMP is in conformance with the PMP Submittal Template provided in the Countywide Pavement Management Plan Guidelines.
(b) The City hereby adopts a PMP and has provided an updated PMP report, using the required format, to OCTA.
(c) The Director of Public Works, the City Engineer or their designee is authorized to sign the PMP certification form.
Attachment 3
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-2- Reso. #26.XXX
ADOPTED this 23rd day of June, 2026.
Mark Orgill, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk
I, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26.XXX was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of said City held on June 23, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
City Clerk, City of Laguna Beach, California
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Attachment 4
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LOCAL SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION PLAN
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SECTION ONE
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION
GOALS, POLICIES, AND OBJECTIVES
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GOALS
OCTA’s Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Program (Regional Master Plan) is included as part of the approved Measure M2. The Regional Master Plan is a multi-agency, corridor-based approach that optimizes the performance of traffic signals based on existing traffic patterns. The goals of the program are to improve the flow of traffic on Orange County streets and roads by implementing multiagency signal synchronization.
The City of Laguna Beach is in concurrence with these goals and will continue to work cooperatively with OCTA and adjacent jurisdictions to synchronize signals throughout the City on a corridor basis.
This cooperation will serve to provide safe, efficient traffic circulation for our local needs as well as future demands, by continuing to improve travel times and reducing stops.
The City does not have a designated Traffic Management Center (TMC) or is responsible for any traffic signals within our city’s jurisdiction. However, the City is committed to collaborating with our local partners, mainly the City of Aliso Viejo and Caltrans, to improve traffic flow through arterial roadways within our city, specifically Pacific Coast Highway (also known as SR-1), Laguna Canyon Road/Broadway (also known as SR-133) and El Toro Road.
POLICIES
The City of Laguna Beach does not maintain or own our traffic signals in the City. However, this LSSP will be the basis of future ongoing efforts from the City to continue to maintain consistency with the Measure M2 funding. The purpose of the LSSP is to identify, implement and maintain coordination of traffic signals along corridors within our city and beyond its borders to regionally maintain safe and efficient flow of vehicular traffic.
The Regional Master Plan also provides the opportunity to work with neighboring agencies to accomplish mutually beneficial goals. It is the City’s desire and policy to continue participating in and supporting the Regional Master Plan. The City does not maintain local control and responsibility of all traffic signals within our jurisdiction; however, we are committed to collaborating with our local partners to coordinate any changes to the signals, equipment, and policies within our jurisdiction.
OBJECTIVES
The City of Laguna Beach plans to collaborate with our local partners to periodically evaluate and optimize signal timing in response to changing traffic conditions, volumes, and patterns. The City concurs that the Regional Master Plan is beneficial and needed to effectively move people and goods locally and regionally through efficient signal timing. By participating in the Regional Master Plan, the City recognizes the benefits gained from local signal timing and synchronization, as well as from eligible traffic signal and equipment upgrades. Moreover, the City recognizes this program as a valuable, corridor-based measure for improving air quality by reducing green-house gas emissions. In participating in the Regional Master Plan, it is the City’s objective to continue to address regional goals while serving constituents in a reasonable manner. 66 66 of 350
SECTION TWO
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION STREET ROUTES
(EXISTING AND PLANNED)
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TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION STREET ROUTES
EXISTING:
Regional Network:
Priority Corridor Network
1) Pacific Coast Highway (SR-1)
2) Laguna Canyon Road / Broadway Street (SR-133)
3) El Toro Road
PLANNED:
Regional Signal Synchronization Network
4) Pacific Coast Highway (SR-1) – School/State Park to Doheny Park Road 5) Laguna Canyon Road / Broadway Street (SR-133) – SR-1 to SR-73 6) El Toro Road – SR-133 to Bells Vireo Lane / Artisan Drive 68 68 of 350
SECTION THREE
TRAFFIC SIGNAL INVENTORY
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Traffic Synchronization Inventory
City of Laguna Beach
Cycle Length Equipment
Corridor Cross Street Intersection AM MID PM WKND
Maintenance
Responsibility Cabinet Type Software Detection
Bike
Detection CCTV
Power
Backup Comm
Other
ITS ATMS Status
El Toro Road Bells Vireo Lane/Artisan Drive 120 Free 140 Free Aliso Viejo P (TS1) ASC/3 ASC/3 Loops No N/A BBS Copper Centracs Online NB SR-73 Off/On Ramp N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline SB SR-73 Off/On Ramp N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Pacific Coast Highway (SR-1) School/State Park N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Viejo Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Cliff Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Beverly Street/Cliff Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Boat Canyon Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Myrtle Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Jasmine Street (RRFB Location) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans Other Other Other Other No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Aster Street/Cliff Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Broadway Street (Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Ocean Avenue N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Forest Avenue/Park Avenue N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Laguna Avenue N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Legion Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Cleo Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Thalia Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Anita Street (RRFB Location) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans Other Other Other Other No N/A N/A Other Other Offline 70 70 of 350
Pacific Coast Highway (SR-1) Oak Street (RRFB Location) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans Other Other Other Other No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Brooks Street (RRFB Location) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans Other Other Other Other No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Cress Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Mountain Road N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Calliope Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Bluebird Canyon Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Pearl Street (RRFB Location) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans Other Other Other Other No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Diamond Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Nyes Place N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Montage Resort Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Wesley Drive/Montage Resort Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline West Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Eagle Rock Way (RRFB Location) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans Other Other Other Other No N/A N/A Other Other Offline 3rd Avenue N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline 7th Avenue N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline 9th Avenue N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Vista Del Sol N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Laguna Canyon Road/Broadway Street (SR-133) Beach Street N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Forest Avenue N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Festival of the Arts N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline Canyon Acres Drive N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline LCAD (Ped Signal/Hawk Location) N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline El Toro Road N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline NB SR-73 Off/On Ramp N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline SB SR-73 Off/On Ramp N/A N/A N/A N/A Caltrans 332 2070 Other Loops No N/A N/A Other Other Offline 71 71 of 350
SECTION FOUR
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION SYSTEM
AND THREE-YEAR PLAN
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3-YEAR OUTLOOK
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION
Funding Needs for Synchronized Operation (Constrained)
Reporting Jurisdiction Expenditures: City of Laguna Beach Type of Traffic Signal Synchronization Expenditures in Year of Expenditure Dollars
MAINTENANCE
PROJECT FY26/27 FY27/28 FY28/29 TOTAL
Citywide EVP Software Maintenance - $10,000 $10,000 $20,000 Subtotal Maintenance $20,000.00
CONSTRUCTION
PROJECT FY26/27 FY27/28 FY28/29 TOTAL
Subtotal Construction
OPERATIONS
PROJECT FY26/27 FY27/28 FY28/29 TOTAL
Citywide EVP Operations Monitoring - $10,000 $10,000 $20,000 Subtotal Operations $20,000.00
$1,140,000.00
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3-YEAR OUTLOOK
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION
Funding Needs for Synchronized Operation (Unconstrained) Reporting Jurisdiction Expenditures: City of Laguna Beach Type of Traffic Signal Synchronization Expenditures in Year of Expenditure Dollars
MAINTENANCE
PROJECT FY26/27 FY27/28 FY28/29 TOTAL
Citywide EVP Software Maintenance - $10,000 $10,000 $20,000 Subtotal Maintenance $20,000.00
CONSTRUCTION (City’s share of costs)
PROJECT FY26/27 FY27/28 FY28/29 TOTAL
Pacific Coast Highway and Laguna Canyon
Road/Broadway Street TSSP - $1,000,000 - $1,000,000
El Toro Road TSSP - - $90,000 $90,000
(please see table on next page for details)
Subtotal Construction $1,090,000.00
OPERATIONS
PROJECT FY26/27 FY27/28 FY28/29 TOTAL
Citywide EVP Operations Monitoring - $10,000 $10,000 $20,000 Subtotal Operations $20,000.00
$1,130,000.00
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LSSP IMPLEMENTATION – CANDIDATE SIGNAL
SYNCHRONIZATION PROJECTS WITH ESTIMATED COSTS
Reporting Jurisdiction Expenditures: City of Laguna Beach Following are corridor improvements, with a summary description and cost, which are considered candidate projects that the City of Laguna Beach desires to pursue upon available funding:
CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT SUMMARY ESTIMATED
COST
Pacific Coast Highway
(SR-1):
School/State Park to
Doheny Park Road
Install Emergency Vehicle Pre-Emption devises, prepare and implement signal timing programs, provide maintenance and support, prepare before and after studies, etc.
$750,000.00
Laguna Canyon Road /
Broadway Street (SR133)
SR-1 to SR-73
Install Emergency Vehicle Pre-Emption devises, prepare and implement signal timing programs, provide maintenance and support, prepare before and after studies, etc.
$250,000.00
El Toro Road:
SR-133 to Bells Viero
Lane/Artisan Drive
Install Emergency Vehicle Pre-Emption devises, prepare and implement signal timing programs, provide maintenance and support, prepare before and after studies, etc.
$90,000.00
Total Estimated Cost: $1,090,000.00
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SECTION FIVE
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION REVIEW, REVISION,
AND ASSESSMENT
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Corridor Assessment
The City of Laguna Beach does not maintain, own, or operate any traffic signals in the City. However, through local partnerships we hope we will be able to be considered for future project funding.
Specific Corridor Project Assessment
As previously mentioned, the City of Laguna Beach does not maintain, own, or operate any traffic signals in the City. However, through local partnerships we hope we will be able to be considered for future project funding.
Priorities, Approach, and System Plan
The City strives to move traffic regionally in a safe manner along our corridors, reducing commuter travel times and stops, while minimizing side-street delays that serve our citizens. Collaborating with our local partners will include periodic review of all coordination timing with every city arterial.
Through this collaboration, the City will assure that the signal timing is maintained and is periodically evaluated and fine-tuned in response to changing traffic conditions, volumes and patterns. The review of other consultants’ signal synchronization timing is also included when applicable.
The City’s is currently interested in upgrading intersections, specifically identifying the need for emergency pre-emption devices along SR-1, SR-133 and El Toro Road to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of emergency vehicles in the City. In addition, the City desires to continue participating in future Regional Master Plan corridor projects. 77 77 of 350
TABLE A
REGIONAL TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION ASSESSMENT, REVIEW, &
REVISIONS
LOCAL AGENCY CORRIDOR TIMING
REVIEWED
(Past 3 Years)
DID
TIMING
REQUIRE
AN
UPDATE?
TIMING UPDATE RESULTS (if
available)
Speed Travel Stops per mile Greens per
red CSPI Score*
Before After Before After Before After Before After
Pacific Coast Highway (SR-1) No N/A
Laguna Canyon Road / Broadway Street (SR-133) No N/A
El Toro Road No N/A
TABLE B
SIGNAL TIMING REVISIONS
PROJECT CORRIDOR CROSS STREET CYCLE LENGTH (Before/After) N/A – None at the moment
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79 79 of 350
RESOLUTION NO. 26.XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CONCERNING THE UPDATE
OF THE LOCAL SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION PLAN FOR THE
MEASURE M (M2) PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Orange County Transportation Authority has developed the Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Master Plan to identify traffic signal synchronization street routes and traffic signals within and across jurisdictional boundaries, and defines the means of implementing the Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Program; and
WHEREAS, the Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Programs requires that local jurisdictions adopt a Local Signal Synchronization Plan consistent with the Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Master Plan as a key component of the local jurisdictions’ efforts to synchronizing traffic signal across local jurisdictions’ boundaries; and WHEREAS, the Local Signal Synchronization Plan must be updated by June 30, 2026 to continue to be eligible to receive Net Revenues as part of Measure M2.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH DOES RESOLVE:
SECTION 1. The City adopts and maintains a Local Signal Synchronization Plan which includes goals that are consistent with those outlined as part of the Regional Signal Synchronization Master Plan, including signal synchronization across jurisdictions.
SECTION 2. The Local Signal Synchronization Plan identifies traffic signal synchronization street routes, including all elements of the Regional Signal Synchronization Network located within the City.
SECTION 3. The Local Signal Synchronization Plan includes the traffic signal inventory Attachment 5
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-2- Reso. #26.XXX
for all traffic signal synchronization street routes.
SECTION 4. The Local Signal Synchronization Plan includes a three-year plan showing capital, operations, and maintenance of signal synchronization along the traffic signal synchronization street routes and traffic signals.
SECTION 5. The Local Signal Synchronization Plan includes an update on the status and performance of traffic signal synchronization activities.
SECTION 6. The Local Signal Synchronization Plan includes a discussion on the review and revision, as may be necessary, on the timing of traffic signals on the traffic signal synchronization street routes.
SECTION 7. The City Council finds that the subject activity is not a Project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15378 and is therefore not subject to review under CEQA.
SECTION 8. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this Resolution, which shall become effective immediately upon adoption.
ADOPTED this 23rd day of June, 2026.
Mark Orgill, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk
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-3- Reso. #26.XXX
I, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26.XXX was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of said City held on June 23, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
City Clerk, City of Laguna Beach, California
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STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
June 23, 2026
Consent
15 SUBJECT: AWARD OF CONTRACT TO BURNBOT, INC. FOR FUEL MODIFICATION ZONE 19 IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES AND APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT
TO AGREEMENT WITH LAGUNA CANYON FOUNDATION FOR ENHANCED
BIOLOGICAL MONITORING AND REPORTING
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Award and authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with BurnBot Inc. (BurnBot) in the amount of $208,824 for implementation of Fuel Modification Zone 19 (FMZ 19);
2. Approve and authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement with Laguna Canyon Foundation in the amount of $20,124 for enhanced biological monitoring, mapping, and reporting services associated with FMZ 19 implementation; and
3. Find that the recommended actions are within the scope of the environmental review previously completed for the Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project (FMZs 16 and 19), that no further environmental review is required pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and 15168, and that the project is further statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080(b)(4) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15269(c) as specific actions necessary to prevent or mitigate a wildfire emergency.
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
This report recommends awarding a Professional Services Agreement to BurnBot, Inc. for the implementation of Fuel Modification Zone 19 (FMZ 19), a new fuel modification zone located within the Diamond/Crestview area, and approving an amendment to the City's agreement with Laguna Canyon Foundation (LCF) for enhanced biological monitoring and reporting services associated with project implementation.
FMZ 19 consists of approximately 26.9 acres of previously untreated vegetation located adjacent to residential development within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The project will reduce wildfire risk by establishing defensible space, reducing fuel continuity, removing invasive vegetation, and implementing fuel modification treatments in accordance with the City's approved Fuel Modification Zone Treatment Protocol and applicable environmental permit requirements.
To implement the project, the City issued Request for Proposals (RFP) FD-26-004 seeking qualified contractors to perform the required vegetation reduction services. Multiple proposals were received and evaluated based on contractor qualifications, project approach, environmental considerations, and cost.
Following evaluation of the proposals, staff determined that BurnBot provides the best overall value to the City and is capable of completing the project in accordance with all operational and environmental requirements.
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AWARD OF CONTRACT TO BURNBOT, INC. FOR FUEL MODIFICATION ZONE 19
IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES AND APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT
WITH LAGUNA CANYON FOUNDATION FOR ENHANCED BIOLOGICAL MONITORING
AND REPORTING
June 23, 2026
The report also recommends approval of an amendment to the City's existing agreement with Laguna Canyon Foundation in an amount not to exceed $20,124 to provide enhanced biological monitoring, mapping, invasive species tracking, and reporting services during project implementation. These services will ensure compliance with permit requirements and provide documentation of project outcomes.
DISCUSSION
Background
The City maintains a comprehensive wildfire mitigation program intended to reduce wildfire risk throughout the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). Fuel Modification Zones (FMZs) are a critical component of the City's wildfire mitigation strategy and are designed to reduce fuel loading adjacent to developed areas while maintaining environmental stewardship and habitat protection.
FMZ 19 was identified as a priority wildfire mitigation project due to its location immediately adjacent to residential neighborhoods in the Diamond/Crestview area. The project area contains approximately 26.9 acres of unmanaged vegetation and has not previously undergone fuel modification treatment.
The project will establish a new fuel modification zone through selective vegetation thinning, removal of invasive species, reduction of ladder fuels, pruning, and disposal or processing of vegetation in accordance with City standards and environmental permit requirements.
Request for Proposals
On April 29, 2026, the City issued Request for Proposals (RFP) FD-26-004 seeking qualified contractors to implement FMZ 19. Proposals were received from multiple firms and reviewed by City staff.
In addition to proposals received through the competitive solicitation process, Nature's Image, Inc., the City's current wildfire mitigation contractor, submitted a proposed amendment to its existing agreement offering to perform FMZ 19 for a revised amount of $845,075, representing an approximate ten percent reduction from the previously allocated FMZ 19 cost of $939,066. Although Nature's Image's proposal provided a reduction from the originally anticipated cost, staff determined that the proposal did not provide sufficient cost savings to be competitive with the proposals received through the solicitation process.
Proposal costs are summarized below:
Proposer Cost
BurnBot $208,824
Summitt Forests $158,549
Blaze Blockers $667,325
Julian Tree Care $342,000
Singh Group $776,093
West Coast Arborists $387,360
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AWARD OF CONTRACT TO BURNBOT, INC. FOR FUEL MODIFICATION ZONE 19
IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES AND APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT
WITH LAGUNA CANYON FOUNDATION FOR ENHANCED BIOLOGICAL MONITORING
AND REPORTING
June 23, 2026
Proposer Cost
Nature's Image (Contract Amendment Proposal) $845,075
Staff evaluated each proposal based on contractor qualifications, project approach, environmental compliance, operational capabilities, project schedule, and cost. While Summitt Forests submitted the lowest-cost proposal, staff determined that BurnBot's proposal provided the best overall value based on its proposed treatment methodology, project approach, environmental considerations, and demonstrated experience performing similar wildfire mitigation projects.
Laguna Canyon Foundation Monitoring Amendment
Implementation of FMZ 19 by BurnBot will require enhanced biological oversight to ensure compliance with environmental permits, mitigation measures, and project-specific environmental requirements. The City currently utilizes Laguna Canyon Foundation to provide environmental monitoring and invasive species management support associated with its fuel modification program.
To support implementation of FMZ 19, staff recommends approval of an amendment to the existing agreement with Laguna Canyon Foundation in an amount not to exceed $20,124. Services provided under the amendment include:
• Project oversight and coordination;
• Biological monitoring during implementation activities; • Mapping and monitoring of special-status and invasive plant species; • Continued monitoring through the Calflora system;
• End-of-season vegetation surveys and monitoring; and
• Preparation of an end-of-season monitoring report documenting treatment outcomes and vegetation conditions.
The proposed amendment will provide the additional biological oversight necessary to ensure that implementation of FMZ 19 remains consistent with permit requirements and environmental commitments while documenting the effectiveness of the fuel modification treatments.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
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AWARD OF CONTRACT TO BURNBOT, INC. FOR FUEL MODIFICATION ZONE 19
IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES AND APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT
WITH LAGUNA CANYON FOUNDATION FOR ENHANCED BIOLOGICAL MONITORING
AND REPORTING
June 23, 2026
Funding for the proposed BurnBot agreement and the Laguna Canyon Foundation amendment is available within existing wildfire mitigation funds previously budgeted for implementation of FMZ 19. Under the City's existing agreement with Nature's Image, FMZ 19 was originally allocated $939,066. During the solicitation process, Nature's Image submitted a proposed contract amendment reducing the cost of FMZ 19 implementation to $845,075. While the proposal represented a reduction from the originally budgeted amount, staff determined that greater value and cost savings could be achieved through the competitive solicitation process. The recommended BurnBot agreement, combined with the proposed $20,124 amendment to the Laguna Canyon Foundation agreement, will allow the City to complete FMZ 19 at a substantially lower cost than both the originally budgeted amount and the revised proposal submitted by Nature's Image, while maintaining all required wildfire mitigation and environmental protection objectives.
As a result, the City will realize significant cost savings compared to the originally anticipated implementation cost, and no additional appropriation is required.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The proposed project was previously evaluated as part of the Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project (FMZs 16 and 19) and is consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration and associated environmental permitting completed for that project. The recommended actions consist solely of implementing the previously approved FMZ 19 fuel modification activities and do not constitute a substantial change to the approved project. No changes to the project, circumstances, or environmental impacts have occurred that would require subsequent environmental review. Accordingly, no further environmental review is required pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and 15168. In addition, the project consists of vegetation management activities undertaken for the purpose of reducing wildfire hazards and protecting life and property. The project is therefore statutorily exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080(b)(4) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15269(c), which exempt specific actions necessary to prevent or mitigate an emergency.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Request for Proposals FD-26-004 – Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services (Pgs. 5-278)
2. BurnBot Proposal (Pgs. 279-291)
3. Professional Services Agreement with BurnBot (Pgs. 292-317)
4. Laguna Canyon Foundation Amendment (Pgs. 318-321)
Submitted By:
. Approved: .David A Kiff
Niko King, Fire Chief Dave Kiff, City Manager
Report Prepared By: Coordinated With:
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AWARD OF CONTRACT TO BURNBOT, INC. FOR FUEL MODIFICATION ZONE 19
IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES AND APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT
WITH LAGUNA CANYON FOUNDATION FOR ENHANCED BIOLOGICAL MONITORING
AND REPORTING
June 23, 2026
Kirsten Gallacher, Senior Administrative
Analyst
Chris Gort, Fire Safety Inspector
Patrick Donegan, Assistant City Attorney
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RFP FD-26-004
Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services
CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (“RFP”)
INVITATION NO. FD-26-004
WILDFIRE MITIGATION VEGETATION REDUCTION SERVICES
RFP Submission Due
Date:
May 13, 2026, 5:00 pm PDT
Project Manager(s): Robert Montaghami
Fire Marshal
Fire Department
[email protected]
(949) 497-0352
RFP Administrator: Kirsten Gallacher
Senior Administrative Analyst
Laguna Beach Fire Department
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (949) 464-6683
City of Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach Fire Department
505 Forest Avenue
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Interested parties may obtain a copy of this RFP by accessing the City of Laguna Beach portal:
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/do-business-here/rfps-bids Attachment 1
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RFP FD-26-004
Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services 2
I. OBJECTIVE
The City of Laguna Beach (“City”) is seeking proposals from qualified proposers (hereinafter “Contractor” or “Contractors”) interested in providing Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services. The objective of this Request for Proposal (“RFP”) solicitation is to identify the highest-qualified Contractor whose proposal best complies with the requirements of this RFP and any attachments, including the Scope of Services specified in Attachment A (“Scope of Services” or “Services”), and provides the most comprehensive solution for the City’s needs. This RFP and the attached Scope of Services collectively make up the “Project”. The successful Contractor will be required to enter into a Professional Services Agreement (“Agreement”) with the City for the duration of the Project. An example of the Agreement is attached to this RFP as Attachment B (“Template Professional Services Contractor Agreement”).
II. BACKGROUND
The City of Laguna Beach was founded on June 29, 1927, and is a small town of picturesque beaches, hiking trails, a walkable downtown, and summer art festivals.
Located in southwest Orange County, Laguna Beach occupies 8.84 square miles, has a population of 23,000 and welcomes over six million visitors each year. The City provides a full range of services, including recreational activities, cultural arts events, public works maintenance of streets, beaches, and parks, transit operations, community development, administrative services, police, fire, and marine safety protection and wastewater services.
Laguna Beach operates under a council-manager form of government. Policy-making and legislative authority are vested in a five-person City Council. The City Manager carries out the policies and ordinances of the City Council, oversees the day-to-day operations of the City, and appoints department heads.
The City continues to maintain and expand an extensive network of fuel modification zones (FMZ) around exterior portions of the City and in many interior canyons. Vegetation is reduced within FMZs to help slow the spread of wildfire around neighborhoods adjacent to the wildland areas. The objective of the City’s Wildfire Mitigation Program is to achieve a reduction in potential wildfire fire line intensity by reducing fuel sources. Reducing fire line intensity can slow the pace of a fire which provides fire personnel with valuable time to deploy resources to the fire.
Standards for maintenance and development of FMZ’s is established by environmental permitting for each project, but is typically performed in accordance with the City of Laguna Beach FMZ Treatment Protocol, which defines maintenance of a percentage of desired native vegetative cover, prevention of erosion and geologic instability, and prevention of the establishment of non-native species in order to provide desired fire safety improvements while protecting habitat and aesthetic values.
This document solicits contractors who can conduct field operations and have demonstrated capacity to implement a new fuel modification zone. Environmental permitting and related activity is not included in this solicitation and is performed by other City staff and contractors.
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III. SUBMITTAL INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS
A. TENTATIVE RFP SCHEDULE AND PROJECT TIMELINE
The following is a tentative schedule of the RFP key dates. While the City will attempt to maintain this schedule, the following dates are projections, and the City reserves the right to modify this schedule as needed to accommodate this completion of this RFP process.
Description Date
Advertise for Proposals April 29, 2026, 09:00 am PDT
Deadline for Written Questions May 4, 2026, 5:00 pm PDT City Response to Questions May 5, 2026, 5:00 pm PDT
Bid Closing May 13, 2026, 5:00 pm PDT
Interviews (as applicable) May 14, 2026
City Council Award of Contract TBD (Prior to July 1, 2026) B. SUBMITTAL DEADLINE AND FORMAT; ADDENDUM
Proposals are due on May 13, 2026 at 5:00 pm PDT (RFP Submission Due Date). Proposals and any required attachments will only be accepted in Portable Document Format (PDF) via the City’s PlanetBids portal no later than the RFP Proposal Due Date. The contractor’s cost file shall be integrated into the Proposal document. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure its proposal and all attachments are loaded on PlanetBids before the stated deadline and in the required format stated herein. Proposals submitted by any other method such as hard copy or email, or proposals that fail to completely upload, may result in disqualification.
Changes to the RFP itself shall only be made by the City via a formal written addendum published and distributed through the City’s PlanetBids portal and shall become a part of the RFP document.
C. PROPOSAL CONTENT
All proposals shall include the following:
1. Cover Letter and Statement of Interest. A cover letter summarizing key elements of Contractor’s proposal, and a brief statement describing why Contractor has an interest in this RFP and why it would be the City’s best choice.
2. Contractor Business Information. Provide Contractor’s business information, including primary contact information.
3. Experience/Qualifications of Contractor’s Team. Provide information concerning Contractor’s experience and qualifications directly related to 7 8 of 672
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the Scope of Services. Define the experience of the Project Manager and other key personnel, and identify all subcontractors assigned to the Project who will comprise the Contractor’s team.
4. Approach/Methodology. The contractor shall provide a detailed explanation of its approach and methodology to perform the Scope Services, including a proposed schedule, and demonstrate specific techniques that may be implemented to successfully achieve the provisions of the Project.
5. References/Project History. Provide references for similar projects Contractor has completed within the last five (5) years. Include a brief description of the services, the agency or firm names, and contact information for each reference. Preference will be placed on references that are local government entities. The City reserves the right to contact any reference provided.
6. Proposed Cost File. Provide a cost proposal as a separate file in PlanetBids, with a total lump sum price for all the services provided by Contractor to successfully complete the Project within the estimated performance period. Include a breakdown of the individual Services within the total lump sum (as may be necessary), and the hourly rates for each category of employee or subcontractors required to perform the Scope of Services.
7. Other Information. Include any other information you consider relevant to the proposal.
Proposals that do not include the above-listed Proposal Content may be considered incomplete and will be evaluated accordingly.
IV. EVALUATION, SELECTION, AND AWARD PROCEDURES
A. PROPOSAL EVALUATION CRITERIA
Proposals shall provide point-by-point response to all sections of this RFP in a clear and concise manner. The City intends to evaluate Contractors based upon the data presented in the proposals submitted in response to this specific RFP.
The City may use some or all the following criteria in its evaluation and comparison of proposals submitted. The criteria listed below are not necessarily all-inclusive, and the order in which they appear is not intended to indicate their relative importance. The City reserves the right to modify the evaluation criteria as deemed appropriate prior to the commencement of evaluation.
1. Conformance to the RFP (15 Points)
i. Demonstrated thorough understanding of the Project and the ability to deploy the Scope of Services on schedule.
2. Qualifications and Experience (40 Points)
i. Demonstrated relevant experience and expertise of Contractor and 8 9 of 672
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Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services 5
Contractor’s team and/or subcontractors conducting similar projects of comparable complexity and magnitude, particularly for government agencies.
3. Project Scope/Methodology (25 Points)
i. A clear and concise description of the Contractor’s approach, methodology, and techniques to execute the Project on task and on time.
4. Cost File (20 Points)
i. Fair, reasonable, and competitive cost for all Services to complete the Project.
B. SELECTION PROCESS
Proposals received as specified will initially be evaluated by City staff or staff designee(s). During the initial evaluation period, the City may generate a “most qualified” list of Contractor(s) determined in accordance with the above Proposal Evaluation Criteria. The “most qualified” Contractor(s) may be invited for interviews for further evaluation. The City reserves the right to determine whether a proposal meets the specifications and requirements of this RFP and reject any proposal that, in the City’s sole and absolute discretion, fails to meet the detail or intent of the requirements. The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
C. INTERVIEWS
The City reserves the right to conduct interviews with any Contractor. Should the City pursue scheduling interviews, they are targeted to be scheduled May 14, 2026.
D. NOTICE OF AWARD; AGREEMENT
The contract award will be made to the Contractor selected from all proposals with implementation of services to follow the award (“Notice of Intent to Award”).
However, this RFP does not indicate any obligation by the City to award a contract to any successful Contractor. The City, in the selection process and in general, reserves the right to make an award to the Contractor that meets the Scope of Services stated in this RFP, or to award multiple contracts for Services if deemed most advantageous to the City.
Upon Notice of Intent to Award, the successful Contractor will be required to execute and deliver a signed Agreement to the City, including proof of all required insurance as set forth in the Agreement, within thirty (30) calendar days following the Notice of Intent to Award. If the successful Contractor is unwilling or unable to execute the Agreement as required by this RFP, the City has the right to request a subsequent Contractor to enter into the Agreement with the City.
V. TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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A. Acceptance of Terms and Conditions. Submission of a proposal indicates acceptance by the Contractor submitting the proposal of the terms, conditions and specifications contained in this RFP and Agreement.
B. Precedence of Terms and Conditions. All terms and conditions of the Agreement are hereby incorporated into the terms and conditions of this RFP. In the event of a conflict of terms and conditions between the RFP document and the Agreement, the terms and conditions expressed in the Agreement shall take precedence.
C. Exceptions. Any proposed exceptions, additions, and/or deletions to this RFP and/or the Scope of Services must be clearly stated in the proposal. The City will not accept any proposed substantive changes to the Agreement, including the stipulated insurance requirements and other contractual terms therein. Proposals should only be submitted if there is a clear understanding that the Contractor can execute the City’s Agreement without any substantial changes.
D. Public Record. All proposals submitted in response to this RFP shall become the property of the CITY and are subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250 et seq.), unless otherwise exempt by law.
Proposers are advised not to include proprietary or confidential information unless it is clearly marked and exempt from disclosure.
E. Late Proposals. Any proposal which is not received by the City prior to the deadline date and time set forth in this RFP shall not be considered. The City assumes no responsibility or liability for the transmission, delay, or delivery of a proposal.
F. Specificity of Information. No verbal or written information which is obtained other than through this RFP or its addendum shall be binding on the City. No employee of the City is authorized to interpret any portion of this RFP or give information as to the requirements of the RFP in addition to that contained in or amended to this written RFP document.
G. Non-Discrimination. Contractor agrees that in carrying out its responsibilities under this RFP or any Agreement, in particular with regard to the employment of persons and subcontractors working on the Services, it will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, age, or handicap. In the event any of the Services performed by Contractor hereunder is subcontracted to subcontractor (with approval of the City as required herein), subcontractor shall contain a similar provision.
H. Errors and Omissions. This RFP cannot identify each specific, individual task required to successfully and completely to implement this Project. The City relies on the professionalism and competence of the Contractor to be knowledgeable of the general areas identified in the Scope of Work and to include in their proposals all materials, equipment, required tasks and subtasks, personnel commitments, man-hours, labor, direct and indirect costs, etc. Contractor shall not take advantage of any errors and/or omissions in this RFP document or in the Contractor’s specifications submitted with their proposals. Where such errors or 10 11 of 672
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omissions are discovered by the City, full instructions will be given by the City in the form of an addendum.
I. Proposal Validity. Unless otherwise noted by the Contractor, all proposals shall be held valid for a period of one hundred eighty (180) days.
J. Right of Rejection. The City reserves the right to:
• Accept or reject any and all proposals or any part of any proposal, and waive any informality, minor defects, or technicality in any proposal. • Award all or any portion of the Scope of Services described in this RFP to one or more Contractors.
• Request clarification of any information contained in the proposal. • Solicit new proposals on the same Scope of Services, or on a modified Scope of Services, which may include portions of the original RFP, as the City may deem necessary.
• Disregard all non-conforming, non-responsive, or conditional proposals. • Reject the response of any Contractor who does not pass the evaluation to the City’s satisfaction.
• Allow for the correction of errors and/or omissions.
• Negotiate the Scope of Services and/or terms of the Agreement with the successful Contractor(s).
The City further reserves the right to negotiate final pricing with the most qualified Contractor(s). All submitted cost proposals will be reviewed and considered for the purpose of assisting the City in determining a fair and reasonable compensation with the most qualified Contractor(s). The City will attempt to negotiate an Agreement with the most qualified Contractor(s) at a compensation which the City determines is fair and reasonable. Should the City be unable to negotiate a satisfactory Agreement with the most qualified Contractor(s), negotiations may be terminated, and the City will undertake negotiations with the second qualified Contractor(s) and so on, until a Contractor or Contractors are selected, or the City rejects all proposals.
K. City Not Obligated to Complete Scope; No Obligation to Award. This RFP does not obligate the City to complete the Scope of Services or Project, or award or enter into a contract or Agreement on the basis of any proposal submitted in response to this RFP. The City reserves the right to cancel the solicitation or parts of the solicitation if it is in its best interest. City reserves the right to award multiple contracts for this RFP if is deemed most advantageous to the City.
L. Non-Compliance. Contractors and/or proposals that do not meet the stated requirements for this RFP may be considered noncompliant and may be disqualified, unless such noncompliance is waived by the City. During the evaluation process, the City reserves the right to request additional information or 11 12 of 672
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Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services 8
clarification from those submitting proposals, and to allow corrections of errors and/or omissions
M. Determination of Responsiveness and Responsibility. The City shall have sole authority in determining the responsiveness and responsibility of any and all Proposals. For Proposals containing exceptions to specifications and/or requirements, the City shall have sole authority in determining the extent to which exceptions affect the responsiveness and responsibility of any and all Proposals.
N. Work Product. All data, documents and other work product generated or developed during the term of the Agreement will become the property of the City.
O. No Bidder Reimbursement. The City recognizes that significant effort is expended in the preparation of a thorough and responsible proposal. However, a proposal is a voluntary response on the part of the Contractor, and this RFP does not commit the City to pay any costs incurred in its preparation. The City will not be liable for any costs incurred by any Contractors prior to an award of a contract.
The City may require the final Contractor(s) to provide on-site presentations and demonstrations of the product(s)/service(s) proposed by the Contractor(s). All costs associated with the demonstrations or follow-up interviews are the sole obligation of the Contractor(s).
P. Gratuity Prohibition. Contractor(s) shall not offer any gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value to any official, employee, or agent of the City for any purpose as it may be perceived as an attempt to influence consideration of the proposal. Submission of a Proposal indicates the Contractor certifies that they have not paid nor agreed to pay any person, other than a bona fide employee of the Contractor, a fee or a brokerage resulting from the award of the contract.
Q. Contact with City Personnel or Entities. During the RFP procurement process, proposal evaluation process and proposal selection process, the RFP Administrator serves as the primary point of contact for all matters pertaining to this RFP. The contractor shall not contact any City Councilmembers, personnel, or entities other than the RFP Administrator for matters regarding this Project until conclusion of the entire procurement process. Unauthorized contact may result in disqualification of proposals.
R. Contract Administrator. The Laguna Beach Fire Department will be the administrator of the Agreement.
S. Insurance Requirements. The selected CONTRACTOR must provide all required insurance documentation, as outlined in the Agreement, prior to commencement of work.
T. Compliance with all Applicable Laws. Contractor declares that it shall comply with all licenses, statutes, ordinances, regulations, and requirements of all governmental entities, including federal, state, county or municipal, whether now in force or hereinafter enacted, including, but not limited to, appropriate contractor licensing and business licensing, as may be required.
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U. Inclusive Cost Proposal. Contractor’s Cost Proposal shall include any and all applicable licenses, insurance coverage, endorsements, bonding and if necessary, any wage compliance deemed necessary to perform the Scope of Services as part of the Project described in this RFP. City will not be responsible for reimbursing Contractor for any charges not included in the cost proposal that are incurred in securing these requirements.
V. Federal Provisions. When funding for the services is provided, in whole or in part, by an agency of the federal government, Consultant shall also fully and adequately comply with the provisions included in Exhibit “A-1” (Federal Requirements) attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference (“Federal Requirements”) in the attached Template Professional Services Agreement. With respect to any conflict between such Federal Requirements and the terms of this Agreement and/or the provisions of state law, the more stringent requirement shall control.
W. Subcontractor(s). The selected Contractor shall be the primary contractor performing the primary functions of the Agreement. If any portion of the Agreement is to be performed by a subcontractor, this must be clearly set forth in the Proposal submittal as to what part(s) is/are to be delegated. City reserves the right to reject any proposal wherein use of subcontractors significantly affects the ability of the Contractor to function as the primary contractor on the awarded Agreement. The Contractor will be at all times responsible for the acts and errors or omissions of its subcontractors or joint participants and persons directly or indirectly employed by them. Acceptance or rejection of a contractor’s request to use subcontractors is at the sole discretion of City.
Attachment(s): Attachment A: Scope of Services
Attachment B: Draft Professional Services Agreement
Attachment C: City’s Fuel Modification Treatment Protocol Attachment D: Final Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 13 14 of 672
ATTACHMENT A: Scope of Services
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SCOPE OF SERVICES
Objective:
The City of Laguna Beach (“City”) is seeking proposals from qualified proposers (hereinafter “Contractor” or “Contractors”) interested in providing Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services. The objective of this Request for Proposal (“RFP”) solicitation is to identify the highestqualified Contractor whose proposal best complies with the requirements of this RFP and any attachments, including the Scope of Services specified in Attachment A (“Scope of Services” or “Services”), and provides the most comprehensive solution for the City’s needs. This RFP and the attached Scope of Services collectively make up the “Project”. The successful Contractor will be required to enter into a Professional Services Agreement (“Agreement”) with the City for the duration of the Project. An example of the Agreement is attached to this RFP as Attachment B (“Template Professional Services Contractor Agreement”).
Contract Term:
The contract awarded from the result of this solicitation will provide services for 1-year or upon completion of the implementation of Fuel Modification Zone 19 per final discretion and approval by Department and City.
Consultant Responsibilities:
Fuel Modification Zone 19 (FMZ 19) consists of 26.9 acres of undeveloped and generally unmodified land which involves steep, mountainous terrain with natural hazards such as presence of poison oak, rattlesnakes, ticks, spiders, and other wildlife and hazards. FMZ 19 is generally located behind homes with 100 feet of structural development. Access to the site is sometimes indirect, from the end of blocks of homes or off trails. FMZ 19, designated for new development, is generally in an unmodified natural state, comprised of established mixed chaparral or Coastal Sage Scrub.
In order to comply with environmental permitting, the City contracts with a qualified biologist who accompanies crews, identifies sensitive species and flags areas to be treated, and monitor vegetation removal for permit compliance. Vegetation management contractors are expected to work closely and cooperatively with monitors to achieve environmental permit compliance. Field operations require survey of work sites for nesting birds 48-hours prior to work initiation during the period between January 1 and September 15 each year, or as required by the qualified biologist and permitting. Bird survey work is conducted by the contract environmental monitors, who will notify the City and vegetation management contractors of site accessibility.
Environmental monitors will also be responsible for identifying native and non-native plants and shrubs.
Treatments within FMZ 19 will occur within 100 feet of combustible primary structures, excluding areas of irrigated and maintained ornamental vegetation, sensitive biological resources, certain areas of geological instability, and archeological or cultural sites, to create a native vegetative 15 16 of 672
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cover of approximately 50%, with all non-native plant material (including unmaintained ornamentals) and dead/dying plant material above 3 inches in diameter removed from the site.
The majority of existing root systems for perennial plants should remain intact, and regrowth on trees and large shrubs will be pruned (from below or from above, as appropriate) to reduce their original crown height by half, with no peeled bark or projecting stobs. The remaining vegetation will generally be in clumps no larger than 400 square feet and with at least 6 feet between clumps, with no additional large openings created. Haul paths will be minimized and mitigated. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33% or 1:3 grade) will be mulched with cut native vegetation to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs.
See Attachment C for the City’s Fuel Modification Treatment Protocol. See Attachment D for Final Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration.
VEGETATION REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL:
All dead and cut material must be disposed of as follows: All non-native material and trash will be removed from the site, placed in a truck or dumpster and hauled to a green waste recycler in coordination with the project biologist (contractor will pay all dump fees). Native material may be chipped and used as mulch on-site in areas of moderate slope to help reduce erosion and weed propagation, up to a depth of one foot. Native material unable to be reused on site will be hauled to a green waste recycler, though efforts will be made to reuse as much native material on site as possible. Contractor is not responsible for removal of any large waste items that cannot be removed by hand (example: vehicles, refrigerators, etc.) Native vegetation under 3 inches in diameter, live or dead, may be processed with hand tools on site and spread in place as mulch, as an alternative to hauling and chipping, if it is cut into pieces 12 inches long or shorter, lays flat on the ground and total mulch depth does not exceed 12 inches.
All coarse non-native material (e.g., logs, woody debris, Pampas Grass leaves, Palm fronds, etc.), live or dead must be removed from the site, including any material dumped in the Project Area by residents or others. Complete removal of certain priority invasive species, including roots, may be required at the discretion of the project manager. Such species may include California Invasive Plant Council rated highly invasive species, California Native Plant Society Early-DetectionRapid-Response species, USDA listed species, High Priority species listed on the Natural Communities Coalition Priority List. Fine material treated with herbicide (e.g., non-native grasses and annual weeds) may be left on site with approval from the project manager.
New Development areas may require extensive hauling of green waste and related materials.
Trees Removal or Pruning:
Trees within the project area are subject to fuel modification or removal. The contractor will be tasked to remove non-native trees, or alternatively, to conduct pruning and thinning to remove ladder fuels/lower limbs to a height of 8 feet, remove dead limbs both on the ground and in the tree, and to remove crown density both within individual trees or groups of trees. Smaller dead trees may be removed by the contractor. Large/mature and complex dead trees may be exempted from treatment when removal requires skills of a professional arborist or requires specialized 16 17 of 672
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equipment to prevent damage to neighboring development, as determined by City staff. If the contractor possesses professional ability to remove such large, hazard trees, they may be removed by the contractor for an additional agreed-to rate.
WORK RESTRICTIONS AND DIRECTIVES:
Work is often conducted on private property within the City. The City has acquired owner permission to trespass in many cases, however communication with residents is often required prior to conducting site work. This responsibility rests with the City project manager and contract staff and is not the responsibility of the contractor.
Per the City Municipal Code, work will be performed during normal work hours (0700 to 1700, Monday through Friday). To the extent possible or practicable, work will be performed to minimize inconvenience to and disturbance of adjacent residents. Work is not permitted on Federal Holidays.
Work may be limited by weather conditions including rainfall or fire weather conditions. Under severe conditions the City may require a contractor to suspend performance until the adverse weather conditions are abated.
Work may be limited by saturated hillside conditions typical of mid-winter months. These restrictions generally apply during and immediately after heavy rainfall and include one to two days of drying post heavy rain. Work is dictated by the terms of environmental permitting, and the contractor must work with other City staff and contractors in assuring that areas to be treated are evaluated by biologists for environmental conditions as prescribed in permits, as required.
Contractors may be onsite when State or Federal agency inspectors conduct an unannounced inspection. In this case they shall inform City staff immediately of the inspector’s presence.
The contractor must report any accidents or property damage of any type occurring during the conduct of the City work to the City project manager.
Selected contractors shall obtain and maintain all City contractors required insurance and related requirements as a contract condition.
The selected contractor will not be required to meet competitive wages or other requirements unless stipulated in this solicitation, except as mandated by State or Federal law.
WORK SCHEDULING AND DELIVERY:
The contractor shall meet the following minimum conditions as a contract obligation:
• The contractor shall designate a senior project manager who shall set schedules and liaison with the City project manager as required. The contractor’s Senior manager shall be responsible for the provision of a weekly or monthly work schedule that meets the satisfaction of the City and shall manage any exceptions required.
• The contractor shall also assign a field supervisor daily to crews working in the field. The supervisor must be fluent in English and the primary language of other employees assigned.
To the extent possible, the contractor shall consistently assign the same supervisory personnel to the City work. If multiple crews are operating simultaneously, the field supervisor will serve as the primary supervisor for all crews.
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• The contractor shall field an average minimum crew of six personnel (including the supervisor) to City FMZ’s under maintenance daily, Monday-Friday, except holidays, so long as contracted work areas remain available for treatment. The contractor shall report monthly on its daily worksite staffing. (Crew staffing accountability will be averaged over a month-long period and may flex within the 30-day period as needed). If necessary to meet the scheduled timeline, the contractor will be required to field additional personnel. • The contractor shall accomplish clearance at an average rate of 0.5 acre per day or greater in new development FMZ’s, calculated on a 30-day average. • The contractor will be responsible for placement of straw wattles, jute netting or similar erosion control at the direction of City staff or the project manager for the purposes of post-clearance erosion control. Erosion control materials will be acquired by the contractor for this purpose as requested by City staff and reimbursed at cost plus 5%. Erosion control activities shall be incorporated by the contractor into the cost of fuels modification. • The City project manager may adjust these conditions given environmental or other circumstances, as required.
• The use of herbicide is strictly prohibited for the implementation of Zone 19. • The City’s project manager will direct scheduling and inspect quality assurance, then provide the contractor with at least two weeks’ notice when work needs to be conducted. The city staff or project manager will also certify treated work areas as complete. • The contractor’s proposal shall reflect a per acre cost basis.
Personnel working on the project must be able to demonstrate thorough competence and documentation of training in the following areas:
• Project Orientation (purpose of project, site, methods, mitigation measures, etc.) • Site Environmental permits and associated requirements (instruction by City or other contract staff to be provided)
• Chainsaw Safety – Safe Operational Use and Safety Equipment/Clothing • Plant & Wildlife Safety (e.g., Poison Oak, Bushrue, Rattlesnake, Ticks, etc.) • Fire Safety (including fire extinguisher training)
• Working on Steep Slopes
• Working in Hot Weather
• Plant and Wildlife Identification (with focus on special-status species) 18 19 of 672
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• Fuel Modification Standards and Percent Cover Goals for Project • Pruning Techniques
• Low Impact Ingress, Egress and During Implementation
WORKER TRAINING:
Annually, the City project manager will conduct on-site training of up to 4 hours in length to address and/or review any of the above subjects, as necessary. Some of this training will apply to all workers and some only to the crew foremen. The contractor will maintain records and document worker training.
If, during project implementation, the City project manager identifies additional training needs to assure worker safety and/or meet project objectives, additional worker training may be required.
FIRE, SAFETY, AND AIR QUALITY:
• All personal protective equipment (PPE) must be in a serviceable condition, and the contractor is responsible for providing all workers with access to and use of PPE. • All personnel operating chainsaws must always wear required PPE, including leather boots, gloves, long pants, chainsaw chaps, hard hat, appropriate eye protection (ANSI Z87) and ear protection (NRR of 33 recommended).
• All personnel operating power tools other than chainsaws or working within 50 feet of a power tool being operated will wear all applicable PPE mentioned above except for chaps. • All other workers in the area will wear all appropriate PPE mentioned above except for chaps, hard hat, and ear protection.
• Snake gaiters are recommended for all workers (other than chainsaw operators). • Chainsaws, brush cutters, chippers and other power tools must be in serviceable condition and all factory-installed safety devices must be functioning (i.e., chain brake, chain catcher, throttle-trigger interlock, spark arrestor, etc.). Chains are to be kept sharp and properly tensioned, and cuts made at full throttle to reduce chances of kickback. • Chainsaws will be operated in accordance with CAL/OSHA Regulations (California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Sections 3225 and 6283).
• Workers will maintain adequate spacing when using chainsaws and other power tools (i.e., at least 10 feet or 1 ½ the height of vegetation, whichever is greater). Workers will avoid working directly downhill of other workers whenever practicable. • Workers will exercise extreme care when operating on steep slopes, making sure that they 19 20 of 672
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have stable footing before making cuts, and working from the uphill of vegetation being cut whenever practicable. Workers will exercise care to avoid objects rolling or sliding downhill as well. The chain brake will be engaged at any time when more than 2 steps are being taken between cuts, whenever a hand is removed from the saw and before starting or re-starting the engine.
• When a woody plant is to be fully removed, it will be cut parallel to the ground and within 4 inches of the ground to avoid creating tripping/impalement hazards. • Contractors shall comply with the CAL/OSHA Heat Illness Prevention Program, Title 8, Section 3395).
• Sanitary facilities meeting the standards of State and local laws will be provided as necessary by the contractor for all contractor personnel. WORKER SAFETY • Contractor will furnish flagmen for hazardous traffic situations whenever deemed necessary by the project manager, LBFD personnel, crew foreman or local regulations. • Contractor shall provide and restock as necessary at least one basic first aid kit at each staging area. First aid kits and their use shall comply with applicable CAL/OSHA standards (California Code of Regulations Title 8, Section 1512). • All chainsaws and other gasoline-powered tools will be operated with functional spark arrestors in place. Care will be taken to avoid setting down power tools in combustible materials (e.g., dry grass, etc.).
• Chains will be kept sharp and properly tensioned and lubricated and cuts will be made to reduce binding and the chance of creating sparks or burning. Use of vegetable-based chain lubricants is recommended to minimize contamination of the area with petroleum-based products.
• All power tools will be fueled in an area clear of fire hazards. Tools will be allowed to cool for 5 min before refueling. Equipment will be started at least 10 feet away from the fueling area.
Fueling over a plastic tub is recommended. Fuel spills will be cleaned up immediately. Engine fuel is not to be used as a cleaning solvent.
• Chainsaws and other power tools will not be used in the Project Area on days when there is a Red Flag Warning in place.
• Appropriate firefighting backpack water pumps and a set of basic firefighting hand tools (spade, McLeod and Pulaski or similar tool complement) will be kept at each staging area. In work zones where parts of the treatment area are more than 300 feet from a staging area, additional fire caches will be staged (and their location communicated to all workers) so that there is always at least one fire cache within 300 feet of where power tools are being used. • No smoking will be permitted within the Project Area at any time. 20 21 of 672
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• Vehicles driven into the treatment area will be parked only in areas cleared of all flammable vegetation.
• Chainsaws and other gasoline-powered tools will not be operated on days where the Air Quality Index (AQI) is Orange or higher. Current local AQI information can be obtained at the Environmental Protection Agency’s website: airnow.gov.
EROSION CONTROL:
Prevention:
• When hauling brush, efforts will be made to use different routes when practicable to avoid creating skid trails. Haul routes should, wherever practicable, cut across slopes at a low angle and avoid the fall line (i.e., straight down a slope). When feasible, brush will be carried off the ground instead of dragging to minimize damage to remaining vegetation. • Work will not be conducted in the treatment area during or for 2 days after a significant rainfall event (more than 0.25 inches) in order to avoid compaction and skid damage to the soil (and to maintain worker safety) unless the project manager visits the work area and determines that the soil is dry enough to avoid damage or undue risk to workers.
Mitigation:
• Existing erosion control measures will be evaluated to determine what needs to be repaired or replaced to maintain effective erosion control in areas where it is still necessary. Measures utilized may include weed-free burlap straw wattles, jute netting, all-natural fiber mats, mulching and/or seeding with a suitable mixture of native plants. The visual appearance of the area will be considered when choosing appropriate erosion control measures and determining how they are to be implemented.
• The area will be monitored by the contractor after each significant rain event to determine the effectiveness of erosion control measures and amend them as necessary. 21 22 of 672
-1- PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
UPDATED 2-2026
CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
1. PARTIES AND DATE.
This Agreement #__________ is made and entered into this _____ day of ________, 2026, by and between the City of Laguna Beach, a municipal corporation organized under the laws of the State of California with its principal place of business at 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California 92651 ("City") and [***INSERT NAME OF COMPANY], a [INSERT TYPE OF BUSINESS; I.E., CORPORATION (INCLUDE STATE OF INCORPORATION), LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP, ETC.***], with its principal place of business at [***INSERT ADDRESS***] ("Consultant"). City and Consultant are sometimes individually referred to herein as "Party" and collectively as "Parties."
2. RECITALS.
2.1 Consultant.
Consultant desires to perform and assume responsibility for the provision of certain professional services required by the City on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
Consultant represents that it is experienced in providing Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services to public clients, is licensed in the State of California, and is familiar with the plans of City.
2.2 Project.
City desires to engage Consultant to render such professional services for Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services ("Project") as set forth in this Agreement.
3. TERMS.
3.1 Scope of Services and Term.
3.1.1 General Scope of Services. Consultant promises and agrees to furnish to the City all labor, materials, tools, equipment, services, and incidental and customary work necessary to fully and adequately supply the professional Wildfire Mitigation Vegetation Reduction Services ("Services"). The Services are more particularly described in Exhibit "A" attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. All Services shall be subject to, and performed in accordance with, this Agreement, the exhibits attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference, and all applicable local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations.
Attachment B
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UPDATED 2-2026
3.1.2 Term. The term of this Agreement shall be from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027, unless earlier terminated as provided herein. Consultant shall complete the Services within the term of this Agreement, and shall meet any other established schedules and deadlines. The Parties may, by mutual, written consent, extend the term of this Agreement if necessary to complete the Services.
3.2 Compensation.
3.2.1 Compensation. Consultant shall receive compensation, including authorized reimbursements, for all Services rendered under this Agreement at the rates set forth in Exhibit "C" attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. The total compensation shall not exceed [***INSERT AMOUNT WRITTEN OUT] ($[***INSERT NUMBER]) without written approval of the City Council or City Manager, as applicable. Extra Work may be authorized, as described below, and if authorized, will be compensated at the rates and manner set forth in this Agreement.
3.2.2 Payment of Compensation. Consultant shall submit to City a monthly invoice which indicates work completed and hours of Services rendered by Consultant. The invoice shall describe the amount of Services provided since the initial commencement date, or since the start of the subsequent billing periods, as appropriate, through the date of the invoice.
City shall, within 30 days of receiving such invoice, review the invoice and pay all non-disputed and approved charges. If the City disputes any of Consultant's fees, the City shall give written notice to Consultant within thirty (30) days of receipt of an invoice of any disputed fees set forth therein. Payment shall not constitute acceptance of any Services completed by Consultant. The making of final payment shall not constitute a waiver of any claims by the City for any reason whatsoever. Failure to submit an invoice within ninety (90) days of any service(s) or good(s) provided shall constitute an absolute waiver of any right to payment for such service(s) and/or good(s), and City shall have no obligation to review, process, or pay any invoice submitted after the expiration of the ninety (90) day period.
3.2.3 Reimbursement for Expenses. Consultant shall not be reimbursed for any expenses unless authorized in writing by City, or included in Exhibit "C" of this Agreement.
3.2.4 Extra Work. At any time during the term of this Agreement, City may request that Consultant perform Extra Work. As used herein, "Extra Work" means any work which is determined by City to be necessary for the proper completion of the Project, but which the Parties did not reasonably anticipate would be necessary at the execution of this Agreement.
Consultant shall not perform, nor be compensated for, Extra Work without written authorization from the City.
3.3 Responsibilities of Consultant.
3.3.1 Independent Contractor; Control and Payment of Subordinates. The Services shall be performed by Consultant or under its supervision. Consultant will determine the means, methods and details of performing the Services subject to the requirements of this Agreement. City retains Consultant on an independent contractor basis and not as an employee.
Any personnel performing the Services on behalf of Consultant shall not be employees of City and shall at all times be under Consultant's exclusive direction and control. Neither City, or any 23 24 of 672
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UPDATED 2-2026
of its officials, officers, directors, employees or agents shall have control over the conduct of Consultant or any of Consultants officers, employees or agents, except as set forth in this Agreement. Consultant shall pay all wages, salaries, and other amounts due such personnel in connection with their performance of Services under this Agreement and as required by law.
Consultant shall be responsible for all reports and obligations respecting such additional personnel, including, but not limited to: social security taxes, income tax withholding, unemployment insurance, disability insurance, and workers' compensation insurance.
3.3.2 Schedule of Services. Consultant shall perform the Services in a prompt and timely manner and in accordance with the Schedule of Services set forth in Exhibit "B" attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. Consultant represents that it has the professional and technical personnel required to perform the Services expeditiously. Upon request of City, Consultant shall provide a more detailed schedule of anticipated performance to meet the Schedule of Services.
3.3.3 Conformance to Applicable Requirements. All work prepared by Consultant shall be subject to the approval of City.
3.3.4 Substitution of Key Personnel. Consultant has represented to City that certain key personnel will perform and coordinate the Services under this Agreement. Should one or more of such personnel become unavailable, Consultant may substitute other personnel of at least equal competence upon written approval of City. In the event that City and Consultant cannot agree as to the substitution of key personnel, City shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement for cause. The key personnel for performance of this Agreement are as follows:
[***INSERT NAME AND TITLE***].
3.3.5 City's Representative. The City hereby designates Andrew Hill, Deputy Fire Chief, or his/her designee, to act as its representative in all matters pertaining to the administration and performance of this Agreement ("City's Representative"). City's Representative shall have the power to act on behalf of the City for review and approval of all products submitted by Consultant but not the authority to enlarge the Scope of Services or change the total compensation due to Consultant under this Agreement. The City Manager shall be authorized to act on City's behalf and to execute all necessary documents which enlarge the Scope of Services or change the Consultant's total compensation subject to the provisions contained in this Agreement. Consultant shall not accept direction or orders from any person other than the City Manager, City's Representative or his/her designee.
3.3.6 Consultant's Representative. Consultant hereby designates [***INSERT NAME AND TITLE***], or his/her designee, to act as its representative for the performance of this Agreement ("Consultant's Representative"). Consultant's Representative shall have full authority to represent and act on behalf of the Consultant for all purposes under this Agreement. The Consultant's Representative shall supervise and direct the Services, using his/her best skill and attention, and shall be responsible for all means, methods, techniques, sequences, and procedures and for the satisfactory coordination of all portions of the Services under this Agreement.
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-4- PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
UPDATED 2-2026
3.3.7 Coordination of Services. Consultant agrees to work closely with City staff in the performance of Services and shall be available to City's staff, consultants and other staff at all reasonable times.
3.3.8 Standard of Care; Performance of Employees. Consultant shall perform all Services under this Agreement in a skillful and competent manner, consistent with the standards generally recognized as being employed by professionals in the same discipline in the State of California. Consultant represents and maintains that it is skilled in the professional calling necessary to perform the Services. Consultant warrants that all employees and subconsultants shall have sufficient skill and experience to perform the Services assigned to them. Consultant represents that it, its employees and subconsultants have all licenses, permits, qualifications and approvals of whatever nature that are legally required to perform the Services, and that such licenses and approvals shall be maintained throughout the term of this Agreement. Consultant shall perform, at its own cost and expense and without reimbursement from the City, any services necessary to correct errors or omissions which are caused by the Consultant's failure to comply with the standard of care provided for herein. Any employee of the Consultant or its subconsultants who is determined by the City to be uncooperative, incompetent, a threat to the adequate or timely completion of the Project, a threat to the safety of persons or property, or any employee who fails or refuses to perform the Services in a manner acceptable to the City, shall be promptly removed from the Project by the Consultant and shall not be re-employed to perform any of the Services or to work on the Project.
3.3.9 Period of Performance.
3.3.9.1 Consultant shall perform and complete all Services under this Agreement within the term set forth in Section 3.1.2 above (“Performance Time”). Consultant shall also perform the Services in strict accordance with any completion schedule or Project milestones described in Exhibits “A” or “B” attached hereto, or which may be separately agreed upon in writing by the City and Consultant (“Performance Milestones”). Consultant agrees that if the Services are not completed within the aforementioned Performance Time and/or pursuant to any such Performance Milestones developed pursuant to provisions of this Agreement, it is understood, acknowledged and agreed that the City will suffer damage.
3.3.9.2 Neither City nor Consultant shall be considered in default of this Agreement for delays in performance caused by circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the non-performing Party. For purposes of this Agreement, such circumstances include a Force Majeure Event. A Force Majeure Event shall mean an event that materially affects a Party’s performance and is one or more of the following: (1) Acts of God or other natural disasters; (2) terrorism or other acts of a public enemy; (3) orders of governmental authorities (including, without limitation, unreasonable and unforeseeable delay in the issuance of permits or approvals by governmental authorities that are required for the services); (4) strikes and other organized labor action occurring at the site and the effects thereof on the services, only to the extent such strikes and other organized labor action are beyond the control of Consultant and its subcontractors, and to the extent the effects thereof cannot be avoided by use of replacement workers; and (5) pandemics, epidemics or quarantine restrictions. For purposes of this section, “orders of governmental authorities,” includes ordinances, emergency proclamations and orders, rules to protect the public health, welfare and safety, and other actions of a public agency applicable to the services and Agreement.
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-5- PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
UPDATED 2-2026
3.3.9.3 Should a Force Majeure Event occur, the non-performing Party shall, within a reasonable time of being prevented from performing, give written notice to the other Party describing the circumstances preventing continued performance and the efforts being made to resume performance of this Agreement. Force Majeure Events and/or delays, regardless of the Party responsible for the delay, shall not entitle Consultant to any additional compensation.
Notwithstanding the foregoing in this section, the City may still terminate this Agreement in accordance with the termination provisions of this Agreement.
3.3.10 Laws and Regulations; Employee/Labor Certification.
3.3.10.1 Compliance with Laws. Consultant shall keep itself fully informed of and in compliance with all local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations in any manner affecting the performance of the Project or the Services, including all Cal/OSHA requirements, and shall give all notices required by law. Consultant shall be liable for all violations of such laws and regulations in connection with the Services and this Agreement. All violations of such laws and regulations shall be grounds for the City to terminate the Agreement for cause.
3.3.10.2 Employment Eligibility; Consultant. Consultant certifies that it fully complies with all requirements and restrictions of state and federal law respecting the employment of undocumented aliens, including, but not limited to, the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, as may be amended from time to time and shall require all subconsultants and sub-subconsultants to comply with the same. Consultant certifies that it has not committed a violation of any such law within the five (5) years immediately preceding the date of execution of this Agreement, and shall not violate any such law at any time during the term of the Agreement.
3.3.10.3 Equal Opportunity Employment. Consultant represents that it is an equal opportunity employer and it shall not discriminate against any subconsultant, employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, color, national origin, handicap, ancestry, sex or age. Such non-discrimination shall include, but not be limited to, all activities related to initial employment, upgrading, demotion, transfer, recruitment or recruitment advertising, layoff or termination. Consultant shall also comply with all relevant provisions of City's Minority Business Enterprise program, Affirmative Action Plan or other related programs or guidelines currently in effect or hereinafter enacted.
3.3.10.4 Air Quality. To the extent applicable, Consultant must fully comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations in furnishing or using equipment and/or providing services, including, but not limited to, emissions limits and permitting requirements imposed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and/or California Air Resources Board (CARB). Consultant shall indemnify City against any fines or penalties imposed by SCAQMD, CARB, or any other governmental or regulatory agency for violations of applicable laws, rules and/or regulations by Consultant, its subconsultants, or others for whom Consultant is responsible under its indemnity obligations provided for in this Agreement.
3.3.10.5 Water Quality Management and Compliance. Consultant shall keep itself and all subcontractors, staff, and employees fully informed of and in compliance with all local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations that may impact, or be implicated by the performance of the Services including, without limitation, all applicable provisions of the City’s ordinances regulating water quality and storm water; the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 26 27 of 672
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U.S.C. § 1251, et seq.); the California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act (Water Code § 13000 et seq.); and any and all regulations, policies, or permits issued pursuant to any such authority. Consultant must additionally comply with the lawful requirements of the City, and any other municipality, drainage district, or other local agency with jurisdiction over the location where the Services are to be conducted, regulating water quality and storm water discharges. City may seek damages from Consultant for delay in completing the Services caused by Consultant’s failure to comply with the laws, regulations and policies described in this Section, or any other relevant water quality law, regulation, or policy.
3.3.10.6 Safety. Consultant shall execute and maintain its work so as to avoid injury or damage to any person or property. In carrying out its Services, the Consultant shall at all times be in compliance with all applicable local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations, and shall exercise all necessary precautions for the safety of employees appropriate to the nature of the work and the conditions under which the work is to be performed.
3.3.11 Insurance.
3.3.11.1 Time for Compliance. Consultant shall not commence work under this Agreement until it has provided evidence satisfactory to the City that it has secured all insurance required under this section. In addition, Consultant shall not allow any subconsultant to commence work on any subcontract until it has provided evidence satisfactory to the City that the subconsultant has secured all insurance required under this section. Failure to provide and maintain all required insurance shall be grounds for the City to terminate this Agreement for cause.
3.3.11.2 Types of Insurance Required. As a condition precedent to the effectiveness of this Agreement for work to be performed hereunder, and without limiting the indemnity provisions of the Agreement, the Consultant, in partial performance of its obligations under such Agreement, shall procure and maintain in full force and effect during the term of the Agreement the following policies of insurance. If the existing policies do not meet the insurance requirements set forth herein, Consultant agrees to amend, supplement or endorse the policies to do so.
(A) Commercial General Liability: Commercial General Liability Insurance which affords coverage at least as broad as Insurance Services Office "occurrence" form CG 00 01, or the exact equivalent, with limits of not less than $2,000,000 per occurrence and no less than $4,000,000 in the general aggregate. Defense costs shall be paid in addition to the limits. The policy shall contain no endorsements or provisions (1) limiting coverage for contractual liability; (2) excluding coverage for claims or suits by one insured against another (cross-liability); (3) products/completed operations liability; or (4) containing any other exclusion(s) contrary to the terms or purposes of this Agreement. (B) Automobile Liability Insurance: Automobile Liability Insurance with coverage at least as broad as Insurance Services Office Form CA 00 01 covering "Any Auto" (Symbol 1), or the exact equivalent, covering bodily injury and property damage for all activities with limits of not less than $2,000,000 combined limit for each occurrence. 27 28 of 672
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(C) Workers' Compensation: Workers' Compensation
Insurance, as required by the State of California and Employer's Liability Insurance with a limit of not less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury and disease. (D) Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions): Professional Liability insurance or Errors & Omissions insurance appropriate to Consultant’s profession with limits of not less than $2,000,000. Covered professional services shall specifically include all work to be performed under the Agreement and delete any exclusions that may potentially affect the work to be performed (for example, any exclusions relating to lead, asbestos, pollution, testing, underground storage tanks, laboratory analysis, soil work, etc.). If coverage is written on a claims-made basis, the retroactive date shall precede the effective date of the initial Agreement and continuous coverage will be maintained or an extended reporting period will be exercised for a period of at least five (5) years from termination or expiration of this Agreement.
3.3.11.3 Insurance Endorsements. Required insurance policies shall contain the following provisions, or Consultant shall provide endorsements on forms approved by the City to add the following provisions to the insurance policies:
(A) Commercial General Liability: (1) Additional Insured: The City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers shall be additional insureds with regard to liability and defense of suits or claims arising out of the performance of the Agreement.
Additional Insured Endorsements shall not (1) be restricted to "ongoing operations"; (2) exclude "contractual liability"; (3) restrict coverage to "sole" liability of Consultant; or (4) contain any other exclusions contrary to the terms or purposes of this Agreement. For all policies of Commercial General Liability insurance, Consultant shall provide endorsements in the form of ISO CG 20 10 10 01 and 20 37 10 01 (or endorsements providing the exact same coverage) to effectuate this requirement. (2) Cancellation: Required insurance policies shall not be canceled or the coverage reduced until a thirty (30) day written notice of cancellation has been served upon the City except ten (10) days shall be allowed for non-payment of premium. (B) Automobile Liability: (1) Additional Insured: The City, its directors, officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers shall be covered as additional insureds with respect to the ownership, operation, maintenance, use, loading or unloading of any auto owned, leased, hired or borrowed by the Vendor or for which the Vendor is responsible. (2) Cancellation: Required insurance policies shall not be canceled or the coverage reduced until a thirty (30) day written notice of cancellation has been served upon the City except ten (10) days shall be allowed for non-payment of premium.
(C) Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions): (1) Cancellation:
Required insurance policies shall not be canceled or the coverage reduced until a thirty (30) day written notice of cancellation has been served upon the City except ten (10) days shall be allowed for non-payment of premium. (2) This insurance shall be written on a policy form coverage specifically designed to protect against acts, errors or omissions of the Consultant. “Covered Professional Services” as designated in the policy must specifically include work performed under this Agreement. The policy must “pay on behalf of” the insured and include a provision establishing the insurer’s duty to defend.
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(D) Workers' Compensation: (1) Cancellation: Required
insurance policies shall not be canceled or the coverage reduced until a thirty (30) day written notice of cancellation has been served upon the City except ten (10) days shall be allowed for non-payment of premium. (2) Waiver of Subrogation: A waiver of subrogation stating that the insurer waives all rights of subrogation against the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers.
3.3.11.4 Primary and Non-Contributing Insurance. All policies of Commercial General Liability and Automobile Liability insurance shall be primary and any other insurance, deductible, or self-insurance maintained by the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, or volunteers shall not contribute with this primary insurance. Policies shall contain or be endorsed to contain such provisions.
3.3.11.5 Waiver of Subrogation. All required insurance coverages, except for the professional liability coverage, shall contain or be endorsed to waiver of subrogation in favor of the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers or shall specifically allow Consultant or others providing insurance evidence in compliance with these specifications to waive their right of recovery prior to a loss. Consultant hereby waives its own right of recovery against City, and shall require similar written express waivers and insurance clauses from each of its subconsultants.
3.3.11.6 Deductibles and Self-Insured Retentions. Any deductible or selfinsured retention must be approved in writing by the City and shall protect the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers in the same manner and to the same extent as they would have been protected had the policy or policies not contained a deductible or self-insured retention.
3.3.11.7 Evidence of Insurance. The Consultant, concurrently with the execution of the Agreement, and as a condition precedent to the effectiveness thereof, shall deliver either certified copies of the required policies, or original certificates on forms approved by the City, together with all endorsements affecting each policy. Required insurance policies shall not be in compliance if they include any limiting provision or endorsement that has not been submitted to the City for approval. The certificates and endorsements for each insurance policy shall be signed by a person authorized by that insurer to bind coverage on its behalf. At least fifteen (15 days) prior to the expiration of any such policy, evidence of insurance showing that such insurance coverage has been renewed or extended shall be filed with the City. If such coverage is cancelled or reduced and not replaced immediately so as to avoid a lapse in the required coverage, Consultant shall, within ten (10) days after receipt of written notice of such cancellation or reduction of coverage, file with the City evidence of insurance showing that the required insurance has been reinstated or has been provided through another insurance company or companies.
3.3.11.8 Acceptability of Insurers. Each such policy shall be from a company or companies with a current A.M. Best's rating of no less than A:VII and authorized to transact business of insurance in the State of California, or otherwise allowed to place insurance through surplus line brokers under applicable provisions of the California Insurance Code or any federal law.
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3.3.11.9 Enforcement of Agreement Provisions (non estoppel).
Consultant acknowledges and agrees that actual or alleged failure on the part of the City to inform Consultant of non-compliance with any requirement imposes no additional obligation on the City nor does it waive any rights hereunder.
3.3.11.10 Requirements Not Limiting. Requirement of specific coverage or minimum limits contained in this Section are not intended as a limitation on coverage, limits, or other requirement, or a waiver of any coverage normally provided by any insurance. The insurance obligations under this Agreement shall be: (1) all the insurance coverage and/or limits carried by or available to the Consultant; or (2) the minimum insurance coverage requirements and/or limits shown in this Agreement; whichever is greater. Any insurance proceeds in excess of or broader than the minimum required coverage and/or minimum required limits, which are applicable to a given loss, shall be available to the City. No representation is made that the minimum insurance requirements of this Agreement are sufficient to cover the obligations of the Consultant under this Agreement.
3.3.11.11 Additional Insurance Provisions
(A) If any Excess or Umbrella Liability policies are used to meet the limits of liability required by this Agreement, then said policies shall be “following form” of the underlying policy coverage, terms, conditions, and provisions and shall meet all of the insurance requirements stated in this Agreement, including, but not limited to, the additional insured and primary & non-contributory insurance requirements stated herein. No insurance policies maintained by the City, whether primary or excess, and which also apply to a loss covered hereunder, shall be called upon to contribute to a loss until the Consultant’s primary and excess liability policies are exhausted.
(B) The foregoing requirements as to the types and limits of insurance coverage to be maintained by Consultant, and any approval of said insurance by the City, is not intended to and shall not in any manner limit or qualify the liabilities and obligations otherwise assumed by the Consultant pursuant to this Agreement, including but not limited to, the provisions concerning indemnification.
(C) If at any time during the life of the Agreement, any policy of insurance required under this Agreement does not comply with these specifications or is canceled and not replaced, City has the right but not the duty to obtain the insurance it deems necessary and any premium paid by City will be promptly reimbursed by Consultant or City will withhold amounts sufficient to pay premium from Consultant payments. In the alternative, City may cancel this Agreement.
(D) The City may require the Consultant to provide complete copies of all insurance policies in effect for the duration of the Project. (E) Neither the City nor any of its officials, officers, employees, agents or volunteers shall be personally responsible for any liability arising under or by virtue of this Agreement.
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(F) The limits set forth herein shall apply separately to each insured against whom claims are made or suits are brought, except with respect to the limits of liability. Further the limits set forth herein shall not be construed to relieve the Consultant from liability in excess of such coverage, nor shall it limit the Consultant’s indemnification obligations to the City and shall not preclude the City from taking such other actions available to the City under other provisions of the Agreement or law.
(G) Consultant shall report to the City, in addition to Consultant’s insurer, any and all insurance claims submitted by Consultant in connection with the Services under this Agreement.
3.3.11.12 Insurance for Subconsultants. Consultant shall include all subconsultants engaged in any work for Consultant relating to this Agreement as additional insureds under the Consultant's policies, or the Consultant shall be responsible for causing subconsultants to purchase the appropriate insurance in compliance with the terms of these Insurance Requirements, including adding the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers as additional insureds to the subconsultant's policies. All policies of Commercial General Liability insurance provided by Consultant’s subconsultants performing work relating to this Agreement shall be endorsed to name the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents and volunteers as additional insureds using endorsement form ISO CG 20 38 04 13 or an endorsement providing equivalent coverage. Consultant shall not allow any subconsultant to commence work on any subcontract relating to this Agreement until it has received satisfactory evidence of subconsultant’s compliance with all insurance requirements under this Agreement, to the extent applicable. The Consultant shall provide satisfactory evidence of compliance with this section upon request of the City.
3.4 Labor Code Requirements.
3.4.1 Prevailing Wages. Consultant is aware of the requirements of California Labor Code Section 1720, et seq., and 1770, et seq., as well as California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 16000, et seq., ("Prevailing Wage Laws"), which require the payment of prevailing wage rates and the performance of other requirements on "public works" and "maintenance" projects. If the Services are being performed as part of an applicable "public works" or "maintenance" project, as defined by the Prevailing Wage Laws, and if the total compensation is $1,000 or more, Consultant agrees to fully comply with such Prevailing Wage Laws. City shall provide Consultant with a copy of the prevailing rates of per diem wages in effect at the commencement of this Agreement. Consultant shall make copies of the prevailing rates of per diem wages for each craft, classification or type of worker needed to execute the Services available to interested parties upon request, and shall post copies at the Consultant's principal place of business and at the project site. It is the intent of the parties to effectuate the requirements of sections 1771, 1774, 1775, 1776, 1777.5, 1813, and 1815 of the Labor Code within this Agreement, and Consultant shall therefore comply with such Labor Code sections to the fullest extent required by law. Consultant shall defend, indemnify and hold the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers free and harmless from any claim or liability arising out of any failure or alleged failure to comply with the Prevailing Wage Laws.
3.4.2 Registration/DIR Compliance. If the Services are being performed on a public works project of over $25,000 when the project is for construction, alteration, demolition, 31 32 of 672
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installation, or repair work, or a public works project of over $15,000 when the project is for maintenance work, in addition to the foregoing, then pursuant to Labor Code sections 1725.5 and 1771.1, the Consultant and all subconsultants must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations (“DIR”). Consultant shall maintain registration for the duration of the Project and require the same of any subconsultants.
3.4.3 Compliance Monitoring. This Project may also be subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the DIR. It shall be Consultant’s sole responsibility to comply with all applicable registration and labor compliance requirements, including the submission of payroll records directly to the DIR. Any stop orders issued by the DIR against Consultant or any subconsultant that affect Consultant’s performance of services, including any delay, shall be Consultant’s sole responsibility. Any delay arising out of or resulting from such stop orders shall be considered Consultant caused delay and shall not be compensable by the City. Consultant shall defend, indemnify and hold the City, its officials, officers, employees and agents free and harmless from any claim or liability arising out of stop orders issued by the DIR against Consultant or any subconsultant.
3.4.4 Labor Certification. By its signature hereunder, Consultant certifies that it is aware of the provisions of Section 3700 of the California Labor Code which require every employer to be insured against liability for Worker's Compensation or to undertake self-insurance in accordance with the provisions of that Code, and agrees to comply with such provisions before commencing the performance of the Services.
3.5 Termination of Agreement.
3.5.1 Grounds for Termination. City may, by written notice to Consultant, terminate the whole or any part of this Agreement at any time and without cause by giving written notice to Consultant of such termination, and specifying the effective date thereof, at least seven (7) days before the effective date of such termination. Upon termination, Consultant shall be compensated only for those Services which have been adequately rendered to City, and Consultant shall be entitled to no further compensation. Consultant may not terminate this Agreement except for cause. The rights and remedies of the City provided in this section shall not be exclusive and are in addition to any other rights and remedies provided by law, equity or under this Agreement.
3.5.2 Effect of Termination. If this Agreement is terminated as provided herein, City may require Consultant to provide all finished or unfinished Documents and Data and other information of any kind prepared by Consultant in connection with the performance of Services under this Agreement. Consultant shall be required to provide such document and other information within fifteen (15) days of the request.
3.5.3 Additional Services. In the event this Agreement is terminated in whole or in part as provided herein, City may procure, upon such terms and in such manner as it may determine appropriate, services similar to those terminated.
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3.6 Indemnification.
3.6.1 To the fullest extent permitted by law, Consultant shall defend (with counsel of City’s choosing), indemnify and hold the City, its officials, officers, employees, volunteers, and agents free and harmless from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, costs, expenses, liability, loss, damage or injury of any kind, in law or equity, to property or persons, including wrongful death, in any manner arising out of, pertaining to, or incident to any acts, errors or omissions, or willful misconduct of Consultant, its officials, officers, employees, subcontractors, consultants or agents in connection with the performance of the Consultant’s Services, the Project or this Agreement, including without limitation the payment of all damages, expert witness fees and attorney’s fees and other related costs and expenses except such loss or damage caused by the sole negligence or willful misconduct of the City. Consultant's obligation to indemnify shall survive expiration or termination of this Agreement and shall not be restricted to insurance proceeds, if any, received by Consultant, the City, its officials, officers, employees, agents, or volunteers.
3.6.2 If Consultant’s obligation to defend, indemnify, and/or hold harmless arises out of Consultant’s performance as a “design professional” (as that term is defined under Civil Code section 2782.8), then, and only to the extent required by Civil Code section 2782.8, which is fully incorporated herein, Consultant’s indemnification obligation shall be limited to claims that arise out of, pertain to, or relate to the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of the Consultant, and, upon Consultant obtaining a final adjudication by a court of competent jurisdiction, Consultant’s liability for such claim, including the cost to defend, shall not exceed the Consultant’s proportionate percentage of fault.
3.7 General Provisions.
3.7.1 Accounting Records. Consultant shall maintain complete and accurate records with respect to all costs and expenses incurred under this Agreement. All such records shall be clearly identifiable. Consultant shall allow a representative of City during normal business hours to examine, audit, and make transcripts or copies of such records and any other documents created pursuant to this Agreement. Consultant shall allow inspection of all work, data, documents, proceedings, and activities related to the Agreement for a period of three (3) years from the date of final payment under this Agreement.
3.7.2 Independent Contractors and Subcontracting.
3.7.2.1 Use of Consultants. Consultant is aware of statutory and case law regarding classification of workers as independent contractors, including California Labor Code Section 2750.3 and Dynamex Operations West, Inc. v. Superior Court, 4 Cal. 5th 903 (2018). To ensure that Consultant is in compliance with the California Labor Code, Consultant shall only utilize its employees to provide the Services. Consultant may not provide the services through any independent contractor, subcontractor or subconsultant (“Subcontractor(s)”) unless approved by the City as set forth in Section 3.7.2.2 below. Consultant represents and warrants that all personnel who perform the Services on Consultant’s behalf are Consultant’s employees, and that Consultant complies with all applicable laws, rules and regulations governing its employees, including, but not limited to, the California Labor Code, Unemployment Insurance Code and all applicable Industrial Welfare Commission Wage Orders. 33 34 of 672
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3.7.2.2 Prior Approval Required. Consultant shall not use any Subcontractor to provide the Services, or any portion of the work required by this Agreement, without prior written approval of City. In the event that City authorizes Consultant to use a Subcontractor, Consultant shall enter into a written agreement with the Subcontractor, which must include all provisions of the Agreement, including a restriction on the Subcontractor’s use of further independent contractors, subcontractors or subconsultants without the City’s prior written consent.
3.7.3 Delivery of Notices. All notices permitted or required under this Agreement shall be given to the respective parties at the following address, or at such other address as the respective parties may provide in writing for this purpose:
Consultant: [***INSERT BUSINESS NAME***]
[***INSERT STREET ADDRESS***]
[***INSERT CITY STATE ZIP***]
ATTN: [***INSERT NAME AND TITLE***]
City: City of Laguna Beach
505 Forest Avenue
Laguna Beach CA 92651
ATTN: Robert Montaghami, Fire Marshal
Such notice shall be deemed made when personally delivered or when mailed, forty-eight (48) hours after deposit in the U.S. Mail, first class postage prepaid and addressed to the party at its applicable address. Actual notice shall be deemed adequate notice on the date actual notice occurred, regardless of the method of service.
3.7.4 Ownership of Materials and Confidentiality.
3.7.4.1 Documents & Data; Licensing of Intellectual Property. This Agreement creates a non-exclusive and perpetual license for City to copy, use, modify, reuse, or sublicense any and all copyrights, designs, and other intellectual property embodied in plans, specifications, studies, drawings, estimates, and other documents or works of authorship fixed in any tangible medium of expression, including but not limited to, physical drawings or data magnetically or otherwise recorded on computer diskettes, which are prepared or caused to be prepared by Consultant under this Agreement ("Documents & Data"). All Documents & Data shall be and remain the property of City, and shall not be used in whole or in substantial part by Consultant on other projects without the City’s express written permission. Within thirty (30) days following the completion, suspension, abandonment or termination of this Agreement, Consultant shall provide to City reproducible copies of all Documents & Data, in a form and amount required by City. City reserves the right to select the method of document reproduction and to establish where the reproduction will be accomplished. The reproduction expense shall be borne by City at the actual cost of duplication. In the event of a dispute regarding the amount of compensation to which the Consultant is entitled under the termination provisions of this Agreement, Consultant shall provide all Documents & Data to City upon payment of the undisputed amount. Consultant shall have no right to retain or fail to provide to City any such documents pending resolution of the dispute. In addition, Consultant shall retain copies of all Documents & Data on file for a minimum of fifteen (15) years following completion of the Project, and shall make copies available 34 35 of 672
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to City upon the payment of actual reasonable duplication costs. Before destroying the Documents & Data following this retention period, Consultant shall make a reasonable effort to notify City and provide City with the opportunity to obtain the documents.
3.7.4.2 Subconsultants. Consultant shall require all subconsultants to agree in writing that City is granted a non-exclusive and perpetual license for any Documents & Data the subconsultant prepares under this Agreement. Consultant represents and warrants that Consultant has the legal right to license any and all Documents & Data. Consultant makes no such representation and warranty in regard to Documents & Data which were prepared by design professionals other than Consultant or its subconsultants, or those provided to Consultant by the City.
3.7.4.3 Right to Use. City shall not be limited in any way in its use or reuse of the Documents and Data or any part of them at any time for purposes of this Project or another project, provided that any such use not within the purposes intended by this Agreement or on a project other than this Project without employing the services of Consultant shall be at City’s sole risk. If City uses or reuses the Documents & Data on any project other than this Project, it shall remove the Consultant’s seal from the Documents & Data and indemnify and hold harmless Consultant and its officers, directors, agents and employees from claims arising out of the negligent use or re-use of the Documents & Data on such other project. Consultant shall be responsible and liable for its Documents & Data, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, only with respect to the condition of the Documents & Data at the time they are provided to the City upon completion, suspension, abandonment or termination. Consultant shall not be responsible or liable for any revisions to the Documents & Data made by any party other than Consultant, a party for whom the Consultant is legally responsible or liable, or anyone approved by the Consultant.
3.7.4.4 Indemnification. Consultant shall defend, indemnify and hold the City, its directors, officials, officers, employees, volunteers and agents free and harmless, pursuant to the indemnification provisions of this Agreement, for any alleged infringement of any patent, copyright, trade secret, trade name, trademark, or any other proprietary right of any person or entity in consequence of the use on the Project by City of the Documents & Data, including any method, process, product, or concept specified or depicted.
3.7.4.5 Confidentiality. All ideas, memoranda, specifications, plans, procedures, drawings, descriptions, computer program data, input record data, written information, and other Documents & Data either created by or provided to Consultant in connection with the performance of this Agreement shall be held confidential by Consultant. Such materials shall not, without the prior written consent of City, be used by Consultant for any purposes other than the performance of the Services. Nor shall such materials be disclosed to any person or entity not connected with the performance of the Services or the Project. Nothing furnished to Consultant which is otherwise known to Consultant or is generally known, or has become known, to the related industry shall be deemed confidential. Consultant shall not use City's name or insignia, photographs of the Project, or any publicity pertaining to the Services or the Project in any magazine, trade paper, newspaper, television or radio production or other similar medium without the prior written consent of City. 35 36 of 672
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3.7.4.6 Confidential Information. The City shall refrain from releasing Consultant’s proprietary information ("Proprietary Information") unless the City's legal counsel determines that the release of the Proprietary Information is required by the California Public Records Act or other applicable state or federal law, or order of a court of competent jurisdiction, in which case the City shall notify Consultant of its intention to release Proprietary Information.
Consultant shall have five (5) working days after receipt of the release notice to give City written notice of Consultant's objection to the City's release of Proprietary Information. Consultant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, and its officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against all liability, loss, cost or expense (including attorney’s fees) arising out of a legal action brought to compel the release of Proprietary Information. City shall not release the Proprietary Information after receipt of an objection notice unless either: (1) Consultant fails to fully indemnify, defend (with City's choice of legal counsel), and hold City harmless from any legal action brought to compel such release; and/or (2) a final and non-appealable order by a court of competent jurisdiction requires that City release such information.
3.7.5 Cooperation; Further Acts. The Parties shall fully cooperate with one another, and shall take any additional acts or sign any additional documents as may be necessary, appropriate or convenient to attain the purposes of this Agreement.
3.7.6 Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersedes all prior negotiations, understandings or agreements.
3.7.7 Attorneys’ Fees. If either party commences an action against the other party, either legal, administrative or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this Agreement, the prevailing party in such litigation shall be entitled to have and recover from the losing party reasonable attorneys’ fees and all costs of such action.
3.7.8 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of California. Venue shall be in Orange County. In addition to any and all contract requirements pertaining to notices of and requests for compensation or payment for extra work, disputed work, claims and/or changed conditions, Consultant must comply with the claim procedures set forth in Government Code sections 900 et seq. prior to filing any lawsuit against the City. Such Government Code claims and any subsequent lawsuit based upon the Government Code claims shall be limited to those matters that remain unresolved after all procedures pertaining to extra work, disputed work, claims, and/or changed conditions have been followed by Consultant. If no such Government Code claim is submitted, or if any prerequisite contractual requirements are not otherwise satisfied as specified herein, Consultant shall be barred from bringing and maintaining a valid lawsuit against the City.
3.7.9 Time of Essence. Time is of the essence for each and every provision of this Agreement.
3.7.10 City's Right to Employ Other Consultants. City reserves right to employ other consultants in connection with this Project.
3.7.11 Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding on the successors and assigns of the parties.
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3.7.12 Assignment or Transfer. Consultant shall not assign, sublet, or transfer this Agreement or any rights under or interest in this Agreement without the written consent of the City, which may be withheld for any reason. Any attempt to so assign or so transfer without such consent shall be void and without legal effect and shall constitute grounds for termination.
Consultant shall not subcontract any portion of the Services required by this Agreement, except as expressly stated herein, without prior written approval of City. Subcontracts, if any, shall contain a provision making them subject to all provisions stipulated in this Agreement.
3.7.13 Construction; References; Captions. Since the Parties or their agents have participated fully in the preparation of this Agreement, the language of this Agreement shall be construed simply, according to its fair meaning, and not strictly for or against any Party. Any term referencing time, days or period for performance shall be deemed calendar days and not work days. All references to Consultant include all personnel, employees, agents, and subconsultants of Consultant, except as otherwise specified in this Agreement. All references to City include its elected officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers except as otherwise specified in this Agreement. The captions of the various articles and paragraphs are for convenience and ease of reference only, and do not define, limit, augment, or describe the scope, content, or intent of this Agreement.
3.7.14 Amendment; Modification. No supplement, modification, or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing and signed by both Parties.
3.7.15 Waiver. No waiver of any default shall constitute a waiver of any other default or breach, whether of the same or other covenant or condition. No waiver, benefit, privilege, or service voluntarily given or performed by a Party shall give the other Party any contractual rights by custom, estoppel, or otherwise.
3.7.16 No Third-Party Beneficiaries. There are no intended third party beneficiaries of any right or obligation assumed by the Parties.
3.7.17 Invalidity; Severability. If any portion of this Agreement is declared invalid, illegal, or otherwise unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
3.7.18 Prohibited Interests. Consultant maintains and warrants that it has not employed nor retained any company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for Consultant, to solicit or secure this Agreement. Consultant warrants that it has not paid nor has it agreed to pay any company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for Consultant, any fee, commission, percentage, brokerage fee, gift or other consideration contingent upon or resulting from the award or making of this Agreement. Consultant further agrees to file, or shall cause its employees or subconsultants to file, a Statement of Economic Interest with the City’s Filing Officer as required under state law in the performance of the Services. For breach or violation of this warranty, City shall have the right to rescind this Agreement without liability. For the term of this Agreement, no member, officer or employee of City, during the term of his or her service with City, shall have any direct interest in this Agreement, or obtain any present or anticipated material benefit arising therefrom. 37 38 of 672
-17- PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
UPDATED 2-2026
3.7.19 Authority to Enter Agreement. Consultant has all requisite power and authority to conduct its business and to execute, deliver, and perform the Agreement. Each Party warrants that the individuals who have signed this Agreement have the legal power, right, and authority to make this Agreement and bind each respective Party.
3.7.20 Counterparts. This Agreement may be signed in counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original.
3.7.21 Survival. All rights and obligations hereunder that by their nature are to continue after any expiration or termination of this Agreement, including, but not limited to, the indemnification obligations, shall survive any such expiration or termination.
SIGNATURES ON NEXT PAGE
38 39 of 672
-18- PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
UPDATED 2-2026
SIGNATURE PAGE TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH AND
[***INSERT NAME***]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the Parties has caused this Agreement to be executed on the day and year first above written.
CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH [INSERT NAME OF CONSULTANT]
[If Corporation, TWO SIGNATURES,
President OR Vice President AND Secretary
OR Treasurer REQUIRED]
By:
Its:
Printed Name:
By:
Its:
Printed Name:
Approved By:
[INSERT NAME]
[INSERT TITLE]
Approved as to Form:
_____________________________________
City Attorney
Attested By:
City Clerk
39 40 of 672
55852.00003\42823523.1
Exhibit “A”-1 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
EXHIBIT "A"
SCOPE OF SERVICES
[***INSERT SCOPE***]
40 41 of 672
Exhibit “B”-1 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
EXHIBIT "B"
SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
[***INSERT SCHEDULE***]
41 42 of 672
Exhibit “C”-1 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
EXHIBIT "C"
COMPENSATION
[***INSERT RATES & AUTHORIZED REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES***] 42 43 of 672
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 1 of 9
The intent of this protocol is to define City procedures for achieving compliance with the California Coastal Act, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), regulation of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other agencies regarding fuel modification in zones requiring a Coastal Development Permit.
Fuel Modification Zones (FMZ’s) are managed by the City of Laguna Beach under two different approaches;
A. Public Nuisance Abatement sites – Those legacy sites which have a history of long-term grazing disturbance. These sites and their associated management by goat grazing predate the adoption of the Coastal Act and has been judged by the State Attorney General as exempt from the act as a pre-existing condition. This generally refers to sites grazed by goats in FMZs 1-9 and a portion of FMZ 10.
B. Coastal Development Permit sites- Those sites subject to the Coastal Act for which a Coastal Development Permit must be obtained for fuel modification. This treatment protocol guides fuel modification for these sites, which includes all zones currently maintained under Coastal Development Permits and all program expansion sites planned for future development (A portion of FMZ 10, FMZs 11-24, and 27).
Reduction of Fire Behavior Potential
The objective of any fuel modification treatment shall be to achieve at least an average 75% reduction in potential wildfire fire line intensity (energy release), as measured by flame length and rate of spread. In general, a 50% reduction of fuel loading and continuity, accomplished by the parameters of this protocol will achieve such a reduction. (Fuel Modification Impacts to Potential Fire Behavior- A Case Study for the City of Laguna Beach, Rohde, 2017, and Catastrophic Wildfire Assessment- City of Laguna Beach, Franklin, 2013). Fuels reduction shall be managed to accomplish reduction in fuels continuity and disrupt potential wildfire trajectory and intensity.
Treatment Area Determination
Fuel Modification treatments will generally be limited to those areas that are within 100 feet of developed properties or structures. Treatments outside of these areas will be limited to removal of targeted invasives, general non-native weed control, or tree thinning and dead branch removal. Fuel modification outside of the 100-foot zone shall be conducted with intent to minimize impacts to adjacent intact habitats.
Exceptions to the 100-foot clearance may include when topographic conditions may accentuate wildfire behavior such as in steep gullies which may “chimney” or accentuate fire effects towards development.
Other cases may include where islands of native vegetation are retained as buffers for sensitive species within the fuel modification zone and allow fuel continuity to exist that would allow wildfire to transition readily through the zone. In these or similar conditions, the fuel modification width may be extended to 150-feet when required to mitigate expected fire behavior on structures above the site. Disruption of fuel Attachment C
43 44 of 672
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 2 of 9
continuity will be accomplished to limit fire movement within or through the Fuel Modification Zone and reduce crown fire spread.
The primary methods for vegetation management shall consist of grazing or hand crew modification.
Other methods including mechanical mastication, prescribed burning, mass herbicide use, crushing, chaining, or other means of mechanical conversion have been eliminated from consideration for environmental or geological risk, topographic limitations for heavy equipment use, concern for contamination of water courses, lack of ability to manage fire or smoke impacts from prescribed fire, or social/political concerns.
Geotechnical Findings
Proposed FMZs shall be evaluated by a qualified geologist for geologic stability and flood/debris movement potential. Treatment within areas determined to be geologically unstable in the geotechnical report may be modified to reduce impacts, or these areas may be excluded from treatment. Unstable sites may include historic landslide or debris flow areas, unstable soil or rock structure, or similar sites.
Archeological/Paleontological Findings
Proposed FMZs shall be evaluated for archeological and paleontological resources in accordance with CEQA requirements. Such evaluation requires solicitation of tribal interests, survey of data sources for known resources, and site survey. Areas determined to have archaeological and/or paleontological resources present may require treatment to be modified to reduce impacts, or these areas may be excluded from treatment. Treatment determinations shall be made in consultation with a certified archeologist/paleontologist.
Sensitive Species Protection
For all FMZs requiring Coastal Development Permitting, a Qualified Biologist shall inspect proposed fuel modification sites for the presence of sensitive species prior to the initiation of work. If the presence of sensitive species is identified, a biologically trained environmental monitor shall be present at all times while work is conducted in the immediate vicinity of identified habitat to ensure no accidental takings occur, and sensitive species are protected. During all other activities, the Qualified Biologist shall be available as needed to ensure environmental compliance. Crews conducting fuel modification work shall receive instruction and training in sensitive species management and avoidance prior to initiation of work.
Sensitive species include those identified in the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), the Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA), the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Natural Community Conservation Planning Act (NCCPA), California Penal Code Section 384a, or by Federal designation in the Endangered Species Act (F-ESA). Sensitive species shall not be disturbed by fuel modification activities.
Sensitive plant species of principal concern in Laguna Beach include:
1. Big-leaved Crownbeard (Verbesina dissita)
2. Intermediate Mariposa Lilly (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius) 44 45 of 672
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 3 of 9
3. Many-Stemmed Dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis)
4. Fish’s Milkwort (Rhinotropis cornuta var. fishae)
5. Cliff Spurge (Euphorbia misera)
6. Catalina Mariposa Lily (Calochortus catalinae)
7. Coulter’s Matillija Poppy (Romneya coulteri)
8. Western Dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis)
9. Laguna Beach Life-forever (Dudleya stolonifera)
Whenever listed sensitive plant species are identified, they will be protected by establishing a flagged, 15- foot buffer around all specimens of the sensitive species, inside of which no material shall be initially removed. Such presence and limits shall be effectively communicated to project contractors. Based upon the species identified, its ecology and phenology, hand removal of non-native vegetation within the 15- foot buffer may be initiated at the direction of the Qualified Biologist, if it is determined to be ecologically beneficial for the identified species. For Big-Leaved Crownbeard (Verbesina dissita), the potential shading/nurse plant benefit of non-native shrubs would be considered before removing non-native shrubs with such a determination to be made by the Qualified Biologist.
Nesting Birds
To avoid impacts to nesting and migratory birds, including the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica), removal of vegetation should occur outside of nesting season (January 1 to August 31 in upland habitats) as much as is practicable. If work is conducted during nesting season, a qualified biologist will conduct a Nesting Bird Survey in the work area within 48 hours of the commencement of work. If any active nests are found, a buffer zone will be flagged around the nesting site(s) in compliance with the Qualified Biologist’s recommendations before work commences. Contractor personnel will be directed to check all vegetation for nests before cutting and to cease work in the area immediately if one is found, until a Qualified Biologist can assess it. If work ceases for more than two days, another nesting bird survey will be required before work can re-commence.
Grazing Treatment Protocols
Goats may be used to implement grazed fuel modification treatment in areas of Low to Moderate Habitat Value as defined in the Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, (Marsh et. al 1983, `see Appendix).
To determine habitat value for this purpose, Laguna Beach City GIS maps based on the above-referenced document will be initially referenced and determined habitat values will only be modified when biological evaluations of current site conditions, conducted by a Qualified Biologist, support a low value habitat determination. Grazing sites will generally be dominated by non-native, herbaceous plant species.
The following mitigation measures will be followed:
a. No more than 75 goats will be permitted per acre.
b. Goats shall remain in secure enclosures at all times. 45 46 of 672
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 4 of 9
c. Sensitive plant species shall be protected from trampling or consumption by establishing the secure enclosures a minimum distance of at least 15 feet between sensitive plants and the limits of grazing.
d. Grazing animals shall be moved periodically to ensure enough vegetative cover remains to promote erosion control, inhibit dust, and preserve view aesthetics. e. Up to 80% of the native and 100% of the non-native species in this cover type may be removed in such areas. An average minimum of 4 inches height of intact grass shall be retained onsite as an erosion control measure.
f. Goats shall be used for fuel reduction only and shall be immediately removed when the clearance has been accomplished.
g. A targeted invasive control plan will be implemented in all future goat-grazed areas to prevent invasive species from propagating and impacting adjacent intact habitat. h. Where practicable and environmentally appropriate, goat grazing may be used as the maintenance method for areas which required initial clearance by hand crews.
Hand Crew Treatment Protocols
Hand crews will be used to implement fuel modification in areas of High or Very High Habitat Value as defined in the Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, (Marsh et. al 1983, see Appendix). To determine habitat value for this purpose, Laguna Beach City GIS maps based on the above-referenced document will be initially referenced and modified as necessary based on site visits by a Qualified Biologist to reflect current conditions. In general, hand treated sites may contain herbaceous or woody species.
The initial phase of vegetation removal shall include the following steps:
a. Fuel Modification will be conducted by hand crews with chainsaws, brush-cutters, machetes, loppers and other hand tools.
b. Crews will cut down all non-native vegetation (including unmaintained ornamental vegetation) and dead/dying native vegetation and carefully remove dead branches from trees and large shrubs. As noted above, an exception may be made where non-native shrubs are providing shading/nurse plant benefits for Big-Leaved Crownbeard, as determined by the Qualified Biologist. c. Special care will be exercised to distinguish dormant native vegetation from dead/dying native vegetation.
d. Tree-form shrubs (e.g. Laurel Sumac (Malosma laurina), Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia)) that are over 6 feet tall will be carefully pruned of their lower branches to increase the crown base height to 50% of the plant height. For example, a 10-foottall plant would have its lower branches removed to a height of 5 feet. Branches will be pruned to within 1 inch or less of the branch crown. Southern Maritime Chaparral shrub species shall be left fully intact except as noted below and not pruned unless all other hierarchy opportunities have been exhausted. Pruning methods shall be determined by environmental monitors based upon needs of specific species to maximize probability of survival. 46 47 of 672
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 5 of 9
e. Non-native trees (Pinus, Eucalyptus, Washingtonia, etc.) shall be considered for removal on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration their potential ignitability, potential to spread fire from or across the FMZ, and property/tree ownership.
f. Native large trees (Quercus, Platanus, etc.) shall be pruned of dead components, and lower small branches removed to a height of 8 feet or one half their height, whichever is less, so as to disrupt “fuel ladder” potential. Dead and down tree components on the ground below large trees shall be removed. No more than three trees may be retained in a single grouping or cluster of trees. A minimum distance of 20 feet shall be maintained between mature tree canopies. g. Remaining shrub clusters shall not exceed 400 square feet, except in the presence of sensitive species. Spacing between shrub clusters shall generally be at least 6 feet width.
Other Treatment Methods
Prescribed fire use shall be limited to pile burning only when air quality and fire behavior limitations may be met. Broadcast use of fire will not be utilized due to the presence of heavy, old age class fuels with a high dead-to-live ratio, leading to difficulty of control, air quality concerns, and risks to developed properties of escape.
Fuels clearance by mechanical heavy equipment and related methods such as chaining will generally not be used for landscape-scale treatments within the City due to terrain and slope restrictions on heavy equipment, concerns for geologic slope stability, and the broad presence of high value habitat and sensitive species. Where these concerns may be eliminated, heavy equipment use may be considered.
Mowing is currently authorized for FMZ’s 25 and 26 (Irvine Cove and Emerald Bay) and is performed by the Homeowners Association on those sites
Fuels Removal
Where there is still over 50% vegetative cover after removal of non-native plants and dead or dying material, removal of healthy live perennial vegetation in accordance with the hierarchical list below may occur, beginning with the first species listed, then in descending order through the list until 50% vegetative cover has been attained. The environmental monitor shall provide guidance as necessary in addition to this hierarchy to ensure plant diversity is maintained onsite.
Plant Hierarchy
1. Coastal Goldenbush (Isocoma Menziesii)
2. Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis)
3. California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum)
4. Black Sage (Salvia mellifera)
5. California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica)
6. Monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus)
7. Giant Wildrye (Leymus condensatus)
47 48 of 672
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 6 of 9
8. Laurel Sumac (Malosma laurina),
9. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia),
10. Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia)
Stumps will be cut to within 4” or less of the ground. Thinning of healthy, live vegetation will be done in a dispersed manner to avoid creating large new openings. All healthy specimens of Southern Maritime Chaparral species including Bush Rue (Cneoridium dumosum), Spiny Redberry (Rhamnus crocea) and Bigpod Lilac (Ceanothus megacarpus) will be retained.
Treatment of Water Courses
Pampas Grass (Cortaderia spp.) and other invasive plant removal and herbicide treatment will be the primary vegetation management within a 25-foot buffer on either side of any “blue-line” ephemeral drainages or stream courses (as listed by USGCS map or City Website) that cross the treatment areas. For long drainages which may form a corridor through which fire may be ushered into residences at the head of drainages, additional site-specific steps may be implemented to establish breaks in fuel continuity within these corridors on a site-specific basis consistent with best environmental practice.
Herbicide Treatment
Herbicides may be used only for targeted treatment of invasive plant species when identified as appropriate by the Qualified Biologist. Herbicides shall be specific to the intended use and be used in such a manner as to not pose excessive risk to nearby sensitive species or water courses. Herbicide shall not be used indiscriminately to defoliate large expanses of fuels. Herbicide will be applied to the identified treatment area by directed application methods only (e.g. stump-cut, backpack sprayer). All laws and regulations, pesticide labels, local decisions, established Integrated Pest Management programs, and best management practices will be strictly adhered to.
Erosion Control
The preponderance of roots of perennial plants will be left in place to minimize erosion. Mulch and other erosion control measures (such as sterile, burlap straw wattles and/or jute netting) will be installed as necessary for additional protection without being obtrusive, as recommended in site geotechnical reports.
Haul paths will be minimized and rehabilitated with mulch or other methods as deemed appropriate by the project biologist. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33% or 1:3 grade) will be mulched to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs.
Disposal of Cut Materials
All dead and cut material will be disposed of properly. All non-native material will be removed from the site, placed in a truck or dumpster, and hauled to a green waste recycler. City contractors will generally be conditioned within their contracts to pay all dump fees related to disposal. Native material will be chipped and used as mulch on-site in areas of moderate slope to reduce erosion and weed propagation. 48 49 of 672
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 7 of 9
Native material unable to be reused on site will be hauled to a green waste recycler, though efforts will be made to reuse as much native material on site as possible.
Native vegetation under 3 inches in diameter, live or dead, may be processed with hand tools on site and spread in place as mulch as an alternative to hauling and chipping, if it is cut into pieces not exceeding 12 inches, lays flat on the ground, does not cover remaining native plant species and total mulch depth does not exceed 12 inches. All coarse non-native material (e.g., woody debris, Pampas Grass leaves, Giant Reed stalks, etc.), live or dead, must be removed from the site, including any material dumped in the Project Area by residents or others. Fine material treated with herbicide (e.g., non-native grasses and annual weeds) may be left on site.
Periodic Maintenance
Fuel modification zones are subject to multiple treatments each year to maintain prescribed conditions.
The number of annual treatments shall be determined by annual growth, seasonal conditions, and related factors and may be conducted as often as necessary to maintain fire prevention benefits.
Compliance with Policy
Fuel Modification Zones as managed by this protocol are compliant with City of Laguna Beach land use policy found within the General Plan Land Use Element and Open Space Conservation Element, Local Coastal Plan, and fire and building code, except where FMZ development is specifically exempted. City Fuel Modification Zones subject to nuisance abatement declaration are exempt from these processes.
FMZ’s managed by either nuisance abatement of Coastal Act permitting are authorized under the authority of the City’s General Plan Safety Element.
Development of all new Fuel Modification Zones shall be submitted for review under the California Environmental Quality Act and California Coastal Act, as required. Specifically, this protocol ensures compliance with the following City General Plan requirements:
a. Local Coastal Plan 25.41.007-008
b. Land Use Element 5.2, 7.3-4, 7.6, 9.8, 10.6
c. Open Space Conservation Element 4I, 7A, 7G, 7K, 8A, 8C 8N, 8G, 8H, 10C, 10E, 8E Additional Mitigations
Additional site mitigations may be applied when recommended or required by environmental permitting agencies for application to a specific FMZ.
Trash and Litter Found On-site
Litter or rubbish found within Project Areas will be removed and hauled to a landfill.
Site Monitoring and Documentation
An annual monitoring report shall be prepared by the City detailing the following:
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Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 8 of 9
1. Dates and locations of vegetation treatment or modification
2. Treatment methods utilized by site
3. Number of acres managed
4. Photos of treatment sites, pre- and post- treatment
5. Description of any violations or failure to meet conditions of the Coastal Development Permit
HABITAT CLASSIFICATION
The following definitions are utilized in the classification of habitat types within the City of Laguna Beach:
(Excerpt from: Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, Marsh et. al 1983 pp. 35-36) Biological Value Mapping is based on the parameters of habitat integrity and extent, faunal use, and presence of endangered, rare, or locally unique biota. From these, a ranking system was developed of low, medium, high, and very high value habitat. These habitats are classified as follows:
LOW VALUE HABITAT:
Disturbed, impacted sites, often dominated by ruderals, annual plants, and escaped horticulturals. Such areas are usually highly fragmented by or are contiguous to urban development. These sites are biologically simplified and have low faunal carrying capacity. Low value habitats do not possess biological constraints to urban development, but may, if developed, be areas where spillover impact adversely affects contiguous higher value settings.
MODERATE VALUE HABITAT:
These sites may contain either native vegetation of a specific community type, or ornamental species in a setting providing horizontal and vertical structural diversity. The sites are usually, however, limited in area extent, being contiguous to urban development. Thus, their faunal carrying capacity, and often, the native floral species diversity, is lower than “high value” habitats described below.
HIGH VALUE HABITAT:
These are extensive areas dominated by indigenous plant communities which possess good species diversity. They are often, but not always, linked to extensive open space areas, within or outside of the city, by wild fauna traversable open space corridors. Their faunal carrying capacity is good to excellent, many areas are utilized as bedding and foraging sites by mule deer or possess large resident populations of avifauna or native small animals.
VERY-HIGH VALUE HABITAT:
These include the habitats of endangered, rare, or locally unique native plant species (including disjunct and outpost populations). Also included are areas of southern oak Woodland and natural (not irrigation augmented) springs and seeps. Among the very-high value habitats inventoried are areas of significant rock outcrop exposures, because of the assemblages of sensitive plant species which often occupy such setting.
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Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 9 of 9
51 52 of 672
Prepared for:
City of Laguna Beach
Fire Department
505 Forest Avenue
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
5020 Chesebro Road,
Suite 200
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Technical Support Provided by:
January 2025
Initial Study and
Mitigated
Negative Declaration
LOWER HOBO AND
DIAMOND CRESTVIEW
FUEL MODIFICATION
PROJECT
Attachment D
52 53 of 672
Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND INITIAL STUDY
January 2025 1
Initial Environmental Study / Checklist
City of Laguna Beach, California
1. Project Title
Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project
2. Lead Agency Name and Address
City of Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach Fire Department
505 Forest Ave.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
3. Contact Person and Phone Number
Robert Montaghami, Fire Marshal
Laguna Beach Fire Department
Office: (949) 497-0352
4. Project Location
The proposed project consists of fuel modification zone (FMZ) 16 (Lower Hobo) and FMZ 19 (Diamond Crestview), as shown in Figure 1. FMZ 16 encompasses the canyons and hillsides abutting open space bounded roughly on the north by Nyes Place; on the west by Ashton Drive, Alexander Road, and Terry Road; on the south by Laguna Terrace North and M Street; and wraps around to the south side of K Street, ending just north of H Street.
FMZ 19 is located on the hillsides generally between single-family neighborhoods northeast of Highway
1. The north end of FMZ 19 begins west of Summit Drive and is bounded roughly by Diamond Street, Crestview Drive, Moss Street, and Glenneyre Street to the west, Catalina Street to the south, and Summit Drive, Baja Street, Hermosa Way, and Lomita Way to the east.
5. Project Sponsor’s Name and Address
Laguna Beach Fire Department
505 Forest Ave.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
6. General Plan Designations
FMZ 16 would traverse the following General Plan Designations: OS/C (Open Space/Conservation and Recreation), RHP (Residential Hillside Protection), VLD (Village Low Density), VMLD (Village Medium Low Density), and PI (Public/Institutional) (City of Laguna Beach, 2023).
FMZ 19 would traverse the following General Plan Designations: POS (Permanent Open Space) and VLD (Village Low Density) (City of Laguna Beach, 2023).
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Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND INITIAL STUDY
2 January 2025
7. Zoning
FMZ 16 would traverse the following Land Use Zones: OS/C (Open Space/Conservation Zone), R/HP (Residential/Hillside Protection Zone), R1 (Residential Low Density Zone), and MH (Mobile Home Zone) (City of Laguna Beach, 2023).
FMZ 19 would traverse the following Land Use Zones: OS/P (Open Space/Passive Zone), OS/C (Open Space/Conservation Zone), and R1 (Residential Low Density Zone) (City of Laguna Beach, 2023).
8. Description of the Project
The City of Laguna Beach Fire Department (LBFD) proposes to apply fuel management practices within the City of Laguna Beach, California (see Figure 1). FMZ 16 (Lower Hobo) and FMZ 19 (Diamond Crestview) would consist of approximately 100-foot-wide zones of reduced vegetation. Removal and/or thinning of heavy vegetation would reduce potential wildfire ignition of primarily residential properties, increase the evacuation time for residents, and provide better access for firefighters to protect structures. In addition, the proposed project would reduce fire line intensity, reduce wildfire rates of spread, and improve occupant safety. Lastly, it would protect High and Very High Value Habitat containing special-status plant species.
Since the 1950s, the City of Laguna Beach has maintained a system of fuel breaks for protection from wildfires. After the 1993 wildfires, the program was expanded, and now the City currently maintains 27 FMZs managed by goat-grazing and hand crews. According to the City of Laguna Beach, FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 lie in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, and any wildfire would be an immediate threat to structures (City of Laguna Beach, 2023). The proposed project would establish fuel breaks directly along the wildland-urban interface to protect residential and public property. The LBFD would oversee the construction and maintenance of the fuel breaks in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19.
FMZ 16, an approximately 13.66-acre zone, predominantly borders residential single-family and mobile home communities along Nyes Place, Ashton Drive, Alexander Road, Terry Road, Laguna Terrace North, M Street, and K Street as well as the Laguna Beach Community and Recreation Center and future location of the Laguna Beach Fire Department administrative offices (see Figure 2). The single-family homes in this neighborhood are adjacent to large portions of densely vegetated, steep hillsides and are susceptible to wildfire hazards. FMZ 16 contains a variety of intact and disturbed habitat and contains multiple populations of big-leaved crownbeard, a State- and federally listed threatened species and intermediate mariposa-lily, a State-listed threatened species. Other native plant species within FMZ 16 include bigpod ceanothus, laurel sumac, California buckwheat, California brittlebush, California sagebrush, black sage, toyon, holly leaf redberry, coast live oak, scrub oak, heart leaved keckiella, blue elderberry, spiny redberry, deerweed, lemonade berry, and sticky monkeyflower. Non-native species include Victorian box, ngaio tree, garden nasturtium, fountain grass, coastal wattle, bank catclaw, athel, American century plant, glossy privet, and pride of madeira.
Big-leaved crownbeard, a federal and state threatened species, occurs along Nyes Place and K Street.
Additionally, several patches of Coulter’s Matilija Poppy (included in the California Native Plant Society Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants as limited distribution) were observed in FMZ 16 adjacent to residential development. Special-status species would be flagged, and a 15-foot buffer installed during fuel management activities. See Attachment B, Biological Resources Technical Report, for additional information on special-status plants.
According to the City of Laguna Beach’s GIS (geographic information system) Constraints layers, portions of FMZ 16 are designated as High/Very High Value Habitat and Seismic Hazard Landslide Areas (City of 54 55 of 672
Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project
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Laguna Beach, 2023). Areas categorized as Very High Value Habitat or have had rare plant sightings were surveyed by a qualified biologist in summer 2023, and the project design was refined to avoid rare plants and minimize vegetation clearance in these areas. Exclusion areas would be established throughout FMZ 16 to avoid disturbance of special-status plants and drainage courses (Figure 2). Seismic Hazard Landslide Areas would require specific treatment measures to minimize erosion hazards.
Table 1 provides the recommended access points to reach FMZ 16 treatment areas.
Table 1. FMZ 16 (Lower Hobo) Access Points (from west to east)
1. Nyes Place (south of first switchback)
2. Corner of Ashton Drive and Rounsevel Terrace
3. South end of Rounsevel Terrace
4. Intersection of Laguna Terrace North and P Street
5. M Street (first side-drainage)
6. Intersection of M Street and K Street
7. K Street (near third side-drainage)
8. End of K Street
Similar to FMZ 16, FMZ 19 is located on steep, densely vegetated slopes that pose the risk of wildfire hazards to nearby structures. FMZ 19 consists of approximately 25.44 acres bounded by Diamond Street to the west, Summit Drive to the north, and La Mirada Street and Alta Vista Way to the east and is surrounded by residential single-family homes (see Figure 3). According to the City of Laguna Beach’s GIS Constraints layers, large portions of FMZ 16 are designated as High/Very High Value Habitat and Seismic Hazard Landslide Areas (City of Laguna Beach, 2023). The heavily vegetated steep slopes within and around FMZ 19 pose a risk of wildfire damage to adjacent homes and valuable habitat. FMZ 19, like FMZ 16, is also moderately impacted by non-native ornamental plants, such as Victorian box, ngaio tree, garden nasturtium, coastal wattle, bank catclaw, athel, American century plant, glossy privet, and pride of madeira, likely established by homeowners. There are also weedy invasives present including sweetclover, Italian thistle, black mustard, cape ivy, poison hemlock, tree tobacco, and castor bean. The areas with relatively intact native habitat contain laurel sumac, California buckwheat, California brittlebush, California sagebrush, black sage, coyote brush, toyon, holly leaf redberry, coast live oak, scrub oak, heart leaved keckiella, blue elderberry, sticky monkeyflower, spiny redberry, and deerweed. Big-leaved crownbeard, intermediate mariposa lily, and decumbent goldenbush, all special-status species, occur in FMZ 19.
Exclusion areas would be established throughout FMZ 19 to avoid disturbance of special-status plants and drainage courses (Figure 3). Additionally, Fish’s milkwort (included in the California Native Plant Society Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants as limited distribution) occurs in the southern portion of FMZ
19. Portions of FMZ 19 that have been categorized as High/Very High Value Habitat or have had rare plant sightings were surveyed by a qualified biologist in June and September 2023 and the project design refined to avoid rare plants and minimize vegetation clearance in these areas.
Table 2 provides the recommended access points to reach FMZ 19 treatment areas. The City will work with the contractor and homeowners to obtain access to FMZs 16 and 19.
Table 2. FMZ 19 (Diamond Crestview) Access Points
1. 1131 and 1151 Summit Way
2. Baja Street off Summit Drive
3. End of Baja Street off Del Mar Avenue
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Table 2. FMZ 19 (Diamond Crestview) Access Points
4. End of Del Mar Avenue
5. 996 and 915 Baja Street (vacant lot)
6. Alta Vista Way and Bonita Way (pullout)
7. End of Iris Way
8. End of Kilo Way
9. End of Lomita Way
10. End of San Clemente Street
11. 870 Baja Street (staircase)1
12. End of Inez/Fern Street (large staging area)1
Note: (1) Access requires homeowner permission.
Fuel Management Zone Treatment Protocols. The City’s Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones Subject to Coastal Development Permitting (referred to as the “City’s fuel modification treatment protocols”), which are included as Appendix A to this Initial Study, have been developed based on the best available science and studies. The proposed project was designed using the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols.
All fuel management activities within FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 would be conducted to reduce available vegetation for potential wildfire ignition generally within approximately 100 feet of developed structures.
Treatments outside of these areas would be limited to removal of targeted invasive species, general nonnative weed control, or tree thinning and dead branch removal (refer to appendix A). Fuel management methods would rely exclusively on hand crews due to the presence of special-status species and the steep topography. Fuel loads would be reduced or completely removed depending on species composition.
Non-native vegetation would be completely removed first; if 50 percent reduction in wildfire fuel is achieved by removing non-native vegetation, vegetation clearing would stop. If further thinning or removal needs to occur, crews would follow the hierarchical list in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols (see list under “Hand Crew Removal” below) to remove the least sensitive plants first. The project biologist may choose to adjust the order of species removal in order to preserve local diversity including, to the extent practicable, maintaining a plant community that supports sensitive and listed species likely to use the treatment area. To reduce the risk of erosion, the majority of perennial plant roots of native and non-native species would remain in erosion-prone areas.
Portions of both FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 would require specific treatment methods or complete avoidance to avoid impacts to biological resources(see Figures 2 and 3). A 25-foot buffer would be established on either side of “blue-line” drainages or streams (i.e., a water body such as a creek or stream that appears as a broken or solid blue line on a U.S. Geographical Survey topographic map). Approximately 1.09 acres in FMZ 16 and approximately 2.82 acres in FMZ 19 would be within these buffers, which would be limited to the removal of non-native plant species using hand crews only. Approximately 4.35 acres of FMZ 16 and approximately 0.28 acres of FMZ 19 containing big-leaved crownbeard, intermediate mariposa lily, decumbent goldenbush, and Fish’s milkwort would be excluded from fuel modification activities to avoid impacts to these special-status species. In erosion-prone areas, such as steep slopes and the areas previously cleared by homeowners, measures may include worker fall protection (e.g., field personnel would be trained in fall prevention, and crews would be restricted from working on slopes where field supervisors or staff judge conditions to be unsafe for unprotected work) and post-treatment erosion control measures (e.g., scattered cut native brush clippings, jute netting, straw wattles, or similar interventions as recommended by consulting geologists). If any special-status plants or animals are found, 56 57 of 672
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a trained biological monitor would flag such areas before treatment to ensure the species are protected and avoided. Within these flagged buffers herbicides may be used only in cases of targeted treatment of invasive vegetation removal as determined by a biologist and in consultation with the City. Herbicide treatment may be limited to application of cut stumps and stems of invasive species and potentially isolated spot foliar applications of individual invasive plants. Any necessary treatments outside of this range would be subject to removal of only targeted non-native, invasive weeds, or tree thinning and dead branch removal.
Treatment recommendations for FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 (see Figures 2 and 3) based on habitat type and existence of any sensitive species within the zones were developed based on initial biological surveys conducted by Aspen Environmental Group in June and September 2023. Table 3 provides the recommended acreages for each treatment type. These acreages may be slightly modified as the project is refined based on conditions at time of implementation.
Table 3. Proposed Treatment by Acreage
Treatment Methods FMZ 16 FMZ 19
Hand 8.22 22.34
Drainage or Stream buffers (invasive control only) 1.09 2.82 Exclusion areas (big-leaved crownbeard, intermediate mariposa lily, decumbent goldenbush, and Fish’s milkwort
4.35 0.28
Total 13.66 25.44
Source: Attachment B – Biological Resources Technical Report.
Hand Crew Removal. As described in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols (see Appendix A), hand crew treatment would be used in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 in compliance with the California Coastal Act.
Up to 16 hand crew workers (2 groups of 8 workers each) would be working in a single FMZ at a given time. The initial phase of vegetation removal would include the following steps:
a. Fuel modification will be conducted by hand crews with chainsaws, brush-cutters, and other hand tools.
b. Hand crew fuel modification conducted in High or Very High Value Habitat shall generally be limited to a width of 100 feet.
c.b. Crews will cut down all non-native vegetation (including unmaintained ornamental vegetation) and dead/dying native vegetation and carefully remove dead branches from trees and large shrubs. As noted above, an exception may be made where non-native shrubs are providing shading/nurse plant benefits for big-leaved crownbeard, as determined by the biological monitor. d.c. Special care will be exercised to distinguish dormant native vegetation from dead/dying native vegetation.
e.d.Tree-form shrubs (e.g., laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia) that are over 6 feet tall will be carefully pruned of their lower branches to increase the cCrown bBase hHeight to 50 percent of the plant height. For example, a 10-foot-tall plant would have its lower branches removed to a height of 5 feet. Branches will be pruned to within 1 inch or less of the branch crown. Southern Maritime Chaparral perennial shrub species shall be left fully intact except as noted below, and not pruned initiallyunless all other hierarchy opportunities have been exhausted. Alternatively, with the discretion of a qualified biologist, some plants may be pruned beginning from the upper branches, depending on the 57 58 of 672
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species and need for such pruningPruning methods shall be determined by a trained biological monitor(s) based upon needs of specific species to maximize probability of survival. f.e. For large tree species within FMZ’s, Nnon-native trees (Pinus, Eucalyptus, Washingtonia, etc. al.) shall be considered for removal on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration their potential ignitability, potential to spread fire from or across the FMZ, and property/tree ownership. f. Native large trees (Quercus, Platanus, et. al.etc.) shall be pruned of dead components, and lower small branches removed to a height of 8 feet or one half their height, whichever is less, so as to disrupt “fuel ladder” potential. Dead and down tree components on the ground below large trees shall be removed. No more than three trees may be retained in a single grouping or cluster of trees. A minimum distance of 20 feet shall be maintained between mature tree canopies. g. Remaining shrub clusters shall not exceed 400 square feet, except in the presence of sensitive species. Spacing between shrub clusters shall generally be at least 6 feet width.
Where there is still over 50 percent vegetative cover after the above material has been removed, the contractor will would remove healthy live perennial vegetation in accordance with the hierarchical list below, beginning with the first species listed, then in descending order through the list until a targeted 50 percent vegetative cover has been attained:
1. Coastal goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii)
2. Coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis)
3. California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum)
4. Black sage (Salvia mellifera)
5. California sagebrush (Artemisia californica)
6. Monkeyflower (Diplacus spp.Mimulus
aurantiacus)
6.7.Giant wildrye (Leymus condensatus)
7.8. Laurel sumac (Malosma laurina)
8.9.Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)
9.10. Lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia)
The project biologist shall provide additional guidance as necessary in addition to this hierarchy to maintain plant diversity and/or, to the extent practicable, maintain a plant community that supports sensitive and listed species likely to use the treatment area.
Stumps will be cut to within 4 inches or less of the ground. Thinning of healthy, live vegetation will be done in a dispersed manner to avoid creating new large openings. All healthy specimens of Southern Maritime Chaparral perennial species including bush rue (Cneoridium dumosum), spiny redberry (Rhamnus crocea) and bigpod lilac (Ceanothus megacarpus) will be retained.
As described in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols (see Appendix A), ephemeral water drainages or stream courses would be treated if invasive plant species (primarily pampas grass [Cortaderia spp.]) are found. The primary invasive vegetation treatment is anticipated to be herbicide application within a 25-foot buffer on either side of any blue-line drainage or stream that crosses the treatment areas as defined by a USGS map or City website, pending consultation with the City. Additional site-specific steps consistent with best environmental practice may be implemented to establish breaks in fuel continuity in corridors formed by long drainages. These corridors pose a fire hazard to nearby residences in the event of a wildfire.
Herbicides may be used for targeted treatment of invasive species as identified and determined by the project biologist as part of an Integrated Pest Management approach and in consultation with the City.
Herbicide treatment would be specific and limited to its intended use to not pose any risk to nearby sensitive species or water courses. As discussed above, herbicide application would be limited to treating specific individual plants or used in combination with a hand removal where the cut stump would be sprayed or dabbed with a sponge containing the herbicide. Herbicides would never be used on a landscape scale to remove large expanses of vegetation.
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Fire safety and prevention measures during fuel management activities would include requiring fire extinguishers and hand tools on site, prohibiting smoking, prohibiting operation of power tools during red flag warnings, and implementing proper fueling locations and practices.
Erosion Control. The majority of roots of perennial plants would be left in place to minimize erosion.
Mulch and other erosion control measures (such as scattered cut native brush clippings, straw wattles, or similar interventions) would be installed as necessary for additional protection without being obtrusive.
Haul paths would be minimized and rehabilitated with mulch or other methods as deemed appropriate by the project biologist. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33 percent or 1:3 grade) would be mulched to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs.
Disposal and Maintenance. As mentioned in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, all nonnative vegetation waste would be removed from the site, transported via truck or dumpster, and hauled to a green waste recycler. The nearest green waste recycling facility to the site is Tierra Verde Industries at 8065 Marine Way, Irvine, CA 92618, but the contractor would ultimately determine the recycling site.
Green waste that is not accepted by the green waste recycler would be hauled to a landfill. Under the proposed project, chipped native vegetation and mulch would be reused for erosion control, to retain soil moisture, and prevent weed growth within the project site. Excess materials would be hauled away for disposal as green waste. All efforts would be made to recycle as much native waste on site as possible.
Native vegetation under 3 inches in diameter may be processed with hand tools on site and spread as mulch as an alternative to hauling and chipping, if it is cut into pieces not exceeding 12 inches, lays flat on the ground, does not cover living native species, and does not exceed 12 inches in depth. All coarse nonnative material (e.g., woody debris, pampas grass leaves, giant reed stalks, etc.) live or dead, as well as trash and litter found on the project site would be removed and hauled to a landfill. The amount of trash and litter is expected to be minimal.
At the conclusion of the grant term, annual fuel break maintenance would be conducted by the City of Laguna Beach. The City would maintain fuel breaks by pruning, weeding, and controlling invasive vegetation, which may include spot treatment with herbicides at the City’s discretion. Maintenance would include the use of hand tools such as chainsaws, string trimmers, loppers, and machetes, as well as herbicide and herbicide adjuvants (i.e., additive intended to improve the effectiveness of an herbicide) when necessary and at the City’s discretion. If any private property owners opt out of the project following the initial treatment, they may be required to maintain the area to the specifications of the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols at personal expense.
Schedule. Initial clearing of vegetation is anticipated to occur as early as 20242025, and fuel modification activities are expected to occur over the course of approximately six months. Vegetation removal would occur during normal business hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding weekends, federal holidays, and adverse weather conditions such as rain and Red Flag conditions.
Continued maintenance is expected to occur annually into perpetuity with City funding and includes vegetation thinning and invasive species control.
9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting
The landscape adjacent to FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 consists primarily of two vegetation types, (1) lemonade berry scrub and (2) holly leaf cherry – toyon – greenbark ceanothus chaparral, along with populations of non-native and ornamental plant species in disturbed areas. FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 are located at varying elevations of steep canyon slopes.
The land surrounding FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 is predominantly low-density single-family residential uses, with public/institutional uses (Laguna Beach Community and Recreation Center and Laguna Beach Fire 59 60 of 672
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Department administrative offices) at 30516 Coast Highway within FMZ 16. FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 would serve as a barrier between the urban-wildland interface, as steep, undeveloped canyon slopes and hillsides are located adjacent to development in these areas. A large portion of FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 would overlap with open space that is adjacent to the residential communities. The southern portion of FMZ 16 (Laguna Terrace North, M Street, and K Street – Figures 1 and 2) is within the City’s Deferred Certification area (i.e., this area remains subject to the California Coastal Commission’s [CCC] original permit jurisdiction until land use and zoning designations for this location are effectively certified); therefore, project activities within the Deferred Certification area will need to be submitted directly to CCC for approval, and the Coastal Development Permit processed by the City will not cover this area. Additionally, because both FMZs include fuel modification activities within 100 feet of a blue-line drainage or stream, the proposed project is within the CCC’s appeals jurisdiction.
10. Other Public Agencies Whose Approval Is Required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement)
The proposed project would require the following approvals:
City of Laguna Beach Planning Commission
Coastal Development Permit, Deferred Certification, CCC 60 61 of 672
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Attachments
Figure 1: Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project Location Figure 2: Fuel Modification Zone 16 (Lower Hobo) Treatment Areas Figure 3: Fuel Modification Zone 19 (Diamond Crestview) Treatment Areas
FOR HARD COPIES, APPENDICES ARE PROVIDED ON FLASH DRIVE Appendix A: Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones Subject to Coastal Development Permitting Appendix B: Air Quality Report
Appendix C: Biological Resources Technical Report
Appendix D: Cultural Resources Assessment Report for the Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project (CONFIDENTIAL)
Appendix E: Geotechnical Evaluation of Potential Slope Stability Impacts • Geotechnical Evaluation of Potential Slope Stability Impacts, Proposed Fuel Modification Program Zone 16, Western Nyes Place and Hobo Canyon Area. • Geotechnical Evaluation of Potential Slope Stability Impacts, Proposed Fuel Modification Program, Zone 19, Diamond Crestview to Arch Beach Heights Area.
Appendix F: Paleontological Resources Summary
Appendix G: Policy Consistency Analysis Memorandum
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Figure 1: Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project Location 62 63 of 672
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Figure 2: Fuel Modification Zone 16 (Lower Hobo) Treatment Areas 63 64 of 672
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Figure 3: Fuel Modification Zone 19 (Diamond Crestview) Treatment Areas 64 65 of 672
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Environmental Factors Potentially Affected
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a “Potentially Significant Impact” and requiring implementation of mitigation as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
Aesthetics Agriculture & Forestry Resources Air Quality Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy
Geology/Soils Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hazards/Hazardous Materials Hydrology/Water Quality Land Use/Planning Mineral Resources Noise Population/Housing Public Services
Recreation Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources
Utilities/Service Systems Wildfire Mandatory Findings of Significance
Determination
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the Proposed Project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the Proposed Project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the Proposed Project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the Proposed Project MAY have a “potentially significant impact” or “potentially significant unless mitigated” impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
I find that although the Proposed Project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the Proposed Project, nothing further is required.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Robert Montaghami, Fire Marshal Date
Laguna Beach Fire Department
09/17/2024
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Evaluation of Environmental Impacts
1. AESTHETICS. Except as provided in Public
Resources Code Section 21099, would the project: Sources Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? 1, 2 Less Than Significant Impact. The project site isin an area with low to medium development and on the wildland-urban interface of a heavily vegetated landscape. Although the City of Laguna Beach’s Landscape and Scenic Highways Element in its General Plan does not officially identify specific scenic vistas, it indicates that the concept of “scenic” is based on the visibility of a natural landscape as viewed by travelers, the visual quality, and the extent to which development does not intrude upon the traveler’s enjoyment of the view. The proposed project would be located primarily near residential areas and public and institutional facilities and not highly visible to travelers from Coast Highway, the nearest eligible State scenic highway. Limited areas of the southwest-oriented portion of FMZ 16 would be partially visible from Coast Highway. However, the majority of views would be obscured due to topography, houses, and trees adjacent to Coast Highway. The proposed project would not change the topography of the hillsides within the FMZs. The fuel management activities would completely or partially remove vegetation depending on species composition, topography, and presence of cultural resources. Sensitive native vegetation would be limited to a reduction of up to a targeted 50 percent within the FMZs and follow requirements as outlined in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols. Risk of erosion would be minimized, as the majority of perennial plant roots would be left in place, and post-treatment erosion control measures would be implemented. Therefore, the proposed project would not adversely impact the surrounding natural landscape and scenic vista, and impacts would be less than significant. b. Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic
buildings within a State scenic highway?
2 Less Than Significant Impact. The project site is located between approximately 0.05 mile and 0.6 mile away from Coast Highway, the nearest eligible State scenic highway. The County describes Coast Highway as a Viewscape Corridor in its Scenic Highway Plan and identifies this road as a valuable visual resource. The FMZs are generally located behind residences as well as the Laguna Beach Community and Recreation Center and future location of the Laguna Fire Department administrative offices.
The FMZs would be obscured by the topography, houses, and trees, and therefore would be generally hidden from major public views from Coast Highway. Given that the proposed project would not be within the viewshed of a designated State scenic highway and minimal visibility from Coast Highway, impacts to scenic resources would be less than significant. c. In non-urbanized areas, substantially degrade the
existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage point).
If the project is in an urbanized area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations
governing scenic quality?
1 Less Than Significant Impact. Fuel modification activities would occur on the wildland-urban interface of predominantly residential properties and public and institutional facilities. Although both FMZs would be visible from public vantage points such as residential roads, fuel modification activities would not substantially degrade the visual character of the area. Fuel modification activities would only prune dead and dying branches from native trees and reduce vegetation to a targeted 50 percent or lessremaining native cover by prioritizing removal of non-native vegetation. Therefore, public views from residential roads would not be substantially degraded. Visibility from public viewing points along the residential roads would be limited, as homes and residential landscaping would obscure visibility of the fuel breaks. Public views of the project area during construction would be less than significant, as project activities would be limited to hand crew workers using equipment such as hand tools and trucks over a temporary period. Therefore, fuel modification activities would not degrade public views of the site and its surroundings, and the proposed project would have a less than significant impact. d. Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the
area?
No Impact. The proposed project would not introduce any lighting elements or materials that would create a new source of light or glare. Fuel modification activities would occur during the day, and no nighttime activities would occur. Therefore, the proposed project would have no impact.
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2. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES.
In determining whether impacts to agricultural
resources are significant environmental effects, lead
agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land
Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Department of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. In determining whether
impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are
significant environmental effects, lead agencies may
refer to information compiled by the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding
the state’s inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest
Legacy Assessment Project; and forest carbon
measurement methodology provided in Forest
Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources
Board. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland
Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California
Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use?
3 No Impact. According to the California Department of Conservation (DOC) California Important Farmland Finder, the proposed project does not lie within Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance and therefore would not convert farmland to non-agricultural use. The Orange County Important Farmland map depicts the locations of FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 as “urban and built-up land” and “other land” (low density rural developments not suitable for agricultural activities). Therefore, the proposed project would have no impact on Farmland. b. Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract?
4 No Impact. The proposed project would not be located within an agricultural zone or Williamson Act parcel and would not conflict with existing zoning for an agricultural use or a Williamson Act contract. Therefore, the proposed project would have no impact.
c. Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code
section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public
Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned
Timberland Production (as defined by Government
Code section 51104(g))?
4 No Impact. The proposed project would traverse the following City-designated land use zones: Open Space/Conservation, Residential/Hillside Protection, Residential Low Density, Mobile Home, and Open Space/Passive. None of the areas within the project site are zoned for forest land, timberland, or Timberland Production. The proposed activities would have no impact on forest land or timberland or cause rezoning of these lands. No conflicts with forest land zoning would occur. d. Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
4 No Impact. Because the proposed project would not occur on forest land, it would not result in the loss of forest land or convert forest land to non-forest use. The proposed project would have no impact on existing forest land. e. Involve other changes in the existing environment
which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or
conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
4 No Impact. Because the project site would not occur within or in proximity to zoned farmland or forest land, it would neither convert Farmland to non-agricultural use nor convert forest land to non-forest use. The proposed project would have no impact on Farmland or forest land.
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3. AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance
criteria established by the applicable air quality
management district or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan?
5 No Impact. South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) have developed air quality management plans (AQMPs) to meet the requirements of the Federal Clean Air Act . Air quality planning strategies to attain national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) and California ambient air quality standards (CAAQS) are implemented through rules, regulations, and programs adopted by SCAQMD and the California Air Resources Board to control ozone precursors, particulate matter (PM)10 and PM2.5. All project activities would need to comply with the applicable rules, regulations, and programs. Strategies and control measures identified within the SCAQMD 2016 Air Quality Management Plan, and the updated 2022 AQMP, apply directly to project activities as promulgated through SCAQMD’s rules and regulations.
The proposed project’s emissions sources (on-road vehicles, chainsaws) would comply with State and local emissions regulationsincluded in the currently approved SCAQMD AQMP. Additionally, the proposed project does not change any land use or growth assumptions forecast by SCAQMD and the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) in the AQMP. Additionally, the proposed project would be consistent with the City of Laguna Beach General Plan’s growth projection since it would not change any development density or population assumptions. As such, the proposed project’s initial and ongoing fuel modification activities would be consistent with the AQMP emission source estimate assumptions and consistent with the AQMP and local planning land use/growth assumptions. Accordingly, the project would be consistent with the SCAQMD’s AQMP. No impact would occur.
b. Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is nonattainment under an applicable Federal or State ambient air quality standard?
6, 7
Less Than Significant Impact. The SCAQMD has daily emissions thresholds to protect regional ambient air quality, which are outlined in Table 4. The proposed project involves hand cutting to clear vegetation in defined areas. The hand cutting and clearing would use gasoline fueled chainsaws, as many as eight operating per day, per FMZ, and other hand tools. The proposed project would also include employee commuting trips and small and large truck trips to haul waste and supplies.
The scale of use for chainsaws and daily vehicle trips would not have the potential to produce emissions near the SCAQMD regional emissions thresholds. The worst-case daily emissions1 are estimated (see Appendix B) and compared to the SCAQMD thresholds in Table 4. As shown, daily emissions would be below the SCAQMD thresholds and therefore less than significant.
Table 4. Maximum Daily Emissions (lbs/day)
VOC NOX CO PM10 PM2.5
Chainsaws 41.67 41.67 310.18 1.16 1.16
CalEEMod/On-Road Vehicles 0.10 0.11 0.96 0.34 0.10
Total 41.77 41.78 311.14 1.49 1.26
SCAQMD Regional Significance Thresholds 75 100 550 150 55 Significant? NO NO NO NO NO
Source: Appendix B.
Acronyms: VOC = volatile organic compounds; CO = Carbon Monoxide; NOx = Nitrogen Oxides; PM10 = Particulate Matter of diameter 10 micrometers or less; PM2.5 = Fine Particulate Matter of diameter less than 2.5 micrometers.
Note: VOC and NOx emissions factor for spark ignition engines (chainsaws) is based on a combined not to exceed value. To be conservative, both are assumed to be at the upper limit, but for gasoline-fueled engines the emissions will be primarily VOC emissions.
The proposed project is also required to comply with applicable rules and regulations, such as SCAQMD Rule 403 – Fugitive Dust, which requires control of fugitive dust causing activities. However, since grading, or other major earth-moving activities would not occur and unpaved road travel is unlikely to occur, fugitive dust emissions are expected be negligible and there 1 The maximum daily emissions are estimated with the following conservative assumptions: Eight 5.5 horsepower (HP) California Air Resources Board (CARB) spark-engine emissions factor-compliant gasoline powered chainsaws operating 8 hours per day, 16 passenger vehicle round trips per day, and 40 total haul trips. 68 69 of 672
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3. AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance
criteria established by the applicable air quality
management district or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
would be no need for fugitive dust control mitigation measures; impacts would be less than significant. In the unlikely event that off-road vehicle use would occur, vehicles would likely travel short distances over vegetated areas to gather cut vegetation wastes. Fugitive dust impacts would remain less than significant because the vegetated ground cover would reduce dust emissions. Similarly, impacts during ongoing annual fuel modification activities, which involve a much lower level of activity than the initial fuel modification activities, would be below the SCAQMD thresholds, and the impact of project daily emissions would be less than significant.
c. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations?
8 Less Than Significant Impact. The project site is adjacent to sensitive receptors, specifically residential uses. Air pollutant emissions generated by construction activities are anticipated to cause temporary increases in local air pollutant concentrations.
However, the construction equipment (e.g., chainsaws) used during hand clearing would generate minimal emissions, and the emissions would not occur rates that would exceed the SCAQMD’s screening level localized significance thresholds (LST).
Table 5 shows that the maximum daily emissions estimate including on-road emissions, which occur on area roadways accessing the sites and are not localized to the site, would be below the SCAQMD LSTs, when compared to the most conservative LST table assumptions for the proposed project (1-acre daily working area within the project site area that could be within 25 meters of a sensitive receptor).
Table 5. Maximum Daily Emissions (lbs/day)
CO NOX PM10 PM2.5
Chainsaws 310.18 41.67 1.16 1.16
CalEEMod/On-Road Vehicles 0.96 0.11 0.34 0.10
Total 311.14 41.78 1.49 1.26
SCAQMD Localized Significance Thresholds 647 92 4 3
Significant? NO NO NO NO
Source: Appendix B.
Notes: Thresholds are for SRA 20 (Central Orange County Coastal). VOC does not have an LST.
Emissions are total daily emissions; the localized maximum daily emissions would be lower.
The quantity of toxic air contaminant (TAC) emissions from proposed project emissions sources, given the quantity and short duration of the proposed project’s TAC emissions, are similarly minor in the context of the SCAQMD TAC significance thresholds. Given the low localized emissions potential for the proposed project, the impact of localized pollutant concentrations would be less than significant.
d. Result in other emissions (such as those leading to
odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of
people?
Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project would not emit objectionable odors that would affect a substantial number of people. The proposed project would include emissions from construction equipment (e.g., chainsaws) that may generate minor odors; however, these odors would not be highly objectionable near the source, would dissipate quickly, and would be temporary. Therefore, the proposed project’s odor sources would not affect a substantial number of people. A small amount of nuisance dust emissions would be generated by the proposed project, but these emissions would be minor; limited to dust kicked up by workers and limited short vehicle trips over vegetated areas. Additionally, the proposed project would be required to comply with the SCAQMD Rule 402, Nuisance. Therefore, objectionable odors and other nuisance emissions would not adversely affect a substantial number of people, and this impact would be less than significant. 69 70 of 672
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4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special-status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service?
9 Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. A biological resources report was prepared in 2023 for the proposed project. This report included a literature review of biological resources known from the area and field surveys to assess the habitat and search for special-status species, map jurisdictional drainages, and map vegetation. During the surveys, one State and federally listed species, big-leaved crownbeard (Verbesina dissita), was identified within the project site. The proposed project has been modified with exclusion areas (see Table 3) to avoid any potential impacts to big-leaved crownbeard.
California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica), which is federally listed, was also determined to have a moderate potential to occur in coastal sage scrub habitat in or adjacent to the project site. Crotch bumble bee (Bombus crotchii), which is a state candidate for listing, was also determined to have a moderate potential to occur in coastal sage scrub habitat in or adjacent to the project site. Impacts to these species, including harassing, harming, pursuing, wounding, or killing would be significant, and without mitigation, the proposed project would have the potential to “take” these species. With implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 (designation of a Project Biologist), BIO-2 (pre-construction survey for special-status species), BIO-3 (nesting bird avoidance), BIO-4 (biological monitoring), and BIO-5 (environmental training), impacts to these species, including “take” would be avoided and reduced to a less-than-significant level. Furthermore, habitat for both these species is abundant throughout the vicinity of the project site, and removal or thinning of a limited amount of suitable habitat would therefore be negligible.
Four additional special-status plants were present during focused surveys in 2023 and include intermediate mariposa-lily (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius), decumbent goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii var. decumbens), Fish’s milkwort (Polygala cornuta var. fishiae), Coulter's matilija poppy (Romneya coulteri). Several additional special-status plants have a potential to be present including Catalina mariposa lily (Calochortus catalinae), summer holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia ssp. diversifolia), paniculate tarplant (Deinandra paniculata), western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis), many-stemmed dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis), Southern California black walnut (Juglans californica), Robinson’s pepper grass (Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii), Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa); however, none of these were detected during the 2023 focused surveys.
Intermediate mariposa-lily, summer holly, many-stemmed dudleya, decumbent goldenbush, and Nuttall’s scrub oak have a California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) of 1B which indicates these plants are rare, threatened, or endangered in California and impacts to these species may be significant. Mitigation Measures (MMs) BIO-1 (designation of a Project Biologist), BIO-2 (pre-construction survey for special-status species), BIO-4 (biological monitoring), and BIO-5 (environmental training), would reduce the impact to these species to a less-than-significant level. Impacts would be avoided by (1) requiring a preconstruction clearance survey for special-status species, (2) identifying buffer areas around any special-status biological resources within or near the project site, and (3) conducting biological monitoring and environmental training.
Catalina mariposa lily, paniculate tarplant, western dichondra, Southern California black walnut, Robinson’s pepper grass, Fish’s milkwort, and Coulter’s matilija poppy all have a CRPR of 4, which indicates that these species have a limited range but are not considered to be rare, threatened, or endangered in California. As such, impacts to these species are not considered to be significant and no mitigation is required.
One special-status wildlife species, Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) was detected within the project site during the surveys. Several additional special-status species, as noted in Table 3 of the Biological Resources Technical Report (see Appendix C), have varying degrees of potential to be present and include orange-throated whiptail (Aspidoscelis hyperythra), coastal whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri), red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber), coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii), Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens), golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), coastal cactus wren (Campylorhychus brunneicapillus sandiegensis), white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), California horned lark (Eremophila alpestris actia), American peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis), and San Diego desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia).
Many of these species are State Species of Special Concern as designated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Impacts to these species may be significant and could include harass, harm, pursue, wound, or kill. With implementation of MMs BIO-1 (designation of a Project Biologist), BIO-2 (pre-construction survey for special-status species), BIO-3 (nesting bird avoidance), BIO-4 (biological monitoring), and BIO-5 (environmental training), impacts to these species would be reduced to a less-than-significant level. Impacts would be avoided by (1) avoiding nesting season, if possible, (2) requiring a pre-construction clearance survey for special-status species, (3) requiring a pre-construction clearance 70 71 of 672
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4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
surveys during bird nesting season, (4) identifying buffer areas around any bird nest or special-status biological resources within or near the project site, and (5) conducting environmental training.
The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Fish and Game Code Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513 prohibit take of migratory birds, including eggs or active nests, except as permitted by regulation (e.g., licensed hunting). MMs BIO1 (designation of a Project Biologist), BIO-3 (nesting bird avoidance), BIO-4 (biological monitoring), and BIO-5 (environmental training), would avoid potential “take” or other adverse impacts to nesting birds by (1) avoiding nesting season if possible, (2) requiring a pre-construction clearance surveys during bird nesting season, (3) identifying buffer areas around any bird nest within or near the project site, and (4) conducting environmental training.
Mitigation Measures
BIO-1 The City of Laguna Beach (City) shall assign a qualified biologist to the project (i.e., Project Biologist). The qualified biologist shall be responsible for conducting pre-construction surveys (MM BIO-2), implementing nesting bird avoidance (MM BIO-3), monitoring project activities (MM BIO-4), and conducting worker training (MM BIO-5). The "qualified biologist" is defined as a person with appropriate education, training, and experience to conduct the required surveys, monitor project activities, provide worker education programs, and supervise or perform other monitoring-related actions. The Project Biologist shall be authorized by the City to temporarily halt project activities, if needed, to prevent take of listed species or harm to any other special-status species.
BIO-2 Prior to start of project activities, the Project Biologist shall survey the work area to determine if any special-status species are present. During the survey, the Project Biologist shall search for nesting birds, special-status plants, and other special-status species. Pre-clearing surveys shall be performed during the appropriate blooming period for special-status plants to ensure species present are identified. Any special-status species or sensitive resources shall be flagged and avoided, in coordination with the Project Biologist. If big-leaved crownbeard are located within the project site, they shall be flagged, and a 50-foot buffer installed. Plants with a CRPR of 1B or 2B shall be flagged and a 15-foot buffer installed. Any willow canopy that falls outside the 25-foot buffer around “blue-line” drainages (per the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols), shall be avoided. San Diego desert woodrat nests shall be avoided with a 15-foot buffer. No work shall be permitted within these buffers. The Project Biologist shall also flag coast live oak seedlings and western sycamore seedlings for avoidance, as feasible. The Project Biologist shall also search for shot hole borers on all oak and sycamore trees that are proposed for pruning. If shot hole borers are found, the Project Biologist shall notify the City who will then coordinate with CDFW, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. All pruning tools shall be cleaned and disinfected prior to use within the project area and at least weekly during the project to further reduce the spread of pathogens. To the extent practicable, thinning within coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats shall be limited to winter months outside the growing season.
BIO-3 Vegetation removal and initial ground disturbance shall be completed outside the breeding season (i.e., no removal of potential nesting habitat from January 1 through September 1), or after a pre-construction nesting bird survey has been completed. The Project Biologist shall confirm that no birds are nesting in or adjacent to areas to be disturbed. If native birds are nesting on the site, then project activities shall be postponed until nesting is completed or the Project Biologist shall designate appropriate avoidance buffers around nests to protect nesting birds. No project related disturbance shall be allowed within these buffers.
BIO-4 The Project Biologist shall be present as needed on the project site during vegetation clearing done by hand crews to document compliance with the avoidance and minimization measures and to provide guidance in avoiding or minimizing impacts to biological resources. The Project Biologist shall also conduct quarterly monitoring of the project site for 12 months after the completion of the fuel treatment. During this post-treatment monitoring the Project Biologist shall inspect the mulched plant material for Argentine ants and will also note wildlife use of the treatment areas. If Argentine ants are found within the mulched plant material, the City shall implement an ant control program to remove them from these areas. If any new non-native plants are found within the project area, the City shall implement a control program for these species to ensure they are eradicated and not allowed to spread into adjacent natural lands.
BIO-5 The Project Biologist shall conduct training to ensure that all workers on the project site are aware of all applicable mitigation measures for biological resources. Specifically, workers shall be required to (1) limit all activities to approved work areas; (2) report any special-status species; (3) report any bird nests; (4) avoid contact with any wildlife that may approach a work area, and be aware of potential venomous reptile bites from carelessness or unnecessary harassment; (5) pick up and properly dispose of any food, trash, or construction refuse; and (6) report any spilled materials (e.g., oil, fuel, solvent, engine coolant, raw concrete, or other material potentially hazardous to wildlife) to the supervisor. During the training, the Project Biologist shall briefly discuss special-status species that may occur in the work areas, their habitats, and requirements to avoid or minimize impacts. In addition, all workers shall be informed of civil and criminal penalties for violations of the federal Endangered Species Act, California Endangered Species Act, and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
71 72 of 672
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4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian
habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
9 Less Than Significant Impact. Impacts to native vegetation would focus on the removal of non-native species and dead or dying material to reduce vegetative cover by up to 50 percent, as specified in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols.
The project site includes several drainage courses that do not support riparian habitat, but many have scattered riparian species. Impacts to these drainage courses would be avoided in accordance with the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, which require a 25-foot buffer be established on either side of any “blue-line” ephemeral drainages or stream courses crossing the treatment area.
The proposed project would also result in direct impacts to approximately 21.58 acres of Lemonade Berry Scrub (Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance) habitat which has a State Rank of S3, and impacts may be significant. This includes 19.80 acres within the hand treatment areas and 1.78 acres within the drainage course buffers. Per the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, impacts to areas of chaparral habitat, including Lemonade Berry Scrub, would not have more than 50-percent of the vegetation removed in accordance with the hierarchy developed for the proposed project (Appendix A).
Specifically, vegetation thinning would remove all non-native species first and then have additional native removals where there is still more than 50-percent cover. Per the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, Lemonade Berry Scrub is the last element in the removal hierarchy, which would limit the amount of Lemonade Berry Scrub that would otherwise be removed, reducing impacts to less than significant.
Additionally, the proposed project would impact a combined total of 8.38 acres of High Value (6.95 acres) and Very High Value (1.43 acres), as identified by the City of Laguna Beach Local Coastal Program. This includes habitats consisting of chaparral and coastal sage habitat types. Impacts would be reduced to less than significant with the avoidance of the High and Very High Habitat Value and big-leaved crownbeard, per the proposed project’s exclusion areas and measures set forth in the City’s Treatment Protocols. With implementation of the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, impacts to High and Very High Value Habitat would be reduced to less than significant. c. Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means?
9 Less Than Significant Impact. There are no wetlands as defined by the state or under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, and there would be no impacts due to implementation of the proposed project. An assessment of jurisdictional features within the project site was conducted by Aspen. One United States Geological Survey (USGS) blue-line drainage and portions of 14 segments of Significant Stream Courses occur within the project site. Alteration to these drainages would necessitate authorization from the California Regional Water Quality Control Board in Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. In addition, the streambeds and any adjacent riparian vegetation on the project site are regulated under Section 1600 of the California Fish and Game Code and alteration to these features would necessitate authorization from the CDFW. As noted in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, a 25-foot buffer on each side of each significant drainage course would be established and the only vegetation removed from within the significant drainage course would consist of non-native invasive species identified during pre-removal surveys (primarily pampas grass [Cortaderia spp.]). With establishment of the 25-foot buffers from both edges of each significant drainage and limited vegetation removal, impacts to drainages as defined by the City’s Local Coastal Program would be less than significant.
d. Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with
established native resident or migratory wildlife
corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. The proposed project encompasses natural lands at the edge of residential development. It supports limited wildlife movement as a result of the surrounding development and steep terrain.
Movement through the project site appears to be limited to low-lying canyon bottoms and is not likely to occur in areas immediately adjacent to residential development where fuel modification activities are proposed. Additionally, the proposed project is not expected to erect any permanent barriers to wildlife movement or alter wildlife movement through the area; therefore, the proposed project would have no significant impact on wildlife movement. 72 73 of 672
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4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
The project site provides suitable nesting habitat for many birds and nursery sites for other wildlife species. Impacts to nesting bird would be avoided with implementation of MM BIO-3 (nesting bird avoidance) as discussed above for question (a). No additional mitigation measures are needed to reduce impacts to a less-than-significant level. Any impacts to common wildlife species would be less than significant given that habitat would either not be removed, would be improved by removal of non-natives, and similar habitat is abundant throughout the vicinity of the project site. Impacts would be less than significant.
e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
9 Less Than Significant Impact. The project site is located within the coastal zone, which is under the permitting authority of the City of Laguna Beach through the City’s Local Coastal Program. In addition, the City has inventoried biological resources occurring within the City and has designated several categories of habitat value, ranging from low value habitats to very high value habitats. A portion of the project site occurs within an area designated as high and very high value habitat. The City requires that all development proposals, including fuel modification proposals, located within or adjacent to high value or very high value habitat, undergo detailed biological assessments. Pursuant to the City’s general plan, these biological assessments are to utilize the biological value criteria specified in the City’s Biological Resource Inventories to conduct an updated, and smaller-scale assessment of the resources present on site.
The proposed project would impact High and Very High Value Habitats consisting of coastal sage or chaparral habitats. The project proposes to reduce the cover within these areas by up to 50 percent with selective thinning. The impact to High and Very High Value Habitats would be less than significant because habitat would not be entirely removed from the project site, is abundant in the open space surrounding the project site, and the total acreage of potential impacts to these habitats would be limited. Removal of non-native invasives would benefit habitat.
Additionally, to protect watershed areas and natural watercourses, the City has designated certain drainage features throughout the City as “significant drainage courses.” Avoidance of these drainage courses is recommended within the City’s General Plan to minimize the likelihood of disasters such as flooding and mudslides, and to protect water supply, water quality, and valuable habitat lands and ecological systems. As discussed under question (c), one USGS blue-line drainage and portions of 14 segments of Significant Stream Courses are present within the project site. With establishment of the 25-foot buffers from both edges of each significant drainage and limited vegetation removal per the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, impacts to the City’s significant drainage courses would be less than significant.
Lastly, for areas with coast live oak or western sycamore trees, trees would not be removed. Rather, as set forth in the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, large trees such as oaks and sycamores shall be pruned of dead components, and lower small branches removed to a height of 8 feet or one half their height, whichever is less, to disrupt “fuel ladder” potential. Dead and down tree components on the ground below large trees shall be removed. With implementation of City’s fuel modification treatment protocols (Appendix A), the project would not conflict with local policies and ordinances and impacts to the large trees would be less than significant. f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation
Plan, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan?
Less Than Significant Impact. The project site is entirely within the Orange County Central Coastal Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP)/ Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) area. The City of Laguna Beach is not a signatory to the Orange County Central Coastal NCCP/HCP and the project does not conflict with the NCCP/HCP because the project proposes to remove invasive species from the project site and reduce the total cover by up to 50 percent using only hand tools. It does not propose to completely remove native habitat. In addition, all potential impacts to sensitive habitats and species are mitigated for as described elsewhere in this document. As such, the proposed project would not conflict with adopted HCPs, NCCPs, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan. 73 74 of 672
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5. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to §15064.5?
10 Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. A cultural resources study was prepared for the project site (Appendix D – Confidential). The study included a cultural resources records search at the South Central Coastal Information Center (SCCIC), a Native American Heritage Commission Sacred Lands File search, Tribal outreach, and an attempted field survey. The record search showed that neither FMZ 16 nor FMZ 19 have been subjected to an archaeological study thus no previously recorded resources have been identified. However, a large pre-contact village site was identified within 0.25-miles of the project area. A pedestrian survey was not feasible at the time of the study because of safety concerns with the steep slopes and the density of vegetation. Since the project area is sensitive for cultural resources, including those that could be considered historical resources under CEQA, and a pedestrian survey was not feasible, it is possible the project could impact resources that are yet to be documented. As such, MMs CUL-1 and CUL-2 are recommended to reduce impacts to unanticipated discoveries to a less-than-significant level.
Mitigation Measures
CUL-1 A qualified professional archaeologist and local Native American monitor shall be retained to provide monitoring services when crews are working in areas on slopes less than 30 degrees. If any such resources are discovered when the monitor is not present, contractors should stop work in the immediate area of the find and contact the archaeologist to assess the nature of the find and determine if future monitoring is appropriate. If deemed appropriate, monitoring should continue until vegetation removal activities are complete, or until the monitoring archaeologist, based on field observations, is satisfied there is no likelihood of encountering intact archaeological deposits. Upon completion of any monitoring activities, the archaeologist should prepare a report to document the methods and results of monitoring activities. This report should be submitted to the South Central Coastal Information Center.
CUL-2 Prior to the initiation of construction, all construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified archaeologist regarding the recognition of possible buried cultural resources (i.e., prehistoric and/or historical artifacts, objects, or features) and protection of all archaeological resources during construction. Training shall inform all construction personnel of the procedures to be followed upon the discovery of cultural materials. All personnel shall be instructed that unauthorized removal or collection of artifacts is a violation of State law. Any excavation contract (or contracts for other activities that may have subsurface soil impacts) shall include clauses that require construction personnel to attend the Workers’ Environmental Training Program, so they are aware of the potential for inadvertently exposing buried archaeological deposits.
b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5?
10 Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. The record search showed that neither FMZ 16 nor FMZ 19 have been subjected to an archaeological study thus no previously recorded resources have been identified. However, a large precontact village site was identified within 0.25-miles of the project area. A pedestrian survey was not feasible at the time of the study because of safety concerns with the steep slopes and the density of vegetation. Since the project area is sensitive for archaeological resources, particularly rock shelters, and a pedestrian survey was not feasible, it is possible the project could impact resources that are yet to be documented. As such, MMs CUL-1 and CUL-2 are recommended to reduce impacts to unanticipated discoveries to a less-than-significant level. c. Disturb any human remains, including those interred
outside of dedicated cemeteries?
10 Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. No human remains, including those interred outside of dedicated cemeteries, are known in the project site. The project site therefore has a low sensitivity for encountering human remains.
MM CUL-3 is recommended to reduce this impact to a less-than-significant level.
Mitigation Measure
CUL-3 All human remains discovered are to be treated with respect and dignity. Upon discovery of human remains, all work within 50 feet of the discovery area must cease immediately, nothing is to be disturbed, and the area must be secured.
The County Coroner’s Office must be called. The Coroner has two working days to examine the remains after notification.
The appropriate land manager/owner of the site (i.e., Orange County Parks) is to be called and informed of the discovery.
It is very important that the suspected remains, and the area around them, are undisturbed and the proper authorities called to the scene as soon as possible, as it could be a crime scene. The Coroner will determine if the remains are archaeological/historic or of modern origin and if there are any criminal or jurisdictional questions.
After the Coroner has determined the remains are archaeological/historic-era, the Coroner will make recommendations concerning the treatment and disposition of the remains to the person responsible for the excavation, or to his or her 74 75 of 672
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5. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
authorized representative. If the Coroner believes the remains to be those of a Native American, he/she shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) by telephone within 24 hours.
The NAHC will immediately notify the person it believes to be the most likely descendant (MLD) of the remains. The MLD has 48 hours to make recommendations to the landowner for treatment or disposition of the human remains. If the descendant does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the landowner shall reinter the remains in an area of the property secure from further disturbance. If the landowner does not accept the descendant’s recommendations, the owner or the descendant may request mediation by NAHC.
According to the California Health and Safety Code, six (6) or more human burials at one (1) location constitute a cemetery (Section 8100), and willful disturbance of human remains is a felony (Section 7052).
6. ENERGY. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or
operation?
Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project would consume energy in the form of diesel and gasoline fuels used in offroad equipment (woodchipper) and on-road vehicles and hand-held equipment (chainsaws). The proposed project is designed to efficiently remove areas of heavy vegetation that pose a wildfire threat. The proposed project is designed to reduce the potential for wildfires, which would indirectly reduce the potential for much greater future energy consumption events that would otherwise be required for firefighting and fire damage repair without the proposed project. Therefore, the proposed project would not include the wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources. Impacts would be less than significant.
b. Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for
renewable energy or energy efficiency?
Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project does not include renewable energy, restrict renewable energy projects, or restrict the use of renewable energy. The proposed project does not include energy consumption sources that are directly subject to State or local energy efficiency plans. Indirectly, on-road vehicles used during fuel management activities would have to meet the ongoing federal and State fuel efficiency requirements. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with or obstruct a State or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency. Impacts would be less than significant.
7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated
on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault
Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the
area or based on other substantial evidence of a
known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and
Geology Special Publication 42.
11 No Impact. According to the California Geological Survey (CGS) Earthquake Hazards Zone Application, no known Alquist-Priolo earthquake fault zones exist across or immediately adjacent to FMZ 16 and FMZ 19. The closest Alquist-Priolo earthquake fault zone to the project is along the Newport-Inglewood fault zone approximately 15 miles northwest of the project site.
Therefore, the fuel modification activities would have no impact on the potential cause of the rupture of an Alquist-Priolo earthquake fault zone nor would rupture of an Alquist-Priolo earthquake fault zone result in adverse effects from the project.
No impact would occur.
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7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? 11, 12
Less Than Significant Impact. The Laguna Beach area is located within seismically active Southern California with numerous active on- and offshore faults within 50 miles of the project capable of producing strong seismic ground shaking. The closest mapped active onshore fault to the project is the Newport-Inglewood fault zone located approximately 15 miles northwest of the project site, and the closest offshore fault is the offshore segment of the Newport-Inglewood fault zone located approximately 2 miles offshore from the project site. Strong to severe ground shaking could occur due to large earthquakes on any of the significant active faults in the region. Despite the potential for strong seismic ground shaking within the project area, none of the proposed project activities involve the erection of structures or grading, thus eliminating any risk of additional substantial adverse effects to human life and health caused by seismic ground shaking. Impacts would be less-than-significant. iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
11 No Impact. According to the CGS Earthquake Hazards Zone Application, FMZ 19 is not located within or near a liquefaction zone.
The valley sediments underlying Hobo Canyon (along K and M Streets) near the southern end of FMZ 16 are, however, mapped as within a liquefaction zone. The adjacent slopes where fuel modification for FMZ 16 would occur are not located within a mapped liquefaction zone. Furthermore, the proposed project would not exacerbate seismic-related ground failure such as liquefaction. No structures would be constructed that could be damaged due to liquefaction. Therefore, the proposed project would have no impact on causing adverse effects relating to seismic-related ground failure. iv) Landslides? 1, 11, 13, 14
Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. According to the CGS Earthquake Hazards Zone Application, portions of both FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 are located within landslide zones. However, the proposed project’s activities would not exacerbate the risk of landslides because the exclusive use of hand removal would avoid complete removal of vegetation and reduce erosion, reducing the probability of a landslide. In very steep areas and slopes previously cleared by homeowners, post-treatment erosion control measures such as scattered cut native brush clippings, jute netting, or similar interventions as recommended in the FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 geotechnical reports (see Appendix E) would be implemented to further minimize the potential for landslides. The use of hand crew treatment would leave up to 50 percent or more of native perennial root systems in the soil which would aid in retaining slope stability. As assessed in the project-specific geotechnical evaluation reports (provided as Appendix E to this Initial Study), the overall likelihood of increased gross slope instability as a result of fuel modification is very low. No mapped landslides are present on the slopes within FMZ 16. However, several minor, mature existing mapped landslides are present underlying portions of FMZ 19 (see Appendix E). These landslides are mantled by thin residual soils. One of the existing landslides identified within FMZ 19 has been repaired by grading and placement of buttress fill.
The majority of the fuel modification areas are underlain by relatively shallow soil and moderately hard to very hard bedrock.
Residual soils on the bedrock are subject to shallow instability in moderately steep terrain, but steep slopes do not typically support soil accumulation, and therefore pose a relatively low debris flow potential. A study on shallow soil instability that includes the project area by the USGS indicates that the risk for surficial instability on the upper slopes near some of the adjacent residential properties varies from low to high, with high-risk areas appearing to be focused near the mapped minor failures (Appendix E – see red areas in “Slope Ratio – Zone 16” for FMZ 16 and “Slope Ratio, Regional Geology, Landslides” for FMZ 19). Fuel modification efforts are not anticipated to have significant impacts on the relatively minor landslide deposits identified on the ridges in FMZ 19. Sensitive surficial instability areas are indicated in both figures in each geotechnical report (see Appendix E – “Slope Ratio – Zone 16” and “Slope Ratio, Regional Geology, Landslides”). As suggested in the geotechnical evaluation reports, MM GEO-1 is recommended, which would require vegetation to be removed in the spring and completed in the early summer in landslide-prone areas within the FMZs, limiting fuel modification effort to the canopy and seasonal grasses, minimizing damage to existing root systems, and using spray adhesives, fiber rolls, or jute matting to maintain soil stability in landslide-prone areas in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
Mitigation Measure
GEO-1 The City of Laguna Beach shall adhere to the following fuel modification protocols in landslide-prone areas in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19:
• Fuel modification activities shall be conducted in the spring and summer and allow for some re-establishment of the native canopy prior to the next rainy season.
• Fuel modification efforts shall be limited to the canopy and seasonal grasses and should minimize damage to the existing root systems.
• Spray adhesives, fiber rolls, or jute matting shall be used in areas with a thick accumulation of soil on slopes between a 2:1 to 1:1 (horizontal:vertical) ratio prior to winter. 76 77 of 672
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7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
b. Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? 1 Less Than Significant Impact. Although there is potential for project activities to increase soil erosion and topsoil loss, the use of hand crew treatment would leave up to 50 percent or more of native perennial root systems in the soil to minimize potential for erosion. Removed native vegetation may be chipped and spread on the ground for erosion protection. Other erosion control methods such as scattered cut native brush clippings, straw wattles, or similar interventions would be installed where necessary, as recommended by the geotechnical reports. Haul paths would be minimized and rehabilitated with mulch or other methods as deemed appropriate by the Project Biologist. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33 percent or 1:3 grade) would be mulched to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs. The proposed project would not use heavy machinery that would disrupt a substantial amount of topsoil. Therefore, impacts to soil erosion or loss of topsoil would be less than significant. c. Be located on geologic units or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project,
and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse?
13, 14
Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated. According to the geotechnical reports (see Appendix E), some slopes in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 with horizontal:vertical ratios ranging from 4:1 to 2:1 have a moderate potential for debris and/or mudflows from major fuel modification activities, and slopes with ratios of 2:1 to 1:1 have high potential. These areas are shown in the figures in the geotechnical reports (see Appendix E – “Slope Ratio – Zone 16” for FMZ 16 and “Slope Ratio, Regional Geology, Landslides” for FMZ 19). In these areas, safety measures would include worker fall protection (e.g., field personnel would be trained in fall prevention, and crews would be restricted from working on slopes where field supervisors or staff judge conditions to be unsafe for unprotected work) and post-treatment erosion control measures (e.g., scattered cut native brush clippings, jute netting, straw wattles, or similar interventions as recommended by consulting geologists). Furthermore, MM GEO-1 would reduce the risk of landslides, lateral spreading, liquefaction, and collapse in areas of unstable geologic units.
Therefore, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. d. Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table
18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating
substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property?* No Impact. Under the proposed project, no new structures or buildings would be built. Therefore, the potential presence of expansive soil would not cause adverse effects to structures or buildings resulting in risks to life or property. No impact from expansive soil would occur.
e. Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal
systems where sewers are not available for the
disposal of wastewater?
No Impact. The proposed project would not require the development or use of any septic or wastewater disposal systems. No impact from soils incapable of supporting wastewater disposal would occur. f. Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature?
15 Less Than Significant Impact. A paleontological resource report was completed covering the project area (see Appendix F).
According to the report, the project area is mostly underlain by San Onofre Breccia and some exposures of the Topanga Group and Old Quaternary paralic deposits. The paleontological resources records search yielded no localities within the project area. However, there were four localities in the general area in the Topanga Formation, and two within the San Onofre Breccia. As determined in the report, the proposed project is unlikely to substantially impact unique paleontological resources because ground disturbance would be minimal. There is no clear evidence that the either the Topanga Group, the San Onofre Breccia, or the Old Quaternary paralic deposits would be impacted and would at most be impacted only by pedestrian traffic. Therefore, the proposed project would result in less-than-significant impacts. 77 78 of 672
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8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the
environment?
6 Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project would generate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the removal of vegetation with off-road construction equipment. The period of construction would be short-term, and construction-phase GHG emissions would occur directly from the off-road equipment used at the project site. Maintenance and operations would be negligible as the proposed project would only remove vegetation and does not revisit the site after.
The SCAQMD has established a GHG significance threshold for industrial facilities in terms of carbon dioxide-equivalents (CO2e) of 10,000 metric tons per year. This threshold is based on project-life amortized average annual emissions. The SCAQMD has also proposed, but not adopted, the use of a “bright line” GHG emissions significance threshold of 3,000 MT CO2e/year for residential/commercial projects. Other local jurisdictions in Southern California, such as Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County have approved this emissions level as a CEQA screening level or significance threshold, which is considered reasonable and appropriate for the proposed project. The proposed project’s emissions include temporary emissions from vehicles, chainsaws, and other handheld mechanical devices. The proposed project’s total GHG emissions would be substantially below the significance threshold of 3,000 MT CO2e (<30 MT CO2e); therefore, the impact on the environment of GHG emissions generated by the proposed project would be less than significant. b. Conflict with any applicable plan, policy or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose of reducing the
emissions of greenhouse gases?
16, 17
Less Than Significant Impact. GHG emissions for the proposed project would be generated from off-road equipment uses and are expected to be minimal. Operational GHG emissions, as noted above, would be negligible. Estimated GHG emissions of the proposed project would be well below the threshold of the federal and State mandatory reporting regulations. The proposed project’s GHG emissions would not trigger regulatory action under the federal 40 Code of Federal Regulations Part 52 or the State Cap-and-Trade regulations. Other applicable plans adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions include the most recent California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Scoping Plan (the 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality), Southern California Association of Government’s (SCAG’s) 2020-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/ Sustainable Communities Strategy, and the City of Laguna Beach Climate Protection Action Plan. The proposed project would temporarily generate small amounts of GHG emissions during fuel modification activities by using small off-road equipment items such as chainsaws, and through the necessary vehicle trips for the workers’ commutes, contractor work trucks, and waste haul trucks. The proposed project would not change the project area’s use, and the less intensive ongoing annual vegetation maintenance would not result in substantial long-term emissions. The proposed project would also appropriately dispose of green waste; all efforts would be made to recycle as much native waste on site as possible. Native green waste may be chipped or mulched and applied on the project site, and non-native green waste would be sent to a green waste recycler.
These disposal methods conform with State and City GHG emissions reduction goals to maximize recycling and minimize landfill waste. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with any applicable plan, policy, or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing the GHG emissions. This impact would be less than significant.
9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
1 Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated. The proposed project would not involve the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. Equipment would be limited to hand tools (e.g., chainsaws, brush-cutters), chippers, and trucks during temporary fuel modification activities. Many of these tools would be powered by gas and/or diesel fuel. Any on-site refueling would need to occur in a containment system to prevent spills, as required by MM HAZ-1. Similarly, trucks would need to be fueled off site (see MM HAZ-1). Per the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, herbicides would be used for spot treatment of invasive species, would not occur within 25 feet of any blue-line ephemeral drainages or stream courses that cross the treatment areas, and would be specific to the intended use and be used in a manner as not to pose excessive risk to nearby sensitive species or water courses. Herbicides would not be used on a landscape scale to defoliate large expanses of vegetation. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. 78 79 of 672
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9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
Mitigation Measure
HAZ-1 The City of Laguna Beach shall include the following provisions or similar in the contractor bid contract for hand clearing:
• All power tools shall be fueled in an area clear of fire hazards. • Fueling of power tools in the fuel modification zones shall occur over a containment system (e.g., plastic tray or tub) to catch and prevent spills.
• Any fuel spills shall be cleaned up immediately and properly disposed. • All trucks and larger equipment, such as chippers, shall be fueled off site. • Engine fuel shall not be used as a cleaning solvent.
b. Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and
accident conditions involving the release of hazardous
materials into the environment?
1 Less Than Significant Impact. Hazardous material used during temporary fuel modification activities would be limited to gas and/or diesel fuel for equipment and herbicides (if targeted treatment for invasive species is required and determined necessary by a qualified biologist as part of an Integrated Pest Management approach and in consultation with the City).
Herbicide application, if used, would be limited to treating specific individual plants or used in combination with hand removal where the cut stump would be sprayed or dabbed with a sponge containing the herbicide. Herbicides would never be used on a landscape scale to remove large expanses of vegetation. Hazardous materials would not be used or stored on site in quantities that could create a foreseeable upset or accident condition that could create a significant hazard to the public or the environment. Impacts would be less than significant. c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed
school?
1 No Impact. The proposed project is not located within 0.25 mile of any existing or proposed schools. The nearest school is Anneliese Schools – Aliso Campus (21542 Wesley Drive, Laguna Beach), approximately 0.3 mile south of FMZ 16. The amount of fuel used by hand equipment and trucks on site would be nominal and would not create a hazardous condition for students or the public. No impacts would occur.
d. Be located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result,
would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment?
18, 19, 20
No Impact. Hazardous materials sites pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 include all hazardous waste facilities subject to corrective action pursuant to Section 25187.5 of the California Health and Safety Code (HSC), all land designated as hazardous waste property or border zone property pursuant to former Article 11 (commencing with Section 25220) of Chapter 6.5 of Division 20 of the HSC, all information received by the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) on hazardous waste disposals on public land pursuant to HSC Section 25242, and all sites listed pursuant to HSC Section 25356.
A review of DTCS’s EnviroStor database and the State Water Resources Control Board GeoTracker database, both of which track cleanup, permitting, enforcement, and investigation efforts at facilities with known hazardous waste or groundwater contamination or sites where there may be reasons to investigate further, yielded no known hazardous materials sites within the project footprint. Several GeoTracker sites were identified near the project site in urbanized areas; however, all have been cleaned up and have a status of “Completed – Case Closed.” No impact would occur. e. For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two
miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area?
21 No Impact. The proposed project is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of an airport. John Wayne Airport is over 11 miles northwest of the project site. No impact would occur. 79 80 of 672
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9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
f. Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan?
22 Less Than Significant Impact. Hand crew vehicles would travel along residential streets and be temporarily staged at various access points throughout FMZs 16 and 19 to allow hand crewsto complete fuel management activities. Access points (Tables 1 and 2) would generally be along residential streets and private roads. Fuel modification activities would generally be conducted behind homes, open space, and public and institutional facilities. Access through private roads and driveways would be coordinated with homeowners. Access along public roadways would be maintained, and no road closures would be required. As such, implementation of the proposed project would not interfere with adopted emergency response plans or emergency evacuation plans, and impacts would be less than significant. g. Expose people or structures, either directly or
indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires?
i, 22
No Impact. The project site lies within a designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone as identified by the City of Laguna Beach.
FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 are within the City of Laguna Beach Local Responsibility Area (LRA). The proposed project would reduce the risk of wildland fires by removing vegetation cover generally within 100 feet of developed structures, thereby reducing fire threats to people and structures. Additional fire safety and prevention measures during fuel management activities would include requiring fire extinguishers and hand tools on site, prohibiting smoking, prohibiting operation of power tools during red flag warnings, and implementing proper fueling locations and practices. This impact would be beneficial, and no adverse impacts would occur.
10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements or otherwise substantially
degrade surface or ground water quality?
1 Less Than Significant Impact. The project area includes several drainage areas that drain to the Pacific Ocean approximately 0.15 to 0.68 mile downstream (see drainage/stream buffers in Figures 2 and 3). Impacts to water quality could occur as a result of disturbing topsoil and reducing vegetation coverage. Increased sediment delivery to these drainages may result in the addition of organic sediments and herbicides (if used).
Both FMZs would be managed by hand crews using chainsaws, brush-cutters, and other hand tools. Hand crews would minimize the potential for fuels and lubricants normally associated with larger mechanized equipment and would minimize the disturbance of soil that could cause displacement of sediment to surface waters. As described in the Project Description, 25-foot buffers would be established on either side of blue-line streams to limit impacts to drainages from erosion and sedimentation. Within these buffers, only non-native plant species would be removed by hand crews in accordance with the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols, and all other native plant species would be left in place. All watercourses recognized by the City and California Coastal Commission as “blue line” would be protected within this buffer, except for hand crew removal of invasive plants and certain case-by-case exceptions such as removal of excessive dead plant matter and rubbish. Additionally, hazardous steep slopes, some of which are nearly vertical in some areas, may require modified treatment or avoidance to prevent disturbing unstable areas that could adversely impact nearby water courses. Native vegetation may be chipped and spread on the ground, which would act as a deterrent to surface erosion. Roots of perennial plants would be left in place to reduce erosion where possible. Mulch and other erosion-control measures such as cut native brush clippings, jute netting, straw wattles, or similar interventions would be installed as necessary for erosion protection as recommended by consulting geologists. Haul paths would be minimized and rehabilitated with mulch or other methods as deemed appropriate by the project biologist. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33 percent or 1:3 grade) would be mulched to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs. All coarse non-native material (e.g., woody debris, pampas grass leaves, giant reed stalks, etc.) live or dead, as well as Ttrash and litter found on the site would be removed.
Herbicide use would be limited to targeted treatment of invasive species as identified by a biologist in consultation with the City and used in a manner to not pose an excessive risk to watercourses. Herbicide application, if used, would be limited to treating specific individual plants or used in combination with hand removal where the cut stump would be sprayed or 80 81 of 672
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10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
dabbed with a sponge containing the herbicide. Herbicides would never be used on a landscape scale to remove large expanses of vegetation. Herbicide use would be subject to the conditions of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit for the San Diego Region of the State Water Resources Control Board. Based on the above considerations, this impact is determined to be less than significant.
b. Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such
that the project may impede sustainable groundwater
management of the basin?
No Impact. The proposed project would not use any groundwater supplies, nor would it increase impervious areas or otherwise interfere with recharge. No impact would occur.
c. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the
course of a stream or river or through the addition of
impervious surfaces, in a manner which would:
(i) result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or offsite; 1, 23
Less Than Significant Impact. There is a potential for increased erosion and siltation into the Pacific Ocean resulting from the removal of vegetative cover. However, the proposed project would be completed by hand crews, which would minimize disturbance of soil that could cause displacement of sediment to surface waters. The treatment area has been evaluated and mapped by a geologist for stability (see Appendix E).
Unstable areas may be avoided if deemed unsafe by field supervisors or staff. All blue-line streams would be given a 25-foot buffer from treatment (except for hand crew removal of invasive plants and case-by-case exceptions as described in (a)).
Native vegetation may be chipped and spread on the ground, which will act as a deterrent to surface erosion. Roots of perennial plants would be left in place to reduce erosion where possible. Mulch and other erosion-control measures, such as scattered cut native brush clippings, jute netting, straw wattles or similar interventions as recommended by consulting geologists, would be installed as necessary for erosion protection. Haul paths would be minimized and rehabilitated with mulch or other methods as deemed appropriate by the project biologist. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33 percent or 1:3 grade) would be mulched to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs. The total area to be treated is approximately 34.47 acres (see Table 3) which represents only a small portion (approximately 0.4 percent) of the overall Laguna Canyon Channel watershed area (approximately 8,136 acres). Therefore, impacts to existing drainage patterns would be less than significant.
(ii) substantially increase the rate or amount of
surface runoff in a manner which would result in
flooding on- or offsite;
1 Less Than Significant Impact. There is a potential for increased runoff into the various drainages within and adjacent to the project area due to reduced vegetation cover. This impact is considered less than significant primarily due to the small size of the area to be treated in comparison to the Laguna Canyon Channel watershed (see (i) above). Increased runoff would be further reduced by chipping and spreading native vegetation on the ground, leaving roots of perennial plants in place, using mulch, scattered cut native brush clippings, and straw wattles for erosion protection, and leaving some vegetative cover in place. Impacts would be less than significant.
(iii) create or contribute runoff water which would
exceed the capacity of existing or planned
stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial
additional sources of polluted runoff; or
1, 23
Less Than Significant Impact. Runoff from the project site would flow into the Pacific Ocean. A small increase in stormwater runoff may result from the proposed project due to reduced vegetation, but this increase would be less than significant as described under (ii) above. The project site makes up approximately 0.4 percent of the overall Laguna Canyon Channel watershed area, and the reduction in vegetative cover would be offset by leaving most perennial plant roots in place and leaving ground cover in the form of mulch to reduce erosion. Therefore, the proposed project would not create runoff water that would exceed the capacity of the stormwater drainage system or create polluted runoff. Impacts would be less than significant.
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10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
(iv) impede or redirect flood flows?
No Impact. The proposed project would remove vegetative cover and would not alter the terrain or install structures that could impede or redirect flood flows. No impact would occur.
d. In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to project inundation?
24 Less Than Significant Impact. Based on the California Emergency Management Agency Tsunami Inundation Map Laguna Beach Quadrangle, the proposed project is not within a tsunami inundation zone. Seiches are wave inundations typically produced within closed bodies of water, such as large lakes. There are no lakes adjacent to the project site and therefore no possibility of a seiche. Except as described under item (a), the proposed project would produce no pollutants that could affect flood waters. As such, flood hazard impacts would be less than significant. e. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water
quality control plan or sustainable groundwater
management plan?
No Impact. The proposed project would have no effect on groundwater, as all work would be completed by hand crews, and has no features that could conflict with or obstruct a water quality control plan. No impact would occur.
11. LAND USE PLANNING. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Physically divide an established community?
No Impact. The proposed project would not result in any structures that would physically divide an established community. The proposed fuel breaks would be located on the outer edges of urban development. No impact is anticipated. b. Cause a significant environmental impact due to a
conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation
adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect?
25, 26, 27,
28, 29, 30,
31, 32
Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project would primarily occur within the planning boundary of the City of Laguna Beach. Project activities would be subject to the policies of the City’s General Plan and Local Coastal Program, the Diamond/ Crestview Specific Plan, the Arch Beach Heights Specific Plan, and the California Coastal Act. The policy consistency memorandum (Appendix G to this Initial Study) identifies the relevant policies from these applicable plans and demonstrates the project’s consistency with these policies. The proposed project would have a less-than-significant impact because it does not conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation.
12. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the
residents of the State?
33 No Impact. According to the California DOC’s Generalized Aggregate Resource Classification Map, FMZs 16 and 19 traverse mineral resources zone (MRZ) 1 and MRZ 3. MRZ 1 is defined as areas where no significant aggregate deposits are present, or where presence is unlikely. MRZ 3 is defined as areas where inadequate information is available to determine the significance of deposit presence. Fuel modification activities would not result in the loss of availability of a known valuable regional or State mineral resource. Therefore, no impact is anticipated. 82 83 of 672
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12. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
b. Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local
general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan?
25, 26, 32
No Impact. No locally important mineral resource recovery sites are delineated in the City of Laguna Beach General Plan or Diamond/Crestview and Arch Beach Heights specific plans. No impact would occur.
13. NOISE. Would the project result in: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent
increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable
standards of other agencies?
34 Less Than Significant Impact. No new development or land uses are proposed that would generate noise levels in excess of established standards. The proposed project, which is limited to construction-type activities and maintenance, would be completed in compliance with the City of Laguna Beach Noise Ordinance (Title 7 Health and Sanitation, Chapter 7.25 Noise, Section 7.25.080 Construction activity noise regulations). Under these regulations, construction noise is allowed between 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday within the City of Laguna Beach. Work completed by hand crews, which would involve the use of mechanical equipment, such as chainsaws and a woodchipper, would be limited to Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and would not occur on federal holidays. Therefore, a less-than-significant impact would occur. b. Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or
groundborne noise levels?
35 Less Than Significant Impact. Equipment used during vegetation clearing activities would be limited to woodchipper, chainsaws, brush-cutters, and hand tools. This equipment would not generate excessive groundborne vibration or noise levels. Chippers used to create mulch, however, could generate groundborne vibrations. Vibrations generated would attenuate quickly at short distances (within 200 feet or less) and would not be at a level to cause building damage. Any vibrations from equipment would be negligible to nearby structures and would result in less-than-significant impacts. c. For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public
airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels?
21 No Impact. The proposed project is not located in the vicinity of a private airstrip or within an airport land use plan. John Wayne Airport is over 11 miles northwest of the project site. No impact would occur.
14. POPULATION AND HOUSING.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new
homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example,
through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
No Impact. The proposed project would not introduce any new development that would directly or indirectly induce substantial unplanned population growth. No impact would occur.
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14. POPULATION AND HOUSING.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
b. Displace substantial numbers of existing people or
housing, necessitating the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere?
No Impact. The proposed project would not create any new development or involve demolition that would displace people or housing. No impact would occur.
15. PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project result in
substantial adverse physical impacts associated with
the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered
governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to
maintain acceptable service ratios, response times,
or other performance objectives for any of the public
services: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Fire protection?
No Impact. The proposed project would not involve any construction activities or require increased fire protection services.
Instead, it would enhance fire safety and reduce wildfire hazards for the public. No new or physically altered fire facilities would be necessary, and no impact would occur.
b. Police protection?
No Impact. The proposed project is not a development project and would not result in any substantial population increase or new structures that require increased police protection. No impact would occur. c. Schools?
No Impact. The proposed project is not a development project and would not create demands for new or expanded school facilities. No impact would occur.
d. Parks?
No Impact. The proposed project is not a development project and would not increase the demand for parks. The proposed project would not affect the park service ratio, and no new or expanded parks would be necessary. No impact would occur. e. Other public facilities?
No Impact. The proposed project is not a development project that would affect other public facilities such as library services or hospitals. The proposed project would not increase the demand for such public services or otherwise affect performance objectives. No impact would occur.
16. RECREATION. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated?
No Impact. The proposed project would neither cause a population increase nor create new developments that would increase the use of existing recreational facilities. Therefore, no physical deterioration of recreational facilities would occur or be accelerated. No impact would occur.
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16. RECREATION. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
b. Include recreational facilities or require the
construction or expansion of recreational facilities,
which might have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
No Impact. The proposed project does not include any recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities. Therefore, no impact would occur.
17. TRANSPORTATION. Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Conflict with a program plan, ordinance or policy
addressing the circulation system, including transit,
roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?
36, 37
Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project would include the use of several vehicles to transport up to an estimated maximum of 16 crew members and equipment. Because there are no major construction activities that would require a substantial number of workers and large equipment, the number of vehicles is expected to be minimal and temporary, and as a result, have nominal impact on local traffic conditions. According to the Caltrans Traffic Volumes report from 2017, approximately 36,800 to 37,750 vehicles travel on the segment of Coast Highway nearest to FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 (Doheny Park Road in Dana Point to Mountain Road in Laguna Beach). The addition of a few vehicles for the proposed project would not add a substantial amount of traffic to existing traffic volumes. The fuel modification activities would not conflict with any of the policies as outlined in the City General Plan’s Transportation, Circulation, and Growth Management Element.
Therefore, there impacts to the City’s circulation policy would be less than significant. b. Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b)?
Less Than Significant Impact. Section 15064.3 of the State CEQA Guidelines describes vehicle miles traveled (VMT) as an appropriate measure of transportation impacts. In this case, VMT is analyzed qualitatively as the proposed project is most similar to a construction project. Up to 16 crew members would be on site at any given time to conduct work and are likely to come from local areas. VMT would be generated by transporting workers, equipment, and green waste. The proposed project would involve a relatively small quantity of vehicles, trips, and total VMT that it would not have a substantial effect on the level of service on Coast Highway and other associated roads. Impacts would be less than significant. c. Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
No Impact. The proposed project would not introduce any new geometric design features to roads or include incompatible uses that would substantially increase road hazards. The proposed project would include compatible uses such as trucks to transport hand crew personnel and small hand-held equipment such as chainsaws, brush-cutters, and other hand tools. No impact would occur.
d. Result in inadequate emergency access?
No Impact. FMZs 16 and 19 would each have multiple access points that would also serve as potential staging areas and provide emergency access if needed. Vehicles used in FMZs 16 and 19 would either be parked along residential roads or private roads that would require coordination with property owners and would not impede on the public’s need for emergency access.
The daily temporary staging areas for the proposed projects would not impede emergency access. Therefore, no impact to emergency access would occur.
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18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public
Resources Code section 21074 as either a site,
feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the
landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is:
(i) Listed or eligible for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources, or in a local
register of historical resources as defined in Public
Resources Code section 5020.1(k), or
Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Assembly Bill (AB) 52 consultation was not completed for this project as no Native American tribes have requested consultation with the City of Laguna Beach for this project area. On September 20, 2023, Aspen requested that the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) conduct a search of its Sacred Lands Files to determine if resources significant to Native Americans have been recorded within the project site. On November 23, 2023, Aspen received a response from the NAHC stating that the search of its Sacred Lands File was positive for the presence of resources within the project site or adjacent vicinity (Appendix D - Confidential). The NAHC also provided its contact list of interested Native Americans to contact for additional information regarding resources in the area. Aspen sent outreach letters on November 21, 2023, to each of the listed representatives asking if any additional information could be provided regarding resources within the project site. One response has been received to date from the Gabrielino Tongva Indians of California, indicating that the area is significant to the Tribe and recommended monitoring. Given the fact that the project area has not been subject to any archaeological investigations and is within a culturally sensitive area, it is possible the project could impact unknown resources that could be considered Tribal Cultural Resources under CEQA. As such, MMs CUL-1 and CUL-2 (provided in Section 5 above) are recommended to reduce impacts to unanticipated discoveries to a less-thansignificant level. (ii) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its
discretion and supported by substantial evidence,
to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in
subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section
5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in
subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section
5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the
significance of the resource to a California Native
American tribe.
No Impact. AB 52 consultation was not completed for this project as no Native American tribes have requested consultation for this area of Laguna Beach. As stated above, the NAHC did indicate the presence of sensitive resources either within the project site or surrounding vicinity. Those tribes contacted through tribal outreach did not indicate the presence of Tribal Cultural Resources in the project site.
19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or storm
water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or
telecommunications facilities, the construction or
relocation of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
No Impact. The proposed project would not include any new development. No utilities or other service systems would be needed.
No impact would occur.
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19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS.
Would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
b. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development
during normal, dry and multiple dry years?
No Impact. The proposed project would not include any development. No water supplies would be needed to serve the project.
No impact would occur.
c. Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it
has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected
demand in addition to the provider’s existing
commitments?
No Impact. The proposed project would neither include any development nor require wastewater treatment. No impact would occur.
d. Generate solid waste in excess of state or local
standards, or in excess of the capacity of local
infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of
solid waste reduction goals?
Less than Significant Impact. The proposed fuel modification activities would only generate green waste and small amounts of trash. The amount of green waste would be minimal compared to the amount of solid waste generated by the general public on a daily basis. Of the total amount of green waste generated, native green waste would be left on site, while the majority of non-native green waste (pampas grass leaves, giant reed stalks, etc.) live or dead, would be hauled to a green waste recycling facility. Any remaining green waste that is not accepted by the green waste recycler would be hauled to a landfill.
All trash and litter found on the project site would be removed and hauled to a landfill. The total amount of solid waste is not expected to be in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant. e. Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid
waste?
No Impact. The proposed project would not generate solid waste other than a small amount of trash, which would be hauled to a landfill, and green waste, which would be converted to mulch and left in place or taken to a green waste recycling facility or landfill. The proposed project would not conflict with federal, state, or local statutes and regulations related to solid waste, and no impact would occur.
20. WILDFIRE. If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
No Impact. The proposed project would not impair the City’s adopted emergency response plan and would instead improve wildfire response. Fuel breaks would create defensible space between wildfires and urban development to reduce the risk of ignition. Therefore, no impacts would occur.
b. Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors,
exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project
occupants to, pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?
No Impact. Removal of fuels in the wildland-urban interface would reduce the risk of ignition and flammability in developed areas. Therefore, project occupants would not be exposed to hazards from exacerbated wildfire risks. No impact would occur.
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20. WILDFIRE. If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project: Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
c. Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency
water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment?
No Impact. The proposed project aims to create and maintain fuel breaks with the intention of reducing fire risk to nearby urban structures. It would not exacerbate fire risks and thus would not require installation or maintenance of infrastructure to reduce those risks. No impact would occur.
d. Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes? 1 Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. Fuel modification activities would remove vegetation cover in landslide-prone areas in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19. However, the proposed project would implement the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols and incorporate erosion control methods such as installing spray adhesives, fiber rolls, and/or jute netting in areas with a thick accumulation of soil on slopes between a 2:1 to 1:1 ratio prior to winter, as recommended by MM GEO-1, thus maintaining stable topsoil and reducing runoff. Additionally, in very steep areas and slopes previously cleared by homeowners, post-treatment erosion control measures such as scattered cut native brush clippings, jute netting, straw wattles, and similar interventions as recommended by the consulting geologists would be implemented to further minimize the potential for landslides. Although some slopes in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 may have a moderate to high potential for debris and/or mudflows from significant fuel modification, spring or early summer fuel modification should not exacerbate the future mudflow potential, as some of the native canopy would re-establish by the rainy season which would maintain soil stability. Mitigation measures for unstable geologic units within FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 are discussed in MM GEO-1.
Flooding, landslides, and post-fire slope instability impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.
21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a. Does the project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory?
Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. Section 4, Biological Resources, discusses the potential impacts to wildlife, plants, and the quality of the environment as well as any required mitigation measures. See MMs BIO-1 through BIO-5. Section 5, Cultural Resources, and Section 18, Tribal Cultural Resources, discuss impacts that would be less than significant to historic and prehistoric California artifacts and remains with mitigation incorporated. See MMs CUL-1, CUL-2, and CUL-3. Impacts to these resources would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. b. Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively
considerable” means that the incremental effects of a
project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.)
Less Than Significant Impact. Impacts that may contribute cumulatively with concurrent or past projects may include air quality, greenhouse gases, noise, and transportation. The proposed project would utilize a minimal number of vehicles and motorized hand equipment that would not substantially contribute to the impacts of other projects. Due to the highly localized, temporary, and brief nature of the proposed project, these impacts are expected to remain less than significant and not result in a cumulatively considerable impact.
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21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE Sources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
With Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
c. Does the project have environmental effects that would cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation Incorporated. As discussed in Section 9, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, gas or diesel would be used to fuel equipment. MM HAZ-1 would mitigate any fuel spillage hazards to avoid potential adverse effects on human beings. Section 7, Geology and Soils, refers to the geotechnical reports’ (Appendix E) findings of areas of potential soil unit instability within FMZ 16 and FMZ 19. Section 20(d) of Wildfire also discusses the potential for post-fire downslope landslides. MM GEO-1 would mitigate mudflow and general soil instability risks mentioned in these two sections.
Implementing these mitigation measures would reduce impacts and potential effects on human beings to a less-thansignificant level.
22. SOURCE REFERENCES
Project Description
i City of Laguna Beach. 2023. Public GIS Map Viewer. [Online]: https://gis.lagunabeachcity.net/Html5 Viewer/index.html? viewer=LagunaBeachPublicGIS. Accessed August 13, 2023.
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts
1 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department. 2018. Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones Subject to Coastal Development Permitting.
2 City of Laguna Beach. 2018. Laguna Beach General Plan (Landscape and Scenic Highways Element).
Accessed October 13, 2023. [Online]: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/ 8156/637502780391970000.
3 DOC (California Department of Conservation). 2022. California Important Farmland Finder. October 11, 2023. [Online]: https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/ciff/. 4 City of Laguna Beach. 2023. Public GIS Map Viewer. October 13, 2023. [Online]:
http://gisweb.lagunabeachcity.net/Html5Viewer/index.html?configBase=http://gisweb.lagunabeachcity.n et/Geocortex/Essentials/REST/sites/GISMap3/viewers/HTML5_22/virtualdirectory/Resources/Config/ Default.
5 SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District). 2022. Air Quality Management Plan. Accessed January 2024. [Online]: https://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/clean-air-plans/air-quality-mgt-plan. 6 SCAQMD. 2023a. SCAQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds. 2023. Accessed January 2024. [Online]:
http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/ceqa/handbook/south-coast-aqmd-air-quality-significancethresholds.pdf?sfvrsn=25. 7 SCAQMD. 2023b. South Coast Air Quality Management District Rules and Regulations. Accessed January 2024. [Online]: http://www.aqmd.gov/home/regulations/rules/scaqmd-rule-book. 8 SCAQMD LST. 2009. Air Quality Analysis Guidance Handbook, Localized Significance Thresholds – Appendix C – Mass rate Look-up Table. Accessed January 2024. [Online]: https://www.aqmd.gov/home/rulescompliance/ceqa/air-quality-analysis-handbook/localized-significance-thresholds. 9 Aspen Environmental Group. 2023. Biological Resources Technical Report for the Proposed Fuel Modification Zones 16 & 19 Projects. Provided as Appendix C to this document. 10 DeOliveira, Lauren, and Emily Smith. 2023. Cultural Resources Assessment Report for the Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project (Confidential). Aspen Environmental Group, Agoura Hills, CA.
Provided as Appendix D (Confidential) to this document. 89 90 of 672
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22. SOURCE REFERENCES
11 CGS (California Geological Survey). 2024. Earthquake Zones of Required Investigation website. Accessed January 2024. [Online]: https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/EQZApp/app/. 12 City of Laguna Beach. 2023. City of Laguna Beach Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. Accessed January 2024. [Online]: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/17422/ 638388384762330000
13 Geofirm. 2017. October 27. Geotechnical Evaluation of Potential Slope Stability Impacts, Proposed Fuel Modification Program Zone 16, Western Nyes Place and Hobo Canyon Area, Laguna Beach, California.
Prepared for City of Laguna Beach Fire Department. Provided as Appendix E to this document. 14 Stoney-Miller Consultants, Inc. 2023. November 28. Revised Geotechnical Evaluation of Potential Slope Stability Impacts, Proposed Fuel Modification Program Zone 19, Diamond Crestview to Arch Beach Heights Area, Laguna Beach, California. Prepared for City of Laguna Beach Fire Department. Provided as Appendix E to this document.
15 Stewart, Joe. 2023. Project Memorandum, Paleontological Resources Summary for the Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modification Project. Aspen Environmental Group, Agoura Hills, CA. Provided as Appendix F to this document.
16 CARB (California Air Resources Board). 2022. Climate Change Scoping Plan. Accessed January 2024. [Online]: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/ab-32-climate-change-scoping-plan. 17 SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments). 2020. Regional Transportation Plan. Accessed January 2024. [Online}: https://scag.ca.gov/read-plan-adopted-final-connect-socal-2020. 18 California Legislative Information. 2022. Government Code Title 7, Planning and Land Use, Division 1, Planning and Zoning, Chapter 4.5 Review and Approval of Development Projects, Article 6 Development Permits for Classes of Projects, Section 65962.5. Accessed November 11, 2023. [Online]: https://leginfo. legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV§ionNum=65962.5. 19 California Department of Toxic Substances Control. EnviroStor. 2023. Accessed October 12, 2023. [Online]:
https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/.
20 State Water Resources Control Board. GeoTracker. 2023. Accessed October 12, 2023. [Online]:
https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/map/?CMD=runreport&myaddress=laguna+beach#. 21 Orange County Airport Land Use Commission. 2008. Land Use Plan for John Wayne Airport. Amended April 17, 2008. Figure 1. Accessed October 12, 2023. [Online]: https://files.ocair.com/media/2021-02/JWA_ AELUP-April-17-2008.pdf?VersionId=cB0byJjdad9OuY5im7Oaj5aWaT1FS.vD. 22 City of Laguna Beach. 2018. City of Laguna Beach Local Hazard Mitigation Plan: FEMA Approved Plan. June.
Accessed October 11, 2023. [Online]: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/ 8494/637762037257700000.
23 Orange County Public Works. 2010. Orange County Flood Control District Drainage System. Accessed October 13, 2023. [Online]: https://ocip.ocpublicworks.com/sites/ocpwocip/files/import/data/files/ 32736.pdf.
24 CEMA (California Emergency Management Agency) 2009. Tsunami Inundation Map for Emergency Planning – Laguna Beach Quadrangle. California Emergency Management Agency, California Geological Survey, University of Southern California. March 15. Accessed October 13, 2023. [Online]: https://www. conservation.ca.gov/cgs/Documents/Publications/Tsunami-Maps/Tsunami_Inundation_LagunaBeach_ Quad_Orange.pdf.
25 City of Laguna Beach. 2022. City of Laguna Beach General Plan, Land Use Element. Amended on April 12, 2022. Accessed November 7, 2023. [Online]: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublished document/8146/638001338428230000
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22. SOURCE REFERENCES
26 City of Laguna Beach. 2005. Laguna Beach General Plan (Open Space/Conservation Element). Amended 2005. Accessed November 7, 2023. [Online]: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublished document/8160/637848346690530000.
27 City of Laguna Beach. 2010. Diamond/Crestview Specific Plan. Accessed November 11, 2023. [Online]:
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/260/637360447937670000. 28 City of Laguna Beach. 2023. Local Coastal Program. Accessed November 7, 2023. [Online]:
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government/departments/community-development/planning-zoning/ land-use-plans/local-coastal-program.
29 California Coastal Commission. 2023. Laws & Regulations, The Coastal Act. Accessed November 7, 2023. [Online]: https://www.coastal.ca.gov/laws/.
30 City of Laguna Beach. 1992a. Resolution No. 92.014: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Laguna Beach Approving and Adopting its Local Coastal Program Pursuant to the California Coastal Act of 1976.
Adopted February 18. Accessed January 26, 2011. [Online]: http://www.lagunabeachcity.net/civicax/ filebank/blobdload.aspx?t=41949.64&BlobID=23490.
31 City of Laguna Beach. 2020. Information Guide for a Coastal Development Permit. Revised December 30.
Accessed November 7, 2023. [Online]: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/ 8872/637824227864570000.
32 City of Laguna Beach. 2023. Arch Beach Heights Specific Plan. Accessed November 7, 2023. [Online]:
https://ecode360.com/42900648?highlight=&searchId=8385970954419183#42900650. 33 DOC. 1981. Generalized Aggregate Resource Classification Map, Orange County – Temescal Valley and Adjacent Production – Consumption Regions. [Online]: https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/information warehouse/index.html?map=mlc.
34 City of Laguna Beach. 2024. Laguna Beach Municipal Code. Title 7 Health and Sanitation, Chapter 7.25 Noise, Section 7.25.080 Construction activity noise regulations. Accessed January 18, 2024. [Online]:
https://ecode360.com/42887312#42887312.
35 Federal Transit Administration. 2018. Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual. September.
Accessed January 18, 2024. [Online]: https://www.transit.dot.gov/sites/fta.dot.gov/files/docs/researchinnovation//transit-noise-and-vibration-impact-assessment-manual-fta-report-no-0123_0.pdf. 36 City of Laguna Beach. 1992. Laguna Beach General Plan, Transportation, Circulation, and Growth Management Element. Accessed November 22, 2023. [Online]: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/ showpublisheddocument/8164/637502783442030000.
37 Caltrans. 2017. 2017 Traffic Volumes: Route 1. Accessed November 22, 2023. [Online]: https://dot.ca.gov/ programs/traffic-operations/census/traffic-volumes/2017/route-1. 91 92 of 672
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40 January 2025
23. MITIGATION MEASURES
For effects that are “Less Than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated,” describe the mitigation measure(s) which were incorporated and the extent to which they address site-specific conditions of the project. The responsible person, Department, Agency, etc., that will be responsible for verification and the event or time of verification should also be specified. The following mitigation measures were identified for the proposed project. A Mitigation Monitoring Program is included in Table 64.
4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
4(a). BIO-1 The City of Laguna Beach (City) shall assign a qualified biologist to the project (i.e., Project Biologist). The qualified biologist shall be responsible for conducting pre-construction surveys (MM BIO-2), implementing nesting bird avoidance (MM BIO-3), monitoring project activities (MM BIO-4), and conducting worker training (MM BIO-5). The "qualified biologist" is defined as a person with appropriate education, training, and experience to conduct the required surveys, monitor project activities, provide worker education programs, and supervise or perform other monitoring-related actions. The Project Biologist shall be authorized by the City to temporarily halt project activities, if needed, to prevent take of listed species or harm to any other special-status species. 4(a). BIO-2 Prior to start of project activities, the Project Biologist shall survey the work area to determine if any specialstatus species are present. During the survey, the Project Biologist shall search for nesting birds, special-status plants, and other special-status species. Pre-clearing surveys shall be performed during the appropriate blooming period for special-status plants to ensure species present are identified. Any special-status species or sensitive resources shall be flagged and avoided, in coordination with the Project Biologist. If big-leaved crownbeard are located within the project site, they shall be flagged, and a 50-foot buffer installed. Plants with a CRPR of 1B or 2B shall be flagged and a 15-foot buffer installed. Any willow canopy that falls outside the 25-foot buffer around “blue-line” drainages (per the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols), shall be avoided. San Diego desert woodrat nests shall be avoided with a 15-foot buffer. No work shall be permitted within these buffers. The Project Biologist shall also flag coast live oak seedlings and western sycamore seedlings for avoidance, as feasible. The Project Biologist shall also search for shot hole borers on all oak and sycamore trees that are proposed for pruning. If shot hole borers are found, the Project Biologist shall notify the City who will then coordinate with CDFW, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. All pruning tools shall be cleaned and disinfected prior to use within the project area and at least weekly during the project to further reduce the spread of pathogens. To the extent practicable, thinning within coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats shall be limited to winter months outside the growing season. 4(a, d). BIO-3 Vegetation removal and initial ground disturbance shall be completed outside the breeding season (i.e., no removal of potential nesting habitat from January 1 through September 1), or after a pre-construction nesting bird survey has been completed. The Project Biologist shall confirm that no birds are nesting in or adjacent to areas to be disturbed. If native birds are nesting on the site, then project activities shall be postponed until nesting is completed or the Project Biologist shall designate appropriate avoidance buffers around nests to protect nesting birds. No project related disturbance shall be allowed within these buffers. 4(a). BIO-4 The Project Biologist shall be present as needed on the project site during vegetation clearing done by hand crews to document compliance with the avoidance and minimization measures and to provide guidance in avoiding or minimizing impacts to biological resources. The Project Biologist shall also conduct quarterly monitoring of the project site for 12 months after the completion of the fuel treatment. During this posttreatment monitoring the Project Biologist shall inspect the mulched plant material for Argentine ants and will also note wildlife use of the treatment areas. If Argentine ants are found within the mulched plant material, the City shall implement an ant control program to remove them from these areas. If any new non-native plants are found within the project area, the City shall implement a control program for these species to ensure they are eradicated and not allowed to spread into adjacent natural lands. 4(a). BIO-5 The Project Biologist shall conduct training to ensure that all workers on the project site are aware of all applicable mitigation measures for biological resources. Specifically, workers shall be required to (1) limit all activities to approved work areas; (2) report any special-status species; (3) report any bird nests; (4) avoid contact with any wildlife that may approach a work area, and be aware of potential venomous reptile bites from carelessness or unnecessary harassment; (5) pick up and properly dispose of any food, trash, or construction refuse; and (6) report any spilled materials (e.g., oil, fuel, solvent, engine coolant, raw concrete, or other material potentially hazardous to wildlife) to the supervisor. During the training, the Project Biologist shall briefly discuss special-status species that may occur in the work areas, their habitats, and requirements to avoid or minimize impacts. In addition, all workers shall be informed of civil and criminal penalties for violations of the federal Endangered Species Act, California Endangered Species Act, and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. 92 93 of 672
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5. CULTURAL RESOURCES and 18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES 5(a, b), 18(a)(i).
CUL-1 A qualified professional archaeologist and local Native American monitor shall be retained to provide monitoring services when crews are working in areas on slopes less than 30 degrees. If any such resources are discovered when the monitor is not present, contractors should stop work in the immediate area of the find and contact the archaeologist to assess the nature of the find and determine if future monitoring is appropriate. If deemed appropriate, monitoring should continue until vegetation removal activities are complete, or until the monitoring archaeologist, based on field observations, is satisfied there is no likelihood of encountering intact archaeological deposits. Upon completion of any monitoring activities, the archaeologist should prepare a report to document the methods and results of monitoring activities. This report should be submitted to the South Central Coastal Information Center.
5(a, b), 18(a)(i).
CUL-2 Prior to the initiation of construction, all construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified archaeologist regarding the recognition of possible buried cultural resources (i.e., prehistoric and/or historical artifacts, objects, or features) and protection of all archaeological resources during construction. Training shall inform all construction personnel of the procedures to be followed upon the discovery of cultural materials. All personnel shall be instructed that unauthorized removal or collection of artifacts is a violation of State law. Any excavation contract (or contracts for other activities that may have subsurface soil impacts) shall include clauses that require construction personnel to attend the Workers’ Environmental Training Program, so they are aware of the potential for inadvertently exposing buried archaeological deposits. 5(c). CUL-3 All human remains discovered are to be treated with respect and dignity. Upon discovery of human remains, all work within 50 feet of the discovery area must cease immediately, nothing is to be disturbed, and the area must be secured. The County Coroner’s Office must be called. The Coroner has two working days to examine the remains after notification. The appropriate land manager/owner of the site (i.e., Orange County Parks) is to be called and informed of the discovery. It is very important that the suspected remains, and the area around them, are undisturbed and the proper authorities called to the scene as soon as possible, as it could be a crime scene.
The Coroner will determine if the remains are archaeological/historic or of modern origin and if there are any criminal or jurisdictional questions.
After the Coroner has determined the remains are archaeological/historic-era, the Coroner will make recommendations concerning the treatment and disposition of the remains to the person responsible for the excavation, or to his or her authorized representative. If the Coroner believes the remains to be those of a Native American, he/she shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) by telephone within 24 hours.
The NAHC will immediately notify the person it believes to be the most likely descendant (MLD) of the remains.
The MLD has 48 hours to make recommendations to the landowner for treatment or disposition of the human remains. If the descendant does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the landowner shall reinter the remains in an area of the property secure from further disturbance. If the landowner does not accept the descendant’s recommendations, the owner or the descendant may request mediation by NAHC.
According to the California Health and Safety Code, six (6) or more human burials at one (1) location constitute a cemetery (Section 8100), and willful disturbance of human remains is a felony (Section 7052).
7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS and 20. WILDFIRE
7(a, c), 20(d).
GEO-1 The City of Laguna Beach shall adhere to the following fuel modification protocols in landslide-prone areas in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19:
• Fuel modification activities shall be conducted in the spring and summer and allow for some re-establishment of the native canopy prior to the next rainy season.
• Fuel modification efforts shall be limited to the canopy and seasonal grasses and should minimize damage to the existing root systems.
• Spray adhesives, fiber rolls, or jute matting shall be used in areas with a thick accumulation of soil on slopes between a 2:1 to 1:1 (horizontal:vertical) ratio prior to winter. 93 94 of 672
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9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
9(a). HAZ-1 The City of Laguna Beach shall include the following provisions or similar in the contractor bid contract for hand clearing:
• All power tools shall be fueled in an area clear of fire hazards. • Fueling of power tools in the fuel modification zones shall occur over a containment system (e.g., plastic tray or tub) to catch and prevent spills.
• Any fuel spills shall be cleaned up immediately and properly disposed. • All trucks and larger equipment, such as chippers, shall be fueled off site. • Engine fuel shall not be used as a cleaning solvent.
94 95 of 672
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Table 6. Mitigation Monitoring Program for Fuel Breaks in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 Environmental
Factor
Reference
Number Mitigation Measures Responsible Party Timing
4. BIOLOGICAL
RESOURCES
4(a) BIO-1 The City of Laguna Beach (City) shall assign a qualified biologist to the project (i.e., Project Biologist). The qualified biologist shall be responsible for conducting pre-construction surveys (MM BIO-2), implementing nesting bird avoidance (MM BIO-3), monitoring project activities (MM BIO-4), and conducting worker training (MM BIO-5). The "qualified biologist" is defined as a person with appropriate education, training, and experience to conduct the required surveys, monitor project activities, provide worker education programs, and supervise or perform other monitoring-related actions. The Project Biologist shall be authorized by the City to temporarily halt project activities, if needed, to prevent take of listed species or harm to any other special-status species.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
Prior to and
during fuel
modification
activities
4(a) BIO-2 Prior to start of project activities, the Project Biologist shall survey the work area to determine if any special-status species are present. During the survey, the Project Biologist shall search for nesting birds, special-status plants, and other special-status species. Preclearing surveys shall be performed during the appropriate blooming period for special-status plants to ensure species present are identified. Any special-status species or sensitive resources shall be flagged and avoided, in coordination with the Project Biologist. If big-leaved crownbeard are located within the project site, they shall be flagged, and a 50-foot buffer installed. Plants with a CRPR of 1B or 2B shall be flagged and a 15-foot buffer installed. Any willow canopy that falls outside the 25-foot buffer around “blue-line” drainages (per the City’s fuel modification treatment protocols), shall be avoided. San Diego desert woodrat nests shall be avoided with a 15-foot buffer. No work shall be permitted within these buffers. The Project Biologist shall also flag coast live oak seedlings and western sycamore seedlings for avoidance, as feasible. The Project Biologist shall also search for shot hole borers on all oak and sycamore trees that are proposed for pruning. If shot hole borers are found, the Project Biologist shall notify the City who will then coordinate with CDFW, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. All pruning tools shall be cleaned and disinfected prior to use within the project area and at least weekly during the project to further reduce the spread of pathogens. To the extent practicable, thinning within coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats shall be limited to winter months outside the growing season.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
Prior to and
during fuel
modification
activities
4(a, d) BIO-3 Vegetation removal and initial ground disturbance shall be completed outside the breeding season (i.e., no removal of potential nesting habitat from January 1 through September 1), or after a pre-construction nesting bird survey has been completed. The Project Biologist shall confirm that no birds are nesting in or adjacent to areas to be disturbed. If native birds are nesting on the site, then project activities shall be postponed until nesting is completed or the Project Biologist shall designate appropriate avoidance buffers around nests to protect nesting birds. No project related disturbance shall be allowed within these buffers.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
Prior to fuel
modification
activities
outside of bird
breeding
season
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Table 6. Mitigation Monitoring Program for Fuel Breaks in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 Environmental
Factor
Reference
Number Mitigation Measures Responsible Party Timing
4(a) BIO-4 The Project Biologist shall be present as needed on the project site during vegetation clearing done by hand crews to document compliance with the avoidance and minimization measures and to provide guidance in avoiding or minimizing impacts to biological resources.
The Project Biologist shall also conduct quarterly monitoring of the project site for 12 -months after the completion of the fuel treatment. During this post-treatment monitoring the Project Biologist shall inspect the mulched plant material for Argentine ants and will also note wildlife use of the treatment areas. If Argentine ants are found within the mulched plant material, the City shall implement an ant control program to remove them from these areas. If any new nonnative plants are found within the project area, the City shall implement a control program for these species to ensure they are eradicated and not allowed to spread into adjacent natural lands.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
During fuel
modification
activities and
continuing for
at least 12
months
following
completion of
activities
4(a) BIO-5 The Project Biologist shall conduct training to ensure that all workers on the project site are aware of all applicable mitigation measures for biological resources. Specifically, workers shall be required to (1) limit all activities to approved work areas; (2) report any special-status species; (3) report any bird nests; (4) avoid contact with any wildlife that may approach a work area, and be aware of potential venomous reptile bites from carelessness or unnecessary harassment; (5) pick up and properly dispose of any food, trash, or construction refuse; and (6) report any spilled materials (e.g., oil, fuel, solvent, engine coolant, raw concrete, or other material potentially hazardous to wildlife) to the supervisor. During the training, the Project Biologist shall briefly discuss special-status species that may occur in the work areas, their habitats, and requirements to avoid or minimize impacts. In addition, all workers shall be informed of civil and criminal penalties for violations of the federal Endangered Species Act, California Endangered Species Act, and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
Prior to fuel
modification
activities
5. CULTURAL
RESOURCES
18. TRIBAL
CULTURAL
RESOURCES
5(a, b)
18(a)(i)
CUL-1 A qualified professional archaeologist and local Native American monitor shall be retained to provide monitoring services when crews are working in areas on slopes less than 30 degrees. If any such resources are discovered when the monitor is not present, contractors should stop work in the immediate area of the find and contact the archaeologist to assess the nature of the find and determine if future monitoring is appropriate. If deemed appropriate, monitoring should continue until vegetation removal activities are complete, or until the monitoring archaeologist, based on field observations, is satisfied there is no likelihood of encountering intact archaeological deposits. Upon completion of any monitoring activities, the archaeologist should prepare a report to document the methods and results of monitoring activities. This report should be submitted to the South Central Coastal Information Center.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
During fuel
modification
activities
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Table 6. Mitigation Monitoring Program for Fuel Breaks in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 Environmental
Factor
Reference
Number Mitigation Measures Responsible Party Timing
5(a, b)
18(a)(i)
CUL-2 Prior to the initiation of construction, all construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified archaeologist regarding the recognition of possible buried cultural resources (i.e., prehistoric and/or historical artifacts, objects, or features) and protection of all archaeological resources during construction. Training shall inform all construction personnel of the procedures to be followed upon the discovery of cultural materials. All personnel shall be instructed that unauthorized removal or collection of artifacts is a violation of State law. Any excavation contract (or contracts for other activities that may have subsurface soil impacts) shall include clauses that require construction personnel to attend the Workers’ Environmental Training Program, so they are aware of the potential for inadvertently exposing buried archaeological deposits.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
Prior to fuel
modification
activities
5(c) CUL-3 All human remains discovered are to be treated with respect and dignity. Upon discovery of human remains, all work within 50 feet of the discovery area must cease immediately, nothing is to be disturbed, and the area must be secured. The County Coroner’s Office must be called.
The Coroner has two working days to examine the remains after notification. The appropriate land manager/owner of the site (i.e., Orange County Parks) is to be called and informed of the discovery. It is very important that the suspected remains, and the area around them, are undisturbed and the proper authorities called to the scene as soon as possible, as it could be a crime scene. The Coroner will determine if the remains are archaeological/historic or of modern origin and if there are any criminal or jurisdictional questions.
After the Coroner has determined the remains are archaeological/historic-era, the Coroner will make recommendations concerning the treatment and disposition of the remains to the person responsible for the excavation, or to his or her authorized representative. If the Coroner believes the remains to be those of a Native American, he/she shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) by telephone within 24 hours.
The NAHC will immediately notify the person it believes to be the most likely descendant (MLD) of the remains. The MLD has 48 hours to make recommendations to the landowner for treatment or disposition of the human remains. If the descendant does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the landowner shall reinter the remains in an area of the property secure from further disturbance. If the landowner does not accept the descendant’s recommendations, the owner or the descendant may request mediation by NAHC.
According to the California Health and Safety Code, six (6) or more human burials at one (1) location constitute a cemetery (Section 8100), and willful disturbance of human remains is a felony (Section 7052).
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
During fuel
modification
activities
97 98 of 672
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Table 6. Mitigation Monitoring Program for Fuel Breaks in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 Environmental
Factor
Reference
Number Mitigation Measures Responsible Party Timing
7. GEOLOGY
AND SOILS
20. WILDFIRE
7(a, c)
20(d)
GEO-1 The City of Laguna Beach shall adhere to the following fuel modification protocols in landslide-prone areas in FMZ 16 and FMZ 19:
• Fuel modification activities shall be conducted in the spring and summer and allow for some re-establishment of the native canopy prior to the next rainy season. • Fuel modification efforts shall be limited to the canopy and seasonal grasses and should minimize damage to the existing root systems.
• Spray adhesives, fiber rolls, or jute matting shall be used in areas with a thick accumulation of soil on slopes between a 2:1 to 1:1 (horizontal:vertical) ratio prior to winter.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
During fuel
modification
activities
9. HAZARDS
AND
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
9(a) HAZ-1 The City of Laguna Beach shall include the following provisions or similar in the contractor bid contract for hand clearing:
• All power tools shall be fueled in an area clear of fire hazards. • Fueling of power tools in the fuel modification zones shall occur over a containment system (e.g., plastic tray or tub) to catch and prevent spills. • Any fuel spills shall be cleaned up immediately and properly disposed. • All trucks and larger equipment, such as chippers, shall be fueled off site. • Engine fuel shall not be used as a cleaning solvent.
City of Laguna
Beach Fire Chief
Prior to fuel
modification
contract
signing
98 99 of 672
Appendix A
Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Development Permitting
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Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 1 of 9
The intent of this protocol is to define City procedures for achieving compliance with the California Coastal Act, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), regulation of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other agencies regarding fuel modification in zones requiring a Coastal Development Permit.
Fuel Modification Zones (FMZ’s) are managed by the City of Laguna Beach under two different approaches;
A. Public Nuisance Abatement sites – Those legacy sites which have a history of long-term grazing disturbance. These sites and their associated management by goat grazing predate the adoption of the Coastal Act and has been judged by the State Attorney General as exempt from the act as a pre-existing condition. This generally refers to sites grazed by goats in FMZs 1-9 and a portion of FMZ 10.
B. Coastal Development Permit sites- Those sites subject to the Coastal Act for which a Coastal Development Permit must be obtained for fuel modification. This treatment protocol guides fuel modification for these sites, which includes all zones currently maintained under Coastal Development Permits and all program expansion sites planned for future development (A portion of FMZ 10, FMZs 11-24, and 27).
Reduction of Fire Behavior Potential
The objective of any fuel modification treatment shall be to achieve at least an average 75% reduction in potential wildfire fire line intensity (energy release), as measured by flame length and rate of spread. In general, a 50% reduction of fuel loading and continuity, accomplished by the parameters of this protocol will achieve such a reduction. (Fuel Modification Impacts to Potential Fire Behavior- A Case Study for the City of Laguna Beach, Rohde, 2017, and Catastrophic Wildfire Assessment- City of Laguna Beach, Franklin, 2013). Fuels reduction shall be managed to accomplish reduction in fuels continuity and disrupt potential wildfire trajectory and intensity.
Treatment Area Determination
Fuel Modification treatments will generally be limited to those areas that are within 100 feet of developed properties or structures. Treatments outside of these areas will be limited to removal of targeted invasives, general non-native weed control, or tree thinning and dead branch removal. Fuel modification outside of the 100-foot zone shall be conducted with intent to minimize impacts to adjacent intact habitats.
Exceptions to the 100-foot clearance may include when topographic conditions may accentuate wildfire behavior such as in steep gullies which may “chimney” or accentuate fire effects towards development.
Other cases may include where islands of native vegetation are retained as buffers for sensitive species within the fuel modification zone and allow fuel continuity to exist that would allow wildfire to transition readily through the zone. In these or similar conditions, the fuel modification width may be extended to 150-feet when required to mitigate expected fire behavior on structures above the site. Disruption of fuel 100
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Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 2 of 9
continuity will be accomplished to limit fire movement within or through the Fuel Modification Zone and reduce crown fire spread.
The primary methods for vegetation management shall consist of grazing or hand crew modification.
Other methods including mechanical mastication, prescribed burning, mass herbicide use, crushing, chaining, or other means of mechanical conversion have been eliminated from consideration for environmental or geological risk, topographic limitations for heavy equipment use, concern for contamination of water courses, lack of ability to manage fire or smoke impacts from prescribed fire, or social/political concerns.
Geotechnical Findings
Proposed FMZs shall be evaluated by a qualified geologist for geologic stability and flood/debris movement potential. Treatment within areas determined to be geologically unstable in the geotechnical report may be modified to reduce impacts, or these areas may be excluded from treatment. Unstable sites may include historic landslide or debris flow areas, unstable soil or rock structure, or similar sites.
Archeological/Paleontological Findings
Proposed FMZs shall be evaluated for archeological and paleontological resources in accordance with CEQA requirements. Such evaluation requires solicitation of tribal interests, survey of data sources for known resources, and site survey. Areas determined to have archaeological and/or paleontological resources present may require treatment to be modified to reduce impacts, or these areas may be excluded from treatment. Treatment determinations shall be made in consultation with a certified archeologist/paleontologist.
Sensitive Species Protection
For all FMZs requiring Coastal Development Permitting, a Qualified Biologist shall inspect proposed fuel modification sites for the presence of sensitive species prior to the initiation of work. If the presence of sensitive species is identified, a biologically trained environmental monitor shall be present at all times while work is conducted in the immediate vicinity of identified habitat to ensure no accidental takings occur, and sensitive species are protected. During all other activities, the Qualified Biologist shall be available as needed to ensure environmental compliance. Crews conducting fuel modification work shall receive instruction and training in sensitive species management and avoidance prior to initiation of work.
Sensitive species include those identified in the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), the Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA), the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Natural Community Conservation Planning Act (NCCPA), California Penal Code Section 384a, or by Federal designation in the Endangered Species Act (F-ESA). Sensitive species shall not be disturbed by fuel modification activities.
Sensitive plant species of principal concern in Laguna Beach include:
1. Big-leaved Crownbeard (Verbesina dissita)
2. Intermediate Mariposa Lilly (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius) 101
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Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 3 of 9
3. Many-Stemmed Dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis)
4. Fish’s Milkwort (Rhinotropis cornuta var. fishae)
5. Cliff Spurge (Euphorbia misera)
6. Catalina Mariposa Lily (Calochortus catalinae)
7. Coulter’s Matillija Poppy (Romneya coulteri)
8. Western Dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis)
9. Laguna Beach Life-forever (Dudleya stolonifera)
Whenever listed sensitive plant species are identified, they will be protected by establishing a flagged, 15- foot buffer around all specimens of the sensitive species, inside of which no material shall be initially removed. Such presence and limits shall be effectively communicated to project contractors. Based upon the species identified, its ecology and phenology, hand removal of non-native vegetation within the 15- foot buffer may be initiated at the direction of the Qualified Biologist, if it is determined to be ecologically beneficial for the identified species. For Big-Leaved Crownbeard (Verbesina dissita), the potential shading/nurse plant benefit of non-native shrubs would be considered before removing non-native shrubs with such a determination to be made by the Qualified Biologist.
Nesting Birds
To avoid impacts to nesting and migratory birds, including the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica), removal of vegetation should occur outside of nesting season (January 1 to August 31 in upland habitats) as much as is practicable. If work is conducted during nesting season, a qualified biologist will conduct a Nesting Bird Survey in the work area within 48 hours of the commencement of work. If any active nests are found, a buffer zone will be flagged around the nesting site(s) in compliance with the Qualified Biologist’s recommendations before work commences. Contractor personnel will be directed to check all vegetation for nests before cutting and to cease work in the area immediately if one is found, until a Qualified Biologist can assess it. If work ceases for more than two days, another nesting bird survey will be required before work can re-commence.
Grazing Treatment Protocols
Goats may be used to implement grazed fuel modification treatment in areas of Low to Moderate Habitat Value as defined in the Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, (Marsh et. al 1983, `see Appendix).
To determine habitat value for this purpose, Laguna Beach City GIS maps based on the above-referenced document will be initially referenced and determined habitat values will only be modified when biological evaluations of current site conditions, conducted by a Qualified Biologist, support a low value habitat determination. Grazing sites will generally be dominated by non-native, herbaceous plant species.
The following mitigation measures will be followed:
a. No more than 75 goats will be permitted per acre.
b. Goats shall remain in secure enclosures at all times. 102
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Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 4 of 9
c. Sensitive plant species shall be protected from trampling or consumption by establishing the secure enclosures a minimum distance of at least 15 feet between sensitive plants and the limits of grazing.
d. Grazing animals shall be moved periodically to ensure enough vegetative cover remains to promote erosion control, inhibit dust, and preserve view aesthetics. e. Up to 80% of the native and 100% of the non-native species in this cover type may be removed in such areas. An average minimum of 4 inches height of intact grass shall be retained onsite as an erosion control measure.
f. Goats shall be used for fuel reduction only and shall be immediately removed when the clearance has been accomplished.
g. A targeted invasive control plan will be implemented in all future goat-grazed areas to prevent invasive species from propagating and impacting adjacent intact habitat. h. Where practicable and environmentally appropriate, goat grazing may be used as the maintenance method for areas which required initial clearance by hand crews.
Hand Crew Treatment Protocols
Hand crews will be used to implement fuel modification in areas of High or Very High Habitat Value as defined in the Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, (Marsh et. al 1983, see Appendix). To determine habitat value for this purpose, Laguna Beach City GIS maps based on the above-referenced document will be initially referenced and modified as necessary based on site visits by a Qualified Biologist to reflect current conditions. In general, hand treated sites may contain herbaceous or woody species.
The initial phase of vegetation removal shall include the following steps:
a. Fuel Modification will be conducted by hand crews with chainsaws, brush-cutters, machetes, loppers and other hand tools.
b. Crews will cut down all non-native vegetation (including unmaintained ornamental vegetation) and dead/dying native vegetation and carefully remove dead branches from trees and large shrubs. As noted above, an exception may be made where non-native shrubs are providing shading/nurse plant benefits for Big-Leaved Crownbeard, as determined by the Qualified Biologist. c. Special care will be exercised to distinguish dormant native vegetation from dead/dying native vegetation.
d. Tree-form shrubs (e.g. Laurel Sumac (Malosma laurina), Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia)) that are over 6 feet tall will be carefully pruned of their lower branches to increase the crown base height to 50% of the plant height. For example, a 10-foottall plant would have its lower branches removed to a height of 5 feet. Branches will be pruned to within 1 inch or less of the branch crown. Southern Maritime Chaparral shrub species shall be left fully intact except as noted below and not pruned unless all other hierarchy opportunities have been exhausted. Pruning methods shall be determined by environmental monitors based upon needs of specific species to maximize probability of survival. 103
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Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Commission Permitting
Rev. 11/20/2024 5 of 9
e. Non-native trees (Pinus, Eucalyptus, Washingtonia, etc.) shall be considered for removal on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration their potential ignitability, potential to spread fire from or across the FMZ, and property/tree ownership.
f. Native large trees (Quercus, Platanus, etc.) shall be pruned of dead components, and lower small branches removed to a height of 8 feet or one half their height, whichever is less, so as to disrupt “fuel ladder” potential. Dead and down tree components on the ground below large trees shall be removed. No more than three trees may be retained in a single grouping or cluster of trees. A minimum distance of 20 feet shall be maintained between mature tree canopies. g. Remaining shrub clusters shall not exceed 400 square feet, except in the presence of sensitive species. Spacing between shrub clusters shall generally be at least 6 feet width.
Other Treatment Methods
Prescribed fire use shall be limited to pile burning only when air quality and fire behavior limitations may be met. Broadcast use of fire will not be utilized due to the presence of heavy, old age class fuels with a high dead-to-live ratio, leading to difficulty of control, air quality concerns, and risks to developed properties of escape.
Fuels clearance by mechanical heavy equipment and related methods such as chaining will generally not be used for landscape-scale treatments within the City due to terrain and slope restrictions on heavy equipment, concerns for geologic slope stability, and the broad presence of high value habitat and sensitive species. Where these concerns may be eliminated, heavy equipment use may be considered.
Mowing is currently authorized for FMZ’s 25 and 26 (Irvine Cove and Emerald Bay) and is performed by the Homeowners Association on those sites
Fuels Removal
Where there is still over 50% vegetative cover after removal of non-native plants and dead or dying material, removal of healthy live perennial vegetation in accordance with the hierarchical list below may occur, beginning with the first species listed, then in descending order through the list until 50% vegetative cover has been attained. The environmental monitor shall provide guidance as necessary in addition to this hierarchy to ensure plant diversity is maintained onsite.
Plant Hierarchy
1. Coastal Goldenbush (Isocoma Menziesii)
2. Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis)
3. California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum)
4. Black Sage (Salvia mellifera)
5. California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica)
6. Monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus)
7. Giant Wildrye (Leymus condensatus)
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8. Laurel Sumac (Malosma laurina),
9. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia),
10. Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia)
Stumps will be cut to within 4” or less of the ground. Thinning of healthy, live vegetation will be done in a dispersed manner to avoid creating large new openings. All healthy specimens of Southern Maritime Chaparral species including Bush Rue (Cneoridium dumosum), Spiny Redberry (Rhamnus crocea) and Bigpod Lilac (Ceanothus megacarpus) will be retained.
Treatment of Water Courses
Pampas Grass (Cortaderia spp.) and other invasive plant removal and herbicide treatment will be the primary vegetation management within a 25-foot buffer on either side of any “blue-line” ephemeral drainages or stream courses (as listed by USGCS map or City Website) that cross the treatment areas. For long drainages which may form a corridor through which fire may be ushered into residences at the head of drainages, additional site-specific steps may be implemented to establish breaks in fuel continuity within these corridors on a site-specific basis consistent with best environmental practice.
Herbicide Treatment
Herbicides may be used only for targeted treatment of invasive plant species when identified as appropriate by the Qualified Biologist. Herbicides shall be specific to the intended use and be used in such a manner as to not pose excessive risk to nearby sensitive species or water courses. Herbicide shall not be used indiscriminately to defoliate large expanses of fuels. Herbicide will be applied to the identified treatment area by directed application methods only (e.g. stump-cut, backpack sprayer). All laws and regulations, pesticide labels, local decisions, established Integrated Pest Management programs, and best management practices will be strictly adhered to.
Erosion Control
The preponderance of roots of perennial plants will be left in place to minimize erosion. Mulch and other erosion control measures (such as sterile, burlap straw wattles and/or jute netting) will be installed as necessary for additional protection without being obtrusive, as recommended in site geotechnical reports.
Haul paths will be minimized and rehabilitated with mulch or other methods as deemed appropriate by the project biologist. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33% or 1:3 grade) will be mulched to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs.
Disposal of Cut Materials
All dead and cut material will be disposed of properly. All non-native material will be removed from the site, placed in a truck or dumpster, and hauled to a green waste recycler. City contractors will generally be conditioned within their contracts to pay all dump fees related to disposal. Native material will be chipped and used as mulch on-site in areas of moderate slope to reduce erosion and weed propagation. 105
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Native material unable to be reused on site will be hauled to a green waste recycler, though efforts will be made to reuse as much native material on site as possible.
Native vegetation under 3 inches in diameter, live or dead, may be processed with hand tools on site and spread in place as mulch as an alternative to hauling and chipping, if it is cut into pieces not exceeding 12 inches, lays flat on the ground, does not cover remaining native plant species and total mulch depth does not exceed 12 inches. All coarse non-native material (e.g., woody debris, Pampas Grass leaves, Giant Reed stalks, etc.), live or dead, must be removed from the site, including any material dumped in the Project Area by residents or others. Fine material treated with herbicide (e.g., non-native grasses and annual weeds) may be left on site.
Periodic Maintenance
Fuel modification zones are subject to multiple treatments each year to maintain prescribed conditions.
The number of annual treatments shall be determined by annual growth, seasonal conditions, and related factors and may be conducted as often as necessary to maintain fire prevention benefits.
Compliance with Policy
Fuel Modification Zones as managed by this protocol are compliant with City of Laguna Beach land use policy found within the General Plan Land Use Element and Open Space Conservation Element, Local Coastal Plan, and fire and building code, except where FMZ development is specifically exempted. City Fuel Modification Zones subject to nuisance abatement declaration are exempt from these processes.
FMZ’s managed by either nuisance abatement of Coastal Act permitting are authorized under the authority of the City’s General Plan Safety Element.
Development of all new Fuel Modification Zones shall be submitted for review under the California Environmental Quality Act and California Coastal Act, as required. Specifically, this protocol ensures compliance with the following City General Plan requirements:
a. Local Coastal Plan 25.41.007-008
b. Land Use Element 5.2, 7.3-4, 7.6, 9.8, 10.6
c. Open Space Conservation Element 4I, 7A, 7G, 7K, 8A, 8C 8N, 8G, 8H, 10C, 10E, 8E Additional Mitigations
Additional site mitigations may be applied when recommended or required by environmental permitting agencies for application to a specific FMZ.
Trash and Litter Found On-site
Litter or rubbish found within Project Areas will be removed and hauled to a landfill.
Site Monitoring and Documentation
An annual monitoring report shall be prepared by the City detailing the following:
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1. Dates and locations of vegetation treatment or modification
2. Treatment methods utilized by site
3. Number of acres managed
4. Photos of treatment sites, pre- and post- treatment
5. Description of any violations or failure to meet conditions of the Coastal Development Permit
HABITAT CLASSIFICATION
The following definitions are utilized in the classification of habitat types within the City of Laguna Beach:
(Excerpt from: Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, Marsh et. al 1983 pp. 35-36) Biological Value Mapping is based on the parameters of habitat integrity and extent, faunal use, and presence of endangered, rare, or locally unique biota. From these, a ranking system was developed of low, medium, high, and very high value habitat. These habitats are classified as follows:
LOW VALUE HABITAT:
Disturbed, impacted sites, often dominated by ruderals, annual plants, and escaped horticulturals. Such areas are usually highly fragmented by or are contiguous to urban development. These sites are biologically simplified and have low faunal carrying capacity. Low value habitats do not possess biological constraints to urban development, but may, if developed, be areas where spillover impact adversely affects contiguous higher value settings.
MODERATE VALUE HABITAT:
These sites may contain either native vegetation of a specific community type, or ornamental species in a setting providing horizontal and vertical structural diversity. The sites are usually, however, limited in area extent, being contiguous to urban development. Thus, their faunal carrying capacity, and often, the native floral species diversity, is lower than “high value” habitats described below.
HIGH VALUE HABITAT:
These are extensive areas dominated by indigenous plant communities which possess good species diversity. They are often, but not always, linked to extensive open space areas, within or outside of the city, by wild fauna traversable open space corridors. Their faunal carrying capacity is good to excellent, many areas are utilized as bedding and foraging sites by mule deer or possess large resident populations of avifauna or native small animals.
VERY-HIGH VALUE HABITAT:
These include the habitats of endangered, rare, or locally unique native plant species (including disjunct and outpost populations). Also included are areas of southern oak Woodland and natural (not irrigation augmented) springs and seeps. Among the very-high value habitats inventoried are areas of significant rock outcrop exposures, because of the assemblages of sensitive plant species which often occupy such setting.
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Appendix B
Air Quality Emissions Estimate
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Lower Hobo and Diamond Crestview Fuel Modifica�on Project Emissions Es�mate
Chainsaws
Number Hours/day VOC NOx CO PM
8 8 53.691275 53.691275 399.70172 1.4914243
EFs Based on CARB emissions standards applicable since 2005 model year.
Assumes 70 cc, 5.5 hp chainsaw
VOC NOx CO PM
g/day 18,899 18,899 140,695 525
lbs/day 41.67 41.67 310.18 1.16
VOC NOx CO PM10 PM2.5
CalEEMod 0.10 0.11 0.96 0.34 0.10
Total 41.77 41.78 311.14 1.49 1.26
EFs (g/bhp)
Emissions
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Appendix C
Biological Resources Technical Report
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March 2024
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
Proposed Fuel Modification Zones 16 & 19 Projects
Prepared for:
Laguna Beach Fire Department
505 Forest Avenue
Laguna Beach, California 92651
Prepared by:
Aspen Environmental Group
615 N. Benson Avenue, Suite E
Upland, CA 91786
March 2024
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Contents
1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 1
2.0 Project and Property Description............................................................................................. 1
2.1 Project Location ............................................................................................................................... 1
2.2 Project Description .......................................................................................................................... 1
3.0 Methods.................................................................................................................................. 4
3.1 Literature Review............................................................................................................................. 4
3.2 Field Surveys .................................................................................................................................... 4
4.0 General Biological Survey Results ............................................................................................ 5
4.1 Vegetation and Cover Types ............................................................................................................ 5
4.2 Sensitive Natural Communities........................................................................................................ 7
4.3 Wildlife Habitat................................................................................................................................ 7
5.0 Special-Status Species Results.................................................................................................. 8
5.1 Special-Status Plants...................................................................................................................... 15
5.2 Special-Status Wildlife ................................................................................................................... 17
5.3 Designated Critical Habitat ............................................................................................................ 20
5.4 Native Birds: Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) / California Fish and Game Code....................... 21
5.5 Wildlife Movement........................................................................................................................ 21
5.6 Jurisdictional Waters...................................................................................................................... 22
5.7 High and Very High Value Habitat ................................................................................................. 22
6.0 Project Related Impacts......................................................................................................... 22
6.1 Thresholds of Significance ............................................................................................................. 22
6.2 Discussion of Impacts in Accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) ...... 23
7.0 Recommended Measures ...................................................................................................... 30
7.1 Treatment Protocol Measures....................................................................................................... 30
8.0. Literature Cited ..................................................................................................................... 31 Tables
Table 1: Vegetation and Other Cover Types on the Project Site................................................................................................... 6 Table 2. Definitions of Special-Status Species.............................................................................................................................................. 8 Table 3. Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Survey Area .................................................................... 10 Table 4. High Value Habitats in the Survey Area..................................................................................................................................... 22 Attachments
Attachment 1: Figures
Figure 1: Project Overview
Figure 2: Project Site
Figure 3: Vegetation and Land Cover
Figure 4: Biological Resources
Attachment 2: CNDDB Query Results
Attachment 3: Special-Status Species Not Addressed
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
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Attachment 4: Project Species List
Attachment 5: Project Photos
Appendices
Appendix A: Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones Subject to Coastal Development Permitting
Appendix B: Coastal California Gnatcatcher Survey Report 114
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1.0 Introduction
This Biological Resources Technical Report (BRTR) was prepared under contract to the City of Laguna Beach to describe biological resources within the proposed Lower Hobo (Fuel Modification Zone [FMZ] 16) and Diamond Crestview (FMZ 19) Fuel Modification Project (Project).
FMZs 16 and 19 are located within the City of Laguna Beach, Orange County, California (Figure 1; Attachment 1). Project activities in FMZs 16 and 19 would include vegetation thinning and removal to create a 100-foot zone of cleared vegetation across roughly 2.5 linear miles to reduce the risk of wildfire for adjacent residences in the area. Removal of heavy vegetation would reduce potential wildfire ignition of residential properties as well as reduce potential for wildfire to spread to high value habitat in wildlands. In addition, the Project would reduce fire line intensity, reduce wildfire rates of spread, and improve occupant safety.
Aspen Environmental Group (Aspen) conducted biological resources surveys in FMZ 16 (approximately
13.5 acres) and FMZ 19 (approximately 25.5 acres) in June 2023. This report summarizes the findings of the biological surveys and potential Project impacts to biological resources, including special-status plant and wildlife species, nesting birds, wildlife movement, and waters.
2.0 Project and Property Description
2.1 Project Location
The Project location is shown in Figure 1 (Attachment 1). It is within the California United States Geological Survey (USGS) Laguna Beach 7.5-minute Quadrangle (Quad), near the border with the San Juan Capistrano USGS Quad to the east. The elevation of the survey area ranges from approximately 150 to 630 feet elevation above mean sea level.
FMZ 16 consists of approximately 13.5 acres located northeast of Pacific Coast Highway (Hwy 1) between Nyes Place to the west, and Laguna Terrace North and K Street to the east, behind residential and community properties (Figure 2a; Attachment 1). FMZ 19 consists of approximately 25.5 acres located northeast of Hwy 1, bounded by Diamond Street to the west, Summit Drive to the north, and La Mirada Street and Alta Vista Way to the east, adjacent to residential properties (Figure 2b; Attachment 1).
2.2 Project Description
In FMZ 16 and FMZ 19, fuel management would be achieved by crews using a variety of power and nonpower hand tools. Vehicle staging would be on existing paved roads, dirt roads, and other unvegetated areas. Several mitigation measures (MMs) are proposed in this BRTR (Section 6.0) to further reduce potential impacts to the FMZs. Implementation of these MMs would reduce potential effects to the biological resources.
Fuel Modification Implementation. The City’s Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones Subject to Coastal Development Permitting (i.e., Treatment Protocols; Appendix A) has been developed based on the best available science and studies. The proposed FMZs have been designed using the City’s Treatment Protocols. Fuel modification activities in FMZs 16 and 19 would reduce fuel loads up to 50 percent, prioritizing the removal of non-native species and dead or dying plants first; if reduction of vegetation to 50 percent or less of remaining cover is achieved by removing invasive vegetation, vegetation clearing would stop. If further thinning or removal needs to occur, crews would follow the hierarchical list in the 115
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City’s Treatment Protocols (listed below under “Hand Crew Treatment Protocols”) to remove the least sensitive plants first. In erosion-prone areas, perennial plant roots would remain to reduce the risk of erosion.
Management within FMZs 16 and 19 would consist of hand removal. If any special-status plants or animals are found, a trained biological monitor would flag such areas before treatment to ensure the species are protected and avoided. Within these flagged buffers, 50 percent removal may not be feasible. Vegetation removal by hand crews would be completed using hand clearing tools such as chainsaws, loppers, and other hand tools. As part of City contracts with contractors, project equipment would be required to have spark arrest features, noise-reduction intake and exhaust mufflers, and engine shrouds, as appropriate for each piece of equipment. Additionally, idling of large trucks and chainsaws would be limited to five minutes consistent with the requirements of the California Air Resources Board and State law.
Erosion control and prevention measures would be implemented concurrently with vegetation removal activities in steeper areas prone to instability. Erosion control measures may include strategic placement of cut native vegetative material and the installation of straw wattles and bales as prescribed by the FMZspecific geotechnical study which will be completed prior to vegetation removal. Prudent herbicide use may be used only in cases of targeted treatment of invasive vegetation removal as determined by a biologist. Any necessary treatments outside of this range would be subject to removal of only targeted non-native, invasive weeds, or tree thinning and dead branch removal.
Hand Crew Treatment Protocols. Per the City’s Treatment Protocols, hand crews would be used to implement fuel modification in areas of High Value or Very High Value Habitat as defined in the Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory. To determine habitat value for this purpose, Laguna Beach City GIS maps based on the above-referenced document would be initially referenced and modified as necessary based on site visits by a qualified biologist to reflect current conditions. In general, hand treated sites would be dominated by woody herbaceous or shrub species.
The initial phase of vegetation removal shall include the following steps:
a. Fuel Modification will be conducted by hand crews with chainsaws, brush-cutters, and other hand tools.
b. Hand crew fuel modification shall be the preferred method for fuel modification in high or very high value habitat and shall generally be limited to a width of 100 feet from primary flammable structures.
c. Crews will cut down all non-native vegetation (including unmaintained ornamental vegetation) and dead/dying native vegetation and carefully remove dead branches from trees and large shrubs. An exception may be made where non-native shrubs are providing shading/nurse plant benefits for big-Leaved crownbeard (Verbesina dissita), as determined by the biological monitor. d. Special care will be exercised to distinguish dormant native vegetation from dead/dying native vegetation.
e. Tree-form shrubs (e.g., Laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia)) that are over 6 feet tall will be carefully pruned of their lower branches to increase the Crown Base Height to 50 percent of the plant height. For example, a 10- foot-tall plant would have its lower branches removed to a height of 5 feet. Branches will be pruned to within 1 inch or less of the branch crown. Southern Maritime Chaparral shrub species shall be left fully intact except as noted below, and not pruned unless all other hierarchy 116
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opportunities have been exhausted. Pruning methods shall be determined by environmental monitors based upon needs of specific species to maximize probability of survival. f. For large tree species within FMZ’s, non-native trees (Pinus, Eucalyptus, Washingtonia, et. al.) shall be considered for removal on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration their potential ignitability, potential to spread fire from or across the FMZ, and property/tree ownership.
Native large trees (Quercus, Platanus, et. al.) shall be pruned of dead components, and lower small branches removed to a height of 8 feet or one half their height, whichever is less, so as to disrupt “fuel ladder” potential. Dead and down tree components on the ground below large trees shall be removed. In areas where vegetative cover is still over 50 percent after the above material has been removed, the contractor will remove healthy live vegetation in accordance with the hierarchical list below, beginning with the first species listed, then in descending order through the list until 50 percent vegetative cover has been attained:
1. Coastal goldenbush (Isocoma menziezii)
2. Coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis)
3. California buckwheat (Erigonum fasciculatum)
4. Black sage (Salivia mellifera)
5. California sagebrush (Artemisia californica)
6. Monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus)
7. Laurel sumac (Malosma laurina)
8. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)
9. Lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia)
Stumps will be cut to within 4 inches or less of the ground. Thinning of healthy, live vegetation would be done in a dispersed manner to avoid creating new large openings. All healthy specimens of Southern Maritime Chaparral species including Bush Rue (Cneoridium dumosum), Spiny Redberry (Rhamnus crocea) and Bigpod Lilac (Ceanothus megacarpus) would be retained.
Herbicide Use. Herbicides may be used for targeted treatment of invasive species when identified by the site biologist. Herbicides shall be specific to the intended use and be used is such a manner as to not pose excessive risk to nearby sensitive species or water courses. Herbicides shall not be used on a landscape scale to defoliate large expanses of fuels.
Erosion Control. The majority of roots of perennial plants would be left in place to minimize erosion.
Mulch and other erosion control measures (such as scattered brush clippings, straw wattles, straw bales, and/or jute netting) would be installed as necessary for additional protection without being obtrusive, as recommended per site-specific geotechnical reports. Haul paths would be minimized and rehabilitated with mulch or other methods as deemed appropriate by the project biologist. Areas of relatively low slope (i.e., below 33 percent or 1:3 grade) would be mulched to an adequate depth to minimize weed propagation and ongoing maintenance needs.
Disposal of Cut Materials. All dead and cut material would be disposed of properly. All non-native material would be removed from the site, placed in a truck or dumpster, and hauled to a green waste recycler.
Green waste that is not accepted by the green waste recycler would be hauled to a landfill. City contractors would generally be conditioned within their contracts to pay all dump fees related to disposal. 117
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Native material would be chipped and used as mulch on-site in areas of moderate slope to reduce erosion and weed propagation. Native material unable to be reused on site would be hauled to a green waste recycler, though efforts would be made to reuse as much native material on site as possible.
Native vegetation under 3 inches in diameter, living or dead, may be processed with hand tools on site and spread in place as mulch, as an alternative to hauling and chipping, if it is cut into pieces not exceeding 12 inches, lays flat on the ground, does not cover remaining native plant species and total mulch depth does not exceed 12 inches. All coarse non-native material (e.g., woody debris, Pampas Grass leaves), living or dead, would be removed from the site, including any material dumped on the Project sites by residents or others.
3.0 Methods
3.1 Literature Review
Prior to conducting field surveys, Aspen biologists reviewed available literature to identify special-status biological resources known from the vicinity of the survey area. The literature and databases listed below were reviewed.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) for the survey area (USFWS, 2023b).
California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (CDFW, 2023a) for the following 7.5-minute USGS topographic quads: Dana Point, El Toro, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, San Juan Capistrano, and Tustin.
California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Electronic Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (CNPS, 2023), for the same topographic quads.
The CNDDB results are listed in Attachment 2. Several special-status species identified during the literature review only occur in specialized native habitats that are absent from the survey area or occur at higher or lower elevations. These plants and animals are listed in Attachment 3 but are not addressed further in this report.
3.2 Field Surveys
Aspen biologists Justin Wood, Kala Barron, and Shaun Kehrmeyer completed field surveys of the survey area on May 24, June 5, and June 27, 2023. During the site visits, the biologists conducted 100 percent coverage biological surveys of the survey area where safely accessible. In steep inaccessible terrain, the biologists used binoculars to scan the terrain for biological resources. During the field surveys, all plant and wildlife species observed were recorded in field notes and sensitive species locations were recorded using hand-held GPS units. All plant and wildlife species observed during the surveys are listed in Attachment 4. Representative site photos were captured during the survey and are included in Attachment 5.
The botanical surveys were conducted in conformance with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) guidelines (CDFW, 2018). The surveys were (a) conducted during flowering seasons for the special status plants known from the area, (b) floristic in nature, (c) consistent with conservation ethics, (d) systematically covered all habitat types on the sites, and (e) well documented by this report and by voucher specimens to be deposited at California Botanic Garden (formerly Rancho Santa Ana Botanic 118
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Garden) and other herbaria. Plants of uncertain identity were collected and identified later using keys, descriptions, and illustrations in Baldwin et al. (2012).
Vegetation mapping was done by drawing tentative boundaries onto high-resolution aerial images during a site visit on May 24, 2023. These boundaries were then digitized into Geographic Information System (GIS) shapefiles. Vegetation maps were field verified for accuracy on June 27, 2023, and again on August 31, 2023 (see Attachment 1; Figure 3: Vegetation and Land Cover). Vegetation within the survey area is further described below using the names and descriptions in A Manual of California Vegetation (Sawyer et al., 2009). Vegetation was mapped digitally using ArcGIS (version 10.7) and one-foot pixel aerial imagery. The smallest mapping unit was approximately 0.05 acre, and most mapped vegetation boundaries are accurate to within approximately 5 feet. Any vegetation map is subject to imprecision for several reasons:
1. Vegetation types tend to intergrade on the landscape so that there are no true boundaries in the vegetation itself. In these cases, a mapped boundary represents best professional judgment.
2. Vegetation types as they are named and described tend to intergrade; that is, a given stand of real-world vegetation may not fit into any named type in the classification scheme used. Thus, a mapped and labeled polygon is given the best name available in the classification, but this name does not imply that the vegetation unambiguously matches its mapped name.
3. Vegetation tends to be patchy. Small patches of one named type are often included within mapped polygons of another type. The size of these patches varies, depending on the minimum mapping units and scale of available aerial imagery.
During the survey, the biologists also assessed the presence of significant stream courses within the survey area. These stream courses, if any, were mapped for avoidance during Project implementation.
In addition to the biological surveys described above, Aspen biologist Jason Berkley completed protocollevel breeding season surveys for coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) within the survey area. Mr. Berkley conducted these surveys according to the USFWS protocol, which requires a total of six surveys to be conducted during the breeding season (USFWS, 1997). Mr. Berkley conducted these surveys on April 12, 26, May 3, 1, 18, and 25, 2023. Additional details on the methods used can be found in the Coastal California Gnatcatcher Survey Report (Appendix B to this report). Results from these surveys have been incorporated into this report.
Rainfall: Rainfall is greatest during the months of November through March, with an average annual precipitation total of 13.55 inches (U.S. Climate Data, 2023). Rainfall for the 2021 to 2022 year was less than 50 percent of average with approximately 6.2 inches falling in the region (Orange County Public Works, 2023).
4.0 General Biological Survey Results
4.1 Vegetation and Cover Types
Vegetation within the survey area consists primarily of lemonade berry scrub, holly leaf cherry – toyongreenbark ceanothus chaparral, and ornamental/developed areas. Other vegetation types are shown in Table 1 and described below.
Chaparral vegetation within the survey area is dominated by lemonade berry and toyon. Coastal sage scrub vegetation within the survey area is dominated by California sagebrush and black sage. The 119
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vegetation and cover types within the survey area are described in detail below, and acreages are presented in Table 1 and shown in Figure 3 (Attachment 1).
Bigpod ceanothus chaparral (Ceanothus megacarpus Shrubland Alliance). Bigpod ceanothus chaparral is dominated by bigpod ceanothus (Ceanothus megacarpus) which grows on several of the north-facing slopes FMZ 16. Bigpod ceanothus chaparral forms nearly monotypic stands with some occasional shrubs and perennial herbs such as Laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), California brittlebush (Encelia californica), and big-leaved crownbeard (Verbesina dissita).
Bigpod ceanothus chaparral has a State Rank of S4 and is therefore not recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW (CDFW, 2023).
California sagebrush scrub – black sage scrub (Artemisia californica – Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance). California sagebrush - black sage scrub is a type of coastal sage scrub that is dominated by California sagebrush. Within the survey area, black sage (Salvia mellifera) is nearly absent as this vegetation dominates an engineered slope that appears to have been restored in the past. In addition to California sagebrush, sweetclover (Melilotus sp.), Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus), and coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis) are also present. California sagebrush scrub – black sage scrub is located in the central portion of FMZ 19 on a restored slope. California sagebrush - black sage scrub has a State Rank of S4 and is therefore not recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW (CDFW, 2023).
Holly leaf cherry - toyon - greenbark ceanothus chaparral (Prunus ilicifolia - Heteromeles arbutifolia - Ceanothus spinosus Shrubland Alliance). Holly leaf cherry - toyon - greenbark ceanothus chaparral is dominated by toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) with other shrub and trees species such as coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), scrub oak (Quercus berberidifolia), holly leaf redberry (Rhamnus ilicifolia), heart leaved keckiella (Keckiella cordifolia), blue elderberry (Sambucus nigra), and sticky monkeyflower (Diplacus aurantiacus) also present. Several non-native species are comprised of a variety of species such as Victorian box (Pittosporum undulatum), ngaio tree (Myoporum laetum), and garden nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus). Holly leaf cherry - toyon - greenbark ceanothus chaparral is present on many of the more mesic north-facing slopes throughout the survey area. Holly leaf cherry - toyon - greenbark ceanothus chaparral has a State Rank of S4 and is therefore not recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW (CDFW, 2023d).
Table 1. Vegetation and Other Cover Types on the Survey Area (Acres) Area (Acres)
Native Vegetation Type FMZ 16 FMZ 19 Survey Area
Bigpod ceanothus chaparral 0.53 0 0.53
California sagebrush - black sage scrub 0 1.83 1.83
Holly leaf cherry - toyon - greenbark ceanothus chaparral 0.77 3.69 4.46 Lemonade berry scrub 9.23 15.38 24.61
Other Cover Types
Fountain grass swards 0.38 0 0.38
Ornamental vegetation and development 2.75 4.53 7.28
Total 13.66 25.43 36.37
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Lemonade berry Scrub (Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance). Lemonade berry scrub is dominated by lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia). Lemonade berry shrubs grow in low stature with many coastal sage scrub species such as California sagebrush, black sage, California buckwheat, Spiny redberry (Rhamnus crocea), deerweed, and occasional larger shrubs such as toyon, laurel sumac, and blue elderberry.
Lemonade berry scrub has a State Rank of S3 and is therefore recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW (CDFW, 2023d). FMZ 16 and FMZ 19 are dominated by lemonade berry scrub.
Fountain grass swards (Pennisetum setaceum - Pennisetum ciliare Herbaceous Semi-Natural Alliance).
Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum) is a non-native invasive grass in California. It is cultivated as an ornamental species and frequently escapes into natural lands. Within the survey area, fountain grass swards dominate one south-facing slope on the western edge of Hobo Canyon within FMZ 16. It appears to be spreading further into the surrounding wildlands. Fountain grass swards are not ranked because they are a non-native plant community, therefore they are not recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW (CDFW, 2023d).
Ornamental vegetation and development. This cover type includes landscaped areas and residential developments within the survey area. Ornamental vegetation is comprised of a variety species such as Victorian box, ngaio tree, coastal wattle (Acacia cyclops), bank catclaw (Acacia redolens), athel (Tamarix aphylla), American century plant (Agave americana), glossy privet (Ligustrum lucidum), pride of madeira (Echium candicans), and garden nasturtium. It should also be noted that several Coulter's matilija poppy (Romneya coulteri) are also present in these landscaped areas, as discussed in Section 5.1. In addition to the ornamental vegetation, this cover type also includes paved roads, unpaved roads, residential areas, and other unvegetated areas. The ornamental vegetation and development cover type is not ranked because it is a non-native plant community, therefore it is not recognized as a sensitive natural community by CDFW (CDFW, 2023d).
4.2 Sensitive Natural Communities
Sensitive vegetation communities are defined by CDFW (2018) as, “...communities that are of limited distribution statewide or within a county or region and are often vulnerable to environmental effects of projects.” The literature review identified eight sensitive vegetation communities recorded near the survey area. These included southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern coastal salt marsh, southern cottonwood willow riparian forest, southern dune scrub, southern foredunes, southern riparian scrub, southern sycamore alder riparian woodland, and valley needlegrass grassland (CDFW, 2023a). None of these sensitive natural communities are present in the survey area. Lemonade berry scrub is the only sensitive natural community present, as described above in Section 4.1.
4.3 Wildlife Habitat
The term habitat refers to the environment and ecological conditions where a species is found. Wildlife habitat is often described in terms of vegetation, though a more thorough explanation includes detail such as availability or proximity to water, suitable nesting or denning sites, shade, foraging perches, cover sites to escape from predators, soils that are suitable for burrowing or hiding, proximity of noise and disturbance, and other factors that are unique to each species. For many wildlife species, vegetation reflects important components of habitat, including regional climate, physical structure, and biological productivity and food resources. Thus, the vegetation descriptions in Section 4.1 are useful overarching descriptors for wildlife habitat.
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Wildlife and wildlife signs observed during the field surveys included species common in the region, such as western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis), Bewick's wren (Thryomanes bewickii), turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), and California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi). One special-status wildlife species, Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii), was observed during the surveys and are discussed below in Section 5.0.
5.0 Special-Status Species Results
Based on review of the literature and databases listed above, and on local expertise with the flora and fauna of the survey area, lists of special-status plants and wildlife with potential to occur on the survey area or in the project vicinity were compiled (see Table 2). Plant and wildlife taxa were treated as special-status species if they were classified in one or more of the categories listed in Table 2.
Table 2. Definitions of Special-Status Species
Species Designation Agency Definition
Federal Endangered USFWS A species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
Federal Threatened USFWS A species that is likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
Federal Candidate USFWS A species the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has designated as a candidate for listing under Section 4 of the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), published in its annual candidate review, and defined as a species that has sufficient information on its biological status and threats to propose it as endangered or threatened under the ESA, but for which development of a proposed listing regulation is precluded by other higher priority listing activities.
Federal Proposed USFWS A species that the USFWS has proposed for listing under Section 4 of the ESA, by publishing a Proposed Rule in the Federal Register.
Protected under the federal
Bald and Golden Eagle
Protection Act (BGEPA)
USFWS Bald and golden eagles are protected from take, including harassment, except as permitted by USFWS.
State Endangered CDFW A species that is in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all or a significant portion of its range due to one or more causes, including loss or change in habitat, overexploitation, predation, competition, or disease.
State Threatened CDFW A species that, although not presently threatened with extinction, is likely to become an endangered species in the foreseeable future in the absence of special protection and management efforts.
State Candidate CDFW A species that has been officially noticed by the California Fish and Game Commission as being under review by the CDFW for addition to the threatened or endangered species lists. CDFW candidate species are given no extra-legal protection under state laws.
Fully Protected CDFW Animal species fully protected under the California Fish and Game Code. The CDFW may not issue take authorization except for scientific purposes or as provided under SB 618 (2011).
Species of Special Concern CDFW A species, subspecies, or distinct population of an animal native to California that currently satisfies one or more of the following (not necessarily mutually exclusive) criteria:
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Table 2. Definitions of Special-Status Species
Species Designation Agency Definition
Is extirpated from the state or, in the case of birds, in its primary seasonal or breeding role.
Is on the federal, but not state list, of threatened or endangered species.
Meets the state definition of threatened or endangered but has not formally been listed.
Is experiencing or formerly experienced serious (noncyclical) population declines or range retractions (not reversed) that, if continued or resumed, could qualify it for state threatened or endangered status; or Has naturally small populations exhibiting high susceptibility to risk from any factor(s) that if realized, could lead to declines that would qualify it for state threatened or endangered status.
This is an administrative designation and carries no formal legal status. This designation is intended to focus attention on animals at conservation risk, to stimulate research on poorly known species, and to achieve conservation and recovery before these species meet the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) criteria for listing. California Species of Special Concern are considered under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and require a discussion of impacts and appropriate mitigation to reduce impacts.
Watch List CDFW Taxa that were previously Species of Special Concern, but no longer merit that status or which do not meet criteria for designation as Species of Special Concern, but for which there is concern and a need for additional information to clarify status.
Special Animal CDFW An animal species that is tracked in the CNDDB but has no other status at the state or federal level.
California Rare Plant Rank
(CRPR) 1A
CDFW Plants presumed to be extinct in California.
CRPR 1B CDFW Plants rare or endangered in California and elsewhere.
CRPR 2A CDFW Plants presumed extinct in California but more common elsewhere.
CRPR 2B CDFW Plants rare or endangered in California but more common elsewhere.
CRPR 3 CDFW Plants about which more information is needed – a review list.
CRPR 4 CDFW Plants of limited distribution – a watch list.
Plants or wildlife may be ranked as special-status species due to declining populations, vulnerability to habitat change, or restricted distributions. Certain species have been listed as threatened or endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) or California Endangered Species Act (CESA). Others have not been listed, but declining populations or habitat availability cause concern for their long-term viability. These species of conservation concern appear on lists compiled by resource agencies or private conservation organizations. In this report, “special-status species” includes all plants and wildlife listed as threatened or endangered or included in these other compilations. All special-status plants and wildlife occurring in the region in habitats similar to those found in the survey area are addressed in Table 3, with brief descriptions of habitat and distribution, conservation status, and probability of occurrence on the site.
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Table 3. Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Survey Area Species Name Habitat Requirements
Flowering
or Activity
Season
Conservation
Status Potential to Occur
PLANTS
Aphanisma blitoides
Aphanisma
Coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, coastal
dune scrub; sea level to about 1,000 ft.
elev.; San Diego Co. north to Santa
Barbara Co.
Feb-Jun Fed: None
CA: S2, 1B.2
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Atriplex coulteri
Coulter’s saltbush
Perennial herb occurring on ocean bluffs,
ridgetops as well as alkaline low places.
Coast bluff scrub, coastal dunes, coastal
scrub, valley, and foothill grassland.
Mar-Oct Fed: None
CA: S1S2, 1B.2
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Atriplex pacifica
South coast saltscale
Annual herb occurring on ocean bluffs,
dunes, coastal scrub, and playas; sea
level to about 450 ft. elev.; San Diego Co.
north to Santa Barbara Co.
Mar-Oct Fed: None
CA: S2, 1B.2
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Calochortus catalinae
Catalina mariposa lily
Perennial herb (bulb); chaparral,
woodlands, coastal sage scrub, and
grasslands with heavy soils; 50-2,300 ft.
elev., Riverside Co. north to Santa
Barbara Co.
Feb-Jun Fed: None
CA: S3S4, 4.2
Moderate;
marginally suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Calochortus weedii var.
intermedius
Intermediate mariposa-lily
Occurs on dry, rocky slopes of coastal
scrub, chaparral and valley and foothill
grasslands; 350-2,800 ft. elev.; Los
Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San
Bernardino Cos.
May-Jul Fed: None
CA: S3, 1B.2
Present; numerous
plants observed
within the survey
area.
Camissoniopsis lewisii
Lewis' evening-primrose
Sandy or clay soils in coastal bluff scrub,
cismontane woodland, coastal dunes,
coastal scrub, and valley and foothill
grassland: sea level to about 1,000 ft.
elev.; Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside,
San Bernardino, and San Diego Cos.
Mar-May Fed: None
CA: S4, 3
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Cistanthe maritima
Seaside cistanthe
Sandy soils in coastal bluff scrub, coastal
scrub, and valley and foothill grassland.
50-1,000 ft. elev.; Los Angeles, Orange,
and San Diego Cos.
Mar-Jun Fed: None
CA: S3, 4.2
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Comarostaphylis
diversifolia ssp. diversifolia
Summer holly
Chaparral and cismontane
woodlands.100-2,590 ft. elev.; Orange
and San Diego Cos.
Apr-Jun Fed: None
CA: S2, 1B.2
High; previously
reported from FMZ
19, unable to
relocate during
focused surveys.
Deinandra paniculata
Paniculate tarplant
Usually in vernally mesic, sometimes
sandy soils in coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland, and vernal pools. 80-
3,100 ft. elev.; Los Angeles, Orange,
Riverside, San Bernardino, and San
Diego Cos.
Apr-Nov Fed: None
CA: S4, 4.2
Moderate; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Dichondra occidentalis
Western dichondra
Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak
woodland. Often in dry sandy banks in
scrub or under trees. 150-1,700 ft elev.;
Mar-Jul Fed: None
CA: S3S4, 4.2
Moderate; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
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Table 3. Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Survey Area Species Name Habitat Requirements
Flowering
or Activity
Season
Conservation
Status Potential to Occur
Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego
Cos.
Dudleya blochmaniae ssp.
blochmaniae
Blochman's dudleya
Associated with coastal scrub, coastal
bluff scrub, chaparral, valley and foothill
grasslands. Open, rocky slopes; often is
shallow clays over serpentine areas
Apr-Jun Fed: none
CA: S2, 1B.1
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Dudleya multicaulis
Many-stemmed dudleya
Occurs in coastal plains, chaparral often
in clay soils and sandstone outcrops; 50-
2,600 ft. elev.; Los Angeles and San
Bernardino Cos. south to San Diego Co.
Apr-Jul Fed: None
CA: S2, 1B.2
High; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Dudleya stolonifera
Laguna Beach dudleya
Rock faces within chaparral, cismontane
woodland, coastal sage scrub, valley, and
foothill grassland. Occurring on rocky
outcrops. 35-855 ft elev. Orange County.
May-Jul Fed: THR
CA: THR, S1,
1B.1
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Euphorbia misera
Cliff spurge
Coastal bluff scrub and coastal sage
scrub. Occurring on rocky soils.35-1640 ft
elev. Orange and San Diego Cos.
Dec-Aug Fed: None
CA: S2, 2B.2
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Horkelia cuneata var.
puberula
Mesa horkelia
Dry, sandy, coastal chaparral, and
cismontane woodland; 200-2,700 ft. elev.;
San Luis Obispo Co. south to San Diego
Co.
Feb-Jul Fed: None
CA: S1, 1B.1
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Isocoma menziesii var.
decumbens
Decumbent goldenbush
Utilizes coastal sage scrub habitat
intermixed with grassland and is more
partial to clay soils than other closely
related varieties; 35-445 ft. elev.; Los
Angeles, Orange, and San Diego Cos.
Apr-Nov Fed: None
CA: S2, 1B.2
Present; northern
portion FMZ 19.
Juglans californica
Southern California black
walnut
Small tree; chaparral, woodlands, coastal
scrub, and riparian woodlands; 165-3000
ft. elev.; San Diego Co. north throughout
much of coastal California.
Mar-Aug Fed: none
CA: S4, 4.2
High; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Lepidium virginicum var.
robinsonii
Robinson’s pepper grass
Chaparral and coastal sage scrub; sea
level to about 2,900 ft. elev.; Los Angeles
and San Bernardino Cos. south to San
Diego Co.
Jan-Jul Fed: None
CA: S3, 4.3
Moderate; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Lycium californicum
California box-thorn
Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub; 15-490
ft. elev.; Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside,
San Bernardino, and San Diego Cos.
Mar-Aug Fed: None
CA: S4, 4.2
Low; marginally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Malacothrix saxatilis var.
saxatilis
Cliff malacothrix
Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub. 10-655
ft. elev.; Santa Barbara Co. south to
Orange Co.
Mar-Sep Fed: None
CA: S4, 4.2
Low; minimally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Phacelia ramosissima var.
austrolitoralis
Sandy, sometimes rocky soils in
chaparral, coastal dunes, coastal scrub,
and marshes and swamps (coastal salt);
Mar-Aug Fed: None
CA: S3, 3.2
Low; marginally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
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Table 3. Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Survey Area Species Name Habitat Requirements
Flowering
or Activity
Season
Conservation
Status Potential to Occur
South coast branching
phacelia
15-985 ft. elev.; Santa Barbara Co. south
to San Diego Co.
Polygala cornuta var.
fishiae
Fish’s Milkwort
Mesic chaparral and coastal sage scrub,
dry drainage courses; 180-5,800 ft. elev.;
Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego
Cos.
May-Aug Fed: None
CA: S4, 4.3
Present; one patch
of plants observed in
southern portion
FMZ 19.
Quercus dumosa
Nuttall's scrub oak
Closed-cone coniferous forest, chaparral,
and coastal sage scrub. Occurring on
sandy, clay loam soils; sea level to about
650 ft. elev.; Santa Barbara Co. south to
San Diego Co.
Feb-Mar Fed: None
CA: S3, 1B.1
Moderate; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Romneya coulteri
Coulter's matilija poppy
Chaparral and coastal scrub, often in
burned areas, 65-4000 ft. elev.; San
Diego Co. north throughout much of
coastal Southern California.
Mar-Jul Fed: None
CA: S4, 4.2
Present; several
planted individuals
observed in FMZ 16.
Senecio aphanactis
Chaparral ragwort
Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal
scrub. Sometimes associated with
alkaline soils; 50-2,625 ft. elev.; Santa
Barbara Co. south to San Diego Co.
Jan-Apr Fed: None
CA: S2, 2B.2
Low; marginally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Suaeda taxifolia
Woolly seablite
Coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes,
marshes, and swamps (margins of coastal
salt); sea level to about 165 ft. elev.; San
Luis Obispo Co., south to San Diego Co.
Jan-Dec Fed: None
CA: S4, 4.2
Low; marginally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Verbesina dissita
Big-leaved crownbeard
Southern maritime chaparral, coastal
sage scrub; 150-675 ft. elev.; Los Angeles
and Orange Cos.
Apr-Jul Fed: THR
CA: THR, S1,
1B.1
Present; throughout
FMZ 16.
INVERTEBRATES
Bombus crotchii
Crotch bumble bee
Colonial insect; open grassland and
scrub; underground colonies, often in old
rodent burrows. Many food plants
including Chaenactis, Lupinus, Phacelia,
Salvia, and Eriogonum. Much of southern
and central CA, SW Nevada, and Baja.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: CAN
(END), S2
Moderate; suitable
habitat and food
plants present.
Danaus plexippus pop. 1
Monarch – California
overwintering population
Closed-cone coniferous forest habitat;
roosts located in wind-protected tree
groves (eucalyptus, Monterey pine,
cypress), with nectar and water sources
nearby.
Year-round Fed: CAN
CA: S2
Low (roosting);
High (foraging);
suitable foraging
habitat present,
limited roosting
habitat present.
REPTILES
Anniella stebbinsi
Southern California legless
lizard
Occurs in a variety of habitats, chaparral,
coastal scrub generally in moist, loose
soil.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S3, CSC
Low; marginally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
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Table 3. Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Survey Area Species Name Habitat Requirements
Flowering
or Activity
Season
Conservation
Status Potential to Occur
Arizona elegans
occidentalis
California glossy snake
Generalist occurring in a range of scrub
and grassland habitats, often with loose or
sandy soils.
Feb-Nov Fed: None
CA: S2, CSC
Low; marginally
suitable habitat is
present in survey
area.
Aspidoscelis hyperythra
Orange-throated whiptail
Prefers washes and other sandy areas
with patches of brush and rocks.
Perennial plants necessary for its major
food source; termites.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S2S3, WL
High; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Aspidoscelis tigris
stejnegeri
Coastal whiptail
Occurs in deserts and semi-arid areas
with sparse vegetation in firm soil, sandy,
or rocky soils.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S3, CSC
High; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Crotalus ruber
Red-diamond rattlesnake
Prefers coastal sage scrub, rocky
hillsides, and lower woodlands.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S3, CSC
High; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Phrynosoma blainvillii
Coast horned lizard
Forest, shrubland or grassland; sandy
soils; W Calif. From LA Co S through N
Baja Calif., below about 6000 ft. elev.
Temp
dependent
Fed: None
CA: S4, CSC
High; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Salvadora hexalepis
virgultea
Coast patch-nosed snake
Burrows in loose soil in semi-arid bushy
areas and chaparral in canyon, rocky
hillsides, and plains.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S3, CSC
Low; marginally
suitable habitat is
present, not known
from within 10 miles.
BIRDS
Accipiter cooperii
Cooper’s hawk
Woodland, chiefly of open, interrupted, or
marginal type; nest sites mainly in riparian
growths of deciduous trees.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S4, WL
Present; suitable
foraging and nesting
habitat throughout.
Aimophila ruficeps
canescens
Southern California rufouscrowned sparrow
Arid and steep rocky areas chaparral and
coastal sage scrub including low grasses
and shrubs.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S3, WL
High; suitable
habitat is present in
survey area.
Ammodramus savannarum
Grasshopper sparrow
Favors native grasslands with a mix of
grasses, forbs, and scattered shrubs.
Loosely colonial when nesting.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S3, CSC
Low; minimally
suitable habitat
present.
Aquila chrysaetos
Golden eagle
Forages in open grasslands, desert scrub
and agricultural fields. Nests on ledges on
cliff faces, rock outcrops and occasionally
in large trees.
Year-round Fed: BGEPA
CA: S3, FP
Minimal (nesting);
no suitable nesting
habitat. Moderate
(foraging only);
suitable habitat
present.
Athene cunicularia
Burrowing owl
Nests mainly in rodent burrows, usually in
open grassland or shrubland; forages in
open habitat; increasingly uncommon in S
Calif.; through W US and Mexico.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S3, CSC
Minimal (nesting);
no nesting habitat.
Low (foraging only);
limited suitable
foraging and
wintering habitat.
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Table 3. Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Survey Area Species Name Habitat Requirements
Flowering
or Activity
Season
Conservation
Status Potential to Occur
Buteo regalis
Ferruginous hawk
Open grasslands, sagebrush flats, desert
scrub, low foothills and fringes of pinyon
and juniper habitats.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S3S4, WL
Minimal (nesting);
Low (foraging only);
not within nesting
range, suitable
foraging habitat
present.
Buteo swainsoni
Swainson’s hawk
Grasslands with scattered trees, junipersage flats, riparian areas, and agricultural lands.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: THR, S3
Minimal (nesting);
Low (foraging only);
not within nesting
range, suitable
foraging habitat.
Campylorhynchus
brunneicapillus
sandiegensis
Coastal cactus wren
Coastal sage scrub requires tall opuntia
cactus for nesting and roosting.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S2, CSC
Moderate;
marginally suitable
habitat is present
within the survey
area.
Elanus leucurus
White-tailed kite
Typically nests at lower elevations in
riparian trees, including oaks, willows, and
cottonwoods, forages over open country.
Throughout much of cismontane
California.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S3S4, FP
Minimal (nesting);
High (foraging only);
suitable foraging
habitat present,
known from within
0.5 miles.
Eremophila alpestris actia
California horned lark
Open, flat lands incl. sparse sagebrush or
grassland, meadows, alkali flats; wide
elev. range; breeds in western Calif (San
Diego Co through Humboldt Co) and Baja
Calif; winters in same range.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S4, WL
Moderate (seasonal
foraging); Low
(nesting); Marginally
suitable nesting
habitat.
Falco peregrinus anatum
American peregrine falcon
Near wetlands, lakes, rivers, or other
water; on cliffs, banks, dunes, and
human-made structures.
Year-round Fed: DEL
CA: DEL,
S3S4, FP
Low (nesting); High
(foraging only);
suitable nesting
habitat present.
Polioptila californica
californica
Coastal California
gnatcatcher
Permanent resident of coastal sage scrub
in arid washes, on mesas and slopes.
Year-round Fed: THR
CA: S2, CSC
Moderate; suitable
habitat is present.
Not detected in
protocol-level
surveys.
MAMMALS
Choeronycteris mexicana
Mexican long-tongued bat
Pinyon and juniper woodlands, riparian
scrub. Roosts in relatively well-lit caves
and in and around buildings.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S1, CSC
Minimal (roosting);
Low (foraging);
roosting habitat is
not present,
marginally suitable
habitat is present.
Eumops perotis
californicus
Western mastiff bat
Lowlands (rare exceptions); cent. and S
Calif., S Ariz., NM, SW Tex., N Mexico;
roost in deep rock crevices, forage over
wide area.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S3S4, CSC
Minimal (roosting);
roosting habitat is
absent.
Low (foraging);
marginally suitable
habitat is present.
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Table 3. Special-Status Species with Potential to Occur in the Survey Area Species Name Habitat Requirements
Flowering
or Activity
Season
Conservation
Status Potential to Occur
Lasiurus cinereus
Hoary bat
Prefers deciduous and coniferous
woodlands; primarily roosts in tree foliage.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S4
Low (roosting);
High (foraging).
Suitable foraging
habitat is present;
suitable roosting
habitat is limited.
Myotis yumanensis
Yuma myotis
Distribution tied to water bodies, optimal
habitats are open forests and woodlands.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S4
Low (roosting);
Moderate (foraging).
Suitable foraging
habitat is present;
suitable roosting
habitat is limited.
Neotoma lepida intermedia
San Diego desert woodrat
Arid shrublands, esp. around rocky
outcrops & crevices; cismontane Calif
from San Luis Obispo to San Diego Co,
and NW Baja Calif.
Year-round Fed: None
CA: S3S4, CSC
High; suitable
habitat is present.
Nyctinomops macrotis
Big free-tailed bat
Arid lowlands throughout S. Calif., roosts
on high cliffs in rocky outcrops. Forages in
a variety of habitats and feeds on months.
Spring –
Summer
Fed: None
CA: S3, CSC
Minimal (roosting);
roosting habitat is
absent.
Low (foraging);
marginally suitable
habitat is present.
General references (botany): Baldwin et al., 2012; CDFW, 2023a; CDFW, 2023b; CNPS, 2023; and CCH, 2023. General references (wildlife):
American Ornithologists’ Union, 1998 (including supplements through 2013); Barbour and Davis, 1969; CDFW, 2023a; CDFW, 2023c; eBird.org, 2023; Feldhamer et al., 2003; Garrett and Dunn, 1981; Hall, 1981; iNaturalist.org, 2023; Jennings and Hayes, 1994; Stebbins, 2003; Wilson and Ruff, 1999; and Zeiner et al., 1990.
Conservation Status
Federal designations (Fed): (federal ESA, USFWS).
END: Federally listed, endangered.
THR: Federally listed, threatened.
CAN: Sufficient data are available to support federal listing, but not yet listed.
Proposed: Formally proposed for the federal status shown.
BGEPA: Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
DEL: Delisted
State designations (CA): (CESA, CDFW)
END: State listed, endangered.
THR: State listed, threatened.
CAND: Sufficient data are available to support federal listing, but not yet listed.
RARE: State listed as rare (applied only to certain plants).
CSC: California Species of Special Concern. Considered vulnerable to extinction due to declining numbers, limited geographic ranges, or ongoing threats.
WL: Species that were either previously listed as SC and have not been state listed under CESA; or were previously state or federally listed and now are on neither list; or are on the list of “Fully Protected” species.
FP: Fully protected. May not be taken or possessed without permit from CDFW.
CDFW Natural Diversity Data Base Designations: Applied to special-status plants and sensitive plant communities; where correct category is uncertain, CDFW uses two categories or question marks.
S1: Fewer than 6 occurrences or fewer than 1,000 individuals or less than 2,000 acres.
S1.1: Very threatened
S1.2: Threatened
S1.3: No current threats known
S2: 6-20 occurrences or 1,000-3,000 individuals or 2,000-10,000 acres (decimal suffixes same as above).
S3: 21-100 occurrences or 3,000-10,000 individuals or 10,000-50,000 acres (decimal suffixes same as above).
S4: Apparently secure in California; this rank is clearly lower than S3 but factors exist to cause some concern, i.e., there is some threat or somewhat narrow habitat. No threat rank.
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S5: Demonstrably secure or ineradicable in California. No threat rank.
SH: All California occurrences historical (i.e., no records in > 20 years).
SX: Presumed extirpated in California.
California Rare Plant Rank designations. Note: According to the California Native Plant Society (http://www.cnps.org/cnps/rareplants/ranking.php), plants ranked as CRPR 1A, 1B, and 2 meet definitions as threatened or endangered and are eligible for state listing. That interpretation of the state Endangered Species Act is not in general use. 1A: Plants presumed extinct in California.
1B: Plants rare and endangered in California and throughout their range. 2A: Plants presumed extinct in California but more common elsewhere in their range. 2B: Plants rare, threatened or endangered in California but more common elsewhere in their range. 3: Plants about which we need more information; a review list. 4: Plants of limited distribution; a watch list.
California Rare Plant Rank Threat designation extensions:
.1 Seriously endangered in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat) .2 Fairly endangered in California (20-80% occurrences threatened) .3 Not very endangered in California (<20% of occurrences threatened or no current threats known) Definitions of occurrence probability: Estimated occurrence probabilities are based on literature sources cited earlier, field surveys, and habitat analyses reported here.
Present:Observed on the site by qualified biologists.
High: Habitat is a type often utilized by the species and the site is within the known range of the species.
Moderate: Site is within the known range of the species and habitat on the site is a type occasionally used.
Low: Site is within the species’ known range but habitat is rarely used, or the species was not found during focused surveys covering less than 100% of potential habitat or completed in marginal seasons.
Minimal: No suitable habitat on the site; or well outside the species’ known elevational or geographic ranges; or a focused study covering 100% of all suitable habitat, completed during the appropriate season and during a year of appropriate rainfall, did not detect the species.
5.1 Special-Status Plants
5.1.1 Listed Threatened or Endangered Plants
This section describes plant species reported from the region that are listed as threatened or endangered under the federal ESA or CESA and are present or have a potential to be present on the survey area.
Several listed plant species were identified during the literature review but none of these species were observed during the biological surveys.
Big-leaved crownbeard (Verbesina dissita). Big-leaved crownbeard is a federal and state threatened species with a CRPR of 1B.1 (CDFW, 2023a). It is a perennial herb native to California found in shrubby coastal slopes at lower elevations. CNDDB occurrences overlap with the Project area in FMZ 16. Big-leaved crownbeard was observed during surveys in FMZ 16, in the western portion of the survey area along Nyes Place and in the eastern portion along K Street (see Figure 4; Attachment 1).
5.1.2 Other Special-Status Plants
In addition to the federal and state endangered species regulations noted above, CDFW and CNPS maintain lists of plants of conservation concern. The CDFW compiles these species including CDFW and CNPS rankings as CRPR 1, 2, 3, or 4 in its compendium of “Special Plants” (CDFW, 2023b). These plants are treated here as “special-status species.” Two CRPR 1B species and two CRPR 4 species were observed in the survey area. Several other CRPR ranked species have at least a moderate potential to be present and are discussed below.
Intermediate mariposa lily (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius). Intermediate mariposa lily has a CRPR of 1B.2 (CDFW, 2023b). It is a perennial bulbiferous herb that occurs in rocky areas in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and valley and foothill grassland. It is native to California and is found in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. The nearest CNDDB occurrences are adjacent to FMZ 16, between Nyes Place and K Street and to the south and east in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 130
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Intermediate mariposa lily was observed during surveys in both FMZs 16 and 19 (see Figure 4; Attachment 1).
Decumbent goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii var. decumbens). Decumbent goldenbush has a CRPR of 1B.2 (CDFW, 2023a). It is a perennial shrub that is native to California and occurs in sandy soils in chaparral, coastal sage scrub on the landward side of dunes and arroyos primarily in Southern California coastal areas. The nearest CNDDB occurrence is less than 0.5 mile south of FMZ 16. Decumbent goldenbush was observed in FMZ 19, in the northern portion of the survey area near Summit Drive (see Figure 4; Attachment 1).
Many stemmed dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis). Many stemmed dudleya has a CRPR of 1B.2 (CDFW, 2023a). It is an ephemeral perennial that grows on heavy soils and rocky outcrops in coastal sage scrub. It is known from approximately 154 occurrences that stretch from Ventura and Los Angeles Counties south to San Diego County (CDFW, 2022a). Many stemmed dudleya was not observed within the survey area, but suitable habitat is present. The nearest occurrence is less than 1 mile north of FMZ 19 and there is a high potential for this species to be present (CDFW, 2023a).
Summer holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia ssp. diversifolia). Summer holly has a CRPR of 1B.2 (CDFW, 2023a). It is a large shrub that grows in chaparral and cismontane woodlands. It is known from approximately 112 extant occurrences in Orange and San Diego Counties (CDFW, 2023a). Summer holly was not observed within the survey area but is known from a previous record within FMZ 19 (CDFW, 2023a). There is a possibility that summer holly was overlooked because of the steep terrain and dense vegetation within this portion of the survey area. Aside from this occurrence, the nearest extant occurrence is approximately 0.25 miles east of FMZ 19 (CDFW, 2023a).
Nuttall’s scrub oak (Quercus dumosa). Nuttall’s scrub oat is a perennial evergreen shrub with a CRPR of 1B.1 (CDFW, 2023a). It is generally found in sandy soils near the coast within chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. It is known throughout most of the California coastal areas. Although this species was not observed at the survey area, known occurrences are found just over 1 mile to the east of the survey area and there is a moderate potential for this species to occur.
California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) 4 Species. Two CRPR 4 species (i.e., a “watch list,” not indicating rarity), Fish’s milkwort (Polygala cornuta var. fishiae) and Coulter’s matilija poppy (Romneya coulteri), were found during the biological surveys within the survey area. One patch of Fish’s milkwort was observed in FMZ 19, in the southern portion of the survey area. Several patches of Coulter’s matilija poppy were observed in FMZ 16, adjacent to residential development, and were likely planted. In addition, Southern California black walnut (Juglans californica), was not observed but has a high potential to be present, while paniculate tarplant (Deinandra paniculata), western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis), and Robinson’s pepper grass (Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii) have a moderate potential to occur.
5.2 Special-Status Wildlife
5.2.1 Listed Threatened or Endangered Wildlife
This section includes species listed as threatened or endangered under CESA or FESA which were detected or have at least a moderate potential to be present on the survey area. No listed wildlife species were observed on the survey area during the surveys, but three species have a potential to be present and are discussed below. No designated critical habitat for federally listed wildlife species is present within the survey area.
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Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica). Coastal California gnatcatcher is listed as threatened under the FESA (CDFW, 2023a). Its geographic range is primarily coastal Southern California from Ventura County, inland to the Santa Clarita area, Banning area, and southward through northwestern Baja California. Its habitat is coastal sage scrub largely composed of California sagebrush, California buckwheat, and other low-growing, drought-deciduous shrubs. There is suitable habitat for Coastal California gnatcatcher within the survey area, but none were detected during protocol-level surveys conducted in 2023 (see Appendix B to this report). CNDDB occurrences overlap with the Project in FMZ 16.
Crotch bumble bee (Bombus crotchii). Crotch bumble bee is a Candidate for listing under CESA. Crotch bumble bee is a widespread secretive species that is known from more than two hundred locations over a broad geographic range (CDFW, 2023a). It is typically found in openings in grassland and scrub habitats where it burrows into the ground and lives in colonies. It feeds on native plants including milkweed, pincushion, lupine, phacelia, sage, snapdragon, clarkia, bush poppy, and buckwheat. Many of these food plants are present on the survey area and suitable burrowing habitat is also present. Crotch bumblebee has a moderate potential to be present on the site and is known from numerous observations in the region, including a recent observation within 2 miles of FMZ 16 (iNaturalist, 2023).
Monarch (Danaus plexippus pop. 1). Overwintering populations of monarch in California are a candidate for federal listing under the ESA. The listing would only protect these overwintering sites and not individual butterflies or their food plants. Monarch and their food plants are widespread in California and although milkweed was not seen on the survey area, monarchs have a high potential to be present. Winter roost sites extend along the coast from northern Mendocino to Baja California, Mexico and roosts are generally located in wind-protected tree groves. No monarch butterflies were observed during the surveys but there is a high potential for butterflies to forage within the survey area. No overwintering roost sites are known from within the survey area and there is a low potential for roosting.
5.2.2 Species Protected Under the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. §§ 668-668d; BGEPA) prohibits take of bald eagles and golden eagles. The BGEPA defines take to include “pursuing, shooting, shooting at, poisoning, wounding, killing, capturing, trapping, collecting, molesting, and disturbing.” The USFWS (2007) further defines disturb as “to agitate or bother a bald or golden eagle to a degree that causes, or is likely to cause, based on the best scientific information available, (1) injury to an eagle, (2) a decrease in its productivity, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior, or (3) nest abandonment, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior.” Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). Golden eagles are year-round residents throughout most of their range in the western United States. In the southwest, they are more common during winter when eagles that nest in Canada migrate south into the region. They breed from late January through August in California (Pagel et al., 2010). Golden eagles are wide-ranging predators, especially outside of the nesting season, when they do not need to return to tend eggs or young at their nests. Golden eagle foraging habitat consists of open terrain such as grasslands, deserts, savanna, and early successional forest and shrubland habitats throughout the regional foothills, mountains, and deserts. They prey primarily on rabbits and rodents but will also take other mammals, birds, reptiles, and carrion (Kochert et al., 2002). Suitable nesting habitat is absent from the survey area. Golden eagles were not observed during the survey but have been reported in the vicinity of the survey area and have a moderate potential to forage. 132
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5.2.3 Wildlife Species Fully Protected Under the California Fish and Game Code Under the state Fish and Game Code, selected fish and wildlife species are designated as fully protected, prohibiting take except under permit for scientific purposes. Most designated fully protected species occur well outside the Project vicinity, but several may be found in the survey area. These include golden eagle (discussed above, species protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act), American peregrine falcon, and white-tailed kite as discussed below. It should also be noted that a recently proposed trailer bill is making its way through the state legislation that would reclassify fully protected species and do away with the current regulation in Fish and Game Code. Of the 37 species currently protected as fully protected species in California, 15 will be listed as threatened under the CESA, 19 will be listed as endangered under CESA, and three will have no listing status and would retain the protections afforded to species generally under the Fish and Game Code.
American Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum). Peregrine falcons were formerly listed under CESA and ESA but have been delisted under both acts. They are fully protected under the state Fish and Game Code. They are found regularly in the coastal region of Southern California. They feed primarily on birds captured during flight. Waterfowl and shorebirds make up a large proportion of their prey, and nest sites are often within foraging range of large water bodies. American peregrine falcon was not observed during the recent surveys but are known from numerous records in the region (eBird.org, 2023).
White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus). White-tailed kites are not formerly listed under CESA and ESA but are fully protected under the state Fish and Game Code. They are found regularly in rolling foothills, valleys, riparian river bottoms, and woodlands. They feed primarily on small mammals and are permanent residents in Southern California. White-tailed kites were not observed during the survey, but there is suitable foraging habitat in portions of the survey area. White-tailed kite was not observed during the recent surveys but are known from numerous records in the region (eBird.org, 2023).
5.2.4 California Wildlife Species of Special Concern
Coastal whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri). Coastal whiptail are found in coastal Southern California, mostly west of the Peninsular Ranges and south of the Transverse Ranges. Their range extends north into Ventura County and south to Baja California. The coastal whiptail occurs in a variety of habitats including various upland and riparian habitats. It is most commonly associated with areas of dense vegetation but is also found around sandy areas along gravelly arroyos or washes (Stebbins, 2003). Coastal whiptail were not observed within the survey area but have a high potential to be present throughout the survey area.
Red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber). Red-diamond rattlesnake live between sea level and about 5,000 feet elevation throughout most of Orange County and western Riverside County, south through San Diego and Baja California, and inland to the Colorado Desert margins. Their habitats include coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and woodlands through most of their geographic range, and desert scrub at the eastern margins of their range. There are numerous records of red diamond rattlesnakes from the Santa Ana Mountains to the east of the survey area. The nearest known occurrence is about 2 miles to the east of FMZ 16. Red diamond rattlesnake has not been reported on the survey area, but habitat throughout the site appears suitable and there is a high potential to be present.
Coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii). Coast horned lizard are found throughout much of coastal Southern California, inland as far as the southern Mojave Desert and to about 6,000 ft elevation in the mountains. Coast horned lizards occur in sandy soils in a variety of shrubland, grassland, and woodland habitat types. They have been extirpated from much of their historic range by land use changes, but they 133
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remain fairly common in natural open space areas where their primary prey (native ants) is found. Coast horned lizard were not observed within the survey area but have a high potential to be present on the survey area.
Coastal cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus sandiegensis). Coastal cactus wrens are found in coastal Southern California, from Orange and Riverside Counties south into San Diego County and Baja California. Coastal cactus wrens occur in coastal sage scrub habitat, primarily in areas with patches of cactus (Opuntia sps.). Coastal cactus wrens were not observed within the survey area but are known from within less than 1 mile of FMZ 16 (eBird.org, 2023). There is a moderate potential for cactus wren to be present within the survey area.
San Diego desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia). San Diego desert woodrat is known from coastal and desert scrub and rocky outcrops throughout much of Southern California (CDFW, 2022). It frequently builds large middens (piles of sticks and debris arranged to form a shelter) in rock outcrops or around the bases of shrubs. In some portions of its range, it builds middens primarily at the bases of cactus (Opuntia sps.) and yucca (Yucca sps.) plants (Feldhamer et al., 2003). This species was not observed but the habitat is suitable, and it has a high potential to occur in the survey area.
Bats. Five special-status bat species have at least a low potential to forage over the survey area: Western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis californicus), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis), Mexican long-tongued bat (Choeronycteris Mexicana), and big free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops macrotis).
Most of these bats forage in open areas over grasslands, agricultural areas, shrublands, and open water.
They generally roost in rock crevices, mines, caves, and occasionally buildings and foliage of trees. These species are unlikely to roost in the survey area because of a lack of suitable roosting habitat.
5.2.5 Other Special-Status Wildlife Species
Orange-throated whiptail (Aspidoscelis hyperythra). Orange-throated whiptail are found in coastal Southern California, mostly from Riverside and Orange Counties south into San Diego County and Baja California. The orange-throated whiptail occurs in a variety of habitats including woodlands, coastal sage scrub, and chaparral. It is often found in sandy areas with patches of brush and rocks (CDFW, 2023a).
Orange-throated whiptail were not observed during recent surveys but are known from within approximately 1 mile of FMZ 16 and have a high potential to be present (iNaturalist, 2023).
Other Special-status Birds. Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) is the only special-status animals observed in the survey area (see Figure 4; Attachment 1). Cooper’s hawk is a “Watch List” wildlife bird species but has no formal protection. Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) is also a “Watch List” wildlife bird species and has a high potential to be present. Neither of these species are afforded specific protection under either state or federal regulations.
5.3 Designated Critical Habitat
The literature review conducted prior to conducting field surveys determined that the survey area is not within federally designated critical habitat for any species. The nearest designated critical habitat to the Project area is for tidewater goby and coastal California gnatcatcher, approximately 0.5 mile to the southeast along Aliso Creek (USFWS, 2023a). Critical habitat for thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea filifolia) is located approximately 2 miles to the east (USFWS, 2023a). 134
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5.4 Native Birds: Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) / California Fish and Game Code
The federal MBTA prohibits take of any migratory bird, including eggs or active nests, except as permitted by regulation (e.g., licensed hunting of waterfowl or upland game species). Under the MBTA, “migratory bird” is broadly defined as “any species or family of birds that live, reproduce or migrate within or across international borders at some point during their annual life cycle” and thus applies to most native bird species. California Fish and Game Code Section 3503 prohibits take, possession, or needless destruction of bird nests or eggs; Section 3503.5 prohibits take or possession of birds of prey or their eggs; and Section 3513 prohibits take or possession of any migratory nongame bird. Except for a few non-native birds, such as European starling, the take of any birds or loss of active bird nests or young is regulated by these statutes. Most of these species have no other special conservation status as defined above.
The survey area has many trees, shrubs, and open areas that may provide nesting habitat. Numerous common birds are known to nest on the survey area or have a potential to nest there. Many adult birds would flee from work areas during project activities; however, nestlings and eggs would be vulnerable. If project activities include heavy equipment or brush removal during nesting season, then it would likely destroy bird nests, including eggs or nestling birds. For most birds, these impacts can be avoided by scheduling brush clearing and activities outside the nesting season. Or, if brush clearing and activities are undertaken during nesting season, work may be limited only to areas where no nesting birds are present, as documented by pre-activity nest surveys.
Some birds are likely to nest in the survey area during work activities, even after initial brush clearing have been completed. Depending on the species, birds may nest on the ground; in adjacent vegetation; or on equipment that is left overnight or during a long weekend. The species most likely to nest in the survey area during construction include species such as common ravens, house finches, California towhee, and mourning doves, all of which are protected by the MBTA and Fish and Game Code. Due to the high probability that birds may nest on site during work activities, regular monitoring and nest site management may be necessary throughout the breeding season.
5.5 Wildlife Movement
The ability for wildlife to move freely among populations and habitat areas is important to long-term genetic variation and demography. Fragmentation and isolation of natural habitat may cause loss of native species diversity in fragmented habitats. In the short term, wildlife movement may also be important to individual animals’ ability to occupy their home ranges, if their ranges extend across a potential movement barrier. These considerations are especially important for rare, threatened, or endangered species, and wide-ranging species such as large mammals, which exist in low population densities.
The California Essential Habitat Connectivity Project was commissioned by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and CDFW to create a statewide assessment of essential habitat connectivity to be used for conservation and infrastructure planning (Caltrans and CDFW, 2010). One of its goals was to create the Essential Connectivity Map, which depicts large, relatively natural habitat blocks that support native biodiversity (natural landscape blocks) and areas essential for ecological connectivity between them (essential connectivity areas). This assessment does not reflect the needs of particular species but is based on overall biological connectivity and ecological integrity. The survey area is not located within any identified Essential Habitat Connectivity Areas or Natural Landscape Blocks; however, a natural landscape block is located less than 1 mile to the east in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. The survey area is likely to support more localized movement within the region. 135
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5.6 Jurisdictional Waters
One USGS blue-line drainages is mapped within FMZ 16 in the bottom of Hobo Canyon and at the time of the surveys surface water was present. This feature is likely to fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), CDFW, and/or California Coastal Commission (CCC). A total of 14 Significant Drainage Courses, including Hobo Canyon, have also been mapped by the City of Laguna Beach within the survey area (see Figure 4; Attachment 1). These mapped Significant Drainage Courses would potentially be regulated as jurisdictional waters by the USACE, RWQCB, CDFW, and/or CCC.
5.7 High and Very High Value Habitat
“High value” and “very high value” habitats were mapped by the City of Laguna Beach in the City’s General Plan, Open Space and Conservation Elements (City of Laguna Beach, 2005). The Biological Value Map is based on the habitat integrity and extent, faunal use, and presence of endangered, rare or locally unique biota. “High value” habitats are dominated by a diversity of indigenous plant communities and wildlife dispersion corridors and are usually linked with open space areas outside the City. “Very high value” habitats include the habitats of endangered, rare or locally unique native plant species, and represent the most significant and sensitive open space areas that are likely to experience the most impact from urban development. Acres of High Value and Very High Value habitat are outlined in Table 4 and depicted in Figure 4 (Attachment 1).
6.0 Project Related Impacts
As part of the proposed project, this impacts analysis considers and incorporates the City of Laguna Beach Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones Subject to Coastal Development Permitting, dated May 27, 2020. This impact analysis also incorporates results from Aspen biological surveys.
6.1 Thresholds of Significance
Environmental impacts relative to biological resources are assessed using impact significance threshold criteria, which reflect the policy statement contained in CEQA, Section 21001(c) of the California Public Resources Code. Accordingly, the State Legislature has established it to be the policy of the State of California:
“Prevent the elimination of fish or wildlife species due to man’s activities, ensure that fish and wildlife populations do not drop below self-perpetuating levels, and Table 4. High Value Habitats in the Survey Area (Acres) Area (Acres)
Habitat Type FMZ 16 FMZ 19 Survey Area
High Value Habitat 0.00 6.99 6.99
Very High Value Habitat 3.21 0.04 3.25
Total 3.21 7.03 10.24
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preserve for future generations representations of all plant and animal communities...”
Determining whether a project may have a significant effect, or impact, plays a critical role in the CEQA process. According to CEQA, Section 15064.7 (Thresholds of Significance), each public agency is encouraged to develop and adopt (by ordinance, resolution, rule, or regulation) thresholds of significance that the agency uses in the determination of the significance of environmental effects. A threshold of significance is an identifiable quantitative, qualitative or performance level of a particular environmental effect, non-compliance with which means the effect will normally be determined to be significant by the agency and compliance with which means the effect normally will be determined to be less than significant. In the development of thresholds of significance for impacts to biological resources CEQA provides guidance primarily in Section 15065, Mandatory Findings of Significance, and the CEQA Guidelines, Appendix G, Environmental Checklist Form. Section 15065(a) states that a project may have a significant effect where:
“The project has the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or wildlife community, reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare, or threatened species, ...”
Therefore, for the purpose of this analysis, impacts to biological resources are considered potentially significant (before considering offsetting mitigation measures) if one or more of the criteria discussed in Section 6.2 would result from implementation of the proposed activities.
6.2 Discussion of Impacts in Accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
In accordance with Appendix G (Environmental Checklist Form) to the State CEQA Guidelines, the project would have a significant biota impact if it would result in impacts to items (a) through (f) listed and described below.
(a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Potential effects on special-status plants and wildlife could result from fuels reduction through vegetation thinning and removal. Acres of impact to vegetation types are shown in Table 1, where the entirety of the survey area may be impacted.
Vegetation, including potential habitat, would be trimmed, cut, crushed, trampled, damaged, and/or removed from use of hand tools and site access by crews. If used to treat invasive weeds, herbicides could drift to and degrade non-target vegetation. Disturbance of soils and removal and transport of vegetation may result in the spread of non-native invasive species in native habitats. Impacts to vegetation, in turn, could affect special-status plants and wildlife that may be present in the Project area. Project activities would result in temporary increases in human presence, noise, and dust, and habitat used by wildlife for sheltering, foraging, burrowing, and nesting would be disturbed.
The proposed Project has been designed using the City’s Treatment Protocols for FMZs, which prioritize removal of non-native and dead and dying vegetation first for fuels reduction (Section 2.2). If additional 137
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fuels reduction is required, vegetation removal would proceed according to the City’s hierarchical list to subsequently remove least sensitive plants. Overall, removal of non-native vegetation where it occurs would directly benefit treated habitats, and the selective thinning of native vegetation would benefit habitats and species in the long term by reducing wildfire risk.
Use of the Treatment Protocols for FMZs and mitigation measures (MMs), as listed below, would minimize impacts to less than significant.
Special-Status Plants. As noted in Section 5.1 and Table 3, several special-status plants have at least a moderate potential to occur or were detected in the survey area. One State and federally listed plant, bigleaved crownbeard, was observed in the survey area in FMZ 16. Two special-status plants with a CRPR of 1B were also observed including intermediate mariposa lily and decumbent goldenbush. Lastly, two special-status plants with a CRPR of 4 were also observed and include Fish’s milkwort and Coulter’s matilija poppy.
Impacts to special-status plants may occur during vegetation thinning and removal, as described above.
However, the Project would prioritize the removal of non-native species, dead or dying vegetation, and least sensitive plants first. Use of hand tools would result in minimal, temporary impacts in the Project area. If any special-status plants or animals are found, a trained biological monitor would flag such areas before treatment to ensure the species are protected and avoided.
To further minimize impacts to special-status plants, MMs would be implemented as described below.
With avoidance of special-status plants and use of MMs, impacts would be less than significant.
Special-Status Wildlife. As noted in Section 5.2, several special-status wildlife species have at least a moderate potential to occur in the Project area. Cooper’s hawk was the only special-status wildlife species observed within the survey area.
Impacts to special-status wildlife may occur during vegetation thinning and removal. Wildlife habitat would be modified through trimming, cutting, trampling, and removal, as previously described. Increased human activity would cause most mobile wildlife species to vacate the area of disturbance, however wildlife dispersing from the site could be temporarily displaced from home territories. Project activities could result in crushing of less mobile or burrowing species by crews. Increased noise could temporarily affect wildlife in adjacent habitats by disrupting foraging or breeding activities; or may cause wildlife to avoid otherwise suitable habitat surrounding the site. If used to treat invasive weeds, herbicides that persist on site could injure wildlife that ingest or come into contact with target plants.
Per the City’s Treatment Protocols, proposed fuel modification activities would not entirely remove suitable habitat but would be restricted to selective vegetation thinning and removal of dead plant material and non-native vegetation. Use of hand tools would result in minimal, temporary impacts in the Project area. Selective vegetation-thinning and the associated openings created could potentially benefit certain species of plants that may be host plants or food plants for monarch butterfly and Crotch bumble bee or certain wildlife species that prefer more open habitat structure, such as the coast horned lizard and whiptail species.
MMs would be implemented as described below, and impacts would be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures
BIO-1 The City of Laguna Beach (City) shall assign a qualified biologist to the project (i.e., Project Biologist). The Project Biologist shall be responsible for conducting pre-construction surveys 138
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(MM BIO-2), implementing nesting bird avoidance measures (MM BIO-3), monitoring project activities (MM BIO-4), conducting worker training (MM BIO-5), and flagging drainages (MM BIO6). A "qualified biologist" is defined as a person with appropriate education, training, and experience to conduct the required surveys, monitor project activities, provide worker education programs, and supervise or perform other monitoring-related actions. The Project Biologist shall be authorized by the City to temporarily halt project activities, if needed, to prevent take of listed species or harm to any other special-status species.
BIO-2 Prior to start of project activities, the Project Biologist shall survey the work area to determine if any special-status species are present. During the survey, the Project Biologist should search for nesting birds, special-status plants, and other special-status species. Any special-status species or sensitive resources shall be flagged and avoided, as feasible. Listed plant species, including big-leaved crownbeard, and special-status species with a CRPR of 1B, including intermediate mariposa-lily and decumbent goldenbush, shall be flagged, and a 15-foot buffer installed. No work shall be permitted within these buffers. The Project Biologist shall also flag coast live oak seedlings and western sycamore seedlings for avoidance, as feasible. The Project Biologist shall also search for shot hole borers on all oak and sycamore trees that are proposed for pruning. If shot hole borers are found, the Project Biologist will notify the City who will then coordinate with Orange County Parks, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). All pruning tools shall be cleaned and disinfected prior to use within the project area and at least weekly during the project to further reduce the spread of pathogens.
BIO-3 Vegetation removal and initial ground disturbance shall be completed outside the bird breeding season (i.e., no removal of potential nesting habitat from January 1 through September 1), or after a pre-construction nesting bird survey has been completed. The survey shall be completed no more than three days prior to Project activities to ensure that birds are not engaged in active nesting within the Project sites and 100-foot buffer. If any birds are nesting on the site, then project activities will be postponed until nesting is completed or the Project Biologist shall designate appropriate avoidance buffers around nests to protect nesting birds. The width of the buffer will be determined by the Project Biologist. Typically, this is a minimum of 100-300 feet from the nest site in all directions, species dependent, and up to 500 feet for raptors or coastal California gnatcatcher. No project related disturbance shall be allowed within these buffers until the Project Biologist has confirmed that the juveniles have fledged and there has been no evidence of a second attempt at nesting.
BIO-4 The Project Biologist shall be present as needed on the project sites during vegetation clearing done by hand crews as necessary to ensure compliance with the avoidance and minimization measures and to provide guidance in avoiding or minimizing impacts to biological resources. The Project Biologist shall also conduct quarterly monitoring of the Project sites for 12 months after the completion of the fuel treatment. During this post-treatment monitoring the Project Biologist will inspect the mulched plant material for Argentine ants and will also note wildlife use of the treatment areas. If Argentine ants are found within the mulched plant material, the City shall implement an ant control program to remove them from these areas. If any new non-native plants are found within the project area, the City shall implement a control program for these species to ensure they are eradicated and not allowed to spread into adjacent natural lands.
BIO-5 The Project Biologist shall conduct training to ensure that all workers on the Project sites are aware of all applicable mitigation measures for biological resources. Specifically, workers will be required to (1) limit all activities to approved work areas; (2) report any special-status species; 139
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(3) report any bird nests; (4) avoid contact with any wildlife that may approach a work area, and be aware of potential venomous reptile bites from carelessness or unnecessary harassment; (5) pick up and properly dispose of any food, trash, or construction refuse; and (6) report any spilled materials (e.g., oil, fuel, solvent, engine coolant, raw concrete, or other material potentially hazardous to wildlife) to the supervisor. During the training, the Project Biologist shall briefly discuss special-status species that may occur in the work areas, their habitats, and requirements to avoid or minimize impacts. In addition, all workers shall be informed of civil and criminal penalties for violations of the federal Endangered Species Act, California Endangered Species Act, and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
BIO-6 To avoid or reduce potential impacts to listed or non-listed special-status plants, the Project Biologist shall complete a protocol-level survey for special-status plants within the Project site.
The survey shall follow the methods in the current version of CDFW’s Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Sensitive Natural Communities (CDFW, 2018). The survey shall be (a) conducted during flowering seasons for the special-status plants known from the area, (b) floristic in nature, (c) consistent with conservation ethics, (d) systematically covered all habitat types on the sites, and (e) well documented. The results of this survey will help the Project Biologist locate all special-status plants and install appropriate buffers as specificized in MM BIO-2.
(b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
Riparian Habitat. Riparian habitat is absent from the Project sites, and no impacts would occur.
If present, in accordance with the City’s Treatment Protocols, a 25-foot buffer would be required on either side of any “blue-line” ephemeral drainages or stream courses (as listed by USGS map or City Website) that cross the project site. Within the buffer, only non-native vegetation identified during pre-project surveys would be removed, unless site specific conditions require additional removal for fire breaks.
Lemonade Berry Scrub (Rhus integrifolia Shrubland Alliance (S3G3)). The Project would result in direct impacts to 24.61acres of lemonade berry scrub (see Table 1 and Figures 3 and 4). Impacts would be similar to those described for vegetation in Section 6.2(a). The fuel modification program is designed to limit potential impacts through selective thinning that would ensure that native vegetation cover is never reduced by more than one-half. Impacts to areas of chaparral habitat, including lemonade berry scrub, would not remove more than 50-percent of the total vegetative cover. In accordance with the City’s Treatment Protocols, vegetation thinning would remove all non-native and dead vegetation first, followed by native species in hierarchical order, as presented in Section 2.2. While lemonade berry scrub is the last element in the removal hierarchy, it may require removal specifically in areas where the lemonade berry scrub exhibits more than 50 percent cover. However, with implementation of the City’s Treatment Protocols and MMs, impacts to lemonade berry scrub would be less than significant.
High Value/Very High Value Habitat. The Project would impact approximately 7.03 acres of High Value Habitat in FMZ 19 and approximately 3.21 acres of Very High Value Habitat within FMZ 16. Impacts would be similar to those described for vegetation in Section 6.2(a). Removal of non-native vegetation where it occurs would directly benefit these habitats, and the selective thinning of native vegetation would benefit habitats and species in the long term by reducing wildfire risk. 140
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With avoidance of special-status plants, implementation of the City’s Treatment Protocols, and use of project MMs, impacts to High and Very High Value Habitat would be less than significant.
The following MMs would further reduce potential impacts to sensitive natural communities by minimizing the spread of plant pathogens and noxious and invasive weeds.
BIO-7 To prevent the spread of plant pathogens in sensitive natural communities, riparian habitats, and oak woodlands, the following shall be implemented:
Clean and sanitize vehicles, equipment, tools, footwear, and clothes before arriving at a treatment site and when leaving a contaminated site, or a site in a county where contamination is a risk;
Include training on Phytopthora diseases and other plant pathogens in the worker awareness training (MM BIO-5);
Minimize soil disturbance as much as possible by limiting the number of vehicles, avoiding offroad travel as much as possible, and limiting use of mechanized equipment; Minimize movement of soil and plant material within the site, especially between areas with high and low risk of contamination;
Clean soil and debris from equipment and sanitize hand tools, buckets, gloves, and footwear when moving from high risk to low-risk areas or between widely separated portions of a treatment area; and
Follow the procedures listed in Guidance for plant pathogen prevention when working at contaminated restoration sites or with rare plants and sensitive habitat (Working Group for Phytoptheras in Native Habitats, 2016).
BIO-8 To prevent the spread of invasive plants, noxious weeds, and invasive wildlife, the following shall be implemented:
Clean clothing, footwear, and equipment used during treatments of soil, seeds, vegetative matter, other debris or seed-bearing material, or water (e.g., rivers, streams, creeks, lakes) before entering the treatment area or when leaving an area with infestations of invasive plants, noxious weeds, or invasive wildlife;
For all heavy equipment and vehicles traveling off road, pressure wash, if feasible, or otherwise appropriately decontaminate equipment at a designated weed-cleaning station prior to entering the treatment area from an area with infestations of invasive plants, noxious weeds, or invasive wildlife. Anti-fungal wash agents shall be specified if the equipment has been exposed to any pathogen that could affect native species; Inspect all heavy equipment, vehicles, tools, or other treatment-related materials for sand, mud, or other signs that weed seeds or propagules could be present prior to use in the treatment area. If the equipment is not clean, the Project Biologist shall deny entry to the work areas;
Stage equipment in areas free of invasive plant infestations unless there are no un-infested areas present within a reasonable proximity to the treatment area; 141
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Identify significant infestations of invasive plant species (i.e., those rated as invasive by Cal-IPC or designated as noxious weeds by California Department of Food and Agriculture) during reconnaissance-level surveys and target them for removal during treatment activities.
Treatment methods will be selected based on the invasive species present and may include herbicide application and use of power and non-power hand tools and will be designed to maximize success in killing or removing the invasive plants and preventing reestablishment based on the life history characteristics of the invasive plant species present. Treatments will be focused on removing invasive plant species that cause ecological harm to native vegetation types, especially those that can alter fire cycles;
Dispose of invasive plant biomass offsite at an appropriate waste collection facility; transport invasive plant materials in a closed container or bag to prevent the spread of propagules during transport;
Implement Fire and Fuel Management Best Management Practices outlined in the “Preventing the Spread of Invasive Plants: Best Management Practices for Land Mangers” (Cal-IPC 2012, or current version); and
(c) Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means?
Wetlands. There are no wetlands as defined by the state or under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, occurring within the project site, and there would be no impacts due to implementation of the fuel modification program.
The Project sites contain one USGS blue-line drainage and portions of 14 segments of Significant Stream Courses. As specified in the City’s Treatment Protocols, a 25-foot buffer on each side of each Significant Stream Course would be established where only non-native vegetation identified during pre-project surveys would be removed, unless site specific considerations require additional vegetation removal for fire breaks. To reduce potential impacts to protected wetlands, the following MM would be implemented.
BIO-9 The Project Biologist shall flag the limits of all drainages crossing through or entering the project sites for avoidance. The flagging will be installed 25 feet from the edges of the drainage or to the edge of riparian vegetation, whichever is a greater distance. No project related disturbance shall be allowed within these buffers with the exception of necessary treatment and/or removal of non-native plant species.
(d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
Wildlife Movement. Movement through the Project sites is likely limited to low-lying canyon bottoms and is not likely to occur along residential margins where fuel modification activities are proposed.
Additionally, the sites are not located within or adjacent to a wildlife movement corridor. While a certain level of resident wildlife is expected to move within the Project sites, per the City’s Treatment Protocols proposed fuel modification activities will thin vegetation in a manner that maintains use by resident wildlife. As such, there would be no significant impacts to wildlife movement.
Nesting Birds and Migratory Bird Treaty Act Considerations. The Project sites currently support a mix of native and non-native shrubs, trees and herbaceous cover that have the potential to support nesting birds. 142
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Potential impacts to nesting birds would be mitigated to less than significant with implementation of preproject nesting bird surveys, as needed, and general avoidance of the nesting season, per the City’s Treatment Protocols.
(e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
High Value/Very High Value Habitat. The Project sites are located within the coastal zone, which is under the permitting authority of the City of Laguna Beach through the City’s Local Coastal Program. In addition, the City has inventoried biological resources occurring within the City and has designated several categories of habitat value, ranging from low value habitats to very high value habitats. Portions of the project site occur within areas designated as High Value and Very High Value habitat, as described in Section 5.7. The City requires that all development proposals, including fuel modification proposals, located within or adjacent to High Value or Very High Value habitat, undergo detailed biological assessments. Pursuant to the City’s General Plan, these biological assessments are to utilize the biological value criteria specified in the City’s Biological Resource Inventories to conduct an updated, and smallerscale assessment of the resources present on site.
The project would impact a combined total of 10.24 acres of High Value (6.99 acres) and Very High Value (3.25 acres) Habitats consisting of chaparral and coastal sage habitat types. The project proposes to reduce the cover within these areas by up to 50 percent with selective thinning. However, with the implementation of the City’s Treatment Protocols and the avoidance of sensitive species, impacts to High and Very High Value Habitats would be reduced given; (1) that the habitat would not be entirely removed from the project site; (2) that the habitat is abundant in adjacent open space surrounding the project site; and (3) that the total acreage of potential impacts to these habitats would be limited. Additionally, disturbed portions of habitat currently mapped as High Value and Very High Value habitat would benefit directly from the removal of non-native invasive plant species and selective thinning, which would reduce wildlife risk.
Significant Drainage Courses. To protect watershed areas and natural watercourses, the City of Laguna Beach has designated certain drainage features throughout the City as “significant drainage courses.” Avoidance of these drainage courses is recommended within the City’s General Plan to minimize the likelihood of disasters such as flooding and mudslides, and to protect water supply, water quality, and valuable habitat lands and ecological systems. As discussed under question (c), one USGS blue-line drainage and portions of 14 segments of Significant Stream Courses cross or partially intersect the project site. With establishment of the 25-foot buffers from both edges of each significant drainage and limited vegetation removal per the City’s Treatment Protocols, impacts to the City’s significant drainage courses would be less than significant.
Trees. Native trees would not be removed. Per the City’s Treatment Protocols, large trees such as oaks and sycamores shall be pruned of dead components, and lower small branches removed to a height of 8 feet or one half their height, whichever is less, to disrupt “fuel ladder” potential. Dead and downed tree components on the ground below large trees would be removed. With implementation of the City’s Treatment Protocols, impacts to the large trees would be less than significant.
With implementation of the City’s Treatment Protocols as part of the proposed Project and use of MMs, the Project would not conflict with local policies and ordinances and impacts would be less than significant.
BIO-10 To mitigate for the loss of Very High Value Habitat, the City shall complete 0.5:1 ratio of active restoration, 1:1 ratio of partial restoration (20-50%), or 1.5:1 ratio of passive restoration for each 143
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acre of Very High Value Habitat impacted. Prior to the start of the project, the City shall develop and implement a Habitat Restoration Plan, subject to site and methods approval of the California Coastal Commission. The plan shall include adaptive management practices to achieve the specified ratio for restoration/ enhancement. At a minimum, the plan shall include a description of the existing conditions of the receiver site(s), goals and timeline, installation methods, monitoring procedures, plant spacing, adaptive management strategies, and maintenance requirements which will be reviewed and approved by the monitoring biologist to ensure the sensitive communities referred to above are reestablished successfully at the ratios set forth above. The plan will also include information on the responsible party for implementation of the mitigation. The Habitat Restoration Plan will be made available to the Wildlife Agencies for review and approval prior to implementation. The Habitat Restoration Plan shall be implemented no more than 12 months after the start of project activities. (f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? The project sites occur entirely within the Orange County Central Coastal Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP)/ Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) area. The City of Laguna Beach is not a signatory to the Orange County Central Coastal NCCP/HCP; however, the Project does not conflict with the NCCP/HCP as the Project proposes to benefit habitat by removing invasive species and to reduce wildfire risk by reducing total vegetation cover by up to fifty percent. It does not propose to completely remove native habitat.
All potential impacts to sensitive habitats and species are mitigated through the City’s Treatment Protocols and mitigation measures. As such, the proposed Project would not conflict with adopted HCPs, NCCPs, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan.
7.0 Recommended Measures
7.1 Treatment Protocol Measures
In addition to the recommended mitigation measures, the City’s Treatment Protocols include the following measures which must be implemented as part of the proposed project. These measures would avoid and/or minimize impacts to the following biological resources.
Special-Status Plants. Whenever sensitive plant species are identified prior to conducting fuel modification activities, they will be protected by establishing a flagged, 15-foot buffer around all specimens of the sensitive species, inside of which no material shall be initially removed.
High and Very High Value Habitat. To minimize impacts to native vegetation designated as High or Very High Value Habitat, including lemonade berry scrub, thinning will focus on the removal of non-native species and dead or dying material to achieve a threshold of no more than fifty-percent vegetative cover.
In areas dominated by non-native species or dead and dying material, cover may be reduced to less than fifty percent. Where it is not possible to reduce cover to at least 50 percent through the removal of only non-natives and dead or dying material, woody native species may be removed until cover is reduced to 50% using the hierarchy listed in Section 2.2.
Riparian Habitat. A 25-foot buffer shall be avoided on either side of any “blue-line” ephemeral drainages or stream courses (as listed by USGS map or the City of Laguna Beach) that cross the treatment area. 144
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Nesting Birds. To avoid impacts to nesting and migratory birds protected under Sections 3503 and 3503.5 of the California Fish and Game Code, it is recommended that any removal or clearing of vegetation be conducted outside of the breeding season, (February 1 to August 31). In the event that seasonal conditions promote a high risk for wildfires, work may occur during the breeding season if a qualified biologist conducts a survey for nesting birds within 48 hours prior to the commencement of fuel modification activities in the area and ensures that no active nests are affected.
8.0. Literature Cited
American Ornithologists’ Union. 1998. Checklist of the North American Birds, 7th ed. Prepared by Committee on Classification and Nomenclature. American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington DC.
Baldwin, B.G., D.H. Goldman, D.J. Keil, R. Patterson, T.J. Rosatti, D.H. Wilken (eds.) 2012. The Jepson Manual: Vascular Plants of California, 2nd ed. University Press, Berkeley, California.
Barbour, R.W. and W.H. Davis. 1969. Bats of America. University Press of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky.
CBOC (California Burrowing Owl Consortium). 1993. Burrowing owl survey protocol and mitigation guidelines. Alviso, California. 13 pp.
CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2023a. California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), Rarefind, Version 5. Heritage section, CDFW, Sacramento. _____. 2023b. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. CDFW, Sacramento. Online: https:// nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=109383&inline _____. 2023c. Special Animals List. CDFW, Sacramento. Online: https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/ FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=109406&inline
_____. 2023d. California Sensitive Natural Communities List. CDFW. Sacramento. Online:
https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=153609&inline _____. 2018. Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Sensitive Natural Communities. Online: https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx? DocumentID=18959
CalTrans and CDFW (California Department of Transportation and California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2010. California Essential Habitat Connectivity Project: A Strategy for Conserving a Connected California. Online: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/habcon/connectivity/ CNPS (California Native Plant Society). 2023. Inventory of rare and endangered plants. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento. Online: http://www.cnps.org/inventory. Accessed June 2023.
City of Laguna Beach. 2005. Laguna Beach General Plan, Open Space and Conservation Elements.
Adopted May 1, 1984.
CCH (Consortium of California Herbaria). 2023. Botanical specimen data provided by the participants of the Consortium of California Herbaria. Online: http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/consortium/.
Accessed June 2023.
eBird.org. 2023. eBird: An online database of bird distribution and abundance [web application]. eBird, Ithaca, New York. Online: http://www.ebird.org. Accessed June 2023.
Feldhamer, G.A., B.C. Thompson, and J.A. Chapman (eds.). 2003. Wild Mammals of North America:
Biology, Management and Conservation, 2nd ed. Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore MD. 145
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Garrett, K. and J. Dunn. 1981. Birds of Southern California: Status and Distribution. Los Angeles Audubon Society, Los Angeles, California.
Hall, E.R. 1981. The Mammals of North America. John Wiley and Sons, New York. iNaturalist. 2023. Online: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations Accessed June 2023.
Jennings, M.R. and M.P. Hayes. 1994. Amphibian and reptile species of special concern in California.
California Dept. of Fish and Game, Sacramento.
Kochert, M. N., K. Steenhof, C. L. Mcintyre and E. H. Craig. 2002. Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Online:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/684doi:10.2173/bna.684 Orange County Public Works. 2023. Hydrology Data Portal. Online: http://hydstra.ocpublicworks.com/ web.htm Accessed June 2023.
Pagel, J.E., D.M. Whittington, and G.T. Allen. 2010. Interim Golden Eagle technical guidance: inventory and monitoring protocols; and other recommendations in support of eagle management and permit issuance. Division of Migratory Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Sawyer, J.O., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J.M. Evans. 2009. Manual of California Vegetation, 2nd ed. California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 1300 pp.
Stebbins, R.C. 2003. Western Reptiles and Amphibians, 3rd ed. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston Mass.
U.S. Climate Data, 2023. U.S. Climate Data Website. Online: https://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/ lagunabeach/california/united-states/usca0027 Accessed June 2023.
USFWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). 2023a. ECOS (Environmental Conservation Online System), Threatened & Endangered Species Active Critical Habitat Report, Online Mapper. Available at:
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/report/table/critical-habitat.html. _____. 2023b. IPaC Information for Planning and Consultation. Online: https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/.
Accessed June 2023.
_____. 2007. Protection of Eagles; Definition of ‘‘Disturb.’’ Federal Register 72:31132 -31140 (5 Jun). _____. 1997. Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) Presence/Absence Survey Protocol. Unpublished report. USFWS Field Office, Carlsbad, CA.
Wilson, D.E. and S. Ruff (eds.). 1999. Smithsonian Book of North American Mammals. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington DC.
Zeiner, D. C., W. F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White (eds.). 1990. California's Wildlife. Vol. III.
Mammals. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sacramento. 146
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Attachment 1 – Figures
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73 Crystal Cove
State Park
Emerald Bay
tal Cove
Laguna Beach
73 San Diego Fwy
Laguna Coast
Wilderness Park
Laguna Hills
133
San Dieg
o
Fwy
Aliso & Wood
Canyons
Wilderness Pk
Capist
Beac
Galivan
Three Arch Bay
Laguna Niguel
Dana Point
Aliso Viejo
133 ÄÆ
ÄÆ73
ÄÆ1
§¨¦5
Project
Location
Pacific Ocean
Los Angeles
County
Orange
County
Riverside
County
San
Bernardino
County
San Diego
County
Figure 1
Regional Map
0 1 2
Miles
Scale 1:75,000 ¯
FMZ 16
FMZ 19
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Ashton Dr
Rounsevel Ter
Hinkle Pl
L
ag
u
nita Ln
Du
mond
Dr
N
yes Pl
Nyes Pl
Alexander
Rd
S
Coast
Hwy
S
S t
Lagunita Ln
K S t
C S t
M S t
Kendall Dr
Loret ta Dr
K
St
Nyes Pl
M S t
Scale 1:4,000
1 inch = 333 feet
0 300 600
Feet
¯
FMZ 16
Sources: Aspen, 2023; ESRI, 2023.
Figure 2a
Project Site
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Surf & Sand
Resort
Summit Dr
Bluebird Canyon
Mountain Rd
Bluebird Park
1 Baja S t
Bluebird Canyon Dr
Glenneyre S t
Glenneyre St
Center S t
Moss S t
Diamond S t
Carmelita St
Pala Way
Ocean Way
Pearl St
California
Coastal National
Monument
Laguna Beach
Inn
Seaside
Laguna Inn &
Suites
Su
mmit Dr
La Mirada S t
Capistrano Ave
Quivera
St
Katella S t
Balboa Ave
Miramar S t
Del Mar Ave
Noria St
Acapulco S t
Bo
lsa
Mar
na Dr
li
n
Cortez Ave
Scale 1:7,000
1 inch = 583 feet
0 300 600
Feet
¯
FMZ 19
Sources: Aspen, 2023; ESRI, 2023.
Figure 2b
Project Site
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Pa
Queda Way
la Way
Sunset Ter
S Coast Hwy
California
stal National
Monument
M
arl
in
1 K S t
F St
G S t
Nyes Pl
Nyes Pl
Terry Rd
S Coast Hwy
Figure 3a
Vegetation and Land Cover
Scale 1:4,800
1 inch = 400 feet
0 200 400
Feet
¯
FMZ 16
Vegetation and Land Cover
Ceanothus
Fountain grass swards
Holly leaf cherry - toyon - greenbark ceanothus chaparral Lemonade berry scrub
Ornamental vegetation and development
Sources: ESRI, 2023.
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Summit Dr
1 Glenneyre S t
Center S t
Flora St
Moss St
Diamond S t
Baja St
California
stal National
Monument
Laguna Beach
Inn
S
u
m
mit Dr
Del Ma
Katella S t
Capistrano Ave Miramar St
Noria S t
Figure 3b
Vegetation and Land Cover
Scale 1:4,851
1 inch = 404 feet
0 200 400
Feet
¯
FMZ 19
Vegetation and Land Cover
California sagebrush - black sage scrub
Holly leaf cherry - toyon - greenbark ceanothus chaparral Lemonade berry scrub
Ornamental vegetation and development
Sources: ESRI, 2023.
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Pa
Queda Way
la Way
Sunset Ter
S Coast Hwy
California
stal National
Monument
M
arl
in
1 K S t
F St
G St
Nyes Pl
Nyes Pl
Terry Rd
S Coast Hwy
Figure 4a
Biological Resources
Scale 1:4,800
1 inch = 400 feet
0 200 400
Feet
¯
FMZ 16
Significant Drainage Course Centerline
Drainage Course 25ft Buffer
High Value Habitat
Very High Value Habitat
Special-Status Wildlife
Cooper's Hawk Big-leaved crownbeard
Coulter's matilija poppy
Intermediate mariposa lily
Big-leaved crownbeard
Special-Status Plants
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Summit Dr
Glenneyre S t
Center S t
Flora S t
Moss St
Diamond S t
Baja St
Laguna Beach
Inn
S
ummit Dr Katella St
Capistrano Ave Miramar S t
Noria S t
Figure 4b Biological
Resources
Scale 1:4,800
1 inch = 400 feet
0 200 400
Feet
¯
FMZ 19
Significant Drainage Course Centerline
Drainage Course 25ft Buffer
High Value Habitat
Very High Value Habitat
Special-Status Wildlife
Cooper's Hawk Coulter's matilija poppy
Decumbent goldenbush
Fish's milkwort
Intermediate mariposa lily
Intermediate mariposa lily
Special-Status Plants
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Attachment 2 – CNDDB Query Results
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Attachment 3 – Special-Status Species Not Addressed
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PROPOSED FUEL MODIFICATION ZONES 16 AND 19 PROJECT
March 2024
Attachment 3. Special-Status Species Not Addressed1
Latin Name Common Name Reason for Exclusion
PLANTS
Abronia villosa var. aurita Chaparral sand-verbena No suitable wash habitat.
Abronia maritima red sand-verbena No suitable coastal dune habitat.
Astragalus brauntonii Braunton's milk-vetch No suitable carbonate soils.
Astragalus hornii var. hornii Horn's milk-vetch No suitable alkali or playa habitat.
Atriplex parishii Parish's brittlescale No suitable alkali or playa habitat.
Atriplex serenana var. davidsonii Davidson's saltscale No suitable alkali or playa habitat.
Brodiaea filifolia Thread-leaved brodiaea No suitable clay soils.
Calochortus plummerae Plummer's mariposa-lily Well outside of geographic range.
Centromadia parryi ssp. australis Southern tarplant No suitable alkali or playa habitat.
Chaenactis glabriuscula var. orcuttiana Orcutt's pincushion No suitable coastal dune habitat.
Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum Salt marsh bird's-beak No suitable salt marsh habitat.
Convolvulus simulans, Small-flowered morning-glory No suitable clay soils.
Diplacus clevelandii, Cleveland's bush monkeyflower Well outside of geographic range.
Eleocharis parvula small spikerush No suitable vernal pool or wetland habitat.
Eryngium aristulatum var. parishii San Diego button-celery No suitable vernal pool habitat.
Harpagonella palmeri Palmer's grapplinghook No suitable clay soils.
Helianthus nuttallii ssp. parishii Los Angeles sunflower No suitable seeps or springs.
Hordeum intercedens vernal barley No suitable vernal pool or wetland habitat.
Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii southwestern spiny rush No suitable marsh or wetland habitat.
Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri Coulter's goldfields No suitable vernal pool habitat.
Microseris douglasii ssp. platycarpha small-flowered microseris No suitable clay soils.
Monardella hypoleuca ssp. intermedia Intermediate monardella Well outside of geographic range.
Nama stenocarpa Mud nama No suitable vernal pool or lakebed habitat.
Nasturtium gambelii Gambel's water cress No suitable seeps or springs.
Navarretia prostrata Prostrate vernal pool navarretia No vernal pool habitat.
Nemacaulis denudata var. denudata Coast woolly-heads No suitable coastal dune habitat.
Nolina cismontana Chaparral nolina Well outside of geographic range.
Orcuttia californica California Orcutt grass No suitable vernal pool habitat.
Pentachaeta aurea ssp. allenii Allen's pentachaeta Well outside of geographic range.
Pentachaeta aurea ssp. aurea, Golden-rayed pentachaeta Well outside of geographic range.
Phacelia hubbyi Hubby's phacelia Well outside of geographic range.
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum White rabbit-tobacco No suitable wash habitat.
Sidalcea neomexicana Salt spring checkerbloom No suitable seeps or springs.
Suaeda esteroa Estuary seablite No estuaries or salt marsh habitat.
Symphyotrichum defoliatum San Bernardino aster No suitable seeps or springs.
Viguiera laciniata San Diego County viguiera Well outside of geographic range.
INVERTEBRATES
Branchinecta sandiegonensis San Diego fairy shrimp No vernal pool habitat.
Cicindela hirticollis gravida Sandy beach tiger beetle No suitable coastal dune habitat.
Cicindela latesignata Western beach tiger beetle No suitable coastal dune habitat.
Coelus globosus Globose dune beetle No suitable coastal dune habitat.
Habroscelimorpha gabbii Western tidal-flat tiger beetle No suitable tidal flat habitat. 163
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March 2024
Attachment 3. Special-Status Species Not Addressed1
Latin Name Common Name Reason for Exclusion
Panoquina errans Wandering skipper No estuaries or salt marsh habitat.
Streptocephalus woottoni Riverside fairy shrimp No suitable vernal pool habitat.
Tryonia imitator California brackishwater snail No suitable brackish aquatic habitat.
FISHES
Eucyclogobius newberryi Tidewater goby No suitable aquatic habitat.
Gila orcuttii Arroyo chub No suitable aquatic habitat.
Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus pop. 10 Steelhead - southern California DPS No suitable aquatic habitat.
Rhinichthys osculus ssp. 8 Santa Ana speckled dace No suitable aquatic habitat.
AMPHIBIANS
Anaxyrus californicus Arroyo toad No suitable aquatic habitat.
Spea hammondii Western spadefoot No suitable aquatic habitat.
REPTILES
Emys marmorata Western pond turtle No suitable aquatic habitat.
Thamnophis hammondii Two-striped gartersnake No suitable aquatic habitat.
BIRDS
Agelaius tricolor Tricolored blackbird No suitable marsh or agricultural habitat.
Charadrius nivosus nivosus Western snowy plover No suitable lakebed or playa habitat.
Coccyzus americanus occidentalis Western yellow-billed cuckoo No suitable riparian habitat.
Coturnicops noveboracensis Yellow rail No suitable wetland or playa habitat.
Empidonax traillii extimus Southwestern Willow Flycatcher No suitable riparian habitat.
Icteria virens Yellow-breasted chat No suitable riparian habitat.
Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus California black rail No suitable saltmarsh habitat.
Pandion haliaetus Osprey No suitable roosting or foraging habitat.
Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi Belding's savannah sparrow No suitable saltmarsh habitat.
Rallus obsoletus levipes Light-footed Ridgway's rail No suitable wetland or playa habitat.
Riparia riparia Bank swallow Extirpated from Southern California.
Setophaga petechia Yellow warbler No suitable riparian habitat.
Sternula antillarum browni California least tern No suitable coastal dune habitat.
Vireo bellii pusillus Least Bell's vireo No suitable riparian habitat.
MAMMALS
Chaetodipus californicus femoralis Dulzura pocket mouse Well outside of geographic range.
Chaetodipus fallax fallax Northwestern San Diego pocket mouse
Well outside of geographic range.
Onychomys torridus ramona Southern grasshopper mouse Well outside of geographic range.
Perognathus longimembris pacificus Pacific pocket mouse Well outside of geographic range.
Sorex ornatus salicornicus Southern California saltmarsh shrew No suitable saltmarsh habitat.
Taxidea taxus American badger Surrounded by development, not adequately sized to support animals.
Note:
1 Special-status species reported from the region, but not addressed in this report due to habitat or geographic range. 164
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Attachment 4 – Project Species List
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PROPOSED FUEL MODIFICATION ZONES 16 AND 19 PROJECT
March 2024
Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
VASCULAR PLANTS
Dicotyledons
POLYPODEACEAE FERN FAMILY
Polypodium californicum California polypody
PINACEAE PINE FAMILY
* Pinus sp. Unid. ornamental
ADOXACEAE MUSKROOT FAMILY
Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea Mexican elderberry, blue elderberry AIZOACEAE FIG-MARIGOLD or ICEPLANT FAMILY
* Carpobrotus edulis Freeway iceplant, hottentot fig
* Mesembryanthemum crystallinum Crystalline ice plant
ANACARDIACEAE SUMAC or CASHEW FAMILY
Malosma laurina Laurel sumac
Rhus integrifolia Lemonade berry
Rhus ovata Sugar bush
* Schinus molle Peruvian pepper tree
* Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian pepper tree
Toxicodendron diversilobum Western poison oak
APIACEAE CELERY FAMILY
Apiastrum angustifolium Wild celery
* Conium maculatum Poison hemlock
* Foeniculum vulgare Fennel
APOCYNACEAE DOGBANE FAMILY
* Vinca major Greater periwinkle, blue periwinkle
ARALIACEAE GINSENG FAMILY, IVY FAMILY
* Hedera helix English ivy
ASTERACEAE ASTER FAMILY
Acourtia microcephala Sacapellote
Ambrosia psilostachya Western ragweed
Artemisia californica California sagebrush
Artemisia douglasiana Douglas mugwort
Baccharis pilularis Coyote brush
Baccharis salicifolia Mule fat
* Carduus pycnocephalus Italian thistle
* Centaurea melitensis Tocalote
Corethrogyne filaginifolia Common sand aster
* Cotula australis Brass buttons
* Cynara cardunculus Artichoke thistle, cardoon
* Delairea odorata Cape ivy
Deinandra fasciculata Clustered tarweed
* Dipomophotheca fructicosa Trailing African daisy
Encelia californica California encelia
Eriophyllum confertiflorum Common yarrow
* Glebionis coronaria Garland daisy
Hazardia squarosa Saw-tooth goldenbush
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March 2024
Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
* Helminthotheca echioides Bristly ox-tongue
Heterotheca grandiflora Telegraph weed
* Hypochaeris glabra Smooth cat's-ear
** Isocoma menziesii var. decumbens Decumbent goldenbush Isocoma menziesii var. menziesii Menzie's goldenbush
* Lactuca seriola Wire lettuce
Malacothrix saxatilis var. tenuifolia Short leaved cliff aster Pseudognaphalium biolettii Bicolored cudweed
Pseudognaphalium stramineum Cottonbatting plant
* Pulicaria paludosa Spanish false fleabane
* Senecio vulgaris Common groundsel
* Silybum marianum Milk thistle
* Sonchus asper Prickly sow thistle
* Sonchus oleraceus Sow thistle
Stephanomeria virgata Twiggy wreath plant
* Taraxacum officinale Red-seeded dandelion
* Verbesina dissita Crownbeard
BORAGINACEAE BORAGE OR WATERLEAF FAMILY
Amsinckia intermedia Large flower rancher's fiddleneck
Cryptantha sp. Unid. annual cryptantha
* Echium candicans Pride of Madeira
Eucrypta chrysanthemifolia Common eucrypta
Phacelia distans Common phacelia
Phacelia parryi Parry's phacelia
Phacelia ramosissima Branching phacelia
Pholitoma auritum Fiesta flower
BRASSICACEAE MUSTARD FAMILY
* Brassica nigra Black mustard
* Capsella bursa-pastoris Shepherd's purse
* Hirschfeldia incana Shortpod mustard
* Lobularia maritima Sweet alyssum
* Raphanus sativus Wild radish
* Sisymbrium irio London rocket
* Sisymbrium orientale Hare's ear cabbage
CACTACEAE CACTUS FAMILY
Cylindropuntia prolifera Coastal cholla
Opuntia littoralis Coastal prickly pear
CAPRIFOLIACEAE HONEYSUCKLE FAMILY
* Lonicera japonica Japanese honeysuckle
Symphoricarpos mollis Snowberry
CARYOPHYLLACEAE PINK FAMILY
* Polycarpon tetraphyllum Four leaved allseed
* Stellaria media Chickweed
CHENOPODIACEAE GOOSEFOOT FAMILY
* Atriplex semibaccata Australian saltbush
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PROPOSED FUEL MODIFICATION ZONES 16 AND 19 PROJECT
March 2024
Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
Chenopodium californicum California goosefoot
* Salsola tragus Russian thistle
CLEOMACEAE CAPER FAMILY
Peritoma arborea Bladderpod
CONVOLVULACEAE MORNING-GLORY FAMILY
Calystegia macrostegia Morning-glory
* Convolvulus arvensis Field bindweed
Cuscuta californica Chaparral dodder, witch's hair
CRASSULACEAE STONECROP FAMILY
Dudleya lanceolata Lance-leaved dudleya
Dudleya pulverulenta Chalk dudleya
CUCURBITACEAE GOURD FAMILY, CUCUMBER FAMILY
Marah macrocarpa Chilicothe, wild cucumber
EUPHORBIACEAE SPURGE FAMILY
Euphorbia albomarginata Rattlesnake spurge
* Euphorbia maculata Spotted spurge
* Euphorbia peplus Petty spurge
* Ricinus communis Castor bean
FABACEAE LEGUME FAMILY, PEA FAMILY
* Acacia cyclops Coastal wattle
* Acacia redolens Bank catclaw
Acmispon glaber Deerweed
Acmispon maritimus Coastal lotus
Lupinus succulentus Arroyo lupine
* Medicago polymorpha California burclover
* Melilotus indicus Sourclover, India sweetclover
* Senna didymobotrya African wild cassia
FAGACEAE OAK FAMILY
Quercus agrifolia Coast live oak
Quercus berberidifolia Inland scrub oak
GERANIACEAE GERANIUM FAMILY
* Erodium brachycarpum White stemmed filaree
* Erodium cicutarium Redstem filaree
GROSSULARIACEAE GOOSEBERRY FAMILY, CURRANT FAMILY
Ribes speciosum Fuchsia-flowered gooseberry
LAMIACEAE MINT FAMILY
* Marrubium vulgare Horehound
Salvia apiana White sage
Salvia leucophylla Purple sage
Salvia mellifera Black sage
MALVACEAE MALLOW FAMILY
Malacothamnus fasciculatus Chaparral bush-mallow
* Malva nicaeensis Bull mallow
* Malva parviflora Cheeseweed
MONTIACEAE MINER'S LETTUCE FAMILY
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March 2024
Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
Claytonia perfoliata Miner's lettuce
MYOPORACEAE MYOPORUM FAMILY
* Myoporum laetum Myoporum
MYRINACEAE MYRSINE FAMILY
* Lysimachia arvensis Scarlet pimpernel
MYRTACEAE MYRTLE FAMILY, EUCALYPTUS FAMILY
* Eucalyptus sp. Ornamental eucalyptus
NYCTAGINACEAE FOUR O'CLOCK FAMILY
Mirabilis laevis Wishbone bush
OLEACEAE OLIVE FAMILY
* Fraxinus uhdei Shamel ash
OROBANCHACEAE BROOMRAPE FAMILY
Castilleja foliolosa Texas paintbrush
OXALIDACEAE OXALIS FAMILY
* Oxalis pes-caprae Bermuda buttercup
PAPAVERACEAE POPPY FAMILY
** Romneya coulteri Coulter's matilija poppy
PHRYMACEAE MONKEYFLOWER FAMILY
Diplacus aurantiacus Sticky monkeyflower
PITTOSPORACEAE AUSTRALIAN LAUREL FAMILY
* Pittosporum undulatum Victorian box
PLANTAGINACEAE PLANTAIN FAMILY
Antirrhinum nuttallianum Nuttall's snapdragon
Keckiella cordifolia Heart leaved keckiella
PLATANACEAE PLANE-TREE or SYCAMORE FAMILY
Platanus racemosa Western sycamore
POLYGALACEAE POLYGALA FAMILY
** Polygala cornuta var. fishiae Fish's milkwort
POLYGONACEAE BUCKWHEAT FAMILY
Eriogonum fasciculatum California buckwheat
* Rumex crispus Curly dock
RHAMNACEAE BUCKTHORN FAMILY
Ceanothus megacarpus Big pod ceanothus
Ceanothus spinosus Greenbark ceanothus
Rhamnus crocea Redberry
Rhamnus ilicifolia Evergreen buckthorn
ROSACEAE ROSE FAMILY
Heteromeles arbutifolia Toyon, Christmas berry
* Pyracantha sp. Ornamental pyracantha
RUBIACEAE MADDER FAMILY, COFFEE FAMILY
Galium aparine Goose grass, stickywilly
Galium nuttallii ssp. nuttallii Climbing bedstraw
SCROPHULARIACEAE BEE PLANT FAMILY
* Myoporum laetum Ngaio tree
Scrophularia californica California bee plant
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March 2024
Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
SOLANACEAE NIGHTSHADE FAMILY
Datura wrightii Jimsonweed, tolguacha
* Nicotiana glauca Tree tobacco
TROPAEOLACEAE TROPAELOUM FAMILY
* Tropaeolum majus Garden nasturtium
VALERIACEAE VALERIAN FAMILY
* Centranthus ruber Jupiter's beard
Monocotyledons
AGAVACEAE CENTURY PLANT FAMILY, AGAVE FAMILY
* Hesperoyucca whipplei Chaparral yucca
* Yucca sp. Unid. yucca
ARECACEAE PALM FAMILY
* Washingtonia robusta Mexican fan palm, ornamental fan palm
IRIDACEAE IRIS FAMILY
Sisyrinchium bellum California blue-eyed grass
LILIACEAE LILY FAMILY
Calochortus splendens Splendid mariposa
** Calochortus weedii var. intermedius Intermediate mariposa lily
MELANTHIACEAE BUNCHFLOWER FAMILY
Toxicoscordion fremontii Fremont's star lily
POACEAE GRASS FAMILY
* Avena barbata Slender wild oat
* Avena fatua Wild oat
* Brachypodium distachyon Purple false brome
* Bromus diandrus Ripgut brome
* Bromus rubens Red brome
* Cortaderia selloana Argentine pampas grass
* Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass
* Ehrharta erecta Panic veldt grass
Elymus condensatus Giant wild-rye
* Festuca myuros Rattail sixweeks grass
* Hordeum murinum Wall barley, hare barley
Melica imperfecta California melic grass
Muhlenbergia microsperma Littleseed muhly
* Pennisetum setaceum Crimson fountain grass, African fountain grass * Pennisetum villosum Feathertop
* Polypogon monspeliensis Annual beard grass
* Schismus barbatus Mediterranean schismus
* Stenotaphrum secundatum Saint augustine grass
* Stipa miliacea Smilo grass
Stipa lepida Foothill needle grass
THEMIDACEAE BRODIAEAE FAMILY
Dichelostemma capitatum Blue hyacinth
TYPHACEAE CATTAIL FAMILY
Typha domingensis (?) Cattail
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Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
INVERTEBRATE ANIMALS
HYMENOPTERA ANTS, BEES, AND WASPS
* Apis mellifera European honey bee
Bombus melanopygus Black-tailed bumblebee
VERTEBRATE ANIMALS
REPTILIA REPTILES
Sceloporus occidentalis Western fence lizard
Uta stansburiana Side-blotched lizard
AVES BIRDS
CATHARTIDAE VULTURES
Cathartes aura Turkey vulture
ACCIPITRIDAE HAWKS, EAGLES, HARRIERS
** Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk
Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk
FALCONIDAE FALCONS
Falco sparverius American kestrel
PHASIANIDAE GROUSE AND QUAIL
Callipepla californica California quail
COLUMBIDAE PIGEONS AND DOVES
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
APODIDAE SWIFTS
Aeronautes saxatalis White-throated swift
TROCHILIDAE HUMMINGBIRDS
Calypte anna Anna's hummingbird
Selasphorus sasin Allen's hummingbird
PICIDAE WOODPECKERS
Melanerpes formicivorus Acron woodpecker
Picoides nuttallii Nuttall's woodpecker
TYRANNIDAE TYRANT FLYCATCHERS
Empidonax difficilis Pacific-slope flycatcher
Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-throated flycatcher
Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe
Sayornis saya Say's phoebe
Tyrannus vociferans Cassin's kingbird
Tyrannus verticalis Western kingbird
HIRUNDINIDAE SWALLOWS
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota Cliff swallow
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern rough-winged swallow
CORVIDAE CROWS AND JAYS
Aphelocoma californica California scrub-jay
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow
Corvus corax Common raven
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Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
ODONTOPHORIDAE NEW WORLD QUAILS
Callipepla californica California quail
AEGITHALIDAE BUSHTITS
Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit
TROGLODYTIDAE WRENS
Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's wren
Troglodytes aedon House wren
PARIDAE TIT FAMILY
Baeolophus inornatus Oak titmouse
MUSCICAPIDAE THRUSHES AND ALLIES
Sialia mexicana Western bluebird
Chamaea fasciata Wrentit
MIMIDAE MOCKINGBIRDS AND THRASHERS
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
Toxostoma redivivum California thrasher
PTILIOGNATIDAE SILKY-FLYCATCHERS
Phainopepla nitens Phainopepla
STURNIDAE STARLINGS
* Sturnus vulgaris European starling
EMBERIZIDAE SPARROWS, WARBLERS, TANAGERS
Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped warbler
Pipilo maculatus Spotted towhee
Melozone crissalis California towhee
Melospiza melodia Song sparrow
Zonotrichia leucophrys White-crowned sparrow
Icterus bullockii Bullock's oriole
FRINGILLIDAE FINCHES
Haemorhous mexicanus House finch
Spinus psaltria Lesser goldfinch
PASSERIDAE WEAVERS
* Passer domesticus House sparrow
MAMMALIA MAMMALS
FELIDAE CAT FAMILY
Lynx rufus Bobcat
GEOMYIDAE POCKET GOPHERS AND ALLIES
Thomomys bottae Botta's pocket gopher
LEPORIDAE HARES AND RABBITS
Sylvilagus audubonii Desert cottontail
SCIURIDAE SQUIRRELS
Otospermophilus beecheyi Beechey (California) ground squirrel
CRICETIDAE RATS AND MICE
Neotoma fuscipes Dusky-footed wood rat
CANIDAE FOXES, WOLVES AND COYOTES
Canis latrans Coyote
PROCYONIDAE RACCOONS
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Attachment 4. Project Species List
Latin Name Common Name
Procyon lotor Raccoon
Notes:
Species introduced to California are indicated by an asterisk. Special-status species are indicated by two asterisks. This list includes only species observed on the site. Invertebrate species observed throughout the site were not included in this list with the exception of Crustaceans. Other species may have been overlooked or unidentifiable due to season (amphibians are active during rains, reptiles during summer, some birds and bats migrate out of the area for summer or winter, some mammals hibernate, many plants are identifiable only in spring). Plants were identified using keys, descriptions, and illustrations in Baldwin et al (2012). Plant taxonomy and nomenclature generally follow Baldwin et al. (2012). Wildlife taxonomy and nomenclature generally follow Stebbins (2003) for amphibians and reptiles, AOU (1998) for birds, and Wilson and Ruff (1999) for mammals. 173
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Attachment 5 – Project Photos
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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
PROPOSED FUEL MODIFICATION ZONES 16 AND 19 PROJECT
March 2024
Photo 1: Typical view of bigpod ceanothus chaparral observed on north-facing slopes within FMZ 16.
Photo 3: Typical view of California buckwheat scrub
observed on south-facing slopes within portions of FMZ 16.
Photo 2: Typical view of California sagebrush scrub – black sage scrub observed on an engineered slope within FMZ 19.
Photo 4: Close-up view of lemonade berry scrub observed in FMZ 19. 175
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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
PROPOSED FUEL MODIFICATION ZONES 16 AND 19 PROJECT
March 2024
Photo 5: Close-up view of lemonade berry scrub observed in FMZ 19, note the decumbent goldenbush in the foreground.
Photo 7: Typical view of fountain grass swards on south-facing slopes in FMZ 16.
Photo 6: Typical view of lemonade berry scrub observed in FMZ 19.
Photo 8: Typical view of an area mapped as ornamental vegetation and development within FMZ 19.
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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
PROPOSED FUEL MODIFICATION ZONES 16 AND 19 PROJECT
March 2024
Photo 9. Close-up view of big-leaved crownbeard growing among ornamental plants adjacent to residential development in FMZ 16.
Photo 11: Close-up view of intermediate mariposa lily observed within FMZ 19.
Photo 10. Close-up view of big-leaved crownbeard growing along Nyes Place within FMZ 16.
Photo 12: Seasonal stream in the bottom of Hobo Canyon within FMZ 16. 177
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Appendix A – Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones Subject to Coastal Development Permitting
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1 Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Development Permitting
The intent of this protocol is to define City procedures for achieving compliance with regulation of the California Coastal Commission, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (et. al.) regarding fuel modification in zones requiring a Coastal Development Permit.
Fuel Modification Zones (FMZ’s) are managed by the City of Laguna Beach under two different approaches;
a. Public Nuisance Abatement sites – Those legacy sites which have a history of long-term grazing disturbance. These sites and their associated management by goat grazing predates the adoption of the Coastal Act and has been judged by the State Attorney General as exempt from the act as a pre-existing condition. This generally refers to sites grazed by goats in FMZ’s 1-10. b. Coastal Development Permit sites- Those sites subject to the Coastal Act for which a Coastal Development Permit must be obtained for fuel modification. This treatment protocol guides fuel modification for these sites, which includes all zones currently maintained under Coastal Development Permits (FMZ’s 10-15), and all program expansion sites planned for future development.
Reduction of Fire Behavior Potential
The objective of any fuel modification treatment shall be to achieve at least an average 75% reduction in potential wildfire fire line intensity (energy release), as measured by lame length and rate of spread. In general, a 50% reduction of fuel loading, accomplished by the parameters of this protocol will achieve such a reduction. (Fuel Modification Impacts to Potential Fire Behavior- A Case Study for the City of Laguna Beach, Rohde, 2017, and Catastrophic Wildfire Assessment- City of Laguna Beach, Franklin, 2013).
Treatment Area Determination:
Fuel Modification treatments will generally be limited to those areas that are within 100 feet of developed properties or structures. Treatments outside of these areas will be limited to removal of targeted invasives, general non-natives weeds control, or tree thinning and dead branch removal. Fuel modification outside of the 100 foot zone shall be conducted with intent to minimize impacts to adjacent intact habitats, serve as partial on-site mitigation for fuel modification impacts when required, or for prevention of fire branding over the fuel break.
The primary methods for vegetation management shall consist of grazing or hand crew modification.
Other methods including mechanical mastication, prescribed burning, mass herbicide use, crushing, chaining, or other means of mechanical conversion have been generally eliminated from consideration for environmental, risk, or social/political concerns.
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2 Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Development Permitting
Geotechnical Findings:
Proposed FMZ’s shall be evaluated by a qualified geologist for geologic stability and flood/debris movement potential. Treatment within areas determined to be geologically unstable in the geotechnical report may be modified or eliminated. Unstable sites may include historic landslide or debris flow areas, unstable soil or rock structure, or similar sites.
Archeological/Paleontological Findings:
Proposed FMZ’s shall be evaluated for archeological and paleontological resources in accordance with CEQA requirements. Such evaluation requires solicitation of tribal interests, survey of data sources for known resources, and site survey. Areas determined to have a presence of identified archaeological and/or paleontological resources may require fuels treatment to be modified or eliminated.
Sensitive Species Protection:
For all Coastal Development Permit FMZ’s, a qualified biologist shall inspect proposed fuel modification sites for the presence of sensitive species prior to the initiation of work. If the presence of sensitive species are identified, a trained biological monitor shall be present at all times while work is conducted in the immediate vicinity of identified habitat to ensure no accidental takings occur, and sensitive species are protected. Crews conducting fuel modification work shall receive instruction and training in sensitive species management and avoidance prior to initiation of work.
Sensitive species include those identified in the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), the Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA), the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Natural Community Conservation Planning Act (NCCPA), California Penal Code Section 384a, or by Federal designation in the Endangered Species Act (F-ESA). Sensitive species shall not be disturbed by fuel modification activities.
Sensitive plant species of principal concern in Laguna Beach include:
1. Big-leaved Crownbeard (Verbesina dissita)
2. Intermediate Mariposa Lilly (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius)
3. Many-Stemmed Dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis)
4. Fish’s Milkwort (Polygala cornuta var. fishae)
5. Cliff Spurge (Euphorbia misera)
6. Catalina Mariposa Lily (Calochortus catalinae)
7. Coulter’s Matillija Poppy (Romneya coulteri)
8. Western Dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis)
9. Laguna Beach Life-forever (Dudleya stolonifera)
10. Many-stemmed Dudleya (Dudleya multicaulus)
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3 Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Development Permitting
Whenever sensitive plant species are identified, they will be protected by establishing a flagged, 15-foot buffer around all specimens of the sensitive species, inside of which no material shall be initially removed. Such presence and limits shall be effectively communicated to project contractors. Based upon the species identified, its ecology and phenology, hand removal of non-native vegetation within the 15 foot buffer may be initiated at the direction of the biological monitor, if it is determined to be ecologically beneficial for the identified species. For Big-Leaved Crownbeard (Verbesina dissita), the potential shading/nurse plant benefit of non-native shrubs would be considered before removing nonnative shrubs with such a determination to be made by the biological monitor.
To avoid impacts to nesting and migratory birds, including the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica), removal of vegetation should occur outside of nesting season (February 1 to August 31 in upland habitats) as much as is practicable. If work is conducted during nesting season, a qualified biologist will conduct a Nesting Bird Survey in the work area within 48 hours of the commencement of work. If any are found, a buffer zone will be flagged around the nesting site(s) in compliance with the biologist’s recommendations before work commences. Contractor personnel will be directed to check all vegetation for nests before cutting and to cease work in the area immediately if one is found, until a qualified biologist can assess it. If work ceases for more than two days, another nesting bird survey will be required before work can re-commence.
Grazing Treatment Protocols:
Goats will be used to implement grazed fuel modification treatment in areas of Low to Moderate Habitat Value as defined in the Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, (Marsh et. al 1983, `see Appendix). To determine habitat value for this purpose, Laguna Beach City GIS maps based on the above-referenced document will be initially referenced, and modified as necessary based on site visits by a qualified biologist to reflect current conditions. a. The fur and hooves of all goats will be cleaned of seeds and debris before arriving at the treatment area and when being moved between enclosures to prevent the spread of invasive plant species. b. No more than 75 goats will be permitted per acre.
c. Goats shall remain in secure enclosures at all times. d. Sensitive plant species shall be protected from trampling or consumption by establishing the secure enclosures a minimum distance of at least 15 feet between sensitive plants and the limits of grazing.
e. Grazing animals shall be moved periodically to ensure enough vegetative cover remains to promote erosion control, inhibit dust, and preserve view aesthetics. f. Goat grazing shall be preferred for removal of nonnatives, or native herbaceous species. Up to 80% of the native and 100% of the non-native species in this cover type may be removed in such areas.
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4 Treatment Protocols for Fuel Modification Zones
Subject to Coastal Development Permitting
g. Goat grazing in woody (Coastal Marine Chaparral) or woody-herbaceous (Coastal Sage Scrub) chaparral species shall be limited to removal of 50% of the vegetative cover, and, and provide for a shaded fuel break outcome.
h. Goat grazed fuel breaks should generally be limited to 100 foot width. Penned areas may be extended to a maximum 150 feet when physical obstructions such as rock outcrops, cliffs, water courses etc. prevent reasonable establishment of pens at 100 foot width. i. Goats shall be used for brush reduction only and shall be immediately removed when the brush clearance has been accomplished.
j. A targeted invasive control plan will be implemented in all future goat-grazed areas to prevent invasive species from propagating and impacting adjacent intact habitat. k. Where practicable and environmentally appropriate, goat grazing may be used as the maintenance method for areas which required initial clearance by hand crews.
Hand Crew Treatment Protocols:
Hand crews will be used to implement fuel modification in areas of High or Very High Habitat Value as defined in the Laguna Beach Biological Resources Inventory, (Marsh et. al 1983, see Appendix). To determine habitat value for this purpose, Laguna Beach City GIS maps based on the above-referenced document will be initially referenced, and modified as necessary based on site visits by a qualified biologist to reflect current conditions.
The initial phase of vegetation removal shall include the following steps:
a. Fuel Modification will be conducted by hand crews with chainsaws, brush-cutters and other hand tools.
b. Hand crew fuel modification conducted in high or very high value habitat shall generally be limited to a width of 100 feet.
c. Crews will cut down all non-native vegetation (including unmaintained ornamental vegetation) and dead/dying native vegetation and carefully remove dead branches from trees and large shrubs. As noted above, an exception may be made where non-native shrubs are providing shading/nurse plant benefits for Big-Leaved Crownbeard, as determined by the biological monitor. d. Special care will be exercised to distinguish dormant native vegetation from dead/dying native vegetation.
e. Tree-form shrubs (e.g. Laurel Sumac (Malosma laurina), Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia)) that are over 6 feet tall will be carefully pruned of their lower branches to increase the Crown Base Height to 50% of the plant height. For example, a 10-foottall plant would have its lower branches removed to a height of 5 feet. Branches will be pruned to within 1 inch or less of the branch crown. Southern Maritime Chaparral shrub species shall be left fully intact except as noted below, and not pruned initially. f. For large tree species within FMZ’s, non-native trees (Pinus, Eucalyptus, Washingtonia, et. al.) shall be considered for removal on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration their potential ignitability, potential to spread fire from or across the FMZ, and property/tree ownership. Native A-4 182
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