Agenda packet — Porterville City Council, May 6, 2025 (part 2 of 5)

RESOLUTION NO. -2025

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORTERVILLE ADOPTING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION (SCH NO. 2025030736) FOR THE DELLA FARMS RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (PRC 2024-017)
WHEREAS: Drew Della (Applicant) has submitted to the City of Porterville the Della Farms Residential Development Project (Project), consisting of a Tentative Subdivision Map and related entitlements to accommodate the subdivision of approximately 25.47 acres into 160 lots. The site is located at the southwest corner of Morton Avenue and Leggett Street (APN 253-080-027 and 253-080-028; Site); and WHEREAS: the Project also includes construction of interior streets, landscaping, public utilities, and improvements of streets within or adjacent to the subdivision, dedication of segments of abutting rights-of-way, and a neighborhood park; and WHEREAS: the aforementioned activities, individually and collectively, constitute a “project” pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, Public Resources Code Section 21000, et seq. (“CEQA”) and the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations Title 14, Chapter 3, Section 15000, et seq.; and WHEREAS: the City has prepared an Initial Study pursuant to the provisions of CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines; and
WHEREAS: the Initial Study indicated the potential for significant effects in the resource areas of Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Geology and Soils, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Transportation, and Tribal Cultural Resources; and WHEREAS: the Initial Study concluded that with implementation of mitigation measures, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Project can be mitigated to a less-than-significant level, and that adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration would be appropriate; and
WHEREAS: pursuant to Government Code Section 65352.3, on or about October 4, 2024, the City conducted consultations for the Project with the California Native American Tribes from the list provided and maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission and received no response therefrom; and
WHEREAS: pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.3.1, on or about October 4, 2024, the City conducted consultations for the Project with the California Native American Tribes from the list provided and maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission and received no response therefrom; and WHEREAS: on March 7, 2025 a Notice of Intent to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration was published in The Porterville Recorder and was filed with the Tulare County Clerk and the State Clearinghouse and posted at City Hall and on the City’s Resolution No. _____-2025

Page 2 of 3 ends

website, said notice identifying a public review and comment period of 30 days starting on March 7, 2025 and ending on April 7, 2025; and
WHEREAS: on March 14, 2025 a Notice of Intent to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration was filed with the Tulare County Clerk, said notice identifying a public review and comment period of 30 days starting on March 18, 2025, and ending on April 16, 2025; and
WHEREAS: the Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) was filed with the State Clearinghouse, assigned a State Clearinghouse number (2025030736), and circulated for a period of 30 days starting on March 18, 2025, and ending on April 16, 2025; and
WHEREAS: on April 25, 2025, a notice was published in The Porterville Recorder setting the date, time and place of pubic hearing for May 6, 2025 and similar notices were sent to owners of property within a 300-foot radius surrounding the Site and posted at City Hall and the City’s website announcing the same; and WHEREAS: on April 25, 2025, it was discovered that the Williamson Act Contract was incorrectly stated to be cancelled in the environmental document, but was corrected; and
WHEREAS: on April 25, 2025, a decision was made by the Environmental Coordinator that, under CEQA Guidelines Section 15073.5, the environmental document would not need to be recirculated as the minor change to the document did not constitute a substantial revision as no significant effect, mitigation measure, or project revision resulted from the change.

WHEREAS: at a regular meeting on May 6, 2025, the City Council of the City of Porterville did conduct a public hearing to consider the Project; and WHEREAS: the City Council has received the IS/MND and has reviewed and considered the information contained therein; and
WHEREAS: the City Council has considered public testimony received during the public hearing; and
WHEREAS: the City Council finds that the IS/MND has been completed in compliance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines; and
WHEREAS: the determinations in the IS/MND consist of the City Council’s independent judgement and analysis; and
WHEREAS: based upon the IS/MND and the record, with incorporation of mitigation, the Project will not individually or cumulatively have an adverse impact on environmental resources; and
Resolution No. _____-2025

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WHEREAS: the City of Porterville is the custodian of the documents and other materials that constitute the record of the proceedings on which these determinations are based, and Porterville City Hall, 291 N. Main Street, Porterville, CA is the location of this record.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Porterville does hereby adopt the IS/MND prepared for the Della Farms Residential Development Project.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program attached hereto shall be implemented as noted therein as part of project implementation.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Interim City Manager shall cause a Notice of Determination to be filed in accordance with CEQA within five business days following project approval.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 6th of May, 2025.
______________________
Greg Meister, Mayor
ATTEST:

Jason Ridenour, Interim City Clerk
By: ________________________________
Fernando Gabriel-Moraga,
Acting Chief Deputy City Clerk
1 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM

FOR DELLA FARMS RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION
April 2025
This mitigation measure monitoring and reporting checklist was prepared pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15097 and Section 21081.6 of the Public Resources Code (PRC). The timing of implementing each mitigation measure is identified in in the checklist, as well as identifies the entity responsible for verifying that the mitigation measures applied to a Project are performed. Project applicants are responsible for providing evidence that mitigation measures are implemented. As lead agency, the City of Porterville is responsible for verifying that mitigation is performed/completed.

Mitigation Measures
Responsible for
Implementation Timing of
Verification
Responsible for
Verification
Verification of
Completion
Date Initials
Biological Resources
Mitigation Measure BIO-1: If Project activities must occur during the nesting season (February 1 to September 15), preactivity nesting bird surveys shall be conducted within seven (7) days prior to the start of construction on the construction site and a 500-foot buffer for raptors.

1. If no active nests are found, no further action is required.

However, existing nests may become active, and new
nests may be built at any time prior to and throughout
the nesting season, including when construction
activities are in progress.

2. If active nests are found during the survey or at any time during construction of the Project, an avoidance buffer ranging from 50 feet to 500 feet may be required, with
the avoidance buffer from any specific nest being
determined by a qualified biologist. The avoidance
buffer will remain in place until the biologist has
determined that the young are no longer reliant on
Project
proponent
Prior to
construction
City of
Porterville
Building Division
2 adults or the nest. Work may occur within the avoidance buffer under the approval and guidance of the biologist, but full-time monitoring may be required. The biologist shall have the ability to stop construction if nesting
adults show any sign of distress.

Mitigation Measure BIO-2: A qualified biologist knowledgeable of the species should conduct a Swainson’s hawk survey of the Project Site and the surrounding 0.5-mile-radius area, in substantial compliance with the “Recommended Timing and Methodology for Swainson’s Hawk Nesting Surveys in
California’s Central Valley” (Swainson’s Hawk Technical Advisory Committee 2000) during the normal bird breeding season (1 February through 15 September) prior to the start of any initial ground-disturbing activity or construction associated with each phase of project implementation, to the extent feasible.

Additional pre-construction Swainson’s hawk surveys should take place no more than 10 days prior to the start of grounddisturbing activities.

Project
proponent
Prior to any
ground
disturbance or
construction
activity
City of
Porterville
Building Division
3  If the project(s) is located within 5 miles of an active nest tree but greater than 1 mile from the nest tree, the
applicant should provide a minimum of 0.75 acres of HM
lands for each 1 acre of urban development authorized.
 If the project(s) is located within 10 miles of an active nest tree but greater than 5 miles from the nest tree, the
applicant should provide a minimum of 0.5 acres of HM
lands for each 1 acre of urban development authorized.

Suitable agricultural easements would include areas limited to production of crops such as alfalfa, dry land and irrigated pasture, and cereal grain crops. Vineyards, orchards, cotton fields, and other dense vegetation do not provide adequate foraging habitat.

Cultural Resources
Mitigation Measure CUL-1: Prior to permit approval for
development on sites with existing buildings and/or structures that are 45 years or older, a historical resources evaluation shall be completed for that individual site to confirm if the existing buildings and/or structures within these sites qualify as historical resources as defined by Section 15064.5(a) of CEQA Guidelines. The evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified Project
proponent
Prior to
Approval of a
Construction
Permit
City of
Porterville
Building Division
4 architectural historian or historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in architectural history or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive-level evaluation in accordance with the guidelines and best practices
promulgated by the State Office of Historic Preservation to identify any potential historical resources within the proposed project area. All properties 45 years of age or older shall be evaluated within their historic context and documented in a report meeting the State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines. All evaluated properties shall be documented on Department of Parks and Recreation Series 523 Forms. The report shall be submitted to the City for review and
concurrence.

Any relocation, rehabilitation, or alteration of the resource shall be implemented consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatments of Historic Properties (Standards). In accordance with CEQA, a project that has been determined to conform with the Standards generally would not cause a significant adverse direct or indirect impact to historical resources (14 CCR Section 15126.4[b][1]). Application of the Standards shall be overseen by a qualified architectural historian or historic architect meeting the PQS. In conjunction with any development application that may affect the historical resource, a report identifying and specifying the treatment of character-defining features and construction activities shall be provided to the City for review and concurrence, in addition to the historical resources evaluation.
5 If significant historical resources are identified on a development site and compliance with the Standards and or avoidance is not feasible, the applicant or developer shall provide a report explaining why compliance with the Standards and or avoidance is not feasible for the ity’s review and approval. Site-specific mitigation measures shall be established and undertaken, including, but not limited to, documentation of the historical resource in the form of a Historic American Buildings Survey-Like report. The report shall be commissioned by the project applicant or their consultant to comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Architectural and Engineering Documentation and shall generally follow the Historic American Buildings Survey Level III requirements, including digital photographic recordation, detailed historic narrative report, and compilation of historic research. The documentation shall be completed by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the PQS and submitted to the City prior to issuance of any permits for demolition or alteration of the historical resource.

Project
proponent
Prior to
issuance of a
construction
permit
City of
Porterville
Building Division
6 b. Stop Work Near any Discovered Cultural Resources. Should previously unidentified cultural resources be discovered during construction of the Project, the Project proponent shall cease work within 50 feet of the resources, and City of Porterville shall be notified immediately. The Project archaeologist meeting the Secretary of the Interior Professional Qualifications Standards for archeology shall immediately to evaluate the find pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.2.
c. Mitigation for Discovered Cultural Resources. If the professional archaeologist determines that any cultural resources exposed during construction constitute a historical resource and/or unique archaeological resource, he/she shall notify the Project proponent and other appropriate parties of the evaluation and recommended mitigation measures to
mitigate the impact to a less-than-significant level. If the archaeologist and, if applicable, a Native American monitor or other interested tribal representative determine it is
appropriate, cultural materials collected from the site shall be processed and analyzed in a laboratory according to standard archaeological procedures. The age of the materials shall be determined using radiocarbon dating and/or other appropriate procedures; lithic artifacts, faunal remains, and other cultural materials shall be identified and analyzed according to current professional standards. The significance of the site(s) shall be evaluated according to the criteria of the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR) and if applicable, National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The results of the investigations shall be presented in a technical report following the standards of the California Office of Historic Preservation publication 7 “Archaeological Resource Management Reports:

Recommended Content and Format (1990 or latest edition).” Mitigation measures may include avoidance, preservation in- place, recordation, additional archaeological testing and data recovery, among other options. Treatment of any significant cultural resources shall be undertaken with the approval of the City of Porterville. The archaeologist shall document the resources using DPR 523 forms and file said forms with the California Historical Resources Information System, Southern San Joaquin Valley Information Center (SSJVIC). The resources shall be photo documented and collected by the archaeologist for submittal to the City of Porterville. The archaeologist shall be required to submit to the City of Porterville for review and approval a report of the findings and method of curation or protection of the resources. This report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC after completion. Recommendations contained
therein shall be implemented throughout the remainder of ground disturbance activities. Further grading or site work within the area of discovery shall not be allowed until the preceding steps have been taken.
d. Data Recovery. Should the results of item c. yield resources that meet CRHR significance standards and if the resource cannot be avoided by Project construction, the Project
applicant shall ensure that all feasible recommendations for mitigation of archaeological impacts are incorporated into the final design and approved by the City prior to construction. Any necessary data recovery excavation, conducted to exhaust the data potential of significant archaeological sites, shall be carried out by a qualified archaeologist meeting the SOI’s PQS for 8 archeology. Data recovery shall be conducted in accordance with a research design reviewed and approved by the City, prepared in advance of fieldwork, and using the appropriate archaeological field and laboratory methods consistent with the California Office of Historic Preservation Planning Bulletin 5, Guidelines for Archaeological Research Design, or the latest edition thereof. If the archaeological resource(s) of concern are Native American in origin, the qualified archaeologist shall confer with the City and local California Native American tribe(s). As applicable, the final Data Recovery reports shall be submitted to the City prior to issuance of any grading or construction permit. Recommendations contained therein shall be implemented throughout all ground disturbance activities.

Recommendations may include, but would not be limited to, Cultural Resources Monitoring, and/or measures for
unanticipated discoveries. The final report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC upon completion.
e. Disposition of Cultural Resources. Upon coordination with the City of Porterville, any pre-historic archaeological artifacts recovered shall be donated to an appropriate Tribal custodian or a qualified scientific institution where they would be afforded applicable cultural resources laws and guidelines. f. Cultural Resources Monitoring. If mitigation measures are recommended by reports written under item c. or d., the Project applicant shall retain a qualified archaeologist to monitor Project-related, ground-disturbing activities which may include the following but not limited to: grubbing, vegetation removal, trenching, grading, and/or excavations.

The archaeological monitor shall coordinate with any Native 9 American monitor as required. Monitoring logs must be completed by the archaeologist daily. Cultural resources monitoring may be reduced for the Project if the qualified archaeologist finds it appropriate to reduce the monitoring efforts. Upon completion of ground disturbance for the Project, a final report must be submitted to the City for review and approval documenting the monitoring efforts, cultural
resources find, and resource disposition. The final report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC.

Geology and Soils
Mitigation Measure GEO-1: Subsequent to a preliminary City review of the project grading plans, a soils report, inclusive of information on expansive soils, shall be conducted. The following procedures shall be followed:
• If expansive soils are not found, excavation and/or
construction activities can commence.If there is
evidence that the Project Site includes expansive soils, foundations for buildings and structures founded on
expansive soils shall be designed in accordance with
IBC Section 1808.6.1 or 1808.6.2 unless 1) the
expansive soil is removed in accordance with Section
1808.6.3 or 2) the building official approves
stabilization of the soil in accordance with Section
1808.6.4.

Project
proponent
Prior to ground
disturbance
activities
City of
Porterville
Building Division
Mitigation Measure GEO-2:If any paleontological resources are encountered during ground-disturbance activities, all work within 25 feet of the find shall halt until a qualified paleontologist as defined by the Society of Vertebrate
Project
proponent
During ground
disturbance
activities
City of
Porterville
Building Division
10 Paleontology Standard Procedures for the Assessment and Mitigation of Adverse Impacts to Paleontological Resources (2010), can evaluate the find and make recommendations
regarding treatment. Paleontological resource materials may include resources such as fossils, plant impressions, or animal tracks preserved in rock. The qualified paleontologist shall contact the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County or another appropriate facility regarding any discoveries of paleontological resources.

If the qualified paleontologist determines that the discovery represents a potentially significant paleontological resource, additional investigations, and fossil recovery may be required to mitigate adverse impacts from Project implementation. If avoidance is not feasible, the paleontological resources shall be evaluated for their significance. If the resources are not significant, avoidance is not necessary. If the resources are significant, they shall be avoided to ensure no adverse effects or such effects must be mitigated. Construction in that area shall not resume until the resource-appropriate measures are recommended or the materials are determined to be less than significant. If the resource is significant and fossil recovery is the identified form of treatment, then the fossil shall be deposited in an accredited and permanent scientific institution. Copies of all correspondence and reports shall be submitted to the City of Porterville.

Hazards and Hazardous Material
Mitigation Measure HAZ-1: Asbestos Survey. Prior to the demolition or renovation of any existing structure on site, an Asbestos Survey shall be conducted to determine the quantity Project
proponent
Prior to
demolition or
renovation of
City of
Porterville
Building Division
11 of asbestos-containing construction material to be removed in the Project. As regulated by National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), the inspection must be conducted by a Cal-OSHA Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC).

The Asbestos Survey report shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Building Division for review and approval.

Alternatively, if the developer is opting to treat all of the material as RACM and will notify as such, the survey may be bypassed.

A completed and signed Asbestos Notification Form must be submitted to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) 10 working days prior to the commencement of any regulated asbestos (RACM) abatement. If it is
determined that there are asbestos-containing materials or soils on site, the developer shall utilize specialists/professionals for asbestos removal/abatement to reduce potential health risks to construction workers. Demolition activities that would expose construction workers and/or the public to asbestos- containing materials shall be conducted in accordance with the applicable regulations, including, but not limited to: • San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District • California Health and Safety Code (Section 39650 et seq.)
• California Code of Regulations (Title 8, Section 1529) • California Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations (California Code of
Regulations, Title 8, Section 1529 [Asbestos] and
Section 1532.1 [Lead])
structures on
site
12 • Code of Federal Regulations (Title 40, Part 61
[asbestos], Title 40, Part 763 [asbestos], and Title 29, Part 1926 [asbestos and lead])
Mitigation Measure HAZ-2: Lead-Based Paint Inspection. Prior to the demolition of any existing structure on site, a lead-based paint inspection is required to determine whether the leadbased paint is present in or on the original building materials.

The inspection shall be conducted on-site by a state-certified Lead Inspector or Assessor in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 1532.1. The investigation report shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Building Division for review and approval.

If it is determined that lead-based paint exists on site, the developer shall utilize professionals for lead-based paint removal to reduce potential health risks to construction workers and/or the public. Pursuant Section 1532.1,
construction workers must establish and implement a
compliance program, and provide a written Pre-Job Notification to the nearest Division of Occupational Safety and Health Cal/OSHA office 24 hours before the start of a project.

Project
proponent
Prior to
demolition of
structures on
site
City of
Porterville
Building Division
Mitigation Measure HAZ-3: Test for Agricultural Pesticides. Prior to construction activities onsite, a limited Phase II investigation shall be conducted to assess the surface soil of the Project ite for residual organochlorine and lead arsenate pesticides. The Phase II investigation shall be conducted in accordance with guidelines developed by the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for site assessments. The Phase II investigation shall estimate the Project
proponent
Prior to ground
disturbing
activities
City of
Porterville
Building Division
13 potential threat to public health and the environment if concentrations of pesticides are encountered using methods outlined in DTSC’s Preliminary Endangerment Assessment
Guidance Manual and DTSC’s Screening Level Human Health Risk Assessment guidance for implementing screening level risk analysis. The Phase II investigation shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Building Division for review and approval by an independent third-party reviewer. If the Phase II testing reveals concentrations of organochlorine pesticides and lead arsenic above health-based screening levels for residential exposure, remediation of the site shall be required to address residual organochlorine and lead arsenate pesticides above health-based level of concern. Remediation may include
excavation and disposal of impacted soil or capping elevated areas beneath paved areas. The Construction Contractor shall implement the recommendations outlined in the Phase II.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-4: Halt Construction if Previously Unknown Potential Hazards are Encountered. All surface or subsurface construction activities shall immediately cease in the event that previously unknown potentially hazardous materials are encountered. Construction Contractors shall follow all applicable local, state, and federal regulations regarding discovery, response, disposal, removal, and
remediation for hazardous materials encountered during the construction process.

Project
proponent
During ground
disturbance
activities
City of
Porterville
Building Division
Transportation
Mitigation Measure TRA-1: The project developer shall, as a condition of approval of the project, provide pedestrian Project
proponent
Prior to
issuance of
City of
Porterville
Building Division
14 improvements along Morton Avenue, Henry Street, and Leggett Street with a minimum total construction cost of $30,160. certificate of
occupancy
Tribal Cultural Resources
See Cultural Resources
Della Farms Subdivision (City of Porterville, CA)
(Annexation (ANX) 2025-001, General Plan Amendment (GPA) 2025-001, Conditional Use Permit (CUP) PRC 2024-017-C, and Tentative Subdivision Map (TSM) 2025-001)
INITIAL STUDY – MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION

PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT
March 2025
Revised April 2025
Prepared for:

City of Porterville
291 N Main Street
Porterville, CA 93257

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 2 NOTE TO READER:

This Initial Study/MND was originally circulated from March 18, 2025, to April 16, 2025. Since the Initial Study/MND was circulated, minor changes to the document have been made as summarized below. Recirculation is not required pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15073.5 as this is not considered a “substantial revision,” no new, avoidable significant effect is identified where mitigation measures or project revisions must be made to reduce the effect of insignificance. Revisions are shown in red underlined text in the following section. • Cover Page: The conditional use permit record number has been added. • Chapter 2: The conditional use permit record number has been added to Section 2.1 Project Title and Section 2.9 Description of Project.
• Section 4.2 AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES: The Environmental Setting and Impact Assessment concerning the Williamson Act has been edited for clarity to: 1) explicitly state that the Project site is under a Williamson Act contract within the County, and 2) explain its conformance with California Government Code Section 51243.5. Impacts would remain less than significant. • Appendix 7.6. Phase I Environmental Site Assessment: A note was added to indicate that the Williamson Act Contract referenced under Tulare county Resource Management Agency is valid. Protest of the Williamson Act Contract was approved but will not be terminated until the annexation is approved by LAFCO.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 3

Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................... 9

1.1 Regulatory Information................................................................................................................. 9

1.2 Document Format......................................................................................................................... 9 2 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM.................................................................................................. 11

2.1 Project Title................................................................................................................................. 11

2.2 Lead Agency Name and Address................................................................................................. 11

2.3 Contact Person and Phone Number ........................................................................................... 11

2.4 Study Prepared By....................................................................................................................... 11

2.5 Project Location .......................................................................................................................... 11

2.6 Latitude and Longitude ............................................................................................................... 11

2.7 General Plan Designation............................................................................................................ 14

2.8 Zoning ......................................................................................................................................... 14

2.9 Description of Project ................................................................................................................. 17

2.10 Project Setting and Surrounding Land Uses................................................................................ 20

2.11 Site Preparation .......................................................................................................................... 20

2.12 Project Construction and Phasing............................................................................................... 20

2.13 Required Project Approvals ........................................................................................................ 22

2.14 Consultation with California Native American Tribes.................................................................. 22 3 DETERMINATION................................................................................................................................ 24

3.1 Environmental Factors Potentially Affected ............................................................................... 24

3.2 Determination............................................................................................................................. 24 4 EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS .................................................................................... 26

4.1 AESTHETICS................................................................................................................................. 26

4.1.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 26

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4.1.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 27

4.1.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 29

4.2 AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES ................................................................................ 30

4.2.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 30

4.2.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 33

4.2.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 34

4.3 AIR QUALITY................................................................................................................................ 35

4.3.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 35

4.3.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 40

4.3.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 42

4.4 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES............................................................................................................. 43

4.4.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 44

4.4.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 52

4.4.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 55

4.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................................... 56

4.5.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 56

4.5.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 58

4.5.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 61

4.6 ENERGY ....................................................................................................................................... 62

4.6.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 62

4.6.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 63

4.6.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 65

4.7 GEOLOGY AND SOILS .................................................................................................................. 66

4.7.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 67

4.7.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 69

4.7.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 72

4.8 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ................................................................................................... 73

4.8.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 73

4.8.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 75

4.8.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 78

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4.9 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIAL ...................................................................................... 79

4.9.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 79

4.9.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 84

4.9.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 87

4.10 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY ............................................................................................ 88

4.10.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 89

4.10.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 90

4.10.3 Mitigation Measures........................................................................................................... 95

4.11 LAND USE PLANNING.................................................................................................................. 97

4.11.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................ 97

4.11.2 Impact Assessment............................................................................................................. 97

4.11.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 100

4.12 MINERAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................................... 101

4.12.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 101

4.12.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 102

4.12.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 102

4.13 NOISE ........................................................................................................................................ 103

4.13.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 103

4.13.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 106

4.13.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 109

4.14 POPULATION AND HOUSING .................................................................................................... 110

4.14.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 110

4.14.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 111

4.14.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 111

4.15 PUBLIC SERVICES....................................................................................................................... 112

4.15.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 112

4.15.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 114

4.15.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 116

4.16 RECREATION ............................................................................................................................. 117

4.16.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 117

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4.16.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 117

4.16.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 118

4.17 TRANSPORTATION .................................................................................................................... 119

4.17.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 119

4.17.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 123

4.17.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 125

4.18 TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES ................................................................................................. 126

4.18.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 126

4.18.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 126

4.18.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 127

4.19 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS.............................................................................................. 128

4.19.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 128

4.19.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 129

4.19.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 133

4.20 WILDFIRE................................................................................................................................... 134

4.20.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................................... 134

4.20.2 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 134

4.20.3 Mitigation Measures......................................................................................................... 135

4.21 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE ............................................................................... 136

4.21.1 Impact Assessment........................................................................................................... 136 5 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM................................................................. 138 6 REPORT PREPARATION..................................................................................................................... 150 7 APPENDICES ..................................................................................................................................... 151

7.1 Appendix A: CalEEMod Results................................................................................................. 151

7.2 Appendix B: CNDDB Occurrence Report................................................................................... 152

7.3 Appendix C: Biological Resource Assessment ........................................................................... 153

7.4 Appendix D: CHRIS Search Results............................................................................................ 154

7.5 Appendix E: NAHC Letter .......................................................................................................... 155

7.6 Appendix F: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment................................................................ 156

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 7 Figures
Figure 2-1 Della Farms Subdivision Project Location ............................................................................................... 12 Figure 2-2 Della Farms Subdivision Project Aerial.................................................................................................... 13 Figure 2-3 General Plan Land Use Designation Map (Existing) ................................................................................ 15 Figure 2-4 Zoning District Map (Existing) ................................................................................................................. 16 Figure 2-5 General Plan Land Use Designation Map (Proposed) ............................................................................. 18 Figure 2-6 Tentative Subdivision Map...................................................................................................................... 19 Figure 2-7 Phasing Map ........................................................................................................................................... 21 Figure 4-1 Farmland Type ........................................................................................................................................ 32 Figure 4-2 WATERS GeoViewer – Surface Waters ................................................................................................... 49 Figure 4-3 CNDDB Occurrences within 5-miles of the Project Site .......................................................................... 50 Figure 4-4 Flood Zone Map...................................................................................................................................... 96 Figure 4-5 Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments............................................................... 104 Tables
Table 2-1 Existing Uses, General Plan Designations, and Zoning Districts of Surrounding Properties..................... 20 Table 4-1 SJVAPCD Recommended Air Quality Thresholds of Significance2F.......................................................... 38 Table 4-2 SPAL Thresholds for Residential Projects................................................................................................. 40 Table 4-3 Construction Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants, Unmitigated ............................................................... 41 Table 4-4 Operational Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants, Unmitigated................................................................. 41 Table 4-5 Special-Status Species Occurrences within 5-mile radius of Project Site ................................................. 45 Table 4-6 Summary of Special Status Species, Potential Occurrence, and Impact................................................... 47 Table 4-7 Project Energy Consumption.................................................................................................................... 63 Table 4-8 Scoping Plan Priority GHG Reduction Strategies Consistency Analysis .................................................... 76 Table 4-9 - City of Porterville Existing and Projected Potable Water Demands by Use Type, 2020 - 2040.............. 91 Table 4-10 Della Farms Residential Subdivision Projected Water Demand ............................................................. 92 Table 4-11 Discussion on Land Use Policies in the General Plan for Residential Development............................... 99 Table 4-12 Exterior Noise Level Standards, dBA .................................................................................................... 105 Table 4-13 Receptors and Baseline Analyzed in the RCNM ................................................................................... 107 Table 4-14 Guideline Vibration Annoyance Potential Criteria ............................................................................... 108

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 8 Table 4-15 Guideline Vibration Damage Potential Threshold Criteria ................................................................... 108 Table 4-16 Typical Vibration Levels During Construction....................................................................................... 108

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 9 1 INTRODUCTION
Precision Civil Engineering, Inc. (PCE) has prepared this Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) on behalf of the City of Porterville (City) to address the environmental effects of the proposed Della Farms Residential Subdivision (“Project” or “proposed Project”). This document has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Public Resources Code Section 21000, et. seq. The City of Porterville is the Lead Agency for this proposed Project. The site and the proposed Project are described in detail in SECTION 2 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM.

1.1 Regulatory Information
An Initial Study (IS) is a document prepared by a lead agency to determine whether a project may have a significant effect on the environment. In accordance with California Code of Regulations Title 14,Chapter 3, Section 15000, et seq., also known as the CEQA Guidelines, Section 15064 (a)(1) states that an environmental impact report (EIR) must be prepared if there is substantial evidence in light of the whole record that the proposed project under review may have a significant effect on the environment and should be further analyzed to determine mitigation measures or project alternatives that might avoid or reduce project impacts to less than significant levels.

A negative declaration (ND) may be prepared instead if the lead agency finds that there is no substantial evidence in light of the whole record that the project may have a significant effect on the environment. An ND is a written statement describing the reasons why a proposed project, not otherwise exempt from CEQA, would not have a significant effect on the environment and, therefore, why it would not require the preparation of an EIR (CEQA Guidelines Section 15371). According to CEQA Guidelines Section 15070, a ND or mitigated ND shall be prepared for a project subject to CEQA when either:
a. The IS shows there is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record before the agency, that the proposed project may have a significant effect on the environment, or b. The IS identified potentially significant effects, but:

1. Revisions in the project plans or proposals made by or agreed to by the applicant before the proposed mitigated negative declaration and initial study are released for public review would avoid the effects or mitigate the effects to a point where clearly no significant effects would occur is prepared, and

2. There is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record before the agency, that the proposed project as revised may have a significant effect on the environment.

1.2 Document Format
This IS/MND contains five (5) sections plus appendices. SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION provides the basis of the IS/MND’s regulatory information and an overview of the Project. SECTION 2 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM provides a detailed description of Project components. SECTION 3 DETERMINATION concludes that based on the Initial Study, a mitigated negative declaration will be prepared, identifies the environmental factors potentially affected based on the analyses contained in this IS, and includes with the Lead Agency’s determination based upon those analyses. SECTION 4 EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS presents the CEQA checklist and environmental analyses for all impact areas and the mandatory findings of significance. A brief discussion of the reasons why the Project impact is anticipated to be potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation incorporated, less than significant, or why no impacts are expected is included. SECTION 5 MITIGATION

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 10 MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM presents the mitigation measures recommended in the IS/MND for the Project. The CalEEMod Results (Appendix A), CNDDB Occurrence Report (Appendix B), Biological Resource Assessment (Appendix C), CHRIS Search Record (Appendix D), NAHC SLF Results Letter (Appendix E), and Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (Appendix F) are provided at the end of this document.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 11 2 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM
This section describes the components of the proposed Project in more detail, including Project location, Project objectives, and required Project approvals.

2.1 Project Title
Della Farms Residential Subdivision (Annexation (ANX) 2025-001, General Plan Amendment (GPA) 2025-001, Conditional Use Permit (CUP) PRC 2024-017-C 2025-00X, and Tentative Subdivision Map (TSM) 2025-001)

2.2 Lead Agency Name and Address
City of Porterville
291 N. Main Street
Porterville, CA 93257

2.3 Contact Person and Phone Number
Lead Agency
City of Porterville
Community Development Department
Claudia Calderon, Director
(559) 782-7460
Applicant
Drew Della (Della Farms)
18435 Road 248
Porterville, CA 93257
[email protected]

2.4 Study Prepared By
Precision Civil Engineering
1234 O Street
Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 449-4500

2.5 Project Location
The Project Site is an unincorporated county island surrounded by the City of Porterville, in the County of Tulare, California. The area is located on the south side of East Morton Avenue between North Leggett Street and North Henry Street (Figure 2-1), consisting of two (2) parcels that total approximately 25.47 acres (Figure 2-2). The area is identified by the Tulare County Assessor as Assessor’s Parcel Numbers(APNs) 253-080-027 and 253-080-028. The site is a portion of Section 25, Township 21 South, Range 27 East, Mount Diablo Base and Meridian.

2.6 Latitude and Longitude
The centroid of the Project Area is 36.071749, -119.001953.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 12 Figure 2-1 Della Farms Subdivision Project Location

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 13 Figure 2-2 Della Farms Subdivision Project Aerial

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2.7 General Plan Designation
The City of Porterville 2030 General Plan Land Use Diagram identifies the Project Site as having a split land use designation (Figure 2-3). Approximately 12.69 acres (APN 253-080-028) are designated Education and approximately 12.78 acres (APN 253-080-027) are designated Parks and Recreation. According to the General Plan, the Parks and Recreation land use designation “applies to both public and private recreation sites and facilities.” The Education land use designation “is intended for lands owned by public or private entities for educational purposes, including schools, colleges, vocational training facilities, and administrative offices.”

2.8 Zoning
The Project Site has been prezoned RM-1 Low Medium Density Residential (Figure 2-4). The Porterville Development Ordinance (PDO; Chapter 21 of the Porterville Municipal Code, or PMC) identifies the purpose of the RM-1 district to “accommodate low-medium densities and more varied forms of residential development, including small-lot single-family homes, detached zero lot line developments, duplexes, townhouses, and garden apartments with a maximum residential density of 11.3 units per net acre.”

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 15 Figure 2-3 General Plan Land Use Designation Map (Existing)

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 16 Figure 2-4 Zoning District Map (Existing)

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 17

2.9 Description of Project
To facilitate the development of the Project Site, the Applicant, Drew Della, has requested General Plan Amendment (GPA No. 2025-001), Conditional Use Permit (CUP No. PRC 2024-017-C 2025-00X), Tentative Subdivision Map (TSM No. 2025-001), and Annexation (ANX No. 2025-001). These processes pertain to two (2) parcels totaling approximately 25.47 acres located on the south side of East Morton Avenue between North Leggett Street and North Henry Street in Porterville, CA (APNs 253-080-027 and 253-080-028).

General Plan Amendment (GPA No. 2025-001) would amend the Project Site’s general plan land use designation from Parks and Recreation and Education to Low Medium Density Residential. According to the General Plan, the Low Medium Density Residential land use designation is “for typical single-family subdivisions but allows for smaller lots. The maximum residential density is 9.0 units per gross acre.” The existing RM-1 prezoning of the site is consistent with this land use designation.

Conditional Use Permit (CUP No. PRC 2024-017-C 2025-00X) would allow for reduced lot sizes. According to the PMC, the RM-1 Zoning District requires a minimum lot size of 6,000 sf. However, smaller lots with a minimum area of 3,000 sf., a minimum lot width of 35 feet (ft.), and a minimum lot depth of 60 ft. may be approved with a Conditional Use Permit when the City Council finds that the lot size and configuration are consistent with the General Plan and will not adversely affect adjoining uses.

Tentative Subdivision Map (TSM No. 2025-001) proposes to subdivide the Project Site into 160 single-family lots (Lots 1 to 160), ranging from 3,993 square feet (sf.) to 7,311 sf., with a typical lot size of 4,000 sf. (Figure 2-6). Each lot is proposed to be developed with one unit (6.3 du/ac). The Project also proposes a 38,325-sf. park and an internal network of local streets with one (1) point of ingress/egress on East Morton Avenue, one (1) point of ingress/egress on North Henry Street, and one (1) point of ingress/egress on Cleveland Avenue. All roadways within the proposed subdivision would be designed in accordance with City standards and would have curb, gutter, and sidewalk. The Project also includes dedication of rights-of-way along Morton Avenue, Henry Street, and Leggett Street. The rightsof-way would be improved in accordance with City standards. Annexation (ANX No. 2025-001) would annex the two-parcel Project site from the County of Tulare into the City of Porterville.

The Project would be built in accordance with all mandatory water use requirements as outlined in the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 11 and verified through the building permit process. As a residential development that contains plumbing fixtures and fittings, the Project shall comply with water-conserving measures for water closets, urinals, showerheads, and faucets. Additionally, as a residential development that contains landscaping including trees, shrubs, groundcover/annual plants, and lawn, the Project shall comply with the updated Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) (California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Chapter 2.7, Division 2), as implemented and enforced through the building permit process.

The Project is proposing annexation into City limits and thus, would be required to connect to water, wastewater, and stormwater services. Domestic water service would be provided to the site through proposed water mains located throughout the site and would connect to the City system. Sanitary sewer service would be provided though sewer mains located throughout the site and would connect to the City system. Natural gas, electricity, and telecommunications are provided by private companies. In addition, the Project would be subject to fees for the construction, acquisition, and improvements for public services including, but not limited to, fire protection services, police protection services, and schools.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 18 Figure 2-5 General Plan Land Use Designation Map (Proposed)

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 19 Figure 2-6 Tentative Subdivision Map

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 20

2.10 Project Setting and Surrounding Land Uses
Project Setting
The Project Site has existed as row-crop orchards with multiple on-site structures for several decades. The Project Site currently contains four (4) structures; a single-family residence and detached garage, a metal equipment shed, and a wooden barn. The Project Site is relatively flat with a sandy loam Porterville clay soil type that is well drained with more than 80-inch water table depth. The existing biotic site conditions and resources of these parcels can be defined primarily as agricultural and are highly disturbed. In addition to the agricultural orchard trees, there are several species of tree surrounding the residence and a line of palm trees along a portion of the site’s frontage to East Morton Avenue.

Surrounding Land Uses
As referenced in Table 2-1, the Project Site is surrounded by vacant land and single-family residences to the north, single-family residences to the south, single-family residences and a church to the east, and single-family residences to the west. The vacant property to the north is planned and zoned for residential uses within the City of Porterville.

Table 2-1 Existing Uses, General Plan Designations, and Zoning Districts of Surrounding Properties Direction from
the Project Site
Existing Land Use Planned Land Use Zoning District
North
Vacant / Single-family
residences
Low Density Residential
RS-2 Low Density
Residential/ RM-1 Low
Medium Density Residential
South
Single-family residences /
Park
Low Density Residential / Parks
and Recreation
PK – Parks and Recreation /
RS-2 Low Density
Residential
East
Single-family residences /
church Low Density Residential RS-2 Low Density Residential West Single-family residences Low Density Residential RS-2 Low Density Residential

2.11 Site Preparation
Site preparation would include removal/demolition of all on-site trees and existing structures/improvements followed by typical grading activities and minor excavation for installation of utility infrastructure for conveyance of water, sewer, stormwater, and irrigation. Demolition, site preparation, building, grading, encroachment, and site utilities permits would be subject to review and approval by the appropriate agency and/or department to ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations. Compliance would be verified through the building permit and inspection process.

2.12 Project Construction and Phasing
The proposed Project anticipates construction to occur in two (2) phases. As shown in Figure 2-7, Phase 1 would include 82 dwelling units and encompass 12.45 acres. Phase 2 would see the construction of the remaining 78 dwelling units and the park and would encompass 13.02 acres.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 21 Figure 2-7 Phasing Map

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 22

2.13 Required Project Approvals
The City of Porterville requires the following review, permits, and/or approvals for the proposed Project. Other approvals not listed below may be required as identified through the entitlement process. • General Plan Amendment
• Conditional Use Permit
• Tentative Subdivision Map
• Annexation
In addition, other agencies may have the authority to issue permits prior to implementation of the Project including but not limited to: San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, Southern California Edison, and Regional Water Quality Control Board.

2.14 Consultation with California Native American Tribes CEQA requires lead agencies to consider the potential effects of proposed projects and consult with California Native American tribes during the local planning process for the purpose of protecting Traditional Tribal Cultural Resources. Pursuant to PRC Section 21080.3.1, the lead agency shall begin consultation with the California Native American tribe that is traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographical area of the proposed project. Such significant cultural resources are either sites, features, places, cultural landscapes, sacred places, and objects with cultural value to a tribe which is either on or eligible for inclusion in the California Historic Register or local historic register, or, the lead agency, at its discretion, and support by substantial evidence, choose to treat the resources as a Tribal Cultural Resources (PRC Section 21074(a)(1-2)). According to the most recent census data, California is home to 109 currently federally recognized Indian tribes.

Conducting consultation early in the CEQA process allows tribal governments, lead agencies, and project proponents to discuss the level of environmental review, identify and address potential adverse impacts to tribal cultural resources, and reduce the potential for delay and conflict in the environmental review process. (See PRC Section 21083.3.2.) Information may also be available from the California Native American Heritage Commission’s Sacred Lands File per PRC Section 5097.96 and the California Historical Resources Information System administered by the California Office of Historic Preservation. Please also note that PRC Section 21082.3(c) contains provisions specific to confidentiality.

A consultation list of tribes with traditional lands or cultural places located within Tulare County was requested and received from the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) on September 18, 2024. The listed tribes include Dumna Wo-Wah Tribal Government, Kern Valley Indian Community, Kitanemuk & Yowlumne Tejon Indians, Table Mountain Rancheria, Traditional Choinumni Tribe, Tubatulabals of Kern Valley, Tule River Indian Tribe, and Wuksachi Indian Tribe/Eshom Valley Band. The NAHC also conducted a Sacred Lands File (SFL) search which was negative.

The City of Porterville conducted formal tribal consultation for the proposed Project pursuant to AB 52 (Chapter 532, Statutes 2014) and SB 18 (Chapter 905, Statutes 2004) on October 4, 2024. Letters were sent to the tribes identified above. Consultation for AB 52 ended on November 3, 2024, and consultation for SB 18 ended on January 2, 2025. Two responses were received. One response was received from the Traditional Choinumni Tribe stating that the project is out of the tribe’s historical land base, and therefore, the tribe is unable to comment on the

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 23 project. The second response was received from Table Mountain Rancheria stating that the project site is beyond the tribe’s area of interest. No other response was received.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 24 3 DETERMINATION

3.1 Environmental Factors Potentially Affected
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this Project, as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.

Aesthetics
Agriculture and Forestry Resources
Air Quality
Biological Resources
Cultural Resources
Energy
Geology and Soils
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Hydrology and Water Quality
Land Use Planning
Mineral Resources
Noise
Population and Housing
Public Services
Recreation
Transportation
Tribal and Cultural Resources
Utilities and Service Systems
Wildfire

For purposes of this Initial Study, the following answers have the corresponding meanings:
“No Impact” means the specific impact category does not apply to the Project, or that the record sufficiently demonstrates that Project specific factors or general standards applicable to the Project will result in no impact for the threshold under consideration.
“Less Than Significant Impact” means there is an impact related to the threshold under consideration, but that impact is less than significant.
“Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporation” means there is a potentially significant impact related to the threshold under consideration, however, with the mitigation incorporated into the Project, the impact is less than significant. For purposes of this Initial Study “mitigation incorporated into the Project” means mitigation originally described in the GP PEIR and applied to an individual Project, as well as mitigation developed specifically for an individual Project.
“Potentially Significant Impact” means there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant related to the threshold under consideration.

3.2 Determination
On the basis of this initial evaluation (to be completed by the Lead Agency):

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.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 25 I find that the proposed Project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (EIR) 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 EIR 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.

Approved By:

Claudia Calderon, Director Date
City of Porterville, Community Development Department

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 26 4 EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

4.1 AESTHETICS
Except as provided in Public Resources
Code Section 21099, would the Project:

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? X
b) Substantially damage scenic
resources, including, but not limited
to, trees, rock out-croppings, and
historic buildings within a state
scenic highway?
X
c) In non-urbanized areas,
substantially degrade the existing
visual character or quality 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?
X
d) Create a new source of substantial
light or glare which would adversely
affect day or nighttime views in the
area?
X

4.1.1 Environmental Setting
Generally, aesthetic resources may include scenic vistas and scenic resources (e.g. trees, rock outcroppings, historic buildings, highways). Porterville’s visual features predominately include urbanized and agricultural land uses. The Project Site is approximately 25.47 acres located on the south side of East Morton Avenue between North Leggett Street and North Henry Street. The Project Site has existing row-crop orchards with multiple on-site structures for several decades. The Project Site currently contains four (4) structures; a single-family residence and detached garage, a metal equipment shed, and a wooden barn.

Porterville 2030 General Plan
According to the Porterville 2030 General Plan, the City identifies its agricultural foundation, topography, landscape, as well as parkland, as a contribution to community identity, aesthetic value, environmental quality, habitat protection, and recreational activities. However, the General Plan does not identify any specific scenic corridors or scenic vistas within the City’s Planning Area.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 27 The City Code of Porterville, California
The City Code of Porterville, California, also known as the Porterville Municipal Code (PMC) outlines enforceable requirements for all new developments to prevent lighting and glare impacts, as listed below:

Section 306.07 - Lighting and Glare
B. Lighting. Lights shall be placed to deflect light away from adjacent properties and public streets, and to prevent adverse interference with the normal operation or enjoyment of surrounding properties. Direct or sky-reflected glare from floodlights shall not be directed into any other property or street. Except for public streetlights, no light or combination of lights, or activity shall cast light on a public street exceeding one (1) foot-candle as measured from the centerline of the street. No light, combination of lights, or activity shall cast light onto a residentially zoned property, or any property containing residential uses, exceeding one half foot-candle. Refer to Section 300.07 Lighting and Illumination and Section 304.10(g) Parking Lot Lighting for additional lighting standards required by this code.

Section 300.07 - Lighting and Illumination
E. Shielding. All lighting fixtures shall be shielded in accordance with Table 300.07(B) so as not to produce obtrusive glare onto the public right-of-way or adjoining properties. All luminaries shall meet the most recently adopted criteria of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) for “Cut Off” or “Full Cut Off” luminaries, as illustrated in Figure 300.07.

California Scenic Highway Program
The California Scenic Highway Program was established in 1963 with the purpose of protecting and enhancing the natural scenic beauty of California highways and adjacent corridors, through special conservation treatment. A highway may be designated scenic depending upon how much of the natural landscape can be seen by travelers, the scenic quality of the landscape, and the extent to which development intrudes upon the traveler's enjoyment of the view. There are no officially designated State Scenic Highways in the City of Porterville, however, State Route (SR) 190, east of SR 65, is categorized as an eligible State Scenic Highway. SR 190 is located approximately 1.3 miles south of the Project Site.
1 4.1.2 Impact Assessment
Except as provided in PRC Section 21099, would the Project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? Less than Significant Impact. The Project Site is currently occupied by orchards with multiple on-site structures. The site is surrounded by single-family residences to the north, south, east, and west, a church to the east, and vacant lands to the north and east. Mountain ranges and foothills can be seen to the north and east of the Project ite; however, most of this long-range view is blocked by the orchards on the site and existing development on properties north and east of the site. While views of the mountain ranges would be further obstructed by development of the Project Site, impacts would be less than significant due to view obstruction by existing crops 1 Caltrans. California State Scenic Highway System Map. Accessed on October 23, 2024, https://caltrans.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=465dfd3d807c46cc8e8057116f1aacaa

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 28 and development. Additionally, the General Plan does not identify or designate scenic vistas or corridors within the general vicinity of the Project Site. As a result, a less than significant impact would occur. b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway?
No Impact. According to the California State Scenic Highway Program, there are no officially designated State Scenic Highways in the City of Porterville, inclusive of the Project Site. SR 190 is an eligible State Scenic Highway but is located approximately 1.3 miles south of the Project ite and would not be impacted by the Project due to its distance. Accordingly, the proposed Project would not damage scenic resources, including trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway and no impact would occur. 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?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project ite is in an urbanized area surrounded by residential and institutional uses.

Once developed, the Project Site will not have a substantially different character from the surrounding area.

Further, the proposed use is subject to compliance with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality, which will ensure the minimization of any visual impact by upholding the visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings. The Project would be subject to compliance with applicable policies and regulations that govern scenic quality including but not limited to the General Plan, Porterville Municipal Code (PMC), and California Building Code (CBC). Compliance would ensure that development of the site would not conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality. Therefore, the Project would result in 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?
Less than Significant Impact. Generally, lighting impacts are associated with artificial lighting in evening hours either through interior lighting from windows or exterior lighting (e.g., street lighting, parking lot lighting, landscape lighting, adjacent vehicle traffic). Development of the Project site would incrementally increase the amount of light from streetlights, exterior lighting, and vehicular headlights. Such sources could create adverse effects on day or nighttime views in the area.

Project construction would also introduce light and glare resulting from construction activities such as construction equipment traversing the site that could adversely affect day or nighttime views. Although construction activities are anticipated to occur primarily during daylight hours, it is possible that some activities could occur during dusk or early evening hours (PMC Section 18-90.6 permits construction work to take place between 6:00 am and 9:00 pm on any day except Saturday and Sunday, or between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm on Saturday or Sunday). Construction during these time periods could result in light and glare from construction vehicles or equipment. However, construction would occur primarily during daylight hours and would be temporary in nature. Once construction is completed, any light and glare from these activities would cease to occur.

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4.1.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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4.2 AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES
Would the Project:

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 nonagricultural use?
X
b) Conflict with existing zoning for
agricultural use, or a Williamson Act
contract?
X
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))?
X
d) Result in the loss of forest land or
conversion of forest land to nonforest use? X
e) Involve other changes in the
existing environment which, due to
their location or nature, could result
in conversion of Farmland, to nonagricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
X

4.2.1 Environmental Setting
The Project Site is an unincorporated County island surrounded by the City of Porterville, planned and zoned for urbanized uses in the City of Porterville. The Project site has existed as row-crop orchards with multiple on-site structures for several decades. The Project site currently contains four (4) structures; a single-family residence and detached garage, a metal equipment shed, and a wooden barn. The existing biotic conditions and resources of the site can be defined primarily as agricultural and are highly disturbed. In addition to the agricultural orchard trees, there are existing trees surrounding the residence and a line of palm trees along a portion of the site’s frontage to East Morton Avenue. The Project site does not contain any water features or forestry resources such as forest land or timberland.

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The California Department of Conservation manages the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) that provides maps and data for analyzing land use impacts on farmland. The FMMP produces the Important Farmland Finder as a resource map that shows quality (soils) and land use information. Agricultural land is rated according to soil quality and irrigation status, in addition to many other physical and chemical characteristics. The highest quality land is called “Prime Farmland” which is defined by the FMMP as “farmland with the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long term agricultural production. This land has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. Land must have been used for irrigated agricultural production at some time during the four years prior to the mapping date. 2 Maps are updated every two years. According to the FMMP, California Important Farmland Finder, the Project Site is classified as “Prime Farmland” as defined below. 3Figure 4-1 shows the farmland type classification within the Project vicinity.

Prime Farmland (P): Farmland with the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long term agricultural production. This land has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. Land must have been used for irrigated agricultural production at some time during the four years prior to the mapping date.

California Land Conservation Act
The California Land Conservation Act of 1965 (i.e., the Williamson Act) allows local governments to enter contracts with private landowners to restrict parcels of land for agricultural or open space uses. In return, property tax assessments of the restricted parcels are lower than full market value since the restricted parcels are assessed according to their restricted use rather than their development potential free of such restriction. The minimum length of a Williamson Act contract is 10 years and automatically renews annually upon its anniversary date; as such, the contract length is essentially indefinite unless appropriately cancelled. The site is currently under contract in the County. Upon annexation, the Project Site is would not be subject to the Williamson Act. California Government Code Section 51243.5 allows cities, at the discretion of LAFCo, to not succeed to the rights, duties, and powers of the county under the Williamson Act if certain criteria are met. As discussed in the Impact Assessment below, the criteria have been met for the subject property under contract. 2 California Department of Conservation. Important Farmland Categories. Accessed on October 18, 2024, https://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/fmmp/Pages/Important-Farmland-Categories.aspx 3 California Department of Conservation. (2020). California Important Farmland Finder. Accessed on October 18, 2024, https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/DLRP/CIFF/

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4.2.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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?
Less than Significant Impact. According to the FMMP, California Important Farmland Finder, the Project site is designated as “Prime Farmland”. The site is an unincorporated County island surrounded by the City of Porterville with a residential zoning. A General Plan Amendment is proposed to change the land use designation from Parks and Recreation and Education to Low Medium Density Residential, which would support the site’s RM-1 prezoning.

Therefore, development of the Project would convert Prime Farmland to a non-agricultural use.

While the Project would result in the conversion of agricultural lands to a non-agricultural use, this conversion was evaluated under the Porterville General Plan EIR. The EIR states that “although the conversion of these agricultural lands is considered significant, it is important to note that the General Plan has incorporated land use patterns and policies to minimize the amount of overall urban growth in the Planning Area”.

Implementation Policy LU-I-5 Require contiguous development within the UDB unless it can be demonstrated that development of property which is contiguous to urban development is unavailable.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-2 Work with the County with the objective of:
• Retaining agriculture and open space areas around the City, consistent with the General Plan; and • Notifying the City of development applications to areas adjacent to the City’s Planning Area.

The Project is compliant with Policy LU-I-5 since the site is located adjacent to development within the city limits.

The Project would not impede implementation of Policy OSC-I-2 since it does not affect agricultural and open space areas around the City. Compliance with General Plan policies would reduce potential impacts related to the conversion of agricultural lands to non-agricultural use. Therefore, the impacts would be less than significant. b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a Williamson Act contract? Less than Significant Impact. While the Project site is currently zoned for agricultural use within the County of Tulare, it is pre-zoned for residential uses within the City of Porterville. Upon entitlement approval by the City, the Tulare County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) would review the proposed annexation in consideration of the Project’s impact on agricultural land, as required by State law. Once the Project is approved by LAFCo and annexed to the city limits, the Project would no longer be subject to the County’s agricultural zoning district.

Additionally, the Project site is would not be subject to the Williamson Act. While the site is currently under a Williamson Act contract with the County, this contract will be cancelled upon annexation to the City. California Government Code Section 51243.5 grants cities, subject to LAFCo's discretion, the option not to assume the County's rights, duties, and powers under the Williamson Act if specific criteria are met. Research and confirmation from the City indicate that the site satisfies these criteria. Consequently, the City intends to adopt these findings via a resolution initiating annexation to formally elect not to succeed to the Williamson Act contract. Therefore, the

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 34 Project would not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract, and a less than significant impact would occur.
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))? No Impact. The Project Site is not planned or zoned for forest land or timberland as defined by PRC Section 12220 (g). Further, the Project would not cause the rezoning of forest land, timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production. As a result, the Project would not conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land, timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production as defined by PRC Section 4526 or GC Section 5110(g) and no impact would occur.
d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? No Impact. The Project Site does not contain forest land and is not planned or zoned for forest land or forest uses.

Implementation of the Project would therefore not result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use. As a result, no impact would occur.
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? Less than Significant Impact. The Project site is currently designated as “Prime Farmland”. As analyzed under criterion a), the Project would have a less than significant impact on the conversion of farmland to non-agricultural use through implementation of policies identified in the General Plan that would provide safeguards for agricultural lands. In addition, the Project Site is largely surrounded by urbanized uses. Therefore, the proposed development would be generally consistent with the existing environment of the adjacent urbanized neighborhood and would follow the pattern of growth as planned in the General Plan. As a result, the Project would not involve additional changes in the existing environment that could result in the conversion of farmland to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use that is not considered in the General Plan. Therefore, a less than significant impact would occur because of the Project.

4.2.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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4.3 AIR QUALITY
Would the Project:

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?
X
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?
X
c) Expose sensitive receptors to
substantial pollutant concentrations? X
d) Result in other emissions (such as
those leading to odors) adversely
affecting a substantial number of
people?
X

4.3.1 Environmental Setting
The City of Porterville lies within the central portion of the San Joaquin Valley Air Basin (SJVAB) that is bounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountain range to the east, Coastal Ranges to the west, and Tehachapi mountains to the south.

The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) regulates air quality in eight (8) counties including:

Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Tulare. The SJVAPCD oversees the SJVAB.

Impacts on air quality result from emissions generated during short-term activities (construction) and long-term activities (operations). Construction-related emissions consist mainly of exhaust emissions (NOX, PM10, and PM2.5) from construction equipment and other mobile sources, and fugitive dust (PM10 and PM2.5) emissions from earth moving activities. Operational emissions are source specific and consist of permitted equipment and activities and non-permitted equipment and activities.

Air pollution in the SJVAB can be attributed to both human-related (anthropogenic) and natural (nonanthropogenic) activities that produce emissions. Air pollution from significant anthropogenic activities in the SJVAB includes a variety of industrial-based sources as well as on- and off-road mobile sources. Four (4) main sources of air pollutant emissions in the SJVAB are motor vehicles, industrial plants, agricultural activities, and construction activities. All four (4) of the major pollutant sources affect ambient air quality throughout the SJVAB. These sources, coupled with geographical and meteorological conditions unique to the area, stimulate the formation of unhealthy air. Air pollutants can remain in the atmosphere for long periods and can build to unhealthful levels when stagnant conditions that are common in the San Joaquin Valley occur. Pollutants are transported downwind from urban areas with many emission sources which are also recirculated back to the urban areas.

Further, the SJVAB is in non-attainment for ozone, PM10, and PM2.5, which means that certain pollutants' exposure levels are often higher than the normal air quality requirements. Air quality standards have been set to protect

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Concentration of the pollutant in the air, the length of time exposed and the individual's reaction are factors that affect the extent and nature of the health effects.

San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District
The SJVAPCD is the agency primarily responsible for ensuring that National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) are not exceeded and that air quality conditions are maintained in the SJVAB, within which the Project is located. Responsibilities of the SJVAPCD include, but are not limited to, preparing plans for the attainment of ambient air quality standards, adopting and enforcing rules and regulations concerning sources of air pollution, issuing permits for stationary sources of air pollution, inspecting stationary sources of air pollution and responding to citizen complaints, monitoring ambient air quality and meteorological conditions, and implementing programs and regulations required by the federal Clean Air Act and the California Clean Air Act .

The SJVAPCD rules and regulations that may apply to projects that will occur during buildout of the Project include but are not limited to the following:

Rule 2010 – Permits Required. The purpose of this rule is to require any person constructing, altering, replacing or operating any source operation which emits, may emit, or may reduce emissions to obtain an Authority to Construct or a Permit to Operate. This rule also explains the posting requirements for a Permit to Operate and the illegality of a person willfully altering, defacing, forging, counterfeiting or falsifying any Permit to Operate.

Rule 2201 – New and Modified Stationary Source Review Rule. The purpose of this rule is to provide for the following:

The review of new and modified Stationary Sources of air pollution and to provide mechanisms including emission trade-offs by which Authorities to Construct such sources may be granted, without interfering with the attainment or maintenance of Ambient Air Quality Standards; and No net increase in emissions above specified thresholds from new and modified Stationary Sources of all nonattainment pollutants and their precursors.

Rule 4001 – New Source Performance Standards. This rule incorporates the New Source Performance Standards from Part 60, Chapter 1, Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).

Rule 4002 – National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants. This rule incorporates the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants from Part 61, Chapter I, Subchapter C, Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Source Categories from Part 63, Chapter I, Subchapter C, Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).

Rule 4102 – Nuisance. The purpose of this rule is to protect the health and safety of the public and applies to any source operation that emits or may emit air contaminants or other materials.

Rule 4601 – Architectural Coatings. The purpose of this rule is to limit VOC emissions from architectural coatings. This rule specifies architectural coatings storage, cleanup, and labeling requirements.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 37 Rule 4641 – Cutback, Slow Cure, and Emulsified Asphalt, Paving and Maintenance Operations. The purpose of this rule is to limit VOC emissions from asphalt paving and maintenance operations. This rule applies to the manufacture and use of cutback asphalt, slow cure asphalt and emulsified asphalt for paving and maintenance operations.

Regulation VIII – Fugitive PM10 Prohibitions. The purpose of Regulation VIII (Fugitive PM10 Prohibitions) is to reduce ambient concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM10) by requiring actions to prevent, reduce or mitigate anthropogenic fugitive dust emissions.

Rule 9510 – Indirect Source Review. The purposes of this rule are to:

1. Fulfill the District’s emission reduction commitments in the PM10 and Ozone Attainment Plans.

2. Achieve emission reductions from the construction and use of development projects through design features and on-site measures.

3. Provide a mechanism for reducing emissions from the construction of and use of development projects through off-site measures.

Thresholds of Significance
To assist local jurisdictions in the evaluation of air quality impacts, the SJVAPCD has published the Guide for Assessing and Mitigating Air Quality Impacts (GAMAQI). SJVAPCD recommends a three (3)-tiered approach to air quality analysis based on Project size to allow quick screening for CEQA impacts:

1. Small Project Analysis Level (SPAL): based on the District’s New Source Review, the District pre-quantified emissions and determined values as thresholds of significance for criteria pollutants. Residential, commercial, retail, industrial, educational, and recreational land uses are eligible to use this for screening.

The SPAL was published on November 13, 2020, by the SJVAPCD to determine potential impacts in GAMAQI.
4 SPAL is based on a CalEEMod version 2016.3.2.

2. Cursory Analysis Level (CAL): CAL is used to determine significance on Projects that exceed the SPAL criteria.

Analysis includes using CalEEMod to estimate emissions and air pollutants.

3. Full Analysis Level (FAL): this level of analysis is usually required for an EIR. It requires a full air quality report that describes impacts on the public.

GAMAQI also includes recommended thresholds of significance to be used for the evaluation of short-term construction, long-term operational, odor, toxic air contaminant, and cumulative air quality impacts. Accordingly, the SJVAPCD-recommended thresholds of significance are used to determine whether implementation of the proposed Project would result in a significant air quality impact. Projects that exceed these recommended thresholds would be considered to have a potentially significant impact on human health and welfare. The thresholds of significance are summarized, as follows:
4 San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. (2020). “Small Project Analysis Levels (SPAL)”. Accessed on October 23, 2024, https://www.valleyair.org/transportation/CEQA%20Rules/GAMAQI-SPAL.PDF

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 38 Criteria Air Pollutants
SJVAPCD adopted thresholds of significance for criteria air pollutants, as shown in Table 4-1. The thresholds of significance are based on a calendar year basis. For construction emissions, the annual emissions are evaluated on a rolling 12-month period. The following summarizes these thresholds:

Short-Term Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM10): Construction impacts associated with the proposed Project would be considered significant if the feasible control measures for construction in compliance with Regulation VIII as listed in the SJVAPCD guidelines are not incorporated or implemented, or if Project-generated emissions would exceed 15 tons per year (TPY).

Short-Term Emissions of Ozone Precursors (ROG and NOX): Construction impacts associated with the proposed Project would be considered significant if the Project generates emissions of Reactive Organic Gases (ROG) or NOX that exceeds 10 TPY.

Long-Term Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM10): Operational impacts associated with the proposed Project would be considered significant if the Project generates emissions of PM10 that exceed 15 TPY.

Long-Term Emissions of Ozone Precursors (ROG and NOX): Operational impacts associated with the proposed Project would be considered significant if the Project generates emissions of ROG or NOX that exceeds 10 TPY.

Table 4-1 SJVAPCD Recommended Air Quality Thresholds of Significance2F 5 Pollutant
Significance Threshold
Construction Emissions (tons/year) Operational Emission (tons/year) CO 100 100
NOX 10 10
ROG 10 10
SOX 27 27
PM10 15 15
PM2.5 15 15
Conflict with or Obstruct Implementation of Applicable Air Quality Plan Air Quality Plans (AQPs) are plans for reaching the attainment of air quality standards. The applicable AQP for the SJVAB is the GAMAQI. Due to the region’s nonattainment status for ozone, PM2.5, and PM10, if the Project-generated emissions of either of the ozone precursor pollutants (i.e., ROG and NOx) or PM10 would exceed the SJVAPCD’s significance thresholds, then the Project would be considered to be conflicting with the AQP. In addition, if the Project would result in a change in land use and corresponding increases in vehicle miles traveled, the Project may result in an increase in vehicle miles traveled that is unaccounted for in regional emissions inventories contained in regional air quality control plans. Vehicle Miles Traveled is analyzed in Section 4.17.

5 SJVAPCD. (2015). Guidance for Assessing and Mitigating Air Quality Impacts. Accessed on October 23, 2024, https://www.valleyair.org/transportation/GAMAQI-2015/FINAL-DRAFT-GAMAQI.PDF

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Local mobile source impacts associated with the proposed Project would be considered significant if the Project contributes to CO concentrations at receptor locations in excess of the CAAQS (i.e., 9.0 ppm for 8 hours or 20 ppm for 1 hour).

Toxic Air Contaminants
Exposure to toxic air contaminants (TAC) would be considered significant if the probability of contracting cancer for the Maximally Exposed Individual (i.e., maximum individual risk) would exceed 10 in 1 million or would result in a Hazard Index greater than one (1).

As recommended by the SJVAPCD, the latest approved California Air Pollution Control Officer’s Association (CAPCOA) methodology was utilized as the TAC screening methodology. According to the CAPCOA Guidance Document titled “Health Risk Assessments for Proposed Land Use Projects,” there are two types of land use projects that have the potential to cause long-term public health risk impacts. These project types are as follows:
• Type A: Land use Projects with toxic emissions that impact receptors, and • Type B: Land use Project that will place receptors in the vicinity of existing toxics sources.

In this Guidance document, Type A projects examples are (project impacts receptors):
• combustion related power plants,
• gasoline dispensing facilities,
• asphalt batch plants,
• warehouse distribution centers,
• quarry operations, and
• other stationary sources that emit toxic substances.

Odor
The intensity of an odor source’s operations and its proximity to sensitive receptors influences the potential significance of odor emissions. Specific land uses that are considered sources of undesirable odors include landfills, transfer stations, composting facilities, sewage treatment plants, wastewater pump stations, asphalt batch plants, and rendering plants. The SJVAPCD has identified these common types of facilities that have been known to produce odors in the SJVAB and has prepared screening levels for potential odor sources ranging from one to two miles of distance from the odor-producing facility to sensitive receptors. Odor impacts would be considered significant if the Project has the potential to frequently expose members of the public to objectionable odors.

Ambient Air Quality
The SJVAPCD applies the following guidance in determining whether an ambient air quality analysis should be performed: when assessing the significance of Project-related impacts on air quality, it should be noted that the impacts may be significant when on-site emission increases from construction activities or operational activities exceed the 100 pounds per day screening level of any criteria pollutant after implementation of all enforceable mitigation measures. Under such circumstances, the SJVAPCD recommends that an ambient air quality analysis be performed.

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The SPAL identifies pre-quantified emissions and determined values related to project type, size, and number of vehicle trips. According to the SPAL, projects that fit specified descriptions are deemed to have a less than significant impact on air quality and as such are excluded from quantifying criteria pollutant emissions for CEQA purposes. The SPAL threshold criteria for residential projects is shown in Table 4-2.

Table 4-2 SPAL Thresholds for Residential Projects
Land Use Type Size and Unit
Average Daily One-Way Trips for
all fleet types (Except HHDT)
Average Daily One-way for HHDT
Trips only (50-mile trip length)
Single Family 155 dwelling unit 800 15
Apartment, Low Rise 224 dwelling unit 800 15
Apartment, Mid Rise 225 dwelling unit 800 15
Apartment, High Rise 340 dwelling unit 800 15
Condominiums/Townhouse 352 dwelling unit 800 15
Porterville 2030 General Plan
The Porterville 2030 General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element established policies and actions related to air quality, as listed below.

Guiding Policy OSC-G-9 Improve and protect Porterville’s air quality by making air quality a priority in land use and transportation planning and in development review.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-58 Continue to assess air quality impacts through environmental review and require developers to implement best management practices to reduce air pollutant emissions associated with the construction and operation of development projects.

The City will use the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) Guidelines for Assessing and Mitigating Air Quality Impacts for determining and mitigating project air quality impacts and related thresholds of significance for use in environmental documents. The City shall cooperate with the SJVAPCD in the review of development proposals.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-59 Require preparation of a Health Risk Assessment for any development subject to the Air Toxics “Hot Spots” Act.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-60 Require dust control measures as a condition of approval for subdivision maps, site plans, and all grading permits.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-65 When asbestos has been identified in the preliminary soils report, require all new development and public works projects to comply with all provisions of State and regional ATCM regulations for control of airborne asbestos emissions relating to construction, road maintenance, and grading activities.

4.3.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? Less than Significant Impact. According to the GAMAQI, projects with emissions below the thresholds of significance for criteria pollutants would be determined to “Not conflict or obstruct implementation of the District’s air quality

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 41 plan.” As stated above, the SJVAPCD recommends a three-tiered approach to analyze projects for significant impacts on air quality. The following analysis estimates criteria pollutants for buildout under the proposed Project using CalEEModTM (Version 2022.1.1.28) that was modeled on October 10, 2024. Output files are provided in Appendix A.

Construction Emissions
Construction activities associated with the Project include removal/demolition of all on-site trees and existing structures/improvements followed by typical grading activities and minor excavation for installation of utility infrastructure for conveyance of water, sewer, stormwater, and irrigation. Table 4-3 provides the estimated construction criteria for pollutant emissions of the proposed 160 single-family residences. All estimated emissions are below significance thresholds. As a result, it can be anticipated that construction emissions as a result of the implementation of the Project would be less than significant.

Table 4-3 Construction Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants, Unmitigated Emissions Source (Tons Per Year) CO NOx ROG PM10 PM2.5
Construction Year 2024 2.56 2.24 0.26 0.54 0.28
Construction Year 2025 2.06 1.39 0.18 0.12 0.06
Construction Year 2026 0.33 0.22 1.00 0.01 0.01
Maximum Year of Emissions 2.56 2.24 1.00 0.54 0.28
Significance Threshold 100 10 10 15 15
Exceed Threshold? No No No No No
Source: CalEEMod, Version 2022.1.1.28, ran on October 10, 2024. See Appendix A.

Operational Emissions
Pollutants of concern include ROG, NOX, CO, PM10, and PM2.5. Table 4-4 provides the estimated operational criteria pollutant emissions of the proposed 160 single-family residences. As shown, all estimated emissions are below significance thresholds. Therefore, the operational emissions would be less than significant.

Table 4-4 Operational Emissions of Criteria Air Pollutants, Unmitigated Emissions Source (Tons Per Year) CO NOx ROG PM10 PM2.5
Area 8.14 1.59 1.00 2.00 0.53
Energy 2.32 0.09 1.55 0.22 0.21
Mobile 0.09 0.21 0.01 0.02 0.02
Total Operational Emissions 10.6 1.89 2.56 2.23 0.75
Significance Threshold 100 10 10 15 15
Exceed Threshold? No No No No No
Source: CalEEMod, Version 2022.1.1.28, ran on October 10, 2024. See Appendix A.

Overall, the Project will not exceed significance thresholds, and thereby, be consistent with the applicable AQP. As such, the Project would have a less than significant impact on air quality. 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? Less than Significant Impact. The SJVAB is in non-attainment for ozone, PM10, and PM2.5, which means that certain pollutants' exposure levels are often higher than the normal air quality requirements. The requirements have been set to protect public health, particularly the health of vulnerable populations. Therefore, if the concentration of those contaminants exceeds the norm, some susceptible individuals in the population are likely to experience

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 42 health effects. Concentration of the pollutant in the air, the length of time exposed and the individual's reaction are factors that affect the extent and nature of the health effects as analyzed in criterion a) above, the Project would have a less than significant impact on air quality and are excluded from quantifying criteria pollutant emissions for CEQA purposes. Therefore, the Project would not result in significant cumulative health impacts because the emissions are not at a level that would be considered cumulatively significant. The impact would be less than significant.
c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? Less than Significant Impact. Sensitive receptors are defined as people that have an increased sensitivity to air pollution or environmental contaminants. Sensitive receptors include schools, parks and playgrounds, day care centers, nursing homes, hospitals, and residential dwelling units. The nearest sensitive receptors to the Project site are single-family residences located approximately 50 to 75 feet west, north, east, and south.

The Project proposes residential uses within an area generally consisting of residential uses. Therefore, the Project would not introduce new, incompatible, or unpermitted uses that would otherwise exacerbate air pollution or environmental contaminants and negatively impact nearby sensitive receptors. In addition, as stated under criterion a) above, emissions during construction or operation would not exceed the significance thresholds and would not be anticipated to result in concentrations that reach or surpass ambient air quality standards.

Project construction would involve the use of diesel-fueled vehicles and equipment that emit diesel particulate matter (DPM), which is considered a TAC. DPM includes exhaust PM10 and PM2.5. Health risks from TACs are a function of both concentration and duration of exposure. Although DPM would be emitted during construction, emissions would be temporary and last only during construction activities. In addition, construction activities would be required to comply with all rules and regulations administered by the SJVAPCD including but not limited to Rule 9510 (Indirect Source Review), Regulation VIII (Fugitive PM10 Prohibitions), Rule 2010 (Permits Required), Rule 2201 (New and Modified Stationary Source Review), Rule 4402 (Nuisance), Rule 4601 (Architectural Coatings), and Rule 4641 (Cutback, Slow Cure, and Emulsified Asphalt, Paving and Maintenance Operations). Additionally, anticipated development on the Project Site would include residential uses, which are not uses that would generate toxic emissions (i.e., Type A uses identified by the CAPCOA guidelines). As a result, impacts 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. Specific uses and operations that are considered sources of undesirable odors include landfills, transfer stations, composting facilities, sewage treatment plants, wastewater pump stations, asphalt batch plants and rendering plants. The Project would not consist of such land uses; rather, the proposed Project would facilitate the development of residential uses, and thus is unlikely to produce odors that would be considered to adversely affect a substantial number of people. Therefore, a less than significant impact would occur.

4.3.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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4.4 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Would the Project:

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 Game or U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service?
X
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 Game or US Fish and Wildlife
Service?
X
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?
X
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?
X
e) Conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological
resources, such as a tree preservation
policy or ordinance?
X
f) Conflict with provisions of an adopted
Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or
other approved local, regional, or
state habitat conservation plan.

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4.4.1 Environmental Setting
The Project Site has existed as orchards with multiple on-site structures for several decades. The Project site currently contains four (4) structures; a single-family residence and detached garage, a metal equipment shed, and a wooden barn. The existing biotic site conditions and resources of the Project Site can be defined primarily as agricultural and are highly disturbed. In addition to the agricultural orchard trees, there are several species of tree surrounding the residence and a line of palm trees along a portion of the site’s frontage to East Morton Avenue.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife – Special-Status Species Database The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) operates an “Information for Planning and Consultation” (IPaC) database, which is a Project planning tool for the environmental review process that provides general information on the location of special-status species that are “known” or “expected” to occur (note: the database does not provide occurrences; refer to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife – Natural Diversity Database below). 6 Specifically, the database identifies 12 endangered species, 1 bald & golden eagle, and 14 migratory birds that are potentially affected by activities on the Project Site. The list of species is provided in Appendix C.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife – Critical Habitat Report
Once a species is listed under the federal Endangered Species Act, NOAA Fisheries is required to determine whether there are areas that meet the definition of Critical Habitat. Per NOAA Fisheries, Critical Habitat is defined as:
• Specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time of listing that contain physical or biological features essential to conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations or protection; and
• Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species if the agency determines that the area itself is essential for conservation. 7
The process of Critical Habitat designation is complex and involves the consideration of scientific data, public and peer review, economic, national security, and other relevant impacts. According to the Critical Habitat for Threatened & Endangered Species Report updated September 17, 2024, the Project Site and its immediate vicinity (0.5-mile radius from the site) are not located within a federally designated Critical Habitat. 8 The closest federally designated Critical Habitat is located approximately 1.5 miles north of the Project Site for California condor (Gymnogyps californianus).

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – National Wetlands Inventory The USFWS provides a National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) with detailed information on the abundance, characteristics, and distribution of U.S. wetlands. A search of the NWI shows no federally protected wetlands 6 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Information and Planning Consultation Online System. Accessed on October 10, 2024, https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/
7 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Critical Habitat. Accessed on October 10, 2024, https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/endangered-species-conservation/critical-habitat#definition-of-critical-habitat 8 U.S. Fish & Wildlife. (2024). ECOS Environmental Conservation Online System - USFWS Threatened & Endangered Species Active Critical Habitat Report (updated September 17, 2024). Accessed on October 10, 2024, https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/report/table/critical-habitat.html

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 45 (including but not limited to marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) on the Project Site. 9 The NWI does not identify any water features within the Project site. Additionally, the Project Site is not within or adjacent to a riparian area nor does the site contain water features.

Environmental Protection Agency – WATERS Geoviewer
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WATERS GeoViewer provides a GeoPlatform based web mapping application of water features by location. According to the WATERS GeoViewer, there is a catchment running across the Project Site, as shown in Figure 4-2.
10 Catchments are areas where water is collected before it runs into the ground or to the ocean. Catchments are also known as watersheds.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife – Natural Diversity Database The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) operates the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), which is an inventory of the status and locations of rare plants and animals in California along with reported occurrences of such species. 11 The Project Site is located on the east border of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Porterville 7.5-minute quadrangle map (Quad), adjacent to the Success Dam Quad. According to the CNDDB, there are 24 special-status species that have been observed and reported in the Porterville Quad and Success Dam Quad. A list of occurrences within these Quads is provided in Appendix B.

Figure 4-3 shows the CNDDB-identified occurrences of animal and plant species within the five (5)-mile radius of the Project ite. Table 4-5 lists all federally or state-listed special-status species CNDDB-known occurrences within the five (5)-mile radius of the Project Site, organized by distance to the site. Hardhead and steelhead occurrences, which are some of the closest occurrences, are observed along the Tuolumne River. Several occurrences are listed as extirpated or possibly extirpated, meaning that the habitat has been destructed or that the element has been searched but not seen for many years.

Table 4-5 Special-Status Species Occurrences within 5-mile radius of Project Site Species (Common Name) Date Federal Status State Status Distance to site Crotch's bumble bee 1963/06/13 None Candidate Endangered 0 Northern California legless lizard 1940/04/02 None None 0.8 miles west San Joaquin adobe sunburst 1990/03/22 Threatened Endangered 1.3 miles northeast San Joaquin kit fox 1973/x/x Endangered Threatened 1.5 miles northwest Morrison's blister beetle 1939/05/01 None None 2.0 miles south Townsend's big-eared bat 1988/07/27 None None 2.3 miles northeast valley elderberry longhorn beetle 1991/04/21 Threatened None 1.9 miles southeast San Joaquin adobe sunburst 1990/04/12 Threatened Endangered 2.0 miles north California condor 1976/09/17 Endangered Endangered 1.7 miles north Springville clarkia 2002/04/16 Threatened Endangered 2.3 miles north San Joaquin adobe sunburst 2016/03/18 Threatened Endangered 2.5 miles north striped adobe-lily 2007/03/01 None Threatened 2.6 miles north 9 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. National Wetlands Inventory. Accessed October 10, 2024, https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/data/Mapper.html
10 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. WATERS GeoViewer 2.0. Accessed October 11, 2024, https://epa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=074cfede236341b6a1e03779c2bd0692 11 California Department of Fish and Wildlife. California Natural Diversity Database. Accessed October 11, 2024, https://wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CNDDB

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 46 San Joaquin adobe sunburst 1988/04/09 Threatened Endangered 2.6 miles north Northern California legless lizard 2017/04/23 None None 2.3 miles southeast San Joaquin adobe sunburst 2010/04/01 Threatened Endangered 3.0 miles northeast striped adobe-lily 1988/04/01 None Threatened 3.0 miles northeast Springville clarkia 2017/05/11 Threatened Endangered 3.3 miles northeast spiny-sepaled button-celery 2016/03/28 None None 3.6 miles northeast western mastiff bat 1994/10/11 None None 4.0 miles northeast calico monkeyflower 1983/04/26 None None 3.6 miles east striped adobe-lily 1990/03/29 None Threatened 4.0 miles east San Joaquin adobe sunburst 2010/x/x Threatened Endangered 4.2 miles east shining navarretia 2016/06/06 None None 4.2 miles east
striped adobe-lily 1998/x/x None Threatened 4.4 miles east Northern California legless lizard 2002/04/27 None None 3.3 miles southeast valley elderberry longhorn beetle 1991/04/30 Threatened None 4.0 miles southeast tricolored blackbird 1971/05/05 None Threatened 4.6 miles southeast valley elderberry longhorn beetle 1991/04/30 Threatened None 4.2 miles southeast Northern California legless lizard 2016/03/23 None None 4.3 miles southeast San Joaquin adobe sunburst 2010/03/31 Threatened Endangered 4.1 miles east Springville clarkia 2016/03/29 Threatened Endangered 4.1 miles east Madera leptosiphon 1935/03/28 None None 4.5 miles southeast San Joaquin kit fox 1975/07/x Endangered Threatened 3.7 miles south Northern Claypan Vernal Pool 1980/04/26 None None 5.0 miles southeast San Joaquin kit fox 1975/07/x Endangered Threatened 3.7 miles southwest vernal pool fairy shrimp 2002/07/22 Threatened None 4.0 miles southwest vernal pool fairy shrimp 2002/07/22 Threatened None 3.2 miles southwest American badger x/x/x None None 4.8 miles southwest
San Joaquin kit fox 1989/04/09 Endangered Threatened 5.0 miles southwest Swainson's hawk 2017/07/09 None Threatened 4.7 miles west San Joaquin kit fox 1975/07/x Endangered Threatened 5.0 miles northwest Extirpated or possible extirpated occurrences are not shown on the table.

Biological Resource Assessment
A Biological Resource Assessment was conducted by Argonaut Ecological Consulting, Inc., on October 31, 2024, and is provided in Appendix C. The assessment includes assessing the types of current habitats and sensitive species associated with the habitats. The biological evaluation methods include performing site reconnaissance, reviewing public and commercial databases, historical and current aerial photographs, and other published information and data. The following summarizes results and conclusions from the Biological Resource Assessment.

The Project ite was walked on October 26, 2024, and all habitat features were mapped for raptors, bats, and burrowing owl. Soils, vegetation, and drainage patterns within the Project Site were inspected to determine the habitat present and suitability for species of concern. Table 4-6 provides the potential occurrence of special status species within the Project Site.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 47 Table 4-6 Summary of Special Status Species, Potential Occurrence, and Impact Common Name Status1 Effects2 Occurrence in the Project Site3 Mammals
American badger --/-- NE
Absent. Occurs in open areas with a suitable prey base (small rodents and mammals). Burrows underground. No evidence of occupation within the Project Site, and no suitable prey base was observed.

San Joaquin kit
fox FE/CT NE
Likely Absent. Species travels long distance for hunting and dens in sparsely populated areas. No denning habitat present within the Project Site.

Tipton kangaroo
rat
FE/ NE Absent. Small mammal that prefers arid grassland habitat with low shrubs. Suitable habitat not present.

Birds
California condor FE/CE NE Absent. Nests in cliff caves. No suitable habitat present or nearby.

Burrowing owl --/--SSC NE
Likely absent. Associated with a ground burrowing population (such as ground squirrels) that provide burrows. Found in open grassland with suitable prey base. No ground squirrel populations were observed. The potential for presence is low.

Swainson’s hawk --/CT NE Potentially Present. Nests in mature trees. There are mature trees north of the Project Site, but no nests observed.

Amphibians, Reptiles, and Invertebrates
Western
spadefoot PT/-- NE Absent. Requires seasonal wetlands for breeding and no suitable habitat on or near the Project Site.

Blunt-nosed
leopard
lizard
FE/CE NE Absent. Occurs in grassland habitat with drought tolerate shrubs, alkali flats, and washes.

Northern
California
legless lizard
--/-- NE
Absent. Occurs in moist, warm loose soil with plant cover. Moisture is essential. Two individuals collected in the Fresno region in 1880. No suitable habitat present within or near the Project Site.

Northwestern
pond
turtle (aka
western pond
turtle)
PT/-- NE Absent. Semi-aquatic turtle. No suitable habitat present within or near the Project Site.

Vernal pool fairy
shrimp FT/-- NE Absent. No suitable habitat onsite since there are no seasonal wetlands or ponds within the Project Site.

Crotch bumble
bee --/CC NE
Likely Absent. Most observations of this species occur in coastal areas of southern California. One record from Fresno region (1892). Inhabits grassland and scrub areas, requiring a hotter and drier environment than other bumblebee species. Unlikely that species are present.

Monarch butterfly --/-- NE Likely Absent. No suitable for this species is present within the Project Site. No evidence of milkweed on site.

Molestan blister
beetle --/-- NE Absent. It occurs in wetlands and vernal pools, but there is no specific occurrence. No suitable habitat is present within the Project Site.

Plants
Springville clarkia FT/CE NE
Absent. Occurs primarily within the Tule River watershed in Tulare County, and generally grows on decomposing granite in blue oak woodland communities. Suitable habitat not present.

Striped adobe-lily --/CT NE Absent. Requires adobe clay soils. Suitable habitat not present. Nearest known record is north of Porterville in foothill grassland habitat.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 48 San Joaquin
adobe
sunburst
FT/CE NE Absent. Grassland and oak woodland habitat with heavy adobe clay soils. Suitable soil present, but suitable habitat not present.

Keck’s checkermallow FE/-- NE Absent. Foothill woodland habitat. Suitable habitat not present.

1. Status= Listing of special status species, unless otherwise indicated • CE: California listed as Endangered
• CT: California listed as Threatened
• CC: California candidate species
• SSC: California Species of Special Concern
• FE: Federally listed as Endangered FT: Federally listed as Threatened

2. Effects = Effect determination
• NE: No Effect
• ME: May Effect, not likely to adversely affect

3. Definition of Occurrence Indicators:
• Present/Potentially: Species recorded in the area and some habitat elements in the Study Area similar to known occurrences.
• Absent/Likely Absent: Species not recorded in Study Area and suitable or critical habitat components are absent.

Source: CNDDB = California Natural Diversity Database provided by CDFG and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC). Accessed online between October 20, 2024.

Mammals: Three (3) mammals species were identified as potentially present within the region: American badger (Taxidea taxus), San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica), and Tipton kangaroo rat (Dipodomys nitratoides nitratoides). No evidence of occupation by any of these species was observed (scat, burrows, tracks). American badger digs burrows in friable soils and could be present, but no evidence of occupation was found. There is no suitable habitat for Tipton kangaroo rate within or immediately adjacent to the Project Site. They prefer arid grassland habitat. Agricultural lands are not a preferred habitat. San Joaquin kit fox could hunt for prey within the Project Site, but there is no denning habitat or evidence of occupation.

Birds: The CNDDB and the IPaC include bird species potentially present within or near the Project Site, including migratory birds. Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni) is a large raptor, a State threatened species that nests in mature trees and forages within agricultural areas. Burrowing owl (Athenea cunicularia) is a small ground-nesting owl (California species of special concern) that depends on ground-burrowing mammals for burrows for nesting but is also known to nest or overwinter in surplus pipes, cisturns or other farm structures. No evidence of raptor nests were observed. No evidence of occupation within the Project ite was found. The Project Site does provide some suitable nesting habitat for migratory birds.

Amphibians, Reptiles, and Invertebrates: Numerous invertebrate species, primarily vernal pool fairy shrimp and California linderiella are included in the CNDDB. These invertebrates occur in seasonal wetlands. No suitable habitat is present for the identified species within or near the Project Site.

Plants: The CNDDB includes four (4) special status species listed within the region. No suitable habitat for special status species is present within the Project Site.

The Biological Resource Assessment concluded that the habitat value of the Project ite is limited but the site supports some birds. The Project Site has a low potential to support species of special concern. There is no suitable habitat for special status species within the Project Site and no evidence of occupation was found.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 49 Figure 4-2 WATERS GeoViewer – Surface Waters

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 50 Figure 4-3 CNDDB Occurrences within 5-miles of the Project Site

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 51 California Fish and Game Code
Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code specifically protect native birds and raptors.

Mitigation for avoidance of impacts to nesting birds is typically necessary to comply with these Sections of the Fish and Game Code in CEQA. 12
Section 3503: It is unlawful to take, possess, or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by this code or any regulation made pursuant thereto.

Section 3503.5: It is unlawful to take, possess, or destroy any birds in the orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (birdsof-prey) or to take, possess, or destroy the nest or eggs of any such bird except as otherwise provided by this code or any regulation adopted pursuant thereto.

Section 3513: It is unlawful to take or possess any migratory nongame bird as designated in the Migratory Bird Treaty Act or any part of such migratory nongame bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the Migratory Treaty Act.

Porterville 2030 General Plan
According to the Porterville 2030 General Plan, the Project Site is within an area with known or high potential habitat for the striped adobe lily. The General Plan established goals and policies related to biological resources in the Open Space & Conservation Element, as listed below: 13 Goal OSC-G-7 Protect habitat for special status species, designated under State and federal law.

Implementing Policy OSC-I-27 Protect and enhance the natural habitat features of the Tule River and open space corridors within the Planning Area.

Implementing Policy OSC-I-28 Require protection of sensitive habitat areas and special status species in new development site designs in the following order: 1) avoidance; 2) onsite mitigation, 3) offsite mitigation, and 4) purchase of mitigation credits.

Implementing Policy OSC-I-29 Require assessments of biological resources prior to approval of any development within 300 feet of any creeks, sensitive habitat areas, or areas of potential sensitive status species.

The term “special status” species includes species classified as rare and endangered. These priorities are consistent with the California Department of Fish and Game guidelines. When habitat preservation on-site is not feasible (i.e., preserved parcels would be too small to be of any value), then off-site mitigation should occur.
12 The California Biologist's Handbook. California Fish and Game Code. Accessed on October 14, 2024, https://biologistshandbook.com/regulations/state-regulations/state-fish-and-gamecode/#:~:text=Section%203503,any%20regulation%20made%20pursuant%20thereto.%E2%80%9D 13 City of Porterville. City of Porterville 2030 General Plan: Open Space & Conservation. Accessed October 14, 2024, https://cms9files.revize.com/PortervilleCA/Document_Center/Department/Community%20Development/General%20Plan% 20Update/Chapter6OpenSpaceandConservation_000.pdf

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 52 Implementing Policy OSC-I-32 Identify and protect wildlife movement corridors that serve critical habitats to minimize wildlife-urban conflicts.

Implementing Policy OSC-I-34 Continue to require street tree planting in new development and support the City’s tree planting fund.

Implementing Policy OSC-I-35 Consult with all responsible agencies about wetland and vernal pool habitat potentially affected by development.

This consultation will occur as part of the environmental review process.

Implementing Policy OSC-I-36 Establish a “no net loss” policy for wetlands and vernal pools, including credits for land banking and off-site mitigation, and maintain a protection zone around wetlands, riparian corridors, and identified habit areas where development shall not occur, except as part of a parkway enhancement program (e.g., trails and bikeways).

Protection zones will be determined on case-by-case based on biological studies and field assessment.

The City Code of Porterville, California
The Porterville Municipal Code (PMC) establishes regulations for the removal of trees, plants, and shrubs, as described below.

Section 7-48: REMOVAL OF TREES; NOTICE REQUIRED: In the event that the moving of any building for which a permit shall have been granted pursuant to this article makes it necessary to trim, move, remove or replant any tree, plant or shrub belonging to or under the control of the city, the person to whom such permit has been granted, or his authorized representative, shall notify the director of parks and leisure services at least forty eight (48) hours prior to the time that the moving of such building will necessitate the removal of such obstructions.

Section 7-49: REMOVAL OF TREES; AUTHORIZATION: The person to whom such permit is granted as required in this article for the removal of buildings shall not, at the expiration of such time of notice or at any time, trim, move, remove, replant or otherwise disturb such trees, plants or shrubs; and such work shall be done only by the authorized workmen of the city unless otherwise approved and so ordered by the director of parks and leisure services.

Section 7-50: REMOVAL OF TREES; PAYMENT OF COSTS: The person to whom such permit is granted as required in this article for the removal of buildings shall pay to the city any and all costs or expense for the trimming, moving, removing or replanting of any trees, plants or shrubs or of any damage thereto.

4.4.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project Site is currently operated as an agricultural use with row-crop orchards and four (4) structures, including a single-family residence and detached garage, a metal equipment shed, and a wooden barn. The existing biotic site conditions and resources of the Project Site can be defined primarily as agricultural and are highly disturbed. In addition to the agricultural orchard trees, there are

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 53 several species of tree surrounding the residence and a line of palm trees along a portion of the site’s frontage to East Morton Avenue. There are no water features on site.

As described in the Environmental Setting and concluded in the Biological Resource Assessment, site conditions do not provide for habitat for any candidate, sensitive, or special-status species within the Project ite and no evidence of occupation was found. While no evidence of nests or sightings of birds were observed during the field investigation on October 26, 2024, the Project Site does provide some suitable nesting habitat for migratory birds and Swainson’s hawk due to existing mature trees north of the site. Therefore, to reduce impacts to migratory birds and Swainson’s hawk that may occur during site construction and development, the Project shall incorporate Mitigation Measure (MM) BIO-1 and MM BIO-2. Through incorporation of mitigation measures, potentially significant impacts would be reduced to less than significant with mitigation incorporated and the Project would not 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 CDFW or USFWS.

Mitigation Measure BIO-1: If Project activities must occur during the nesting season (February 1 to September 15), pre-activity nesting bird surveys shall be conducted within seven (7) days prior to the start of construction on the construction site and a 500-foot buffer for raptors.

1. If no active nests are found, no further action is required. However, existing nests may become active, and new nests may be built at any time prior to and throughout the nesting season, including when construction activities are in progress.

2. If active nests are found during the survey or at any time during construction of the Project, an avoidance buffer ranging from 50 feet to 500 feet may be required, with the avoidance buffer from any specific nest being determined by a qualified biologist. The avoidance buffer will remain in place until the biologist has determined that the young are no longer reliant on adults or the nest. Work may occur within the avoidance buffer under the approval and guidance of the biologist, but full-time monitoring may be required. The biologist shall have the ability to stop construction if nesting adults show any sign of distress.

Mitigation Measure BIO-2: A qualified biologist knowledgeable of the species should conduct a Swainson’s hawk survey of the Project Site and the surrounding 0.5-mile-radius area, in substantial compliance with the “Recommended Timing and Methodology for Swainson’s Hawk Nesting Surveys in California’s Central Valley” (Swainson’s Hawk Technical Advisory Committee 2000) during the normal bird breeding season (1 February through 15 September) prior to the start of any initial ground-disturbing activity or construction associated with each phase of project implementation, to the extent feasible.

Additional pre-construction Swainson’s hawk surveys should take place no more than 10 days prior to the start of ground-disturbing activities.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 54 ▪ If the project(s) is located within 5 miles of an active nest tree but greater than 1 mile from the nest tree, the applicant should provide a minimum of 0.75 acres of HM lands for each 1 acre of urban development authorized.
▪ If the project(s) is located within 10 miles of an active nest tree but greater than 5 miles from the nest tree, the applicant should provide a minimum of 0.5 acres of HM lands for each 1 acre of urban development authorized.

The project applicant should provide for the long-term management of the HM lands by funding a management endowment, the interest of which should be used for managing the HM lands. The rate per HM acre should be established through consultation with CDFW. In addition to fee title acquisition of grassland habitat, mitigation could occur by the purchase of conservation or suitable agricultural easements. Suitable agricultural easements would include areas limited to production of crops such as alfalfa, dry land and irrigated pasture, and cereal grain crops.

Vineyards, orchards, cotton fields, and other dense vegetation do not provide adequate foraging habitat. b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or the U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service?
No Impact. According to the General Plan, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Biological Resource Assessment, there are no known riparian habitats or other sensitive natural communities identified on the Project site or within the immediate vicinity (i.e., within a 0.5 radius) of the Project.

In addition, the site does not contain any water features that would provide habitat for riparian species. For these reasons, it can be determined that the Project site does not provide any riparian habitat or sensitive natural community habitat and thus, no impact would occur because of the Project. 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? No Impact. The Project site is not within or adjacent to a riparian area nor does the site contain water features. A search of the NWI shows no federally protected wetlands (including but not limited to marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) on the Project site. During the field investigation on October 26, 2024, the entire Project site was walked to look for any evidence of potential wetlands/waters or any other aquatic habitat (either perennial or seasonal), and none were present. As such, the Project site does not contain any state or federally protected wetlands or water features that could become a wetland. As a result, it can be determined that the Project would not result in any impact on State or federally protected wetlands and no impact would occur because of the Project. d) Would the Project 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. Wildlife movement corridors are linear habitats that function to connect two (2) or more areas of significant wildlife habitat. These corridors may function on a local level as links between small habitat patches (e.g., streams in urban settings) or may provide critical connections between regionally significant habitats (e.g., deer movement corridors). Wildlife corridors typically include vegetation and topography that facilitate the movements of wild animals from one area of suitable habitat to another, in order to fulfill foraging, breeding, and territorial needs. These corridors often provide cover and protection from predators that may be lacking in

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 55 surrounding habitats. Wildlife corridors generally include riparian zones and similar linear expanses of contiguous habitat.

The habitat value of the Project Site for wildlife is limited, and the site does not contain suitable habitat that could support wildlife species in nesting, breeding, foraging, or escaping from predators. There is no evidence that the plant communities (non-native herbaceous land cover) present in the area support wildlife movement corridors or wildlife nursery sites. The Project Site and its surroundings are heavily impacted by human activity (disking, residential and commercial uses, agricultural operations, vehicular traffic, etc.) so overall use by wildlife is likely low. Due to these conditions, it can be determined that the Project would not interfere with wildlife movement and a less than significant impact would result from the Project. e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
Less than Significant Impact. The General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element outlines policies related to conservation of biological resources as listed in the Environmental Setting. Due to the lack of any identified specialstatus species or habitat for special-status species on the Project Site or within the Project vicinity, the Project would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources. The Porterville Municipal Code (PMC) also set forth provisions on removal of trees. The Project would be subject to these standards. Therefore, the Project would have less than significant impact.
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? No Impact. The City of Porterville is within two (2) habitat conservation plans, including the Recovery Plan for Upland Species of the San Joaquin Valley and the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle Habitat Conservation Plan.

According to the General Plan, the Project Site is not within an area with valley elderberry longhorn beetle occurrences or set aside for the conservation of habitats, plant communities, or wildlife species. As such, the Project would not conflict or interfere with HCP. For these reasons, the Project would have no impact.

4.4.3 Mitigation Measures
The Project shall implement and incorporate, as applicable, the Biological Resources-related mitigation measures as identified above and in the MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM contained in SECTION 5.

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4.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES
Would the Project:

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 as defined in Section
15064.5?

b) Cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to Section
15064.5?

c) Disturb any human remains, including
those interred outside of formal
cemeteries?

4.5.1 Environmental Setting
Generally, the term ‘cultural resources’ describes property types such as prehistoric and historical archaeological sites, buildings, bridges, roadways, and tribal cultural resources. As defined by CEQA, cultural resources are considered “historical resources” that meet criteria in Section 15064.5(a) of the CEQA Guidelines. If a Lead Agency determines that a Project may have a significant effect on a historical resource, then the Project is determined to have a significant impact on the environment. No further environmental review is required if a cultural resource is not found to be a historical resource.

California Historical Resource Information System Record Search The Southern San Joaquin Valley Information Center (SJVIC) was requested to conduct a California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) Record Search for the Project Site and surrounding “Cultural Resource Project Area” (0.5-mile radius from perimeter of Project Site). Results of the CHRIS Record Search were provided on October 7, 2024 (Record Search File Number: 24-446). Full results are provided in Appendix D.

The CHRIS Record Searches generally review file information based on results of Class III pedestrian reconnaissance surveys of project sites conducted by qualified individuals or consultant firms which are required to be submitted, along with official state forms properly completed for each identified resource, to the Regional Archaeological Information Center. Guidelines for the format and content of all types of archaeological reports have been developed by the California Office of Historic Preservation, and reports will be reviewed by the regional information centers to determine whether they meet those requirements.

The results of the SJVIC CHRIS Record Search indicate:
a) There has been one (1) previous cultural resource study completed within the Project Site. b) There have been nine (9) cultural resource studies conducted within one-half mile radius of the Project Site.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 57 c) There is one (1) recorded cultural resource within the Project Site, P-54-003143, the A. G. Shultz House.

This recorded cultural resource has a 3S status, indicating that it appears eligible for National Register (NR) as an individual property through survey evaluation.
d) There are 162 recorded cultural resources within one-half mile radius of the Project Site, consisting of historic era canals, a monument, train station, rail roads, a park, roads, trash scatter, community center, and distribution lines.

Further, the SJVIC provided the following comments and recommendations:
(1) Prior to ground disturbance or alteration or demolition of any existing structures more than 45 years old, we recommend a qualified, professional consultant conduct a field survey to determine if cultural resources are present and the structures first be recorded and evaluated for historical significance. (2) If any cultural resources are unearthed during any ground disturbance activities, all work must halt in the area of the find and a qualified, professional consultant should be called out to assess the findings and make the appropriate mitigation recommendations.
(3) Contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) for a list of Native American individuals/organizations that can assist with information regarding traditional, cultural, and religious heritage values that may not be included in the CHRIS Inventory. Consult NAHC’s "Sacred Lands Inventory" file to determine what sacred resources, if any, exist within this Project Site and the way in which these resources might be managed.

California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC)
A consultation list of tribes with traditional lands or cultural places located within Tulare County was requested and received from the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) on October 2, 2024. The listed tribes include Dumna Wo-Wah Tribal Government, Kern Vally Indian Community, Kitanemuk & Yowlumne Tejon Indians, Table Mountain Rancheria, Traditional Choinumni Tribe, Tubatulabals of Kern Vally, Tule River Indian Tribe, and Wuksachi Indian Tribe/Eshom Valley Band. The NAHC also conducted a Sacred Lands File (SFL) check which received negative results. Correspondence is provided in Appendix E.

AB 52 and SB 18 Tribal Consultation
The City of Porterville conducted formal tribal consultation pursuant to AB 52 (Chapter 532, Statutes 2014) and SB 18 (Chapter 905, Statutes 2004) on October 4, 2024, utilizing the consultation list of tribes received from the City of Porterville in correlation with the list of tribes received from NAHC. All eight (8) tribes listed above were included in the formal consultation. Consultation for AB 52 ended on November 3, 2024, and consultation for SB 18 ended on January 2, 2025. On October 15, 2024, a return to sender memo from the Tubatulabals of Kern Valley was sent back to the City. The City received an from Chairperson David Alvarez of the Traditional Choinumni Tribe stating, “This project is out of our historical land base. Therefore, we are unable to comment on this project. Additionally, the City was sent a letter from Chairperson Michelle Heredia-Cordova of Table Mountain Rancheria stating, “We appreciate receiving the notice; however, this project site is beyond our area of interest.” The City has received no other correspondence to date.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 58 Porterville 2030 General Plan
According to the Porterville 2030 General Plan, there are three (3) National Historic Register resources, including Zalud House, U.S. Post Office - Porterville Main, and First Congregational Church, and two (2) State Historic Register resource, including Tule River Stage Station and First Tule River Reservation, within the city limits. None of the resources are within or adjacent to the Project Site.

The Porterville 2030 General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element identifies the following policies related to historic, archeological, and paleontological resources.

Guiding Policy OSC-G-11 Identify and protect archaeological, paleontological, and historic resources.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-71 Update the City’s inventory of historic resources to determine sites or buildings of federal, State, or local historic significance.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-72 Develop an agreement with Native American representatives for consultation in the cases where new development may result in disturbance to Native American sites.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-73 Require that new development analyze and avoid any potential impacts to archaeological, paleontological, and historic resources by:
• Requiring a records review for development proposed in areas that are considered archaeologically sensitive, including hillsides and near the Tule River; • Studying the potential effects of development and construction (as required by CEQA); • Developing, where appropriate, mitigation measures to minimize potential impacts; and • Implementing appropriate measures to avoid the identified impacts.

In the event that historical or archaeological resources are accidentally discovered during construction, the City will require that grading activity in the immediate area cease. A qualified archaeologist will then be required to make an immediate evaluation and recommend avoidance measures or appropriate mitigation.

4.5.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to Section 15064.5? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. Based on the CHRIS Records Search conducted on October 7, 2024, there is one (1) recorded site on the Project Site: P-54-003143, A. G. Shulz House. This recorded cultural resource has a 3S status, indicating that it appears eligible for National Register (NR) as an individual property through survey evaluation. In order to ensure that the existing structure is not of historical significance at the time of demolition, the Project shall incorporate Mitigation Measure (MM) CUL-1 to mitigate the destruction or alteration of any potential historical structures.

Mitigation Measure CUL-1: Prior to permit approval for development on sites with existing buildings and/or structures that are 45 years or older, a historical resources evaluation shall be completed for that individual site to confirm if the existing buildings and/or structures within these sites qualify as historical resources as defined by Section 15064.5(a) of CEQA Guidelines. The evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 59 Standards (PQS) in architectural history or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive-level evaluation in accordance with the guidelines and best practices promulgated by the State Office of Historic Preservation to identify any potential historical resources within the proposed project area. All properties 45 years of age or older shall be evaluated within their historic context and documented in a report meeting the State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines. All evaluated properties shall be documented on Department of Parks and Recreation Series 523 Forms. The report shall be submitted to the City for review and concurrence.

Application of the Standards shall be overseen by a qualified architectural historian or historic architect meeting the PQS. In conjunction with any development application that may affect the historical resource, a report identifying and specifying the treatment of character-defining features and construction activities shall be provided to the City for review and concurrence, in addition to the historical resources evaluation.

If significant historical resources are identified on a development site and compliance with the Standards and or avoidance is not feasible, the applicant or developer shall provide a report explaining why compliance with the Standards and or avoidance is not feasible for the city’sreview and approval. Site-specific mitigation measures shall be established and undertaken, including, but not limited to, documentation of the historical resource in the form of a Historic American Buildings Survey-Like report. The report shall be commissioned by the project applicant or their consultant to comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Architectural and Engineering Documentation and shall generally follow the Historic American Buildings Survey Level III requirements, including digital photographic recordation, detailed historic narrative report, and compilation of historic research. The documentation shall be completed by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the PQS and submitted to the City prior to issuance of any permits for demolition or alteration of the historical resource.

In the event of the accidental discovery and recognition of previously unknown historical resources before or during construction activities, the Project shall also incorporate Mitigation Measure CUL-2 to ensure that construction activities do not result in significant impacts to any potential historical resources discovered below ground surface.

Mitigation Measure CUL-2: In order to avoid the potential for impacts to historic and prehistoric archaeological resources, the following measures shall be implemented, as necessary, in conjunction with the construction of each phase of the Project:
a. Cultural Resources Alert on Project Plans. The project proponent shall note on any plans that require ground disturbing excavation that there is a potential for exposing buried cultural resources. b. Stop Work Near any Discovered Cultural Resources. Should previously unidentified cultural resources be discovered during construction of the project, the project proponent shall cease work within 50 feet of the

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 60 resources, and the City of Porterville shall be notified immediately. The project archaeologist meeting the SOI’s PQS for archeology shall immediately evaluate the find pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.2.
c. Mitigation for Discovered Cultural Resources. If the professional archaeologist determines that any cultural resources exposed during construction constitute a historical resource and/or unique archaeological resource, he/she shall notify the project proponent and other appropriate parties of the evaluation and recommended mitigation measures to mitigate the impact to a less-than-significant level. If the archaeologist and, if applicable, a Native American monitor or other interested tribal representative determine it is appropriate, cultural materials collected from the site shall be processed and analyzed in a laboratory according to standard archaeological procedures. The age of the materials shall be determined using radiocarbon dating and/or other appropriate procedures; lithic artifacts, faunal remains, and other cultural materials shall be identified and analyzed according to current professional standards. The significance of the site(s) shall be evaluated according to the criteria of the CRHR and if applicable, NRHP.

The results of the investigations shall be presented in a technical report following the standards of the California Office of Historic Preservation publication “Archaeological Resource Management Reports:

Recommended Content and Format (1990 or latest edition).” Mitigation measures may include avoidance, preservation in-place, recordation, additional archaeological testing and data recovery, among other options. Treatment of any significant cultural resources shall be undertaken with the approval of the City of Porterville. The archaeologist shall document the resources using DPR 523 forms and file said forms with the California Historical Resources Information System, Southern San Joaquin Valley Information Center (SSJVIC). The resources shall be photo documented and collected by the archaeologist for submittal to the City of Porterville. The archaeologist shall be required to submit to the City of Porterville for review and approval a report of the findings and method of curation or protection of the resources. This report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC after completion. Recommendations contained therein shall be implemented throughout the remainder of ground disturbance activities. Further grading or sitework within the area of discovery shall not be allowed until the preceding steps have been taken. d. Data Recovery. Should the results of item c. yield resources that meet CRHR significance standards and if the resource cannot be avoided by project construction, the project applicant shall ensure that all feasible recommendations for mitigation of archaeological impacts are incorporated into the final design and approved by the City prior to construction. Any necessary data recovery excavation, conducted to exhaust the data potential of significant archaeological sites, shall be carried out by a qualified archaeologist meeting the SOI’s PQS for archeology. Data recovery shall be conducted in accordance with a research design reviewed and approved by the City, prepared in advance of fieldwork, and using the appropriate archaeological field and laboratory methods consistent with the California Office of Historic Preservation Planning Bulletin 5, Guidelines for Archaeological Research Design, or the latest edition thereof. If the archaeological resource(s) of concern are Native American in origin, the qualified archaeologist shall confer with the City and local California Native American tribe(s). As applicable, the final Data Recovery reports shall be submitted to the City prior to issuance of any grading or construction permit. Recommendations contained therein shall be implemented throughout all ground disturbance activities. Recommendations may include, but would not be limited to, Cultural Resources Monitoring, and/or measures for unanticipated discoveries. The final report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC upon completion.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 61 e. Disposition of Cultural Resources. Upon coordination with the City of Porterville, any pre-historic archaeological artifacts recovered shall be donated to an appropriate Tribal custodian or a qualified scientific institution where they would be afforded applicable cultural resources laws and guidelines. f. Cultural Resources Monitoring. If mitigation measures are recommended by reports written under item c. or d., the project applicant shall retain a qualified archaeologist to monitor project-related, grounddisturbing activities which may include the following but not limited to: grubbing, vegetation removal, trenching, grading, and/or excavations. The archaeological monitor shall coordinate with any Native American monitor as required. Monitoring logs must be completed by the archaeologist daily. Cultural resources monitoring may be reduced for the project if the qualified archaeologist finds it appropriate to reduce the monitoring efforts. Upon completion of ground disturbance for the project, a final report must be submitted to the City for review and approval documenting the monitoring efforts, cultural resources find, and resource disposition. The final report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC. b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to Section 15064.5?
Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. Based on the CHRIS Records Search conducted October 7, 2024, there are no known archeological resources pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5 on the Project Site. While there is no evidence that archeological resources exist, there is some possibility that existing structures qualify as historical resources or hidden and buried resources may exist with no surface evidence that may be impacted by future physical development. In the event of the accidental discovery and recognition of previously unknown historical resources before or during construction activities, the Project shall incorporate MM CUL-2 as described under criterion a) to assure construction activities do not result in significant impacts to any potential archeological resources discovered above or below ground surface. Thus, if such resources were discovered, implementation of the required mitigation measures would reduce the impact to less than significant. As a result, the Project would have a less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. c) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Less Than Significant Impact. There is no evidence that human remains exist on the Project Site. Nevertheless, there is some possibility that a non-visible buried site may exist and may be uncovered during ground disturbing construction activities which would constitute a significant impact. If any human remains are discovered during construction, then the Project would be subject to CCR Section 15064.5(e), PRC Section 5097.98, and California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5. Regulations contained in these sections address and protect human burial remains. Compliance with these regulations would ensure impacts on human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries, are less than significant.

4.5.3 Mitigation Measures
The Project shall implement and incorporate, as applicable, the Cultural Resources related mitigation measures as identified above and in the MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM contained in SECTION 5.

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4.6 ENERGY
Would the Project:

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?
X
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or
local plan for renewable energy or
energy efficiency?
X

4.6.1 Environmental Setting
Appendix F – Energy Conservation of the CEQA Guidelines requires consideration of energy implications in Project decisions, including a discussion of the potential energy impacts with emphasis on avoiding or reducing inefficient, wasteful, and unnecessary consumption of energy resources (Public Resources Code Section 21100(b)(3)). Per Appendix F, a Project would be considered inefficient, wasteful, and unnecessary if it violated existing energy standards, had a negative effect on local and regional energy supplies and requirements for additional capacity, had a negative effect on peak and base period demands for electricity and other energy forms, and effected energy resources. Appendix F includes the following criteria to determine whether a threshold of significance is met:

1. The Project energy requirements and its energy use efficiencies by amount and fuel type for each stage of the Project including construction, operation, maintenance and/or removal. If appropriate, the energy intensiveness of materials may be discussed.

2. The effects of the Project on local and regional energy supplies and on requirements for additional capacity.

3. The effects of the Project on peak and base period demands for electricity and other forms of energy.

4. The degree to which the Project complies with existing energy standards.

5. The effects of the Project on energy resources.

6. The Project’s projected transportation energy use requirements and its overall use of efficient transportation alternatives.

Building Energy Efficiency Standards – Title 24
The California Energy Commission updates the Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Parts 6 and 11) every three years as part of the California Code of Regulations. The standards were established in 1978 in an effort to reduce the state’s energy consumption. They apply for new construction of, and additions and alterations to, residential and nonresidential buildings and relate to various energy efficiencies including but not limited to ventilation, air conditioning, and lighting. The California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Part 11, Title 24, California Code of Regulations, was developed in 2007 to meet the state goals for reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions pursuant to AB32. CALGreen covers five (5) categories: planning and design, energy efficiency, water

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 63 efficiency and conservation, material and resource efficiency, and indoor environmental quality. 14 The 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards went into effect on January 1, 2023. Additionally, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) oversees air pollution control efforts, regulations, and programs that contribute to reduction of energy consumption. Compliance with these energy efficiency regulations and programs ensures that development will not result in wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy sources.

California Energy Action Plan
The Energy Action Plan (EAP) for California was approved in 2003 and updated in 2008. The California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) approved the Energy Action Plan (EAP) for California in 2003, with an update in 2008. The 2008 EAP established goals and next steps to integrate and coordinate energy efficiency demand and response programs and actions. 15
Methodology
CalEEMod is a statewide model designed to provide a uniform platform for government agencies, land use planners, and environmental professionals to quantify potential criteria pollutant and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from land use projects. The model quantifies direct emissions from construction and operation (including vehicle use), as well as indirect emissions, such as emissions from energy use, solid waste disposal, vegetation planting and/or removal, and water use. The model also identifies mitigation measures to reduce criteria pollutant and GHG emissions.

4.6.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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 Project would consist of the development of 160 residential dwelling units on two parcels totaling 25.47-acre . Energy would be consumed through Project construction and operations. Energy outputs for short-term construction and long-term operations were estimated using CalEEMod (Appendix A). Traffic impacts related to vehicle trips were considered through a Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) analysis contained in Section 4.17. Results are summarized in Table 4-7. Based on the data, the energy demand associated with the proposed Project would be less than one (1) percent of Tulare County’s total demand (Criterion 1).

Table 4-7 Project Energy Consumption
Energy Type1
Project
Annual Energy Consumption
Tulare County
Annual Energy Consumption
Project Percentage of
County Consumption
Electricity2 1.364113 GWh 4,957.696254 GWh 0.0275%
Natural Gas2 4,654.404 MMBTu 16,462,910.9 MMBTu 0.0283% Notes:
14 California Department of General Services. (2020). 2019 California Green Building Standards Code. Accessed on October 18, 2024, https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/CGBC2019P3
15 State of California. (2008). Energy Action Plan 2008 Update. Accessed on October 18, 2024, https://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/word_pdf/REPORT/28715.pdf

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1. Southern California Edison (SCE) would serve the site for both electricity and natural gas.

2. Energy consumption data for Tulare County is provided by the California Energy Commission, “Electricity Consumption by County” accessed on October 18, 2024, http://ecdms.energy.ca.gov/elecbycounty.aspx and “Gas Consumption by County” accessed on October 18, 2024, https://ecdms.energy.ca.gov/gasbycounty.aspx Construction
Construction would be short-term and temporary. There are no unusual project characteristics or construction processes that would require the use of equipment that would be more energy intensive than is used for comparable activities. Construction activities would include removal/demolition of all on-site trees and existing structures/improvements, typical site preparation, grading, paving, architectural coating, and trenching – all of which would require the transportation of building materials and equipment. Therefore, the primary source of energy for construction activities would be diesel and gasoline (i.e., petroleum fuels). All construction equipment shall conform to current emissions standards and related fuel efficiencies including applicable CARB regulations (Airborne Toxic Control Measure), California Code of Regulations (Title 13, Motor Vehicles), and Title 24 standards.

Compliance with existing regulations would ensure that the short-term, temporary construction activities would not result in wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources consistent with Criterion 4.

Operations
Operations would involve heating, cooling, equipment, and vehicle trips. Energy consumption related to operations would be associated with natural gas, electricity, and fuel. As for new construction, the Project would also be required to meet all mandatory requirements for residential buildings as outlined in the 2022 Energy Code.

Mandatory requirements apply to building envelopes, ventilation and indoor air quality, space conditioning systems, water heating systems, outdoor and indoor lighting, electric power distribution, covered process for pools, solar ready buildings, and electric ready buildings. Compliance would be verified through the building permit process. Therefore, the Project would meet mandatory state building energy codes, which are designed to reduce wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy sources, consistent with Criterion 4.

Energy consumption and peak demand for the state are forecasted in Volume IV – California Energy Demand Forecast of the CEC’s Integrated Energy Policy Report. As shown in Figure 10 and Figure 4 of the Volume IV Report, the CEC forecasts a 1.3 to 2.3 percent annual average growth rate for electricity and a 0.1 to 0.9 percent annual average growth rate for natural gas between 2021 and 2030. The Project’s anticipated operational energy consumption for electricity and natural gas are shown in Table 4-7. The anticipated consumption of electricity and natural gas would represent 0.0275 percent and 0.0283 percent based on Countywide usage, which would be significantly below CEC’s forecast. Therefore, the Project would not require additional energy capacity or supplies in accordance with Criterion 2. In addition, as a residential development, energy consumption can be expected to peak in the day similar to other residential developments. Through compliance with energy conservation requirements under the 2022 Energy Code, the Project would not result in unique or more intensive peak or base period electricity demand in accordance with Criterion 3.

Furthermore, Southern California Edison (SCE), the city’s electricity provider, is subject to the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) which requires investor-owned utilities, electric service providers, and community choice aggregators to increase procurement from eligible renewable resources to 33 percent of total procurement by 2020 to 60 percent of total procurement by 2030. The increase in reliance of renewable resources further ensures

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Development of the Project Site would also result in fuel consumption through vehicle trips. The Project would generate an estimated 5,601,284 annual vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per CalEEMod, which would consume approximately 244,598 gallons of fuel per year (5,601,284 trips divided by 22.9 miles per gallon). This is expected to account for less than one (1) percent of diesel and gasoline consumed from vehicle trips in Tulare County.

Therefore, energy usage associated with vehicle trips for the proposed Project would be minimal in comparison to the gasoline and diesel fuel consumption for the County. In addition, the Project does not propose any unusual features that would result in excessive long-term operational fuel consumption (Criterion 2). Further, annual energy use related to vehicles is expected to decrease over time as a result of vehicle fuel efficiency standards.

Therefore, the Project would not cause wasteful, inefficient, and unnecessary consumption of building energy during Project operation, or preempt future energy development or future energy conservation. A less than significant impact would occur.
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? Less than Significant Impact. As discussed under criterion a), the construction and operations of the Project would be subject to compliance with applicable energy efficiency regulations including CALGreen, Title 24, and CARB.

Additionally, the General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element established policies to reduce and conserve energy use in existing and new development, including adopting incentives for green building standards, publishing best practices guide on the City website, and ensuring City code allow for green building techniques. Since the General Plan energy conservation policies are implemented at the city level, the Project would not conflict with said policies. In addition, state law ensures construction vehicle idling will be limited. Therefore, through compliance, the Project would not conflict with or obstruct any state or local plan for energy efficiency and a less than significant impact would occur as a result of the Project.

4.6.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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4.7 GEOLOGY AND SOILS
Would the Project:

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.

X
ii. Strong seismic ground
shaking? X
iii. Seismic-related ground
failure, including
liquefaction?
X
iv. Landslides? X
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the
loss of topsoil? X
c) Be located on a geologic unit 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?
X
d) Be located on expansive soil, as
defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform
Building Code (1994), creating
substantial risks to life or property?
X
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 waste
water?
X
f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or
unique geologic feature?
X

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4.7.1 Environmental Setting
The City of Porterville is located along the western slope of a northwest-trending belt of rocks comprising the Sierra Nevada and within the southern portion of the Cascade Range. The City is within the Sierra Nevada geomorphic province, which is primarily composed of cretaceous granitic plutons and remnants of Paleozoic and Mesozoic metavolcanic and metasedimentary rocks, and Cenozoic volcan and sedimentary rocks. The City’s Planning Area elevation ranges between 400 and 800 feet, with the eastern portion that is within the Sierra Nevada foothills reaching almost 1,800 feet. Geographically, the city, inclusive of the Project Site, has stable geological formation and is in a seismically inactive region. 16 A brief discussion of the likelihood of seismic activities occurring in the City’s Planning Area, inclusive of the Project Site, is provided below. The discussion is based on the 2023 Tulare County Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) as well as the Porterville 2030 General Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR).17
Faulting
There are no known active faults in the City’s Planning Area.18No Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault zoning has been established for the City’s Planning Area. The nearest active faults to the Planning Area are the Owens Valley fault group, 40 miles to the east, and White Wolf fault, 56 miles to the south.19Due to the distance from an active fault, there is low potential for ground rupture in the City.

Ground Shaking
The City of Porterville is in Seismic Risk Zone III, which is a zone expected to experience moderate effects from earthquakes. Major historical earthquakes, including the 1906 San Francisco, 1952 Kern County, and 1983 Coalinga, were felt by residents and caused minor to moderate property damage in the city. According to the HMP’s hazards ranking, ground shaking is of low significance in the City.

Liquefaction
Liquefaction primarily occurs in areas of recently deposited sands and silts and in areas of high groundwater levels (where the water table is 30 feet below the surface). Susceptible areas include sloughs and marshes that have been filled in and developed over. In addition to necessary soil conditions, liquefaction is induced by intense and prolonged ground shaking, usually above a ground acceleration of 0.3g before liquefaction occurs within sandy soil with relative densities typical of the San Joaquin alluvial deposits. Based on historic aerial imagery and search of the National Wetlands Inventory (Section 4.10), Project site does not include former or current waters (streams, 16 City of Porterville. (2007). Draft Environmental Impact Report 2023 General Plan (SCH No. 2006011033). 17 Tulare County Office of Emergency Services. (2023). Tulare County Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Accessed on December 27, 2024, https://tularecounty.ca.gov/rma/rma-documents/planning-documents/tulare-county-2023- multi-jurisdictional-local-hazard-mitigation-plan-mjlhmp/ 18 According to the California Department of Conservation, “An active fault, for the purposes of the Alquist-Priolo Act, is one that has ruptured in the last 11,000 years.”
19 California Department of Conservation. “CGS Seismic Hazard Program: Alquist-Priolo Fault Hazard Zones.” Accessed on October 18, 2024, https://gis.data.ca.gov/maps/ee92a5f9f4ee4ec5aa731d3245ed9f53/explore?location=37.213952%2C117.946341%2C7.19

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 68 drainages, wetlands) that have been drained, filled, and developed. Additionally, the city is far from faults and consists of stable geological formation. As such, the city is in an area with low susceptibility to liquefaction.

Erosion
Wind and flowing water are the primary agents of erosion in the San Joaquin Valley. The primary types of erosion identified by the HMP are erosion and slumping of soils that can occur along bluffs along the Kaweah, Kern, and Tule Rivers.

Ground Subsidence
Ground subsidence is the settling or sinking of surface soil deposits with little or no horizontal motion. Soils with high silt or clay content are subject to subsidence. According to the HMP, the city is not exposed to earthquake induced landslide risk.

Subsurface Soils
A search of the Web Soil Survey by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service indicates that the Project Site comprises of one (1) soil type: Porterville clay, 2 to 9 percent slopes well drained, with no potential of flooding or ponding. The depth to the water table is more than 80 inches. 20 California Building Code
The California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 24 is assigned to the California Building Standards Commission, which, by law, is responsible for coordinating all building standards. The California Building Code incorporates by reference the International Building Code with necessary California amendments. About one-third of the text within the California Building Standards Code has been tailored for California earthquake conditions. These standards are applicable to all new buildings and are required to provide the necessary safety from earthquake related effects emanating from fault activity.

Porterville 2030 General Plan
The Porterville 2030 General Plan includes policies relevant to natural hazards in the Public Health and Safety Element since minimizing risks from geologic and seismic hazards, as listed below.

Guiding Policy PHS-G-1 Minimize risks of property damage and personal injury posed by geologic and seismic hazards.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-1 Amend the Zoning Ordinance to include provisions for a geologic hazards abatement district for hillside areas to ensure that geologic hazards are properly mitigated by developers or avoided prior to, or during, development.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-2 Maintain and enforce appropriate building standards and codes to avoid and/or reduce risks associated with geologic constraints and to ensure that all new construction is designed to meet current safety regulations.
20 United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service. “Web Soil Survey.” Accessed on October 23, 2023, https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 69 Implementation Policy PHS-I-3 Provide information and incentives for property owners to rehabilitate existing buildings using construction techniques to protect against seismic hazards.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-4 Support continued investigation by State agencies of geologic conditions within the City’s Planning Area to promote public awareness of potential geologic and seismic hazards.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-5 Require, as part of the preliminary soil report, a construction dust management plan when it has been determined that soils contain naturally-occurring asbestos.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-6 If asbestos is present require construction work be done when soil moisture is sufficient to adequately compact the tread and prevent visible dust, which may contain airborne asbestos emissions.

4.7.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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.

No Impact. There are no known active earthquake faults in Porterville, inclusive of the Project Site, nor is Porterville within an Alquist-Priolo earthquake fault zone as established by the Alquist-Priolo Fault Zoning Act. Thus, the Project would not cause rupture of a known earthquake fault and therefore, would have no impact. ii. Strong seismic ground shaking?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project Site within Seismic Risk Zone III, which is a zone expected to experience moderate effects from earthquakes. The Project would be required to comply with current seismic protection standards in the CBC which would significantly limit potential damage to structures and thereby reduce potential impacts including the risk of loss, injury, or death. Compliance with the CBC would ensure a less than significant impact.
iii. Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? Less than Significant Impact. There are no known active earthquake faults in Porterville and Porterville has a limited severity for ground shaking. Due to the distance from an active fault, there is low potential for ground rupture. The General Plan and HMP identifies moderate risks of liquefaction near the Tule River, however, the Project Site is approximately 1.1 miles north of the Tule River. Further, the Project Site is primarily made up of clay soils that are well drained, which are less susceptible to liquefaction than silt or sands. As such, the Project Site is in an area with low susceptibility to liquefaction with no known geologic hazards or unstable soil conditions. In addition, development would be required to comply with CBC, the City’s grading and drainage standards, and specific requirements that address liquefaction. For these reasons, the Project does not have any aspect that could result in seismic-related ground failure including liquefaction and a less than significant impact would occur because of the Project.

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No Impact. The topography of the Project Site is relatively flat with stable, native soils, and the site is not in the immediate vicinity of rivers or creeks that would be more susceptible to landslides. Therefore, no impact would occur because of the Project.
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? Less than Significant Impact. Soil erosion and loss of topsoil can be caused by natural factors, such as wind and flowing water, and human activity. Development of the Project Site would require typical site preparation activities such as grading and trenching which may result in the potential for short-term soil disturbance or erosion impacts.

Construction would also involve the use of water which may cause further soil disturbance. Such impacts would be addressed through compliance with regulations set by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Namely, the SWRCB requires sites larger than one (1) acre to comply with the General Permit for Discharges of Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity. The General Permit requires the development of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) by a certified Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD). The SWPPP estimates the sediment risk associated with construction activities and includes best management practices (BMP) to control erosion. BMPs specific to erosion control cover erosion, sediment, tracking, and waste management controls. Implementation of the SWPPP minimizes the potential for the Project to result in substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil. With these provisions in place, the impact to soil and topsoil by the Project would be considered less than significant. c) Be located on a geologic unit 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? Less than Significant Impact. Ground subsidence is the settling or sinking of surface soil deposits with little or no horizontal motion. Soils with high silt or clay content are subject to subsidence. Subsidence typically occurs in areas with groundwater withdrawal or oil or natural gas extraction. The topography of the site is relatively flat with stable, native soils and no apparent unique or significant landforms. Furthermore, the Project Site is in an area expected to experience moderate effects from seismic activity due to its distance from faults. Such factors minimize the potential for other geologic hazards such as landslides, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse.

Therefore, any development on the native, stable soils is unlikely to become unstable and result in geologic hazards.

In addition, the Project would be required to comply with current seismic protection standards in the CBC which would significantly limit potential seismic-related hazards such as landslides, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse. Compliance with the CBC would ensure a less than significant impact. d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994, as updated), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project Site is relatively flat with native soils of Porterville clay, which are considered expansive as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code. Therefore, construction on the Project Site would be subject to the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) design standards to mitigate for potential risks, specifically Section 1808.6 Design for expansive soils.

Mitigation Measure GEO-1: Subsequent to a preliminary City review of the project grading plans, a soils report, inclusive of information on expansive soils, shall be conducted. The following procedures shall be followed:

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 71 • If expansive soils are not found, excavation and/or construction activities can commence. • If there is evidence that the Project ite includes expansive soils, foundations for buildings and structures founded on expansive soils shall be designed in accordance with IBC Section 1808.6.1 or 1808.6.2 unless 1) the expansive soil is removed in accordance with Section 1808.6.3 or 2) the building official approves stabilization of the soil in accordance with Section 1808.6.4.

Thus, incorporation of Mitigation Measure GEO-1 would reduce potentially significant impacts to less than significant.
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 Project would connect to the City’s wastewater services. Thus, no permanent septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems would be installed, and no impact would occur. f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. There are no known paleontological resources or unique geological features known to the City in the Project Site. Nevertheless, there is some possibility that a non-visible, buried site may exist and may be uncovered during ground disturbing construction activities which would constitute a significant impact. However, Mitigation Measure (MM) GEO-2 requires that if unknown paleontological resources are discovered during construction activities, work within a 25-foot buffer would cease until a qualified paleontologist determined the appropriate course of action. With implementation of MM GEO-2, the Project would have a less-than-significant impact.

Mitigation Measure GEO-2: If any paleontological resources are encountered during ground-disturbance activities, all work within 25 feet of the find shall halt until a qualified paleontologist as defined by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology Standard Procedures for the Assessment and Mitigation of Adverse Impacts to Paleontological Resources (2010), can evaluate the find and make recommendations regarding treatment.

Paleontological resource materials may include resources such as fossils, plant impressions, or animal tracks preserved in rock. The qualified paleontologist shall contact the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County or another appropriate facility regarding any discoveries of paleontological resources.

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4.7.3 Mitigation Measures
The Project shall implement and incorporate, as applicable, the Geology and Soils-related mitigation measures as identified above and in the MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM contained in SECTION 5.

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4.8 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Would the Project:

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?
X
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy
or regulation adopted for the purpose
of reducing the emissions of
greenhouse gases?
X

4.8.1 Environmental Setting
In assessing the significance of impacts from GHG emissions, Section 15064.4(b) of the CEQA Guidelines states that a lead agency may consider the following:
• The extent to which the project may increase or reduce GHG emissions as compared to the environmental setting;
• Whether the project emissions exceed a threshold of significance that the lead agency determines applies to the project;
• The extent to which the project complies with regulations or requirements adopted to implement a statewide, regional, or local plan for the reduction or mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan and guidance from the SJVAPCD are discussed below and are utilized as thresholds of significance. 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan
The CARB 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan is the adopted statewide plan for reduction and mitigation of GHGs to implement Assembly Bill (AB) 1279. AB 1279 was issued on August 12, 2022, to require California to achieve “net zero greenhouse gas emissions” as soon as possible and to further reduce anthropogenic GHG emissions thereafter.

It sets a statewide goal to reduce emissions 85% below 1990 levels no later than 2045.

Consequently, the Scoping Plan involves several measures for cost-effective reduction of GHG emissions, including continuing existing programs such as Renewable Portfolio Standard, Advanced Clean Cars, Low Carbon Fuel Standard, etc., and achieving new mandates to decarbonize several sectors. Along with reducing emissions, environmental justice policies are included to address the ongoing air quality disparities.

Appendix D of the 2022 Scoping Plan include recommendations to build momentum for local government actions to align with State goals, including through CEQA review. The Appendix outlines the priority GHG reduction

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 74 strategies for local governments, including transportation electrification, VMT reduction, and building decarbonization. 21
SJVAPCD CEQA Air Quality Guidelines
The SJVAPCD’s Guidance for Valley Land Use Agencies in Addressing GHG Impacts for New Projects Under CEQA (2009) provides screening criteria for climate change analyses, as well as draft guidance for the determination of significance. 22,23 These criteria are used to evaluate whether a project would result in a significant climate change impact (see below). Projects that meet one of these criteria would have less than significant impact on the global climate.
• Does the project comply with an adopted statewide, regional, or local plan for reduction or mitigation of GHG emissions? If no, then:
• Does the project achieve 29% GHG reductions by using approved Best Performance Standards (BPS)? If no, then
• Does the project achieve AB 32 targeted 29% GHG emission reductions compared with Business As Usual (BAU)?
Assembly Bill (AB) 32 was enacted by the California State legislature in 2006 with the aim to reduce GHG emissions to levels of 1990 by 2020. Recommended actions to achieve these aims were adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in 2008 (i.e., the Climate Change Scoping Plan). However, the 29% GHG emission reductions compared to BAU threshold is outdated since it is aimed to meet AB 32’s 2020 goals, thus this threshold would not be used for analysis.

San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District
SJVAPCD adopted Guidance for Valley Land‐use Agencies in Addressing GHG Emission Impacts for New Projects under CEQA and the policy District Policy—Addressing GHG Emission Impacts for Stationary Source Projects Under CEQA When Serving as the Lead Agency in 2009. It recognized that project-specific emissions are cumulative and could be considered cumulatively considerable without mitigation. SJVAPCD suggested that the requirement to reduce GHG emissions for all projects is the best method to address this cumulative impact.

The SJVAPCD requires quantification of GHG emissions for all projects which the lead agency has determined that an EIR is required. Although an EIR is not required for the Project, the GHG emissions are quantified below. Shortterm construction and long-term operational GHG emissions for project buildout were estimated using CalEEModTM (version 2022.1.1.28). (See Appendix A). CalEEMod is a statewide model designed to provide a uniform platform for government agencies, land use planners, and environmental professionals to quantify GHG emissions from land use projects. The model quantifies direct GHG emissions from construction and operation (including vehicle use), 21 California Air Resources Board. (2022). 2022 Scoping Plan Appendix D. Accessed on October 18, 2024, https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2022-11/2022-sp-appendix-d-local-actions.pdf 22 San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. (2009). Guidance for Valley Land-use Agencies in Addressing GHG Emission Impacts for New Projects under CEQA. Accessed October 18, 2024, http://www.valleyair.org/Programs/CCAP/12-17- 09/3%20CCAP%20-%20FINAL%20LU%20Guidance%20-%20Dec%2017%202009.pdf. 23 San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. (2000). Environmental Review Guidelines: Procedures for Implementing the California Environmental Quality Act. Accessed October 18, 2024, http://www.valleyair.org/transportation/CEQA%20Rules/ERG%20Adopted%20_August%202000_.pdf

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 75 as well as indirect GHG emissions, such as GHG emissions from energy use, solid waste disposal, vegetation planting and/or removal, and water use. Emissions are expressed in annual metric tons of CO2 equivalent units of measure (i.e., MTCO2e), based on the global warming potential of the individual pollutants.

4.8.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment?
Less than Significant Impact. The 2024 CEQA Guidelines do not establish a quantitative threshold of significance for GHG impacts, leaving lead agencies the discretion to establish such thresholds for their respective jurisdictions. The City of Porterville does not have an adopted climate action plan (CAP) that establishes thresholds for GHG emissions. Since the SJVAPCD and the City of Porterville do not have established GHG significance emissions thresholds, the Project is assessed based on its consistency with the CARB’s latest adopted Scoping Plan, including the Project’s compliance with relevant Scoping Plan measures, in addition to the latest RTP/SCS for the region.

Of note, the Scoping Plan is consistent with AB 1276 GHG reduction targets toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 and reducing anthropogenic emissions to 85% below 1990 levels by 2045. Therefore, consistency with CARB’s Scoping Plan would also demonstrate consistency with carbon neutrality requirements of AB 1279. This analysis provides a qualitative assessment of the Project’s compliance with the applicable plans, policies, and regulations for the purpose of reducing GHGs to determine whether the project would have a significant impact on the environment relative to GHGs.

Short-term construction and long-term operational GHG emissions for project buildout were estimated using CalEEModTM (version 2022.1.1.28). See Appendix A for output files. The Project’s estimated construction and operation-related GHG emissions are provided for the purposes of disclosure.

Construction Emissions
In regard to construction, the SJVAPCD does not recommend assessing pollution associated with construction, as pollution-related construction will be temporary. These construction GHG emissions are a one-time release. As such, it can be anticipated that these construction emissions would not generate a significant contribution to global climate change over the lifetime of the Project. The overall construction GHG emissions associated with buildout of the Project is 920.1 MT CO2e based on the CalEEMod run.

Operational Emissions
Regarding the long-term operational related GHG emissions, the estimated operational emissions for buildout of the Project incorporates the potential area source and vehicle emissions, and emissions associated with utility and water usage, and wastewater and solid waste generation. The annual operational GHG emissions associated with buildout of the Project is 2,922 MT CO2e based on the CalEEMod run.

Further, the Project would not exceed the thresholds of significance for construction or operational emissions as discussed in Section 4.3. Additionally, as discussed in more detail below, the Project would be generally consistent with the applicable goals and policies related to GHG reduction measures, including CARB’s 2022 Scoping Plan and SJVAPCD guidelines, and the Porterville 2030 General Plan goals and policies that aim to reduce air emissions and

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 76 improve air quality, which reduces GHG emissions as a result. Cumulatively, these emissions would not generate a significant contribution to global climate change over the lifetime of the proposed Project. As such, it can be determined that the Project would not occur at a scale or scope with potential to contribute substantially or cumulatively to the generation of GHG emissions and therefore the impact would be less than significant. b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?
Less than Significant Impact. The compatibility of the Project with the 2022 Scoping Plan and the Porterville 2030 General Plan.

Consistency with the 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan
Based on the evaluation shown in Table 4-8, the Project is consistent with the reduction measures identified in the 2022 Scoping Plan. The reduction measures are derived from the 2022 Scoping Plan Table 1 – Priority GHG Reduction Strategies, which provides three (3) priority areas to assist jurisdictions with developing local climate action plans.

Table 4-8 Scoping Plan Priority GHG Reduction Strategies Consistency Analysis Priority Areas Priority GHG Reduction Strategies Consistency/Applicability Determination Transportation
Electrification
Convert local government fleets to ZEVs and
provide EV charging at public sites.

Not Applicable. The Project proposes residential
units and is thus not intended to be accessible
to the public.

Create a jurisdiction-specific ZEV ecosystem to
support deployment of ZEVs statewide (such as
building standards that exceed state building
codes, permit streamlining, infrastructure siting,
consumer education, preferential parking
policies, and ZEV readiness plans).

Not Applicable. This is a city-wide strategy thus
is not applicable to the Project.

VMT Reduction

Reduce or eliminate minimum parking
standards.

Not Applicable. This is a city-wide strategy thus
is not applicable to the Project.

Implement Complete Streets policies and
investments, consistent with General Glan
Circulation Element requirements.

Not Applicable. Road frontages and internal
roads proposed within the subdivision are
designed to include curb, gutter, and sidewalks.

Increase access to public transit by increasing
density of development near transit, improving
transit service by increasing service frequency,
creating bus priority lanes, reducing or
eliminating fares, microtransit, etc.

Consistent. The Project Site proposes a 6.3
du/ac residential development that is
approximately 430 feet to the nearest bus stop
(E. Putnam and Leggett, Stop ID: 3100).

Increase public access to clean mobility options
by planning for and investing in electric shuttles,
bike share, car share, and walking.

Consistent. The Project proposes pedestrian
facilities (i.e., sidewalks) within the site and
connecting to adjacent properties. In addition,
as described above, the Project is near an
existing bus stop. As such, it increases public
access to clean mobility options.

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demand management pricing strategies.

Not Applicable. The Project proposes residential
development; thus, parking spaces and garages
are provided at no additional cost for residents.

Amend zoning or development codes to enable
mixed-use, walkable, transit-oriented, and
compact infill development (such as increasing
the allowable density of a neighborhood)
Not Applicable. This is a city-wide strategy thus
is not applicable to the Project.

Preserve natural and working lands by
implementing land use policies that guide
development toward infill areas and do not
convert “greenfield” land to urban uses (e.g.,
green belts, strategic conservation easements)
Consistent. The Project Site is located on Prime
Farmland. However, the site is within an infill
area (i.e., surrounded by urban and built-up
land) and is planned for urbanized uses.

However, according to the General Plan, “the
General Plan has incorporated land use patterns
and policies to minimize the amount of overall
urban growth in the Planning Area”.

Additionally, the General Plan contains policies
intended to provide safeguards for these
agricultural lands and encourage the retention
of agriculture and open space areas around the
City. As such, while the Project would convert
“greenfield” land to urban uses, the site is an
infill site, and the conversion is compliant with
the General Plan.

Building
Decarbonization
Adopt all-electric new construction reach codes
for residential and commercial uses.

Not Applicable. This is a city-wide strategy thus
is not applicable to the Project.

Adopt policies and incentive programs to
implement energy efficiency retrofits for
existing buildings, such as weatherization,
lighting upgrades, and replacing energyintensive appliances and equipment with more efficient systems (such as Energy Star-rated
equipment and equipment controllers).

Not Applicable. This is a city-wide strategy thus
is not applicable to the Project. In addition, the
Project does not include retrofits for existing
buildings.

Adopt policies and incentive programs to
electrify all appliances and equipment in existing
buildings such as appliance rebates, existing
building reach codes, or time of sale
electrification ordinances
Not Applicable. This is a city-wide strategy thus
is not applicable to the Project. In addition, the
Project does not include retrofits for existing
buildings.

Facilitate deployment of renewable energy
production and distribution and energy storage
on privately owned land uses (e.g., permit
streamlining, information sharing)
Not Applicable. This is a city-wide strategy thus
is not applicable to the Project.

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energy storage directly in new public projects
and on existing public facilities (e.g., solar
photovoltaic systems on rooftops of municipal
buildings and on canopies in public parking lots,
battery storage systems in municipal buildings)
Consistent. The Project would install solar
photovoltaic systems on rooftops pursuant
California’s 2022 Energy Code.

Consistency with the Porterville 2030 General Plan
The Porterville 2030 General Plan established several policies to reduce air emissions, as listed below. These policies are mostly implemented at the city level. The Project would be subject to energy efficient regulations including CalGreen, Title 24, and CARB, as discussed in Section 4.6. As such, the Project would be generally consistent with the policies identified in the General Plan.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-59 Require preparation of a Health Risk Assessment for any development subject to the Air Toxics “Hot Spots” Act.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-69 Establish regulations to allow flexibility in site planning, solar orientation, roof design, and landscaping to decrease summer cooling and winter heating needs.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-70 Ensure City codes allow for environmentally acceptable alternative forms of energy production and green building techniques.

In conclusion, the Project contains features that would reduce GHG emissions in compliance with CARB 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan and the Porterville 2030 General Plan. As such, the Project would not conflict with any applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHGs, and therefore the impact would be less than significant.

4.8.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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4.9 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
Would the Project:

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?
X
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?
X
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous
materials, substances, or waste within
one-quarter mile of an existing or
proposed school?
X
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?
X
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 for people residing or
working in the Project Area?
X
f) Impair implementation of or
physically interfere with an adopted
emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan?
X
g) Expose people or structures, either
directly or indirectly, to a significant
risk of loss, injury or death involving
wildland fires?
X

4.9.1 Environmental Setting
For the purposes of this section, the term “hazardous materials” refers to "injurious substances," which include flammable liquids and gases, poisons, corrosives, explosives, oxidizers, radioactive materials, and medical supplies and waste. These materials are either generated or used by various commercial and industrial activities. Hazardous

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 80 wastes are injurious substances that have been or will be disposed. Potential hazards arise from the transport of hazardous materials, including leakage and accidents involving transporting vehicles. There also are hazards associated with the use and storage of these materials and wastes. Hazardous materials are grouped into the following four categories based on their properties:
• Toxic: causes human health effect
• Ignitable: has the ability to burn
• Corrosive: causes severe burns or damage to materials • Reactive: causes explosions or generates toxic gases
“Hazardous wastes” are defined in California Health and Safety Code Section 25141(b) as wastes that: “…because of their quantity, concentration, or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics, [may either] cause or significantly contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious illness or pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of, or otherwise managed.” A hazardous waste is any hazardous material that is discarded, abandoned, or slated to be recycled. If improperly handled, hazardous materials and hazardous waste can result in public health hazards if released into the soil or groundwater or through airborne releases in vapors, fumes, or dust. Soil and groundwater having concentrations of hazardous constituents higher than specific regulatory levels must be handled and disposed of as hazardous waste when excavated or pumped from an aquifer. The California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Sections 66261.20‐24 contains technical descriptions of toxic characteristics that could cause soil or groundwater to be classified as hazardous waste.

Hazardous waste generators may include industries, businesses, public and private institutions, and households.

Federal, state, and local agencies maintain comprehensive databases that identify the location of facilities using large quantities of hazardous materials, as well as facilities generating hazardous waste. Some of these facilities use certain classes of hazardous materials that require risk management plans to protect surrounding land uses. The release of hazardous materials would be subject to existing federal, State, and local regulations and is similar to the transport, use, and disposal of hazard materials.

Regulatory Setting
The California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) was established in 1991 to protect the environment.

CalEPA oversees the Unified Program through Certified Unified Program Agencies (CUPAs), which consolidates six (6) environmental programs to ensure the handling of hazardous waste and materials in California. The local CUPA in Tulare County Environmental Health Division (TCEHD) is responsible for inspecting facilities that handle hazardous materials, generate hazardous waste, treat hazardous waste, own/operate underground storage tanks, own/operate aboveground petroleum storage tanks, or handle other materials subject to the California Accidental Release Program.24 TCEHD inspects businesses for compliance with the Hazardous Waste Control Act through their Hazardous Waste Generator Program. TCEHD also issues permits to businesses that handle hazardous materials or waste no less than 55 gallons, 500 pounds, or 200 cubic feet of compressed gas, whichever larger. These businesses are required to prepare a Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) to assess the inventory of hazardous 24 Tulare County Environmental Health Division. Hazardous Materials/Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA). Accessed on October 18, 2024, https://tularecountyeh.org/eh/our-services/hazardous-materials-cupa/

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 81 materials, hazardous waste, and provide emergency response related to incidents involving these hazardous materials/waste.

The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is another agency in California that regulates hazardous waste, conducts inspections, provides emergency response for hazardous materials-related emergencies, protect water resources from contamination, removing wastes, etc. DTSC acts under the authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and California Health and Safety Code. The DTSC implements California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 22 Division 4.5 to manage hazardous waste. Government Code Section 65962.5 requires that DTSC shall compile and update at least annually a list of:
(1) All hazardous waste facilities subject to corrective action pursuant to Section 25187.5 of the Health and Safety Code (“HSC”).
(2) All land designated as hazardous waste property or border zone property pursuant to Article 11 (commencing with Section 25220) of Chapter 6.5 of Division 20 of the Health and Safety Code. (3) All information received by the Department of Toxic Substances Control pursuant to Section 25242 of the Health and Safety Code on hazardous waste disposals on public land. (4) All sites listed pursuant to Section 25356 of the Health and Safety Code. (5) All sites included in the Abandoned Site Assessment Program.

This list of hazardous waste sites in California, referred to as the Cortese List, is then distributed to each city and county. According to the CCR Title 22, soils excavated from a site containing hazardous materials are considered hazardous waste, and remediation actions should be performed accordingly. Cleanup requirements are determined case-by-case by the jurisdiction.

Record Search
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Superfund National Priorities List (NPL)25, California Department of Toxic Substance Control’s EnviroStor database 28F 26 , and the State Water Resources Control Board’s
GeoTracker database29F
27 include hazardous release and contamination sites. A search of each database was conducted on October 18, 2024. The searches revealed no hazardous material release sites on or adjacent to the Project Site.

Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA)
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) was performed at the Project Site in accordance with the current Standards for Practice for Phase I ESA per the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM): E1527-21 guidelines. The Phase I ESA was performed by Krazan and Associates, Inc. in order to provide an indication whether 25 United States Environmental Protection Agency. Superfund National Priorities List. Accessed October 18, 2024, 2https://epa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=33cebcdfdd1b4c3a8b51d416956c41f1 26 California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Envirostor. Accessed October 18, 2024 https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/
27 California State Water Resources Control Board. GeoTracker. Accessed October 18, 2024 https://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 82 hazardous materials and or soil contamination may be present on the Project Site. The report (dated July 12, 2024) is attached as Appendix F. Results are incorporated herein.

ASTM E1527-21 defines recognized environmental conditions (RECs) as “(1) the presence of hazardous substances or petroleum products in, on, or at the subject property due to a release to the environment; (2) the likely presence of hazardous substances or petroleum products in, on, or at the subject property due to a release or likely release to the environment; or (3) the presence of hazardous substances or petroleum products in, on, or at the subject property under conditions that pose a material threat of a future release to the environment.” This assessment has revealed no evidence of RECs in connection with the subject property.

ASTM E1527-21 defines controlled recognized environmental conditions (CRECs) as “a recognized environmental condition affecting the subject property that has been addressed to the satisfaction of the applicable regulatory authority or authorities with hazardous substances or petroleum products allowed to remain in place subject to implementation of required controls (for example, activity and use limitation or other property use limitations).” This assessment has revealed no evidence of CRECs in connection with the subject property.

ASTM E1527-21 defines historical recognized environmental conditions (HRECs) as “a previous release of hazardous substances or petroleum products affecting the subject property that has been addressed to the satisfaction of the applicable regulatory authority or authorities and meeting unrestricted use criteria established by the applicable regulatory authority or authorities without subjecting the subject property to any controls (for example, activity and use limitations or other property use limitations).” This assessment has revealed no evidence of HRECs in connection with the subject property.

This assessment identified the following Potential Area of Concern (PAOC) in connection with the Project Site.

Historical data indicates the presence of on- and off-site farming operations, which are expected to utilize fuelpowered trucks and tractors/farm equipment. While there is no record of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) for the subject site on file with local regulatory agencies, rural or agricultural properties have historically been exempt from requirements for registration with regulatory agencies. Consequently, despite an absence of data suggesting their presence, there exists the potential for unknown and unregistered USTs to be present on the Project Site.

This assessment identified the following ASTM Non-Scope Issues in connection with the structures located on the Project Site. The structures appear to have been constructed prior to 1978 and have the potential to contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) or lead-based paint (LBP). An asbestos and/or LBP survey and sampling of the on-site structures was not included within the scope of this assessment. Prior to the disturbance of any suspected ACMs or LBP at the Project Site via renovation or demolition, comprehensive asbestos and LBP surveys are recommended.

This assessment identified the following Site Development Issues. Due to the Project Site being utilized as a rural residence and agricultural land, a water well and septic systems may be located within the Project Site. If a water well or septic system is identified during planned redevelopment, it/they should be properly destroyed in accordance with State and local guidelines. Additionally, much of the Project Site has been used for agricultural purposes prior to 1973. It is recommended that prior to redevelopment, the subject property be tested for agricultural pesticides.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 83 Porterville 2030 General Plan
The Porterville 2030 General Plan Public Health and Safety Element includes policies to protect soils, surface water, and groundwater from contamination from hazardous materials, as listed below.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-17 Require remediation and cleanup of sites contaminated with hazardous substances.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-19 Ensure that all specified hazardous facilities conform to the Tulare County Hazardous Waste Management Plan.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-20 Prohibit specified hazardous waste residual repositories and onsite facilities utilizing incineration methods unless the facility demonstrates that it will produce insignificant levels of emissions.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-23 Require applicants of projects in areas of known or suspected hazardous materials occurrences such as petroleum hydrocarbon contamination, CAM 17 metals, USTs, location of asbestos rocks and other such contamination to perform comprehensive soil and groundwater contamination assessments in accordance with regulatory agency testing standards, and if contamination exceeds regulatory action levels, require the project applicant to undertake remediation procedures prior to grading and development under the supervision of appropriate agencies, such as Tulare County Department of Environmental Heath, Department of Toxic Substances Control, or Regional Water Quality Control Board.

Implementation Policy C-I-28 Designate specific truck routes to provide for the safe movement of goods and hazardous materials throughout the City, ensure that adequate pavement depth, lane widths, and turn radii are maintained on the designated truck routes, and prohibit commercial trucks from non-truck routes except for deliveries.

The General Plan also includes policies to reduce the potential impact on adopted emergency response plans and emergency evacuation plans, as listed below.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-29 Maintain and periodically update the City’s Emergency Management Plan.

This plan will be updated as necessary in consultation with City departments, community leaders, the school districts, Sierra View District Hospital, SCE, and relevant regional and State agencies.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-30 Initiate periodic public information programs that explain the City’s emergency preparedness programs and evacuation routes and encourage each household to be selfsufficient for 72 hours after a manmade or natural disaster.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-31 Maintain multi-jurisdictional communication systems and cooperation for emergency training, planning and management.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-32 Work with owners and operators of critical use facilities to ensure that they can provide alternate sources of electricity, water, and sewerage in the event that regular utilities are interrupted in a disaster.

Public utilities are lifeline services for Emergency Command Centers, police and fire departments, and hospitals. Keeping them open and operative is especially crucial in the 72 hours after a major disaster.

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March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 84 Implementation Policy C-I-3 Provide for greater street connectivity by:
• Incorporating in subdivision regulations requirements for a minimum number of access points to existing local or collector streets for each development; • Encouraging roundabouts over signals, where feasible and appropriate; • Requiring the bicycle and pedestrian connections from cul-de-sacs to nearby public areas and main streets; and
• Requiring new residential communities on undeveloped land planned for urban uses to provide stubs for future connections to the edge of the property line. Where stubs exist on adjacent properties, new streets within the development should connect to these stubs.

Emergency Operations Plan
The City adopted an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) in 2004, pursuant California Government Code Section 8550- 8668, California Emergency Services Act, which requires all cities to prepare and maintain an emergency plan for natural and manmade emergencies. The EOP works in conjunction with the Tulare County Emergency Operations Plan and the State Emergency Plan. In addition, the City’s Fire Department includes specific procedures for emergency response to incidents involving hazardous materials and waste.

4.9.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project proposes residential development. The type of hazardous materials that would be associated with Project operations are those typical of residential uses such as cleaning supplies and HVAC equipment. Because of the proposed residential use, it is not expected that the Project would routinely transport, use, or dispose of hazardous materials other than those typical of residential uses and such materials would not be of the type of quantity that would pose a significant hazard to the public.

Some appliances and electronics used or stored by residents may contain hazardous components (e.g., refrigerants, oils, etc.); however, these hazardous components are regulated by the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act and Clean Air Act and transport of such components are regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Hazardous Materials Safety as implemented in California by Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), California Building Code, and Uniform Fire Code, as adopted by the City. Through compliance with regulations, appliances and electronics associated with the Project are not expected to create a significant hazard to the public or the environment.

Potential impacts during construction of the Project could result from the use of fuels and lubricants for construction equipment. However, these impacts would be short-term and temporary, and would be reduced to less than significant levels through compliance with local, state, and federal regulations including but not limited to compliance with EPA’s oil spills prevention and preparedness regulations, California Office of Emergency Services implementation of hazardous materials accident prevention, and California Department of Toxic Substance Control permitting, and regulations as administered by Tulare County, in addition to standard equipment operating practices as indicated in operator manuals. Therefore, the Project would have a less than significant impact.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 85 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? Less than Significant Impact. As described under criterion a), it is not anticipated that the Project itself would involve any operations that would require routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials and therefore is not anticipated to create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the release of hazardous materials, including any reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment. While potential impacts would occur through construction-related transport and disposal of hazardous materials, such impacts would be short-term and temporary and would be reduced to less than significant levels through compliance with local, state, and federal regulations in addition to standard equipment operating practices as described under criterion a). Therefore, the Project would have a less than significant impact.
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school?
No Impact. There are no schools within one-quarter mile of the Project Site. The nearest school to the Project Site is Roche Avenue Elementary School located approximately 0.3 miles to the west of the site. As described under criteria a) and b) above, the Project is not anticipated to emit hazard emissions or handle hazardous materials, substances, or waste that would pose a risk or threat to the schools or surrounding area. Therefore, no impact 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? Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. According to the NPL, EnviroStor, and GeoTracker, the Project is not located on a site that is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5.. The Phase I ESA found no evidence of RECs, CRECs, and HRECs in connection with the Project Site. However, the assessment revealed PAOCs, ASTM Non-Scope Issues, and Site Development Issues in connection with the Project Site, including potentially unknown USTs, possible ACMs, possible LBPs, potential water wells and septic systems, and agricultural pesticides. Mitigation Measure HAZ-1, HAZ-2, HAZ-3, and HAZ-4 establish further assessment to ensure that these potential issues are addressed. As such, the Project would not create a significant hazard to the public of the environment with mitigation measures incorporated. Impacts would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-1: Asbestos Survey. Prior to the demolition or renovation of any existing structure on site, an Asbestos Survey shall be conducted to determine the quantity of asbestos-containing construction material to be removed in the Project. As regulated by National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), the inspection must be conducted by a Cal-OSHA Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC). The Asbestos Survey report shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Community Development Department for review and approval. Alternatively, if the developer is opting to treat all of the material as RACM and will notify as such, the survey may be bypassed.

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March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 86 developer shall utilize specialists/professionals for asbestos removal/abatement to reduce potential health risks to construction workers. Demolition activities that would expose construction workers and/or the public to asbestos-containing materials shall be conducted in accordance with the applicable regulations, including, but not limited to:
• San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District
• California Health and Safety Code (Section 39650 et seq.) • California Code of Regulations (Title 8, Section 1529) • California Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations (California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 1529 [Asbestos] and Section 1532.1 [Lead]) • Code of Federal Regulations (Title 40, Part 61 [asbestos], Title 40, Part 763 [asbestos], and Title 29, Part 1926 [asbestos and lead])
Mitigation Measure HAZ-2: Lead-Based Paint Inspection. Prior to the demolition of any existing structure on-site, a lead-based paint inspection is required to determine whether the lead-based paint is present in or on the original building materials. The inspection shall be conducted on-site by a state-certified Lead inspector or Assessor in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 1532.1. The investigation report shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Community Development Department for review and approval.

If it is determined that lead-based paint exists on-site, the developer shall utilize professionals for lead-based paint removal to reduce potential health risks to construction workers and/or the public. Pursuant to Section 1532.1, construction workers must establish and implement a compliance program, and provide a written Pre-Job Notification to the nearest Division of Occupational Safety and Health Cal/OSHA office 24 hours prior to the start of a project.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-3: Test for Agricultural Pesticides. Prior to construction activities onsite, a limited Phase II investigation shall be conducted to assess the surface soil of the Project Site for residual organochlorine and lead arsenate pesticides. The Phase II investigation shall be conducted in accordance with guidelines developed by the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for site assessments. The Phase II investigation shall estimate the potential threat to public health and the environment if concentrations of pesticides are encountered using methods outlined in DTSC’s Preliminary Endangerment Assessment Guidance Manual and DTSC’s Screening Level Human Health Risk Assessment guidance for implementing screening level risk analysis. The Phase II investigation shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Community Development Department for review and approval by an independent third-party reviewer. If the Phase II testing reveals concentrations of organochlorine pesticides and lead arsenic above health-based screening levels for residential exposure, remediation of the site shall be required to address residual organochlorine and lead arsenate pesticides above health-based level of concern. Remediation may include excavation and disposal of impacted soil or capping elevated areas beneath paved areas. The Construction Contractor shall implement the recommendations outlined in the Phase II.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 87 potentially hazardous materials are encountered. Construction Contractors shall follow all applicable local, state, and federal regulations regarding discovery, response, disposal, removal, and remediation for hazardous materials encountered during the construction process. 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 for people residing or working in the Project area?
No Impact. The nearest public airport or public use airport is the Porterville Municipal Airport located approximately

4.5 miles southwest of the Project Site. The Project Site is not located within any land use plan or within two (2) miles of a public airport or public use airport. As such, the Project would not result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the Project area and no impact would occur. f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project would not involve any new or altered infrastructure associated with evacuation, emergency response, and emergency access routes within the City of Porterville or Tulare County.

Construction may require lane closure; however, these activities would be short-term and access through Morton Avenue, Leggett Street and/or Henry Street would be maintained through standard traffic control. Following construction, these roadways would continue to provide access to the site. Furthermore, the Project would be subject to compliance with applicable standards for on-site emergency access including turn radii and fire access.

Therefore, through compliance, the Project would not impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan 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?
Less than Significant Impact. According to the Tulare County 2023 Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, Porterville is within an area with low threat of wildfire. The geographical extent affects less than 10% of the City’s Planning rea with limited magnitude and low overall significance. In addition, the site is not identified by Cal Fire to be in a Moderate, High, or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ). Development of the Project would also increase paved areas, decreasing the probability of wildfires. Future development of the site would result in the construction of structures and installation of infrastructure that would be reviewed and conditioned by the City for compliance with all applicable standards, specifications, and codes. In addition, any structure occupied by humans would be required to be constructed in adherence to the Wildland Urban Interface Codes and Standards of the CBC Chapter 7A. Compliance with such regulations would ensure that the Project meets standards to help prevent loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires. For these reasons, the Project would have a less than significant impact.

4.9.3 Mitigation Measures
The Project shall implement and incorporate, as applicable, the hazards and hazardous material related mitigation measures as identified above and in the MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM contained in SECTION 5.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 88

4.10 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
Would the Project:

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?
X
b) Substantially decrease groundwater
supplies or interfere substantially with
groundwater recharge such that the
Project may impede sustainable
groundwater management of the
basin?
X
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 a substantial erosion
or siltation on- or off-site; X
ii. Substantially increase the rate
or amount of surface runoff in
a manner which would result
in flooding on- or off-site:

X
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
X
iv. Impede or redirect flood
flows? X
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche
zones, risk release of pollutants due to
Project inundation?
X
e) Conflict with or obstruct
implementation of a water quality
control plan or sustainable
groundwater management plan?
X

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 89

4.10.1 Environmental Setting
The Project proposed to be annexed to Porterville’s city limits and would be required to connect to the City’s water and stormwater services. The City’s water and stormwater services are described as follows.

Water
The City of Porterville Public Works Department maintains and operates the City’s water system. The City’s water system consists of approximately 276 miles of distribution pipeline ranging from four (4)-inches to 18-inches in diameter, 36 active municipal wells, and seven (7) hillside reservoirs with a total of 11,350,000 gallons of capacity.

According to the 2020 UWMP, the City provides potable water services to approximately 17,063 metered connections and supplies 3,647 million gallons (MG) within its service area as of 2020. 28 Porterville meets its demand for domestic water entirely from groundwater sources, which is recharged from the Tule Basin Aquifer, which gets water from the Tule River. Rainfall also contributes to groundwater recharge at an annual average rainfall of 11.63 inches. The City does not receive raw or potable water, either by import or purchase, to supply their municipal distribution system. Although the City doesn’t purchase water to service their system, the City has acquired water rights for approximately 900 acre feet annually from the Pioneer Ditch Company and Porter Slough Ditch Company.

The Porterville 2030 General Plan establishes a goal of reducing groundwater pumping to match the aquifer safe yield. Additionally, the General Plan aims to reduce per capita demand by ten percent. The General Plan includes the following goals and policies in its Open Space and Conservation Element and Public Utilities Element to promote water quality and conservation, as listed below.

Guiding Policy OSC-G-8: Ensure adequate water quality and supply for the entire Porterville community.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-37: Establish watershed protection standards and review procedures in the Zoning Ordinance to protect groundwater resources.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-40: Support the identification of degraded surface water and groundwater resources and promote restoration where appropriate.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-45: Work with the Regional Water Quality Control Board to ensure that all point source pollutants are adequately mitigated (as part of the CEQA review and project approval process) and monitored to ensure long-term compliance.

Guiding Policy PU-G-1: Ensure an adequate supply of fresh water to serve existing and future needs of the City.

Guiding Policy PU-G-2: Promote the conservation of water within Porterville.

Implementation Policy PU-I-3: Periodically review and update development impact fees, water connection charges, and monthly service charges to ensure that adequate funds are collected to operate and maintain existing facilities and to construct new facilities.
28 City of Porterville. (2022). 2020 Urban Water Management Plan. Accessed October 18, 2024, https://cms9files.revize.com/PortervilleCA/Draft%202020%20Urban%20Water%20Management%20Plan.pdf

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 90 Implementation Policy PU-I-4: Support efforts to expand surface water supply and storage that benefits the City.

Implementation Policy PU-I-5: Require that necessary water supply infrastructure and storage facilities are in place coincident with new development, and approve development plans only when a dependable and adequate water supply to serve the development is assured.

Implementation Policy PU-I-7: Continue to require water meters in all new development.

Implementation Policy PU-I-8: Require that agricultural water rights be assigned to the City when agricultural land is annexed to the City for urban development, consistent with this General Plan.

Implementation Policy PU-I-9: Work cooperatively toward a program of conjunctive surface water use with local water purveyors and irrigation districts to retain surface water rights and supply following annexation and urban development so as to protect against aquifer overdrafts and water quality degradation.

Implementation Policy PU-I-10: Encourage private sector use of alternative water sources to achieve a water balance, including reclaimed water for irrigation and landscaping purposes.

Implementation Policy PU-I-11: Promote the continued use of surface water for agriculture to reduce groundwater table reductions.

Implementation Policy PU-I-12: Establish a comprehensive program for water conservation.

Implementation Policy PU-I-13: Undertake a program to retrofit public buildings with water conservation features.

Stormwater
The City’s Public Works Department manages drainage facilities on City-owned property such as public right-ofway, public easements, city-owned property. Drainage on private property or within privately held easements are typically managed by the underlying property owner. The stormwater system consists of a system of natural water channels, drains, and ponding basins located throughout the City. The system operates by conveying captured runoff to recharge basins or directly to flood channels throughout the City. The City owns approximately 38 stormwater basins that provide groundwater recharge and are currently sized to accept floodwater and surface water recharge.

4.10.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project Site is undeveloped and therefore would require grading, excavation, and loading activities associated with construction which could temporarily increase runoff, erosion, and sedimentation.

Typical sources of potential construction-related stormwater pollution would be the handling, storage, and disposal of construction materials that contain pollutants, the maintenance and operation of construction equipment, and earth moving activities. The potential for construction-related stormwater pollution would be significantly minimized through preparation of the required SWPPP (Section 4.7) in compliance with the General Permit for

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March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 91 Discharges of Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity. The SWPPP estimates the sediment risk associated with construction activities and includes best management practices (BMP) to control erosion. BMPs specific to erosion control cover erosion, sediment, tracking, and waste management controls. Implementation of the SWPPP minimizes the potential for the Project to result in substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil. These provisions minimize the potential for the Project to violate any waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality. Further, runoff resulting from the Project would be managed by the Storm Water Management Division in compliance with the Storm Drainage Master Plan in addition to approved grading and drainage plans. Thus, compliance with existing regulations including the General Construction Permit, BMPs, and Storm Drainage Master Plan would ensure potential impacts related to water quality and waste discharge are 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? Less than Significant Impact. The Project site is currently and has historically been farmed with approximately 25 acres of citrus. According to Tulare County’s Phase I Water Supply Evaluation, water usage for orchards in Tulare County is documented to 3.6 acre/feet per year.29 Using this rate, it is estimated that the site currently uses 90 acre/feet per year (25 acres x 3.6 acre/feet).

The City’s long-term water resource planning for existing and future demand is addressed in the City’s 2020 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP). The City’s sole source of water supply is the underlying groundwater basin, the east side of the Tule Subbasin. The City currently has 36 active wells throughout the community that pump directly into the water distribution system and surrounding above ground water storage tanks. As population and development within the City increases, the UWMP planned 3 new wells to be installed, 12 new wells to be added to the water system in 2040, and the implementation of surface water exchange program to increase water supply.

The City’s existing and projected potable water demands by land use type are shown in Table 4-9. Single-family users make up the largest demand for potable water, accounting for 56% of potable water use citywide in 2020.

According to the UWMP, the City’s per capita water usage is expected to increase with population growth and favorable hydrologic conditions. However, while the City utilizes 179 gallons per capita per day (gpcd) as a conservative approach to projecting water demand, the actual water consumption was only 133 gpcd in 2020 and 130 gpcd in 2015.

Table 4-9 - City of Porterville Existing and Projected Potable Water Demands by Use Type, 2020 - 2040 Use Type 2020 * 2025 2030 2035 2040
Single Family Residential 2,025 3,182 3,607 4,074 4,621 Multi-Family Residential 390 612 694 784 889
Commercial and Institutional 448 704 798 901 1,022
Industrial 10 16 18 20 23
29 Tulare County. (2009). Tulare County General Plan 2030 Update. Recirculated Draft Environmental Impact Report, Appendix G – Phase I Water Supply Evaluation for Tulare County (Table 2.4). Accessed January 28, 2025, https://generalplan.co.tulare.ca.us/documents/GP/002Board%20of%20Supervisors%20Materials/001BOS%20Agenda%20Ite ms%20-
%20Public%20Hearing%20August,%2028%202012/002Attachment%20A.%20FEIR/001Exhibit%201.%20FEIR%20Exec%20Su mmary%20&%20Chap%201-6/Appendix%20G%20-%20Phase%20I%20Water%20Supply%20Evaluation.pdf

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 92 Landscape 223 351 398 449 509
Losses 403 232 263 297 337
Other 148 634 719 811 920
Total 3,647 5,731 6,497 7,337 8,322
Source: City of Porterville, 2020 UWMP, Table 4.1 Retail: Demands for Potable and Non-Potable Water-Actual, Table

4.2 Retail: Use for Potable and Non-Potable Water-Projected *actual use.

To determine the estimated water use by the proposed Project, the UWMP calculation methods were used.

According to the UWMP, the average household size in Porterville is 4.39 people per household. Applying a 4.39 average would equal approximately 703 people. At 179 gpcd, the Project would require approximately 45.9MG per year of potable water (703 residents x 179 gpcd x 365 days = 45,930,505 gallons of potable water per year) or 141 acre/feet per year. As discussed above, the existing operations on-site require approximately 90 acre/feet per year, which is less than what the residential development would utilize.

Water demand was also estimated using the City of Porterville Water System Master Plans average annual demand coefficients. The Project Site has an existing general plan land use designation of Parks and Recreation and Education and proposes a General Plan Amendment to the Low Medium Density Residential land use designation.

According to the land-use-based unit water demand coefficients for the City, the Parks and Recreation, Education, and Low Density Residential 30 land use designations have an annual average (gpd/acre) of 288 (Parks and Recreation), 1,728 (Education), and 1,584 (Low Density Residential) respectively. 31 Table 4-10 summarizes the total water demands to be expected. As shown, development under the existing land use would utilize approximately 28.71 acre-feet per year (AFY) compared to an estimated 45.22AFY under the proposed use. Development of the Project site as proposed would account for a less than one percent increase above the City’s 2020 water demand of 3,647 AFY in 2020. In addition, the minimal increase in demand would not exceed available groundwater supplies during a normal year water supply estimate of 5,655 AFY. Therefore, the Project would be accommodated by existing groundwater supplies and impacts would be less than significant.

Table 4-10 Della Farms Residential Subdivision Projected Water Demand

Water Demand
Coefficient
(gpd/acre)
Water Demand
(gpd)
Water Demand
(AFY)
Existing Land
Use
Parks and Recreation 12.78 288 3,680.64 4.13
Education 12.69 1,728 21,928.32 24.58
Total 25,608.96 28.71
Proposed
Project
160 Single-family
Dwellings 25.47 1,584 40,344.48 45.22
Furthermore, adherence to connection requirements and recommendations pursuant to the City’s water conservation efforts (e.g., compliance with California Plumbing Code, efficient appliances, efficient landscaping, 30 No coefficients were provided for Low-Medium Density Residential. Since the Project proposes a single-family residential use with a 6.3 du/ac density, Low Density Residential coefficients was used because it is the closer to the maximum permitted density in Low Density Residential, which is 6 du/ac. 31 City of Porterville. Water System Master Plans. Accessed October 25, 2024, https://www.ci.porterville.ca.us/departments/public_works/engineering_division/land_development/master_plans.php#out er-379sub-414

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 93 etc.) should not negatively impact water supply or impede water management. In particular, the Project would be built accordance with all mandatory outdoor water use requirements as outlined in the applicable California Green Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 11, Section 4.304 – Outdoor Water Use and verified through the building permit process. As a residential development that would contain landscaping pursuant to PMC regulations, the Project shall comply with the updated Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) (California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Chapter 2.7, Division 2), as implemented and enforced through the building permit process.

Therefore, through compliance, the potential for the Project to substantially decrease groundwater supplies is limited and impacts would be less than significant.

In addition, development of the Project Site would increase impervious surfaces which could increase stormwater runoff and reduce groundwater recharge. According to the UWMP, the City maintains stormwater facilities that convey captured runoff to retention/recharge basins or directly to flood channels that run throughout the City.

Runoff resulting from the Project would be managed in compliance with the Storm Water Management Program in addition to approved grading and drainage plans. Thus, compliance would ensure potential impacts related to groundwater recharge are less than significant.

Overall, based on the information collected from the UWMP and the City of Porterville, the proposed Project would not generate significant water demand. As a result, it can be presumed that the existing and planned water distribution system and supplies should be adequate to serve the Project, and the Project would thereby not interfere substantially with groundwater recharge or impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin.

In addition, adherence to connection requirements and recommendations pursuant to the City’s water supply planning efforts (i.e., compliance with California Plumbing Code, efficient appliances, efficient landscaping, etc.) should not negatively impact the City’s water provision. Lastly, compliance with approved grading and drainage plans would ensure impacts to groundwater recharge are less than significant. For these reasons, a less than significant 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 off-site? Less than Significant Impact. Erosion is a natural process in which soil is moved from place to place by wind or from flowing water. The effects of erosion within the Project Site can be accelerated by ground-disturbing activities associated with development. Siltation is the settling of sediment to the bed of a stream or lake which increases the turbidity of water. Turbid water can have harmful effects to aquatic life by clogging fish gills, reducing spawning habitat, and suppressing aquatic vegetation growth.

Implementation of the proposed Project would result in the development of ruderal land that has undergone significant disturbance (i.e., agricultural operations). Bare soils, common within agricultural land, are more susceptible to erosion than an already developed urban land, thus it is expected erosion could occur on-site. During construction activities, and in compliance with the Project’s SWPPP, construction-related erosion controls and BMPs would be implemented to reduce potential impacts related to erosion and siltation. These BMPs would include, but are not limited to, covering and/or binding soil surfaces to prevent soil from being detached and transported by water or wind, and the use of barriers such as straw bales and sandbags to control sediment.

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March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 94 Together, the controls and BMPs are intended to limit soil transportation and erosion and construction impacts related to on- and off-site improvements.

Development of the site would also result in an increase in the amount of impervious surface, which could increase the volume of runoff. However, the impervious surface area would significantly reduce the amount of exposed soil which would minimize the potential for erosion and siltation. In addition, the Project would be required to maintain the overall site drainage pattern in accordance with an approved grading and drainage plan. Therefore, compliance with requirements would reduce or eliminate the Project’s potential to substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site as to cause substantial erosion or siltation and impacts 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 off-site?
Less than Significant Impact. During construction, the site’s vegetation and soil would be disturbed, thereby temporarily altering the natural hydrology of the site. In turn, this could increase the volume and velocity of stormwater runoff which could increase the potential for flooding on- or off-site. As previously discussed, development of the site would require compliance with the SWPPP, approved grading and drainage plan, and implementation of BMPs that would control and direct runoff. Compliance would ensure that construction impacts related to the alteration of the site’s natural hydrology and the potential increase in runoff that would result in flooding on- or off-site 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? Less than Significant Impact. Development of the site would disturb the site’s vegetation and soil and temporarily alter the natural hydrology of the site. However, compliance with the SWPPP, approved grading and drainage plan, and implementation of BMPs that would control, and direct runoff would reduce construction impacts related to alteration of the site’s natural hydrology and the potential increase in runoff or polluted runoff in excess of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems. Therefore, construction would not result in the creation or contribution of additional sources of runoff or polluted runoff in exceedance of the existing or planned stormwater drainage systems and impacts would be less than significant.

Regarding operational impacts, development of the site would result in an increase in the impervious surface area which would increase runoff from the site. However, compliance with the approved grading and drainage plans would reduce the potential for the Project to cause substantial additional polluted runoff or runoff in excess of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems. A less than significant impact would occur. iv. Impede or redirect flood flows?
Less than Significant Impact. Although the construction of the proposed Project would increase impervious surfaces, the Project would be required to maintain the site’s drainage pattern through Project-specific grading and drainage plans that would be reviewed and approved by the City prior to the issuance of building permits. Through compliance, the potential for the Project to impede or redirect flood flows would be minimized or eliminated and a less than significant impact would occur.
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to Project inundation?

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 95 Less than Significant Impact. Most of the Project ite is designated as Zone X on the most recent Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) No. 06107C1634E dated June 16, 2009 (see Figure 4-4). 32 Zone X is a flood hazard area with a 0.2
percent annual chance of flood hazard and one (1) precent annual chance flood with average depth less than one foot or with drainage areas of less than one (1) square mile. However, a portion of the Project Site is within Zone AO, which is a flood hazard area with a 1% annual chance of experiencing a flood. Drainage of potential waters on the site would be planned through Project-specific grading and drainage plans that would be reviewed and approved by the City prior to the issuance of building permits. Therefore, water would not remain on the site that could cause a flood hazard. In addition, the Project Site is not in a tsunami or seiche zone (i.e., standing waves on rivers, reservoirs, ponds, and lakes), therefore the risk of inundation is unlikely. For these reasons, the Project would have a less than significant impact.
e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan?
Less than Significant Impact. A revised groundwater sustainability plan was adopted for the Tule Groundwater Subbasin in July of 2024 by the Eastern Tule Groundwater Sustainability Agency (ETGSA), of which the City of Porterville is a member. 33 The goal of the Tule subbasin and ETGSA is to ensure that the subbasin maintains a reliable water supply for current and future beneficial uses without experiencing undesirable results through 2040. The proposed Project is required to comply with the adopted plan to meet the 2040 sustainability deadline for the basin. During the preparation of the City’s 2020 UWMP, the City coordinated with the Eastern Tule Groundwater Sustainability Agency, Porterville Irrigation District, and County of Tulare to ensure that the city’s UWMP is in compliance with the goals of these agencies. As such, compliance with the City’s 2020 UWMP would ensure that the Project does not conflict or obstruct the implementation of the ETGSA plan. In addition, the City has largely attained the balanced use of groundwater supplies well ahead of the legislative requirement of 2040, thus making the City compliant with the Eastern Tule Groundwater Sustainability Plan goals. As mentioned above, impacts to groundwater supplies from the proposed Project will not be beyond those analyzed in the General Plan, PEIR, or UWMP. For these reasons, a less than significant impact would occur because of the Project.

4.10.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.
32 FEMA. FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Accessed October 18, 2024, https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home 33 Eastern Tule Groundwater Sustainability Agency (2024). Groundwater Sustainability Plan. Accessed October 18, 2024, https://easterntulegsa.com/gsp/

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 96 Figure 4-4 Flood Zone Map

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March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 97

4.11 LAND USE PLANNING
Would the Project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Physically divide an established
community? X
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?
X

4.11.1 Environmental Setting
The Project Site is an unincorporated County island surrounded by the City of Porterville. The Project proposes the annexation of the site into the city limits of Porterville.

The Project site has a split General Plan Land Use designation of Education and Parks and Recreation. The Project proposes a General Plan Amendment to amend the site to the Low Medium Density Residential land use designation. According to the General Plan, the Low Medium Density Residential land use designation is “for typical single-family subdivisions but allows for smaller lots. The maximum residential density is 9.0 units per gross acre.” The Project Site is currently within the City’s RM-1, Low Medium Density Residential, Zone District. According to the PMC, the purpose of the RM-1 district is to “accommodate low-medium densities and more varied forms of residential development, including small-lot single-family homes, detached zero lot line developments, duplexes, townhouses, and garden apartments with a maximum residential density of 11.3 units per net acre.” No change in zoning is proposed.

4.11.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Physically divide an established community?
Less than Significant Impact. Typically, physical division of an established community would occur if a Project introduced new incompatible uses inconsistent with the planned or existing land uses or created a physical barrier that impeded access within the community. Typical examples of physical barriers include the introduction of new, intersecting roadways, roadway closures, and construction of new major utility infrastructure (e.g., transmission lines, storm channels, etc.).

Surrounding Land Uses
The Project Site is surrounded by vacant land and single-family residences to the north and single-family residences to the south, east, and west. As referenced in Table 2-1, the Project Site is surrounded by properties planned and zoned for residential uses. Proposed site improvements would be regulated by development standards and zoning regulations, including height, landscaping, setbacks, improvements, right-of-way dedications, open space, etc. As such, the Project would be consistent and therefore compatible with the existing residential uses surrounding the

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 98 Project Site. Therefore, implementation of the Project would be generally consistent with the existing and planned land uses within the Project Site.

Circulation System
Street frontage includes East Morton Avenue, a two (2)-lane road that is designated as a four (4)-lane major arterial in the Porterville 2030 General Plan Circulation Element, bounds the Project ite to the north. North Leggett Street, a two (2)-lane road that is designated as a collector, bounds the Project Site to the east. North Henry Street, a two (2)-lane local road bounds the Project Site to the west. Access to the Project Site would be provided by one (1) point of ingress/egress from Morton Avenue, one (1) point of ingress/egress from Henry Street, and one (1) point of ingress/egress from Cleveland Avenue. The Project includes dedication of rights-of-way along Morton Avenue, Henry Street, and Leggett Street. The rights-of-way would be improved in accordance with City standards. Public local roadways are also proposed within the subdivision to provide for internal circulation. All roadways within the proposed subdivision would be designed in accordance with City standards and would have curb, gutter, and sidewalk. Since internal roadways connect to the existing roads (i.e., Morton Avenue, Henry Street, and Cleveland Avenue), the Project would be served by the existing circulation system and related infrastructure. Therefore, implementation of the Project would not include the introduction of new, intersecting roadways. Therefore, a less than significant impact would occur.

Utility Infrastructure
The Project Site is proposed to be annexed to city limits and thus, would be required to connect to water, wastewater, and stormwater services. Natural gas, electricity, and telecommunications are provided by private companies. Utility systems are described and analyzed in Section 4.10 and Section 4.15. Based on the analysis, implementation of the Project would not result in the construction of new, major utility infrastructure.

As such, the Project does not represent a significant change in the surrounding area as it would develop an undeveloped site with residential uses that are consistent and compatible with existing uses surrounding the Project Site. In addition, the Project provides connections to existing roadways designated in the General Plan and does not include major utility infrastructure. For these reasons, the Project would not result in the physical division of an established community and would thereby have a less than significant impact. 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? Less than Significant Impact. The Project proposes to construct a 160-unit residential development with the approval of the associated annexation, general plan amendment, tentative subdivision map, and conditional use permit. Approval of the General Plan Amendment would change the land use designation from the Parks and Recreation and Education to Low Medium Density Residential. The Project Site is currently pre-zoned by the City as RM-1, which would be consistent with the proposed general plan land use designation.

Generally, policy conflicts are environmental impacts when they would result in direct physical impacts or where those conflicts relate to avoiding or mitigating environmental impacts. As such, associated physical environmental impacts are discussed in this document under specific topical sections, such as Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, and Tribal Cultural Resources. The Project includes a conditional use permit to allow for reduced lot sizes. According to the PMC, the RM-1 Zone District requires a minimum lot size of 6,000 sf. However, smaller lots

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 99 with a minimum area of 3,000 sf., a minimum lot width of 35 feet (ft.), and a minimum lot depth of 60 ft. may be approved with a Conditional Use Permit when the City Council finds that the lot size and configuration are consistent with the General Plan and will not adversely affect adjoining uses. A discussion of general plan land use policies that are applicable to the Project are included in Table 4-11. As discussed, the Project is generally consistent with the proposed general plan land use designation of Low Medium Density Residential.

Table 4-11 Discussion on Land Use Policies in the General Plan for Residential Development General Plan Policy Project Consistency
Implementation Policy LU-I-5 Require contiguous
development within the UDB unless it can be
demonstrated that development of property which is
contiguous to urban development is unavailable.

Consistent. The Project Site is an unincorporated
island surrounded by the City of Porterville. As
such, it is within the UDB and development is
contiguous with existing urbanized areas.

Guiding Policy L-G-6 Provide for residential development with strong community identities, appropriate and
compatible scales of development, identifiable centers
and edges and well-defined public spaces for recreation and civic activities.

Consistent. The Project proposes a residential
development with that would create a cohesive
neighborhood with a proposed park to provide
public space for recreation.

Guiding Policy LU-G-9 Provide sufficient land with
appropriate parcel sizes to support a full range of housing types and prices.

Consistent. The Project proposes 160 lots with sizes
ranging from 3,993 square feet to 7,311 square feet
that would provide a range of home sizes and prices.

Guiding Policy LU-I-18 Protect existing residential
neighborhoods from the encroachment of incompatible
activities and land uses, and environmental hazards.

Consistent. The Project Site is largely surrounded by
existing single-family residential development. The
Project also proposes a residential development,
which is not compatible with the existing character
of the area.

Implementation Policy LU-I-11 Only allow gated
communities in very low density, planned development
areas, and Resort Residential areas.

Consistent. The Project Site does not propose a
gated community.

Implementation Policy LU-I-12 Require residential
development on slopes over six percent to comply with
the Hillside Development Ordinance.

This ordinance establishes a Hillside Development zoning district with standards and review procedures tailored to the City’s needs and expectation for hillside development.

Not Applicable. The Project Site is not within the
Hillside Development zoning district.

Implementation Policy LU-I-13 Discourage residential
development within the Airport Safety Zone. If residential development is approved in the County within the Airport Safety Zone, it must comply with Tulare County Airport
Land Use Commission’s land-use compatibility standards
and density restrictions.

Not Applicable. The Project Site is not within an
Airport Safety Zone.

Implementation Policy LU-I-15 Adopt community design
standards for new residential development.

These could include but are not limited to:
• Maximum block length;
• Maximum ratio of block length to width;
• Limited use of dead-end streets;
• Orientation of residential building; and
Consistent. The Project is generally consistent since
there are no dead-end streets, structures would be
oriented towards internal roadways, and
connectivity is provided to street frontages via three
(3) access points. The maximum block length and
ratio of block length and width are reviewed by the
Planning, Engineering, and Fire Departments to

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 100 • Required connectivity
Exceptions may be provided for infill sites and projects in the Hillside Development Zone.
ensure that they do not pose a hazard to the
community.

Implementation Policy LU-I-16 Require that all new
subdivisions preserve natural, cultural, and biological resources, including stands of large trees and rock
outcroppings, to the maximum extent feasible.

Consistent. A discussion of the Project’s impacts on
cultural and biological resources are discussed in
Section 4.4 and Section 4.5.

Implementation Policy PU-I-8: Require that agricultural water rights be assigned to the City when agricultural
land is annexed to the City for urban development,
consistent with this General Plan.

Consistent. Because the Project site is agricultural
land that will be annexed to the City for urban
development, approval of the Project would be
subject to assignment of water rights.

Further, through the entitlement process, the Projectwould be reviewed for compliance with applicable regulations inclusive of those adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating environmental effects. Overall, the entitlement process would ensure that the Project complies with the General Plan, PMC, and any other applicable policies and regulations. As such, a less than significant impact would occur.

4.11.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 101

4.12 MINERAL RESOURCES
Would the Project:

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?
X
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?
X

4.12.1 Environmental Setting
For the purposes of CEQA, mineral resources are land areas or deposits deemed significant by the California Department of Conservation (DOC). Mineral resources include oil, natural gas, and metallic and nonmetallic deposits, including aggregate resources.

Mineral Resources
The California Geological Survey (CGS) classifies and designates areas within California that contain or potentially contain significant mineral resources. Lands are classified into Aggregate and Mineral Resource Zones (MRZs), which identify known or inferred significant mineral resources. According to the California Department of Conservation, CGS’s Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) Mineral Lands Classification (MLC) data portal, the Mineral Land Classification Map in 1997 shows that the Project is not within a mineral resource zone. 34 According to the Porterville 2030 General Plan, the most economically significant mineral resources in Tulare County are sand, gravel, and crushed stone. These sources are usually alluvial deposits found in riverbeds and floodplains, and hard rock quarries. There are currently three (3) active construction grade sand and gravel mining sites in the City’s Planning Area along the Tule River. The General Plan established the following policies to protect mineral resources in the City’s Planning Area.

Guiding Policy OSC-G-6 Protect significant mineral resources.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-24 Require all mining and sand extraction operations to mitigate completely environmental impacts, including operations affecting water quality, habitat preservation, aesthetics and bridge undermining, and to submit reclamation and ultimate use plans for City approval prior to initiating operations.

Implementation Policy OSC-I-25 Work with Tulare County to ensure that reclamation and ultimate use plans for mining operations land are consistent with the General Plan. 34 California Department of Conservation. (1997). Mineral Lands Classification. Accessed on October 21, 2024, https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/informationwarehouse/index.html?map=mlc

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 102 Oil/Gas Wells
The Geologic Energy Management Division’s (CalGEM) online mapping application, Well Finder, presents California’s oil and gas industry information, including the location of oil/gas wells, geothermal wells, gas/oil facilities (i.e., tank, vessel, sump), underground gas storage, as well as the boundaries of CalGEM-recognized oil/gas fields. According to Well Finder, the Project Site is not within a CalGEM-recognized oil/gas field. 35

4.12.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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?
No Impact. There are no identified mineral deposits of significance or active mine operations on the Project Site.

Therefore, the Project would not 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. Therefore, no impact would occur. 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?
No Impact. There are no identified mineral deposits of significance or active mine operations on the Project Site.

As a result, the Project would not 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. Further, the site is not delineated in the General Plan, a Specific Plan, or other land use plan as a locally important mineral resource recovery site, thus it would not result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource. Therefore, no impact would occur.

4.12.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.
35 California Department of Conservation Geologic Energy Management Division. Well Finder. Accessed on October 21, 2024, https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/doggr/wellfinder/

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 103

4.13 NOISE
Would the Project:

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?
X
b) Generation of excessive groundborne
vibration or groundborne noise
levels?
X
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?
X

4.13.1 Environmental Setting
In general, there are two (2) types of noise sources: 1) mobile sources and 2) stationary sources. Mobile source noises are typically associated with transportation including automobiles, trucks, trains, and aircraft. Stationary sounds are sources that do not move such as machinery or construction sites. Stationary sources can also include events, recreational uses, amplified systems, automotive repair facilities, building mechanical systems, and landscape maintenance. These sources can vary based on factors such as site conditions, equipment operated, and specific activities conducted. Noises generated are also directional but can vary based on site and operational characteristics.

Nosie-related impacts typically affect sensitive receptors, and land uses such as residential, schools, churches, nursing homes, hospitals, and open space/recreation areas. Commercial, farmland, and industrial areas are not considered noise sensitive and generally have higher tolerances for exterior and interior noise levels. Noise levels for noise-sensitive receptors will vary depending on location, distance from the source, shielding by terrain and structures, and ground attenuation rates.

Porterville 2030 General Plan
The Porterville 2030 General Plan Noise Element sets noise compatibility standards for transportation noise sources in terms of the Day‐Night Average Level (Ldn). The Ldn is the time‐weighted average noise level for a 24‐hour day with a penalty of 10 dB added to noise levels occurring during the nighttime hours (10:00 p.m.‐7:00 a.m.).

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 104 The Noise Element establishes a land use compatibility criterion of 60 dB Ldn for exterior noise levels in outdoor activity areas of residential developments. Outdoor activity areas generally include backyards of single‐family residences and outdoor common use areas as well as individual patios or decks of multi‐family developments. The intent of the exterior noise level requirement is to provide an acceptable noise environment for outdoor activities and recreation.

The Noise Element also provides land use compatibility guidelines for community noise exposure levels. Figure 4-5 (Table 9‐1 in the General Plan Nosie Element) summarizes land use compatibility guidelines for various noise exposure levels within the community. An exterior noise level up to 60 dB Ldn is considered “Normally Acceptable” and an exterior noise level between 60 dB Ldn and 70 dB Ldn is considered “Conditionally Acceptable” for residential land uses within the City of Porterville. Exterior noise levels above 70 dB Ldn are generally considered unacceptable for residential land uses.

Figure 4-5 Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 105 The City Code of Porterville, California
The PMC, Chapter 18, Article IX, provides standards for noise levels, as discussed below.

Section 18-90.4 – Exterior Noise Standards provides thresholds of the creation of noise when measured at any affected residence, school, hospital, church or public library, as listed in Table 4-12. Additionally, each noise level shall be further reduced by five (5) dBA for pure tone noises, noises consisting primarily of speech or music, or for recurring impulsive noises.

Table 4-12 Exterior Noise Level Standards, dBA
Category
Daytime
7:00 A.M. To 10:00 P.M.

Nighttime
10:00 P.M. To 7:00 A.M.

Hourly Leq 50 45
Maximum sound level (LMAX) 70 65
Section 18-90.5 – Residential Interior Noise Standards provides thresholds of noise measured inside a dwelling unit.

The maximum sound level allowed is 55 dBA LMAX during the daytime and 45 dBA LMAX during the nighttime. Similarly, each noise level shall be further reduced by five (5) dBA for pure tone noises, noises consisting primarily of speech or music, or for recurring impulsive noises.

Section 18-90.6 – Noise Source Exemptions provides a list of activities exempted from the provisions of Article IX.

Some activities associated with Project construction and residential activities are listed below:

B. Noises resulting from any authorized emergency vehicle, when responding to an emergency call or acting in time of emergency.

E. Any mechanical device, apparatus or equipment used, related to, or connected with emergency activities or emergency work.

F. Noise sources associated with construction, whether private or public, within five hundred feet (500') of the uses mentioned in subsection 18-90.4 of this article, provided such activities do not take place before six o'clock (6:00) A.M. or after nine o'clock (9:00) P.M. on any day except Saturday or Sunday, or before seven o'clock (7:00) A.M. or after five o'clock (5:00) P.M. on Saturday or Sunday.

G. Noise sources associated with the maintenance of residential property provided such activities take place between the hours of six o'clock (6:00) A.M. and nine o'clock (9:00) P.M. on any day except Saturday or Sunday, or between the hours of seven o'clock (7:00) A.M. and nine o'clock (9:00) P.M. on Saturday or Sunday.

I. Noise sources associated with the collection of waste or garbage.

Existing Ambient Noise Environment
The Project Site’s existing noise environment is impacted by various noise sources. As previously discussed, the Project ite is largely surrounded by single-family residences as well as an institutional use to the east. Associated noise from residential uses includes vehicles and typical neighborhood noise (i.e. talking, car doors shutting, dogs barking, etc.), which are usually minimized by trees and landscaping. The Project Site is not located within the Airport Influence Area (AIA) of the Porterville Municipal Airport, nor is it within the Airport’s community noise

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 106 equivalent level (CNEL) noise contour. Other sources of noise include the vehicular traffic on Morton Avenue and Legget Street, which are both street frontages of the Project Site.

4.13.2 Impact Assessment
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 in other applicable local, state, or federal standards?
Less than Significant Impact. Noise generating activities of the Project would include traffic noise and stationerysource noise, such as operations and construction as described below. It is not anticipated that the Project would generate 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 in other applicable local, state, or federal standards, given the type of development proposed (i.e., residential).

Traffic Noise Exposure
Mobile source noises are typically associated with transportation including automobiles, trains, and aircraft.

Sensitive land uses include residential, schools, churches, nursing homes, hospitals, and open space-recreation areas. Commercial, farmland, and industrial areas are not considered noise sensitive and generally have higher tolerances for exterior and interior noise levels. The nearest sensitive land uses are single-family residences to the west of the Project Site.

According to the General Plan Noise Element, portions of the Project Site are within the 55 Ldn dBA and 60 Ldn dBA contour under noise levels of the year 2030 from vehicles traveling on Morton Avenue. Traffic noise depends primarily on traffic volume, traffic speed, and truck traffic percentage.

The primary source of exterior, on-going noise from full buildout of the Project would be from vehicles traveling to and from the site. Future build-out of the Project ite would generate an increase in traffic on roadways in the Project vicinity. However, the number of new trips (i.e., 1,509 ADTs) associated with build-out of the Project Site is not likely to increase the ambient noise levels by a significant amount as the area is active with vehicles. Additionally, increased traffic noise levels on Morton Avenue due to build-out of the Project is expected to be minimal since the trips generated does not include trucks. Accordingly, it is expected that the traffic noise levels will increase minimally and will not cause a significant impact.

Operational Noise Exposure
The proposed residential use is expected to generate typical neighborhood noise (i.e. talking, car doors shutting, dogs barking, etc.). These noises are expected to be minimal due to the relatively low number of units proposed (i.e., 160 units), and will not introduce a new significant source of noise that isn’t already occurring in the area. In addition, household machinery sounds (e.g., HVAC systems, refrigerators, etc.) will be confined within the interior of the buildings. As such, it is expected that the operational noise generated by the Project will be minimal and most likely not cause significant impact to existing uses.

Construction Noise Exposure
Construction noise will result from construction activities through the use of construction equipment for grading the site and building the proposed structures. Construction phases would include demolition, site preparation,

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 107 grading, building construction, architectural coating, and paving. Of all construction phases, it is anticipated that grading would produce the loudest noise.

Construction noise was estimated using the FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model (RCNM) Version 1.0. For the purpose of this noise assessment, general construction equipment, including air compressors, mixers, cranes, forklifts, generator sets, graders, pavers, paving equipment, rollers, dozers, tractors, and welders, are included in the construction noise modeling. According to existing and anticipated land use within and around the Project Site, the baseline and receptors that are analyzed in the RCNM are shown in Table 4-13.

Table 4-13 Receptors and Baseline Analyzed in the RCNM
Location Land Use Total dB Lmax * Total dB Leq **
50 feet to the west Residential 89.5 88.3
* Total Lmax is the value for the loudest piece of equipment. ** This number estimates noise when all equipment is used at the same time.

Short-term construction noises include traffic noise generated from transporting construction equipment and materials and construction worker commuting. These activities would raise noise levels near the site. According to modeling of the FHWA RCNM Version 1.0, construction noise generated from the offroad equipment is estimated to be 88.3 dB Leq if all equipment was used at the same time. Ambient noise from construction activities would cease upon completion of construction.

Although the nearby residential uses would experience elevated noise levels from construction, these activities would be temporary and would generally take place in accordance with PMC Section 18-90.6, which regulates permissible hours of construction between the hours of 6:00 am and 9:00 pm on weekdays and 7:00 am and 9:00 pm on weekends. According to the FHWA Highway Construction Noise Handbook, noise exceeding 90 Lmax in the daytime (7 am to 6 pm) and 85 Lmax in the evening (6 pm to 10 pm) is considered significant. It is not expected that the construction of the Project would exceed the construction noise thresholds of the FHWA since 1) not all construction equipment is expected to be used at the same time and 2) trees between the site and nearby residences, as well as windows and walls of the residences would provide noise reduction.

Overall, Project construction is not expected to result in a significant impact because the noise would be regulated by the PMC. Noise would thereby be generated during daylight hours and not during evening or more noisesensitive time periods; and the increase in noise would cease upon complete build-out of the Project. For these reasons, a less than significant impact would occur.

Although the Project would result in increased ambient noise levels at the Project Site, compliance with the General Plan policies and PMC requirements would result in the Project’s compliance with applicable standards. Overall, the Project would result in a less than significant impact in regard to noise. b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? Less than Significant Impact. Ground borne vibration may result from operations and/or construction, depending on the use of equipment (e.g., pile drivers, bulldozers, jackhammers, etc.), distance to affected structures, and soil type. Depending on the method, equipment-generated vibrations could spread through the ground and affect nearby buildings. The dominant sources of man‐made vibration are sonic booms, blasting, pile driving, pavement breaking, demolition, diesel locomotives, and rail‐car coupling. None of these activities are anticipated to occur with construction or operation of the proposed Project.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 108 One of the most recent references suggesting vibration guidelines is the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Transportation and Construction Vibration Guidance Manual. The Manual provides guidance for determining annoyance potential criteria and damage potential threshold criteria. These criteria are provided below in Table 4-14 and Table 4-15 , and are presented in terms of peak particle velocity (PPV) in inches per second (in/sec).

Table 4-14 Guideline Vibration Annoyance Potential Criteria Human Response
Maximum PPV (in/sec)
Transient Sources
Continuous/Frequent
Intermittent Sources
Barely Perceptible 0.04 0.01
Distinctly Perceptible 0.25 0.04
Strongly Perceptible 0.9 0.1
Severe 2.0 0.4
Source: Caltrans

Table 4-15 Guideline Vibration Damage Potential Threshold Criteria Structure and Condition
Maximum PPV (in/sec)
Transient Sources
Continuous/Frequent
Intermittent Sources
Extremely fragile, historic buildings, ancient monuments 0.12 0.08 Fragile buildings 0.2 0.1
Historic and some old buildings 0.5 0.25
Older residential structures 0.5 0.3
New residential structures 1.0 0.5
Modern industrial/commercial buildings 2.0 0.5
Source: Caltrans
The existing single-family residences located 50 feet west of the site were built in 1979, categorized as “older residential structures”. Typical vibration levels at distances of 50 feet are summarized by Table 4-16. Most of these levels are barely perceptible at 50 feet according to the vibration annoyance potential thresholds shown in . The vibration levels are also not expected to cause damage to the nearest sensitive use, older residential structures located 50 feet from the Project Site, according to the damage potential thresholds shown in .

Table 4-16 Typical Vibration Levels During Construction Equipment
PPV (in/sec)
At 25 feet At 50 feet At 100 feet At 300 feet
Bulldozer (Large) 0.089 0.0415 0.011 0.006
Bulldozer (Small) 0.003 0.0014 0.0004 0.00019
Loaded Truck 0.076 0.0355 0.01 0.005
Jackhammer 0.035 0.0163 0.005 0.002
Vibratory Roller 0.210 0.098 0.03 0.013
Caisson Drilling 0.089 0.0415 0.01 0.006
Source: California Department of Transportation
As a result, it is not expected that construction activities would exceed any significant threshold levels for annoyance or damage. Additionally, operational activities related to residential uses are non-perceptible (i.e., vibration from HVAC, refrigerators, etc.) thus would not create any vibration impacts. As such, the Project would have a less than significant impact.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 109 c) 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 expose people residing or working in the Project area to excessive noise levels?
No Impact. The nearest public airport or public use airport is the Porterville Municipal Airport located approximately

4.13.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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4.14 POPULATION AND HOUSING
Would the Project:

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)?
X
b) Displace substantial numbers of
existing people or housing,
necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
X

4.14.1 Environmental Setting
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(d) requires that a CEQA document discusses the ways in which the proposed Project could foster economic or population growth, or the construction of additional housing, either directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment. The CEQA Guidelines provide an example of a major expansion of a wastewater treatment plant that may allow for more construction within the service area. The CEQA Guidelines also note that the evaluation of growth inducement should consider the characteristics of a Project that may encourage or facilitate other activities that could significantly affect the environment. Direct and Indirect Growth Inducement consists of activities that directly facilitate population growth, such as construction of new dwelling units. A key consideration in evaluating growth inducement is whether the activity in question constitutes “planned growth.”
Tulare County of Association of Governments
The Tulare County Association of Governments (TCAG) is the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for Tulare County, inclusive of the City of Porterville. In 2022, TCAG adopted the long-term transportation planning document, 2022 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) that sets forth a forecasted development pattern, providing population and employment forecasts for the region between 2021 and 2046. 36 Tulare County is projected to increase by 85,734 people, build over 40,774 housing units, and add 31,709 jobs between 2021 and 2046, for a total population of 567,383, 195,210 total housing units, and 218,846 total jobs by 36 AMBAG. (2022). 2022 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy. Accessed October 21, 2024, https://tularecog.org/tcag/planning/rtp/rtp-2022/

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 111 2046. According to the City of Porterville Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP), the City of Porterville is projected to grow by 23,788 people between 2020 and 2040 from 63,505 to 87,293. 37

4.14.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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)? Less than Significant Impact. The Project includes a General Plan Amendment (GPA) that requests a change from the existing Parks and Recreation and Education land use designations to the Low Medium Density Residential land use designation. The proposed GPA would be consistent with the site’s RM-1 Low Medium Density Residential Zone District.

The Project proposes the development of a 160-lot single-family residential development. Based on an average household size of 4.39 per the City’s Urban Water Management Plan (See Section 4.10 Hydrology and Water Quality), 160 units could generate approximately 703 new residents (compared to 1 new resident if the site was built out under the current land use designation), thereby increasing the city’s population from 62,588 to 63,291.

The 160 units would also increase the total number of housing units from 19,212 to 19,372.

Overall, the population and housing units generated by the proposed Project would be within the City of Porterville Short Range Transit Plan projections for the City of Porterville. Therefore, the Project would not induce substantial unplanned growth and would have a less than significant impact. b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
Less than Significant Impact. There is one (1) existing single-family residence on the Project Site, with additional non-residential buildings (i.e., a metal shed and wooden barn) adjacent to the residence that would be demolished.

Development of the Project would result in a net gain of 159 housing units. Therefore, the Project would not displace a substantial number of existing people or housing and a less than significant impact would occur.

4.14.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.
37 City of Porterville. (2018). Short Range Transit Plan. Accessed October 21, 2024, https://tularecog.org/tcag/planning/rtp/rtp-2022/appendices/appendix-1-s-porterville-short-range-transit-plan/

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 112

4.15 PUBLIC SERVICES
Would the Project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) 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:

i. Fire protection? X
ii. Police protection? X
iii. Schools? X
iv. Parks? X
v. Other public facilities? X

4.15.1 Environmental Setting
The Project Site would be annexed into Porterville city limits and thus, would be subject to fees for the construction, acquisition, and improvements for public services and facilities. Public services and facilities are further described below.

Fire Protection Services
Fire protection services in the City are provided by the Porterville Fire Department (PFD). The PFD operates a total of three (3) fire stations that serve the city, with Fire Station 71 closest to the Project Site at 40 West Cleveland Ave, Porterville, CA 93257. Fire Station 71 is located approximately 0.7 mile west of the Project Site. The total authorized staffing for PFD includes 42 sworn, full-time professional firefighters and administrative staff. In 2022, PFD responded to 5,453 calls for service and 519 calls for fires, which is a 19% increase in call volume over the last 10 years. The response time goal for fire protection and emergency services is to provide service within five (5) minutes of the 911 call for 80% of the time. The General Plan Public Health & Safety Element includes the following goals and policies to ensure reductions in the potential for fire hazards and fire demand:

Guiding Policy PHS-G-3 Protect Porterville’s residents and businesses from potential fire hazards.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-13 Maintain automatic and/or mutual aid agreements with surrounding jurisdictions for fire protection.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-14 Enforce weed abatement programs and building and fire code requirements to assure adequate fire protection.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 113 Implementation Policy PHS-I-15 Develop and expand existing public fire safety and emergency life support education programs in order to promote public awareness of fire hazards and emergency procedures.

Implementation Policy PHS-I-16 Establish fire hazard standards and review procedures at least equivalent to State requirements to protect new development on or adjacent to the hillsides.

The Subdivision Ordinance and the Zoning Ordinance standards will require new development on the urban fringe to incorporate fuel breaks, fuel reduction and buffer zones to minimize potential fire losses.

Further, projects are subject to review by the PFD and to regulations and standards such as the California Uniform Fire Code (UFC), which includes regulations on construction, maintenance and building use. The UFC addresses fire department access, fire hydrants, sprinklers, fire alarm system, etc., for new buildings.

Police Protection Services
Police protection services in the City are provided by the Porterville Police Department (PPD). The PPD is located at 350 North D Street, Porterville, CA 93257, which is approximately 0.8 mile west of the Project Site. According to the General Plan, there are 57 peace sworn officers, and 22 civilian staff members employed, which provides a ratio of approximately 1.3 officers per thousand residents. According to the PPD, a ratio of 1.2 police officers per thousand residents would support adequate law enforcement efforts at buildout of the General Plan.

Schools
Educational services within the City of Porterville are provided by Porterville Unified School District, Burton School District, and Tulare County Office of Education (TCOE). The five (5) school districts operate 28 public schools within the City’s Planning Area. The Project Site is located within the Porterville Unified School District (PUSD), which includes 11 elementary schools, five (5) middle schools, eight (8) high schools, adult school, preschool programs, and a community day school. PUSD schools within a one (1)-mile radius of the Protect site includes Roche Avenue Elementary.

The Porterville 2030 General Plan projected the generation of 13,069 new students at buildout of the General Plan, resulting in a total of 30,814 students, which would produce a demand of 12 new elementary schools, two (2) new middle schools, and three (3) new high schools. Funding for schools and school facilities impacts is outlined in Education Code Section 17620 and Government Code Section 65995 et. seq. (State statutes) which govern the amount of fees that can be levied against new development. These fees are used to construct new or expanded school facilities. Payment of fees authorized by the statute is deemed “full and complete mitigation.” A School District Developer Fee would be assessed for development based on the rates in place at the time payment is due.

Parks and Recreation
Park and recreation facilities are overseen by the City of Porterville Parks & Leisure Services Department. According to the General Plan, there are 15 planned and existing parks within the City, totaling 295 acres of parkland, which provides a parkland to population ratio of 4.7 acres of parkland per thousand people in 2020. This meets the 1975 Quimby Act, which requires a minimum of three (3) acres per thousand residents. However, it does not meet the City’s park standard for neighborhood and community parks, which requires five (5) acres per thousand residents.

This could be provided through in-lieu fees that would be used for any capacity-building park and recreation facility improvements. The General Plan Parks, Schools, and Community Facilities Element also established policies for parks and recreational facilities, as listed below.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 114 Guiding Policy PSCF-G-1 Establish and maintain a high-quality, enjoyable, and attractive public park system for the entire community.

Guiding Policy PSCF-G-2 Provide park and recreation facilities within close proximity to residents they are intended to serve.

Implementation Policy PSCF-I-5 Require developers for new neighborhoods to agree to the establishment of, or annexation into, a Park Maintenance District in new neighborhoods.

Implementation Policy PSCF-I-8 Provide lighted facilities for active community recreation areas in order to extend usability, whenever possible.

Address compatibility with surrounding uses and use energy-efficient lighting design with limited glare and spillover.

Implementation Policy PSCF-I-9 Design park and recreation facilities to be as flexible as possible, so that they may adapt to changes in the population served and in the recreation programs offered.

Changing neighborhood demographics can lead to different user requirements over the life of a park. By having flexible park facilities, this will enable the park to adapt to the changing needs of the adjacent neighborhood.

Implementation Policy PSCF-I-10 Place neighborhood and community parks at the core of new neighborhoods and co-locate parks and school sites where possible, as depicted on the General Plan Land Use Diagram.

Implementation Policy PSCF-I-11 Combine use of park, recreation, and open space lands with drainage facilities and school facilities, where feasible.

Implementation Policy PSCF-I-14 Develop a safe and efficient trail network throughout the City that links parks and other key City destinations.

4.15.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Would the Project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, or the 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:
i. Fire protection?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project site is currently served by the Tulare County Fire Department. Once annexed, the Project Site would then be served by the Porterville Fire Department. Porterville Fire Station 71 is located approximately 0.7 miles west of the Project Site. The Project’s proximity to the existing fire station would support adequate service ratios, response times, and other performance objectives for fire protection services.

Additionally, through the entitlement and building permit process, the Project would be required to comply with the CBC and Uniform Fire Code to ensure fire safety elements are incorporated into Project design. Proposed interior streets would be required to provide appropriate widths and turning radii to safely accommodate

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 115 emergency response and the transport of emergency/public safety vehicles. The Project would also be designed to meet City requirements regarding water flow, water storage requirements, hydrant spacing, infrastructure sizing, and emergency access. Through compliance, impacts would be less than significant. ii. Police protection?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project Site would be served by the Porterville Police Department (PPD). The PPD is located at 350 North D Street, Porterville, CA 93257, which is approximately 0.8 mile west of the Project Site. The Project’s proximity to the existing station would support adequate service ratios, response times, and other performance objectives for police protection services. For these reasons, it can be determined that the Project would not result in the need for new or altered facilities that could have an environmental impact and a less than significant impact would occur.
iii. Schools?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project Site is within the Porterville Unified School District (PUSD) with five (5) schools within a one-mile radius including Roche Avenue Elementary School, Los Robles Elementary School, John J.

Doyle Elementary School, Citrus High School, and Granite Hills High School. Since residential development is proposed, the Project would introduce residents to the area and therefore could generate new students that would increase the school districts’ enrollment. To offset impacts of the development, a School District Developer Fee would be assessed for the Project based on the rates in place at the time payment is due. As stated in Government Code Section 65995 et seq., payment of a school impact fee is deemed full and complete mitigation for potential impacts to schools caused by development. Therefore, payment of the assessed School District Developer Fee would reduce impacts related to new school facilities resulting from implementation of the Project and impacts would be less than significant.
iv. Parks?
Less than Significant Impact. Park and recreational facilities are typically impacted by an increase in use from residential development. The Project proposes residential development that would introduce residents to the area and therefore could increase the demand for and use of existing public parks or other recreational facilities. The City aims to maintain a standard of 5 acres of combined park and open space land per 1,000 residents. The Project proposes a 38,325 square foot (approximately 0.88 acre) park that would provide open space and recreational opportunities for residents. The Project would result in a ratio of approximately 1.65 acres per 1,000 residents. The Project would also be required to pay in-lieu fees to mitigate any potential remaining impacts to the City’s existing park and recreation facilities generated by the incremental population increase. The combination of dedication of land and payment of in-lieu fees would reduce any impacts resulting from increased residential demand for park and recreational facilities so as to not cause substantial physical deterioration of the public facilities. For these reasons, the Project would have a less than significant impact. v. Other public facilities?
Less than Significant Impact. As previously discussed, the Project would introduce residents to the area and thus increase the demand for other public services, such as courts, libraries, hospitals, etc. Increased demand as a result of the Project could result in the development or expansion of public facilities. Typical environmental impacts associated with the development of these facilities include air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, noise, traffic, etc.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 116 The expansion of these facilities would be subject to CEQA as they are proposed. In addition, future development would be subject to the payment of impact fees in order to mitigate any potential impacts to these public facilities.

As a result, the Project would have a less than significant impact.

4.15.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 117

4.16 RECREATION
Would the Project:

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?
X
b) Does the Project include recreational
facilities or require the construction or
expansion of recreational facilities
which might have an adverse physical
effect on the environment?
X

4.16.1 Environmental Setting
See Section 4.15.

4.16.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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? Less than Significant Impact. Park and recreational facilities are typically impacted by an increase in use from residential development. The Project proposes residential development that would introduce residents to the area and therefore could increase the demand for and use of existing public parks or other recreational facilities. The City aims to maintain a standard of five (5) acres of combined park and open space land per 1,000 residents. The Project proposes a 38,325 square foot (approximately 0.88 acre) park that would provide open space and recreational opportunities for residents. The Project would result in a ratio of approximately 1.25 acres per 1,000 residents(0.88 acres/703 residents). The Project would also be required to pay in-lieu fees to mitigate any potential remaining impacts to the City’s existing park and recreation facilities generated by the incremental population increase. The combination of dedication of land and payment of in-lieu fees would reduce any impacts resulting from increased residential demand for park and recreational facilities to not cause substantial physical deterioration of the public facilities. For these reasons, the Project would have a less than significant impact. b) Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities that might have an adverse physical effect on the environment?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project proposes a 38,325 square foot (approx. 0.88 acre) park on site that would provide open space and recreational opportunities for residents. The Project would not require the construction or expansion of off-site recreational facilities. As a result, a less than significant impact would occur.

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4.16.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

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4.17 TRANSPORTATION
Would the Project:

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?
X
b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA
Guidelines § 15064.3, subdivision (b)? X
c) Substantially increase hazards due to
a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp
curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
X
d) Result in inadequate emergency
access? X

4.17.1 Environmental Setting
The Project Site currently operates as agricultural uses with four (4) structures, including a single-family residence and detached garage, a metal equipment shed, and a wooden barn. Street frontage includes East Morton Avenue, a two (2)-lane road that is designated as a four (4)-lane major arterial in Porterville 2030 General Plan Circulation Element, bounds the Project Site to the north. North Leggett Street, a two (2)-lane road that is designated as a collector, bounds the Project site to the east. North Henry Street, a two (2)-lane local road bounds the Project Site to the west. There are no improvements along the street frontages. 2022 Regional Active Transportation Plan for the Tulare County Region The 2022 Regional Active Transportation Plan (RATP) for the Tulare County Region, approved April 18, 2022, was prepared as a response to recognition of the benefits of active transportation and a more diverse transportation for the county. The objective of the RATP is 1) provide a foundation for the pedestrian and bicycle component of the Tulare County Regional Transportation Plan / Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), and 2) identify highpriority projects to better compete for federal, state, and regional funding. 38 The RATP provides assessment and identifies priority projects for the county as well as cities within the County, including the City of Porterville.

According to the RATP, 1.7% of commuters walked to work and 0.5% of commuters biked to work in the City of Porterville. Traffic collisions in the City includes 27 pedestrian victims (1 killed, 4 severely injured) and 24 bicyclist victims (0 killed, 1 severely injured) in 2019. The roads with the highest numbers of collisions in the City are 38 Tulare County Association of Governments. (2022). 2022 Regional Active Transportation Plan for the Tulare County Region.

Accessed October 21, 2024, https://tularecog.org/sites/tcag/assets/File/TCAG%202022%20RATP_.pdf

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 120 Henderson Avenue, Morton Avenue, Olive Avenue, Putnam Avenue and Westfield Avenue. Priority projects in the City of Porterville include:

1. Morton Avenue crosswalk warning lights

2. Orange Avenue crosswalk warning lights

3. Main Street crosswalk warning lights

4. Tule River Parkway multi-use trail, Phase IV

5. Porterville citywide bikeway network

6. Putnam and Elderwood Pedestrian Corridor

7. Butterfield Stage Corridor
Porterville 2030 General Plan
The Circulation Element of the Porterville 2030 General Plan established policies to maintain the operations of existing roadway systems as new development occurs. These policies aim to prevent negative impacts caused by new developments and ensure that adequate transportation system is provided. The following goals and policies are generally applicable to the proposed Project.

Implementing Policy C-I-2 Require all new developments to provide right-of-way and improvements consistent with the General Plan street designations and City street section standards.

Implementing Policy C-I-3 Provide for greater street connectivity by:
• Incorporating in subdivision regulations requirements for a minimum number of access points to existing local or collector streets for each development;
• Encouraging roundabouts over signals, where feasible and appropriate; • Requiring the bicycle and pedestrian connections from cul-de-sacs to nearby public areas and main streets; and
• Requiring new residential communities on undeveloped land planned for urban uses to provide stubs for future connections to the edge of the property line. Where stubs exist on adjacent properties, new streets within the development should connect to these stubs.

Implementing Policy C-I-5 Install traffic calming devices, such as signage and bulbs, as needed and appropriate in existing neighborhoods.

Implementing Policy C-I-6 Require the installation of landscaping in center medians and at major intersections to minimize summer heat and enhance the character of the streetscapes.

For small-lot subdivisions (with an average lot size of 6,000 square feet or less), the planter strip for a local street may be omitted if:
• A five-foot sidewalk is provided on both sides of the street and trees are provided in the front yards of private lots parallel with the sidewalk at the minimum frequency required for street trees; and/or • Street trees are provided in landscaped bulb-outs into the parking lane at intersections.

Alternatively, where a planter strip is provided along a local street, the front setback for buildings may be reduced an additional two feet from the normally required setback.

Implementing Policy C-I-7 Require street tree planting as part of an urban forestry program.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 121 Guiding Policy C-G-6 Maintain acceptable levels of service and ensure that future development and the circulation system are in balance.

Implementing Policy C-I-8 Develop and manage the roadway system to obtain LOS D or better during the peak hour for all major roadways and intersections in the City. This policy does not extend to residential streets (i.e., streets with direct driveway access to homes) or state highways and their intersections, where Caltrans policies apply.

Exceptions to LOS D policy may be allowed by the City Council in areas such as downtown and at highway interchanges, where allowing a lower LOS would result in clear public benefits.

No new development will be approved unless it can be shown that required level of service can be maintained on the affected roadways or there are specific benefits that justify accepting a lower level of service.

Implementing Policy C-I-9 Develop and manage local residential streets (i.e., streets with direct driveway access to homes) to limit average daily vehicle traffic volumes to 2,500 or less and 85th percentile speeds to 25 miles per hour or less.

Neighborhood traffic control measures to be considered include: regulatory devices, such as right-of-way controls, speed limits, and parking regulations; as well as geometric fixtures such as roundabouts, semi-diverters, and diagonal diverters.

Implementing Policy C-I-10 Require traffic impact studies for all General Plan amendments that will generate more than 100 peak hour trips.

Exceptions may be granted where traffic studies have been completed for adjacent development. The City’s new traffic model developed for the 2030 General Plan will facilitate this analysis.

Guiding Policy C-G-7 Ensure that new development pays its fair share of the costs of transportation facilities.

Implementing Policy C-I-12 Continue to require that new development pay a fair share of the costs of street and other traffic and local transportation improvements based on traffic generated and impacts on traffic service levels.

Implementing Policy C-I-14 Require new development that will have an impact on regional transportation facilities to pay a regional transportation impact fee.

Implementing Policy C-I-16 Ensure that new development is designed to make transit a viable choice for residents.

Design options include:
• Have neighborhood focal points with sheltered bus stops; • Locate medium-high density development whenever feasible near streets served by transit; and • Link neighborhoods to bus stops by continuous sidewalks or pedestrian paths.

The General Plan Circulation Element also planned bikeway networks within the City. Within the vicinity of the Project Site, a Class II bike lane is proposed along East Morton Avenue and a Class III bike lane is proposed along North Leggett Street. Policies related to pedestrian and bicycle facilities are listed below.

Implementing Policy C-I-17 Establish bicycle lanes, bike routes and bike paths consistent with the General Plan.

Implementing Policy C-I-19 Increase bicycle safety by:
• Sweeping and repairing bicycle lanes and paths on a regular basis;

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 122 • Ensuring that bikeways are delineated and signed in accordance with Caltrans’ standards, and lighting is provided, where needed;
• Providing bicycle paths or lanes on bridges and overpasses; • Ensuring that all new and improved streets have bicycle-safe drainage grates and are free of hazards such as uneven pavement and gravel;
• Provide adequate signage and markings warning vehicular traffic of the existence of merging or crossing bicycle traffic where bike routes and paths make transitions into or across roadways; and • Work with the school districts to promote classes on bicycle safety in the schools.

Implementing Policy C-I-20 Give bikes equal treatment in terms of provisions for safety and comfort on arterials and collectors as motor vehicles.

Implementing Policy C-I-21 Develop a series of continuous walkways within new office parks, commercial districts, and residential neighborhoods so they connect to one another.

SB 743 Technical Advisory
In April 2018, the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) issued the Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA (Technical Advisory) (revised December 2018) to provide technical recommendations regarding VMT, thresholds of significance, and mitigation measures for a variety of land use Project types.

The Technical Advisory includes screening thresholds for agencies to use in order to identify when a Project should be expected to cause a less-than-significant impact without conducting a detailed study. • Screening Thresholds for Small Project. Absent substantial evidence indicating that a Projectwould generate a potentially significant level of VMT, or inconsistency with a Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) or general plan, Projects that generate or attract fewer than 110 trips per day generally may be assumed to cause a less-than significant transportation impact. This threshold is based on a CEQA categorical exemption for existing facilities, including additions to existing structures of up to 10,00 square feet, so long as the Project is in an area where public infrastructure is available to allow for maximum planned development and the Project is not in an environmentally sensitive area. • Map-Based Screening Threshold for Residential and Office Projects. Residential and office Projects that locate in areas with low VMT, and that incorporate similar features (i.e., density, mix of uses, transit accessibility), will tend to exhibit similarly low VMT. Maps created with VMT data, for example from a travel survey or a travel demand model, can illustrate areas that are currently below threshold VMT. Because new development in such locations would likely result in a similar level of VMT, such maps can be used to screen out residential and office Projects from needing to prepare a detailed VMT analysis. • Presumption of Less Than Significant Impact Near Transit Thresholds. Proposed CEQA Guideline Section 15064.3, subdivision (b)(1), states that lead agencies generally should presume that certain Projects (including residential, retail, and office Projects, as well as Projects that are a mix of these uses) proposed within ½ mile of an existing major transit stop20 or an existing stop along a high quality transit corridor will have a less-than-significant impact on VMT. This presumption would not apply, however, if Project-specific or location-specific information indicates that the Project will still generate significant levels of VMT.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 123 • Presumption of Less Than Significant Impact for Affordable Residential Development. Adding affordable housing to infill locations generally improves jobs-housing match, in turn shortening commutes and reducing VMT. Therefore, a Project consisting of a high percentage of affordable housing may be a basis for the lead agency to find a less-than-significant impact on VMT.

According to the Technical Advisory, lead agencies, using more location-specific information, may develop their own more specific thresholds, which may include other land use types. The City of Porterville has not developed their own specific thresholds; however, the City does use Tulare County’s Guidelines.

County of Tulare SB 743 Guidelines
In June of 2020, the County of Tulare published their own specific thresholds and guidelines related to VMT and SB 743 titled “County of Tulare SB 743 Guidelines,” which were adopted by the City of Porterville on September 21, 2021. The Guidelines are based on statewide guidance provided by OPR, but include clarifications and details tailored for and specific to local conditions in Tulare County. The Guidelines provide guidance for land development projects on screening criteria, VMT analysis, significance thresholds and potential mitigation.

According to the Guidelines, thresholds of significance for VMT analysis are based on OPR’s recommendations but have been refined to better reflect the predominantly rural nature of Tulare County. • VMT Per Capita Comparison. OPR recommends that residential and office projects compare project VMT/capita or VMT/employee to regional or city-wide average. For Tulare County, due to its predominantly rural character, these comparisons are made between project VMT and the average VMT/capita or between project VMT/employee for the average VMT/employee in the TAZ in which the project is located.
• Significance Thresholds. OPR recommends a significance threshold of 15% below average. For Tulare County, the significance threshold is below the TAZ average. Therefore, projects that have a VMT/capita or VMT/employee equal to or above the average VMT/capita or VMT/employee in the TAZ in which the project is located would be presumed to have a significant transportation impact.

4.17.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?
Less Than Significant Impact. The Project would be required to comply with all project-level requirements implemented by a program, plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. Compliance is further discussed below. Overall, the Project would not conflict with a program plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system and a less than significant impact would occur.

Roadway Facilities
Access to the site would be provided by one (1) point of ingress/egress on East Morton Avenue, one (1) point of ingress/egress on North Henry Street, and one (1) point of ingress/egress on Cleveland Avenue. Internal circulation within the proposed subdivision would be designed in accordance with City standards and would have curb, gutter,

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 124 and sidewalk. The Project also includes dedication of rights-of-way along Morton Avenue, Henry Street, and Leggett Street. The rights-of-way would be improved in accordance with City standards.

The Project would be required to submit public improvement plans for off-site improvements through the building permit process, for review and approval by the City to ensure improvements would be consistent with adopted standards, specifications, and approved street plans. Through compliance, the Project would result in improvements to the roadway network consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan as shown on the Circulation Diagram and described in the Circulation Element.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities
There are existing pedestrian facilities (i.e., sidewalks) along the street frontages on the opposite side of the Project Site. The General Plan Circulation Element identifies planned Class II bike land facilities along East Morton Avenue across the northern boundary of the Project Site and planned Class III bike lane facilities along North Leggett Street across the eastern boundary of the Project Site.

The Project would also result in public street improvements along Morton Avenue, Henry Street, and Leggett Street, including concrete curb, gutter, sidewalk, and paving per City of Porterville Standard Plans and Specifications. Offsite improvements would be verified and ensured through the Building Permit process. Provision of the pedestrian and bicycle facilities would be ensured through the Building Permit process. Therefore, the Project would be consistent with the General Plan and thereby would not conflict with a program, plan, ordinance, or policy addressing bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

Transit Facilities
There are no existing or planned transit facilities adjacent to the Project Site as identified by the General Plan. The closest bus stop to the Project is located approximately 430 feet southeast of the site on Putnam Avenue and Leggett Street (Stop ID: 3100). This route (Route 3) runs 18 times daily from Monday to Saturday and 14 times daily on Sunday within the City. Therefore, the Project would not conflict with a program, plan, ordinance, or policy addressing transit facilities.
b) Would the Project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b)? Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. The proposed Project is a residential subdivision within Traffic Analysis Zone (TAZ) 2734, which has a Daily VMT per Capita of 8.03. The Project can be considered a typical residential project within the TAZ and therefore the Project would be expected to have the same VMT per capita.

There are no special considerations with the Project to assume the Project would produce a VMT/capita lower than the average for the TAZ. The threshold of significance for residential project VMT/capita is if the project VMT is below the average in the TAZ where the project is located. Since VMT/capita is assumed to be equal to the average for the TAZ, it is anticipated that the proposed Project could have a significant transportation impact prior to mitigation.

The Tulare County VMT Guidelinesinclude a minimum cost for mitigation of $20 per daily trip generated by a project as a target value for pedestrian improvements. Using the 11th Edition Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Trip Generation Manual, the proposed Project is expected to generate 1,508 average daily trips (ADT) (160 singlefamily units multiplied by a 9.43 average rate). A $20 mitigation cost would equate to a target value for improvements of $30,160. The Project proposes approximately 3,600 linear feet of sidewalk improvements to

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March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 125 existing roadways, which would equate to a total estimated cost of $90,000 (3,600 linear feet x $25 per linear foot).

Therefore, with the construction of the identified improvements, the Project would meet the minimum cost requirement for mitigation.

Per the VMT Guidelines, if a project provides mitigation which meets the minimum threshold, a one (1) percent reduction in VMT can be presumed. The assumed VMT/capita reduction is one (1) percent of 8.03 or 0.0803. The resulting VMT/capita after mitigation is 7.9497 which is below the average VMT/capita in the TAZ which the Project is located. Implementation of Mitigation Measure TRA-1 will ensure impacts remain less than significant.

Mitigation Measure TRA-1: The project developer shall, as a condition of approval of the project, provide pedestrian improvements along Morton Avenue, Henry Street, and Leggett Street with a minimum total construction cost of $30,160.
c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? Less than Significant Impact. The Project design does not contain any geometric design features that would create hazards. Implementation of the Project would not require the improvement and expansion of the roadway network serving the Project Site. The site would be accessible via one (1) point of ingress/egress on East Morton Avenue, one (1) point of ingress/egress on North Henry Street, and one (1) point of ingress/egress on Cleveland Avenue.

Adequate inside/outside turning radii are also proposed for fire and solid waste vehicle access. In addition, the Project would be required to submit public improvement plans through the Building Permit process for review and approval by the City to ensure offsite improvements would be consistent with adopted City Standards, Specifications, and the approved street plans. Compliance with such standards, specifications, and plans would ensure that any traffic hazards are minimized. Lastly, the Project proposes a residential development of a site that is within an area comprising existing and planned residential uses. Therefore, the Project does not propose an incompatible use because it is consistent with the existing development in the area and is similar in nature to the surrounding uses. As a result, implementation of the Project would result in a less than significant impact related to hazards due to roadway design features or incompatible uses. d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
Less than Significant Impact. The Project does not involve a change to any emergency response plan. In addition, the City of Porterville Public Works Department and Fire Marshall have reviewed the Project and imposed standard conditions to ensure adequate site access including emergency access. In the case that Project construction requires lane closures, access would be maintained through standard traffic control and therefore, potential lane closures would not affect emergency evacuation plans. Thus, a less than significant impact would occur because of the Project.

4.17.3 Mitigation Measures
The Project shall implement and incorporate, as applicable, the Transportation-related mitigation measures as identified above and in the MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM contained in SECTION 5.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 126

4.18 TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
Would the Project:

Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a tribal cultural resource,
defined in PRC 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:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Listed or eligible for listing in the
California Register of Historical
Resources, or in a local register of
historical resources as defined in PRC
Section 5020.1(k), or,
X
b) 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 PRC Section
5024.1. In applying the criteria set
forth in subdivision (c) of PRC Section
5024.1, the lead agency shall consider
the significance of the resource to a
California Native American tribe.

4.18.1 Environmental Setting
See Section 4.5.

4.18.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project 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:
a) 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 Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. Based on the CHRIS Records Search conducted on October 7, 2024, there is one (1) recorded cultural resource eligible for National Register located on the Project Site. The resource is identified as P-54-003143, A. G. Shulz House, which is still in use. In order to ensure that the existing structure is not of historical significance at the time of demolition, the Project shall incorporate Mitigation Measure (MM) CUL-1 to mitigate the destruction or alteration of any potential historical structures.

Additionally, in the event of the accidental discovery and recognition of previously unknown historical resources before or during construction activities, the Project shall also incorporate MM CUL-2 to ensure that construction

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 127 activities do not result in significant impacts to any potential historical resources discovered below ground surface.

Thus, if such resources were discovered, implementation of the required mitigation measures would reduce the impact to less than significant. As a result, the Project would have a less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated.
b) 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.

Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. The Project Site and its resources have not been determined by the City to be significant pursuant to Section 5024.1. However, as discussed in Section 4.5, there is some possibility that a non-visible, buried site may exist and may be uncovered during ground disturbing construction activities which could constitute a significant impact. Therefore, the Project shall incorporate MM CUL2 to assure construction activities do not result in significant impacts to any potential resources of significance to a California Native American tribe discovered above or below ground surface. Thus, if such resources were discovered, implementation of the required mitigation measures would reduce the impact to less than significant.

As a result, the Project would have a less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated.

4.18.3 Mitigation Measures
The Project shall implement and incorporate, as applicable, the Tribal Cultural Resources related mitigation measures identified above and in the MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM contained in SECTION

5. INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 128

4.19 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
Would the Project:

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
effect?
X
b) Have sufficient water supplies available
to serve the Project and reasonably
foreseeable future development
during normal, dry and multiple dry
years?
X
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?
X
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?
X
e) Comply with federal, state, and local
management and reduction statutes
and regulations related to solid waste?
X

4.19.1 Environmental Setting
The Project Site would be annexed into Porterville city limits and thus would be required to connect to the city’s water, wastewater, and stormwater services. Natural gas, electricity, and telecommunications are provided by private companies. Each utility system is described below.

Water
Water supply, usage, and services are described in Section 4.10.

Wastewater
The City of Porterville Public Works Department operates and maintains the City’s municipal wastewater facilities.

There are approximately 150 miles of sewer pipe with diameters between six (6) inches to 36 inches; the majority of the sewer pipe is 12-inch. The primary existing trunk line adjacent to the Project Site includes a 24-inch pipe that

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 129 makes up the Grand-Newcomb Pipe. This sewer system services the entire General Plan Planning Area, which includes approximately 75.2% of the City’s Urban Area Boundary and all of the City’s Urban Development Boundary.

The remaining area that is within the Urban Area Boundary but outside the Urban Development Boundary is supported by on-site private septic systems. 39
The City’s wastewater is processed through the Porterville Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF), which has a capacity of eight million gallons per day. Due to the City’s flat topography, the sewer flows are conveyed via 18 different lift stations throughout the City.

Solid Waste
The City of Porterville Public Works department provides solid waste collection services for residential, commercial, and industrial developments in the City. Disposal services are provided by the Tulare County Waste Management Authority (CWMA), which transports waste to the Teapot Dome Landfill. This landfill is permitted to receive a maximum of 600 tons per day (2,222 cubic yards) and has a remaining capacity of 998,468 cubic yards, with an estimated closure date that lapsed in 2004. As of 2022, Teapot Dome was no longer taking non-refuse disposal, nor is it open to the general public. Once Teapot Dome reaches capacity, waste will be diverted to Woodville Landfill.40 Stormwater
Stormwater services are described in Section 4.10.

Natural Gas and Electricity
According to the Porterville 2030 General Plan, Southern California Edison is the electricity service provider. Power is provided through both overhead and undergrounded lines, with all new development required to underground power transmission lines. Natural gas is provided to residents through Southern California Gas Company.

Telecommunications
Telecommunications providers in the area incrementally expand and update their service systems in response to usage and demand. Upon request, the site would be connected to existing broadband infrastructure and subject to applicable connection and service fees.

4.19.2 Impact Assessment
Would the Project:
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?
39 2030 Porterville General Plan Public Utilities Element, http://www.ci.porterville.ca.us/depts/communitydevelopment/documents/Chapter8PublicUtilities_000.pdf, Accessed October 21, 2024.
40 2030 Porterville General Plan Public Utilities Element, http://www.ci.porterville.ca.us/depts/communitydevelopment/documents/Chapter8PublicUtilities_000.pdf, Accessed October 21, 2024.

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 130 Less than Significant Impact. Once annexed, the Project Site would be required to connect to water, stormwater, and wastewater services, and utilize solid waste collection services. Natural gas, electricity, and telecommunications would be provided by private companies. The City has reviewed the Project to determine adequate capacity in these systems and ensure compliance with applicable connection requirements. In addition to connections to water, stormwater, solid waste, and wastewater services, the Project would be served by Southern California Gas Company (SoCal Gas) and Southern California Edison for natural gas and electricity, respectively, and by the appropriate telecommunications provider for the Project ite. Therefore, all wet and dry public utilities, facilities, and infrastructure are in place and available to serve the Project Site without the need for relocated, new, or expanded facilities. While new utility and service connections would need to be extended to and from the Project Site (e.g., sewer, stormwater runoff, electrical), these new connections would not result in a need to modify the larger off-site infrastructure. Therefore, the Project would not require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded facilities and impacts would be less than significant. b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years?
Less than Significant Impact. Water supply reliability is assessed based on the characteristics of the City’s water supplies during various water year types. The City’s 2020 UWMP defines the water year types as follows. • Average Year: a year, or an averaged range of years, that most closely represents the average water supply available to the City. Generally, a year that represents the average precipitation on record. Based on the historic DWR precipitation records from 1988 to 2020, calendar year 2015 best characterizes average year condition.
• Single-dry Year – The year that represents the lowest water supply available to the City in a single year.

Based on historic DWR precipitation records from 1988 to 2020, the calendar year 2013 best characterizes single dry year conditions.
• Five-Consecutive Year Drought – the period that represents the driest five-year historical sequence for the City. Generally considered to be the lowest average runoff for a five-consecutive-year period. Based on historic DWR precipitation records from 1988 to 2020, the period from 2011 through 2015 best characterizes the five-year consecutive drought conditions.

According to the UWMP, the City is expected to have adequate water supplies during normal years to meet its projected demands through 2040. The UWMP also indicates that with a groundwater supply augmented by groundwater recharging of exchanged surface water, it is not anticipated that a single or multiple dry year period will critically reduce the availability of water supply to the city. Anticipated groundwater supplies are sufficient to meet all demands through the year 2040 even under drought conditions. To continue to utilize groundwater, the UWMP stresses the importance of the City continuing its current efforts towards conservation. Demand reduction actions are described in Chapter 8: Water Shortage Contingency Plan of the UWMP. Each action has a penalty, charge, or other enforcement method to ensure compliance. Adherence to these requirements would ensure impacts would be less than significant.

Furthermore, as discussed under Section 4.10, adherence to connection requirements and recommendations pursuant to the City’s conservation efforts (e.g., compliance with California Plumbing Code, efficient appliances, efficient landscaping, etc.) should not negatively impact water supply or impede water management. In particular, the proposed Project would be required to be built accordance with all mandatory outdoor water use requirements

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 131 as outlined in the applicable California Green Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 11, Section 4.304 – Outdoor Water Use and verified through the building permit process. As a residential development that would contain landscaping pursuant to SMC regulations, future development shall comply with the updated Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) (California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Chapter 2.7, Division 2), as implemented and enforced through the building permit process. Therefore, through compliance, the potential for the Project to substantially decrease groundwater supplies is limited and impacts would be less than significant.

Overall, based on the information collected from the UWMP, the Project would not generate significantly greater water demand that would substantially decrease groundwater supplies. Additionally, adherence to connection requirements and recommendations pursuant to water conservation efforts as well as compliance with applicable California Green Building Standards Code and MWELO would reduce water demand and reduce the potential for the Project to substantially decrease water supply available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years. For these reasons, the Project would have a less than significant impact.
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?
Less than Significant Impact. According to the 2020 UWMP, the City owns and operates a citywide wastewater collection and treatment system. The City’s existing sewer collection system consists of 2,728 manholes, 24 lift stations, 9,880 feet of force mains, and 48.4 miles of gravity sewer pipes. The City owns and operates the existing wastewater treatment facility (WWTF) under the current Waste Discharge Requirements (WDRs) Order No. R5- 2008-304. The WWTF is located on the corner of N. Prospect Street and W. Morton Avenue near Veterans Park.

The WWTF was originally designed with a hydraulic capacity of approximately 1.8 mgd. It was upgraded to 4.0 mgd in 1978 and again in 1994 to 8.0 mgd. The City’s Waste Discharge Requirements Order restricts the monthly average daily discharge to 5.3 mgd. According to the City’s 2020 UWMP the City contributed a total of 1,712 MG (4.69 mgd) of wastewater flow into the WWTF.

Sanitary sewer service would be provided to the site by the City through connections on Morton Avenue, Henry Street, or Leggett Street. If wastewater generation accounts for approximately 100 percent of water use, maximum buildout of the Project Site would result in an estimated wastewater generation of approximately 18,657 gpd. This would account for less than one percent of the WWTF capacity. Therefore, the wastewater treatment plant would have the capacity to meet the wastewater generated from maximum buildout of the site and the Project’s impacts on wastewater facilities would be less than significant. In summary, maximum buildout of the Project site is anticipated to generate additional wastewater beyond existing conditions. However, the estimated generation would be within the capacity of the WWTF. Impacts would be less than significant. 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 Porterville 2030 General Plan Public Utilities Element contains Guiding Policy PUG-5 which requires the City to achieve and maintain the State’s solid waste management goals. Solid waste services are subject to the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939), which requires each jurisdiction

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 132 in California to divert at least 50% of its waste stream away from landfills either through waste reduction, recycling, or other means.

The City of Porterville provides solid waste, recycling, and composting services. The City disposes solid waste at the Teapot Dome Landfill (SWIS Number 55-AA-0004). This landfill is permitted to receive a maximum of 600 tons per day and has a remaining capacity of 998,468 cubic yards, with an estimated closure date that lapsed in 2004. As of 2022, Teapot Dome was no longer taking non-refuse disposal, nor is it open to the public. Once Teapot Dome reaches capacity, waste will be diverted to Woodville Landfill (SWIS Number 54-AA-0008). Woodville Landfill is permitted to receive a maximum of 1,078 tons per day and has a remaining capacity of 7,093,145 cubic yards and is expected to cease operations in 2043.
41 Construction
CALGreen mandates locally permitted new residential building construction and demolition to recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum 65% of the nonhazardous construction and demolition debris generated during the Project. Further, the recycling of construction and demolition materials is required for any City-issued building or demolition permit that generates at least eight cubic yards of material by volume. Therefore, the Project would be required to implement techniques to reduce and recycle waste during construction activities in accordance with mandatory requirements under CALGreen as implemented through the building permit process. Compliance would be ensured through the building permit process. Therefore, through compliance, solid waste generated through construction activities is not anticipated to generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, in excess of the capacity of the local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals.

Therefore, the Project would have a less than significant impact.

Operations
The Project is anticipated to generate approximately 157 tons of solid waste per year as estimated by CalEEMod (Appendix A). The estimation accounts for compliance with AB 939. Solid waste generated through Project operations would account for less than 0.1 percent of the daily permitted throughput capacity of the landfill. As such, Project operations are not anticipated to generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, in excess of the capacity of the local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals.

Therefore, the Project would have a less than significant impact. e) Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
Less than Significant Impact. As described under criterion d), Project construction and operational activities that generate solid waste would be handled, transported, and disposed of in accordance with AB 939 and CALGreen regulations related to solid waste. Compliance would be ensured through the building permit process. Therefore, through compliance, the Project would comply with laws and regulations that would ensure impacts related to solid waste are reduced to less than significant levels.
41 California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (2023). “SWIS Facility/Site Search.” Accessed on October 24, 2024, https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/SolidWaste/Site/Search

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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 133

4.19.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 134

4.20 WILDFIRE
If located in or near state responsibility or
lands classified as very high fire hazard
severity zones, Would the Project:

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?
X
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?
X
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?
X
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?
X

4.20.1 Environmental Setting
According to the General Plan EIR, the center portion of Porterville is highly urbanized and is less susceptible to wildland fires. The risk of wildland fires increases in the grasslands and other vegetation cover outside of the City’s urban core. The area located in the northeast portion of the City’s Planning Area near Lake Success is considered to have a high to very high risk of fire since it is heavily vegetated. The Project Site is not located in or near state responsibility or lands classified as moderate, high, or very high fire hazard severity zones as identified by CAL FIRE. 42 Rather, the Project Site is within an “area of local responsibility” and in an area of low fire risk. As an area of local responsibility, the Porterville Fire Department is responsible for providing fire protection services (See Section

4.15).

4.20.2 Impact Assessment
If located in or near state responsibility or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, Would the Project:
42 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer. Accessed on October 25, 2024, https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/03beab8511814e79a0e4eabf0d3e7247/

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 135 a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? No Impact. The Project would not impair access to the existing roadway network. Construction may require lane closure; however, these activities would be short-term and access would be maintained through standard traffic control. Following construction, these roadways would continue to provide access to the site. Safe and convenient vehicular and pedestrian circulation would be provided in addition to adequate access for emergency vehicles. To determine and ensure adequate vehicular and pedestrian circulation and emergency vehicle access, the Project has been reviewed and conditioned by the City for compliance with applicable code and regulations including applicable emergency response and evacuation plans. Therefore, the Project would not substantially impair any emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan, and no impact 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. The Project Site is located on a relatively flat property with minimal slope and is not in an area that is subject to strong prevailing winds or other factors that would exacerbate wildfire risks. The site is highly disturbed and is not located within a wildland (i.e., wild, uncultivated, and uninhabited land), which precludes the risk of wildfire. Further, the Project Site is within an “area of local responsibility” and is not identified by Cal Fire to be in a fire hazard severity zone (FHSZ). For these reasons, no impact would occur as a result of this Project. 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 Project Site would be annexed to City limits; therefore, all existing and proposed infrastructure such as roads and utilities would be required to be maintained accordingly. As previously discussed, all proposed Project components (including utilities, roadways, buildings, and landscaping) would be located within the boundaries of the Project Site and have been reviewed and/or conditioned by the City for compliance with applicable codes and regulations. Through compliance, such infrastructure would not exacerbate fire risk or result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment and 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? No Impact. The City, inclusive of the Project Site, is not located in or near state responsibility or lands classified as fire hazard severity zones. The topography of the Project Site is relatively flat with stable, native soils, and the site is not in the immediate vicinity of rivers or creeks that would be more susceptible to landslides. Therefore, no impact would occur.

4.20.3 Mitigation Measures
None required.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 136

4.21 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
Would the Project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less than
Significant with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Does the Project have the potential to
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, 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?
X
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)?
X
c) Does the Project have environmental
effects which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings,
either directly or indirectly?
X

4.21.1 Impact Assessment
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 an endangered, rare, or threatened species, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory?
Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. The analyses of environmental issues contained in this Initial Study indicate that the Project is not expected to have substantial impact on the environment or on any resources identified in the Initial Study. Standard requirements that will be implemented through the entitlement process and the attached mitigation monitoring and reporting program have been incorporated in the project to

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 137 reduce all potentially significant impacts to less than significant, including Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2, CUL1, CUL-2, GEO-1, GEO-2, HAZ-1, HAZ-2, HAZ-3, and HAZ-4. Therefore, the Project would have a less than significant impact 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 with Mitigation Incorporated. CEQA Guidelines Section 15064(i) states that a Lead Agency shall consider whether the cumulative impact of a project is significant and whether the effects of the project are cumulatively considerable. The assessment of the significance of the cumulative effects of a project must, therefore, be conducted in connection with the effects of past projects, other current projects, and probable future projects. Due to the nature of the Project and consistency with environmental policies, incremental contributions to impacts are considered less than cumulatively considerable. Standard requirements that will be implemented through the entitlement process and the attached mitigation monitoring and reporting program have been incorporated in the project to reduce all potentially significant impacts to less than significant, including Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2, CUL-1, CUL-2, GEO-1, GEO-2, HAZ-1, HAZ-2, HAZ-3, and HAZ-4. The Projectwould not contribute substantially to adverse cumulative conditions, or create any substantial indirect impacts (i.e., increase in population could lead to an increased need for housing, increase in traffic, air pollutants, etc.). As such, Project impacts are not considered to be cumulatively considerable given the insignificance of project induced impacts. The impact is therefore less than significant with mitigation incorporated. c) Does the Project have environmental effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated. The analyses of environmental issues contained in this Initial Study indicate that the project is not expected to have substantial impact on human beings, either directly or indirectly. Standard requirements that will be implemented through the entitlement process and the attached mitigation monitoring and reporting program have been incorporated in the project to reduce all potentially significant impacts to less than significant, including Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2, CUL-1, CUL-2, GEO-1, GEO2, HAZ-1, HAZ-2, HAZ-3, and HAZ-4. Therefore, the Project would have a less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 138 5 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM

MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM FOR DELLA FARMS RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION November 2024
This mitigation measure monitoring and reporting checklist was prepared pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15097 and Section 21081.6 of the Public Resources Code (PRC). The timing of implementing each mitigation measure is identified in in the checklist, as well as identifies the entity responsible for verifying that the mitigation measures applied to a Project are performed. Project applicants are responsible for providing evidence that mitigation measures are implemented. As lead agency, the City of Porterville is responsible for verifying that mitigation is performed/completed.

Mitigation Measures Timing of
Verification
Responsible for
Verification
Verification of
Completion
Date Initials
Biological Resources
Mitigation Measure BIO-1: If Project activities must occur during the nesting season (February 1 to September 15), pre-activity nesting bird surveys shall be conducted within seven (7) days prior to the start of construction on the construction site and a 500-foot buffer for raptors.

2. If active nests are found during the survey or at any time during construction of the Project, an avoidance buffer ranging from 50 feet to 500 feet may be required, with the avoidance buffer from any specific nest being determined by a qualified biologist. The avoidance buffer will remain in place until the biologist has determined that the young are no longer reliant on adults or the nest. Work may occur within the avoidance buffer under the approval and guidance of the biologist, but full-time monitoring may be required. The biologist shall Prior to
construction
City of Porterville
Building Division

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 139 have the ability to stop construction if nesting adults show any sign of distress.

Mitigation Measure BIO-2: A qualified biologist knowledgeable of the species should conduct a Swainson’s hawk survey of the Project Site and the surrounding 0.5-mile-radius area, in substantial compliance with the “Recommended Timing and Methodology for Swainson’s Hawk Nesting Surveys in California’s Central Valley” (Swainson’s Hawk Technical Advisory Committee 2000) during the normal bird breeding season (1 February through 15 September) prior to the start of any initial ground-disturbing activity or construction associated with each phase of project implementation, to the extent feasible.

Additional pre-construction Swainson’s hawk surveys should take place no more than 10 days prior to the start of ground-disturbing activities.

To mitigate for the loss of Swainson’s hawk foraging habitat, the project applicant should provide Habitat Management (HM) lands to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) based on the following ratios, if feasible:
▪ If the project(s) is located within 1 mile of an active nest tree, the applicant should provide a minimum of 1 acre of HM lands for each 1 acre of urban development authorized.
▪ If the project(s) is located within 5 miles of an active nest tree but greater than 1 mile from the nest tree, the applicant should provide a minimum of 0.75 acres of HM lands for each 1 acre of urban development authorized.
▪ If the project(s) is located within 10 miles of an active nest tree but greater than 5 miles from the nest tree, the applicant should provide a Prior to any ground
disturbance or
construction
activity
City of Porterville
Building Division

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 140 minimum of 0.5 acres of HM lands for each 1 acre of urban development authorized.

The evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in architectural history or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive-level evaluation in accordance with the guidelines and best practices promulgated by the State Office of Historic Preservation to identify any potential historical resources within the proposed project area. All properties 45 years of age or older shall be evaluated within their historic context and documented in a report meeting the State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines. All evaluated properties shall be documented on Department of Parks and Prior to Approval of
a Construction
Permit
City of Porterville
Building Division

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 141 Recreation Series 523 Forms. The report shall be submitted to the City for review and concurrence.

Site-specific mitigation measures shall be established and undertaken, including, but not limited to, documentation of the historical resource in the form of a Historic American Buildings Survey-Like report. The report shall be commissioned by the project applicant or their consultant to comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Architectural and Engineering Documentation and shall generally follow the Historic American Buildings Survey Level III requirements, including digital photographic recordation, detailed historic narrative report, and compilation of historic research. The documentation shall be completed by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the PQS and submitted to the City prior to issuance of any permits for demolition or alteration of the historical resource.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 142 Mitigation Measure CUL-2: In order to avoid the potential for impacts to historic and prehistoric archaeological resources, the following measures shall be implemented, as necessary, in conjunction with the construction of each phase of the Project:
a. Cultural Resources Alert on Project Plans. The Project proponent shall note on any plans that require ground disturbing excavation that there is a potential for exposing buried cultural resources.
b. Stop Work Near any Discovered Cultural Resources. Should previously unidentified cultural resources be discovered during construction of the Project, the Project proponent shall cease work within 50 feet of the resources, and City of Porterville shall be notified immediately. The Project archaeologist meeting the Secretary of the Interior Professional Qualifications Standards for archeology shall immediately to evaluate the find pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.2. c. Mitigation for Discovered Cultural Resources. If the professional archaeologist determines that any cultural resources exposed during construction constitute a historical resource and/or unique archaeological resource, he/she shall notify the Project proponent and other appropriate parties of the evaluation and recommended mitigation measures to mitigate the impact to a less-than-significant level. If the archaeologist and, if applicable, a Native American monitor or other interested tribal representative determine it is appropriate, cultural materials collected from the site shall be processed and analyzed in a laboratory according to standard archaeological procedures. The age of the materials shall be determined using radiocarbon dating and/or other appropriate procedures; lithic artifacts, faunal remains, and other cultural materials shall be identified and analyzed according to current professional standards. The significance of the site(s) shall be evaluated according to the criteria of the California Register Prior to issuance of
a construction
permit
City of Porterville
Building Division

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 143 of Historical Resources (CRHR) and if applicable, National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The results of the investigations shall be presented in a technical report following the standards of the California Office of Historic Preservation publication “Archaeological Resource Management Reports:

Treatment of any significant cultural resources shall be undertaken with the approval of the City of Porterville. The archaeologist shall document the resources using DPR 523 forms and file said forms with the California Historical Resources Information System, Southern San Joaquin Valley Information Center (SSJVIC). The resources shall be photo documented and collected by the archaeologist for submittal to the City of Porterville. The archaeologist shall be required to submit to the City of Porterville for review and approval a report of the findings and method of curation or protection of the resources. This report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC after completion. Recommendations contained therein shall be implemented throughout the remainder of ground disturbance activities. Further grading or site work within the area of discovery shall not be allowed until the preceding steps have been taken.
d. Data Recovery. Should the results of item c. yield resources that meet CRHR significance standards and if the resource cannot be avoided by Project construction, the Project applicant shall ensure that all feasible recommendations for mitigation of archaeological impacts are incorporated into the final design and approved by the City prior to construction. Any necessary data recovery excavation, conducted to exhaust the data potential of significant archaeological sites, shall be carried out by a qualified archaeologist meeting the SOI’s PQS for archeology. Data recovery shall be conducted in accordance with a research design reviewed and approved by

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 144 the City, prepared in advance of fieldwork, and using the appropriate archaeological field and laboratory methods consistent with the California Office of Historic Preservation Planning Bulletin 5, Guidelines for Archaeological Research Design, or the latest edition thereof. If the archaeological resource(s) of concern are Native American in origin, the qualified archaeologist shall confer with the City and local California Native American tribe(s). As applicable, the final Data Recovery reports shall be submitted to the City prior to issuance of any grading or construction permit.

Recommendations contained therein shall be implemented throughout all ground disturbance activities. Recommendations may include, but would not be limited to, Cultural Resources Monitoring, and/or measures for unanticipated discoveries. The final report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC upon completion.
e. Disposition of Cultural Resources. Upon coordination with the City of Porterville, any pre-historic archaeological artifacts recovered shall be donated to an appropriate Tribal custodian or a qualified scientific institution where they would be afforded applicable cultural resources laws and guidelines.
f. Cultural Resources Monitoring. If mitigation measures are recommended by reports written under item c. or d., the Project applicant shall retain a qualified archaeologist to monitor Project-related, ground-disturbing activities which may include the following but not limited to: grubbing, vegetation removal, trenching, grading, and/or excavations. The archaeological monitor shall coordinate with any Native American monitor as required. Monitoring logs must be completed by the archaeologist daily.

Cultural resources monitoring may be reduced for the Project if the qualified archaeologist finds it appropriate to reduce the monitoring efforts. Upon completion of ground disturbance for the Project, a final report must be submitted to the City for review and approval documenting the monitoring

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 145 efforts, cultural resources find, and resource disposition. The final report shall be submitted to the SSJVIC.

Geology and Soils
Mitigation Measure GEO-1: Subsequent to a preliminary City review of the project grading plans, a soils report, inclusive of information on expansive soils, shall be conducted. The following procedures shall be followed:
• If expansive soils are not found, excavation and/or construction activities can commence.If there is evidence that the Project Site includes expansive soils, foundations for buildings and structures founded on expansive soils shall be designed in accordance with IBC Section 1808.6.1 or 1808.6.2 unless 1) the expansive soil is removed in accordance with Section 1808.6.3 or 2) the building official approves stabilization of the soil in accordance with Section 1808.6.4.

Prior to ground
disturbance
activities
City of Porterville
Building Division
Mitigation Measure GEO-2:If any paleontological resources are encountered during ground-disturbance activities, all work within 25 feet of the find shall halt until a qualified paleontologist as defined by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology Standard Procedures for the Assessment and Mitigation of Adverse Impacts to Paleontological Resources (2010), can evaluate the find and make recommendations regarding treatment. Paleontological resource materials may include resources such as fossils, plant impressions, or animal tracks preserved in rock. The qualified paleontologist shall contact the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County or another appropriate facility regarding any discoveries of paleontological resources.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 146 implementation. If avoidance is not feasible, the paleontological resources shall be evaluated for their significance. If the resources are not significant, avoidance is not necessary. If the resources are significant, they shall be avoided to ensure no adverse effects or such effects must be mitigated.

Construction in that area shall not resume until the resource-appropriate measures are recommended or the materials are determined to be less than significant. If the resource is significant and fossil recovery is the identified form of treatment, then the fossil shall be deposited in an accredited and permanent scientific institution. Copies of all correspondence and reports shall be submitted to the City of Porterville.

Hazards and Hazardous Material
Mitigation Measure HAZ-1: Asbestos Survey. Prior to the demolition or renovation of any existing structure on site, an Asbestos Survey shall be conducted to determine the quantity of asbestos-containing construction material to be removed in the Project. As regulated by National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), the inspection must be conducted by a Cal-OSHA Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC). The Asbestos Survey report shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Building Division for review and approval. Alternatively, if the developer is opting to treat all of the material as RACM and will notify as such, the survey may be bypassed.

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 147 and/or the public to asbestos-containing materials shall be conducted in accordance with the applicable regulations, including, but not limited to:
• San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District
• California Health and Safety Code (Section 39650 et seq.) • California Code of Regulations (Title 8, Section 1529) • California Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations (California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 1529 [Asbestos] and Section 1532.1 [Lead])
• Code of Federal Regulations (Title 40, Part 61 [asbestos], Title 40, Part 763 [asbestos], and Title 29, Part 1926 [asbestos and lead]) Mitigation Measure HAZ-2: Lead-Based Paint Inspection. Prior to the demolition of any existing structure on site, a lead-based paint inspection is required to determine whether the lead-based paint is present in or on the original building materials. The inspection shall be conducted on-site by a state-certified Lead Inspector or Assessor in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 1532.1. The investigation report shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Building Division for review and approval.

If it is determined that lead-based paint exists on site, the developer shall utilize professionals for lead-based paint removal to reduce potential health risks to construction workers and/or the public. Pursuant Section 1532.1, construction workers must establish and implement a compliance program, and provide a written Pre-Job Notification to the nearest Division of Occupational Safety and Health Cal/OSHA office 24 hours before the start of a project.

Prior to demolition
of structures on
site
City of Porterville
Building Division
Mitigation Measure HAZ-3: Test for Agricultural Pesticides. Prior to construction activities onsite, a limited Phase II investigation shall be conducted to assess the surface soil of the Project ite for residual Prior to ground
disturbing activities
City of Porterville
Building Division

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 148 organochlorine and lead arsenate pesticides. The Phase II investigation shall be conducted in accordance with guidelines developed by the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for site assessments. The Phase II investigation shall estimate the potential threat to public health and the environment if concentrations of pesticides are encountered using methods outlined in DTSC’s Preliminary Endangerment Assessment Guidance Manual and DTSC’s Screening Level Human Health Risk Assessment guidance for implementing screening level risk analysis. The Phase II investigation shall be submitted to the City of Porterville Building Division for review and approval by an independent thirdparty reviewer. If the Phase II testing reveals concentrations of organochlorine pesticides and lead arsenic above health-based screening levels for residential exposure, remediation of the site shall be required to address residual organochlorine and lead arsenate pesticides above healthbased level of concern. Remediation may include excavation and disposal of impacted soil or capping elevated areas beneath paved areas. The Construction Contractor shall implement the recommendations outlined in the Phase II.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-4:Halt Construction if Previously Unknown Potential Hazards are Encountered. All surface or subsurface construction activities shall immediately cease in the event that previously unknown potentially hazardous materials are encountered. Construction Contractors shall follow all applicable local, state, and federal regulations regarding discovery, response, disposal, removal, and remediation for hazardous materials encountered during the construction process.

During ground
disturbance
activities
City of Porterville
Building Division
Transportation
Mitigation Measure TRA-1: The project developer shall, as a condition of approval of the project, provide pedestrian improvements along Morton Prior to issuance of
certificate of
occupancy
City of Porterville
Building Division

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 149 Avenue, Henry Street, and Leggett Street with a minimum total construction cost of $30,160.

Tribal Cultural Resources
See Cultural Resources

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 150 6 REPORT PREPARATION
Names of Persons Who Prepared or Participated in the Initial Study:

Lead Agency
Lead Agency
City of Porterville
Community Development
Department
(559) 782-7460
Caludia Calderon, Community
Development Director
Initial Study Consultant
Initial Study
Precision Civil Engineering
1234 O Street
Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 449-4500
Bonique Emerson, AICP, VP of Planning
Jenna Chilingerian, AICP, Senior Planner
Shin Tu, AICP, Senior Associate Planner
Isaiah Medina, Assistant Planner
Sonia Ho, Assistant Planner
Technical Studies
Biological Resource
Assessment
Argonaut Ecological Consulting,
Inc.
2377 Gold Meadow Way, Ste 100
Gold River, CA 95670
(916) 803-1454
Phase I ESA Krazan & Associates, Inc.
215 West Dakota Avenue
Clovis, CA 93612
(559) 348-2200

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 151 7 APPENDICES

7.1 Appendix A: CalEEMod Results
Prepared by Precision Civil Engineering, Inc. dated October 18, 2024.

Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report, 10/18/2024 1 / 7
Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report
Table of Contents

1. Basic Project Information

1.1. Basic Project Information

1.2. Land Use Types

1.3. User-Selected Emission Reduction Measures by Emissions Sector

2. Emissions Summary

2.2. Construction Emissions by Year, Unmitigated

2.5. Operations Emissions by Sector, Unmitigated

5. Activity Data

5.9. Operational Mobile Sources

5.9.1. Unmitigated

5.11. Operational Energy Consumption

5.11.1. Unmitigated

5.12. Operational Water and Wastewater Consumption

5.12.1. Unmitigated

5.13. Operational Waste Generation
Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report, 10/18/2024 2 / 7

5.13.1. Unmitigated
Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report, 10/18/2024 3 / 7

1. Basic Project Information

1.1. Basic Project Information
Data Field Value
Project Name Della Farms Residential Subdivision
Construction Start Date 1/1/2025
Operational Year 2028
Lead Agency —
Land Use Scale Project/site
Analysis Level for Defaults County
Windspeed (m/s) 2.80
Precipitation (days) 23.4
Location 37.34627496750879, -120.62178471055475
County Merced
City Atwater
Air District San Joaquin Valley APCD
Air Basin San Joaquin Valley
TAZ 2330
EDFZ 14
Electric Utility Merced Irrigation District
Gas Utility Pacific Gas & Electric
App Version 2022.1.1.28

1.2. Land Use Types
Land Use Subtype Size Unit Lot Acreage Building Area (sq ft) Landscape Area (sq ft)
Special Landscape
Area (sq ft)
Population Description
Single Family
Housing
160 Dwelling Unit 25.5 312,000 38,325 — 541 —
Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report, 10/18/2024 4 / 7

1.3. User-Selected Emission Reduction Measures by Emissions Sector No measures selected

2. Emissions Summary

2.2. Construction Emissions by Year, Unmitigated
Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Year TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Daily -
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
2025 3.80 3.20 29.7 28.3 0.06 1.23 9.20 10.4 1.14 3.65 4.79 — 6,599 6,599 0.27 0.10 3.17 6,622 2026 1.63 1.39 10.6 16.5 0.03 0.38 0.56 0.95 0.35 0.14 0.49 — 3,314 3,314 0.13 0.10 2.93 3,350 2027 56.0 56.0 0.86 1.74 < 0.005 0.02 0.09 0.11 0.02 0.02 0.04 — 227 227 0.01 < 0.005 0.33 229 Daily -
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
2025 3.94 3.31 31.6 30.2 0.06 1.37 19.7 21.0 1.26 10.1 11.4 — 6,599 6,599 0.27 0.10 0.08 6,622 2026 1.58 1.34 10.7 15.7 0.03 0.38 0.56 0.95 0.35 0.14 0.49 — 3,263 3,263 0.13 0.10 0.08 3,296 2027 56.0 56.0 10.2 15.5 0.03 0.34 0.56 0.90 0.32 0.14 0.45 — 3,243 3,243 0.12 0.10 0.07 3,276 Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
2025 1.67 1.42 12.3 14.0 0.02 0.50 2.46 2.96 0.46 1.06 1.52 — 2,861 2,861 0.11 0.06 0.62 2,882 2026 1.14 0.96 7.61 11.3 0.02 0.27 0.39 0.67 0.25 0.10 0.35 — 2,340 2,340 0.09 0.07 0.90 2,365 2027 5.52 5.49 1.21 1.81 < 0.005 0.05 0.03 0.08 0.04 0.01 0.05 — 312 312 0.01 0.01 0.07 315 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
2025 0.31 0.26 2.24 2.56 < 0.005 0.09 0.45 0.54 0.08 0.19 0.28 — 474 474 0.02 0.01 0.10 477 2026 0.21 0.18 1.39 2.06 < 0.005 0.05 0.07 0.12 0.05 0.02 0.06 — 387 387 0.02 0.01 0.15 391 2027 1.01 1.00 0.22 0.33 < 0.005 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 < 0.005 0.01 — 51.7 51.7 < 0.005 < 0.005 0.01 52.1 Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report, 10/18/2024 5 / 7

2.5. Operations Emissions by Sector, Unmitigated
Criteria Pollutants (lb/day for daily, ton/yr for annual) and GHGs (lb/day for daily, MT/yr for annual) Sector TOG ROG NOx CO SO2 PM10E PM10D PM10T PM2.5E PM2.5D PM2.5T BCO2 NBCO2 CO2T CH4 N2O R CO2e Daily,
Summer
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Mobile 6.60 6.12 8.31 54.1 0.14 0.13 11.2 11.4 0.13 2.86 2.99 — 14,225 14,225 0.47 0.84 44.0 14,531 Area 16.2 12.1 2.00 45.8 0.13 5.27 — 5.27 5.07 — 5.07 870 1,709 2,578 4.10 < 0.005 — 2,682 Energy 0.14 0.07 1.18 0.50 0.01 0.10 — 0.10 0.10 — 0.10 — 3,185 3,185 0.26 0.02 — 3,197 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 13.0 29.0 42.1 1.34 0.03 — 85.1 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 84.9 0.00 84.9 8.48 0.00 — 297 Refrig. — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 2.23 2.23
Total 23.0 18.2 11.5 100 0.27 5.49 11.2 16.7 5.29 2.86 8.16 967 19,148 20,116 14.6 0.89 46.2 20,794 Daily,
Winter
(Max)
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Mobile 6.04 5.54 9.36 45.0 0.13 0.13 11.2 11.4 0.13 2.86 2.99 — 13,221 13,221 0.53 0.88 1.14 13,499 Area 15.4 11.3 1.92 36.7 0.13 5.26 — 5.26 5.07 — 5.07 870 1,684 2,554 4.10 < 0.005 — 2,657 Energy 0.14 0.07 1.18 0.50 0.01 0.10 — 0.10 0.10 — 0.10 — 3,185 3,185 0.26 0.02 — 3,197 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 13.0 29.0 42.1 1.34 0.03 — 85.1 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 84.9 0.00 84.9 8.48 0.00 — 297 Refrig. — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 2.23 2.23
Total 21.6 16.9 12.4 82.1 0.26 5.49 11.2 16.7 5.29 2.86 8.16 967 18,120 19,088 14.7 0.94 3.37 19,737 Average
Daily
— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Mobile 5.95 5.47 8.69 44.6 0.13 0.13 10.8 11.0 0.12 2.76 2.88 — 13,180 13,180 0.49 0.84 18.6 13,461 Area 9.47 8.51 0.47 12.7 0.03 1.18 — 1.18 1.14 — 1.14 195 390 586 0.92 < 0.005 — 609 Energy 0.14 0.07 1.18 0.50 0.01 0.10 — 0.10 0.10 — 0.10 — 3,185 3,185 0.26 0.02 — 3,197 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 13.0 29.0 42.1 1.34 0.03 — 85.1 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 84.9 0.00 84.9 8.48 0.00 — 297 Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report, 10/18/2024 6 / 7
Refrig. — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 2.23 2.23
Total 15.6 14.0 10.3 57.8 0.16 1.41 10.8 12.2 1.36 2.76 4.12 293 16,785 17,078 11.5 0.89 20.8 17,652 Annual — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —
Mobile 1.09 1.00 1.59 8.14 0.02 0.02 1.98 2.00 0.02 0.50 0.53 — 2,182 2,182 0.08 0.14 3.07 2,229 Area 1.73 1.55 0.09 2.32 0.01 0.22 — 0.22 0.21 — 0.21 32.3 64.6 97.0 0.15 < 0.005 — 101 Energy 0.03 0.01 0.21 0.09 < 0.005 0.02 — 0.02 0.02 — 0.02 — 527 527 0.04 < 0.005 — 529 Water — — — — — — — — — — — 2.16 4.81 6.97 0.22 0.01 — 14.1 Waste — — — — — — — — — — — 14.0 0.00 14.0 1.40 0.00 — 49.1 Refrig. — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 0.37 0.37
Total 2.84 2.56 1.89 10.6 0.03 0.26 1.98 2.23 0.25 0.50 0.75 48.6 2,779 2,828 1.90 0.15 3.44 2,922

5. Activity Data

5.9. Operational Mobile Sources

5.9.1. Unmitigated
Land Use Type Trips/Weekday Trips/Saturday Trips/Sunday Trips/Year VMT/Weekday VMT/Saturday VMT/Sunday VMT/Year Single Family
Housing
1,510 1,526 1,368 544,705 15,532 15,696 14,067 5,601,284

5.11. Operational Energy Consumption

5.11.1. Unmitigated
Electricity (kWh/yr) and CO2 and CH4 and N2O and Natural Gas (kBTU/yr) Land Use Electricity (kWh/yr) CO2 CH4 N2O Natural Gas (kBTU/yr) Single Family Housing 1,364,113 453 0.0330 0.0040 4,654,404

5.12. Operational Water and Wastewater Consumption
Della Farms Residential Subdivision Custom Report, 10/18/2024 7 / 7

5.12.1. Unmitigated
Land Use Indoor Water (gal/year) Outdoor Water (gal/year) Single Family Housing 6,810,024 675,781

5.13. Operational Waste Generation

5.13.1. Unmitigated
Land Use Waste (ton/year) Cogeneration (kWh/year)
Single Family Housing 157 —

INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 152

7.2 Appendix B: CNDDB Occurrence Report
Prepared by Precision Civil Engineering, Inc. dated October 11, 2024.

Gymnogyps californianus
California condor
Element Code: ABNKA03010
Federal:

State:

Endangered
Endangered
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G1
S2
Other: CDF_S-Sensitive, CDFW_FP-Fully Protected, IUCN_CR-Critically Endangered General: REQUIRE VAST EXPANSES OF OPEN SAVANNAH, GRASSLANDS, AND FOOTHILL CHAPARRAL IN MOUNTAIN RANGES OF MODERATE ALTITUDE.

Micro: DEEP CANYONS CONTAINING CLEFTS IN THE ROCKY WALLS PROVIDE NESTING SITES. FORAGES UP TO 100 MILES FROM ROOST/NEST.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 5 Map Index: 00136 EO Index: 14754 Element Last Seen: 1976-09-17 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1976-09-17
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1989-08-10
Globe (3611817), Success Dam (3611818), Springville (3611827), Frazier Valley (3611828), Dennison Peak (3611837), Chickencoop Canyon (3611838), Kaweah (3611848)
Quad Summary:

County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.24720 / -118.88806
UTM: Zone-11 N4013020 E330356
PLSS: T19S, R28E, Sec. 25, SE (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 1000
Acres: 124200.5
Location: BLUE RIDGE CONDOR AREA.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: ROOSTING AREA, APRIL THROUGH SEPTEMBER.

Owner/Manager: BLM, PVT
Query Criteria: Quad<span style='color:Red'> IS </span>(Porterville (3611911)<span style='color:Red'> OR </span>Success Dam (3611818)) Report Printed on Friday, October 11, 2024
Commercial Version -- Dated September, 29 2024 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 1 of 33 Information Expires 3/29/2025
Multiple Occurrences per Page
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
Buteo swainsoni
Swainson's hawk
Element Code: ABNKC19070
Federal:

State:

None
Threatened
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G5
S4
Other: BLM_S-Sensitive, IUCN_LC-Least Concern
General: BREEDS IN GRASSLANDS WITH SCATTERED TREES, JUNIPER-SAGE FLATS, RIPARIAN AREAS, SAVANNAHS, AND AGRICULTURAL OR RANCH LANDS WITH GROVES OR LINES OF TREES.

Micro: REQUIRES ADJACENT SUITABLE FORAGING AREAS SUCH AS GRASSLANDS, OR ALFALFA OR GRAIN FIELDS SUPPORTING RODENT POPULATIONS.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 2798 Map Index: B3411 EO Index: 115326 Element Last Seen: 2017-07-09 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 2017-07-09
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2019-07-09
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.08059 / -119.08444
UTM: Zone-11 N3994898 E312313
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 20, SW (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 412
Acres: 5.0
N SIDE OF W HENDERSON ST (AVE 160) JUST W OF FRIANT-KERN CANAL & 0.9 MI NW OF N WESTWOOD ST AT W

MORTON AVE, PORTERVILLE
Location:

Detailed Location: MAPPED TO PROVIDED COORDINATES.

NEST IN CORK OAK ON EDGE OF CANAL, NEAR TULE RIVER, ON THE EDGE OF TOWN. HARVESTED GRAIN FIELD ON EAST BANK OF CANAL.

Ecological:

General: ADULT PAIR & 1 FLEDGLING OBSERVED PERCHING ON UTILITY POLES & VALLEY OAK NEAR NEST ON 9 JUL 2017.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Report Printed on Friday, October 11, 2024
Commercial Version -- Dated September, 29 2024 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 2 of 33 Information Expires 3/29/2025
Multiple Occurrences per Page
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
Agelaius tricolor
tricolored blackbird
Element Code: ABPBXB0020
Federal:

State:

None
Threatened
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G1G2
S2
Other: BLM_S-Sensitive, CDFW_SSC-Species of Special Concern, IUCN_EN-Endangered, USFWS_BCC-Birds of Conservation Concern
General: HIGHLY COLONIAL SPECIES, MOST NUMEROUS IN CENTRAL VALLEY AND VICINITY. LARGELY ENDEMIC TO CALIFORNIA.

Micro: REQUIRES OPEN WATER, PROTECTED NESTING SUBSTRATE, AND FORAGING AREA WITH INSECT PREY WITHIN A FEW KM OF THE COLONY.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 684 Map Index: 97594 EO Index: 98918 Element Last Seen: 1971-05-05 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1971-05-05
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2015-09-22
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.05480 / -118.92480
UTM: Zone-11 N3991741 E326631
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 35 (M)
Accuracy: 3/5 mile
Elevation (ft): 545
Acres: 0.0
VICINITY OF SUCCESS LAKE DAM, ABOUT 0.8 MI NE OF HWY 190 & ROAD 284 INTERSECTION, 5.2 MI ESE OF PORTERVILLE POST OFFICE.

Location:

LOCATION DESCRIBED ONLY AS "SUCCESS DAM, 8 MILES EAST OF PORTERVILLE." MAPPED AS BEST GUESS BY CNDDB TO JUST BELOW SUCCESS LAKE DAM.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

ABOUT 1500 BIRDS OBSERVED ON 5 MAY 1971 (DEHAVEN); BIRDS OBSERVED CARRYING INSECTS TO NESTLINGS IN AN INACCESSIBLE AREA.

General:

Owner/Manager: TUL COUNTY-BARTLETT PARK
Occurrence No. 685 Map Index: 97596 EO Index: 98921 Element Last Seen: 2012-04-20 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 2014-04-19
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2015-12-09
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.09780 / -118.90840
UTM: Zone-11 N3996482 E328202
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 13 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 655
Acres: 0.0
S OF AVENUE 176, ~1.3 MI SE OF RD 288 INTERSECTION, 1.5 MI SW OF HOLDRIDGE DR INTERSECTION, 5.3 MI SW OF SPRINGVILLE PO.

Location:

TRICOLORED BLACKBIRDS MAY HAVE OCCUPIED SEVERAL DIFFERENT LOCATIONS WITHIN CLOSE PROXIMITY. COLONY DATA STORED IN UC DAVIS TRICOLORED BLACKBIRD PORTAL; SITE NAME "LAKE SUCCESS." COORDINATES PROVIDED FOR 2012 OBSERVATION.

Detailed Location:

FORAGE SUBSTRATE WAS GRASSLAND (2005). NESTING IN MILK THISTLE ALONG "HOLBROOKE RD" (2011). MUGWORT, NETTLE, & MUSTARD (2012). SITE COULD BE ACCESSED FROM HOLDRIDGE RD & US ACOE GILL UNIT GATE OR FROM AVE 175 TO RS 292 W/ PERMISSION.

Ecological:

PRESENT 1993. ~12K BIRDS ON 23 APR, 1K BY 3 JUN 2005. ~150 BIRDS ON 25 APR 2008; SINGING, CARRYING NEST MATERIAL. ~300 ON 16 APR 2011; SINGING. ~3K ON 20 APR 2012; COLONY QUIET, INCUBATION INFERRED. 59 OBS ON 19 APR 2014; FLY OVER.

General:

Owner/Manager: DOD-COE
Report Printed on Friday, October 11, 2024
Commercial Version -- Dated September, 29 2024 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 3 of 33 Information Expires 3/29/2025
Multiple Occurrences per Page
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
Corynorhinus townsendii
Townsend's big-eared bat
Element Code: AMACC08010
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G4
S2
Other: BLM_S-Sensitive, CDFW_SSC-Species of Special Concern, IUCN_LC-Least Concern, USFS_S-Sensitive General: THROUGHOUT CALIFORNIA IN A WIDE VARIETY OF HABITATS. MOST COMMON IN MESIC SITES.

Micro: ROOSTS IN THE OPEN, HANGING FROM WALLS AND CEILINGS. ROOSTING SITES LIMITING. EXTREMELY SENSITIVE TO HUMAN DISTURBANCE.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 349 Map Index: 66634 EO Index: 93266 Element Last Seen: 1941-04-04 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1941-04-04
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2014-04-29
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.02702 / -118.91546
UTM: Zone-11 N3988642 E327412
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 11 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 900
Acres: 0.0
Location: ABOUT 2.4 MI SSW OF MINE HILL AND ABOUT 5 MI ESE OF PORTERVILLE.

EXACT LOCATION UNKNOWN. MAPPED APPROXIMATELY TO LOCALITY OF "5 MI ESE OF PORTERVILLE" USING COORDINATES GIVEN IN VERTNET, WITH UNCERTAINTY OF 2011.68 METERS.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: 1 FEMALE COLLECTED ON 4 APR 1941 BY W. RICHARDSON (MVZ #189937).

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 515 Map Index: 92956 EO Index: 94111 Element Last Seen: 1988-07-27 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1988-07-27
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2014-06-30
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.08500 / -118.96380
UTM: Zone-11 N3995161 E323186
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 21 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 1760
Acres: 0.0
Location: ABOUT 4.8 MI NE OF ALL AMERICA CITY HWY AT W POPLAR AVE AND ABOUT 8.7 MI SW OF HATCHET PEAK.

EXACT LOCATION UNKNOWN. GIVEN TRS T19S R27E SEC 7 FOR "PORTERVILLE MINE" POINTS TO ROCKY HILL, BUT LOCATION WAS QUESTIONABLE DUE TO MINES BEING 15.5 MI NNW OF PORTERVILLE. MAPPED TO ROCKY HILL 2-3 MI NE OF PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: 2 BATS OBSERVED ON 27 JUL 1988 IN PORTERVILLE MINE #1 AND #2.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Report Printed on Friday, October 11, 2024
Commercial Version -- Dated September, 29 2024 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 4 of 33 Information Expires 3/29/2025
Multiple Occurrences per Page
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
Antrozous pallidus
pallid bat
Element Code: AMACC10010
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G4
S3
Other: BLM_S-Sensitive, CDFW_SSC-Species of Special Concern, IUCN_LC-Least Concern, USFS_S-Sensitive General: DESERTS, GRASSLANDS, SHRUBLANDS, WOODLANDS AND FORESTS. MOST COMMON IN OPEN, DRY HABITATS WITH ROCKY AREAS FOR ROOSTING.

Micro: ROOSTS MUST PROTECT BATS FROM HIGH TEMPERATURES. VERY SENSITIVE TO DISTURBANCE OF ROOSTING SITES.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 304 Map Index: 66634 EO Index: 66777 Element Last Seen: 1946-07-13 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1946-07-13
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2006-10-05
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.02702 / -118.91546
UTM: Zone-11 N3988642 E327412
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 11 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 900
Acres: 0.0
Location: 5 MI ESE OF PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location: MAPPED ACCORDING TO LAT/LONG COORDINATES GIVEN IN MANIS, WITH UNCERTAINTY OF 2011.68 M.

Ecological:
7 FEMALES AND 1 MALE COLLECTED BY WILLIAM B. RICHARDSON ON 28 & 30 MAR AND 5 APR, 1941, MVZ #189921- 189928. 1 FEMALE AND 1 MALE COLLECTED BY CARL B. KOFORD AND MARY C. RAMAGE ON 13 JUL 1946, MVZ #105205- 105206.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Report Printed on Friday, October 11, 2024
Commercial Version -- Dated September, 29 2024 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 5 of 33 Information Expires 3/29/2025
Multiple Occurrences per Page
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
Eumops perotis californicus
western mastiff bat
Element Code: AMACD02011
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G4G5T4
S3S4
Other: BLM_S-Sensitive, CDFW_SSC-Species of Special Concern General: MANY OPEN, SEMI-ARID TO ARID HABITATS, INCLUDING CONIFER AND DECIDUOUS WOODLANDS, COASTAL SCRUB, GRASSLANDS, CHAPARRAL, ETC.

Micro: ROOSTS IN CREVICES IN CLIFF FACES, HIGH BUILDINGS, TREES AND TUNNELS.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 150 Map Index: 66408 EO Index: 66503 Element Last Seen: 1994-10-11 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1994-10-11
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2006-09-25
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.08216 / -118.91225
UTM: Zone-11 N3994754 E327821
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 23 (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft):

Acres: 2507.0
Location: LAKE SUCCESS.

MAPPED ACCORDING TO LOCALITY DESCRIPTION, AS A LARGE NONSPECIFIC POLYGON AROUND LAKE SUCCESS, BECAUSE LAT/LONG COORDINATES GIVEN IN SOURCE ARE IN SHASTA COUNTY.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: MULTIPLE INDIVIDUALS DETECTED 11 OCT 1994.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Vulpes macrotis mutica
San Joaquin kit fox
Element Code: AMAJA03041
Federal:

State:

Endangered
Threatened
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G4T2
S3
Other:

General: ANNUAL GRASSLANDS OR GRASSY OPEN STAGES WITH SCATTERED SHRUBBY VEGETATION.

Micro: NEED LOOSE-TEXTURED SANDY SOILS FOR BURROWING, AND SUITABLE PREY BASE.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 193 Map Index: 55678 EO Index: 55678 Element Last Seen: 1992-04-21 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1992-04-21
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2004-05-28
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.01926 / -119.10308
UTM: Zone-11 N3988131 E310487
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 18, NW (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft): 400
Acres: 128.8
TULARE CO LANDFILL - TEAPOT DOME. ON AVE 128 (AKA TEAPORT DOME AVE) EAST OF ROAD 208 & WEST OF FRIANTKERN CANAL.Location:

Detailed Location:

Ecological: BARE GROUND; SCATTERED WEEDS. LANDFILL. SURROUNDING AREA IS ORCHARDS AND ROW CROPS.

General: 4/21/1992: FOUR INDIVIDUALS OF UNKNOWN AGE WERE SIGHTED.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Occurrence No. 608 Map Index: 67365 EO Index: 67529 Element Last Seen: 1989-04-09 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 1989-04-09
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2006-12-12
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.02449 / -119.07122
UTM: Zone-11 N3988649 E313370
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 08, SE (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 430
Acres: 0.0
Location: N OF TEAPOT DOME AVE, SW CORNER OF THE PORTERVILLE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT.

Detailed Location: MAPPED IN SE 1/4 OF SE 1/4 OF SECTION 8 ACCORDING TO MAP PROVIDED BY SOURCE.

Ecological: FALLOW FIELD ADJACENT TO WHEAT AND CITRUS FIELDS.

General: FORAGING SITE. 1 ADULT OBSERVED ON 9 APR 1989.

Owner/Manager: CITY OF PORTERVILLE
Occurrence No. 639 Map Index: 67408 EO Index: 67574 Element Last Seen: 1975-07-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1975-07-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2007-01-16
Quad Summary: Fountain Springs (3511888), Ducor (3511981), Success Dam (3611818), Porterville (3611911) County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 35.99978 / -118.99607
UTM: Zone-11 N3985767 E320086
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 19 (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft): 510
Acres: 1979.0
Location: ABOUT 3.1 MILES NE OF TERRA BELLA, NEAR DEER CREEK.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: ROAD KILL OBSERVED IN 1972 AND SIGHTING IN 1973. 3 ROAD KILLS AND 1 SIGHTING FROM 1972 THROUGH JUL 1975.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 641 Map Index: 67410 EO Index: 67578 Element Last Seen: 1973-XX-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1973-XX-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2006-12-13
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.08884 / -119.01691
UTM: Zone-11 N3995686 E318412
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 24 (M)
Accuracy: 3/5 mile
Elevation (ft): 460
Acres: 0.0
Location: JUST N OF PORTERVILLE, IN VICINITY OF SCENIC HEIGHTS.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: ROAD KILL OBSERVED IN 1973.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Occurrence No. 815 Map Index: 67670 EO Index: 67825 Element Last Seen: 1975-07-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1975-07-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2007-01-11
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.03203 / -119.10262
UTM: Zone-11 N3989546 E310558
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 07 (M)
Accuracy: 2/5 mile
Elevation (ft): 400
Acres: 0.0
Location: ABOUT 2.8 MI SE OF POPLAR, BETWEEN ROCKFORD RD AND FRIANT KERN CANAL.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: DEN OBSERVED SOMETIME FROM 1972 THROUGH JUL 1975.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 816 Map Index: 67671 EO Index: 67826 Element Last Seen: 1975-07-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1975-07-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2007-01-11
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.01475 / -119.03046
UTM: Zone-11 N3987491 E317021
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 14 (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft):

Acres: 676.0
Location: ABOUT 5.3 ROAD MI S OF PORTERVILLE ON HWY 65, BETWEEN HESS AVE AND MACOMBER RD.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: ROAD KILL AND DEN OBSERVED SOMETIME FROM 1972 THROUGH JUL 1975.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 901 Map Index: 67778 EO Index: 67930 Element Last Seen: 1975-07-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1975-07-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2007-01-17
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911), Lindsay (3611921)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.12099 / -119.06854
UTM: Zone-11 N3999349 E313839
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 09 (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft): 400
Acres: 418.0
Location: ABOUT 1.9 MI SSW OF STRATHMORE, NEAR INTERSECTION OF WESTWOOD DR AND DAVIS AVE.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: SIGHTING AT DEN FROM 1972 THROUGH JUL 1975.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Taxidea taxus
American badger
Element Code: AMAJF04010
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G5
S3
Other: CDFW_SSC-Species of Special Concern, IUCN_LC-Least Concern General: MOST ABUNDANT IN DRIER OPEN STAGES OF MOST SHRUB, FOREST, AND HERBACEOUS HABITATS, WITH FRIABLE SOILS.

Micro: NEEDS SUFFICIENT FOOD, FRIABLE SOILS AND OPEN, UNCULTIVATED GROUND. PREYS ON BURROWING RODENTS. DIGS BURROWS.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 328 Map Index: 57702 EO Index: 57718 Element Last Seen: XXXX-XX-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: XXXX-XX-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2004-10-26
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.02870 / -119.07082
UTM: Zone-11 N3989116 E313416
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 09 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 430
Acres: 0.0
Location: 4 MI SW PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location: LOCATION MAPPED IN THE VICINITY OF THE PORTERVILLE AIRPORT.

Ecological:

General: 1 COLLECTED, AMNH (AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, NEW YORK).

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Anniella pulchra
Northern California legless lizard
Element Code: ARACC01020
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G3
S2S3
Other: CDFW_SSC-Species of Special Concern, USFS_S-Sensitive General: SANDY OR LOOSE LOAMY SOILS UNDER SPARSE VEGETATION.

Micro: SOIL MOISTURE IS ESSENTIAL. THEY PREFER SOILS WITH A HIGH MOISTURE CONTENT.

Habitat:

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Occurrence No. 108 Map Index: A5267 EO Index: 106990 Element Last Seen: 1940-04-02 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1940-04-02
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2017-07-12
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818), Porterville (3611911) County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.06947 / -119.01629
UTM: Zone-11 N3993536 E318425
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 25 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 460
Acres: 1987.0
Location: PORTERVILLE.

EXACT LOCATION UNKNOWN. MAPPED NON-SPECIFICALLY TO THE CENTER OF THE TOWN OF PORTERVILLE AS DEPICTED ON 1940S TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS. MODERN COLLECTION LOCATIONS ARE KNOWN FROM THE VALLEY ESE OF PORTERVILLE BELOW SUCCESS DAM.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

ONE COLLECTED ON 1 APR 1936 AND ONE COLLECTED ON 2 APR 1940. NEARBY MODERN COLLECTIONS EXPERTLY IDENTIFIED AS A. PULCHRA WITH RESPECT TO NEWLY DESCRIBED ANNIELLA SPECIES.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 109 Map Index: A5270 EO Index: 106992 Element Last Seen: 2017-04-23 Occ. Rank: Excellent Site Last Seen: 2017-04-23
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2022-01-04
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.04675 / -118.97512
UTM: Zone-11 N3990939 E322081
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 5, NW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 500
Acres: 9.0

0.5 MILES SE OF THE INTERSECTION OF EAST POPLAR AVENUE & BLUE HERON PARKWAY, YAUDANCHI ECOLOGICAL RESERVE, PORTERVILLE.

Location:

Detailed Location:

YAUDANCHI ER IS DESCRIBED AS A 161 ACRE RESERVE OF LOW-LYING FLATLANDS AND RIPARIAN HABITAT, PRIMARILY ESTABLISHED TO PROTECT A SIGNIFICANT GREAT BLUE HERON ROOKERY. THE SURROUNDING AREA APPEARS TO BE HOMESTEADS AND ORCHARDS.

Ecological:
2 DETECTED ON 27 MAR 2013. 2 COLLECTED ON 8 MAR 2014, AND 4 COLLECTED IN MAR 2015. 4 COLLECTED ON 23 APR 2017. EXPERTLY IDENTIFIED BY T. PAPENFUSS AS NEWLY DESCRIBED CONCEPT OF A. PULCHRA (SEE PAPENFUSS & PARHAM 2013).

General:

Owner/Manager: DFG-YAUDANCHI ER
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Occurrence No. 110 Map Index: A5273 EO Index: 106996 Element Last Seen: 2002-04-27 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 2002-04-27
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2017-07-12
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.04581 / -118.95231
UTM: Zone-11 N3990793 E324134
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 4, NE (M)
Accuracy: 1/5 mile
Elevation (ft): 520
Acres: 70.0
ABOUT 0.75 MILES WSW OF ROAD 284 AT HWY 190, N OF HWY 190 & S OF CAMPBELL-MORLAND DITCH, 4 MILES ESE OF PORTERVILLE.

Location:

LOCATION STATED AS EAGLE'S NEST RESORT AND MAPPED GENERALLY TO THAT LOCATION; HOWEVER ROAD MILES AND STATED COORDINATES ARE PLUS/MINUS ABOUT 0.25 MILES.

Detailed Location:

EAGLE'S NEST RESORT IS AN RV AND TENT CAMPING CAMPROUND. IT'S UNCLEAR IF THIS WAS COLLECTED ON THE PARCEL IMMEDIATELY EAST WHICH APPEARS TO BE A SAND/GRAVEL MINING OPERATION.

Ecological:

ONE COLLECTED ON 27 APR 2002 AND USED AS A GENETIC REFERENCE FOR NEWLY DESCRIBED ANNIELLA CONCEPTS, SPECIFICALLY A. PULCHRA.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 111 Map Index: A5277 EO Index: 106997 Element Last Seen: 2016-03-23 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 2016-03-23
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2017-07-12
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.05693 / -118.92665
UTM: Zone-11 N3991981 E326471
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 35, SW (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 550
Acres: 5.0

0.3 MI SSW OF SUCCESS DAM SPILLWAY, 0.6 MI NE OF ROAD 284 AT WORTH DR, 5 MI E OF PORTERVILLE, BARTLETT COUNTY PARK.

Location:

ADDRESS OF PARK IS 28801 WORTH DR. LOCATION OF COLLECTION APPEARS TO BE JUST SOUTH OF THE PARK OFFICE NEAR A SERVICE ROAD WHERE BRUSH AND OTHER ITEMS ARE STORED.

Detailed Location:

BARTLETT PARK IS ON THE NW BANK OF TULE RIVER AT THE FOOT OF SUCCESS DAM & APPEARS BE SHADED LAWNS WITH PICNIC FACILITIES. SURROUNDING AREA APPEARS TO BE STEEP GRASSLAND SLOPES, WITH ORCHARDS & SAND/GRAVEL MINING ON THE VALLEY FLOOR.

Ecological:

ONE COLLECTED ON 23 MAR 2016 AND EXPERTLY IDENTIFIED AS A. PULCHRA WITH RESPECT TO NEWLY DESCRIBED SPECIES CONCEPTS.

General:

Owner/Manager: TUL COUNTY-BARTLETT PARK
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Northern Claypan Vernal Pool
Northern Claypan Vernal Pool
Element Code: CTT44120CA
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G1
S1.1
Other:

General:

Micro:

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 8 Map Index: 00019 EO Index: 26435 Element Last Seen: 1980-04-26 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1980-04-26
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1998-07-15
Quad Summary: Fountain Springs (3511888), Ducor (3511981), Success Dam (3611818), Porterville (3611911) County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 35.99744 / -118.98926
UTM: Zone-11 N3985494 E320695
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 19, S (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 510
Acres: 0.0
SOUTH OF PORTERVILLE, ABOUT 3 MILES NE OF TERRA BELLA, NORTH OF DEER CREEK, AND JUST EAST OF RR CROSSING.

Location:

Detailed Location:

HORDEUM GENTICULATUM: 80-100% COVER. LUSH ANNUAL GRASSLAND INVADING POOLS. LASTHENIA ON BLUFFS ALONG DEER CREEK (1980). UNABLE TO CONVERT TO FLORISTIC CLASSIFICATION, LACKS SPP. INFO.

Ecological:

SEE HTTPS://WILDLIFE.CA.GOV/DATA/VEGCAMP/NATURAL-COMMUNITIES TO INTERPRET AND ADDRESS THE PRESENCE OF RARE COMMUNITIES.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Branchinecta lynchi
vernal pool fairy shrimp
Element Code: ICBRA03030
Federal:

State:

Threatened
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G3
S3
Other: IUCN_VU-Vulnerable
General: ENDEMIC TO THE GRASSLANDS OF THE CENTRAL VALLEY, CENTRAL COAST MOUNTAINS, AND SOUTH COAST MOUNTAINS, IN ASTATIC RAIN-FILLED POOLS.

Micro: INHABIT SMALL, CLEAR-WATER SANDSTONE-DEPRESSION POOLS AND GRASSED SWALE, EARTH SLUMP, OR BASALT-FLOW DEPRESSION POOLS.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 317 Map Index: 47950 EO Index: 47950 Element Last Seen: 2002-07-22 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 2002-07-22
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2014-10-28
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.03680 / -119.03950
UTM: Zone-11 N3989954 E316258
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 10 (M)
Accuracy: 1/5 mile
Elevation (ft): 425
Acres: 0.0
Location: VICINITY OF THE INTERSECTION OF AVENUE 136 AND HIGHWAY 65, SOUTH OF PORTERVILLE.

POOL IDS: TK-01, TK-02, TK-15 AND TK-16. MAPPED TO INCLUDE LOCATIONS GIVEN FOR OCCUPIED POOLS, WHICH APPEAR TO BE OF VARIED ACCURACY.

Detailed Location:

VERNAL POOLS WITHIN A SINGLE WATERSHED, ON AN ALLUVIAL PLAIN THAT SLOPES FROM EAST TO WEST AND IS BISECTED BY THE HIGHWAY; LOW QUALITY HABITAT, SUBJECT TO DISTURBANCES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROXIMITY TO HIGHWAY.

Ecological:

INDIVIDUALS NUMBERING IN THE 100S OBSERVED ON 7 FEB, 20 FEB, AND 3 APR 2002. COLLECTED FEB-JUL 2002 AND DEPOSITED IN CAS.

General:

Owner/Manager: STATE, PVT
Occurrence No. 337 Map Index: 48486 EO Index: 48486 Element Last Seen: 2002-07-22 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 2002-07-22
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2014-10-27
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.02117 / -119.03991
UTM: Zone-11 N3988222 E316184
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 15, NE (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 455
Acres: 25.0
Location: WEST SIDE OF HIGHWAY 65, 3 MILES SOUTH OF PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location: POOL IDS TK-03, TK-04, TK-05, TK-06.

VERNAL POOLS WITHIN A SINGLE WATERSHED ON AN ALLUVIAL PLAIN THAT SLOPES FROM EAST TO WEST, BISECTED BY THE HIGHWAY; LOW QUALITY HABITAT, SUBJECT TO DISTURBANCES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROXIMITY TO HIGHWAY.

Ecological:
100S-1000S OBSERVED IN 2 POOLS ON 20 FEB; 1000S IN 1 POOL ON 3 APR; ABOUT 100 IN 1 POOL ON 22 JULY 2002.

COLLECTIONS IN CAS (CASIZ #161981, 161994, 161983, 161979, 162003, 166583, 166585, 166586, & 166590).

General:

Owner/Manager: STATE, PVT
Desmocerus californicus dimorphus
valley elderberry longhorn beetle
Element Code: IICOL48011
Federal:

State:

Threatened
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G3T3
S3
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Other:

General: OCCURS ONLY IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY OF CALIFORNIA, IN ASSOCIATION WITH BLUE ELDERBERRY (SAMBUCUS MEXICANA).

Micro: PREFERS TO LAY EGGS IN ELDERBERRIES 2-8 INCHES IN DIAMETER; SOME PREFERENCE SHOWN FOR "STRESSED" ELDERBERRIES.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 62 Map Index: 31067 EO Index: 19327 Element Last Seen: 1991-04-21 Occ. Rank: Fair Site Last Seen: 1991-04-21
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1998-08-11
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.00781 / -118.95432
UTM: Zone-11 N3986581 E323868
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 16, SE (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 550
Acres: 0.0
Location: DEER CREEK (NORTH BANK), ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF AVENUE 120, 4 MILE SE OF PORTERVILLE.

REPORT ON: TAXONOMY; DISTRIBUTION; LIFE HISTORY; HABITAT; FIELD TECHNIQUES & OBSERVATIONS; BEETLE RECOVERY.

Detailed Location:

HABITAT CONSISTS OF BOTTOMLAND WITH SCATTERED SAMBUCUS, SURROUNDED BY ORCHARDS, GRASSLANDS, AND PASTURES.

Ecological:

General: 5 ELDERBERRY CLUMPS, INCLUDING 3 HUGE ONES, WERE CHECKED FOR VELB. ONE OLD EXIT HOLE OBSERVED.

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 63 Map Index: 31064 EO Index: 19335 Element Last Seen: 1991-04-21 Occ. Rank: Good Site Last Seen: 1991-04-21
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1998-08-11
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.04558 / -118.99347
UTM: Zone-11 N3990842 E320425
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 06, NW (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft): 490
Acres: 10.6
SOUTH SIDE OF CAMPBELL-MORELAND DITCH, TRIBUTARY TO TULE RIVER, BETWEEN WORTH AVE AND HWY 190, JUST SE OF PORTERVILLE.

Location:

REPORT ON: TAXONOMY; DISTRIBUTION; LIFE HISTORY; HABITAT; FIELD TECHNIQUES & OBSERVATIONS; BEETLE RECOVERY.

Detailed Location:

HABITAT CONSISTS OF A BRUSHY AREA WITH A FEW TREES (OAKS AND ASHES), ELDERBERRIES, AND CHOKED WITH BLACKBERRY BRAMBLES.

Ecological:

MANY HOST PLANTS (SAMBUCUS RACEMOSA MICROBOTRYS) WITH NUMEROUS EXIT HOLES; 1 ADULT FEMALE OBSERVED.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT-AT&SF RR
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Occurrence No. 64 Map Index: 31066 EO Index: 12654 Element Last Seen: 1991-04-30 Occ. Rank: Good Site Last Seen: 1991-04-30
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1998-08-11
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.04869 / -118.93730
UTM: Zone-11 N3991085 E325492
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 03, NE (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft): 520
Acres: 14.8
Location: TULE RIVER (SOUTH BANK), AT ROAD 284, JUST NORTH OF HWY 190, 2 MILES EAST OF PORTERVILLE.

REPORT ON: TAXONOMY; DISTRIBUTION; LIFE HISTORY; HABITAT; FIELD TECHNIQUES & OBSERVATIONS; BEETLE RECOVERY.

Detailed Location:

HABITAT CONSISTS OF A NARROW BAND OF RIPARIAN FOREST BORDERED BY OPEN FIELDS WITH SCATTERED ELDERBERRIES.

Ecological:

MANY ELDERBERRIES CAN BE FOUND ALONG THE TULE RIVER AND IN GRASSY FIELDS EAST OF PORTERVILLE. MANY RECENT AND OLD EXIT HOLES WERE PRESENT IN THE 3 CLUMPS THAT WERE CHECKED. WOOD SAMPLES WERE TAKEN OF LIVE WOOD WITH VELB GALLERIES.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 65 Map Index: 31065 EO Index: 12655 Element Last Seen: 1991-04-30 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 1991-04-30
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1998-08-11
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.05688 / -118.92713
UTM: Zone-11 N3991976 E326426
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 35, SW (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft): 550
Acres: 28.8
TULE RIVER (NORTH BANK), ADJACENT TO BARTLETT PARK, JUST BELOW LAKE SUCCESS DAM, 3 MILES EAST OF PORTERVILLE.

Location:

REPORT ON: TAXONOMY; DISTRIBUTION; LIFE HISTORY; HABITAT; FIELD TECHNIQUES & OBSERVATIONS; BEETLE RECOVERY.

Detailed Location:

HABITAT CONSISTS OF THE ROAD MARGIN ADJOINING A MANICURED PUBLIC PARK; 3 LARGE ELDERBERRY TREES HAD BEEN SEVERELY PRUNED AND TRIMMED.

Ecological:

BOTH RECENT AND OLD EXIT HOLES WERE PRESENT ON 30 APRIL 1991. WOOD SAMPLES TAKEN OF DEAD WOOD WITH VELB GALLERIES.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Lytta morrisoni
Morrison's blister beetle
Element Code: IICOL4C040
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G1G2
S2
Other:

General: INHABITANT OF THE SOUTHERN CENTRAL VALLEY OF CALIFORNIA.

Micro:

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 7 Map Index: 57100 EO Index: 57116 Element Last Seen: 1939-05-01 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1939-05-01
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2006-03-29
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818), Porterville (3611911) County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.04408 / -119.00817
UTM: Zone-11 N3990703 E319097
PLSS: T22S, R27E, Sec. 01 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft):

Acres: 0.0
Location: PLANO, TULARE COUNTY.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:
1990 REPORTING OF 1 MALE AND 1 FEMALE SPECIMEN, COLLECTED 1 MAY 1939 THAT ARE HOUSED AT TULARE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE IN VISALIA.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Bombus crotchii
Crotch's bumble bee
Element Code: IIHYM24480
Federal:

State:

None
Candidate Endangered
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G2
S2
Other: IUCN_EN-Endangered
General: COASTAL CALIFORNIA EAST TO THE SIERRA-CASCADE CREST AND SOUTH INTO MEXICO.

Micro: FOOD PLANT GENERA INCLUDE ANTIRRHINUM, PHACELIA, CLARKIA, DENDROMECON, ESCHSCHOLZIA, AND ERIOGONUM.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 73 Map Index: 22816 EO Index: 98762 Element Last Seen: 1963-06-13 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1963-06-13
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2015-09-10
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818), Porterville (3611911) County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.07216 / -119.00473
UTM: Zone-11 N3993812 E319471
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 25 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 500
Acres: 0.0
Location: PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location: EXACT LOCATION UNKNOWN. MAPPED BY CNDDB IN THE GENERAL VICINITY OF PORTERVILLE.

Ecological:

General: COLLECTIONS WERE MADE IN THIS VICINITY ON 31 MAY 1958, 10 MAY 1959, AND 13 JUN 1963.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Eryngium spinosepalum
spiny-sepaled button-celery
Element Code: PDAPI0Z0Y0
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G2
S2
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.2, BLM_S-Sensitive, SB_SBBG-Santa Barbara Botanic Garden General: VERNAL POOLS, VALLEY AND FOOTHILL GRASSLAND.

Micro: SOME SITES ON CLAY SOIL OF GRANITIC ORIGIN; VERNAL POOLS, WITHIN GRASSLAND. 15-1270 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 1 Map Index: 91154 EO Index: 35387 Element Last Seen: 1954-06-26 Occ. Rank: None Site Last Seen: 1987-10-02
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Possibly Extirpated
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2013-12-31
Quad Summary: Globe (3611817), Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.10088 / -118.86873
UTM: Zone-11 N3996754 E331780
PLSS: T21S, R29E, Sec. 17 (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft): 800
Acres: 79.0
Location: TULE RIVER VALLEY, 4.5 MILES BELOW SPRINGVILLE.

EXACT LOCATION UNKNOWN. MAPPED AS BEST GUESS BY CNDDB AROUND 4.5 ROAD MILES SOUTHWEST OF SPRINGVILLE ALONG HIGHWAY 190, WHERE THE HIGHWAY CROSSES THE TULE RIVER VALLEY.

Detailed Location:

Ecological: MEADOW. SUMMER-DRY RAIN POOL.

MAIN SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR THIS OCCURRENCE IS A 1954 COLLECTION BY HOWELL. ALSO COLLECTED IN 1938 FROM "BELOW SPRINGVILLE," IN 1943 FROM "MEADOW W OF SPRINGVILLE, 750FT," & 1954 FROM SPRINGVILLE. NO PLANTS SEEN NEAR SPRINGVILLE IN 1987.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 99 Map Index: B0859 EO Index: 112741 Element Last Seen: 2016-03-28 Occ. Rank: Good Site Last Seen: 2016-03-28
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2018-09-27
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.09862 / -118.94708
UTM: Zone-11 N3996642 E324723
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 16, SE (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 660
Acres: 5.0
Location: NEAR NW SHORELINE OF LAKE SUCCESS, SOUTH OF FRAZIER DIKE.

MAPPED AS 2 POLYGONS ACCORDING TO 2016 PROVANCE COORDINATES, IN THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SW 1/4 OF SECTION 15 AND THE EAST 1/2 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 16.

Detailed Location:

INTERMITTENTLY FLOODED ROAD. COMPACT SILTY CLAY, IN BROMUS DIANDRUS/AVENA DOMINATED GRASSLAND BORDERING ATRIPLEX POLYCARPA WITH SAMBUCUS. SOME PLANTS IN BROMUS MADRITENSIS/HORDEUM MURINUM DOMINATED MOIST MEADOW.

Ecological:

APPROXIMATELY 100 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 2016. PLANTS STERILE; COLLECTED AS ERYNGIUM PINNATISECTUM BUT LIKELY E. SPINOSEPALUM BASED ON PROXIMITY TO KNOWN E. SPINOSEPALUM OCCURRENCE ACCORDING TO PROVANCE.

General:

Owner/Manager: USACE
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Occurrence No. 100 Map Index: B0860 EO Index: 112743 Element Last Seen: 2017-05-11 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 2017-05-11
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2018-09-28
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.10428 / -118.94234
UTM: Zone-11 N3997262 E325162
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 15, NW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 660
Acres: 1.0
Location: AT THE BASE OF THE FRAZIER DIKE (NORTH SIDE) 400 METERS SW OF SPRINGVILLE SUBSTATION, LAKE SUCCESS.

Detailed Location: MAPPED ACCORDING TO 2016 PROVANCE COORDINATES, IN THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 15.

VERNAL POOL ON HEAVY BLACK ADOBE NOW DRY. ASSOCIATES INCLUDE ELEOCHARIS MACROSTACHYA, LYTHRUM HYSSOPIFOLIA, LOLIUM, RUMEX.

Ecological:

General: APPROXIMATELY 200 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 2016 AND 2017.

Owner/Manager: USACE
Pseudobahia peirsonii
San Joaquin adobe sunburst
Element Code: PDAST7P030
Federal:

State:

Threatened
Endangered
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G1
S1
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.1, SB_CalBG/RSABG-California/Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden General: VALLEY AND FOOTHILL GRASSLAND, CISMONTANE WOODLAND.

Micro: GRASSY VALLEY FLOORS AND ROLLING FOOTHILLS IN HEAVY CLAY SOIL. 115-795 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 8 Map Index: 30797 EO Index: 56154 Element Last Seen: 1935-03-28 Occ. Rank: None Site Last Seen: 1990-04-08
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Extirpated
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2011-04-28
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.02211 / -118.95016
UTM: Zone-11 N3988160 E324275
PLSS: T22S, R28E (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 1700
Acres: 0.0
Location: 4 MILES SOUTHEAST OF PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location: MAPPED BY CNDDB AS BEST GUESS APPROXIMATELY 4 AIR MILES SE OF PORTERVILLE.

Ecological:

SITE BASED ON A 1935 RICHARDSON COLLECTION. SITE VISITED IN 1990, NO PLANTS FOUND; MOST LANDS IN THIS VICINITY HAVE BEEN CONVERTED TO INTENSIVE AGRICULTURE. SITE IS PRESUMED EXTIRPATED.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
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Occurrence No. 10 Map Index: 00141 EO Index: 7986 Element Last Seen: 2010-03-31 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 2010-03-31
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2017-03-27
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.06040 / -118.92835
UTM: Zone-11 N3992368 E326324
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 34, NE (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 700
Acres: 5.0
Location: APPROXIMATELY 0.25 AIR MILE WEST OF SUCCESS DAM, NORTH OF BARTLETT PARK, EAST OF PORTERVILLE.

ALONG ROAD TO SUCCESS DAM APPROXIMATELY 0.35 MILE BELOW SPILLWAY ON ROADBANK, 0.15 MILE ABOVE ENTRANCE TO BARTLETT PARK. NEAR BASE OF BIG HILL.

Detailed Location:

GROWING ON PORTERVILLE CLAY SOILS IN ASSOCIATION WITH AMSINCKIA INTERMEDIA, AVENA BARBATA, BROMUS DIANDRUS, B. RUBENS, SISYMBRIUM, AND SILYBUM.

Ecological:
~30 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 1974. ~100 PLANTS IN 1985, 45 PLANTS IN 1990, 40 PLANTS SEEN IN 2010. PLANTS OCCUR BETWEEN ROAD AND FENCE, NO PLANTS OBSERVED BEHIND FENCE IN OVERGRAZED GRASSLAND. INCLUDES FORMER OCCURRENCE #9.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 19 Map Index: 00152 EO Index: 7987 Element Last Seen: 2006-04-17 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 2010-XX-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Fluctuating Record Last Updated: 2011-05-10
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.07639 / -118.92366
UTM: Zone-11 N3994134 E326781
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 26, NW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 700
Acres: 47.0
Location: 1.5 KM (0.9 MI) NORTH OF SPILLWAY OF LAKE SUCCESS AT THE BASE OF ROCKY HILL.

Detailed Location: 3 POLYGONS MAPPED BY CNDDB ACCORDING TO MAPS PROVIDED.

GROWING ON PORTERVILLE AND CIBO CLAY SOILS IN DEGRADED NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND HABITAT. THE DOMINANT ASSOCIATES INCLUDE BRASSICA NIGRA, AVENA FATUA, ETC. THE RARE FRITILLARIA STRIATA HAS BEEN OBSERVED AT THE NORTHERN PORTION OF THE OCCURRENCE.

Ecological:

APPROX. 225 PLANTS SEEN IN 1985, 50 SEEN IN 1986, 200 IN 1989, 200 IN 1990. 150 PLANTS SEEN IN 2002 BY CYPHER. 30 PLANTS OBSERVED IN NORTH AND EAST POLYGONS IN 2006. NOT OBSERVED IN 2010 (SITE HEAVILY MODIFIED).

INCLUDES FORMER OCC #20.

General:

Owner/Manager: DOD-COE
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Occurrence No. 21 Map Index: 00226 EO Index: 7985 Element Last Seen: 1985-04-06 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 1990-03-22
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Decreasing Record Last Updated: 2011-05-04
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.06933 / -118.88731
UTM: Zone-11 N3993286 E330041
PLSS: T21S, R29E, Sec. 30, SW (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 700
Acres: 0.0
Location: LAKE SUCCESS, SOUTH FORK TULE RIVER ARM, APPROXIMATELY 1 MI NNE OF MINE HILL SUMMIT.

Detailed Location: IN LOW RAVINE JUST ABOVE HIGH WATER LEVEL.

GROWING ON HEAVY PORTERVILLE CLAY IN SEVERELY IMPACTED NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND. DOMINANT SPECIES INCLUDE AMSINCKIA INTERMEDIA, BROMUS RUBENS, AND ERODIUM CICUTARIUM.

Ecological:
31 DEPAUPERATE PLANTS SEEN IN 1985, NONE FOUND BY STEBBINS IN 1986 OR 1990. THERE IS SOME QUESTION WHETHER STEBBINS VISITED THE SAME SITE IN 1990 AS IN 1985 (MAPS DON'T MATCH EXACTLY). SITE WAS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN 2010.

General:

Owner/Manager: DOD-COE
Occurrence No. 26 Map Index: 22182 EO Index: 7968 Element Last Seen: 2016-03-18 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 2016-03-18
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2017-03-27
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.10729 / -119.01186
UTM: Zone-11 N3997723 E318909
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 13, N (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 650
Acres: 98.2
Location: LEWIS HILL, NORTH OF PORTERVILLE.

LOCATED WITHIN THE SE 1/4 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 11, N 1/2 SEC 13, AND S 1/2 SEC 12. INCLUDES FORMER OCC #27.

Detailed Location:

GROWING ON CIBO CLAY AND CIBO ROCK OUTCROP COMPLEX SOILS IN ABANDONED WHEAT FIELD. ASSOCIATES

INCLUDE HORDEUM LEPORINUM, ACHYRACHAENA MOLLIS, AVENA BARBATA, BROMUS MOLLIS, SENECIO, MEDICAGO, STELLARIA, AMSINCKIA, AND ERODIUM CICUTARIUM.

Ecological:
71 PLANTS SEEN IN 1988 IN 3 NORTH POLYGONS. SOUTH POLYGON: <100 PLANTS SEEN IN 2001, UNKNOWN NUMBER IN 2015, 148 IN 2016. SITE MAY BENEFIT IF LEFT UNDER PRESENT GRAZING REGIME RATHER THAN REVERTING BACK TO CULTIVATED AGRICULTURE (1988).

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
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Occurrence No. 28 Map Index: 22184 EO Index: 7967 Element Last Seen: 1988-03-27 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 1990-04-12
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2011-05-09
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.10081 / -119.01106
UTM: Zone-11 N3997002 E318967
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 13, SW (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 590
Acres: 0.0
SOUTH SLOPE OF LEWIS HILL, 1.8 KM (1.1 MI) NNW OF INTERSECTION OF LOCUST STREET AND GREVILLA STREET IN PORTERVILLE.

Location:

WITHIN THE NE 1/4 OF THE SW 1/4 OF SECTION 13, 0.2 KM (0.1 MI) WEST OF GREVILLA STREET, 0.6 KM (0.35 MI) SOUTH OF ELEV. 1028 ON LEWIS HILL ON TOPO MAP.

Detailed Location:

GROWING ON CIBO CLAY AND CIBO ROCK OUTCROP COMPLEX SOILS IN ABANDONED WHEAT FIELD. ASSOCIATES

INCLUDE HORDEUM LEPORINUM, ACHYRACHAENA MOLLIS, AVENA BARBATA, BROMUS MOLLIS, SENECIO, MEDICAGO, STELLARIA, AMSINCKIA, AND ERODIUM CICUTARIUM.

Ecological:
300 PLANTS SEEN IN 1988. NO PLANTS SEEN IN 1990, BUT SURVEY MAY HAVE BEEN TOO LATE. SITE MAY BENEFIT IF LEFT UNDER CURRENT GRAZING REGIME RATHER THAN REVERTING BACK TO CULTIVATED AGRICULTURE. SITE NOT ACCESSIBLE IN 2010.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 32 Map Index: 22198 EO Index: 7992 Element Last Seen: 1990-04-12 Occ. Rank: Good Site Last Seen: 1990-04-12
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2011-05-04
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.11612 / -118.99378
UTM: Zone-11 N3998668 E320557
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 07, SW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 900
Acres: 51.1
Location: WEST OF FRAZIER VALLEY, 3.5 KM (2 MI) WNW OF ROAD 276/AVE 176 JUNCTION.

Detailed Location: 1.5-2.1 MILES NORTH OF ROCKY HILL.

GROWING ON PORTERVILLE COBBLY CLAY AND CIBO CLAY SOILS. DOMINANTS IN NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND INCLUDE

HORDEUM LEPORINUM, VULPIA MYUROS, AVENA BARBATA, AGOSERIS HETEROPHYLLA, ERODIUM MOSCHATUM, BROMUS MOLLIS, AND B. RUBENS.

Ecological:
140 PLANTS SEEN IN 1988, 150 SEEN IN 1990. SITE WAS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN 2010 BUT HABITAT APPEARED UNMODIFIED AND SUITABLE (VIEWED FROM A DISTANCE).

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
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Occurrence No. 33 Map Index: 22197 EO Index: 7989 Element Last Seen: 2010-04-01 Occ. Rank: Fair Site Last Seen: 2010-04-01
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Decreasing Record Last Updated: 2011-05-12
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.11099 / -118.97029
UTM: Zone-11 N3998056 E322660
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 08, S (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 800
Acres: 348.0
WEST OF FRAZIER VALLEY, APPROXIMATELY 0.5 TO 1.5 MILES WEST OF ROAD 276 / AVE 176 JUNCTION, NORTH OF ROCKY HILL.

Location:

MAPPED BY CNDDB AS 3 POLYGONS TO ENCOMPASS MAP DATA FROM A 1988 HANSEN MAP AND 2010 VOLLMAR DIGITAL DATA.

Detailed Location:

GROWING ON PORTERVILLE COBBLY CLAY AND CIBO CLAY SOILS. DOMINANTS IN NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND INCLUDE

HORDEUM LEPORINUM, VULPIA MYUROS, AVENA BARBATA, AGOSERIS HETEROPHYLLA, ERODIUM MOSCHATUM, BROMUS MOLLIS, AND B. RUBENS.

Ecological:

General: 5000+ PLANTS SEEN IN 1988, 500 PLANTS SEEN IN 1990. APPROXIMATELY 200 PLANTS SEEN IN 2010.

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 34 Map Index: 22196 EO Index: 7991 Element Last Seen: 1988-04-09 Occ. Rank: Fair Site Last Seen: 1988-04-09
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2011-05-09
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.10894 / -118.99899
UTM: Zone-11 N3997881 E320072
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 18, NW (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 900
Acres: 0.0
Location: WEST OF FRAZIER VALLEY, APPROXIMATELY 2.5 MILES WEST OF ROAD 276/AVE 176 JUNCTION, NORTH OF ROCKY HILL.

Detailed Location: LOCATED IN EXTREME NW CORNER OF SECTION 18.

GROWING ON PORTERVILLE CLAY/CIBO CLAY/CIBO ROCK OUTCROP COMPLEX SOILS. ASSOCIATES INCLUDE HORDEUM

LEPORINUM, AVENA BARBATA, BRODIAEA LUTEA, LOMATIUM, RANUNCULUS, SENECIO, AMSINCKIA, BROMUS MOLLIS, VULPIA, MEDICAGO, AND BRASSICA NIGRA.

Ecological:

General: 2 PLANTS SEEN IN 1988. SITE WAS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN 2010.

Owner/Manager: PVT
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Occurrence No. 35 Map Index: 22195 EO Index: 7988 Element Last Seen: 1990-03-22 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 1990-03-22
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2011-05-04
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.08287 / -118.98393
UTM: Zone-11 N3994962 E321369
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 19, SE (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 660
Acres: 0.0
WEST OF ROCKY HILL, APPROXIMATELY 1.2 MILES NORTH OF CLATTE DRIVE/HOLCOMB ROAD JUNCTION IN PORTERVILLE.

Location:

Detailed Location: WITHIN THE SE 1/4 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 19, 0.6 KM (0.4 MI) EAST OF LINDA LANE.

ON CIBO CLAY SOILS GROWING IN HEAVILY GRAZED NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND. ASSOCIATES INCLUDE BRASSICA NIGRA, STELLARIA MEDIA, MEDICAGO POLYMORPHA, VULPIA MYUROS, AND AMSINCKIA INTERMEDIA.

Ecological:
3 PLANTS SEEN IN 1988, 12 SEEN IN 1990. STEBBINS INDICATES THAT DUE TO SMALL POPULATION SIZE, THIS SITE MAY BE MARGINAL IN VIABILITY. SITE WAS NOT ACCESSIBLE IN 2010 BUT HABITAT APPEARED SUITABLE FROM THE ROAD IN 2010.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 45 Map Index: 74595 EO Index: 75595 Element Last Seen: 2006-04-21 Occ. Rank: Fair Site Last Seen: 2006-04-21
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2011-05-04
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.08555 / -118.91814
UTM: Zone-11 N3995141 E327299
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 23, SE (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 682
Acres: 0.0
Location: SOUTHERN PORTION OF BOAT ISLAND, LAKE SUCCESS.

Detailed Location: MAPPED IN THE NW 1/4 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 23. "BOAT ISLAND" IS NOT LABELED ON USGS TOPO MAP.

IN TALL AVENA FATUA ANNUAL GRASSLAND, UNGRAZED, WITH SPARSE VEGETATIVE COVER AT GROUND LEVEL.

GENTLY SLOPING, S-FACING ALLUVIAL FAN. THE RARE CLARKIA SPRINGVILLENSIS OCCURS UPSLOPE AT BASE OF RHYOLITIC ROCK OUTCROPS.

Ecological:

General: APPROXIMATELY 45 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 2006. SITE NOT VISITED IN 2010.

Owner/Manager: DOD-COE
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Occurrence No. 46 Map Index: 74597 EO Index: 75602 Element Last Seen: 2006-04-17 Occ. Rank: Fair Site Last Seen: 2010-XX-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Decreasing Record Last Updated: 2011-05-16
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.06507 / -118.92548
UTM: Zone-11 N3992881 E326593
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 35, NW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 720
Acres: 1.0
Location: ROCKY HILL RECREATION AREA, ON NORTH SIDE OF WORTH ROAD, NW SIDE OF DAM AT LAKE SUCCESS.

Detailed Location: MAPPED IN THE NW 1/4 OF THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 35, APPROX. 300 FEET UPSLOPE FROM ROAD.

SE-FACING SLOPE IN HEAVY CLAY. SOIL IS LAS POSAS-ROCK OUTCROP COMPLEX. ASSOCIATES INCLUDE ASCLEPIAS

SPECIOSA, BROMUS MADRITENSIS RUBENS, LEONTODON TARAXACOIDES, PLAGIOBOTHRYS NOTHOFULVUS, AND THE RARE CONVOLVULUS SIMULANS.

Ecological:

APPROXIMATELY 120 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 2006. NO PLANTS WERE OBSERVED IN 2010; SITE HAS BEEN HEAVILY MODIFIED AND IS ADJACENT TO LAKE SUCCESS.

General:

Owner/Manager: DOD-COE
Senecio aphanactis
chaparral ragwort
Element Code: PDAST8H060
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G3
S2
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 2B.2, SB_CalBG/RSABG-California/Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank
General: CHAPARRAL, CISMONTANE WOODLAND, COASTAL SCRUB.

Micro: DRYING ALKALINE FLATS. 20-1020 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 67 Map Index: A5970 EO Index: 107724 Element Last Seen: 1982-03-20 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1982-03-20
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2017-08-17
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.06709 / -118.89678
UTM: Zone-11 N3993055 E329183
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 25, SE (M)
Accuracy: 1/5 mile
Elevation (ft): 1200
Acres: 70.0
Location: MINE HILL SOUTHEAST OF CA HIGHWAY 190 ABOVE LAKE SUCCESS AND SOUTH OF SOUTH FORK TULE RIVER.

MAPPED AS BEST GUESS BY CNDDB AROUND PORTION OF MINE HILL THAT IS WITHIN GIVEN SECTION 25 AND AROUND GIVEN ELEVATION OF 1200 FT.

Detailed Location:

Ecological: ON CLAY-LIKE SOILS ON STEEP NORTH-FACING SLOPE IN A BLUE OAK WOODLAND.

SITE IS BASED ON A 1982 SHEVOCK COLLECTION, ANNOTATED AS SENECIO APHANACTIS BY TROCK IN 2012. NEEDS FIELDWORK.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Monolopia congdonii
San Joaquin woollythreads
Element Code: PDASTA8010
Federal:

State:

Endangered
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G2
S2
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.2, SB_UCBG-UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley General: CHENOPOD SCRUB, VALLEY AND FOOTHILL GRASSLAND.

Micro: ALKALINE OR LOAMY PLAINS; SANDY SOILS, OFTEN WITH GRASSES AND WITHIN CHENOPOD SCRUB. 55-840 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 111 Map Index: 99233 EO Index: 100761 Element Last Seen: 1881-03-XX Occ. Rank: None Site Last Seen: 1881-03-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Possibly Extirpated
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2019-08-15
Posey (3511876), Johnsondale (3511885), California Hot Springs (3511886), Gibbon Peak (3511887), Fountain Springs (3511888), Ducor (3511981), Sausalito School (3511982), Pixley (3511983), Alpaugh (3511984), Success Dam (3611818) Quad Summary:

County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.00692 / -118.95842
UTM: Zone-11 N3986490 E323497
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 21 (M)
Accuracy: non-specific area
Elevation (ft):

Acres: 4128.0
Location: DEER CREEK, TULARE COUNTY.

Detailed Location: EXACT LOCATION UNKNOWN. MAPPED AS A BEST GUESS ALONG THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF DEER CREEK.

Ecological:

General: TYPE LOCALITY. SITE BASED ON AN 1881 CONGDON COLLECTION. NEEDS FIELDWORK.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Sidalcea keckii
Keck's checkerbloom
Element Code: PDMAL110D0
Federal:

State:

Endangered
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G2
S2
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.1, SB_CalBG/RSABG-California/Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden General: CISMONTANE WOODLAND, VALLEY AND FOOTHILL GRASSLAND.

Micro: GRASSY SLOPES IN BLUE OAK WOODLAND. ON SERPENTINE-DERIVED, CLAY SOILS, AT LEAST SOMETIMES. 85-505 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 5 Map Index: 21637 EO Index: 17766 Element Last Seen: 1992-04-15 Occ. Rank: None Site Last Seen: 2002-XX-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Extirpated
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2019-08-12
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.03383 / -118.92572
UTM: Zone-11 N3989416 E326503
PLSS: T22S, R28E, Sec. 11, NW (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 750
Acres: 0.0
Location: APPROXIMATELY 1.5 AIR MILES SOUTH OF HIGHWAY 190, 2 MILES SW OF SUCCESS DAM.

Detailed Location: 0.2 MILE WEST OF SCE POWERLINES. NEAR MINE HILL, ON LOWER LATERAL SLOPES (EAST OF PORTERVILLE).

SW-FACING SLOPE WITH SPARSE COMPETITIVE ANNUAL GRASSES. IN CENTERVILLE CLAY SOILS. ASSOCIATED WITH BROMUS RUBENS, LEPIDIUM NITIDUM, PLANTAGO HOOKERIANA, SENECIO VULGARIS, AND SILENE GALLICA.

Ecological:
60 PLANTS SEEN IN 1992. THIS SPECIES WAS CONSIDERED POSSIBLY EXTINCT; FIRST TIME SEEN IN 53 YEARS IN 1992.

EXTIRPATED IN OR BEFORE 2002 BY ORANGE GROVES ACCORDING TO STEBBINS.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 20 Map Index: B3670 EO Index: 116583 Element Last Seen: 1954-05-08 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1954-05-08
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2019-08-12
Quad Summary: Globe (3611817), Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.09988 / -118.87017
UTM: Zone-11 N3996646 E331649
PLSS: T21S, R29E, Sec. 17 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 800
Acres: 1987.0
Location: TULE RIVER VALLEY, 4.5 MILES BELOW SPRINGVILLE.

EXACT LOCATION UNKNOWN. MAPPED AS BEST GUESS BY CNDDB CENTERED AROUND 4.5 ROAD MILES SOUTHWEST OF SPRINGVILLE ALONG HIGHWAY 190, WHERE THE HIGHWAY CROSSES THE TULE RIVER VALLEY. GIVEN ELEVATION IS 800 FEET.

Detailed Location:

Ecological: GRASSY FLAT.

General: ONLY SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR THIS SITE IS A 1954 HOWELL & BARNEBY COLLECTION. NEEDS FIELDWORK.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Clarkia springvillensis
Springville clarkia
Element Code: PDONA05120
Federal:

State:

Threatened
Endangered
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G2
S2
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.2, SB_UCSC-UC Santa Cruz
Habitat: General: CHAPARRAL, CISMONTANE WOODLAND, VALLEY AND FOOTHILL GRASSLAND.

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Micro: CUTBANKS AND OPENINGS IN BLUE OAK WOODLAND. DECOMPOSED GRANITE LOAM. 210-2255 M.

Occurrence No. 19 Map Index: 55935 EO Index: 55951 Element Last Seen: 2002-04-16 Occ. Rank: Fair Site Last Seen: 2002-04-16
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2017-11-09
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.10634 / -119.00562
UTM: Zone-11 N3997606 E319469
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 13, NE (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 800
Acres: 0.0
Location: NE OF PORTERVILLE, WEST SIDE OF PLANO STREET, BELOW LEWIS HILL PRESERVE. APPROX 0.25 MI E OF LEWIS HILL.

Detailed Location: BETWEEN ROAD SHOULDER AND FENCE, OUTSIDE OF FENCE OF PRESERVE.

Ecological: ALIEN GRASSES ARE ASSOCIATES. ON STEEP W-FACING SLOPE.

General: ABOUT 5 PLANTS SEEN BY STEWART IN 2002.

Owner/Manager: USFS-SEQUOIA NF
Occurrence No. 29 Map Index: A7894 EO Index: 109680 Element Last Seen: 2016-03-29 Occ. Rank: Good Site Last Seen: 2016-03-29
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2018-01-05
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.06347 / -118.92498
UTM: Zone-11 N3992703 E326635
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 35, NW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 700
Acres: 4.0
Location: WEST END OF LAKE SUCCESS DAM; NEAR SPILLWAY AND ARMY CORP PARKING LOT.

MAPPED ACCORDING TO 2006 BEYERL MAP AND 2016 PROVANCE COORDINATES. IN THE NW 1/4 OF THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 35.

Detailed Location:

GRASSY SLOPE DOMINATED BY BROMUS DIANDRUS/AVENA BARBATA. NATIVE ANNUALS COMMON INCLUDING PHACELIA CICUTARIA, CLAYTONIA, TRITELEIA LAXA, T. IXIOIDES, LESSINGIA FILAGINIFOLIA. PLANTS ONLY FOUND ON NE AND N ASPECTS.

Ecological:

APPROXIMATELY 300 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 2006 AND 200 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 2016. PLANTS COMPARED WITH POPULATION AT LEWIS HILL (EO #19). ID NEEDS VERIFICATION; CLARKIA PLANTS ON BOAT ISLAND HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS C. EXILIS BY FRANK VASEK.

General:

Owner/Manager: DOD-COE
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Occurrence No. 30 Map Index: A7895 EO Index: 109681 Element Last Seen: 2017-05-11 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 2017-05-11
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2018-01-02
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.09831 / -118.95334
UTM: Zone-11 N3996619 E324158
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 16, SE (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 815
Acres: 5.0
1/4 MILE SE OF INTERSECTION OF FRAZIER DIKE ROAD AND PRIVATE ROAD, NORTH END OF ROCKY HILL, NW END OF LAKE SUCCESS.

Location:

Detailed Location: MAPPED ACCORDING TO 2017 GORDON-BLACKWOOD COORDINATES, IN THE NW 1/4 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 16.

Ecological: OAK WOODLAND FOOHILL. AMONG ROCKS AND CLARKIA CYLINDRICA. 25 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 2017. ID NEEDS VERIFICATION; NEARBY CLARKIA PLANTS ON BOAT ISLAND AT LAKE SUCCESS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS C. EXILIS BY FRANK VASEK.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Leptosiphon serrulatus
Madera leptosiphon
Element Code: PDPLM09130
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G3
S3
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.2, BLM_S-Sensitive, SB_SBBG-Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, USFS_S-Sensitive General: CISMONTANE WOODLAND, LOWER MONTANE CONIFEROUS FOREST.

Micro: DRY SLOPES; OFTEN ON DECOMPOSED GRANITE IN WOODLAND. 80-1645 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 18 Map Index: 30797 EO Index: 13155 Element Last Seen: 1935-03-28 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1935-03-28
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1995-03-03
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.02211 / -118.95016
UTM: Zone-11 N3988160 E324275
PLSS: T22S, R28E (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 1000
Acres: 0.0
Location: 4 MILES SOUTHEAST OF PORTERVILLE.

MAPPED AT CNDDB APPROX 1.5 MILES SOUTH OF HIGHWAY 190 AND APPROX 2 MILES W OF ROAD 298, AND 4 MILES DUE SE OF PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

General: ONLY SOURCE OF INFORMATION IS A 1935 COLLECTION BY RICHARDSON. NEEDS FIELDWORK.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Navarretia nigelliformis ssp. radians
shining navarretia
Element Code: PDPLM0C0J2
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G4T2T3
S2S3
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.2, BLM_S-Sensitive
General: CISMONTANE WOODLAND, VALLEY AND FOOTHILL GRASSLAND, VERNAL POOLS.

Micro: APPARENTLY IN GRASSLAND, AND NOT NECESSARILY IN VERNAL POOLS. 60-975 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 77 Map Index: B0126 EO Index: 111985 Element Last Seen: 2016-06-06 Occ. Rank: Excellent Site Last Seen: 2016-06-06
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2018-07-25
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.07663 / -118.92837
UTM: Zone-11 N3994169 E326359
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 27, NE (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 810
Acres: 2.0
LAKE SUCCESS AREA; TRANSMISSION LINE CORRIDOR ABOUT 1 MILE NNW OF THE SPILLWAY, ABOUT 5 MILES E OF PORTERVILLE.

Location:

MAPPED ACCORDING TO 2016 PROVANCE COORDINATES, ON THE SECTION LINE BETWEEN THE NE 1/4 OF SECTION 27 AND THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 26.

Detailed Location:

GENTLE SLOPE; ANNUAL GRASSLAND DOMINATED BY AVENA AND BROMUS HORDEACEUS, WITH HOLOCARPHA HEERMANNII. ADOBE SOILS.

Ecological:

General: ABOUT 2000 PLANTS SEEN IN 2016.

Owner/Manager: PVT-SCE
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Diplacus pictus
calico monkeyflower
Element Code: PDSCR1B240
Federal:

State:

None
None
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G2
S2
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.2, BLM_S-Sensitive, SB_CalBG/RSABG-California/Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden General: BROADLEAFED UPLAND FOREST, CISMONTANE WOODLAND.

Micro: IN BARE GROUND AROUND GOOSEBERRY BUSHES OR AROUND GRANITE ROCK OUTCROPS. 180-1280 M.

Habitat:

Occurrence No. 21 Map Index: 00073 EO Index: 17680 Element Last Seen: 1983-04-26 Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1983-04-26
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2016-11-04
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.07436 / -118.93782
UTM: Zone-11 N3993934 E325502
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 27 (M)
Accuracy: 1/5 mile
Elevation (ft): 1440
Acres: 0.0
IN SADDLE OF ROCKY HILL BETWEEN ELEVATION POINTS 1593 AND 1567, WEST OF LAKE SUCCESS AND EAST OF PORTERVILLE.

Location:

Detailed Location: MAPPED BY CNDDB IN THE SE 1/4 OF THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 27 BASED ON 1983 SHEVOCK FIELD SURVEY.

Ecological: AT BASE OF RIBES QUERCETORUM AND GRANITIC BOULDERS.

ABOUT 20 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 1983. COLLECTIONS FROM "PORTERVILLE", "3 MI E OF PORTERVILLE", "LOWEST FOOTHILLS ABOUT 2 MI E OF PORTERVILLE", AND "ROCKY HILL JUST E OF PORTERVILLE" ARE ATTRIBUTED TO THIS OCCURRENCE. INCLUDES FORMER OCC #24.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
Fritillaria striata
striped adobe-lily
Element Code: PMLIL0V0K0
Federal:

State:

None
Threatened
Listing Status: CNDDB Element Ranks: Global:

State:

G1
S1
Other: Rare Plant Rank - 1B.1, SB_CalBG/RSABG-California/Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, SB_SBBG-Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, SB_USDA-US Dept of Agriculture, USFS_S-Sensitive General: CISMONTANE WOODLAND, VALLEY AND FOOTHILL GRASSLAND.

Micro: HEAVY CLAY ADOBE SOILS IN OAK GRASSLAND. 135-1460 M.

Habitat:

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Occurrence No. 8 Map Index: 22816 EO Index: 7994 Element Last Seen: 1927-03-13 Occ. Rank: None Site Last Seen: 1927-03-13
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Extirpated
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2006-06-09
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818), Porterville (3611911) County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.07216 / -119.00473
UTM: Zone-11 N3993812 E319471
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 25 (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 450
Acres: 0.0
Location: PORTERVILLE.

Detailed Location:

Ecological:

HERBARIUM LABEL IS ONLY SOURCE OF LOCATION INFORMATION FOR THIS SITE. ACCORDING TO SHEVOCK, THIS AREA HAS BEEN PLOWED FOR AGRICULTURE AND ALL ADOBE SOILS ARE GONE.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 9 Map Index: 22813 EO Index: 64957 Element Last Seen: 1988-04-01 Occ. Rank: Poor Site Last Seen: 1988-04-01
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2006-06-15
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.11091 / -118.98101
UTM: Zone-11 N3998067 E321695
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 08, SW (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 900
Acres: 0.0
Location: NORTH OF ROCKY HILL, 1.4 MILE WEST OF THE JUNCTION OF ROAD 276 AND AVE 176.

Detailed Location:

GROWING IN A NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND. CIBO-ROCK COMPLEX SOILS. ASSOCIATES INCLUDE HORDEUM LEPORINUM,

VULPIA MYUROS, BROMUS MOLLIS, AVENA BARBATA, NAVARRETIA, ACHYRACHAENA MOLLIS, SENECIO VULGARE, BRODIAEA LAXA, SANICULA, AND ERODIUM.

Ecological:
86 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 1988 WITHIN AN AREA OF 36 SQUARE METERS. 1936 AND 1958 COLLECTIONS BY HOOVER FROM "FRAZIER VALLEY" ATTRIBUTED HERE. INCLUDES FORMER OCCURRENCE #22.

General:

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
Occurrence No. 21 Map Index: 00213 EO Index: 21996 Element Last Seen: 198X-XX-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 198X-XX-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1989-08-11
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.05688 / -118.89537
UTM: Zone-11 N3991919 E329287
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 36, SE (M)
Accuracy: 1 mile
Elevation (ft): 1700
Acres: 0.0
Location: MINE HILL, NEAR LAKE SUCCESS.

Detailed Location:

Ecological: ON ADOBE SOIL.

General: REPORTED FROM HERE BY JIM SHEVOCK.

Owner/Manager: UNKNOWN
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Occurrence No. 23 Map Index: 22814 EO Index: 7993 Element Last Seen: 1990-03-29 Occ. Rank: Fair Site Last Seen: 1990-03-29
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 1993-03-03
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.07098 / -118.92952
UTM: Zone-11 N3993544 E326242
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 27, SE (M)
Accuracy: 80 meters
Elevation (ft): 950
Acres: 0.0
Location: SOUTHEAST OF ROCKY HILL, WEST OF LAKE SUCCESS; 1.2 KM (0.8 MI) NNE OF HILLTOP "WORTH, 1518" ON TOPO MAP.

Detailed Location:

Ecological: GROWING IN A FOOTHILL GRASSLAND COMMUNTY DOMINATED BY ANNUAL GRASSES.

General: ONLY 2 PLANTS FOUND.

Owner/Manager: PVT
Occurrence No. 24 Map Index: 22815 EO Index: 7995 Element Last Seen: 2007-03-01 Occ. Rank: Good Site Last Seen: 2007-03-01
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2009-04-02
Quad Summary: Porterville (3611911)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.10899 / -119.01147
UTM: Zone-11 N3997910 E318949
PLSS: T21S, R27E, Sec. 13, NW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 900
Acres: 23.0
Location: LEWIS HILL, NORTH OF PORTERVILLE.

INCLUDES N 1/2 OF NW 1/4 OF SECTION 13 AND THE SW 1/4 OF THE SW 1/4 OF SECTION 12. THERE APPEARS TO BE ABUNDANT SUITABLE HABITAT, HOWEVER ONLY UNGRAZED AREAS HAVE FRITILLARIA STRIATA.

Detailed Location:

GROWING IN NON-NATIVE GRASSLAND ON A CIBO-ROCK OUTCROP COMPLEX. ASSOCIATES INCLUDE HORDEUM LEPORINUM, BRODIAEA LAXA, AVENA BARBATA, DICHELOSTEMMA PULCHELLUM, LOMATIUM SPP., OROBANCHE UNIFLORA, VULPIA MYUROS, AND BROMUS MOLLIS.

Ecological:
1310 PLANTS OBSERVED IN 1988. APPROX. 30 PLANTS IN CENTER POLYGON AND 30 MORE PLANTS "FURTHER UPSLOPE...AT CA. 900 FT." IN 2007. # PROBABLY UNDERESTIMATED; ENTIRE SITE NOT INVESTIGATED. COMPATABLE GRAZING REGIME SHOULD BE DETERMINED.

General:

Owner/Manager: PVT
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Occurrence No. 28 Map Index: 74278 EO Index: 75325 Element Last Seen: 1998-XX-XX Occ. Rank: Unknown Site Last Seen: 1998-XX-XX
Occ. Type: Natural/Native occurrence
Presence: Presumed Extant
Trend: Unknown Record Last Updated: 2009-04-02
Quad Summary: Success Dam (3611818)
County Summary: Tulare
Lat/Long: 36.07952 / -118.92667
UTM: Zone-11 N3994486 E326517
PLSS: T21S, R28E, Sec. 26, NW (M)
Accuracy: specific area
Elevation (ft): 700
Acres: 8.0
Location: ESE OF ROCKY HILL, WEST OF LAKE SUCCESS, 0.6 TO 0.7 AIR MILE NE OF HILLTOP 1567 ON TOPO MAP.

Detailed Location: MAPPED IN THE NW 1/4 OF THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 26.

Ecological: THE RARE PSEUDOBAHIA PIERSONII OCCURS NEARBY.

UNKNOWN NUMBER OF PLANTS OBSERVED IN 1997 AND 1998. SURVEYS WERE CONDUCTED BY DWR FOR USACE.

CNDDB DOES NOT HAVE THE COMPLETE DATA, ONLY MAPPED LOCATIONS.

General:

Owner/Manager: DOD
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INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
March 2025 (Revised April 2025)
CITY OF PORTERVILLE – Della Farms Residential Subdivision | 153

7.3 Appendix C: Biological Resource Assessment
Prepared by Argonaut Ecological Consulting, Inc., dated October 31, 2024.

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Porterville City CouncilMay 6, 2025

Porterville City Council
May 6, 2025