June 25, 2013 @ 2:30 P.M

OJAI V ALLEY SANITARY DISTRICT A Public Agency 1072 Tico Road, Ojai, California 93023 (805) 646-5548 • FAX (805) 640-0842 www.ojaisan.org

MEETING OF THE CEQA REVIEW COMMITTEE Date & Time: Location: July 1,2013 OVSD Board Room Monday @ 11 :00 a.m. Members: Russ Baggerly Peter M. Kaiser William C. Murphy

AGENDA

1. Select Chairman For The Committee

2. Public Comment - (Items not on the agenda - 3 minute limit)

3. Review of Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration - Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Project

4. Architectural Design Review - Treatment Plant Security Gate Replacement

5. Discussion

a. Public b. Committee Members c. General Manager

6. Adjournment

A staff report providing more detailed information is available for most agenda items, and may be reviewed in the District office during regular business hours. Copies of individual reports may be requested from Brenda Krout (646-5548).

ATTEST TO POSTI NG:

- June 25, 2013 @ 2:30 p.m. Brenda Krout - Clerk of the Board Date & Time Posted At District Office

\\OVSD-ARCHIVE1 \My Documents\Committee Meetings\Commt-CEQA\2013\2013-07 -01 \agenda.docx ITEM # 3 Memorandum

Ojai Valley Sanitary District

June 25, 2013

To: CEQA Review Committee - Russ Baggerly, Pete Kaiser, Bill Murphy

From: Jeff Palmer - General Managet\Xf

Subject: Review of Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration - Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Project

Attached for your review is the Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) for the Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Project. (Attachment A)

This Project involves replacing the force-main pipeline between the Santa Ana Lift Sta tion #1 and manhole H-21 -54. The pipeline to be replaced is approximately 1,600 feet long.

There are some oak trees along the Project site that will potentially be affected by the construction. The Draft MND identifies measures to be incorporated into the Project to minimize and offset removal of protected trees.

Also attached for your review is Sheet 3 of the design which identifies all of the trees in the Project area and the anticipated affect the Project will have on each tree. I have provided pictures of mature oak trees that have been located at area nurseries and would be available as replacement should any of the existing trees need to be removed. (Attachment B)

If you have any questions or need additional information please call me at 646-5548. ATTACHMENT 'A' DRAFT MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION

SANTA ANA LIFT STATION PIPELINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT SCH NO.

Lead Agency: Ojai Valley Sanitary District 1072 Tico Road Ojai, California, 93023 Contact: Mr. Jeff Palmer (805) 646-5548

Prepared by: Padre Associates, Inc. 1861 Knoll Drive Ventura, CA 93003 (805) 644-2220

June 2013 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration

TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Page MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION ...... MND-1 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose and Legal Authority ...... 1 1.2 Project Proponent and Lead Agency ...... 1 1.3 Project Location ...... 1 1.4 Project Background ...... 1 1.5 Preparers of the Initial Study ...... 2

2.0 PROJECT DESCRiPTION ...... 3

2.1 Project Elements ...... 3

2.2 Construction ...... 3 2.3 Operation ...... 3 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALySiS ...... 9 3.1 Aesthetics...... 9 3.2 Agricultural and Forestry Resources...... 11 3.3 Air Quality...... 12 3.4 Biological Resources...... 17 3.5 Cultural Resources...... 23 3.6 Geology and Soils...... 27 3.7 Greenhouse Gas Emissions...... 29 3.8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials/Risk of Upset...... 32 3.9 Hydrology and Water Quality...... 34 3.10 Land Use and Planning...... 38 3.11 Mineral Resources...... 39 3.12 Noise ...... 40 3.13 Population and Housing...... 43 3.14 Public Services ...... 44 3.15 Recreation ...... 45

Page i Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED) Section Page 3.16 TransportationlTraffic...... 46 3.17 Utilities and Service Systems...... 49 4.0 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ...... 51 4.1 Description of Cumulative Projects ...... 51 4.2 Discussion of Cumulative Impacts ...... 51 5.0 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE ...... 53 6.0 DETERMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT ...... 54 7.0 REFERENCES ...... 55

TABLES Table Page 1. Air Quality Summary - Ojai Station ...... 13 2. Coast Live Oak Removal Summary ...... 21 3. Construction-Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions ...... 31

FIGURES Figure Page

1 Pipeline Replacement Plan ...... 5 2 Site Photographs ...... 7

Page ii Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Mitigated Negative Declaration

DRAFT MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE SANTA ANA LIFT STATION PIPELINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT

PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Ojai Valley Sanitary District (OVSD) provides sanitary sewer service for about 20,000 residents of the City of Ojai and the unincorporated Ojai Valley. OVSD collects and transports wastewater for treatment at the Ojai Valley Wastewater Treatment Plant and disposes of effluent and sludge. One of OVSD's sewer lift stations (Santa Ana Lift Station #1) is located on the south side of Santa Ana Blvd, approximately 600 feet west of the Riverside Road intersection. The Lift Station collects wastewater from residents on the west side of the Ventura River and pumps it across the river to manhole H-21-54. The force-main pipeline between the Lift Station and manhole H-21-54 is approximately 2,550 feet-long and 10 inches in diameter. The Lift Station was upgraded in 1997. The force-main pipeline was installed in the 1960s, and then repaired/reinstalled after a flood in 1969. The terminal 1,490 foot-long segment of the force-main pipeline along the east bank of the Ventura River as well as manhole H-21-54 is in poor condition and in need of replacement. The project involves replacing manhole H-21-54 and the terminal segment of the force main pipeline between the Lift Station and manhole H-21-54. The replacement pipeline alignment would parallel the existing pipeline, mostly within 20 feet. However, the southern terminus would turn east prior to the existing alignment, and parallel the Ojai Valley Trail for approximately 120 feet and terminate at replacement manhole H-21-54. The pipeline alignment was selected to minimize removal of protected trees. The pipeline diameter would be increased from 10 to 12 inches. The new pipeline would be composed of ductile iron, polyvinyl-chloride or high density polyethylene. Affected parcels would be limited to APN 060-0-180-18 and 061-0- 070-01.

PROJECT LOCATION The project site is located immediately west of the community of Oak View, and approximately 3.1 miles southwest of the City of Ojai. The proposed force-main pipeline would be located in a rural residential area just west of the Ojai Valley Trail (see Figure 1). PROJECT PROPONENT Ojai Valley Sanitary District 1072 Tico Road Ojai, California 93023 Contact: Jeff Palmer, General Manager (805) 646-5548

Page MND-1 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Mitigated Negative Declaration

PROPOSED FINDINGS The OVSD has prepared this Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) pursuant to Sections 15070-15075 of the State Guidelines for the Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act. This MND documents OVSD's finding that there are no significant unavoidable adverse impacts associated with the proposed project, and the project does not require the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The attached Initial Study identifies and discusses potential impacts, mitigation measures and residual impacts for each subject area.

PUBLIC COMMENTS In compliance with Section 15073 of the State Guidelines for the Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act, OVSD will accept written comments on the adequacy of the information contained in the Draft MND. Please make sure that written comments reach the OVSD office by 5:00 p.m. on July _, 2013, the close of the public review period. As a result of this project, no significant effects on the environment are anticipated. After the close of the public comment period, OVSD will make appropriate changes to the document pursuant to the comments received and will release a Final MND. Public testimony regarding the adequacy of the MND and Initial Study will be accepted at a public hearing at the OVSD Board room (1072 Tico Road, Ojai) at 6 pm on ____ 2013.

MITIGATION MEASURES Air Quality The following air emissions reduction measures recommended by the Ventura County APCD Air Quality Assessment Guidelines (revised 2003) will be incorporated into the project: • The area disturbed by clearing, grading, earth moving, or excavation operations shall be minimized to prevent excessive amounts of dust. • Pre-grading/excavation activities shall include watering the area to be graded or excavated before commencement of grading or excavation operations. Application of water (preferably reclaimed, if available) should penetrate suffiCiently to minimize fugitive dust during grading activities. • All trucks shall be required to cover their loads as required by California Vehicle Code §23114. • All graded and excavated material, exposed soil areas, and active portions of the construction site, including unpaved on-site roadways, shall be treated to prevent fugitive dust. Treatment shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, periodic watering, application of environmentally-safe soil stabilization materials, and/or roll compaction as appropriate. Watering shall be done as often as necessary and reclaimed water shall be used whenever possible.

Page MND-2 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Mitigated Negative Declaration

• Graded and/or excavated inactive areas of the construction site shall be monitored at least weekly for dust stabilization. Soil stabilization methods, such as water and roll compaction, and environmentally-safe dust control materials, shall be periodically applied to portions of the construction site that are inactive for over four days. If no further grading or excavation operations are planned for the area, the area shall be seeded and watered until plant growth is evident, or periodically treated with environmentally-safe dust suppressants, to prevent excessive fugitive dust. • Signs shall be posted on-site limiting off-road traffic to 15 miles per hour or less. • During periods of high winds (Le., wind speed sufficient to cause fugitive dust to impact adjacent properties), all clearing, grading, earth moving, and excavation operations shall be curtailed to the degree necessary to prevent fugitive dust created by on-site activities and operations from being a nuisance or hazard, either off-site or on-site. The site superintendent/supervisor shall use his/her discretion in conjunction with the APCD in determining when winds are excessive. • Adjacent streets and roads shall be swept at least once per day, preferably at the end of the day, if visible soil material is carried over to adjacent streets and roads. • Personnel involved in grading operations, including contractors and subcontractors, shall be advised to wear respiratory protection in accordance with California Division of Occupational Safety and Health regulations.

• Material stockpiles shall be enclosed, covered, stabilized, or otherwise treated as needed to prevent blowing fugitive dust off-site.

• All project construction and site preparation operations shall be conducted in compliance with all applicable Ventura County APCD Rules and Regulations with emphasis on Rule 50 (Opacity), Rule 51 (Nuisance), Rule 55 (Fugitive Dust) and Rule 10 (Permits Required). Biological Resources The following measures will be incorporated into the project to minimize and offset removal of protected trees. • Protected trees with driplines within the construction impact area shall be protected in place; • The pipeline alignment shall be modified in the field following initial grubbing to avoid protected trees to the extent feasible; • Smaller protected trees (4 inch diameter and less) shall be transplanted to suitable areas at the project site, if they cannot be avoided; • Protected coast live oak trees removed as part of the project shall be replaced on a cross-sectional area basis as required by the Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance; and

Page MND-3 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Mitigated Negative Declaration

• Replacement trees shall be planted within the project site (if allowed by the property owner), a County park or other site to be identified following project initiation. Cultural Resources The following measures will be incorporated into the project to reduce any potentially significant impacts to buried prehistoric cultural resources to a less than significant level. • In the event that archaeological resources are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work within the vicinity of the find must be temporarily suspended until a qualified archaeologist has evaluated the nature and significance of the find. A Chumash representative should monitor any archaeological field work associated with Native American materials.

• If human remains are unearthed, State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 requires that no further disturbance shall occur until the County Coroner has made the necessary findings as to origin and disposition pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 5097.98. If the remains are determined to be of Native American descent, the coroner has 24 hours to notify the Native American Heritage Commission. Land Use/Planning and Transportation The following measure will be incorporated into the project to resolve conflicts with Ventura County General Plan and Ojai Valley Area Plan policies, and prevent project-related peak hour trips on SR 33 that may exacerbate traffic congestion. • The selected construction contractor shall avoid southbound trips on SR 33 between 7 and 8:30 a.m. and northbound trips between 4 and 5:30 p.m. The following measures will be incorporated into the project to minimize temporary impacts to the Ojai Valley Trail.

• The pipeline installation and manhole replacement work areas shall be made safe daily for trail users and re-open at the end of each work day. The Ojai Valley Trail shall be open during weekends and holidays throughout the construction period. • The Ojai Valley Trail shall be restored to pre-construction conditions following pipeline installation and manhole replacement.

Page MNO-4 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Mitigated Negative Declaration

MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING Section 1S074(d) of the State Guidelines for the Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act and Section 21081 .6 of the Public Resources Code, requires the lead agency (OVSD) to adopt a monitoring program to ensure mitigation measures are complied with during implementation of the project. In compliance with these requirements, a Mitigation Monitoring Program Implementation Table is provided below. This Table identifies the timing, monitoring methods, responsibility and compliance verification method for all mitigation measures identified in this MND. Monitoring would be conducted by the OVSD's construction inspectors and qualified specialists under contract to the OVSD.

Page MND-5 SANTA ANA LIFT STATION PIPELINE REPLACE MENT PROJECT MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM -IMPLEMENTATION TABLE

Party Method of Verification of Compliance Implementation Monitoring Monitoring Mitigation Measure Responsible for Compliance Timing Methods Frequency Monitoring Verification Signature Date Remarks

AIR QUALITY

The area disturbed by clearing, grading, The construction OVSD staff will Throughout the Initially and earth moving, or excavation operations monitor will Ojai Valley review construction weekly shall be minimized to prevent excessive observe work in Sanitary District monitoring period thereafter amounts of dust. progress reports

Pre-grading/excavation activities shall include watering the area to be graded or excavated before commencement of The construction OVSD staff will Throughout the Initially and grading or excavation operations. monitor will Ojai Valley review construction weekly Application of water (preferably observe work in Sanitary District monitoring period thereafter reclaimed , if available) should penetrate progress reports sufficiently to minimize fugitive dust during grading activities

The construction OVSD staff will All trucks shall be required to cover their Throughout the Initially and monitor will OjaiValley review loads as required by California Vehicle construction weekly observe work in Sanitary District monitoring Code §23114. period thereafter progress reports

All graded and excavated material, exposed soil areas, and active portions of the construction site, including The construction unpaved on-site roadways, shall be monitor will treated to prevent fugitive dust. inspect OVSD staff will Treatment shall include, but not Throughout the Initially and roadways and Ojai Valley review necessarily be limited to, periodic construction weekly other exposed Sanitary District monitoring watering, application of environmentally- period thereafter soils for reports safe soil stabilization materials, and/or excessive dust roll-compaction as appropriate. generation Watering shall be done as often as necessary and reclaimed water shall be used whenever possible. SANTA ANA LIFT STATION PIPELINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM -IMPLEMENTATION TABLE

Party Method of Verification of Compliance Implementation Monitoring Monitoring Mitigation Measure Responsible Compliance Timing Methods Frequency for Monitoring Verification Signature Date I Remarks

AIR QUALITY (Continued)

Graded and/or excavated inactive areas of the construction site shall be monitored at least weekly for dust stabilization. Soil stabilization methods, such as water and roll-compaction, and The construction environmentally-safe dust control monitor will materials, shall be periodically applied inspect dust OVSD staff will Throughout the Initially and to portions of the construction site that control efforts Ojai Valley review construction weekly are inactive for over four days. If no and order Sanitary District monitoring period thereafter further grading or excavation operations additional reports are planned for the area, the area measures as should be seeded and watered until needed grass growth is evident, or periodically treated with environmentally-safe dust suppressants, to prevent excessive fug itive dust

The construction OVSD staff will Signs shall be posted on-site limiting Throughout the monitor will Initially and Ojai Valley review off-road traffic speed to 15 miles per construction ensure signs are weekly Sanitary District monitoring hour or less period posted and thereafter reports maintained

During periods of high winds (i.e., wind speed sufficient to cause fugitive dust to The construction impact adjacent properties), all clearing, monitor will grading, earth moving, and excavation coordinate with operations shall be curtailed to the site supervisor to OVSD staff will degree necessary to prevent fugitive Throughout the Initially and curtail OjaiValley review dust created by on-site activities and construction weekly construction Sanitary District monitoring operations from being a nuisance or period thereafter operations as reports hazard, either off-site or on-site. The needed during site superintendent/supervisor shall use high wind his/her discretion in conjunction with the periods APCD in determining when winds are excessive

Initiation of Roads affected by visible deposition of The construction Following OVSD staff will ground project-related earth materials shall be monitor will establishment OjaiValley review disturbing swept at least once per day, preferably ensure roads are of construction Sanitary District monitoring construction at the end of the day, swept as needed entrances reports activities SANTA ANA LIFT STATION PIPELINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM -IMPLEMENTATION TABLE

Party Method of Verification of Compliance Implementation Monitoring Monitoring Mitigation Measure Responsible Compliance Timing Methods Frequency for Monitoring Verification Signature Date Remarks

AIR QUALITY (Continued)

Personnel involved in grading operations, including contractors and The construction OVSD staff will subcontractors, should be advised to Throughout the Initially and monitor will Ojai Valley review wear respiratory protection in construction weekly observe work in Sanitary District monitoring , accordance with California Division of period thereafter progress reports Occupational Safety and Health regulations

Material stockpiles shall be enclosed, The construction OVSD staff will Throughout the Initially and covered, stabilized, or otherwise treated monitor will Ojai Valley review construction weekly as needed to prevent blowing fugitive observe work in Sanitary District monitoring period thereafter dust off-site. progress reports

All project construction and site preparation operations shall be conducted in compliance with all The construction OVSD staff will Throughout the Initially and applicable Ventura County APCD Rules monitor will Ojai Valley review construction weekly and Regulations with emphasis on Rule observe work in Sanitary District monitoring period thereafter 50 (Opacity), Rule 51 (Nuisance), Rule progress reports 55 (Fugitive Dust) and Rule 10 (Permits Required).

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

The construction Following OVSD staff will Protected trees with driplines within the Prior to the Ojai Valley monitor will installation of review construction impact area shall be initiation of any Sanitary observe work in protective monitoring protected in place. earthwork District progress measures reports

The pipeline alignment shall be modified The construction OVSD staff will Ojai Valley in the field following initial grubbing to Prior to pipeline monitor will Following initial review Sanitary avoid protected trees to the extent installation observe work in grubbing monitoring District feasible. progress reports

Smaller protected trees (4 inch diameter The construction OVSD staff will Prior to any Ojai Valley and less) shall be transplanted to monitor will Following review excavation within Sanitary suitable areas at the project site, if they observe work in transplantation monitoring the tree dripline District cannot be avoided. progress reports Protected coast live oak trees removed OVSD staff will as part of the project shall be replaced Within 90 days Inspection of oak Initially and Ojai Valley review on a cross-sectional area basis as of the completion tree planting annually for Sanitary monitoring required by the Non-Coastal Zoning of construction sites three years District reports Ordinance. _.- SANTA ANA LIFT STATION PIPELINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM -IMPLEMENTATION TABLE

Party Method of Verification of Compliance Implementation Monitoring Monitoring Mitigation Measure Responsible Compliance Timing Methods Frequency for Monitoring Verification Signature

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (Continued)

Replacement trees shall be planted OVSD staff will within the project site (if allowed by the Within 90 days Inspection of oak Initially and Ojai Valley review property owner), a County park or other of the completion tree planting annually for Sanitary District monitoring site to be identified following project of construction sites three years reports initiation.

CULTURAL RESOURCES

In the event that archaeological resources are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work within the vicinity of the find must be The construction OVSD staff will temporarily suspended until a qualified Throughout the Initially and , inspector will Ojai Valley review archaeologist has evaluated the nature construction weekly observe work in Sanitary District monitoring and significance of the find. A period thereafter progress reports Chumash representative should monitor any archaeological field work associated with Native American materials.

If human remains are unearthed, State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 requires that no further disturbance shall occur until the County Coroner has The construction OVSD staff will made the necessary findings as to Throughout the Initially and inspector will Ojai Valley review origin and disposition pursuant to Public construction weekly observe work in Sanitary District monitoring Resources Code Section 5097.98. If period thereafter progress reports the remains are determined to be of Native American descent, the coroner has 24 hours to notify the Native American Heritage Commission. SANTA ANA LIFT STATION PIPELINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM -IMPLEMENTATION TABLE

Party Method of Verification of Compliance Implementation Monitoring Monitoring Mitigation Measure Responsible for Compliance Timing Methods Frequency Monitoring Verification Signature Date Remarks

LAND USE/PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION

The selected construction contractor The construction OVSD staff will shall avoid southbound trips on SR 33 During the Initially and inspector will Ojai Valley review between 7 and 8:30 a.m. and construction weekly observe timing of Sanitary District inspection northbound trips between 4 and 5:30 period thereafter vehicle trips reports p.m.

The pipeline installation and manhole replacement work areas shall be made The construction OVSD staff will safe daily for trail users and re-open at During the inspector will Daily during Ojai Valley review the end of each work day. The Ojai construction observe work construction Sanitary District inspection Valley Trail shall be open during period near the Trail reports weekends and holidays throughout the construction period.

Once, post- The Ojai Valley Trail shall be restored to The construction OVSD staff will End of construction pre-construction conditions following inspector will Ojai Valley review construction walk-through pipeline installation and manhole ensure the Trail Sanitary District inspection period with replacement. is restored reports contractor Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PURPOSE AND LEGAL AUTHORITY An Initial Study has been prepared for the Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Project, which has been proposed by the Ojai Valley Sanitary District (OVSD), the project proponent. Section 2.0 of this document provides a description of the proposed project. The OVSD is also the "lead agency" for the proposed project. As defined by Section 15367 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, the lead agency is "the public agency which has the principal responsibility for carrying out or approving a project which may have a significant impact on the environment." Based on the findings of the Impact Analysis (Section 3.0 of this Initial Study), it has been determined that the project (with mitigation incorporated) would not have a significant impact on the environment. As such, a Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared for the project in accordance with CEQA.

1.2 PROJECT PROPONENT AND LEAD AGENCY Ojai Valley Sanitary District 1072 Tico Road Ojai, California 93023 Contact: Jeff Palmer, General Manager (805) 646-5548

1.3 PROJECT LOCATION The project site is located immediately west of the community of Oak View, and approximately 3.1 miles southwest of the City of Ojai. The proposed force-main pipeline would be located in a rural residential area just west of the Ojai Valley Trail (see Figure 1). Photographs of the project site are provided as Figure 2.

1.4 PROJECT BACKGROUND The OVSD provides sanitary sewer service for about 20,000 residents of the City of Ojai and the unincorporated Ojai Valley. OVSD collects and transports wastewater for treatment at the Ojai Valley Wastewater Treatment Plant and disposes of effluent and sludge. Located at the south end of the Ojai Valley, the Plant was originally constructed in 1963 with a capacity of 1.4 million gallons per day. It was expanded to the current capacity of 3.0 million gallons per day in 1965. A major rehabilitation and upgrade project, financed by a United States Environmental Protection Agency Clean Water Construction Grant, was carried out in 1982 to bring effluent into compliance with requirements established by the Los Angeles Regional . Water Quality Control Board. In 1997, the Treatment Plant was upgraded to advanced tertiary treatment to include biological nutrient removal to reduce concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in effluent. Tertiary treated effluent is discharged to the Ventura River.

Page 1 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

OVSD's collection system consists of approximately 120 miles of trunk and main sewer lines that transport untreated wastewater to the Treatment Plant. One of OVSD's sewer lift stations (Santa Ana Lift Station #1) is located on the south side of Santa Ana Blvd, approximately 600 feet west of the Riverside Road intersection. The Lift Station collects wastewater from residents on the west side of the Ventura River and pumps it across the river to manhole H-21-54. The force-main pipeline between the Lift Station and manhole H-21 -54 is approximately 2,550 feet-long and 10 inches in diameter. The Lift Station was upgraded in 1997. The force-main pipeline was installed in the 1960s, and then repairedlreinstalled after a flood in 1969. The terminal 1,490 foot-long segment of the force-main pipeline along the east bank of the Ventura River as well as manhole H-21-54 is in poor condition and in need of replacement. Four pipeline alignments were considered during the preliminary design effort to minimize loss of native trees and oak woodland habitat. The selected pipeline alignment would avoid the larger coast live oak and sycamore trees at the site. In compliance with CEQA, this Initial Study has been prepared to evaluate the potential environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation of the proposed replacement pipeline and manhole, and to identify mitigation measures to reduce potentially significant impacts to a less than significant level.

1.5 PREPARERS OF THE INITIAL STUDY This document was prepared for the OVSD by Matt Ingamells and Kristin Hart of Padre Associates, Inc.

Page 2 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 PROJECT ELEMENTS The project involves replacing manhole H-21-54 and the terminal segment of the force main pipeline between the Lift Station and manhole H-21-54. The replacement pipeline alignment would parallel the existing pipeline, mostly within 20 feet. However, the southern terminus would turn east prior to the existing alignment, and parallel the Ojai Valley Trail for approximately 120 feet and terminate at replacement manhole H-21-54. The pipeline diameter would be increased from 10 to 12 inches. The new pipeline would be composed of ductile iron, polyvinyl-chloride or high density polyethylene. Affected parcels would be limited to APN 060-0- 180-18 and 061-0-070-01.

2.2 CONSTRUCTION The replacement force-main pipeline would be installed using open cut (trenched) methods. This includes trenching, stringing pipe along the side of trench, placement of pipe bedding material, pipe segment connection, pipe installation, backfilling and compaction. The pipeline alignment would not cross any roadways; therefore, replacement of pavement is not required. Any excess earth material would be transported off-site for use at other construction sites. Staging of materials and equipment would occur along the alignment, and possibly at the Lift Station site (APN 060-0-180-09). The trench is expected to be only 4 feet deep, and is not expected to encounter any groundwater, due to its distance away from (at least 250 feet) and above the Ventura River streambed. Manhole replacement activities would be conducted concurrently with pipeline installation and include additional excavation at the southern terminus of the pipeline trench. Construction hours would typically extend from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is estimated that the construction period would be approximately 8 weeks. Construction activities would be scheduled to avoid the rainy season, to the extent feasible. In compliance with the California Fish and Game Code and Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, OVSD will avoid take (hunt, catch, pursue, capture, kill) of migratory birds (including raptors). If project-related tree removal or trimming is scheduled for the bird breeding season (March 1 to August 1), a pre-construction bird survey would be completed by a qualified biologist. Any tree removal or trimming directly affecting active nests would be postponed until the young have fledged or the nest is abandoned.

2.3 OPERATION The proposed replacement force-main pipeline and manhole would not require any increase in maintenance activities, or increase the Lift Station maintenance requirements.

Page 3 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

Blank Page Before 11 x 17 Figure

Page 4 May 2013 Project No. 1302-0941

Existing Pipeline Proposed Alignment 1221 Environmental Impact Area N A o 75 150 FEET Source: Phoenix Civil Engineering, USDA NAIP Im age 2012, TIGER Roads, ESRf Online Basemap Coordinate System: NAD 1983 SfafePlane California V FIPS 0405 Feet Notes: This map was created for informational and display purposes only

PIPELINE REPLACEMENT PLAN adre FIGURE 1 associates, Inc. RENGINEERS, GEOLOGISTS & ~ ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement May 201 3 Project no . 1302-0941

a. Manhole H-21-54 adjacent to the Ojai Valley Trail b. Southern portion of pipeline alignment

c. Central portion of pipeline alignment along gravel driveway d. Northern portion of pipeline alignment along gravel driveway

SITE PHOTOGRAPHS FIGURE 2 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS This section provides an analysis of the potential environmental impacts associated with the proposed project. The analysis is organized by environmental issue area (e.g., aesthetics, agricultural resources, air quality, etc.). Each issue area begins with a checklist, which identifies criteria that has been used to assess the significance or insignificance of each potential impact. The checklists used in this Initial Study were taken from the 2011 update to the State CEQA Guidelines prepared by the Association of Environmental Professionals. The checklists also indicate the conclusions made regarding the potential significance of each impact. Explanations of each conclusion are provided after the checklists. In some cases, setting descriptions and recommended mitigation measures are also provided. Finally, residual impacts (i.e., with the implementation of recommended mitigation measures) are assessed, and any issues that are in need of further study (i.e., in an Environmental Impact Report) are identified. Impact classifications used in the checklists are the following: • Potentially Significant Impact. An impact that could be significant, and requires further study in an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). • Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation. An impact that is potentially significant, but can feasibly be mitigated to a less than significant level with measures identified in the Initial Study. • Less than Significant Impact. An impact that would not be significantly adverse. • No Impact. Applied when the project would not result in any impact to a specific issue area.

3.1 AESTHETICS

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? D D D ~ b. Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a D D ~ D state scenic highway? c. Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its D D ~ D surroundings? d. Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or D D D ~ nighttime views in the area?

Page 9 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.1.1 Setting The project site is located on the upper east bank of the Ventura River, adjacent to the Ojai Valley Trail. This area supports mostly native vegetation with scattered coast live oak trees that impart a park-like visual character to the area. The project site is located approximately 1.1 miles east of Lake Casitas, and not within the viewshed of this scenic lake. In the project area, State Route 33 is considered an eligible State scenic highway and Santa Ana Road is considered an eligible County scenic highway (County of Ventura, 1988d). The project site is located approximately 0.4 miles east of Santa Ana Road and 0.4 miles west of State Route 33, and is not visible from these eligible scenic highways. 3.1.2 Impact Analysis a. The project would not involve any new above-ground structures, and would not result in any changes within scenic resource protection areas. In addition, the project site is not visible from any scenic vistas. b. The project site is not visible from any designated or eligible scenic highways. No historic buildings would be affected. Public views of construction areas would be limited to users of the Ojai Valley Trail. Tree removal on the steep slope along the southern portion of the pipeline alignment would be visible from the Trail, and may degrade scenic resources. However, the affected area would be below the Trail and visible from only about 50 linear feet of the Trail, and would not substantially reduce visual character or visual quality along the Trail. c. See b. above. d. The proposed replacement pipeline would be below-ground, while the replacement manhole would be a few inches above-ground. The project would not involve lighting or glare-producing features. Nighttime lighting during pipeline and manhole installation is not anticipated to be required. 3.1.3 Residual Impacts/Further Study The project would not result in significant impacts related to aesthetics. No further study of these issues is required .

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3.2 AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTRY RESOURCES

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and 0 0 0 ~ Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b. Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? 0 0 0 ~ c. Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of forest land or timberland? 0 0 0 ~ d. Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? 0 0 0 ~ e. Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of 0 0 0 ~ Farmland, to non-agricultural use?

3.2.1 Setting The project site is located in "other lands" as designated on the California Department of Conservation Important Farmland Map for Ventura County. The nearest Prime farmland is located approximately 0.4 miles to the southwest of the project site. The nearest other important farmland is designated Statewide Importance and is located 0.7 miles to the southeast. The affected parcel (project site) is zoned Open Space, 20 acre minimum lot size (OS-20ac). There are no agricultural uses or activities in proximity to the project site. The nearest forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code Section 12220) or timberland is located within the Los Padres National Forest, at least 3 miles north of the project site. 3.2.2 Impact Analysis a. The project would not result in the conversion of farmland to non-agricultural use. b. The proposed force-main pipeline replacement would not conflict with the existing open space, or Williamson Act contracts. c. The project is consistent with existing zoning of the affected parcel, and would not cause any forest land or timberlands to be rezoned. d. The project would not result in the loss or conversion of forest land to non-forest uses.

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e. Projects that involve public infrastructure (e.g., roads, power, water, sewer, etc.) in a previously undeveloped area may lead to inducement of population growth and associated conversion of agricultural lands. The proposed project would only relocate an existing wastewater collection facility, with no substantial increase in pipe capacity. No increase in wastewater collection or treatment capacity is planned that could support population growth or agricultural conversion. 3.2.3 Mitigation Measures The project would not result in impacts to agricultural or forestry resources. Therefore, no mitigation is required. 3.2.4 Residual Impacts/Further Study The project would not result in any significant impacts to agricultural or forestry resources. No further study of this issue is required.

3.3 AIR QUALITY

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of [gJ the applicable air quality plan? 0 0 D b. Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air 0 [gJ 0 0 quality violation? c. Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality 0 [gJ D 0 standard (including releasing emissions that exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? d. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial [gJ pollutant concentrations? 0 0 0 e. Create objectionable odors affecting a [gJ substantial number of people? 0 D 0

3.3.1 Setting Ambient Air Quality. Ventura County is located in the South Central Coast Air Basin. The topography and climate of Southern California combine to make the basin an area of high air pollution potential. Ozone and particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM 1O) are of particular interest in Ventura County because State air quality standards for these pollutants are periodically exceeded. The air quality of Ventura County is monitored by a network of six stations, operated by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) and the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD). The Ojai ambient air monitoring station is the closest station to the project site, located approximately 5.6 miles northeast of the project site.

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Table 1 lists the monitored maximum concentrations and number of violations of ozone air quality standards at the Ojai station for the years 2010 through 2012. As shown in Table 1, 1-hour ozone concentrations monitored at the Ojai station exceeded the State standard on five days from 2010 through 2012. Both the Federal and State 8-hour ozone standards were exceeded on several days each year during 2010-2012.

Table 1. Air Quality Summary - Ojai Station Year Parameter Standard 2010 2011 2012 Ozone (03) - parts per million Maximum 1-hour concentration monitored (ppm) 0.099 0.101 0.099 Number of days exceeding State standard 0.09 ppm 1 2 2 Maximum 8-hour concentration monitored (ppm) 0.084 0.086 0.082 Number of days exceeding Federal 8-hour standard 0.075 ppm 7 4 9 Number of days exceeding State 8-hour standard 0.070 ppm 10 12 24 PM2.5 - micrograms per cubic meter Maximum 24-hour value 33.3 17.4 22.2 Number of sampling days above Federal 24-hour standard 35 0 0 0 PM10 - micrograms per cubic meter Maximum 24-hour value 44.9 27.7 17.4 Number of sampling days above State standard 50 0 0 0 Number of sampling days above Federal standard 150 0 0 0

Significance Th resholds. The APCD has prepared Air Quality Assessment Guidelines (2003) for the preparation of air quality impact analyses. The Guidelines indicate that a project would have a significant impact on the environment if it would: • Result in daily emissions exceeding 5 pounds of reactive organic compounds

(ROC) or oxides of nitrogen (NOx) within the Ojai Planning Area; • Cause a violation or make a substantial contribution to a violation of an ambient air quality standard; • Directly or indirectly cause the existing population to exceed the population forecasts in the most recently adopted AQMP; and • Be inconsistent with the Ventura County Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP)

and emit greater than 2 pounds per day ROC or NOx.

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3.3.2 Impact Analysis a. Projects that cause local populations to exceed population forecasts in the Ventura County Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) are considered inconsistent with the AQMP, as exceeding population forecasts can result in the generation of emissions beyond those which have been projected in the AQMP. The proposed force-main pipeline would be a direct replacement for an existing pipeline. Although the pipe diameter would be increased, capacity is primarily dictated by the Lift Station, which would not be modified. Therefore, no substantial increase in wastewater transport capacity would occur. Implementation of the proposed project would not provide any increase in wastewater treatment capacity that could directly or indirectly result in population growth. The proposed project would not have any effect on the population forecasts in the AQMP; therefore, the project would be consistent with the AQMP. b. State 1-hour ambient standards for CO are sometimes exceeded at roadway intersections during times of peak traffic congestion. These localized areas are sometimes called CO "hotspots". Due to the relatively low ambient CO levels and the lack of major intersections in the region , CO hotspots rarely occur. The project would generate only small amounts of traffic, and only during the construction period. Considering the above, the project would not be expected to create or contribute substantially to the violation of CO standards. Fug itive dust would be generated by the operation of heavy equipment and off-road use of motor vehicles during force-main installation. Dust generation from these activities would be considered a significant impact if APCD Rule 51 is violated. Rule 51 states "A person shall not discharge from any source whatsoever such quantities of air contaminants or other material which cause injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to any considerable number of persons or the public or which endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such persons or the public or which cause or have a natural tendency to cause injury or damage to business or property." Mitigation measures have been provided to ensure fugitive dust impacts are reduced to a less than significant level. c. Emissions would be generated during the construction phase by heavy equipment, heavy-duty trucks and construction worker passenger vehicles. This analysis is based on a peak construction day, consisting of pipeline installation. Equipment assumed to be operating during a peak construction day includes a tracked tractor (dozer), a backhoe, an excavator and one wheeled loader. Construction equipment exhaust emissions were calculated using load factors and emission factors from Nonroad Engine and Vehicle Emissions Study (EPA, 1991).

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Peak day construction emissions would be 77.6 pounds NOx and 5.8 pounds ROC. As such, NOx and ROC emissions during peak construction periods would exceed the 5 pounds per day threshold established by the APCD. However, due to the temporary, short-term nature of construction emissions, the APCD does not apply the quantitative emissions thresholds for ROC and NOx to construction activities. The APCD does require that emission reduction measures be implemented during construction to reduce exhaust emissions and fugitive dust generation. Applicable measures have be~n incorporated into the project and are listed in Section 3.3.3. The project consists of a force-main pipeline replacement with no new maintenance requirements, and would not result in the generation of emissions following construction. Therefore, no new long-term emissions would occur. d. See the discussion under part b. above regarding ozone and fugitive dust. e. Several residences are located in proximity to construction work areas, and diesel exhaust odors from construction equipment may be considered objectionable. However, these odors would only occur for a short period (about 8 weeks), and the source (equipment) would change location as pipeline installation progresses. These odors, if considered objectionable, would not affect a sUbstantial number of people. Therefore, odor impacts are considered less than significant. 3.3.3 Mitigation Measures Air emissions reduction measures recommended by the Ventura County APCD Air Quality Assessment Guidelines (revised 2003) will be fully implemented including: • The area disturbed by clearing, grading, earth moving, or excavation operations shall be minimized to prevent excessive amounts of dust. • Pre-grading/excavation activities shall include watering the area to be graded or excavated before commencement of grading or excavation operations. Application of water (preferably reclaimed, if available) should penetrate sufficiently to minimize fugitive dust during grading activities. • All trucks shall be required to cover their loads as required by California Vehicle Code §23114. • All graded and excavated material, exposed soil areas, and active portions of the construction site, including unpaved on-site roadways, shall be treated to prevent fugitive dust. Treatment shall include, but not necessarily be limited to , periodic watering, application of environmentally-safe soil stabilization materials, and/or roll-compaction as appropriate. Watering shall be done as often as necessary and reclaimed water shall be used whenever possible.

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• Graded and/or excavated inactive areas of the construction site shall be monitored at least weekly for dust stabilization. Soil stabilization methods, such as water and roll-compaction , and environmentally-safe dust control materials, shall be periodically applied to portions of the construction site that are inactive for over four days. If no further grading or excavation operations are planned for the area, the area shall be seeded and watered until plant growth is evident, or periodically treated with environmentally-safe dust suppressants, to prevent excessive fugitive dust. • Signs shall be posted on-site limiting off-road traffic to 15 miles per hour or less. • During periods of high winds (Le., wind speed sufficient to cause fugitive dust to impact adjacent properties), all clearing, grading, earth moving, and excavation operations shall be curtailed to the degree necessary to prevent fugitive dust created by on-site activities and operations from being a nuisance or hazard, either off-site or on-site. The site superintendent/supervisor shall use his/her discretion in conjunction with the APCD in determining when winds are excessive. • Adjacent streets and roads shall be swept at least once per day, preferably at the end of the day, if visible soil material is carried over to adjacent streets and roads. • Personnel involved in grading operations, including contractors and subcontractors, shall be advised to wear respiratory protection in accordance with California Division of Occupational Safety and Health regulations. • Material stockpiles shall be enclosed, covered, stabilized, or otherwise treated as needed to prevent blowing fugitive dust off-site. • All project construction and site preparation operations shall be conducted in compliance with all applicable Ventura County APCD Rules and Regulations with emphasis on Rule 50 (Opacity), Rule 51 (Nuisance), Rule 55 (Fugitive Dust) and Rule 10 (Permits Required). 3.3.4 Residuallmpacts/Further Study Air quality impacts of the project would be mitigated to a level of less than significant. No further study of this issue is required.

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3.4 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

Less than Potentially Less than Significant No Would the project: Significant Significant Impact with Impact Impact Impact Mitigation a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special [g] status species in local or regional plans, policies, or 0 0 0 regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, 0 0 [g] 0 regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? c. Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, [g] marsh, vernal pool , coastal, etc.) through direct 0 0 0 removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d. Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory 0 0 [g] 0 wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree 0 [g] 0 0 preservation policy or ordinance? f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community [g] Conservation Plan, or other approved local, 0 0 0 regional, or state habitat conservation plan?

3.4.1 Setting Vegetation. A total of 67 vascular plant species were identified along the pipeline alignment during the biological field survey. Plants observed consisted of 39 (58 percent) native taxa and 28 (42 percent) non-native, naturalized, or ornamental taxa. Note that no attempt was made to identify all landscaping and ornamental species planted in developed areas along the alignment.

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The vegetation of the pipeline alignment can be divided into two plant communities/cover types: coast live oak woodland and disturbed areas. Coast live oak woodland occurs along the southern portion of the alignment, between the Ventura River and the Ojai Valley Trail. This community is dominated by coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) with scattered western sycamore (Platanus racemosa) . The understory varies from annual grasses (Bromus sp.) to poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) and California blackberry (Rubus ursinus). The term "disturbed area" is used to describe the northern portion of the pipeline alignment, which follows a gravel driveway for a recently completed residence. This area supports remnant native coast live oak trees, but also includes landscape plantings such as Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus mol/e). A search of the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) Natural Diversity Database (NDDS) was conducted on May 16, 2013 for reported occurrences of special-status species within the Matilija 7.5' quadrangle map. The following special-status species were identified. Listed species:

• Federal Endangered: southern California steel head ESU (Oncorhynchus mykiss): reported from the Ventura River, approximately 200 feet west of the project site; and

• Federal Threatened: California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytoniJ) : typically found in streams and ponds, reported from San Antonio Creek at State Route 33, 1.1 miles to the south. Non-listed special-status species:

• Mile's milkvetch (Astragalus didymocarpus var. milesianus): typically found in coastal scrub, reported from the general Ojai area;

• Davidson's saltscale (Atriplex serenana var. davidsoniJ): typically found in coastal scrub and coastal bluff scrub, reported from railroad tracks near San Antonio Road, 4.8 miles to the northeast;

• Mesa horkelia (Horkelia ' cuneata ssp. puberula): typically found in chaparral, coastal scrub, and woodland, reported from the Ojai Valley cemetery, 4.7 miles to the northeast;

• California . satin-tail (Imperata brevifolia): typically found in wetlands, reported from near the Matilija Dam, 5.8 miles to the north-northwest;

• Late-flowered mariposa lily (Calochortus fimbriatus) : typically found in chaparral and woodland, reported from Taft Ranch, 3.4 miles to the northwest;

• Chaparral nolina (Nolina cismontana): typically found in chaparral and coastal scrub, reported from Santa Ana Valley, 3.4 miles to the northwest;

• Ojai navarretia (Navarretia ojaiensis): typically found in grasslands, reported from San Antonio Hill, 2.7 miles to the northeast;

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• Saltspring checkerbloom (Sida/cea neomexicana): typically found in chaparral, coastal scrub, desert scrub, coniferous forest, reported from near Oak View, project area;

• Ojai fritillary (Fritil/aria ojaiensis): typically found in chaparral and lower coniferous forest, reported from Stewart Canyon, 5.6 miles to the north northeast; • White-veined monardella (Moardella hypoleuca ssp. hypoleuca): typically found in chaparral, reported from Wills Canyon, 3.7 miles to the north;

• Western pond turtle (Emys marmorata): typically found in streams and ponds, reported from San Antonio Creek at Frasier Street, 1.0 miles to the east;

• Coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma b/ainvilll): typically found in coastal scrub and chaparral, reported from near the Los Robles Diversion Canal, 3.6 miles to the north; • Dulzura pocket mouse (Chaetopidus californicus femoralis) : typically found in chaparral and coastal scrub, reported from Maricopa Highway, 3.9 miles to the north-northeast; and

• Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus): typically found in woodlands and chaparral, reported from Nordhoff Peak, 7.7 miles to the north-northeast. A biological survey was conducted on May 17, 2013 of the anticipated force-main pipeline and manhole construction work area by a qualified biologist to preliminarily identify special-status species and their habitat. Amphibian and reptile species observed were limited to fence lizard. Bird species observed included spotted towhee, California towhee, acorn woodpecker, mourning dove, scrub jay, oak titmouse, dark-eyed junco, European starling, American crow, orange-crowned warbler, house finch, common raven, California quail, northern mockingbird, pacific-slope flycatcher, turkey vulture, white-crowned sparrow, red-shouldered hawk, red-tailed hawk, Cooper's hawk, common yellowthroat and Allen's hummingbird. Mammal species observed included coyote (tracks and scat), pocket gopher, brush rabbit, Audubon's cottontail, fox squirrel and dusky-footed woodrat (nest). Special-status plant species observed in the vicinity of the project site are limited to southern California black walnut, coast live oak and western sycamore trees, no special-status species were observed. Southern California black walnut has been placed on a watch list by the California Native Plant Society due to its limited distribution. Coast live oak and sycamore trees with a girth of at least 9.5 inches (6.5 inches for multiple trunked trees) are protected under the Ventura County Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance. Special-status wildlife species observed in the vicinity of the project site is limited to Cooper's hawk, which has been placed on a watch list by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife because breeding populations have increased over past low levels but data is insufficient to determine trends.

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3.4.2 Impact Analysis a. The proposed project would not adversely affect the aquatic habitat of the Ventura River; therefore, impacts to steel head, western pond turtle or California red-legged frog would occur. Suitable habitat for coast horned lizard (sandy friable soils in shrub-lands) does not occur at the project site, and impacts to this species are not anticipated. Suitable habitat for Dulzura pocket mouse does not occur at the project site, and impacts to this species are not anticipated. Hoary bat is a migratory species that is not known to breed in California. Suitable habitat for this species (cottonwood riparian forest, conifer forest) does not occur at the project site, and impacts are not anticipated. Cooper's hawk was observed at the project site during the biological field survey, and could breed here. The project would result in the loss of approximately 0.54 acres of suitable habitat (coast live oak woodland); however, larger trees in this area would be avoided. Overall, 12 coast live oak trees would be removed, with the largest 10 inches in diameter at breast height. Many hundreds of acres of suitable habitat for Cooper's hawk occurs along the lower Ventura River corridor, and the project-related loss of habitat is not anticipated to substantially affect the local population. Suitable habitat for special-status plant species listed in Section 3.4.1 does not occur at the project site and these species were not observed during the botanical survey. However, two small (5 inches diameter or less) southern California black walnut trees would be removed as a result of installation of the replacement force-main pipeline. This species is considered a plant of limited distribution, but is very common in the Ojai area and not considered rare or endangered under CEQA. Therefore, loss of two small trees would be a less than significant impact. Impacts to protected trees are addressed under part e. below. b. Riparian habitat occurs along the Ventura River near the project site. However, the proposed project would be located at least 350 feet from the nearest riparian habitat and no impacts would occur. Oak woodlands are considered a vital statewide resource as noted in the Oak Woodlands Conservation Act of 2001. The Ventura County Oak Woodlands Management Plan indicates there are about 77,000 acres of oak woodlands/forest in the County, including approximately 47,754 acres of coast live oak woodland. Installation of the proposed force-main pipeline would result in the loss of approximately 0.54 acres of coast live oak woodland; however, the alignment has been selected to avoid the larger trees (see Table 2). Note that this impact would be temporary, as the pipeline would be fully buried and trees adjacent to the alignment would be allowed to extend their canopy over the pipeline, and natural recruitment of protected trees would occur and regenerate lost oak woodland habitat. Due to the small area affected, small number of trees removed (12) and avoidance of oak trees greater than 10 inches in diameter, impacts to coast live oak woodland are considered less than significant.

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c. Federally-protected wetlands likely occur in adjacent portions of the Ventura River. However, force-main and manhole installation activities would occur at least 200 feet away from potential wetlands of the Ventura River, and loss or disturbance of wetlands would not occur. d. The project site is located within the Ventura River floodplain, which provides a habitat corridor linking the Ojai Valley, eastern Santa Ynez Mountains and the Los Padres National Forest to coastal areas. The Ventura River is considered a regionally important wildlife corridor, with a patchy to continuous corridor of riparian vegetation which provides cover and foraging habitat for wildlife moving through the area. Migratory fish (steel head) utilize the Ventura River as a migratory pathway, and for foraging and spawning. Impacts of the proposed project within the floodplain would be temporary, as all facilities would be fully buried and vegetation would be allowed to colonize the pipeline alignment. Impacts to wildlife movement are considered less than significant because substantial loss of vegetation, or barriers to fish and wildlife movement would not occur. e. The force-main pipeline alignment has been selected to avoid oak trees to the extent feasible. However, 12 coast live oak trees would be removed (see Table 2), all relatively small trees. Note that seven of these trees (nos. 6, 7, 7A, 78, 7C, 11, 12) are located along a fence and appear to have been planted (Introduced Protected Tree), and considered landscape features under the Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance. The proposed project would be eligible for a discretionary tree permit under Section 8107-25.7.4 of the Ventura County Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance because tree removal is part of a larger project with public benefits that outweigh the unavoidable negative impacts associated with removal of protected trees. f. The project area is not subject to a habitat conservation plan or other conservation plan.

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Table 2. Coast Live Oak Removal Summary

Tree Diameter Girth of Largest Trunk Protected under Non-Coastal Number (inches, breast height) (inches, breast height) Zoning Ordinance?

3 10 31 Yes

4 6,6 19 Yes

6 8,7 25 Yes

7 7,3,3 22 Yes 7A 5 16 Yes

7B 7,4 22 Yes

7C 7,3 22 Yes

9 3,3,2 9 Yes

11 5,4,4,3,3 16 Yes 12 2,3 9 Yes

13 5,3 16 Yes

13A 4,3 13 Yes

3.4.3 Mitigation Measures The following measures will be incorporated into the project to minimize and offset removal of protected trees. • Protected trees with driplines within the construction impact area shall be protected in place. • The pipeline alignment shall be modified in the field following initial grubbing to avoid protected trees to the extent feasible. • Smaller protected trees (4 inch diameter and less) shall be transplanted to suitable areas at the project site, if they cannot be avoided. • Protected coast live oak trees removed as part of the project shall be replaced on a cross-sectional area basis as required by the Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance. For example, removal of a 6-inch diameter tree (cross-sectional area of 28.27 square inches) would require replacement with nine 2-inch diameter trees (3.14 square inches each, totaling 28.26 square inches). • Replacement trees shall be planted within the project site (if allowed by the property owner), a County park or other site to be identified following project initiation. 3.4.4 Residual Impacts/Further Study Implementation of mitigation measures would reduce impacts to a level of less than significant. No further study of this issue is required.

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3.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES

Less Than Potentially Less Than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in Section 15064.5 of the CEQA D D D C8J Guidelines? b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to Section 15064.5 of the CEQA D C8J D D Guidelines? c. Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique D D D C8J geologic feature? d. Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? D C8J D D

The following information summarizes the findings of an Archaeological Survey Report prepared for the project by Conejo Archaeological Consultants (2013). 3.5.1 Setting Prehistory. The archaeological record indicates that sedentary populations occupied the coastal regions of California more than 9,000 years ago (Greenwood, 1972). Several chronological frameworks have been developed for the Chumash region. One of the most definitive works on Chum ash chronology is that of King (1990). King postulates three major periods: Early, Middle and Late. Based on artifact typologies from a great number of sites, he was able to discern numerous style changes within each of the major periods. The Early Period (8000 to 3350 Before Present [B.P.]) is characterized by a primarily seed processing subsistence economy. The Middle Period (3350 to 800 B.P.) is marked by a shift in the economic/subsistence focus from plant gathering and the use of hard seeds, to a more generalized hunting-maritime-gathering adaptation, with an increased focus on acorns. The full development of the Chumash culture, one of the most socially and economically complex hunting and gathering groups in North America, occurred during the Late Period (800 to 150 B.P.). Ethnography. The Project area lies within the historic territory of the Native American Indian group known as the Chumash. The Chumash occupied the region from San Luis Obispo County to Malibu Canyon on the coast, and inland as far as the western edge of the San Joaquin Valley, and the four northern Channel Islands (Grant, 1978). The Chumash are subdivided into factions based on distinct dialects. The general Project area lies within the historic territory of the Venturefio Chumash. The Venturefio were the southernmost Chumash group, occupying most of the area of present day Ventura County and the southwest corner of Los Angeles County. The name Venturefio is derived from the mission with local jurisdiction, San Buenaventura.

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The Chum ash aboriginal way of life ended with Spanish colonization. As neophytes brought into the mission system, they were transformed from hunters and gatherers into agricultural laborers and exposed to diseases to which they had no resistance. By the end of the Mission Period in 1834, the Chum ash population had been decimated by disease and declining birthrates. Population loss as a result of disease and economic deprivation continued into the next century. Today many people claim their Chumash heritage in Ventura County. In general, they place high value on objects and places associated with their past history, especially burials, grave goods, and archaeological sites. Regional History. In 1769, Gaspar de Portola and Padre Junipero Serra departed the newly established San Diego settlement and marched northward toward Monterey, with the objective to secure that port and establish five missions along the route. Mission San Buenaventura was established in by Padre Serra in 1782, approximately eight miles south of the project site. In 1822, Mexico gained its independence from Spain, and in 1834 the Missions were secularized and their lands granted as rewards for loyal service or in response to an individual's petition. The project site falls within the historic boundaries of the Mexican Land Grant Rancho Ojai, which encompassed 17,717 acres and was granted to Fernando Tico in 1837 (Cowan, 1977). The Mexican period ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which transferred control of California, New Mexico, Texas, and other western territories to the United States. Tico sold his property in 1853 and the American period settlers slowly moved into the valley and agriculture became increasingly important to the local economy. Ojai Valley residents decided to incorporate in 1872 and named their town Nordhoff after a writer who had written a book extolling the virtues of California. Local History. In 1898, the Ventura & Ojai Railway Company finished laying railroad track between Ventura and Nordhoff. Oak View is present on the 1904 USGS Ventura 15' Quadrangle. The 1941 USGS Ventura 15' Quadrangle shows both Santa Ana Road and Prospect Street. However, no development is shown west of the railroad and east of the Ventura River near the project site. Oak View's growth in the late 1940's and early 1950's as a bedroom community was spurred by the development of Ventura's oil industry. Oak View's population in 2010 was 4,066. Native American Consultation. A sacred lands file check was conducted by Dave Singleton of the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) on May 20, 2013. No sacred lands were identified within or adjacent to the Project APE. A project description letter was emailed or mailed on May 16, 2013 to 20 Native American contacts provided by the NAHC. These contacts were requested to respond if they had any cultural resources concerns regarding the proposed project. To date, the only response has been from Mr. Romero of the Santa Ynez Band Tribal Elders Council. Mr. Romero emailed that the Elders Council would not comment on this project as it was outside of their area. Field Studies. Nine archaeological studies have been conducted within a 0.5-mile radius of the project site. When combined, these studies encompass the majority of the current project impact area. None of these studies identified any prehistoric or historic resources within or adjacent to the project site.

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Ms. Maki of Conejo Archeological Consultants conducted an archaeological survey of the project impact area on May 23, 2013. OVSD Inspector Jim Stallings provided access to the private property and pointed out the existing force-main pipeline alignment and the proposed replacement pipeline alignment, both of which were flagged. The objective of the survey was the visual detection of historical resources, including lithic debris and aboriginal artifacts, midden deposits, archaeological features, historical-era foundations or refuse, and other evidence of past land use. The northern half of the proposed pipeline alignment was surveyed using transects spaced at 10 foot intervals and ground surface visibility was good. Soil was sandy with gravel and cobbles. In the southern half of the pipeline alignment, ground surface visibility was poor due to dense vegetation and leaf detritus. Survey methodology within this portion of the alignment was opportunistic and included following existing trails and scraping aside vegetation periodically. The worst ground surface visibility was along the southern portion of the pipeline alignment, which extends down a steep slope. However, this slope is so steep that no cultural resources would be expected to occur there. No prehistoric or historic resources were observed. 3.5.2 Impact Analysis a. The National Register of Historic Places listing does not include any properties within or adjacent to the project site (National Park Service, 2013). No California Historical Landmarks or California Points of Historical Interest are located within or adjacent to the project site (Office of Historic Preservation 2013, 1992). The California State Historic Resources Inventory lists no properties within or adjacent to the project site (Office of Historic Preservation, 2012). No Ventura County Landmarks are located within or adjacent to the project site (County of Ventura, 1988d). Historical archeological site CA-Ven-11 09H represents the first and only railroad spur to enter the Ojai Valley. The Southern Pacific Railroad (SPRR) entered San Buenaventura in 1887, a time when the citrus industry was booming in Nordhoff (Ojai). A spur was built to Nordhoff by early 1898, and a small depot was erected east of South Fox Street and west of Bryant Street for the newly established Ventura River and Ojai Valley Railroad. SPRR took over the line in July 1899. The railroad was abandoned shortly after 1955 following the phasing out of the steam engine by SPRR. The tracks were removed in 1969 following heavy floods. In some locations the old railway berm still remains (Macko 1993). The Ojai Valley Trail was constructed within the abandoned SPRR right-of-way, and parallels the southern terminus of the proposed pipeline alignment. Any remaining features of CA-Ven- 1109H were removed during construction of the Ojai Valley Trail; therefore, pipeline and manhole installation adjacent to the Trail would not further impact this site. b. One archaeological site (CA-Ven-900) was identified within a 0.5 mile radius of the project site and occupies a large open terrace above San Antonio Creek (Wlodarski et al. 1988). Artifacts observed at this site included 14+ millingstones, 2 core tools and a possible flake tool. CA-Ven-900 is located approximately 0.5 miles from the project site and would not be impacted by project implementation.

Page 25 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pi peline Replacement Initial Study

c. A record search was conducted of the on-line collections data base of the University of California Museum of Paleontology. Two specimens were reported from the Ojai area: a bivalve mollusk from the Oligocene period (Macroch/amis magnolia ojaienesis) and an unspecified mammal brain cast from the Miocene period. No paleontological resources or unique geological features have been reported from the immediate project area, and impacts to such resources are not anticipated. d. Based on a records search and archeological field survey, evidence of human burials at the project site has not been recorded. However, floodplains such as the project site are often occupied by Native Americans and unreported burials could be present. 3.5.3 Mitigation Measures Based on the high archaeological sensitivity of the general area, there is a possibility that unknown buried prehistoric resources may be encountered during project-related excavation. Therefore, the following measures are provided to reduce any potentially significant impacts to buried prehistoric cultural resources to a less than significant level. • In the event that archaeological resources are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work within the vicinity of the find must be temporarily suspended until a qualified archaeologist has evaluated the nature and significance of the find. A Chumash representative should monitor any archaeological field work associated with Native American materials. • If human remains are unearthed, State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 requires that no further disturbance shall occur until the County Coroner has made the necessary findings as to origin and disposition pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 5097.98. If the remains are determined to be of Native American descent, the coroner has 24 hours to notify the Native American Heritage Commission. 3.5.4 Residual Impacts/Further Study Implementation of mitigation measures provided above would prevent significant impacts to unreported cultural resources. No further study of this issue is required.

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3.6 GEOLOGY AND SOILS

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Expose people or structures to 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 D D ~ D other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? D D ~ D iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? D D ~ D iv) Landslides? D D ~ D b. Result in sUbstantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? D D ~ D 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 D D ~ D on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? 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 D D D ~ property? e. Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems D D D ~ where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater?

3.6.1 Setting Earth materials present at the project site consist of stream channel deposits and older dissected surficial sediments (weakly consolidated alluvial deposits) (Dibblee, 1987). The entire Southern California region, including the Ojai area, is located within a seismically active area. The Arroyo Parida Fault is located approximately two miles north of the project site and is considered potentially active. The project site is not located within a designed Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zone.

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Liquefaction occurs when strong, cyclic motions during an earthquake cause water saturated soils to lose their cohesion and take on a liquid state. Liquefied soils are unstable and can subject overlying structures to substantial damage. The occurrence of liquefaction is highly dependent on local soil properties, depth to groundwater, and the strength and duration of a given ground-shaking event. The existing force-main pipeline and proposed replacement pipeline alignment are located within a liquefaction hazard area (California Department of Conservation, 2003). Ground shaking is the cause of most damage during earthquakes. The predominant (10 percent probability of exceedance in 50 years) earthquake in the project area is magnitude 6.8. In the project area, the peak ground acceleration with a probability of 10 percent exceedance in 50 years is 0.62 g in alluvium conditions (California Department of Conservation, 2003). Subsidence is generally related to over pumping of groundwater or petroleum reserves from deep underground reservoirs. No recognized subsidence has been identified within the project area (County of Ventura, 1988b). Expansive soils are primarily clay-rich soils subject to changes in volume with changes in moisture content. Shrinking and swelling on soils can damage overlying structures, roadways, and utilities. The project site is not located within an expansive soil zone (County of Ventura, 1988b). Areas of high landslide or mudflow potential are typically hillside areas with slopes of greater than 10 percent. Slopes located 0.5 miles west of the project site have been included in an Earthquake-Induced Landslide Hazard Zone (California Department of Conservation, 2003). 3.6.2 Impact Analysis a. Due to the presence of faults in the immediate project area, the potential exists for fault rupture to damage the proposed force-main pipeline and replacement manhole during the designed life of the project. However, the new force-main would be composed of materials resistant to seismic-related damage, including ground shaking and liquefaction. The southern portion of the pipeline alignment is steep and may be subject to landslides. The proposed project would not result in population growth, or otherwise increase the number of persons exposed to existing seismic hazards. Therefore, seismic-related impacts are considered less than significant. b. The southern portion of the pipeline alignment is located on a steep slope, and subject to soil erosion. However, following pipeline installation, the slope would be stabilized with erosion control fabric and seeded to encourage plant growth. Overall, substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil is not anticipated. c. According to the Ventura County General Plan Hazards Appendix, the affected area is not located in a subsidence zone. As such the project is not expected to be subject to impacts associated with land subsidence. See response a. for discussion of issues related to liquefaction and landslides.

Page 28 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

d. The proposed replacement force-main pipeline and manhole would not be located in areas known to have expansive soils. In any case, engineered backfill would be used to minimize potential damage to project facilities from expansive soils. No impacts associated with expansive soils are anticipated e. Septic waste disposal systems are not proposed as part of this project. No impacts would result. 3.6.3 Mitigation Measures No significant geologic hazards were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not required. 3.6.4 Residuallmpacts/Further Study No further study of this issue is required.

3.7 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

Less Than Potentially Less Than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or directly, that may have a significant D D [gJ D impact on the environment? b. Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of [gJ reducing the emissions of greenhouse D D D gases?

3.7.1 Setting Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are defined as any gas that absorbs infrared radiation in the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases include, but are not limited to, water vapor, carbon dioxide

(C02), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N 20). These greenhouse gases lead to the trapping and buildup of heat in the atmosphere near the earth's surface, commonly known as the Greenhouse Effect. There is increasing evidence that the Greenhouse Effect is leading to global climate change. In 2006, the California State Legislature adopted AB 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 and the Governor signed it into law. AB 32 focuses on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in California. GHG as defined under AB 32 include: water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride. AB 32 requires the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the State agency charged with regulating statewide air quality, to adopt rules and regulations that would achieve GHG emissions equivalent to statewide levels in 1990 by 2020. In addition, two State-level Executive Orders have been enacted by the Governor (Executive Order S-3-05, signed June 1, 2005, and Executive Order S-01-07, signed January 18, 2007) that mandate reductions in GHG emissions.

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From 2007 to 2009, CARB has promulgated several discrete early action measures to reduce GHG emissions prior to the full and final adoption of a plan to reduce aggregate California GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Senate Bill 97, enacted in 2007, amends the CEQA statute to clearly establish that greenhouse gas emissions and the effects of GHG emissions are appropriate for CEQA analysis. It directs the California Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to develop guidelines "for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the effects of greenhouse gas emissions as required by this division." (Pub. Res. Code § 21083.05(a)) In December of 2009, the California Natural Resources Agency adopted amendments to the CEQA Guidelines (Title 14, Cal. Code of Regulations, § 15000 et seq.) to comply with the mandate set forth in Public Resources Code § 21083.05. These revisions became effective March 18, 2010. According to GHG amendments to the CEQA Guidelines, each public agency that is a CEQA lead agency needs to develop its own approach to performing a climate change analysis for projects that generate GHG emissions. A consistent approach should be applied for the analysis of all such projects, and the analysis must be based on best available information. To date, GHG thresholds of significance have not been adopted by Ventura County. On November 8, 2011, the Ventura County APeD completed a staff report assessing several options and strategies in developing GHG thresholds for land development projects. Although no GHG thresholds were developed, the November 8, 2011 staff report stated that consistency with any GHG thresholds developed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is preferred. On December 5, 2008, the SCAQMD governing board adopted interim GHG significance thresholds for industrial sources. This document also included a suggestion of a potential threshold of 3,000 MTC02E (metric tons, CO2 equivalent) for residential/commercial projects. Due to the lack of any other applicable threshold, this value will be used in this Study to determine the significance of the contribution of the project to global climate change. 3.7.2 Impact Analysis a. Force-main pipeline and manhole installation would result in greenhouse gas

emissions, primarily in the form of CO 2 exhaust emissions from the use of off-road construction equipment and on-road vehicles. Emissions of greenhouse gases from construction-related sources were estimated using CARB's EMFAC2007 Model and emission factors provided in the California Climate Action Registry General Reporting Protocol. Estimated emissions of greenhouse gases associated with

project construction are 38.7 metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MTC02E) and are presented below in Table 3. Because emissions would be less than the 3,000

MTC02E per year threshold adopted for this project, short-term greenhouse gas impacts are considered less than significant. Project facilities would not require routine maintenance; therefore, no operational greenhouse gas emissions would result.

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Table 3. Construction-Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions

CO Emissions CH4 Emissions N 0 Emissions Source 2 2 (metric tons) (metric tons) (metric tons) Total GHG Emissions 38.4 0.006 0.001 Global Warming Potential Factor 1 21 310 Total C02 Equivalent Emissions 38.40 0.1 1 0.19 Total Metric Tons of C02 Equivalent 38.7

b. The project would not involve any sources of greenhouse gases that are regulated under the State cap and trade program, or other plans or policies regulating these emissions. 3.7.3 Mitigation Measures No significant impacts related to greenhouse gas emissions were identified. 3.7.4 Residuallmpacts/Further Study No further study of this issue is required.

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3.8 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS/RISK OF UPSET

Less than Potentially Less than Significant No Would the project: Significant Significant Impact with Impact Impact Impact Mitigation a. Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or 0 0 0 [SJ disposal of hazardous materials? b. Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset [SJ and accident conditions involving the release of 0 0 0 hazardous materials into the environment? c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste [SJ within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed 0 0 0 school? 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 0 0 0 [SJ result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? 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, 0 0 0 [SJ would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f. For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for 0 0 0 [SJ people residing or working in the project area? g. Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or 0 0 0 [SJ emergency evacuation plan? h. Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized 0 0 [SJ 0 areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands?

3.8.1 Setting A "hazardous material" means any material that, because of its quantity, concentration, physical or chemical characteristics poses a significant present or potential hazard to human health and safety or to the environment if released into the workplace or environment. Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines indicates that a project would have a significant impact if it would create a public health hazard, expose people to a potential health hazard, or pose a threat to the environment.

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3.8.2 Impact Analysis a. The proposed project would not use, transport or dispose of hazardous materials. A former waste oil storage facility is located approximately 300 feet south of the pipeline alignment. Contaminated soil was reported from this facility to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control in 1983, and a voluntary clean-up was completed in 1994. This case is closed, and the site is currently used as a plant nursery. Force-main pipeline and manhole installation activities would not occur within a hazardous materials site, and are not expected to encounter contaminated soil or result in any hazard to the public or the environment. b. No hazardous materials would be involved with construction and operation of the project. Therefore, upset conditions or accidents would not result in the release of hazardous materials into the environment. c. The nearest school is Sunset Elementary, located 0.36 miles south of the project site. The proposed project would not involve the use of hazardous materials, hazardous waste or result in hazardous air emissions within one-quarter mile of a school. d. No hazardous material sites listed pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 occur in Ventura County. Therefore, the project would not be located within such a site. e. The project area is not identified in an Airport Land Use Plan, nor is it located within two miles of a public use airport. No safety hazards resulting from airport proximity are expected. f. The project site is not located near a private airstrip, and so would not result in a safety hazard. g. The project's components are limited to a buried force-main pipeline and manhole. No change in population or public access would occur. Therefore, no impacts to emergency response would occur. h. The project area includes a mosaic of rural residential properties and native woodlands, and wildland fires may occur. The project site has been mapped as a Moderate Fire Hazard Severity zone by CAL FIRE. The proposed project would not involve any habitable structures or substantially increase the risk of loss, injury or death from wildland fires. 3.8.3 Mitigation Measures The project would not result in significant impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials. Therefore, mitigation is not required. 3.8.4 Residuallmpacts/Further Study The project would not result in significant residual impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials. Further study of this issue is not required.

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3.9 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Significant Significant No Impact Would the project: Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? D D ~ D b. Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the D D D ~ production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or D D D ~ river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? d. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or D D D ~ amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? e. Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned D D D ~ stormwater drainage systems? f. Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? D D D ~ g. Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or D D D ~ other flood hazard delineation map? h. Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect D D D ~ flood flows? i. Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of D D D ~ a levee or dam? j. Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? D D D ~

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3.9.1 Setting The project facilities would be located adjacent to the Ventura River, within the Upper Ventura River Hydrologic Area, of the Ventura River Hydrologic Unit. The California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Los Angeles Region (Regional Board) has jurisdiction over waters between Rincon Point (at the western boundary of Ventura County) and the eastern Los Angeles County line. The Regional Board has developed a Water Quality Control Plan, or "Basin Plan", to protect the quality of surface and groundwaters of the region. The Basin Plan designates beneficial uses of waters within the region, sets narrative and numerical water quality objectives to protect beneficial uses, and describes implementation programs intended to meet the Basin Plan objectives. As recorded at the Casitas Vista Road gauging station, surface flow in the Ventura River is perennial. Surface flows in the dry season are typically less than 10 cubic feet per second (cfs) at this station. Peak flows at this station in most years exceed 10,000 cfs, with the highest flow (58,000 cfs) recorded in 1969. However, many reaches become dry in the summer, including the reach adjacent to the project site. Beneficial uses established in the Water Quality Control Plan (California RWQCB, 1994) for surface water in the Ventura River are municipal water supply, industrial service water supply, process water supply, agricultural water supply, groundwater recharge, freshwater replenishment, water contact recreation, non-water contact recreation, warm freshwater habitat, cold freshwater habitat, wildlife habitat, rare species habitat (condor refuge), migratory habitat, spawning habitat and wetlands. The reach of the Ventura River (Reach 4) adjacent to the project site is considered impaired, under Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act, due to hydromodification (SWRCB, 2011). A water body is impaired when data indicate that adopted water quality objectives are continually exceeded or that beneficial uses are not protected. The Ventura River Hydrologic Unit is considered to support beneficial uses. Beneficial uses established in the Water Quality Control Plan (California RWQCB, 1994) for groundwater in the Upper Ventura River Hydrologic Area are municipal water supply, industrial service water supply, industrial process water supply, and agricultural water supply. The groundwaters of the Upper Ventura River HydrologiC Subarea are not considered overdrafted. 3.9.2 Impact Analysis a. The project would not result in any discharge of water or waste to surface waters or groundwater aquifers. The pipeline trench would be relatively shallow and would not encounter any groundwater requiring discharge. Since the project would disturb more than one acre of land, a National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) construction storm water permit and Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan would be required. However, standard measures would be implemented during construction derived in part from the California Storm Water Best Management Practices Handbook (2009), which defines the following objectives for construction projects:

Page 35 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

Practice Good Housekeeping; Protect Slopes and Channels;

Contain Waste; Control Site Perimeter, and

Minimize Disturbed Areas; Control Internal Erosion.

Stabilize Disturbed Areas;

These objectives would be included in the implementation of project activities. Thus, Best Management Practices (BMP) that would be implemented at the subject project site and include the following: • Disturbance of soils and vegetation during construction would be minimized to the greatest extent possible. The work area would be clearly flagged to identify its limits. Disturbance of soil or vegetation would not occur beyond these limits. • Access roads, parking areas, soil piles, and areas where bare soil is exposed by construction activities would be watered as needed to prevent off-site transport of dust.

• Washing out of concrete trucks (if any) would be performed off site or in designated areas only. These designated areas would be located at least 50 feet from storm drains, open ditches, or water bodies. A plastic-lined pit (or equivalent containment) would be constructed to collect wash out waste. This material would then be collected and properly disposed of. • Soil piles, debris, and construction materials (e.g., uncured concrete, fuels, paints, building supplies, etc.) would be stored in designated areas where they could not enter drainage features due to spillage or erosion. Absorbent materials would be maintained at construction staging areas to clean up any spills. Any spills that occur would be cleaned up immediately and properly disposed of. • If on-site fueling and maintenance were required, designated areas located away . from drainage courses equipped with secondary containment such as drip pans would be used. • Earthen berms, silt fencing, hay bales, erosion control fabric, sandbag check dams and de-silting basins would be provided and maintained as necessary to minimize erosion from the project site due to surface water runoff. With the implementation of these BMPs, short-term water quality and erosion impacts from construction of the proposed project would be less than significant. Significant long-term impacts would not be expected, as vegetation removal during project construction would be minimal.

Page 36 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

b. The proposed project would use small amounts of potable water during pipeline and manhole installation for dust control and soil compaction, and would be supplied by local fire hydrants. This water would be provided by the Casitas Municipal Water District, which supplies the region from surface water (Coyote Creek, Ventura River) and supplemental groundwater. The amount of water used would be small (a few thousand gallons) and temporary (about 8 weeks) and would not adversely affect groundwater supplies. c. The proposed new force-main pipeline and manhole would not be located within the floodway of the Ventura River or affect any other drainages, or otherwise alter drainage patterns or cause substantial erosion or siltation. d. The proposed project would not alter existing drainage patterns, or cause flooding. Impervious surfaces would not be created, thus increases in surface water runoff from the area would not result. e. The project would not involve any increase in impervious surfaces, and no change in run-off volumes would occur. The project would not adversely affect existing or planned storm water drainage systems. f. There are no other aspects of the project that could result in the substantial degradation of water quality. g. The project would not involve the construction of any housing. h. Based on review of the Flood Insurance Rate Map (panel 06111 C0568E, effective January 20, 2010), the northern 1,100 feet of the proposed force-main pipeline would be located within the 100-year floodplain (1 % annual chance of inundation). However, the pipeline would be buried, with no new fill within the 1DO-year floodplain. Therefore, the project would not impede or redirect floodwaters, or cause an increase in floodwater elevation. i. See part h. above regarding flooding. A portion of the pipeline alignment is located within the Matilija Dam inundation hazard zone. However, the proposed project would not result in an increase in the number of persons or structures exposed to this hazard. j. Tsunamis are large-scale sea waves produces by tectonic activities along the ocean floor. Seiches are freestanding or oscillatory waves associated with large enclosed or semi-enclosed bodies of water. As the project site is not located near the ocean or any large enclosed or semi-enclosed bodies of water, the project is not subject to any impacts of this nature. Debris and mudflows are typically a hazard experienced in the floodplains of streams that drain very steep watersheds. The proposed force main pipeline and manhole would be located primarily in relatively level areas, and would not be exposed to debris or mud flow hazards. 3.9.3 Mitigation Measures No significant impacts related to hydrology or water quality would result from the project. Therefore, no mitigation is required.

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3.9.4 Residuallmpacts/Further Study No significant residual impacts related to hydrology or water quality would result from the project. No further study of this issue is required.

3.10 LAND USE AND PLANNING

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Physically divide an established community? D D D rg] b. Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local D rg] D D coastal program , or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c. Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community D D D rg] conservation plan?

3.10.1 Setting Current land use along the pipeline alignment is open space and rural residential, with one single-family residence located nearby. Other residences are located along the Ojai Valley Trail on a terrace above the floodplain. Affected parcels include: • APN 060-0-180-18: northern portion of pipeline alignment, zoned Open Space, minimum 20 acre parcel size (OS-20 ac); and • APN 061-0-070-01: southern portion of pipeline alignment and manhole replacement area, zoned Rural-Exclusive, minimum 2 acre parcel size (RE-2 ac).

3.10.2 Impact Analysis a. All proposed facilities would be buried and would not involve the construction of any roads, barriers, or facilities that could potentially physically divide an existing community. No impact of this nature would result. b. The project would be subject to the policies of the Ventura County General Plan and Ojai Valley Area Plan. The proposed project would conflict with Policy 4.2.2-4b of the Ventura County General Plan and Policy 4.1.2-3b of the Ojai Valley Area Plan because it would add construction traffic to a roadway (SR 33) that currently functions below an acceptable Level of Service (LOS). c. See Section 3.4.2.f.

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3.10.3 Mitigation Measures Transportation-related mitigation measures for policy conflicts are provided in Section 3.16.3. No additional mitigation is required. 3.10.4 Residuallmpacts/Further Study Mitigation measures provided would offset significant land use and planning impacts. No further study of this issue is required.

3. 11 MINERAL RESOURCES

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Result in the loss or availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to 0 0 0 ~ the region and the residents of the state? b. Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific 0 0 0 ~ plan or other land use plan?

3.11.1 Setting Aggregate is the only locally important mineral resource , and is defined as construction grade sand and gravel. The proposed force-main pipeline alignment is located in an area mapped MRZ-3a (may contain significant aggregate deposits) (California Division of Mines and Geology, 1993). No aggregate production sites are located in the project vicinity. The Ventura County General Plan Resources Appendix has determined that there is a sufficient supply of aggregate to meet local demand for the next 50 years. Therefore, no project would have a significant impact on the supply of aggregate resources. However, any land use proposed to be located in or adjacent to a known aggregate resource area, or adjacent to a principal access road to an existing aggregate mining or processing operation may have an impact on mineral resources. Determinations of significance require a case-by-case determination based on the type of land use proposed and its location relative to aggregate resource areas and production facilities. 3.11.2 Impact Analysis a. The proposed replacement force-main pipeline and manhole would not be located in a mineral resource area, and would not hamper the extraction of such resources in the region. Therefore, no impacts to such resources would occur as result of project implementation. b. The nearest mineral resource recovery site is the Ojai Quarry, located approximately 6.0 miles north of the project site. The proposed project would not adversely affect the availability of these mineral resources.

Page 39 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.11.3 Mitigation Measures No impacts to mineral resources would result from the project. Therefore, no mitigation is required. 3.11.4 Residual Impacts/Further Study The project would not result in any impacts to mineral resources. No further study of this issue is required.

3.12 NOISE

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise D D [8J D ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b. Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive ground borne vibration or D D [8J D groundborne noise levels? c. A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above D D D [8J levels existing without the project? d. A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise leyels in the project vicinity D D [8J D above levels existing without the project? 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 [8J or public use airport, would the project D D D expose people . residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f. For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people [8J residing or working in the project area to D D D excessive noise levels?

3.12.1 Setting Noise is generally defined as unwanted or objectionable sound. Noise levels are measured on a logarithmic scale because of physical characteristics of sound transmission and reception. Noise energy is typically reported in units of decibels (dB). Noise levels diminish (or attenuate) as distance to the source increases according to the inverse square rule, but the rate constant varies with the type of sound source. Sound attenuation from point sources such as industrial facilities is about 6 dB per doubling of distance. Heavily traveled road with few gaps in traffic behave as continuous line sources and attenuate at 3 dB per doubling of distance. Noise from more lightly traveled roads is attenuated at 4.5 dB per doubling of distance.

Page 40 Ojai Valley Sanitary District San t a Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

Sources of noise in the project area consist primarily of traffic on Santa Ana Blvd, other local roadways and State Route 33. However, the use of landscaping maintenance equipment may be a dominant noise source for short periods. Noise sensitive receptors in close proximity to the project site are limited to two residences; one located approximately 35 feet west of the pipeline alignment and the second 60 feet east of the alignment near manhole H-21-54. Numerous other residences are located to the east along the Prospect Street, Mahoney Avenue and the Ojai Valley Trail. However, these residences are located on a terrace above the project site, which would provide substantial topographic attenuation of noise generated by project related activities. Sig nificance Thresholds. Policy 2.16.2-1 (4) of the Ventura County General Plan provides the following thresholds: Noise generators proposed to be located near any noise sensitive use shall incorporate noise control measures so that ongoing outdoor noise levels received at the noise receptor, measured at the exterior wall of the building do not exceed any of the following standards: • Leq1 H of 55 dBA or ambient noise level plus 3 dBA, whichever is greater, during any hour from 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. • Leq1 H of 50 dBA or ambient noise level plus 3 dBA, whichever is greater, during any hour from 7 p.m. and 10 p.m . • Leq1 H of 45 dBA or ambient noise level plus 3 dBA, whichever is greater, during any hour from 10 p.m. and 6 a.m . General Plan Policy 2.16.2-1 (5) requires construction noise to be evaluated and mitigated in accordance with the Construction Noise Threshold Criteria and Control Plan prepared by Advanced Engineering Acoustics (2005). Based on this document, noise-sensitive receptors include: • Hospitals and nursing homes (sensitive 24 hours/day); • Residences (sensitive during evening and nighttime - 7 p.m . to 7 a.m.); • Hotels and motels (sensitive during evening and nighttime); and • Schools, churches and libraries (daytime and evening, when in use). 3. 12. 2 Impact Analysis a. Construction noise would be generated by heavy equipment and heavy-duty trucks associated with force-main pipeline installation and manhole replacement. However, the proposed project would generate noise only during the construction period. Therefore, the project would not be considered a noise generator for the purposes of General Plan Policy 2.16.2-1.

Page 41 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

Potential noise sensitive receptors are limited to residences, as discussed in Section 3.12.1 . Peak noise levels at the two closest residences associated with pipeline installation were estimated using the Roadway Construction Noise Model developed by the Federal Highway Administration. Predicted peak noise levels are 81.6 dBA Leq at the western residence, and 77.9 dBA Leq at the eastern residence near manhole H-21-54. These levels exceed the County-adopted evening (50 dBA Leq) and nighttime (45 dBA Leq) noise threshold criteria for residences. Construction would be limited to daytime hours (generally 7 a.m. to 4 p.m .). Since construction noise would not occur during evening or nighttime hours, adjacent residences would not be considered noise-sensitive receptors. Therefore, construction noise would be considered a less than significant impact. b. Pipeline installation and manhole replacement would result in some ground-borne noise or vibration at adjacent residences. Due to the small affected area, and short time period (about 8 weeks), these impacts are considered less than significant. c. No additional maintenance of the replacement force-main or manhole would be required, such that no long-term increase in noise levels would occur. d. See the discussion of construction noise in part a. above. e. The project is not located in an area addressed in an Airport Land Use Plan, nor is it within two miles of any public or private airstrips. Therefore, no impacts are expected. f. See the discussion of airstrip-related noise in part e. above. 3.12.3 Mitigation Measures No significant noise impacts would result from the project, therefore no mitigation is required. 3.12.4 Residual Impacts/Further Study The project would not result in significant noise impacts. No further study of this issue is required.

Page 42 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.13 POPULATION AND HOUSING

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or D D D ~ indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b. Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of D D D ~ replacement housing elsewhere? c. Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement D D D ~ housing elsewhere?

3.13.1 Impact Analysis a. The project would not result in the addition of housing to the area, or require additional long-term employees that could result in the increase of population in the area. The project would not result in an increase in the capacity of the existing sewage collection or treatment systems in the area. As such, the project would not result in a direct or indirect increase in population growth of the area. b. No housing would be displaced and construction of replacement housing would not be necessary. c. As people would not be displaced as a result of project implementation, it would not be necessary to provide replacement housing. 3.13.2 Mitigation Measures No impacts to population or housing would result from the project, therefore no mitigation is required. 3.13.3 Residual Impacts/Further Study The project would not result in any impacts to population or housing. No further study of this issue is required.

Page 43 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.14 PUBLIC SERVICES

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services? Fire protection? D D D ~ Police protection? D D D ~ Schools? D D D ~ Parks? D D D ~ Other public facilities? D D D ~ 3.14.1 Impact Analysis a. Police protection services, fire protection services, schools, parks and other public facilities are normally required to be augmented as a result of projects that increase an area's population (e.g., new residential, commercial, and industrial development). The proposed project would not directly or indirectly increase the local population. The proposed new force-main pipeline and replacement manhole would be buried and would not require fire protection or police protection services. Therefore, no impacts to police protection services, fire protection services, schools, parks and other public facilities are expected. 3.14.2 Mitigation Measures No impacts to public services would result from the project. Therefore no mitigation is necessary. 3.14.3 Residual Impacts/Further Study The project would not result in any impacts to public services. No further study of this issue is required.

Page 44 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.15 RECREATION

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial D D D ~ physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b. Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities that might have an D D D ~ adverse physical effect on the environment?

3.15.1 Setting Recreational facilities in the project area include the Ojai Valley Trail (pedestrian, bicycle, equestrian), Lake Casitas Recreational Area, Foster Park and Camp Comfort. The Ojai Valley Trail is located immediately adjacent to manhole H-21-54 and the southern portion of the replacement pipeline alignment.

3.15.2 Impact Analysis a. The project would not directly or indirectly result in population growth, and would not increase the use of existing neighborhood or regional parks, or any other recreational facilities. As such, the project would not result in the accelerated physical deterioration of any recreational facilities. No impact would result. Construction related impacts to the Ojai Valley Trail are addressed under Transportation (Section 3.16). b. The project would not involve the construction or expansion of any recreational facilities. Thus, the project would not have any impacts on the physical environment associated with the construction or use of recreational facilities. 3.15.3 Mitigation Measures No impacts associated with recreational facilities would result from the project; therefore, no mitigation is necessary. 3.15.4 Residuallmpacts/Further Study The project would not result in any impacts to recreational facilities, or to the physical environment through the use or construction of recreational facilities. No further study of this issue is required.

Page 45 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.16 TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel and relevant 0 ~ 0 0 components of the circulation system, including but not limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass transit? b. Conflict with an applicable congestion management program, including, but not limited to level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards 0 0 0 ~ established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c. Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in 0 0 0 ~ substantial safety risks? d. Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible 0 0 ~ 0 uses (e.g., farm equipment)? e. Result in inadequate emergency access? 0 0 0 ~ f. Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease 0 ~ 0 0 the performance or safety of such facilities?

3.16.1 Setti ng The quality of traffic service provided by a roadway system can be described through the Level of Service (LOS) concept. LOS is a standardized means of describing traffic conditions by comparing traffic volumes in a roadway system with the system's capacity. An LOS rating of A-C indicates that the roadway is operating efficiently. Minor delays are possible on an arterial with a LOS of D. Level E represents traffic volumes at or near the capacity of the highway, resulting in possible delays and unstable flow. An LOS of F represents traffic volumes that may result in substantial delays.

Page 46 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Stat ion Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

The project site would be accessed from SR 33, which consists of a four lane freeway between U.S. 101 and Casitas Springs, then becomes a two lane highway from Casitas Springs to its intersection with State Route 150 within the City of Ojai. Based on year 2011 traffic counts compiled by Caltrans, the average annual traffic volume on SR 33 south of the Santa Ana Blvd intersection is 21 ,600 vehicles per day. The two lane segment of SR 33 between Ojai and Casitas Springs is considered to operate at LOS F at peak hour (personal communication, Richard Herrera, Ventura County Transportation Department, 2013). The minimum acceptable LOS for SR 33 is E, such that the two lane segment of SR 33 is considered to operate at an unacceptable LOS. 3. 16.2 Impact Analysis a. The proposed force-main and manhole replacement would not generate long-term vehicle trips, or otherwise adversely affect long-term traffic operations. The project would only generate a small number of vehicle trips (about 20 one-way trips on a peak day) during constru ction, with about 5 trips during peak hour. The small volume and temporary nature (about 8 weeks) of project generated traffic would not contribute to a lowered level of service on public roadways. Project construction traffic would utilize SR 33, which is considered to operate at an unacceptable LOS , and the project would contribute about 5 peak hour trips per day during the short construction period. Project-related traffic (construction) would be northbound in the morning and southbound in the afternoon, which is contrary to commute traffic. However, the Ventura County Initial Study Assessment Guidelines indicate that adding peak hour trips to roadways currently functioning below an acceptable LOS is a potentially significant impact. b. The project area is not subject to a congestion management plan. Impacts relating to LOS are addressed in part a. above. c. Since no public airports or private airstrips are located near the project site, no impacts to such facilities would result from the project. d. The proposed project would not involve any changes to roadways or incompatible uses of existing roadways. However, project-related construction traffic would enter and exit to/from Santa Ana Blvd ., where sight distance is poor due to the steep gradient at this location. However, the construction contractor would develop a traffic control plan for approval by OVSD, which would establish a safe traffic pattern. The traffic control plan would be approved by the Ventura County Public Works Agency Transportation Department 72 hours prior to implementation of any detours or road closures. Implementation of the traffic control plan would prevent significant traffic hazards. e. The proposed project would not require emergency services, or create conditions that would impede emergency access for adjacent land uses.

Page 47 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

f. As discussed in response a. above, the project would result in temporary short-term increases in traffic volumes. However, construction-related traffic would not be of significant levels that would conflict with or impede existing alternative transportation (e.g., mass transit, bicycles, etc.). In addition, the project would not result in permanent obstruction of areas (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks, bicycle lanes, etc.) that support alternative transportation plans, policies or programs. However, the manhole to be replaced and a small portion of the pipeline alignment lies along the Ojai Valley Trail and may require temporary closure of the Trail during project construction. Construction impacts to alternative transportation are considered potentially significant. 3.16.3 Mitigation Measures The following measure shall be implemented to prevent project-related peak hour trips on SR 33 that may exacerbate traffic congestion. • The selected construction contractor shall avoid southbound trips on SR 33 between 7 and 8:30 a.m. and northbound trips between 4 and 5:30 p.m. The following measures shall be implemented to minimize temporary impacts to the Ojai Valley Trail. • The pipeline installation and manhole replacement work areas shall be made safe daily for trail users and re-open at the end of each work day. The Ojai Valley Trail shall be open during weekends and holidays throughout the construction period. • The Ojai Valley Trail shall be restored to pre-construction conditions following pipeline installation and manhole replacement. 3.16.4 Residual Impacts/Further Study No further study of this issue is required.

Page 48 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

3.17 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS

Less than Potentially Less than Significant Would the project: Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation a. Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality D D D ~ Control Board? b. Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the D D D ~ construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c. Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which D D D ~ could cause significant environmental effects? d. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded D D D ~ entitlements needed? e. 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 D D D ~ demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? f. Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the D D ~ D projects solid waste disposal needs? g. Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? D D D ~

3.17.1 Impact Analysis a. The project would not generate wastewater or require additional treatment of existing wastewater. b. No new water or wastewater treatment facilities would be required to serve the proposed replacement pipeline and manhole. c. The project would not require the construction or modification of public storm water drainage facilities. No impacts would result. d. The project would not require a water supply. e. See response b.

Page 49 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

f. The project may generate excess earth material that would be offered for use at local construction sites, and would not be disposed at a landfill. However, the project would generate small amounts of solid waste during the construction period. Any project that generates solid waste would have an impact on the demand for solid waste disposal capacity in Ventura County. The Countywide Siting Element approved by the California Integrated Waste Management Board on June 20, 2001 demonstrates that the approval of extension of the existing Solid Waste Facility Permit for the Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center, combined with the existing permitted capacity of the Toland Road Landfill would provide Ventura County with sufficient disposal capacity beyond the 15 year planning period mandated by State law. Therefore, no individual project would have a significant impact on the demand for solid waste capacity. g. The OVSD complies with all federal, state and local statutes relating to solid waste, and would continue to do so during the operation of the proposed project. As such, no impacts of this type are expected to result. 3.17.2 Mitigation Measures No significant impacts related to public utilities would result from the project, therefore no mitigation is necessary. 3.17.3 Residual Impacts/Further Study The project would not result in significant impacts to utilities or services. No further study of this issue is required.

Page 50 Ojai Valley Sanitary District San t a Ana Lift Station P i peline Replace ment Initial Study

4.0 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Cumulative impacts are defined as two or more individual effects which, when considered together are considerable, or which compound or increase other environmental impacts. Under Section 15064 of the State CEQA Guidelines, the lead agency (Ojai Valley Sanitary District) must identify cumulative impacts, determine their significance and determine if the effects of the project are cumulatively considerable.

4.1 DESC RIPTION OF CUMULATIVE PROJECTS The Ventura County Resource Management Agency pending project list and recently approved project list (dated May 1, 2013) were reviewed to identify other projects that would be implemented in the project area at about the same time. These projects are: • LU11-0052 (Meiner's Oaks): new wireless communication facility; • PL 12-0121 (11730 Creek Road): 10 year extension for an existing equestrian center;

• PL 12-0146 (555 Mahoney Avenue, Oak View) : minor modification to allow the existing commercial kitchen to be leased; • PL 13-0001 (11480 N. Ventura Avenue): construction of a gazebo with vending machines at an existing Starbucks Coffee; • PL 13-0015 (11508 N. Ventura Avenue): legalize existing drive-thru seafood business, add signage; • PL 13-0057 (820 N. Ventura Avenue) : remove expiration date from existing Planned Development Permit 819;

• SD05-0041 (195 Grapevine Road): lot legalization for PM 5616; and • SD12-0002 (955 Burnham Road): subdivision to create 4 parcels, two new residences planned.

4.2 DISCUSSION OF CUMULATIVE IMPACTS 4. 2.1 Aesthetics Tree removal associated with the proposed project would not incrementally contribute to aesthetics impacts of the cumulative projects, because they could not be viewed from the same area. In any case, project-related tree removal would not be highly visible from any public viewing areas. Cumulative aesthetic impacts are considered less than significant. 4. 2.2 Air Quality Construction-related air emissions associated with the proposed project would incrementally contribute to air emissions of the cumulative projects. However, many of the cumulative projects would not involve construction, and it is unlikely that several projects would be under construction at the same time. In addition, emissions reduction measures have been incorporated into the project which would prevent significant cumulative impacts.

Page 51 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

4.2.3 Biological Resources Habitat loss associated with the project would incrementally contribute to loss of protected trees and wildlife habitat of the cumulative projects. However, the project's contribution would not be substantial because protected trees would be relocated or replaced, and loss of wildlife habitat would be negligible. 4.2.4 Cultural Resources The cumulative projects identified in Section 4.1 are primarily located in previously disturbed areas and/or involve minimal ground disturbance, and are unlikely to impact cultural resources. In any case, the proposed preject would incrementally centribute to cumulative impacts to archeological resources. However, mitigatien measures have been previded te reduce the project's impact and incremental cumulative impact to a level of less than significant. 4.2.5 Greenhouse Gas Emissions By their nature and petential global effects, greenhouse gas emissions are a cumulative issue. The propesed project would generate greenhouse gas emissiens during censtruction, which would incrementally contribute to cumulative impacts. However, project emissions would be much less than the adopted threshold, and are censidered less than significant on a cumulative basis. 4.2.6 Water Resources Petential constructien-related discharges te surface waters (primarily associated with storm water run-off) associated with the propesed preject would incrementally centribute te water resource impacts of the cumulative projects. However, many .of the cumulative projects weuld net involve constructien, and it is unlikely that several projects would be under censtructien at the same time. In additien, best management practices have been incerporated into the project which would prevent significant cumulative impacts to surface waters. 4.2.7 Noise Censtruction-related noise asseciated with the cumulative projects would not be additive, because they would not affect the same noise receptors. Cumulative neise impacts weuld be the same as preject-specific noise impacts and less than significant because project-related noise (construction) weuld net .occur after 7 p.m. 4.2.8 Transportation Construction-related traffic on SR 33 associated with the preposed project may incrementally centribute to traffic generated by ether prejects, which weuld result in potentially significant cumulative traffic impacts. However, mitigatien has been provided to aveid preject related and cumulative impacts te SR 33.

Page 52 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

5.0 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE

Less than Potentially Less than Significant MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE -- Significant Significant No Impact Impact with Impact Impact Mitigation 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 o o o 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?

b. Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are o o o considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? c. Does the project have environmental effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on o o o human beings, either directly or indirectly?

a. The proposed project would result in impacts related to aesthetics, air quality, biological resources, unreported buried archeological resources, global climate change, water quality, noise and transportation. However, mitigation measures have been provided to prevent significant impacts to the physical and biological environment. b. The mitigated project would not result in significant cumulative impacts. c. Transportation facilities may be adversely affected by construction-related traffic. Project construction may result in the temporary closure of the Ojai Valley Trail. However, mitigation measures have been provided to prevent significant transportation impacts.

Page 53 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

6.0 DETERMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT

On the basis of this evaluation:

[ ] I find the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION should be prepared.

[X] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant impact on the environment, there will not be a significant effect with the implementation of mitigation measures described in this Initial Study. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION should be prepared.

[ ] I find the proposed project, individually and/or cumulatively, MAY have a significant effect on the environment and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.

Signature of Person Responsible for Administering the Project Date

Page 54 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

7.0 REFERENCES Advanced Engineering Acoustics. 2005. County of Ventura Construction Noise Threshold Criteria and Control Plan. California Department of Conservation, California Geological Survey. 2003. Seismic Hazard Zone Report for the Mati/ija 7.5-minute quadrangle, Ventura County, California. California Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology. 1993. Update of the Mineral Land Classification of Portland Cement Concrete Aggregate in Ventura, Los Angeles and Orange Counties, California, Part I Ventura County, DMG Open File Report 93-10. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Los Angeles Region. 1994. Water Quality Control Plan, Basin Plan for the Coastal Watersheds of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. California Stormwater Association. 2009. California Stormwater Best Management Practices Handbook. Dibblee, T. Jr. 1987. Geologic Map of the Mati/ija Quadrangle, Ventura County California. Edwards, R.D., D.F. Rabey and R.W. Kover. 1970. Soil Survey, Ventura Area, California. United States Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service in cooperation with University of California Agricultural Experiment Station. Conejo Archaeological Consultants. 2013. Archeological Survey Report of Approximately 2 Acres for the Ojai Valley Sanitary District's Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Project, Oak View, Ventura County, California. Prepared for Padre Associates, Inc. County of Ventura. 1988a. Ventura County General Plan, Goals, Policies and Programs. (With amendments through December 2005). County of Ventura. 1988b. Ventura County General Plan, Hazards Appendix (with amendments through 2011). County of Ventura. 1988c. Ventura County General Plan, Land Use Appendix (with amendments through 2011). County of Ventura. 1988d. Ventura County General Plan, Resources Appendix (with amendments through 2011). County of Ventura. 1996. Ventura County General Plan, Ojai Valley Area Plan, (with amendments through February 5, 2008). County of Ventura, Resource Management Agency. 2007. Ventura County Oak Woodlands Management Plan. Cowan, Robert G. 1977. Ranchos of California. Historical Society of Southern California, Los Angeles, California. Grant, Campbell. 1978. Chumash: Introduction. In Handbook of North American Indians, California, Vol. 8. Edited by Robert F. Heizer, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C.

Page 55 Ojai Valley Sanitary District Santa Ana Lift Station Pipeline Replacement Initial Study

Greenwood, Roberta S. 1972. 9,000 Years of Prehistory at Diablo Canyon, San Luis Obispo County, California. San Luis Obispo County Archaeological Society Occasional Paper No.7. King , Chester. 1990. The Evolution of Chumash Society: A Comparative Study of Artifacts Used in the Social Maintenance of the Santa Barbara Channel Islands Region Before A.D. 1804. Garland Publishing, Inc., New York. Macko, Michael. 1993. CA-Ven-1109H Site Record. On file at the South Central Coastal Information Center, CSU Fullerton. Moratto, Michael. 1984. California Archaeology. Academic Press, San Diego, California. National Park Service. 2011 . National Register Information System, Index by Ventura County, California. http://nrhp.focus.nps.gov/natreshome.do. Office of Historic Preservation, California Department of Parks and Recreation. 1992. California Points of Historical Interest, Sacramento, California Office of Historic Preservation. 2013. California Historical Landmarks, Ventura County. http://ohp.parks.ca.gov/listed resourcesl?view=county&criteria=42. Office of Historic Preservation. 2012. Directory of Properties in the Historic Property Data File for Oak View, April 5, 2012. State of California, Department of Conservation. 2010. Important Farmland Map, Ventura County. State of California Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). 2011. 2010 California 303(d) List of Impaired Waters. Ventura County Air Pollution Control District. 2003. Air Quality Assessment Guidelines. Wlodarski, R, J. Romani, D. Larson & A. Nathan. 1988. CA-Ven-900 Site Record. On file at the South Central Coastal Information Center, CSU Fullerton

Page 56 ATTACHMENT '8' KEY EXISTING ALIGNMENT NOTE: NON TOPOGRAPHICALLY SURVEYED TREE LOCATIONS ARE - - PREFERRED ALIGNMENT APPROXIMATE, IDENTIFIED, NOT IMPACTED TOO SMALL TO MEET ORDINANCE CRITERIA POTENTIALLY RELOCATED, POTENTIALLY REPLACED NOTED IN IMPACT AREA, EFFORT MADE TO PROTECT IN PLACE SURVEYED TREE 6 FIELD LOCATED TREE

PREPARED 81': PHOENIX C IVIL ENGINEERING, INC. OJAI VALLEY SANITARY DISTRICT 4532 TELEPHONE ROAD, SUITE 113 VENTURA, CA 93003 (805) 658-6800 VERIFY SCALES BAR IS ONE INCH ON ORIGINAL ORA IIlNG 't SANTA ANA LI FT STATION PIPELINE 20' 10' "'~.20' 40' 6- 30-14 I REPLACEMENT 01 I' I 60214- EXP. ~ IF NOT ONE INCH ON lHlS SHEET, SCALE IN FEET REVISED CONCEPT LAYDlJT ,132/13 ADJUST SCALES ACCORDINGLY DESCRIPTION R.C.E. 0An: SHEET 3 ~'': V t LEY e RE ST T R E E COMPAN ~ ... The Tree Growing' Tr" MoY i" ~ Company

2 ,~ VALL Eye RES T T R E E COM P } • The Tree Growing & ree Moving Company

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4 V L I EY CREST T The Tree Growln'9 & Tree Movtng Company

5 6 ~ ,~ VALLEY CRES T TREE CO~IPA • The Tree Gro.·.lng & nee Moving Company

ITEM # 4 Memorandum

Ojai Valley Sanitary District

June 25, 2013

To: CEQA Review Committee - Russ Baggerly, Pete Kaiser, Bill Murphy

From: Jeff Palmer - General Manager ~

Subject: Architectural Design Review - Treatment Plant Security Gate Replace ment

Attached is the elevation plan for the replacement of a perimeter gate at the Treatment Plant facility. This elevation plan shows two design options for the new gate.

The existing gate is chain-link and was the access point for theft of a District truck sev eral months ago.

Both design options are of solid material reducing visibility into the plant site; Option 2 has the added security of barbed wire at the top.

Review and discuss the option that will best fit the District's needs.

If you have any questions or need additional information please call me at 646-5548. T.S. WELDED GATE

REID MEASURE ALl. AND ORDER CUT-TO AT PANELS FROM MANUF. WELD TABS FOR ATTACHMENT T2 ROOF PANEl. COLOR: METAllIC SILVER MS METAL SALES (600) 762-7953

OPTION 1 -INSIDE ELEVATION

~rIZED PIPE WELDED GATE

GUIDE RAIL

REID MEASURE ALl. OPENINGS----~ AND ORDER CUT-TO AT PANELS FROM MANUF. WElD TABS FOR ATTACHMENT 7/6" CORRUGATED WALL., 24 GA. COLOR: GALVANIZED loiS METAL SALES (600) 762-7953 OPTION 2 -INSIDE ELEVATION JORDAN, GILBERT &BAIN OJAI VALLEY SANITATION LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC.

GATE OPTIONS 3350 LOMA VISTA ROAD, VENTURA CA 93003 SCALE: 1/4" =1'-0" (805) 642-3641 FAX (805) 642-9614