COASTAL CONSERVANCY

Staff Recommendation September 25, 2008

CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION

File No. 08-073-01 Project Manager: Michelle Jesperson

RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorization to disburse up to $1,400,000 to the East Bay Regional Park District for the acquisition of the approximately 333-acre Chaparral Spring property for open space, wildlife and habitat preservation, public access, and limited agricultural uses.

LOCATION: Near Marsh Creek Road and Morgan Territory Road, City of Clayton, Contra Costa County

PROGRAM CATEGORY: San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy

EXHIBITS Exhibit 1: Project Location and Site Maps Exhibit 2: Map of Conservation Easement Area and Trails Exhibit 3: Photographs Exhibit 4: Project Letters

RESOLUTION AND FINDINGS: Staff recommends that the State Coastal Conservancy adopt the following resolution pursuant to Sections 31160-31165 of the Public Resources Code: “The State Coastal Conservancy hereby authorizes disbursement of an amount not to exceed one million four hundred thousand dollars ($1,400,000) to the East Bay Regional Park District (“EBRPD”) to acquire the approximately 333-acre Chaparral Spring property (the “property”, Assessor’s Parcel numbers 078-040-009, 078-040-011, 078-070-026, and 078-280-002) for open space, wildlife, and habitat preservation, public access, and limited agricultural uses. This authorization is subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to disbursement of any Conservancy funds for the acquisition, EBRPD shall submit for review and approval of the Executive Officer of the Conservancy: a. All relevant acquisition documents, including but not limited to the appraisal, escrow instructions, title reports and documents of title necessary to the purchase of the property.

Page 1 of 8 CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION

b. A signing plan acknowledging Conservancy funding, the design and placement of which is approved by the Executive Officer. 2. EBRPD shall pay no more than fair market value for the property acquired, as established in an appraisal approved by the Executive Officer. 3. EBRPD shall permanently dedicate the property to for open space, wildlife, habitat preservation, public access and limited agricultural uses by recording an offer to dedicate (“OTD”) or other instrument acceptable to the Executive Officer.” Staff further recommends that the Conservancy adopt the following findings: “Based on the accompanying staff report and attached exhibits, the State Coastal Conservancy hereby finds that: 1. The proposed project is consistent with the current Project Selection Criteria and Guidelines. 2. The proposed authorization is consistent with the purposes and objectives of Chapter 4.5 of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code, Sections 31160-31165, regarding the San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program.”

PROJECT SUMMARY: Staff requests authorization to disburse up to $1,400,000 to the EBRPD for the acquisition of the 333-acre Chaparral Spring property located in the City of Clayton in Contra Costa County. Chaparral Spring contains environmentally sensitive habitats for several special status species. It also has significant recreational opportunities, protects agricultural and provides other public benefits. The property is located in between EBRPD’s 1,030-acre Clayton Ranch to the east and Mount Diablo State Park to the south and is the single most important parcel in a strategic wildlife, open space and recreational corridor between Mount Diablo State Park and EBPRD- owned Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, located to the northeast of Clayton Ranch, because it is the only undeveloped parcel in the area with physical and topographical connections across Marsh Creek Road to Mt. Diablo State Park. In addition to this, there is a cattle tunnel connection across the road that can provide for future public access between Chaparral Springs and other protected lands across Marsh Creek Road. As a result, the property provides many new opportunities for public access including extending existing trails like the 30-mile Diablo Trail from Mount Diablo State Park through Chaparral Spring and Clayton Ranch to create a new 60-mile Diablo Grand Loop Trail.

Situated adjacent to the northeastern boundary of Mount Diablo State Park, Chaparral Spring is a strategic part of a landscape-level effort to protect Mount Diablo. The property is a critical piece to completing over 140 square miles of protected open space lands between around Mount Diablo, Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve and Marsh Creek-Morgan Territory that would ensure complete protection of wildlife habitat corridors. The property also includes the headwaters of Mount Diablo Creek, most of which is protected in public ownership and spans the watershed boundaries of the Mount Diablo Creek and Marsh Creek Watersheds. Under EBRPD ownership, Chaparral Spring will be combined with Clayton Ranch to create a new 1,363-acre regional preserve that is separate and distinct from Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, with a focus on wildlife corridors and regional trail connectivity. This new preserve

Page 2 of 8 CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION would serve multiple cities including Clayton and Concord, as well as the entire East Bay.

Conservancy funds for Chaparral Spring would be used to transfer the property from Save Mount Diablo (SMD), a locally based non-profit land conservation organization, to EBRPD. SMD originally acquired the Chaparral Spring property in 1994 entirely with private funding, in order to secure the strategically important property that faced development pressure at the time. From the time of purchase, SMD intended to transfer the property to the appropriate land management entity as the SMD does not have the mission, capacity or financial resources to manage the property for the long-term nor to provide access for the public. After years of stewardship, SMD is ready to transfer Chaparral Spring to the EBRDP, who is now willing to assume responsibility for its management and public access. Under EBRPD ownership, Chaparral Spring will be permanently protected, properly managed and stewarded, and made available for public use. SMD is currently working to protect other lands in the area of Mount Diablo, Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve and the Morgan Territory and will be able to use the funds from this purchase to preserve additional lands in the area.

The property is currently grazed, and helps to support the ranching economy of the area. Ranching exists on other nearby private lands in the corridor. SMD was able to take advantage of Williamson Act Exchange funds several years ago by placing an agricultural conservation easement supporting grazing on 150 acres of the property. Consistent with the terms of the easement, SMD currently maintains a lease agreement with a local rancher for cattle grazing within the easement area. To protect habitat quality and sensitive resources, the number of cows allowed to graze on the property is currently limited to approximately 26. EBRPD plans to continue the lease with the local rancher with the goal of balancing agricultural use with the protection of environmentally sensitive habitat areas and wildlife. The agricultural easement requires that no new trails or roads be built in the easement area; existing roads and trails in the easement area as depicted in Exhibit 2 will be maintained for public use.

SMD currently conducts a heritage tree and grove adoption program on the property to support the operational expenses of Save Mt. Diablo’s Land Program, which includes occasional access to the property for program participants. SMD will continue to conduct property tours until the property is opened to the public under EBRPD management; however the Heritage Tree Program will not continue on this property after transfer of ownership. EBRPD will open the property to the public once the Master Plan is complete for a new park unit that would combine the Clayton Ranch and Chaparral Spring properties.

The EBRPD, established in 1934, is a diverse land and water management agency comprising nearly 100,000 acres containing 65 regional parks, recreational areas, wildernesses, shorelines, ecological preserves, and land bank areas, as well as more than 1,000 miles of trails. EBRPD’s area of jurisdiction covers 1,745 square miles in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Most of the District’s nearly 100,000 acres of parklands are wildlands—natural areas which provide watershed, open space, and habitat for plants and animals as well as opportunities for outdoor recreation. EBRPD is responsible for protecting all wildlife in the parks, managing non-native and feral animals, and cooperating with other land managers to address wildlife management issues on a regional scale. As such, EBRPD is a qualified and an appropriate agency to assume ownership and management of the Chaparral Spring property.

Page 3 of 8 CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION

Site Description: Chaparral Spring is a visually spectacular 333-acre property located north of Marsh Creek Road and adjacent to Mount Diablo State Park (see photos in Exhibit 3). It is adjacent to EBRPD’s 1,030 acre Clayton Ranch, and together these properties cross Keller Ridge into upper Irish Canyon, a property recently protected by SMD and EBRPD efforts. Chaparral Spring is the saddle between Mount Diablo and Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, historically known as “the Divide” between the Marsh Creek and Mount Diablo Creek Watersheds, and has canyons draining in every direction. Chaparral Spring offers expansive vistas as the land rises from 1000 to 1600 feet in elevation.

Habitats at Chaparral Spring include annual grassland, oak savannah, blue oak woodland, chaparral, broadleaf evergreen forest, deciduous forest, ponds and riparian corridors. The property is dominated by grassland, blue oak woodland and a chaparral filled canyon; of these habitat types, blue oak woodland is a major habitat that is under-protected. Seventeen significant special status species inhabit the property: the threatened California tiger salamander and Alameda whipsnake; Cooper's hawk, sharp-shinned hawk, golden eagle (special status); and 12 rare plant species including two endemic to the Mt. Diablo region (Mt. Diablo sunflower and Mt. Diablo globe lily). The property expands the benefits of preserving the neighboring 1,030 acres at Clayton Ranch, which includes several more special status species such as the California red- legged frog. SMD drained a stock pond on the property to remove exotic fish and enhance native amphibian habitat. The property’s myriad of canyons serve as critical wildlife corridors linking the entire Mount Diablo and Marsh Creek-Morgan Territory area to Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. Many species reach their northern limit at Mt. Diablo and at Black Diamond Mines; protecting this property will help keep those two habitat areas intact.

Project History: The transfer of the Chaparral Spring property to EBRPD is part of an on-going effort between EBRPD, SMD, and the California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to expand this significant wildlife area and recreation corridor between Mt Diablo State Park and the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. The Conservancy, in cooperation with community members and the area’s legislative representatives, has supported this effort. For example, in 1997, the EBRPD negotiated three acquisition options with the Clayton Ranch property owners, covering the entire 1,031-acre ranch. Key to securing these options and acquisition price was the agreement to honor a phased acquisition schedule. In 2000, the Conservancy provided final funding to the EBRPD for the third and final options for acquisition of the last 331 acres of the property. Chaparral Spring adjoins the Clayton Ranch property and together, these properties offer the one of best opportunities for the creation of a continuous wildlife habitat and recreation corridor between Mt. Diablo State Park and the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. PROJECT FINANCING:

The appraised fair market value of the Chaparral Springs property is $1,634,000. SMD is selling the property as a bargain sale to EBRPD for $1,400,000 and making up the difference through its own fundraising. SMD raised $134,000 in private funds from the J.M. Long Foundation ($50,000), Cowell Foundation ($50,000), Weeden Foundation ($20,000), B.T. Rocca Foundation ($11,650), and California Native Plant Society ($2,000), and contributed over $100,000 of their own funds to cover the difference between the fair market value and the sale price.

Page 4 of 8 CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION

Coastal Conservancy $1,400,000 Total Project Cost $1,400,000

EBRPD will contribute in-kind services to this project by assuming responsibility for the planning, stewardship, and management of Chaparral Spring property. EBRPD estimates that the initial planning and CEQA analysis for the property will cost approximately $200,000, plus approximately $100,000 for infrastructure development (i.e. staging area, trail improvements) that may be necessary to open the area to the public. The estimated cost to maintain a recreation area of this sort will be $25,000 - $50,000 per year. These costs can be considered a non-state “in-kind” matching contribution from EBRPD for this project.

Staff anticipates using the fiscal year 07/08 appropriation to the Conservancy from the “Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2006” (Proposition 84) (Public Resources Code Sections 75001 et seq.) to fund this acquisition. This funding source may be used for the protection of bays, coastal waters and lands, pursuant to the Conservancy’s enabling legislation, Chapter 4.5 of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code. The acquisition of the Chaparral Spring property by EBRPD will protect natural habitat values within San Francisco Bay Area watersheds of Mount Diablo Creek and Marsh Creek. In addition, as discussed below, the project is consistent with Chapter 4.5 of Division 21.

Proposition 84 also requires that, for acquisition projects that protect natural resources, the Conservancy assess whether the project meets at least one of the criteria specified in Section 75071. The proposed acquisition satisfies four of the five specified criteria:

1) The property links to existing protected areas with other large blocks of protected habitat. The linkage serves to connect existing protected areas, facilitate wildlife movement and botanical transfer, and results in sustainable combined acreage. 2) The project will contribute to the long-term protection of and improvement to the water and biological quality of the streams, aquifers and terrestrial resources within Mount Diablo Creek and Marsh Creek watersheds. 3) The Chaparral Spring property supports relatively large areas of blue oak woodland, an “under-protected” major habitat type. 4) Non-state funds are contributing toward the acquisition of this property such that SMD is able to sell the property for less than the fair market value.

Finally, as required by Section 75701, Conservancy staff has submitted to the Resources Agency and has posted on the Conservancy’s website an explanation as to how the proposed acquisition meets the criteria of that section.

CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY’S ENABLING LEGISLATION:

The proposed project is consistent with the provisions of Chapter 4.5 of Division 21 of the Public

Page 5 of 8 CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION

Resources Code, Sections 31160-31165, which authorizes the Conservancy to award grants in the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area to help achieve stated goals. Specifically, the proposed project, located entirely within the San Francisco Bay Area, supports the achievement of the goals as stated in Section 31162 and Section 31163 described in more detail below. Consistent with Section 31162(a), the project will improve public access around the bay including ridgetops and open spaces, as part of a regional trail system consistent with locally and regionally adopted master plans and consistent with the rights of property owners. The proposed transfer of the Chaparral Spring property to the EBRPD will provide new open space that will eventually link and extend a regional system of trails from Mount Diablo State Park to Black Diamond Regional Preserve.

Under Section 31162(b), the Conservancy is mandated to protect and enhance natural habitats and connecting corridors, scenic areas, watersheds, and other open space resources of regional importance. The Chaparral Spring acquisition will permanently protect exceptional scenic viewsheds and portions of the Mount Diablo Creek and Marsh Creek watersheds. The acquisition will protect wildlife habitat that supports numerous special status species, including vital corridor habitat.

Consistent with Section 31162(c), the project will assist in implementation of the EBRPD’s Master Plan for Black Diamond Regional Preserve, the Contra Costa County General Plan and the City of Clayton’s Marsh Creek Specific Plan.

The project is consistent with Section 31162(d) in that it will provide open space and natural areas that are accessible to urban populations in eastern Contra Costa County and throughout the San Francisco Bay area from a network of nearby state highways, including Interstate 680 and the Highway 4.

This project was evaluated in a manner consistent with the intent and criteria specified in Section 31163(c) in that: (1) the acquisition is included in the EBRPD’s Master Plan and is consistent with the Contra Costa County General Plan and City of Clayton Mash Creek Specific Plan; (2) it will serve a regional constituency as an important part of scenic open space for the East Bay region and is easily accessible to recreational visitors from the Bay area; (3) it can be implemented in a timely way in that acquisition is estimated to close by the end of the 2008 calendar year; and (4) it provides an opportunity to provide public access that could be lost if the property is not transferred to EBRPD.

CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY’S 2007 STRATEGIC PLAN GOAL(S) & OBJECTIVE(S): Consistent with Goal 10, Objective D of the Conservancy’s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will protect 333 acres of uplands, wildlife habitat, connecting corridors, scenic areas, and other open-space resources of regional significance through the nine Bay Area counties. Consistent with Goal 11, Objective C of the Conservancy’s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will increase the amount of lands accessible to the public or provide corridors for trails. Consistent with Goal 12, Objective B of the Conservancy’s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will protect approximately 150 acres of rangeland in the nine Bay Area counties.

Page 6 of 8 CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION

CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY’S PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA & GUIDELINES: The proposed project is consistent with the Conservancy’s Project Selection Criteria and Guidelines, last updated on September 20, 2007, in the following respects:

Required Criteria 1. Promotion of the Conservancy’s statutory programs and purposes: See the “Consistency with Conservancy’s Enabling Legislation” section above. 2. Consistency with purposes of the funding source: See the “Project Financing” section above. 3. Support of the public: The project is supported by Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher, Senator Tom Torlakson, Assemblyman Mark DeSaulnier, Contra Costa Supervisor Federal Glover, City of Clayton Mayor Gregory Manning, Save Mt Diablo, the California Native Plant Society and many community and local residents of Contra Costa County (see Exhibit 4). 4. Location: This project is located in the City of Clayton in Contra Costa County, one of the nine Bay Area Counties. 5. Need: Without Conservancy funding, EBRPD will not be able to purchase the property which will allow the public to have access to the property and ensure the long-term stewardship and management of the property for wildlife habitat, open space and agriculture. 6. Greater-than-local interest: Chaparral Spring is a strategic additional to the network of lands already owned by the EBRPD in the area because if its location adjacent to Mt. Diablo State Park. This property provides a crucial wildlife corridor between Mount Diablo State Park and Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, as well as key trail connections in current and proposed regional trails. The property also includes the headwaters of Mount Diablo Creek; therefore, it is important for watershed protection of the central Contra Costa region.

Additional Criteria 7. Urgency: SMD has owned and managed the property for almost 15 years; however, SMD does not have the capacity for long-term management of the property nor managing public access. The sooner that EBRPD can take over operations and maintenance of the property, the sooner the land will be open to the public to enjoy. 8. Resolution of more than one issue: The acquisition of the Chaparral Spring property by EBRPD will: make this land available for recreation and education, habitat protection and restoration; protect agricultural land and the watershed; and provide trail connections between population centers and public facilities. 9. Leverage: See the “Project Financing” section above.

Page 7 of 8 CHAPARRAL SPRING ACQUISITION

10. Readiness: EBRPD is poised and ready to purchase the property. EBRPD recently acquired the neighboring Clayton Ranch property and together, EBRPD will be able to provide extensive public access and recreation opportunities between these two properties. 11. Realization of prior Conservancy goals: See “Project History” above. 12. Return to Conservancy: See the “Project Financing” section above. 13. Cooperation: This project represents a collaborative effort between EBRPD, SMD and other organizations to preserve and conserve a vital property in the region. SMD initially acquired the Chaparral Spring property in the early 1990’s to protect it from the threat of suburban residential growth and infrastructure projects to the east of Mount. Diablo. SMD is seeking to transfer the property to EBRPD so that the property can be made available for public access and EBRPD can provide long term management of the land.

COMPLIANCE WITH CEQA: The acquisition of Chaparral Spring is categorically exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it consists of the acquisition of interest in land to preserve existing natural conditions and to allow some continued agricultural use (14 Cal. Code of Regulations Section 15325). Staff will file a Notice of Exemption following Conservancy authorization.

Page 8 of 8 Exhibit 1: Project Location and Site Maps

Project Location

Exhibit 1: Project Location and Site Maps

Mt. Diablo to Black Diamond Mines Open Space Corridor

0.5 , ,"J;:t~..~'/1; -, Ii' EBRpm4~RocI:"7-

k ~moMiPond

/---' -_J-/ '''', -' ,. .,., ,~- l1li / "Ii"-", k \ j ,...... !!:i ~J).I;-~ ~'-''-~' ~ ~!I ;'C.,; " '. ~ "II ~ ~,.- ~

.;p:.;b'-i ~"" n 't~' ---~

,4

..;

~.-"/

- .:..-:=;-'

;I 1

~j , ' 4, t ., . \~¥'>" £ t '"""-j!."-'" 75' -~">."" ir~ i".-+'.''. ~1

YI ,"'"""\, ~..a . Exhibit 1: Project Location and Site Maps

i =: ~ -=:~~ ~=: ~~ '.... ~ ~ ~ ~ ' ~ <~ t: ~ 1i ~\J~ ~~ =< ~

, l< '(-

t

-. .t!

?

- Exhibit 2: Map of Conservation Easement Area and Trails

Disclaimer: Boundary and property lines shown on this map do not represent a boundary or property line survey. The East Bay EBRPD Parklands BLACK DIAMOND MINES Regional Park District makes no representation as to the accuracy of said property lines (or any other lines), and no Chaparral Spring Property liability is assumed by reason of reliance thereon. Use of this REGIONAL PRESERVE Other Open Space map for other than its intended purpose requires the written East Bay consent of EBRPD. Regional Park District Clayton Ranch / Conservation Easements Environ Rev & Major Roads GIS Applications August 18, 2008 Chaparral Spring Property Unpaved Roads and Trails 0 285 570 1,140 Feet t:/bstone/mxd projects/landacq/ Upaved Chaparrel Spring Trails cn_chaparral-spring_CoastConserv.mxd Scale 1 : 10000

Save Mt. Diablo 078-040-009

CLAYTON

EBRPD

Save Mt. Diablo 078-280-002

CLAYTON Save Mt. Diablo (Conservation 078-040-011 Easement to Ag. Trust of Contra Costa Cty) RANCH (Conservation Easement to Ma Ag. Trust of rsh Cr Contra Costa Cty) eek Ro ad

CCC Water Dist

Save Mt. Diablo M T . D I A B L O 078-070-026

S T A T E P A R K

VICINITY MAP Exhibit 3: Photographs

Chaparral Spring – panoramic (Credit: Stephen Joseph)

Save Mt. Diablo Star-gazing Event (Credit: Scott Hein) Exhibit 3: Photographs

Chaparral Spring (Credit: Stephen Joseph) Exhibit 4: Project Letters

Mr. Douglas Bosco, Chairperson San Francisco Bay Program Coastal Conservanc~ 1330 Broadway, 11t Floor Oakland, CA 94612

Dear Mr. Bosco:

I am writing this letter in support ofthe East Bay Regional Park District's application to the San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program of the Coastal Conservancy. In connection with Save Mount Diablo, East Bay Regional Park District is seeking funding in support of the acquisition ofthe 333-acre Chaparral Spring property located in Contra Costa County.

I am aware Chaparral Spring includes more than a dozen listed and rare species and will help advance the purposes of the East Contra Costa Habitat Conservation Plan. I understand the property is an essential link in the 60-mile Diablo Grand Loop Trail which will circle Mt. Diablo from Walnut Creek to Livermore, Brentwood, Antioch, Pittsburg and back through Clayton to Central County. In addition, Chaparral Spring is the watershed divide between Mt. Diablo and Marsh Creek watersheds, visible throughout Central County and includes spectacular views. Through its acquisition of the Chaparral Spring property, East Bay Regional Park District leaders plan to protect and preserve the space for enjoyment and healthful recreation for our community.

I support this project and hope that you will give the East Bay Regional Park District application full and fair consideration consistent with applicable law and regulations. I trust that you will keep me advised of this program and I look forward to the imE°rtant services that the East Bay Regional Park District will provide for the residents of the 10 Congressional District.

Sincerely, ~~- ELLEN O. TAUSCHER Member of Congress cc: Pat O'Brien, General Manager, East Bay Regional Park District Ronald Brown, Executive Director, Save Mount Diablo

RECEIVED , AUG 122008 COASTALCONSERVANCY OAKLAND,CALIF. Exhibit 4: Project Letters

COMMITTEES STATE CAPITOL RULES P.O. BOX 942849 TRANSPORTATION ~ssemhl\! SACRAMENTO, CA 94249-0011 APPROPRIATIONS (916) 319-2011 LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT FAX (916) 319-2111 HUMAN SERVICES QIalifntuht ~egislafute DISTRICT OFFICE SELECT COMMITTEES 815 ESTUDILLO STREET GROWTH MANAGEMENT, CHAIR MARTINEZ, CA 94553 ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE (925) 372-7990 YOUTH VIOLENCE PREVENTION FAX (925) 372-0934 JOINT COMMITTEE SATELLITE OFFICE RULES MARK DESAULNIER 420 WEST 3rd STREET ASSEMBLY MEMBER, ELEVENTH DISTRICT ANTIOCH, CA 94509 [email protected] www.asm.ca.gov/desaulnier June 13, 2008

Mr. Douglas Bosco, Chairperson San Francisco Bay Program Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 11thFloor Oakland, CA 94612

Re: Grant Application -East Bay Regional Park District - Chaparral Spring Property Acquisition

Dear Mr. Bosco:

East Bay Regional Park District is submitting a grant application to the Coastal Conservancy in the amount of $1,400,000 for the acquisition of the Chaparral Spring property. I support this grant application for the following reasons:

. The Chaparral Spring property offers an outstanding opportunity to permanently preserve a critical animal and plant habitat area of the East Bay and the Mount Diablo area.

. The Chaparral Spring property includes a diversity of habitats-creek ways, grassland, chaparral, woodlands, desert olive scrub, and oak savannah.

. Through the efforts of these public and private entities, the property can be acquired at less than fair market value.

I am hopeful that you will look favorably upon the Park District's grant application. This acquisition is a wonderful example of two organizations working cooperatively to preserve precious resources that will benefit current and future generations of Contra Costa residents. If you have any questions regarding this recommendation, please do not hesitate to contact me at (925) 372-7990.

Very truly yours, \);w& MARK DESAULNIER 11th Assembly District RECEIVED MDS:kmb cc: ,.. ~. J, Project Manager, Coastal Conservancy AUG122008 Mr. Seth Adams, Save Mount Diablo Mr. Pat O'Brien, East Bay Regional Park District OOASTALCONSERVANCY OAKLAND,CALIF. .~,~ Printed on Recycled Paper Exhibit 4: Project Letters

9256026598 Office of Senator Tom Tor 02:09:00 p.m. 09-02-2008 2/2

CAPITOf. OFFI<;' 0'5 'RICT OFFICE STATE CAPITOl.. ROOM 5050 2801 CONCORD BOULEVARD SACRAMENTO. CA 95614 CONCORD. CA 945 I 9 1EL(915) 651.4007 TEL 19251602.6593 FA' 19161 445-2527 C!IalifnrUta~tat£ ~e1tate FAX,9Z51 502-6598 JOIN' C.oVE"""'''' CENTER 420 WEST 3'(0 STREET SENATOR ANTIOCH. CA 94509 APPROPRIATIONS TEL ,9251754.14(;1 r.HAIR TOM TORLAKSON FAX 1:1251 778-5174 STANDING CO"MlnEES SEVENTH SENATE DISTRICT WEST COUNTY SATELLITE OFFICE EOIJCATION 111 CIVIC DRIVE. TRANSPORTATION'" HQUSING HERCULES. CA 94547 TEL Iace, 659.9900 S'LEcr WMMrTTEE SCHOOLS AND COMMUNiTY SteNATOR TORlAKSOM'-SEfI CA GOV CHAIR WWW ""N CA C~)ViT()R' ">

September 2, 2008

Douglas Bosco Chairperson San Francisco Bay Program Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 11thFloor Oakland, CA 94612

Re; East Bay Regional Park District Grant, Chaparral Spring Property Acquisition

Dear Mr. Bosco;

1am writing today to express my strong support for the grant application submitted by the East Bay Regional Park District, in cooperation with Save Mount Diablo, for $1.4million in support of plans to acquire the Chaparral Spring Property.

The Chaparral Spring Property is located on the northeast side of Mount Diablo and east of the City of Clayton in the district I represent. The grant would allow the transfer of 333 acres from Save Mount Diablo to the East Bay Regional Park District's control.

TIlis tTansfer would expand the natural lands corridor between Mount Diablo State Park and the Black Diamond 1vlines Regional Preserve, thereby improving the overall habitat for plants and wildlife in this area. This project is also a great example of a public-private partnership to preserve natura! lands in the East Bay. "Thisproposal also allows for the acquisition of the land for less than appraised value.

Thank you for your consideration of this request. Ifyou have any questions about my support for this project, please contact District Director Craig Cheslog at 925-602-6593or craig,[email protected]_gov.

Sincerely, .,,--- ~ '- I. I OW\. ICir?,( ().M., C;C/v\. Tom Torlakson

cc: Abe Doherty, Project Manager, Coastal Conservancy

~ Exhibit 4: Project Letters Federal D. Glover 315 East Leland Road Pitts burg, CA 94565 Supervisor, District Five (925) 427-8138 Contra Costa County (925) 427-8142 Fax Board of Supervisors (925) 634-5915 Toll Free

June 25, 2008

Douglas Bosco, Chairperson San Francisco Bay Program Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 11thFloor Oakland, CA 94612

Re: Grant Application -East Bay Regional Park District - Chaparral Spring Property Acquisition

Dear Mr. Bosco:

It is my understanding that East Bay Regional Park District, in connection with Save Mount Diablo, is submitting a grant application for $1,400,000 in support of the transfer of 333 acres from Save Mount Diablo to East Bay Regional Park District. The Chaparral Spring property is located on the northeast side of Mount Diablo and east of the City of Clayton.

Being a strong advocate of the conservation of Open Space I whole heartedly support this grant application for the acquisition the Chaparral Spring property because: (1) the transfer will expand the natural lands corridor between Mount Diablo State Park and Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, which will improve the overall plant and wildlife habitat in this area; (2) this project is an exceptional example of the public and private sectors working together to preserve public natural lands in the East Bay; and (3) the property will be acquired for less than appraised value.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

Sincerely,

Suwrvisor Federal D. Glover Disbct V, Contra Costa County RECEIVED cc: AI i J?dllA Project Manager, Coastal Conservancy AUG12 2008

COASTALCONSERVANCY OAKLAND,CALIF.

E-Mail: [email protected] Antioch. Bay Point. Bethel Island. Oakley. Pittsburg Exhibit 4: Project Letters

PAGE 02/B2 09/02/2008 69:57 92567N917 CITY OF CLAYTON

"., .r~~ '" .:\., ~" t'l" A ';', ~~, J5~~, ,"'. ~.' \.':"

(',ty (..,...,,/ ,11!;i~o~t~~ .' F.""Jt418)r.",jtt~rpu'llii71'1r;(,4~.p:'~ ",' C.""'..V 1.M.'''~I'''r., M...". ',,", :.::."-~'-.;;-,,.' 11)1,1

August 28, 2008

Douglas Bosco, Chairperson San Francisco Bay Program Coastal Conservan~r. 1330 Broadway, J jU Floor Oakland,CA 94612

Re: Grant Application -East Bay Regional Park District - Chaparral Spring Property Acquisition

Dear Mr, Bosco:

It is my understanding that East Ba.yRegional Park District, in connection with Save Mount Diablo, is submitting a grant application for $1,400,000 in support of the transfer of333 acres from Save Mount Diablo to East Bay Regional Park District. The ChapatTal Spring pTOpcrtyis located on the northeast side of Mount Diablo and cast of the City of Clayton.

I support this grallt application for the acquisition the Chapmal Spring property because: (1) the transfer will expand tbe natural lands corridor between Mount Diablo State Park and Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, which will improve the overall plant and wildlife habitat in this area; (2) thi$ project is an exceptional example of the public and private sectors working together to preserve pubJic natural lands in the East Bay; and (3) the property will be acquired for Jess than appraised value,

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

Very. ly yours,

/~~~ cc: Abc Doherty, Project Manager, Coastal Conservancy Exhibit 4: Project Letters

Board of Directors Douglas Bosco, Chairperson Malcolm Sproul San Francisco Bay Program President Coastal Conservancy Amara Morrison 1330 Broadway, 11IIIFloor SeCl'etary Oakland, CA 94612 Frank Yarenchik Treamrer' Re: Grant Application - East Bay Regional Park District - Chaparral Spring Burt Bassler Property Acquisition Arthur Bonwell Dana Dornsik Dear Mr. Bosco: Charla Gabert John Gallagher Claudia I-kin East Bay Regional Park District is seeking $1,400,000 ITomthe Coastal Conservancy is Scott Hein Michael Hitchcock support of the acquisition of the 333-acre Chaparral Spring property. The ChapaITalSpring David Husted property is a unique propeliy located in Contra Costa County, in close proximity to Mount Doug Knauer Diablo State Park and adjacent to East Bay Regional Park District's Clayton Ranch property. Allan Prag.;r Save Mount Diablo supports this grant application and is working with East Bay Regional David Sargent David Troll.;r Park District for the successful acquisition of the Chaparral Spring Property. Sharoll Walters Director.I' The Chaparral Spring property is located in the Marsh Creek corridor and is a critical piece in East Bay Regional Park District's goal to create a stretch of preserved land that will connect Sraff Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve with Mount Diablo State Park and a number of Ronald Brown other public open spaces. The property is an essential link in the 60-mile Diablo Grand Loop Executive Direcror' Trail, which will create a regional recreational trail for the public. S.;th Adams Director, Lalld Programs Chaparral Spring is the watershed divide between Mount Diablo and Marsh Creek watersheds Julie Scden and is highly visible ITomthroughout Central Contra Costa County. A variety oflookout Del'e/opment IWallalJer points on the property offer spectacular views of Mount Diablo and the foothills stretching MOllica E. O.;i east of the mountain. Finance & Admillistrath'e Manager The property includes a diverse range of habitats and is home to more than a dozen listed and rarespecies.Acquisitionof thispropertyby EBRPDwillhelp advancethe purposesof the Mailing Address Eastern Contra Costa Habitat Conservation Plan. 1901 Olympic Blvd.. #220 Walnut Creek. CA 94596 Tel: (925) 947-3535 Save Mount Diablo believes that this acquisition is impOliant for conservation efforts in the Fax: (925) 947-0642 East Bay and should be supported. Website HlI'll:saFemllliITldiah!o,o/'g Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

FO/ll/der,I' An/w/' HO/ll!'c!l Afary L. Bowermon V7::t- Ronald Brown Executive Director Exhibit 4: Project Letters

California Native Plant Society East Bay Chapter Rare Plant Committee

August 29, 2008

Douglas Bosco, Chairperson San Francisco Bay Program Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 11thFloor Oakland, CA 94612

Re: Grant Application - East Bay Regional Park District - Chaparral Spring Property Acquisition

Dear Mr. Bosco:

It is my understanding that East Bay Regional Park District, in connection with Save Mount Diablo, is submitting a grant application for $1,400,000 in support of the transfer of333 acres from Save Mount Diablo to East Bay Regional Park District. The Chaparral Spring property is located on the northeast side of Mount Diablo and east of the City of Clayton. As chairperson of the Rare Plant Committee of the East Bay Chapter of the California Native Plant Society I support this grant application for the acquisition of the Chaparral Spring property for the following reasons: . The property supports four plant species listed as rare by the California Plant Society including: 0 big tarplant (Blepharizonia plumosa List 1B) 0 Diablo sunflower (Helianthella castanea List IB) 0 Brewer's western flax (Hesperolinon breweri List IB) 0 needle bedstraw (Galium andrewsii ssp. gatense List 4)

. The property also supports six plant species listed as rare and unusual under the East Bay Chapter's Unusual Plants Program including: 0 eriastrum (Eriastrum pluriflorum) 0 golden fleece (Ericameria arborescens) 0 flowering ash (Fraxinus dipetala) 0 chaparral pea (Pickeringia montana) 0 scrub oak (Quercus berberidifolia) 0 canyon live-oak (Quercus chrysolepis)

. The property supports large stands of chamise chaparral which could be used as suitable reintroduction sites for Mt. Diablo buckwheat (Eriogonum truncatum List IB), which was rediscovered in 2005.

. Chaparral Spring also shares a boundary with the East Bay Regional Park District's Clayton Ranch which allows for contiguity of large blocks of intact native plant communities and other extant rare plant populations. ~~- East Bay Chapter - California Native Plant Society - P.O~Box 5597, Elmwood Station, Berkeley, California 94705 Exhibit 4: Project Letters

Rare Plant Committee

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

Sincerely, ~ Heath A. Bartosh Rare Plant Committee Chairperson East Bay Chapter California Native Plant Society

East Bay Chapter - Rare Plant Committee - Chaparral Spring Letter of Support 2