FINAL PROGRAM ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE CALLEGUAS REGIONAL SALINITY MANAGEMENT PROJECT
SCH NO. 2000101104 EA no. 01-LC-007
Lead Agency:
August 2002
FINAL PROGRAM ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE CALLEGUAS REGIONAL SALINITY MANAGEMENT PROJECT
Prepared for: Calleguas Municipal Water District 2100 Olsen Road Thousand Oaks, California 91360
Prepared by: Padre Associates, Inc. 5450 Telegraph Road, Suite 101 Ventura, California 93003 805/644-2220, 805/644-2050 (fax)
August 2002 Project No. 9902-1761
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION...... 1-1 1.1 DOCUMENT PURPOSE AND LEGAL AUTHORITY ...... 1-1 1.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES/PURPOSE AND NEED ...... 1-3 1.3 SCOPE AND CONTENT ...... 1-4 1.4 RESPONSIBLE AND TRUSTEE AGENCIES ...... 1-6 1.5 MITIGATION MONITORING PLAN...... 1-6 1.6 PROJECT APPROVALS AND PERMITS ...... 1-7 1.7 CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL PROGRAM EIR ...... 1-7 2.0 SUMMARY ...... 2-1 2.1 PROJECT SYNOPSIS...... 2-1 2.2 AREAS OF KNOWN CONTROVERSY...... 2-3 2.3 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND ALTERNATIVES...... 2-3 2.4 COMPARISON OF THE ALTERNATIVES...... 2-3 2.5 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUPERIOR ALTERNATIVE...... 2-5 3.0 PROPOSED PROJECT/PROPOSED ACTION ...... 3-1 3.1 PROJECT LOCATION ...... 3-1 3.2 PROJECT PROPONENT...... 3-1 3.3 PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS...... 3-1 3.4 PHASE I...... 3-12 3.5 PHASE II...... 3-13 3.6 PROJECT CONSTRUCTION...... 3-16 3.7 PROJECT OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE...... 3-21 4.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION ...... 4-1 4.1 ALTERNATIVE BRINE DISPOSAL METHODS ...... 4-2 4.2 ALTERNATIVE PIPELINE ALIGNMENTS ...... 4-4 4.3 ALTERNATIVE OCEAN OUTFALL...... 4-9 5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS...... 5.1-1 5.1 LAND USE...... 5.1-1 5.2 GEOLOGY...... 5.2-1 Page i
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) Page
5.3 AIR QUALITY ...... 5.3-1 5.4 WATER RESOURCES...... 5.4-1 5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES...... 5.5-1 5.6 AGRICULTURE...... 5.6-1 5.7 NOISE ...... 5.7-1 5.8 AESTHETICS...... 5.8-1 5.9 TRANSPORTATION ...... 5.9-1 5.10 RISK OF UPSET...... 5.10-1 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES...... 5.11-1 5.12 SOCIOECONOMICS...... 5.12-1 5.13 INDIAN TRUST ASSETS ...... 5.13-1 6.0 GROWTH INDUCEMENT ...... 6-1 7.0 IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF RESOURCES ...... 7-1 8.0 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION...... 8-1 8.1 PERSONS AND AGENCIES CONSULTED...... 8-1 8.2 SCOPING AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT...... 8-1 8.3 SECTION 7 CONSULTATION UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT .....8-2 8.4 SECTION 106 CONSULTATION UNDER THE NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT ...... 8-2 9.0 SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES/ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS...... 9-1 10.0 LIST OF PREPARERS...... 10-1 10.1 PADRE ASSOCIATES, INC...... 10-1 10.2 CONEJO ARCHEOLOGICAL CONSULTANTS...... 10-1 10.3 BUREAU OF RECLAMATION...... 10-1 11.0 REFERENCES...... 11-1 12.0 DISTRIBUTION LIST...... 12-1 13.0 RESPONSE TO COMMENTS ...... 13-1
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Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Table of Contents
APPENDICES A Notice of Preparation and Initial Study B Responses to Notice of Preparation C Air Quality Emissions Calculations D Noise Model Output
LIST OF FIGURES Page
Figure 2-1 Aerial Photograph of the Phase I Project Area...... 2-7 Figure 3-1 Regional Location ...... 3-3 Figure 3-2 Preferred Pipeline Alignment and Wastewater Input Sources ...... 3-5 Figure 3-3 Segment F-G of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 3-23 Figure 3-4 Segment G-H of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment...... 3-25 Figure 3-5 Segments A-B, B-C of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 3-27 Figure 3-6 Segment C-D of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment...... 3-29 Figure 3-7 Segment D-E of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 3-31 Figure 3-8 Segment E-F of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 3-33 Figure 5.1-1 Existing Land Uses Along Segment F-G of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.1-5 Figure 5.1-2 Existing Land Uses Along Segment G-H of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.1-7 Figure 5.1-3 Existing Land Uses Along Segments A-B, B-C of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.1-9 Figure 5.1-4 Existing Land Uses Along Segment C-D of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.1-11 Figure 5.1-5 Existing Land Uses Along Segment D-E of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.1-13 Figure 5.1-6 Existing Land Uses Along Segment E-F of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.1-15 Figure 5.2-1 Geology of Segment F-G of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment...... 5.2-3 Figure 5.2-2 Geology of Segment G-H of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.2-5 Figure 5.2-3 Geology of Segments A-B, B-C of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment...... 5.2-7 Figure 5.2-4 Geology of Segment C-D of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.2-9 Figure 5.2-5 Geology of Segment D-E of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment...... 5.2-11 Figure 5.2-6 Geology of Segment E-F of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.2-13
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Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Table of Contents
LIST OF FIGURES (Continued)
Figure 5.4-1 Groundwater Basin Map and Location of Monitoring Wells...... 5.4-13 Figure 5.5-1 Habitat Types of Segment F-G of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment...... 5.5-3 Figure 5.5-2 Habitat Types of Segment G-H of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.5-5 Figure 5.5-3 Habitat Types of Segments A-B, B-C of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ... 5.5-7 Figure 5.5-4 Habitat Types of Segment C-D of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment...... 5.5-9 Figure 5.5-5 Habitat Types of Segment D-E of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment...... 5.5-11 Figure 5.5-6 Habitat Types of Segment E-F of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.5-13 Figure 5.6-1 Important Farmlands Along Segment G-H of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.6-5 Figure 5.6-2 Important Farmlands Along Segment G-H of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.6-7 Figure 5.6-3 Important Farmlands Along Segments A-B, B-C of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment...... 5.6-9 Figure 5.6-4 Important Farmlands Along Segment C-D of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.6-11 Figure 5.6-5 Important Farmlands Along Segment D-E of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.6-13 Figure 5.6-6 Important Farmlands Along Segment E-F of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.6-15
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Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Table of Contents
LIST OF TABLES Page
Table 2-1 Summary of Significant Unavoidable Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures...... 2-9 Table 2-2 Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...... 2-12 Table 2-3 Comparison of the Alternatives ...... 2-31 Table 3-1 Anticipated Wastewater Contributions to the Project Pipeline System...... 3-7 Table 3-2 Summary of the Preferred Pipeline Alignments ...... 3-12 Table 4-1 Summary of Alternative Pipeline Alignments...... 4-5 Table 5.3-1 Ambient Air Quality Standards ...... 5.3-2 Table 5.3-2 Air Quality Standard Exceedances ...... 5.3-4 Table 5.3-3 Activity Assumptions used for Total Emissions Estimates ...... 5.3-9 Table 5.3-4 Peak Day Construction Emissions ...... 5.3-10 Table 5.3-5 Annual Construction Emissions for Each Alternative ...... 5.3-10 Table 5.3-6 Operation Emissions ...... 5.3-11 Table 5.4-1 Impaired Waters of the Calleguas Creek Watershed ...... 5.4-6 Table 5.4-2 Beneficial Uses of the Calleguas Creek Watershed...... 5.4-9 Table 5.4-3 Dilution Factors of the Modeled Plume at Ormond Beach ...... 5.4-24 Table 5.4-4 Summary of Modeled Exceedances of Ocean Plan Effluent Limitations at the Ormond Beach Outfall (exceedances in bold)...... 5.4-25 Table 5.4-5 Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for General Water Quality Constituents ...... 5.4-32 Table 5.4-6 Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for Metals ...... 5.4-34 Table 5.4-7 Modeled Surface Flows in the Calleguas Creek Watershed ...... 5.4-38 Table 5.4-8 Dilution Factors of the Modeled Plume at the Oxnard Outfall ...... 5.4-40 Table 5.4-9 Summary of Modeled Exceedances of Ocean Plan Effluent Limitations at the Oxnard Outfall (exceedances in bold) ...... 5.4-41 Table 5.5-1 Sensitive Natural Communities of the Watershed ...... 5.5-21 Table 5.5-2 Definitions of Special-Status Plant Species ...... 5.5-25 Table 5.5-3 Special-Status Plant Species of the Pipeline Alignments...... 5.5-25 Table 5.5-4 Definitions of Special-Status Wildlife Species ...... 5.5-26
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Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Table of Contents
LIST OF TABLES (Continued) Page
Table 5.5-5 Listed Special-Status Wildlife Species of the Pipeline Alignments ...... 5.5-26 Table 5.5-6 Non-Listed Special-Status Wildlife Species of the Pipeline Alignments ..... 5.5-27 Table 5.6-1 Value of Ventura County Crops (in million $) ...... 5.6-4 Table 5.6-2 Important Farmlands Along the Phase I Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.6-19 Table 5.6-3 Important Farmlands Along the Phase II Pipeline Alignment ...... 5.6-20 Table 5.6-4 Important Farmlands Along the Phase I Alternative Pipeline Alignments ... 5.6-23 Table 5.6-5 Important Farmlands Along the Phase II Alternative Pipeline Alignments .. 5.6-25 Table 5.7-1 Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments ...... 5.7-2 Table 5.7-2 Existing Noise Levels in the Project Area ...... 5.7-3 Table 5.7-3 Preferred Alignment: Construction Noise at Sensitive Receptors ...... 5.7-7 Table 5.7-4 Alternative Alignment A: Construction Noise at Sensitive Receptors...... 5.7-9 Table 5.7-5 Alternative Alignments B & C: Construction Noise at Sensitive Receptors . 5.7-10 Table 5.8-1 Scenic Variety Classes...... 5.8-2 Table 5.8-2 Criteria for Rating Sensitivity Levels...... 5.8-3 Table 5.8-3 Visual Condition Rating Guidelines ...... 5.8-3 Table 5.8-4 Aesthetic Ratings for Pipeline Segments ...... 5.8-10 Table 5.9-1 Roadway Physical Characteristics ...... 5.9-2 Table 5.9-2 Level of Service (LOS) Definitions...... 5.9-3 Table 5.10-1 Characteristics of Brine Discharge to Affected Waterbodies...... 5.10-3 Table 5.11-1 Summary of Phase II Cultural Resource Impacts...... 5.11-20
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Calleguas Municipal Water District Regional Salinity Management Project List of Acronyms
LIST OF ACRONYMS ACHP Advisory Council on Historic Preservation ADT Average Daily Traffic (volume) AHPA Archeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974 AL Action Level (California Department of Health Services) APCD Air Pollution Control District APE Area of Potential Effect (cultural resources) AQMP Air Quality Management Plan ARB California Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board ARPA Archeological Resource Protection Act of 1979 BMP Best Management Practice Camarillo WRP Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant Camrosa WRF Camrosa Water District Water Reclamation Facility CCCS Calleguas Creek Characterization Study CDFG California Department of Fish and Game CDMG California Division of Mines and Geology CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CMWD Calleguas Municipal Water District CNEL Community Noise Equivalent Level CNPS California Native Plant Society CO Carbon Monoxide CWA Clean Water Act EA Environmental Assessment EDR Electro Dialysis Reversal EIR Environmental Impact Report EIS Environmental Impact Statement EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FONSI Finding Of No Significant Impact FPPA Farmland Protection Policy Act HDPE High Density Polyethylene LARWQCB Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission
Page vii Calleguas Municipal Water District Regional Salinity Management Project List of Acronyms
LCA Land Conservation Act LOS Level of Service (traffic) DNL/Ldn Day-Night Average Level (noise) M Earthquake magnitude MCL Maximum Contaminant Level MMPA Marine Mammal Protection Act MWTP Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant NAHC Native American Heritage Commission NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NHPA National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service NOEC No Observable Effect Concentration
NOx Oxides of Nitrogen NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyl
PM2.5 Particulate Matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 microns or less
PM10 Particulate Matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 microns or less RO Reverse Osmosis ROC Reactive Organic Compounds RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board SHPO State Historic Preservation Office Simi Valley WQCP Simi Valley County Sanitation District Water Quality Control Plant
SO2 Sulfur Dioxide SR State Route SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board TDS Total Dissolved Solids TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United States Geological Survey UWCD United Water Conservation District VC Visual Condition
Page viii Calleguas Municipal Water District Regional Salinity Management Project List of Acronyms
VCFCD Ventura County Flood Control District VOC Volatile Organic Compounds WQO Water Quality Objective
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1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 DOCUMENT PURPOSE AND LEGAL AUTHORITY 1.1.1 State Requirements The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that local, regional, and State agencies and special purpose districts prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for any discretionary action that may have the potential to significantly affect the quality of the envi- ronment. The Calleguas Municipal Water District (CMWD) has prepared this Program EIR/Environmental Assessment (EA) for the proposed Regional Salinity Management Project to comply with the provisions of CEQA. In accordance with Section 15121 of the State CEQA Guidelines, the purpose of this Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is to serve as an informational document that: "...will inform public agency decision-makers and the public generally of the significant environmental effects of a project, identify possible ways to minimize the significant effects, and describe reasonable alternatives to the project..." This document has been prepared as a Program EIR/EA, due to the uncertainty regarding the precise alignment of pipeline components, the precise composition and flow rate of wastewater and/or brine within the pipeline and the implementation schedule for various components. As stated in Section 15158 of the CEQA Guidelines, a Program EIR is an EIR that may be prepared on a series of actions “that can be characterized as one large project and are related either: 1. Geographically; 2. As a logical part in the chain of contemplated actions; 3. In connection with issuance of rules, regulations, plans, or other general criteria to govern the conduct of a continuing program; or 4. As individual activities carried out under the same authorizing statutory or regulatory authority and having generally similar environmental effects which can be mitigated in similar ways.” The proposed project is divided into two distinct phases, Phase I is comprised of the proposed pipeline from the Camrosa Water District Water Reclamation Facility to an existing ocean outfall at Reliant Energy’s power plant at Ormond Beach. All other components, including all other pipeline segments, tie-in pipelines for the South Las Posas Basin and Santa Rosa Basin groundwater wells, are part of Phase II. The final selection of precise pipeline alignments and construction methodology for Phase II would be based on subsequent engineering analysis to be performed by CMWD and its consultants, and will require subsequent environmental review consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act and National Environmental Policy Act. However, this EIR/EA addresses all reasonably foreseeable impacts of Phase II, consistent with the level of project detail available.
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The purpose of the EIR/EA is to provide sufficient project-specific impact analysis for Phase I to comply with both California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Phase II is included in this Program EIR/EA because it is a logical extension of Phase I. Future project-specific environmental assessment would be required for Phase II, when assumptions become commitments and fundamental parameters such as the identity, volume and water quality of each potential pipeline contributor are fully identified, and the alignment of pipelines can be finalized. This document is limited to the assessment of environmental impacts associated with construction and operation of the proposed pipeline system. Environmental documentation and compliance with CEQA for water treatment facilities that may ultimately utilize the pipeline system for conveyance of waste brine streams would be the responsibility of the individual facility operators. Due to the uncertainty of the ultimate need for, treatment characteristics, flow rate and identity of treated water users, assessment of impacts associated with water treatment facilities would be entirely speculative at this time. Following the completion of preliminary engineering design for Phase II, an initial study would be prepared to determine if a subsequent or supplemental EIR is required pursuant to Sections 15162 and 15163 of the State CEQA Guidelines. In general, a subsequent or supplemental EIR would be required if project implementation has the potential to result in new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of significant impacts identified in the Program EIR/EA. In addition, some components of the project may be implemented independently as a project under CEQA. In this case, a negative declaration may be the appropriate CEQA document. 1.1.2 Federal Requirements CMWD is seeking funding from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) for a portion of the project through Title VXI (Wastewater and Groundwater Study and Facilities Act) of Public Law 102-575. The Act limits the Federal share of the cost of the proposed project to 25 percent of the total cost, excluding operation and maintenance costs. Reclamation’s only involvement in the project would be this financial contribution and the project would be implemented without Reclamation’s contribution. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has also provided grants to the CMWD for general watershed planning studies in support of this project. Reclamation is the lead Federal Agency for the proposed project and is responsible for complying with NEPA. Therefore, this document is prepared as a joint Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment (EIR/EA) to comply with the requirements of both CEQA and NEPA. A joint document is required by Section 3.12.3 of Reclamation’s NEPA Handbook such that “…one document will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.” This joint EIR/EA is used to identify impacts associated with each of the alternatives, which will allow Reclamation to determine if the project qualifies for a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or would require additional analysis as part of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
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CEQA requires the use of the word “significant” to identify environmental impacts that require mitigation and/or must be addressed under a finding of overriding considerations. Under NEPA, the word “significant” identifies an impact that is severe based on context and intensity, and cannot be mitigated to a level of less than significant. Under the EA process, the use of the word “significant” is limited to the FONSI. However, since this EIR/EA is a joint CEQA/NEPA document, the word significant is used to identify impacts significant under CEQA. In compliance with Section 3.12.3 of Reclamation’s NEPA Handbook, any significant residual impact (significant following mitigation) under CEQA is also considered significant under NEPA and would require preparation of an EIS. 1.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES/PURPOSE AND NEED The objectives of the proposed project are: • Enable both public and private water agencies to develop new water sources that at the present time cannot be widely used due to poor quality; • Manage the use of high salinity groundwater and treated municipal wastewater, and • Disposal of brine produced by enhanced water treatment. The project is located in the Calleguas Creek Watershed (Watershed) which faces a number of environmental challenges involving both surface and groundwater resources. Most of the surface waters within the Watershed have been identified by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) as impaired, meaning they do not fully support designated beneficial uses such as water supply or wildlife habitat. A major concern of local agencies and regulators is salt accumulation in soils and water supplies. Most of the groundwater basins in the region contain high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS) and in some cases, high chloride and nitrate levels, which limits their use as a water supply for urban and agricultural uses. TDS is a general indicator of overall water quality and salt loading. High TDS levels are, in part, the result of historic and ongoing use of high TDS surface and groundwater supplies and resultant agricultural return flows, and to a lesser extent, discharges from wastewater treatment plants. Collectively, these contributors recharge local groundwater basins. Continuing production of water from these basins for both domestic and agricultural irrigation needs is concentrating salts to a point where they cannot support the basin’s designated beneficial uses. For example, rising TDS levels can result in a reduction in crop yield and render local groundwater resources unsuitable for potable water needs. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is mandated by the Clean Water Act to establish pollutant allocations (Total Maximum Daily Loads, TMDL’s) for point and non- point sources that discharge to water bodies designated as impaired, including Calleguas Creek and its tributaries. The establishment of a TMDL allocates the amount of a pollutant that can be discharged to a water body, and still meet water quality requirements for designated beneficial uses.
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Concurrently, a broad coalition of local stakeholders have combined their efforts to develop a comprehensive management plan for the Calleguas Creek Watershed. This effort is a public-private alliance to develop an integrated strategy for the sustainable development of the watershed and its resources. The formation of this coalition was driven by a need to resolve water quality, flood control, land use, habitat conservation, and property development issues in the region. Planning of proposed project has been adopted as an early action item by the Calleguas Creek Watershed Management Plan Steering Committee. In response to the need to address increasing salinity levels in the Watershed, CMWD, working with other public water and wastewater agencies, is undertaking the design and construction of a regional project to manage high salinity water use and disposal. The proposed project consists of a pipeline system that would collect treated wastewater and brine concentrates from wastewater treatment plants, groundwater wells (both municipal and agricultural), and industrial operations located within the Calleguas Creek watershed, and convey the effluent to other areas for direct use or an existing ocean outfall. Ocean disposal would allow substantial reductions in the amounts of dissolved salts and other water pollutants that are currently released into Calleguas Creek and its tributaries. This is expected to result in substantial improvements in water quality of affected creeks and groundwater supplies. The proposed project will enable both public and private water agencies to utilize high salinity groundwater that at the present time cannot be widely used due to poor quality. However, with advancements in treatment technologies and reduced costs, opportunities to recover brackish groundwater are becoming cost-effective. Groundwater recovery projects would entail the extraction and treatment of brackish groundwater with reverse osmosis or other type of membrane treatment to remove salt mineral concentrations. Many groundwater basins throughout Ventura County have concentrations of total dissolved solids, sulfates, chlorides and other constituents that either exceed drinking water standards or are unsuitable for other uses such as irrigation of certain agricultural crops (e.g, strawberries and avocados). The proposed project would facilitate disposal of brines associated with new treatment facilities, allowing use of the treated water for beneficial uses and increasing water supply reliability. 1.3 SCOPE AND CONTENT A Notice of Preparation (NOP) and Initial Study were prepared according the State CEQA Guidelines and distributed to responsible and trustee agencies in October 2000 (see Appendix A). CMWD received comment letters in response to the NOP from the following agencies and interested parties (see Appendix B): • California Native American Heritage Commission; • Ventura County Public Works Agency, Transportation Department; • City of Thousand Oaks Public Works Department; • City of Simi Valley; • Howard M. Jones Trustee; • Ventura County Flood Control District; • California Department of Health Services;
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• Ventura County Air Pollution Control District; • California Department of Conservation; • City of Camarillo Department of Planning and Community Development; • Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner; • Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board; • Environmental Defense Center; • Surfrider Foundation; • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; • Naval Base Ventura County; and • City of Oxnard. The Initial Study and NOP comment letters are attached as Appendices A and B, respectively. Effects found not to be significant are identified in the attached Initial Study. Based on the findings of the Initial Study, NEPA requirements, and concerns identified in comment letters submitted in response to the NOP, the EIR/EA is focused on the following issue areas: • Land Use; • Geology/Soils; • Air Quality; • Water Quality; • Water Resources; • Biological Resources; • Agricultural Resources; • Noise; • Aesthetics; • Transportation; • Risk of Upset; • Cultural Resources; • Socioeconomics; and • Indian Trust Assets. This Program EIR/EA addresses the issues above and identifies any significant environmental impacts. The Program EIR/EA also recommends feasible mitigation measures, where possible, that would reduce or eliminate significant environmental effects.
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The discussion of project alternatives in this EIR/EA has been prepared in accordance with Section 15126(d) of the State CEQA Guidelines. This Program EIR/EA examines the relative impacts of the proposed project, the alternative pipeline alignments, an alternative ocean outfall, and the "No Project" alternative for each issue area. The "environmentally superior" alternative is identified in the Summary section of this Program EIR/EA. The level of detail contained throughout this EIR/EA is consistent with the requirements of CEQA and recent court decisions. The State CEQA Guidelines provide the standard by which the adequacy of this EIR/EA is based. The Guidelines state: "An EIR should be prepared with a sufficient degree of analysis to provide decision-makers with information which enables them to make a decision which intelligently takes account of environmental consequences. An evaluation of the environmental effects of a proposed project need not be exhaustive, but the sufficiency of an EIR is to be reviewed in the light of what is reasonably feasible. Disagreement among experts does not make an EIR inadequate, but the EIR should summarize the main points of disagreement among the experts. The courts have looked not for perfection but for adequacy, completeness, and a good faith effort at full disclosure." [emphasis added] (Section 15151). However, it is expected that additional environmental analysis would be required when the sources and flow rates of wastewater and brine, and pipeline alignments are more precisely defined. 1.4 RESPONSIBLE AND TRUSTEE AGENCIES The State CEQA Guidelines define "lead", "responsible", and "trustee" agencies. CMWD, as a public agency, has the principal responsibility for carrying out and approving the proposed project. Therefore, CMWD is the lead agency. Responsible agencies are defined as non-Federal public agencies that have discretionary authority over certain aspects of the project. These agencies may utilize this Program EIR/EA in their decision-making process. Responsible agencies for the proposed project may include the City of Oxnard, Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board and California Department of Fish and Game. Trustee agencies refer to agencies having jurisdiction by law over the natural resources affected by a project. Based upon this definition, the California Department of Fish and Game and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which have jurisdiction over biological resources that may be impacted by the proposed project, are trustee agencies. 1.5 MITIGATION MONITORING PLAN Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081.6, a Mitigation Monitoring Plan will be developed to ensure the implementation of the mitigation measures identified in the Program EIR/EA. The Plan would be adopted by the CMWD Board of Directors in conjunction with the findings required under CEQA, when the CMWD Board certifies the Program EIR/EA and approves the proposed project.
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1.6 PROJECT APPROVALS AND PERMITS Project implementation may require CMWD to obtain permits and/or other forms of approval from Federal, State and local agencies. These agencies may include, but are not limited to, the following: 1.6.1 Federal Agencies: • Army Corps of Engineers - Clean Water Act Section 404 permit. • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Section 7 Consultation under the Endangered Species Act. 1.6.2 State Agencies • Department of Fish and Game - Streambed Alteration Agreement. • Regional Water Quality Control Board - National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Ocean Discharge Permit, NPDES groundwater dewatering permit, General Construction Stormwater Permit, and 401 Water Quality Certification. • California Department of Transportation – road encroachment permits for Routes 1, 34, 101 and 118. 1.6.3 Local Agencies • County of Ventura - Grading, flood control encroachment, and road encroachment permits. • City of Camarillo – road encroachment permits. • City of Moorpark – road encroachment permits. • City of Oxnard – coastal development permit, road encroachment permits. • City of Simi Valley - road encroachment permits. 1.6.4 Private Corporations • Union Pacific Railroad – encroachment permits for crossings. • Metrolink - encroachment permits for crossings. 1.7 CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL PROGRAM EIR/EA The Draft Program EIR/EA was circulated for review by public agencies and interested members of the public from May 17 through July 13, 2002. CMWD prepared responses to all comments received (see Section 13). This Final Program EIR/EA is comprised of the Draft Program EIR/EA, comments and responses to comments received during circulation of the draft, and a list of persons, organizations, and public agencies that commented on the Draft Program EIR/EA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15132. CMWD is the lead agency for the Program EIR/EA and has the responsibility of determining the adequacy of the Program EIR/EA pursuant to CEQA.
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2.0 SUMMARY This section has been prepared in accordance with the CEQA Guidelines, and is divided into two components. The first summarizes the characteristics of the proposed project, and the second identifies environmental impacts, mitigation measures and residual impacts. In addition, the project alternatives are summarized. 2.1 PROJECT SYNOPSIS 2.1.1 Project Proponent Calleguas Municipal Water District 2100 Olsen Road Thousand Oaks, California 91360 Contact: Eric Bergh (805) 579-7128 2.1.2 Location The project site is located within several jurisdictions including the County of Ventura, California and the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo and Oxnard. Figure 2-1 provides an aerial photograph of the Phase I pipeline alignments. Figure 3-1 shows the project's regional location. Figure 3-2 shows the preferred project pipeline alignment. 2.1.3 Proposed Action The proposed project consists of a pipeline system to transport wastewater and brine concentrate to an existing outfall for ocean disposal. Over time, the proposed project would result in a net reduction in the salinity of surface water and groundwater within the Calleguas Creek watershed. Wastewater is defined as tertiary-treated municipal wastewater, and brine is defined as the byproduct of reverse osmosis treatment (or equivalent technology) of groundwater or wastewater. Table 3-1 identifies the source and type (wastewater or brine) of water to be discharged to the proposed pipeline system. This document is limited to the assessment of environmental impacts associated with construction and operation of the proposed pipeline system. Environmental documentation and compliance with CEQA and NEPA for new water treatment facilities that may utilize the pipeline system for conveyance of wastewater or brine streams would be the responsibility of the individual facility operators. Due to the uncertainty of the ultimate need for, treatment characteristics, flow rate and identity of treated water users, assessment of impacts associated with water treatment facilities would be entirely speculative at this time. The locations of potential wastewater and/or brine input sources to the pipeline system are shown in Figure 3-2, and include the following: • Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant; • Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant; • Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant; • Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility;
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• Groundwater wells located in Simi Valley and unincorporated portions of Ventura County near Moorpark and Camarillo; and • Industrial operations located in proximity to the pipeline alignment. The alignment of the proposed pipeline system lies almost entirely within the Calleguas Creek watershed, and extends approximately 32 miles from its upstream end in the City of Simi Valley to its downstream terminus near Ormond Beach in the City of Oxnard (see Figure 3-2). The pipeline system passes through the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo and Oxnard, and portions of unincorporated Ventura County. The project would be phased, with Phase I comprised of the portion of the pipeline from the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility to the preferred ocean outfall at Ormond Beach. Phase II would be comprised of the balance of proposed pipeline system, as described in Section 3.5. Additional information is provided in Section 3.0. 2.1.4 Alternatives Considered The following alternatives address the issue of brine disposal. 2.1.4.1 No Project/No Action Alternative This alternative consists of the continuance of existing conditions, with no physical changes to the environment. However, TDS and chloride concentrations in local groundwater would continue to increase, and municipal wastewater would continue to be reclaimed with the excess discharged to adjacent surface waters. 2.1.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments The Regional Brine Lines Sizing and Alignment Study prepared for CMWD by Perliter and Ingalsbe Consulting Engineers in April, 2001 identified a preferred alignment for the pipeline system (see Figure 3-2) and numerous alternative alignments. Several alternative alignments for each pipeline segment were examined in detail in the Perliter and Ingalsbe study. Advantages and disadvantages of each alternative alignment were evaluated, and a preferred alignment was selected for each pipeline segment. The alternative alignments were considered less feasible due to construction cost, permit requirements and other factors. However, future analysis may result in new information that could change the selection of alignments for Phase II. A summary of the Phase I and Phase II alternative alignments is provided in Table 4-1. 2.1.4.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall The alternative pipeline alignment would terminate at, and discharge into the existing outfall used by the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This outfall is located directly seaward of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant, and extends 5,950 feet offshore. The water depth in this region is approximately 50 feet. The terminal end of the outfall is perforated, forming a diffuser. 2.2 AREAS OF KNOWN CONTROVERSY The proposed project is well known within the Ventura County environmental community, through meetings and presentations conducted by CMWD. To date, no controversy has been communicated to CMWD.
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2.3 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, MITIGATION MEASURES AND ALTERNATIVES This section identifies two types of project impacts: Significant, Unavoidable Adverse Impacts. These are impacts for which specific economic, social or other considerations make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the EIR/EA. Should the CMWD Board of Directors decide to approve the project, a Statement of Overriding Considerations must be adopted for any significant unavoidable adverse impacts. In compliance with Section 3.12.3 of Reclamation’s NEPA Handbook, any significant unavoidable adverse impact under CEQA is also considered significant under NEPA and would require preparation of an EIS. No significant, unavoidable adverse impacts were identified for Phase I of the Proposed Action or Alternatives. Significant unavoidable adverse impacts for Phase II of the Proposed Action and Alternatives are summarized in Table 2-1. Significant Adverse Impacts. These are significant impacts that can be feasibly mitigated to less than significant levels. Therefore, by definition, residual impacts would be less than significant. Significant adverse impacts for the Proposed Action and Alternatives are summarized in Table 2-2. 2.4 COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES The environmental impacts of the Alternatives are compared to the Proposed Action in Table 2-3. The comparison includes a segment-specific analysis. 2.4.1 Alternative Pipeline Alignments The environmental impacts of the alternative pipeline alignments would have the following substantial differences as compared to the Proposed Action: Phase I. • Pipeline Segment G-H Alternative B would have much greater biological impacts than the Proposed Action; • The diversion structure for Alternative B would have significant biological impacts that would be avoided by the diversion structure site for the Proposed Action. Phase II. • Pipeline Segment B-C Alternative A would have greater biological impacts associated with loss of riparian habitat along Arroyo Las Posas; • Pipeline Segment C-D Alternative A would have lesser biological impacts by avoiding loss of riparian habitat along Arroyo Las Posas associated with the Proposed Action and Alternative B; • Pipeline Segment B-C Alternative B would have greater noise impacts to residential areas in Moorpark than the Proposed Action;
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• Pipeline Segments C-D and D-E Alternative A would have noise impacts to residential areas along SR 118, Somis Road and Lewis Road, not affected by the Proposed Action; • Pipeline Segments C-D and D-E Alternative B would have noise impacts to residential areas in Camarillo, not affected by the Proposed Action; • Pipeline Segment D-E Alternative C would have significant noise impacts to residential areas in Camarillo, not affected by the Proposed Action; • Pipeline Segment C-D Alternative A would potentially disturb a greater number of archeological or historic sites than the Proposed Action; and • Pipeline Segments D-E Alternatives B and C would avoid disturbance to a historic site, associated with the Proposed Action and Alternative A. 2.4.2 Alternative Ocean Outfall The Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant ocean outfall provides greater dilution, and use of this outfall would avoid significant water quality impacts associated with ocean discharge at the proposed outfall (Ormond Beach). In addition, significant biological impacts associated with these water quality impacts would also be avoided. These impacts may include lethal or sublethal effects of mercury toxicity to invertebrates, fish, marine birds and marine mammals, including special-status species (California least tern, California brown pelican and marine mammals). However, this Alternative may not be feasible due to uncertainty regarding the availability of adequate long-term capacity at this outfall. 2.4.3 No Project/No Action Alternative The No Action Alternative would avoid short-term adverse environmental impacts associated with construction and installation of the pipeline, or long-term impacts associated with ocean discharge of wastewater or brine. However, salt loading and accumulation within surface waters and groundwater will intensify due to continued use of higher TDS surface and groundwater supplies, agricultural return flows, and to a lesser extent, treatment plant discharges to surface waters. Over time, surface water and groundwater is expected to exceed water quality objectives, and may not fully support designated beneficial uses. These uses include wetlands and habitat for special-status wildlife species.
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2.5 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUPERIOR/PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE 2.5.1 Phase I Sufficient analysis has been conducted as part of this Program EIR/EA to identify the Proposed Action as the Environmentally Superior Alternative for Phase I of the project. The pipeline alignment identified under the Proposed Action would avoid most of the impacts to special-status species and sensitive habitats in the vicinity of Ormond Beach. The Alternative Ocean Outfall is the Environmentally Superior Alternative, since it would avoid significant water quality impacts to the marine environment. However, this Alternative may not be feasible due to uncertainty regarding the availability of adequate long-term capacity at this outfall. In addition, mitigation has been identified to mitigate water quality impacts of the proposed ocean outfall to a level of less than significant. 2.5.2 Phase II The Phase II pipeline alignments are conceptual, and are based on very limited engineering and environmental investigation. Therefore, the feasibility of each of the pipeline alignment alternatives is not known at this time. The ultimate location and relative environmental merits of each segment of the Phase II pipeline will depend on the location of water sources that will utilize the pipeline, which is not entirely known at this time. Therefore, additional investigation and analysis would be required to fully determine the Environmentally Superior Alternative for the Phase II pipeline alignments. Some combination of pipeline segments (proposed and alternative) would result in the fewest significant impacts. However, future biological and archeological surveys of the precise alignments may provide new information and modify the relative magnitude of impacts of the alternatives. In addition, future engineering design may identify modifications to the alignments and construction methodology that may modify the relative magnitude of impacts of the pipeline alignment alternatives.
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BLANK PAGE BEFORE FOLDOUT
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Figure 2-1. Aerial Photograph of the Phase I Project Area (click to view)
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BACK OF FOLDOUT
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Table 2-1. Summary of Significant Unavoidable Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-1. Summary of Significant Unavoidable Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-1. Summary of Significant Unavoidable Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (click to view)
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Table 2-3. Comparison of the Alternatives (click to view)
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3.0 PROPOSED PROJECT/PROPOSED ACTION This section provides a detailed description of the preferred project. The information in this section is intended to provide the public, reviewing agencies, and decision-makers a thorough understanding of the proposed project, and the basis for the environmental analysis. More specifically, this section provides information on the following topics: (1) project location, (2) project proponent, (3) project characteristics, (4) project construction methods, and (5) project operation. Alternatives to the Proposed Action are described in Section 4.0. 3.1 PROJECT LOCATION The project site is located within several jurisdictions including the County of Ventura, California and the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo and Oxnard. Figure 3-1 shows the project's regional location. Figure 3-2 shows the preferred project pipeline alignment. 3.2 PROJECT PROPONENT Calleguas Municipal Water District 2100 Olsen Road Thousand Oaks, California 91360 Contact: Eric Bergh (805) 579-7128 3.3 PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS 3.3.1 Overview The proposed project consists of a pipeline system to transport wastewater and brine concentrate to an existing outfall for ocean disposal. Over time, the proposed project would result in a net reduction in the salinity of surface water and groundwater within the Calleguas Creek watershed. The proposed pipeline system would include the use of an existing ocean outfall and a new diversion structure to interconnect the pipeline to the ocean outfall. The alignment of the proposed pipeline system lies almost entirely within the Calleguas Creek watershed, and extends approximately 32 miles from its upstream end in the City of Simi Valley to its downstream terminus near Ormond Beach in the City of Oxnard (see Figure 3-2). The pipeline system passes through the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo and Oxnard, and portions of unincorporated Ventura County. The locations of potential wastewater and/or brine input sources to the pipeline system are shown in Figure 3-2, and include the following: • Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant; • Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant; • Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant; • Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility; • Groundwater wells located in Simi Valley and unincorporated portions of Ventura County near Moorpark and Camarillo; and • Industrial operations located in proximity to the pipeline alignment.
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The capacity of the main pipeline would generally increase in the downstream direction along the alignment to accommodate additional flow inputs. The main pipeline would be approximately 16 inches in diameter at the upstream end in Simi Valley, increasing along the alignment to a maximum of approximately 54 inches in diameter near the downstream end. Pipeline materials would vary along the alignment depending on performance characteristics, availability and cost. Pipe materials used for the project may include a combination of the following: reinforced concrete cylinder pipe (RCCP), welded steel pipe (WSP), reinforced concrete pipe (RCP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Vitrified Clay Pipe (VCP), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Closed Profile Polyvinyl Chloride (Vylon) and Ductile Iron Pipe (DIP). Preliminary grade and alignment analyses indicate that the pipeline would operate under both gravity and pressurized flow. Maintaining non-pressurized flow is desirable at points of inflow along the pipeline alignment. However, flow may become pressurized at creek, roadway or utility undercrossings where a siphon or steep vertical alignment is required, or at locations where the depth of excavation to maintain gravity flow is considered prohibitive. 3.3.2 Wastewater and Brine Flow Contributions Table 3-1 lists the facilities that are expected to discharge wastewater and/or brine into the pipeline system. Wastewater is defined as tertiary-treated municipal wastewater, and brine is defined as the byproduct of reverse osmosis (RO) treatment (or equivalent technology) of groundwater or wastewater. It is assumed that water treated using the RO process (or equivalent technology) would produce a brine concentrate stream of 20 percent of the input volume, leaving 80 percent of the volume as low TDS (treated) water. Flow rates for existing facilities are based on projections provided by the facility operators. As shown in Table 3-1, an additional 50 percent over the anticipated maximum flows from the wastewater treatment plants and groundwater wells has been added to allow for discharges from unidentified industrial and agricultural uses. Descriptions of the source facilities and anticipated wastewater and brine flows are provided following Table 3-1. Due to the uncertainty regarding the proportion of treatment plant effluent that would be treated with RO, two scenarios were developed to assess impacts to water resources (100 percent scenario and 50 percent scenario). The 100 percent scenario is based on RO treatment of the entire effluent from the Simi Valley WQCP and Camarillo WRP, with 20 percent of the flow discharged as brine to the proposed pipeline system and the remainder discharged to surface waters. The 50 percent scenario is based on RO treatment of 50 percent of the effluent from the Simi Valley WQCP and Camarillo WRP, and the balance blended with the RO treated water and discharged to surface waters. The 100 percent scenario was used to assess ocean impacts, since it would result in the highest wastewater flows and highest pollutant concentrations at the ocean outfall. The 50 percent scenario was used to assess surface water quality impacts, since it would result in the least removal of TDS and other constituents from wastewater prior to stream discharge.
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Figure 3-1. Regional Location (click to view)
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BACK OF FIGURE
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Figure 3-2. Preferred Pipeline Alignment and Wastewater Input Sources (click to view)
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Table 3-1. Anticipated Wastewater Contributions to t he Project Pipeline System (click to view)
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Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant. The City of Simi Valley is the wastewater authority in Simi Valley. The service area covers approximately 31 square miles and serves an estimated population of 60,000. The service boundary generally coincides with the boundary of the City of Simi Valley. Wastewater generated within the service area is collected by a network of sewer collectors and sewer trunk lines and conveyed to and treated at the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant (Simi Valley WQCP). The Simi Valley WQCP is located in the westernmost portion of Simi Valley and is designed and operated to meet the discharge requirements established by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board - Los Angeles Region. The current average flow into the plant is 9 to 9.5 million gallons per day (mgd), while the Plant capacity is 12.5 mgd. Treatment processes include aerated grit removal, primary sedimentation, activated sludge biological secondary treatment, secondary sedimentation, dual media filtration, chlorination and dechlorination. Solids are further processed and disposed offsite. Approximately 250 acre-feet per year of the Simi Valley WQCP effluent is reclaimed, primarily for landscape irrigation and for dust control operations at the Simi Valley Landfill (Bookman-Edmonston, 1997). However, the City received approval in 1996 to increase the use of recycled water to 4,770 acre-feet per year (4.3 mgd) by the State Water Resources Control Board. The remainder of the Simi Valley WQCP effluent is discharged to Arroyo Simi, a tributary of Calleguas Creek, under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Number CA-0055221. Therefore, increased use of Simi Valley WQCP effluent as recycled water and associated decreased discharge to Arroyo Simi would occur independently of the proposed project. Impacts to surface water quantity and quality associated with reclamation of RO-treated wastewater would be addressed as part of environmental documentation for future reclamation projects. In the event the City of Simi Valley desires to provide further treatment of its wastewater to increase the supply of reclaimed wastewater, the proposed pipeline system would be designed to accommodate any brine produced. Table 3-1 identifies the estimated ultimate flow rates of brine to the pipeline and RO-treated wastewater to Arroyo Simi, for both the 50 percent and 100 percent scenarios. The portion of the proposed pipeline system serving the Simi Valley WQCP would not be constructed unless CMWD was certain this brine stream would be available. Simi Valley Dewatering Wells. Five wells located within the City (First Street, Chain Drive, Ward Street, Madera Road, Sinaloa Road) are operated by the City of Simi Valley to alleviate high groundwater levels in the western portion of the City. About 1,600 acre-feet per year of groundwater is currently pumped and discharged into Arroyo Simi. For the purposes of the project, it is assumed that the City would install pipelines from each well to a common treatment facility (reverse osmosis or equivalent) constructed by the City, located at Chain Drive. Groundwater from each of these five wells would be treated to reduce concentrations of dissolved minerals and other pollutants. For planning purposes, it is assumed that approximately 0.9 mgd of brine concentrate would be discharged into the project pipeline. Approximately 3.4 mgd of treated water would be introduced into the CMWD potable water distribution system.
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Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant (MWTP) is located at 9550 Los Angeles Avenue, just west of the City of Moorpark, California. The facility is owned and operated by Ventura County Waterworks District No. 1. The service area of District no. 1 covers approximately 18,500 acres and serves an estimated population of 35,000. Slightly more than 40 percent of the service boundary is within the City of Moorpark. Generally, the adjacent unincorporated portion of the District’s service area lies north and west of Moorpark on the slopes of Oak Ridge and within the Las Posas Valley, respectively. On the south, both City of Moorpark and District no. 1’s boundaries are generally the same. Wastewater collected within the District no. 1’s service area is conveyed to and treated at the MWTP located about 4 miles west of the City between Highway 118 and Arroyo Las Posas. A recently completed upgrade of the MWTP provides capacity for an average wastewater flow of 3.0 mgd, and a peak flow of 7.08 mgd. District no. 1 is proposing to expand the average treatment capacity to 5.0 mgd, and increase the tertiary treatment capacity to 3.0 mgd. Secondary-treated effluent is normally discharged to a series of percolation ponds located at the MWTP site for disposal through groundwater percolation and evaporation. However, Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board Order No. 95-033 authorizes (but does not require) discharge of MWTP effluent into the surface waters of Arroyo Las Posas. Surface discharge is primarily utilized during times of storm flow when wet weather conditions preclude percolation of the entire MWTP effluent production. Tertiary-treated effluent would be made available (reclaimed) for reuse as landscape or crop irrigation. District no. 1 is constructing a reclaimed water system which is expected to be completed in July 2002. The system would distribute up to 1.5 mgd of reclaimed water to be used for landscape irrigation. Current average inflow to the MWTP is about 2.0 mgd. As inflow to the MWTP increases with growth in the service area, additional effluent would be treated to tertiary standards and distributed as reclaimed water. District no. 1’s priorities for wastewater disposal are reclamation, percolation and discharge to Arroyo Las Posas, in decreasing order of preference. It is assumed that up to 3.0 mgd of tertiary-treated MWTP effluent would be discharged to the proposed pipeline system. MWTP effluent in excess of percolation pond capacity and reclamation demand would be diverted to the proposed pipeline system. South Las Posas Basin Groundwater Wells (VCWWD Wells). The Ventura County Waterworks District No. 1 produces an average of about 2,000 acre-feet per year from the South Las Posas Groundwater Basin, from wells located west of Moorpark. This groundwater is of poor quality, high in nitrates and TDS. As part of the Regional Salinity Management Project, it is assumed District no. 1 would treat this groundwater using a RO process (or equivalent technology), with the brine concentrate (1.36 mgd) directed into the proposed pipeline system, and the treated water directed to a potable water distribution system.
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Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant. The Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Camarillo WRP) is located at 150 Howard Avenue in the City of Camarillo, California. The plant has a treatment design capacity of 6.75 million gallons per day. The Camarillo WRP applies secondary treatment to the industrial and municipal wastewater that it receives. Treatment consists of mechanically cleaned bar screens, grit removal, primary sedimentation, activated sludge treatment, secondary clarification, chlorination and dechlorination. Solids are processed further and disposed offsite. About 50 percent of the Camarillo WRP effluent is presently reclaimed and used for landscape and agricultural irrigation. Effluent flow in excess of irrigation demand is discharged to the Conejo Creek, under NPDES Permit no. CA-0053597. The volume of effluent discharged to Conejo Creek varies with the seasonal demand for reclaimed water. In the event the City of Camarillo desires to provide further treatment of its wastewater to increase the supply of reclaimed wastewater, the proposed pipeline system would be designed to accommodate any brine produced. Table 3-1 identifies the estimated flow rates of brine to the pipeline and RO-treated wastewater to Conejo Creek, for both the 50 percent and 100 percent scenarios. For the purposes of this project, it is assumed that all RO- treated wastewater would be discharged to Conejo Creek. Impacts to surface water quantity and quality associated with reclamation of RO-treated wastewater would be addressed as part of environmental documentation for future reclamation projects. Santa Rosa Basin Groundwater Wells. The Camrosa Water District (CWD) is considering the construction of an electrodialysis reversal (EDR) treatment facility immediately south of the “Hill Canyon” wells, located near the intersection of Santa Rosa Road and Hill Canyon Road. The groundwater produced at the Hill Canyon wells would be treated using the EDR process to reduce TDS levels. The brine produced as a byproduct of the EDR treatment process would be discharged to the proposed pipeline system. At this time, it is estimated that up to 0.26 mgd of brine would be produced. Camrosa Water District Water Reclamation Facility. CWD serves 19,000 acres in Ventura County, including a portion of the City of Camarillo, and the Santa Rosa and Tierra Rejada Valleys. CWD supplies potable and non-potable water throughout its service area, and wastewater disposal service within the City of Camarillo, the California State University at Channel Islands, and several social service residential care facilities. The Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF) is located at 1574 Lewis Road in the City of Camarillo, California. The Camrosa WRF is operated by the Camrosa Water District, with a treatment capacity of 1.5 million gallons per day, and an ultimate planned capacity of 3 mgd. Camrosa WRF applies secondary treatment to the municipal and industrial wastewater flows it receives. Treatment consists of extended aeration, nitrogen removal, secondary clarification, tertiary filtration and disinfection. The total amount of wastewater treated at the Camrosa WRF is about 1,350 acre-feet per year. Approximately 450 acre-feet per year of the reclaimed water is diverted and used for irrigation of row crops.
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Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board NPDES Permit No. CA-0059501 authorizes (but does not require) discharge of Camrosa WRF effluent into the surface waters of Calleguas Creek. Effluent is only discharged when the supply of effluent exceeds the capacity of storage ponds and agricultural irrigation demand. Typically, discharges to Calleguas Creek occur for only one to two weeks in the spring, and may not occur at all in some years. These discharges occur at a point adjacent to the storage ponds, upstream of the confluence with Long Grade Canyon. Upon completion of the proposed pipeline system, it is assumed that ultimately, up to 3 mgd of Camrosa WRF effluent would be discharged to the project pipeline. Some discharge of Camrosa WRF effluent to Calleguas Creek may continue to occur during rainy periods. Agricultural Groundwater Treatment and Industrial Brine. As shown in Table 3- 1, a 50 percent allowance above the anticipated flows from the wastewater treatment plants and groundwater wells has been made to allow capacity for potential flows into the project pipeline from potential unidentified agricultural groundwater treatment facilities and industrial operations located along the proposed pipeline system alignment. 3.3.3 Proposed Ocean Outfall The Regional Salinity Management Project pipeline system would terminate at, and discharge into the existing outfall used by Ormond Beach power plant to dispose of cooling water. The outfall extends 1,790 feet into the ocean, and is 14 feet in diameter. Due to the large size of the outfall, no capacity limitations for the proposed project are expected. Cooling water is pumped from the ocean and discharged under gravity flow; however, the pumps are not normally used between November and June, except for 15 minutes each day to draw in new oxygenated ocean water. If the pumps are not operating, discharge from the proposed pipeline system would be the only discharge to the outfall. The pipeline connection to the outfall would include both a direct connection to the outfall line and an indirect connection to the outfall via the cooling water intake. The Alternative ocean outfall is described in Section 4.3. 3.3.4 Proposed Pipeline Alignment The proposed pipeline system would be approximately 32 miles in length, extending from Simi Valley to the ocean outfall in Oxnard. The Regional Brine Line Sizing and Alignment Study prepared for CMWD by Perliter and Ingalsbe Consulting Engineers in April, 2001 identifies a preferred alignment for the pipeline system (see Figure 3-2) and numerous alternative alignments. Alternative alignments are discussed in Section 4.2. It is important to realize the pipeline alignments as shown in the Figures and described below represent a 300-foot-wide environmental assessment corridor, to allow for minor changes in the alignment to avoid utilities, levees, roadways and other structures. However, the actual width of disturbance would generally be less than 75 feet.
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Table 3-2. Summary of the Proposed Pipeline Alignments
Length Segment Endpoints (miles) Phase I F-G Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility to the Hueneme Road/Arnold Road intersection 6.3 G-H Hueneme Road/Arnold Road intersection to the Ormond Beach power plant outfall 2.4 Total 8.7 Phase II A-B Simi Valley dewatering wells to the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant 1.4 B-C Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant 8.5 C-D Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant to where Adolfo Road crosses Calleguas Creek 6.7 D-E Adolfo Road crossing of Calleguas Creek to Lewis Road crossing of Calleguas Creek 5.4 E-F Lewis Road crossing of Calleguas Creek to near Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility 1.3 Total 23.3
The proposed project is divided into two distinct phases; Phase I is comprised of the proposed pipeline from the Camrosa Water District Wastewater Treatment Plant to the existing Ormond Beach power plant ocean outfall. The remaining portions of the proposed pipeline system are identified as Phase II. 3.4 PHASE I The proposed pipeline system would be approximately 32 miles in length, extending from Simi Valley to the ocean outfall in Oxnard. This Phase consists of two pipeline segments totaling 8.7 miles linking the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF) (Point F) to the Ormond Beach power plant (Point H2). A summary of Phase I preferred pipeline alignments is provided in Table 3-2. 3.4.1 Segment F-G This segment begins at the Camrosa WRF, within 500 feet of the intersection of Lewis Road and the access road to the Camrosa WRF. The alignment would head northwest and cross under Lewis Road and Calleguas Creek. Segment F-G would then follow the Hueneme Road rights-of-way, cross under Revolon Slough, cross under Highway 1, and continue along Hueneme Road to its intersection with Arnold Road (see Figure 3-3). The total length of this segment is approximately 33,400 feet, with 30,000 feet within or adjacent to the Hueneme Road rights-of-way, and 3,400 feet within or adjacent to the Ventura County Flood Control District (VCFCD) rights-of-way. The pipe is expected to be approximately 54 inches in diameter, and constructed of HDPE pipe. The pipeline crossings under Calleguas Creek, Revolon Slough and Highway 1 would be completed using micro-tunneling or jack-and-bore methodologies.
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3.4.2 Segment G-H Continuing west along Hueneme Road past Arnold Road, Segment G-H would turn south on Edison Road towards the Ormond Beach power plant. This Segment would terminate at a diversion structure, just northwest of the main gate to the power plant. Piping from the diversion structure would cross a tributary of the Oxnard Drain, then turn east and enter lands owned by Southern California Edison and formerly used as a tank farm. The alignment would then turn south, then southwest, along the eastern boundary of the Ormond Beach power plant. Upon reaching the beach, the alignment would turn northwest and parallel the beach to the Ormond Beach outfall. The total length of this segment (including piping from the diversion structure to the outfall) is approximately 12,900 feet (2.4 miles), 9,300 feet within public road rights-of-way, and 3,600 feet on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 54 inches in diameter, and constructed of HDPE pipe. 3.4.3 Diversion Structure The proposed Diversion Structure would function as an interconnection between the proposed pipeline and the existing ocean intake and outfall used by the Ormond Beach power plant. The Diversion Structure would be located within an area of about 100 feet by 150 feet, located immediately north of the power plant and immediately west of the terminus of Edison Road, on land currently owned by the Metropolitan Water District. The facility would control and direct flow from the proposed pipeline system to the ocean outfall. The Diversion Structure would include pipes, valves, vaults, masonry buildings and controls as necessary to allow remote, local and manual operation of the facility. 3.5 PHASE II The proposed pipeline system would be approximately 32 miles in length, extending from Simi Valley to the ocean outfall in Oxnard. Phase II consists of five pipeline segments totaling 23.3 miles, linking the Simi Valley dewatering wells to the Camrosa WRF (see Figures 3-5 through 3-8). A summary of Phase II preferred pipeline alignments is provided in Table 3-2. Phase II is included in this Program EIR/EA because it is a logical extension of Phase I. However, no firm commitments have been made by potential pipeline contributors, and future CEQA assessment would likely be required for Phase II, when fundamental parameters such as the identity, volume and water quality of each potential pipeline contributor are fully identified, and the alignment of pipelines can be finalized. As Phase II projects become more defined and suitable for project-specific NEPA analysis, Reclamation and CMWD would develop detailed project descriptions and complete NEPA review as appropriate. It is important to realize the pipeline alignments as shown in the Figures and described below represent a 300-foot-wide environmental assessment corridor, to allow for minor changes in the alignment to avoid utilities, levees, roadways and other structures. However, the actual width of disturbance would generally be less than 75 feet.
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For the purposes of impact assessment within the 300-foot-wide corridor, the following assumptions were made: 1. The pipe would be located at least 20 feet away from the top of the adjacent stream bank for pipeline alignments located parallel to channelized drainages (to avoid exposure due to erosion); 2. All major stream crossings (Calleguas Creek, Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas, Conejo Creek) would be completed by tunneling, such that the disturbance corridor would exclude the bed and banks of the affected drainages; and 3. Minor streams (e.g. Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon and other small drainages) would be crossed using trenching methods, such that the disturbance corridor would include the bed and banks of the affected drainages. 3.5.1 Segment A-B Segment A-B represents the upstream terminus of the pipeline system. This segment links Point A (Simi Valley dewatering wells) to Point B (Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant) (see Figure 3-5). At Point A, brine concentrate would be collected from the Simi Valley dewatering wells on Chain Drive in the City of Simi Valley. This segment would follow Chain Drive to the south, then westerly along East Easy Street, across Madera Road to West Easy Street. Segment A-B would continue along West Easy Street and West Los Angeles Avenue, where it would then terminate at the Simi Valley WQCP. The pipe is expected to be approximately 16 inches in diameter. The total length of this segment is approximately 7,300 feet, entirely within or adjacent to roadway rights-of-way. 3.5.2 Segment B-C Segment B-C links the Simi Valley WQCP to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant (MWTP) (see Figure 3-5). Just upstream of the MWTP, the pipeline system would pick up brine concentrate from the South Las Posas Basin Groundwater Wells; however, the pipeline alignment from the Wells to Segment B-C has not been determined at this time. This segment would follow Los Angeles Avenue westward, cross under Arroyo Simi and then along the north side of the railroad tracks. Just prior to crossing the Arroyo Simi a second time, the alignment would turn southeast and cross under the railroad tracks. After crossing the railroad tracks, the alignment would turn west and cross under Arroyo Simi and continue west, along the railroad tracks. Upon reaching the north bank of Arroyo Simi, the alignment would turn north along Nogales Avenue, cross the railroad tracks and continue north to East Los Angeles Avenue. Segment B-C would turn west on East Los Angeles Avenue, cross under the Highway 23 transition to Highway 118 to the intersection of Los Angeles Avenue and Spring Road.
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Segment B-C would then cross Moorpark Road, and head westward along High Street to its terminus. At this point, the alignment leaves the public rights-of-way and enters into a variety of undeveloped lands including agricultural, public and commercial lands. This segment would parallel both the railroad tracks and the flood control channel, until it reaches an area just north of an industrial complex. At a point before the railroad tracks join adjacent to Los Angeles Avenue as it turns southwest and east of the industrial complex, the alignment turns south through an empty field. The alignment continues south and crosses the railroad tracks and Los Angeles Avenue and turns westerly again along Los Angeles Avenue, then turns south along Hitch Boulevard. Segment B-C then follows the north bank of Arroyo Las Posas westward to the MWTP. Effluent from the MWTP would be discharged to the pipeline system at this location. The total length of this segment is approximately 45,000 feet (8.5 miles), with 21,300 feet within or adjacent to the roadway rights-of-way, 4,300 feet within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way, and 19,400 feet on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 24 inches in diameter. Installation of Segment B-C would require five railroad crossings, at least five creek crossings and one highway crossing (SR 118). 3.5.3 Segment C-D This segment of the pipeline system would extend from the MWTP to a point on Adolfo Road where it crosses Calleguas Creek (see Figure 3-6). Segment C-D extends above and along the north bank of Arroyo Las Posas until it reaches Upland Road, near St. John’s Seminary. This segment continues parallel to the north bank of Calleguas Creek (known as Arroyo Las Posas north of Upland Road) to Adolfo Road. The total length of this segment is approximately 35,600 feet (6.7 miles), with 3,700 feet within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way, and 31,900 feet on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 24 inches in diameter. Installation of Segment C-D would require at least four creek crossings (mostly unnamed tributaries). 3.5.4 Segment D-E This segment links the intersection of Adolfo Road and Calleguas Creek (Point D) to the intersection of Lewis Road and Calleguas Creek (Point E2), and includes the pipeline connection from the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Camarillo WRP) to the proposed pipeline (see Figure 3-7). The D-E segment would parallel the west bank of Calleguas Creek to a point near its confluence with Conejo Creek. The pipeline would be installed under U.S. 101 through boring and jacking. This segment would then parallel Conejo Creek to Point E2. The pipeline segment to the Camarillo WRP would cross under Calleguas Creek, immediately upstream of its confluence with Conejo Creek, follow Rancho Road and Howard Road to the west bank of Conejo Creek. This segment would ten parallel the west bank of Conejo Creek to the Camarillo WRP. Brine concentrate from the Camarillo WRP would be discharged to the pipeline system at this location.
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The total length of this segment is approximately 28,500 feet (5.4 miles), with 7,500 feet within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way, and 21,000 feet on private property. The main pipe is expected to be approximately 30 inches in diameter. The pipe connection to the Camarillo WRP is expected to be 24 inches in diameter. Installation of Segment D-E would require one creek crossing and one highway crossing. 3.5.5 Segment E-F This segment links Point E2 (intersection of Lewis Road and Calleguas Creek) to the Phase I pipeline near the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF) (Point F) (see Figure 3-8). Segment E-F would follow southwest parallel to the west bank of Calleguas Creek, and connect with the Phase I pipeline within 500 feet of the intersection of Lewis Road and the access road to the Camrosa WRF. The total length of this segment is approximately 6,600 feet (1.3 miles), within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way, or on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 30 inches in diameter. Installation of Segment E-F would not require any creek or roadway crossings. 3.6 PROJECT CONSTRUCTION Wherever possible, the pipeline would be placed in existing or future public rights-of- way, including streets, highways, utility corridors, or other publicly owned facilities. This approach minimizes disruption to property owners. Permanent rights-of-way would be 30 feet wide for pipelines. CMWD would have access to the permanent rights-of-way for inspection, maintenance, and repairs for the life of the project. Temporary construction rights-of-way for pipeline installation would generally be less than 75 feet in width. Temporary construction staging areas may be leased for materials stockpiling and may be up to 2 acres in area. These areas would be disturbed areas, generally adjacent to roadways. 3.6.1 General Construction Methods The pipelines would be installed using conventional open trench construction techniques. The pipelines would be constructed of reinforced concrete cylinder pipe (RCCP), welded steel pipe (WSP), reinforced concrete pipe (RCP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Vitrified Clay Pipe (VCP), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Closed Profile Polyvinyl Chloride (Vylon) and Ductile Iron Pipe (DIP), typically delivered and installed in 6 to 50-foot-long sections. The majority of the construction would be open cut trenching. Pipe sections would be placed in a trench of varying depth depending on pipe size and topography and covered using conventional equipment such as backhoes, side-boom cranes, wheeled loaders, sheep’s- foot compactors and excavators. Typically, earth cover over the pipe would be 5-feet. Variations to this depth would be required to accommodate local topography, hydraulic grade and utility congestion among other factors. The trench width would be mostly 4 to 10 feet, with widths up to 35 feet to accommodate deep open cut excavations. Due to high water tables in some areas of Ventura County, trench dewatering would be performed during some pipeline installations.
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For portions of the alignment where it is not feasible to perform open cut trenching, tunneling techniques may be utilized, such as boring and jacking, microtunneling or similar methods. These special construction methods would be used in areas where it is difficult to perform open cut trenching such as State highway crossings, flood control channel crossings, stream crossings, high utility congestion areas, etc. Additionally, a portion of the pipeline may be constructed within bridge cells at the Adolfo Road extension over Conejo Creek. The width of the disturbance corridor for the pipeline construction would, under typical circumstances, vary from 50 to 65 feet depending on the size of the pipe being installed. Boring and jacking or micro-tunneling may require larger areas to facilitate construction. Typically, work tasks are anticipated to proceed in the following order: • Clearing, grubbing and grading the rights-of-way; • Trenching and hauling of excess spoils; • Relocation of utilities if required; • Delivery of the pipe and pipe bedding material; • Installation of pipe bedding material; • Installation of the pipe; • Backfilling the trench; • Hydrostatic testing; and • Restoration of the rights-of-way. Construction may occur year-round, and would typically occur between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, unless otherwise specified by the affected jurisdiction. Typical pipeline installation rates would be about 200 feet per day. All construction activities would be restricted to the rights-of-way approved by the applicable landowner or agency. Construction activities may include trenching, spoil handling, pipeline installation, backfilling and restoration and vehicle ingress and egress. All roadways disturbed during pipeline installation would be restored. Generally, trench spoils would be temporarily stockpiled within the construction easement, then backfilled to the trench after pipeline installation. Based upon an installation rate of 200 feet per day, the average amount of excess spoils requiring removal would be approximately 100 to 200 cubic yards per day. This would require approximately 10 to 20 truck trips per day per construction team. The average daily number of trucks hauling material to and from a typical construction team (including the delivery of pipe sections, miscellaneous supplies, hauling of imported sand and removal of excess spoils) would be about 35. Staging for the project would be dependent upon the contractor and subcontractors. Typically, the pipe would be brought to the site just ahead of construction and staged along the alignment ready for placement. Equipment and other construction materials may require a storage site. If the contractor is local, they may stage equipment and materials in their own yard. Alternately and in the case of contractors from outside of the area, staging would likely be accomplished at strategic locations on leased land along selected alignments of the pipeline.
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Tunneling methods would be used to cross under major streets, highways, flood control channels, creeks and railroads. CMWD would utilize the most cost-effective method depending upon geologic and hydrologic conditions encountered at final crossing sites. Potential methods include jack and bore, micro-tunneling, or directional-tunneling. The following discussion describes the major types of construction scenarios anticipated to be encountered. Please note that it is impossible to anticipate the type of construction to be utilized at each location; however, the following descriptions provide a general concept of proposed construction activities. 3.6.2 Small Urban or Rural Streets This environment is characterized by single or multiple family residences or open rural areas with low traffic volume, mostly two lane streets and the presence of only smaller utility lines within the streets. Construction of a pipeline through this environment are assumed to have the following components: • Cutting and replacement of pavement, which may include the resurfacing of portions of or the entire street width, depending on local agency requirements. • Removal of excess trench spoil to the local landfill for use as cover material, or storage for re-use at other construction sites; • Limited construction staging area for larger diameter pipes in residential areas. • No rights-of-way purchase requirements when in public streets. • Service laterals would have to be either protected or relocated. 3.6.3 Large Urban Streets This type of environment differs from small urban or rural streets in the larger size of streets, higher traffic volume and the possibility of containing a higher density of utility lines. Large urban street construction may include: • Cutting and replacement of pavement, which may include the resurfacing of portions of or the entire street width, depending on local agency requirements. • Removal of excess trench spoil to the local landfill for use as cover material, or storage for re-use at other construction sites; • Light to medium traffic control and close coordination with local residents and property owners. • Construction staging is limited by traffic and traffic control requirements. • Limitations on construction during peak traffic periods. • No rights-of-way purchase requirements. • Utilities may be larger, more difficult to cross and require relocation.
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3.6.4 Large Rural Streets These streets generally serve only the occasional single family dwelling, agricultural operations or small commercial land uses. As observed in the field, these rural streets also have a low traffic volume, but high travel speeds due to their rather remote and straight alignments. Typically, these areas are surrounded by agricultural or ranch developments. Pipeline installation in large rural streets may involve the following components: • Cutting and replacement of pavement, which may include the resurfacing of portions of or the entire street width, depending on local agency requirements. • Removal of excess trench spoil to the local landfill for use as cover material, or storage for re-use at other construction sites; • Medium to heavy traffic control and close coordination with local residents and property owners. • Construction staging is limited by traffic and traffic control requirements. • No rights-of-way purchase requirements if the road is within public rights-of-way. Additional temporary construction rights-of-way may be required in private lands adjoining narrow roadways or where the street rights-of-way is too narrow to stage the pipeline construction. 3.6.5 Open Land This area is defined by the lack of residential, commercial or industrial development in the immediate vicinity of the pipeline alignment. Although considered open land, an occasional road, railroad or other crossing may be encountered. Open land may either be privately or State owned. Generally, components of open land development construction include: • No pavement cutting or replacement. • Removal of excess trench spoil to the local landfill for use as cover material, or storage for re-use at other construction sites; • No traffic control but possible close coordination with local and State agencies in relation to environmental impacts (evaluation not within the scope of this report). • Temporary and permanent rights-of-way may need to be purchased depending on ownership. • Utilities, if at all encountered, would be larger transmission lines and may be more difficult to cross and require relocation 3.6.6 Ventura County Flood Control District Rights-of-Way Construction within flood control rights-of-way generally requires aligning the pipeline within an existing access road along the flood control channel. The channel may be earthen, fully or partially concrete-lined or some combination. This environment requires a narrow construction corridor, potentially eliminating a parallel staging area. Construction of a pipeline through this environment may have the following components:
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• No pavement cutting or replacement, unpaved access roads must be replaced in kind. • Removal of excess trench spoil to the local landfill for use as cover material, or storage for re-use at other construction sites; • Storage of spoils adjacent to the trench may not be possible due to the limited width and may require short hauls to off-site locations until needed to refill and recompact trench. • No traffic control, but coordination with the VCFCD in relation to construction within their rights-of-way would be required. • Construction may be restricted during the rainy season (November to April) to reduce groundwater dewatering requirements and the potential for storm damage. • Right-of-way would most likely need to be purchased in some areas, as VCFCD has flood control rights only and does not own many of the properties through which it conveys water. • Utilities could include large storm drains feeding flood control channels, and other small utilities paralleling or crossing the channels. Some flood channel access roads have wastewater lines within them and would have to be avoided. 3.6.7 Rural Private Property Pipeline installation in this environment may require rights-of-way to be purchased from the property owner for construction and maintenance. These lands are generally agricultural with no structures requiring removal or replacement during the course of construction. Agricultural crops may, depending on the crop and season, require removal and reimbursement. Construction of a pipeline through this environment may have the following components: • No pavement cutting or replacement, unpaved access roads must be replaced in kind. • Removal of excess trench spoil to the local landfill for use as cover material, or storage for re-use at other construction sites; • No traffic control, but coordination with the property owner to avoid conflicts with agricultural activities may be required. • No anticipated limitations on daily construction hours. • Temporary and permanent rights-of-way would need to be purchased through each property. The majority of the pipeline alignment through rural private property is adjacent to unmaintained earthen flood control channels not owned by VCFCD. • Utilities are not anticipated, but if any are encountered, they should be smaller distribution lines and not difficult to cross.
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3.6.8 Major Surface Structure Crossings Included within this category are railroads, flood control channels, drainage ditches and State highways. Each crossing is unique and requires special attention due to the complexity of the construction methods utilized. These methods may vary widely depending on field restrictions such as available construction area, utility interference and contractor’s preferred method of construction. It is assumed that boring and jacking would be used to protect the pipeline under major structures. This methodology includes excavating push-pits on each side of the crossing, using a boring machine to excavate a horizontal hole under the major structure, and either inserting a steel casing or directly installing the pipe sections. If a pipe casing is used, pipe sections associated with the crossing are then inserted into the casing and connected to in-place pipe sections. Common features of this type of construction include: • Pavement cutting and replacement would be required in developed areas and as necessary to provide adequate working areas. • Removal of excess boring spoil would be required. Local storage of backfill material may not be available in urban areas and may have to be hauled to a temporary storage site. • Traffic control would be dependant on the area of construction. • Construction staging should not be a problem, as an adequate amount of construction area should be available. • Daily construction hour limitations would be dependant on the area of construction. • Temporary and permanent rights-of-way may need to be purchased because of the comparatively large amount of area required, which may encroach on private lands adjacent to the alignment of the pipeline. • Large and small utilities are anticipated, but with proper utility coordination, the construction of the jacked casing should not pose a problem. 3.6.9 Phase I 3.6.9.1 Schedule The construction of Phase I of the Regional Salinity Management Project is expected to require 24 to 48 months to complete, and is projected to begin in 2003. 3.6.9.2 Construction Equipment and Personnel During peak periods, up to three pipeline construction teams may be working simultaneously, with each team handling all aspects of installation. Workforce requirements for each pipeline construction team is expected to range between 5 and 15 workers. Separate contractors would likely be used for specialized tasks such as major structure crossings and construction of the diversion structure.
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3.7 PROJECT OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE 3.7.1 Operation The project is likely to be managed by a separate enterprise comprised of the Calleguas Municipal Water District and other participating agencies, tentatively named the Calleguas Creek Watershed Authority (Authority). Establishment of the Authority would ensure that the costs and benefits of the project are attributed to the beneficiaries of the project and not borne by others within CMWD. 3.7.2 Maintenance Access roads would not be required along the permanent easement for Phase I of the proposed pipeline system. Portions of the Phase II alignment may require access roads for maintenance purposes. Compatible agricultural operations would be allowed to continue within the permanent easement. 3.7.3 Monitoring 3.7.3.1 Pipeline Integrity Operating procedures would be developed, including monitoring and inspection methods and requirements. Currently, it is expected that flow meters would be installed at each input to the pipeline and at the diversion structure near the ocean outfall. These flow meters would be monitored to determine the wastewater/brine discharge rate to the ocean, and to help identify the source of pipeline failure (reduced flow rates), should it occur. Valves would be provided at each of the inputs to the pipeline to terminate flow, should a pipe break occur. 3.7.3.2 Ocean Outfall Water Quality CMWD would be responsible for augmenting existing water quality sampling at the Ormond Beach outfall, as required by the Regional Water Quality Control Board. Constituents monitored may include organics, metals and suspended solids.
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Figure 3-3. Segment F-G of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment
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Figure 3-4. Segment G-H of the Phase I Pipeline Alignment (click to view)
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Figure 3-5. Segments A-B, B-C of the Phase II Pipeline Alignment
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Figure 3-6. Segment C-D of the Phase II Preferred Pipeline Alignment
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Figure 3-7. Segment D-E of the Phase II Preferred Pipeline Alignment
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Figure 3-8. Segment E-F of the Phase II Preferred Pipeline Alignment
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4.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION This section of the EIR provides a comparative analysis of the merits of alternatives to the proposed project pursuant to Section 15126.6 of the State CEQA Guidelines. According to the Guidelines, the discussion of alternatives should focus on alternatives to a project or its location that would feasibly meet the basic objectives of the project while avoiding or substantially lessening the significant effects of the project. The CEQA Guidelines indicate that the range of alternatives included in this discussion should be sufficient to allow decision- makers a reasoned choice between alternatives and a proposed project. The alternatives discussion should provide decision-makers with an understanding of the environmental merits and disadvantages of various project alternatives The range of alternatives in an EIR is governed by a “rule of reason” that requires the EIR to set forth only those alternatives necessary to make a reasoned choice. The alternatives shall be limited to ones that would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 [f]). Of those alternatives, the EIR need examine in detail only the ones that the lead agency determines could feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project. The range of feasible alternatives shall be selected and discussed in a manner to foster meaningful public participation and informed decision-making. When addressing feasibility, the CEQA Guidelines state that “among the factors that may be taken into account when addressing the feasibility of alternatives are site suitability, economic viability, availability of infrastructure, general plan consistency, other plans or regulatory limitations, jurisdictional boundaries (projects with a regionally significant impact should consider the regional context), and whether the proponent can reasonably acquire, control or otherwise have access to the alternative site (or the site is already owned by the proponent).” The CEQA Guidelines also state that the alternative discussion need not be presented in the same level of detail as the assessment of the proposed project. Therefore, based on the CEQA Guidelines, several factors need to be considered in determining the range of alternatives to be analyzed in an EIR and the level of detail of analysis that should be provided. These factors include: (1) the nature of the significant impacts of the proposed project; (2) the ability of alternatives to avoid or substantially lessen impacts associated with the project; (3) the ability of the alternatives to meet most of the basic objectives of the project; and (4) the feasibility of the alternatives. The Council on Environmental Quality regulations (40 CFR 1508.9) require an Environmental Assessment to include a discussion of alternatives to the proposed action. NEPA does not require that an agency consider every possible alternative, but requires that the range be comprehensive so the agency can make a “reasoned choice” among them. Alternatives selected for analysis should fulfill the requirements of the purpose and need of the project. . Alternatives selected for analysis should fulfill the requirements of the purpose and need of the project.
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4.1 ALTERNATIVE BRINE DISPOSAL METHODS CEQA Guidelines §15148 recognizes that “the preparation of EIRs is dependent upon information from many sources, including engineering project reports and many scientific documents relating to environmental features” and provides that these documents should be cited but do not have to be included in the EIR. The CMWD herein incorporates by reference the 1997 Draft Regional Wastewater Reuse and Brackish Groundwater Utilization in Calleguas Service Area (a Strategic Assessment) prepared by Bookman-Edmonston Engineering. Based on a comprehensive analysis of regional salinity management issues by Bookman-Edmonston Engineering (1997), the only feasible method to reduce salinity concentrations in the watershed is wastewater and groundwater treatment. The following alternatives address the issue of brine disposal. 4.1.1 Injection Well Alternative Deep well injection would entail the injection of brine into the underlying geologic formations. The main concern with respect to deep well injection is the potential for degradation of groundwater supplies through the introduction of organic and inorganic contaminants. For this alternative, sufficient wells must be constructed to enable injection at the desired rates of flow. Bookman-Edmonston Engineering (1997) completed a preliminary feasibility and cost assessment, and identified one possible site for the injection wells as the Sespe formation which crops out in the Las Posas Hills on the southeastern margin of the South Las Posas Basin and in the Santa Susana Mountains on the northern boundary of the Simi Valley Basin. These deep injection wells could be used to dispose of brine produced by treatment of groundwater from the Simi Valley Dewatering wells and South Las Posas wells. Bookman-Edmonston Engineering (1997) estimated that twelve 2,000-foot-deep injection wells, two pumping plants and two transmission pipelines would be required to handle a brine flow rate of 2,300 acre-feet per year. Using these rates of injection, over a projected 20-year life span of the proposed project, the estimated total amount of brine injected (46,000 acre-feet) would occupy about 2 to 3 percent of the available storage capacity of the Sespe formation. However, additional geologic and hydrologic studies would be required to fully determine the total disposal capacity, the available disposal rate and potential for aquifer contamination. In addition, deep well injection could only handle a small portion of the expected effluent stream identified in Table 3-1. Even if the Sespe Formation could handle all of the wastewater and brine identified in Table 3-1 without aquifer degradation, the pipeline system needed to transport it to the injection wells would be more extensive than that identified for the proposed project. This potential alternative would result in the percolation of high salinity water into the aquifers of the Sespe Formation, concentrating salts from adjacent basins, and would not result in a net reduction of salts in the Ventura Central groundwater basins. Therefore, this alternative does not meet the project objective of proper management of high salinity groundwater. Therefore, deep well injection is not considered feasible, and is not assessed any further as an alternative in this document.
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4.1.2 Local Concentration and Evaporation Ponds Alternative Under this alternative, brine would be disposed through evaporation. The large amount of land required for this alternative may be decreased by reducing the volume of the brine by the application of concentration processes such as electrodialysis reversal (EDR) or vapor compression evaporation (VCE). Evaporation ponds would need to be lined to prevent the seepage of the high saline content water into the underlying groundwater basin. The evaporation ponds may become ineffective and operate at reduced effective rates during wet weather months. This means that brine disposal may not be possible for as many as 3 to 4 months per year. The residual brine must be removed and disposed of on a frequent basis. Disposal may be achieved by removing, hauling to and disposal of the residual brine at certified landfills and/or the residual brine may be marketed and sold for industrial uses. This alternative is not feasible due to physical (lack of available land for ponds), operational (lack of wet season disposal) and economic reasons (high cost of additional brine treatment, residual brine removal and off-site disposal), and is not considered further. 4.1.3 Wetlands Enhancement A draft Concept Report was prepared by Kennedy/Jenks Consultants (1999) to address the potential for brine to be used to enhance coastal wetlands. This Report identified existing salinity management practices in the CMWD service area, potential beneficiaries of wetland enhancement, regulatory requirements of wetland enhancement, regulatory feasibility of wetland enhancement and a conceptual plan for wetlands enhancement as part of a regional salinity management program. Wetlands considered for enhancement include the North Ormond Beach wetlands (southern terminus of Perkins Road), McWane Boulevard Wetlands (western terminus of McWane Boulevard, South Ormond Beach Wetlands (surrounding the Ormond Beach power plant) and the Ventura County and Point Mugu Game preserves. Plans have been developed for wetland restoration at the South Ormond Beach wetlands, including methods to reduce soil salinity (Jones and Stokes 1995). Brine disposal could be integrated into these plans and provide increased aquatic habitat and waterfowl habitat, while removing nutrients. However, at this time there is no immediate need for such water due to property ownership and regulatory concerns. CMWD plans to work with involved agencies and property owners to facilitate implementation of this concept. The potential benefits and impacts of wetland enhancement are not addressed in this document, due to uncertainty regarding wetland location, flow rates and operating procedures. These uncertainties include competing interests for land use in the Ormond Beach area, for residential, commercial and industrial projects, which may prevent wetland expansion and enhancement. In any case, wetlands in the Ormond Beach area could only accommodate a fraction of the design flow of the proposed pipeline. Therefore, wetlands enhancement, while a potential benefit of the project, would not meet the objectives of the project and is not considered a feasible alternative.
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4.1.4 Instream Disposal This method would involve the discharge of brine into Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas, Conejo Creek and Calleguas Creek. However, brine discharge would exacerbate the salinity problem by allowing brine to infiltrate into groundwater basins. In addition, such discharge would exceed water quality objectives for TDS, chloride and other constituents. Therefore, instream disposal is not a feasible alternative for brine disposal, and is not considered further. 4.1.5 No Project/No Action Alternative This alternative consists of the continuance of existing conditions, with no physical changes to the environment. However, TDS and chloride concentrations in local groundwater would continue to increase, and municipal wastewater would continue to be reclaimed with the excess discharged to adjacent surface waters. 4.2 ALTERNATIVE PIPELINE ALIGNMENTS The Regional Brine Lines Sizing and Alignment Study prepared for CMWD by Perliter and Ingalsbe Consulting Engineers in April, 2001 identified a preferred alignment for the pipeline system (see Figure 3-2) and numerous alternative alignments. Several alternative alignments for each pipeline segment were examined in detail in the Perliter and Ingalsbe study. Advantages and disadvantages of each alternative alignment were evaluated, and a preferred alignment was selected for each pipeline segment. The alternative alignments presented below were considered less feasible due to construction cost, permit requirements and other factors. However, future analysis may result in new information that could change the selection of alignments for Phase II. A summary of the Phase I and Phase II alternative alignments is provided in Table 4-1. It is important to realize the pipeline alignments as shown in the Figures and described below represent a 300-foot-wide environmental assessment corridor, to allow for minor changes in the alignment to avoid utilities, levees, roadways and other structures. However, the actual width of disturbance would generally be less than 75 feet. For the purposes of impact assessment within the 300-foot-wide corridor, the following assumptions were made: 1. The pipe would be located at least 20 feet away from the top of the adjacent stream bank for pipeline alignments located parallel to channelized drainages (to avoid exposure due to erosion); 2. All major stream crossings (Calleguas Creek, Revolon Slough, Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas, Conejo Creek) would be completed by tunneling, such that the disturbance corridor would exclude the bed and banks of the affected drainages; and 3. Minor streams (e.g. Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon and other small drainages) would be crossed using trenching methods, such that the disturbance corridor would include the bed and banks of the affected drainages.
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Table 4-1. Summary of the Alternative Pipeline Alignments Length Segment Alternative Endpoints (miles) Phase I F-G A Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility to the Hueneme Road/Arnold Road intersection 6.8 A Hueneme Road/Arnold Road intersection to the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant 2.4 G-H B Hueneme Road/Arnold Road intersection to the Ormond Beach power plant 2.7 A 9.2 Total B 9.5 Phase II A 8.5 B-C Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant B 8.4 A 6.6 C-D Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant to where Adolfo Road crosses Calleguas Creek B 6.8 A 7.6 D-E B Adolfo Road crossing of Calleguas Creek to Lewis Road crossing of Calleguas Creek 6.4 C 5.9 E-F A Lewis Road crossing of Calleguas Creek to near Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility 1.3
4.2.1 Phase I 4.2.1.1 Segment F-G: Alternative Alignment A (Figure 3-3) This alternative alignment is the same as the preferred alignment for approximately the first 7,400 feet, then east of Las Posas Road, the pipeline alignment would leave Hueneme Road to follow just outside existing Southern California Edison properties which are generally parallel to and north of Hueneme Road. The pipeline would follow the north side of the Southern California Edison properties, keeping parallel to the existing electric transmission towers. The alignment would cross under Las Posas Road, Revolon Slough, Wood Road, Nauman Road, Highway 1 and turn south down Olds Road to Hueneme Road. The total length of this segment is approximately 35,700 feet (6.8 miles), with 3,400 feet within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way, 8,100 feet within or adjacent to public road rights-of-way, and 24,200 feet on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 54 inches in diameter. 4.2.1.2 Segment G-H: Alternative Alignment A (Figure 3-4) This segment begins at the intersection of Hueneme Road and Arnold Road, and continues to follow Hueneme Road to its intersection with Perkins Road (see Figure 3-4). This alternative would then turn south along Perkins Road to the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This segment would terminate at the proposed diversion structure (see Section 4.2.1.4). The pipe is expected to be approximately 54 inches in diameter. The total length of this segment is approximately 12,500 feet, entirely within or adjacent to the Hueneme Road and Perkins Road rights-of-way.
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A diversion structure would be required as an interconnection between proposed Segment G-H Alternative Alignment A and the existing ocean outfall used by the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This alternative ocean outfall is described in Section 4.3. The diversion structure would be located within an area about 100 feet by 150 feet, located on or within 300 feet of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant property. The facility would include pipes, valves, vaults, masonry buildings and controls as necessary to allow remote, local and manual operation of the facility. 4.2.1.3 Segment G-H: Alternative Alignment B (Figure 3-4) Continuing west along Hueneme Road to Arnold Road, this alternative alignment would turn south on Arnold Road, and would follow Arnold Road until its termination point near a bridge which crosses over the Oxnard Drain. The alignment would cross the Oxnard Drain and then turn northwest along a small unpaved road/trail towards the Ormond Beach power plant. About 800 feet southwest of the power plant, the pipeline alignment would turn north and cross under the Oxnard Drain again, following the western property line of the power plant on the upper beach. The alignment would continue until it terminates at a diversion structure to be constructed south of the Ormond Beach power plant near the ocean outfall. The diversion structure would be very similar to that described in Section 3.4.3. Maintaining the pipeline and diversion structure would require the construction of an asphalt access road adjacent to or above the buried pipeline. Depending on the rate of sand migration, a small wall may have to be constructed to protect the access road from sand inundation. The total length of this segment is approximately 14,400 feet (2.7 miles), 9,200 feet within or adjacent to public road rights-of-way, and 5,200 feet on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 54 inches in diameter. A diversion structure would be required as an interconnection between Segment G-H Alternative Alignment B and the existing ocean outfall used by the Ormond Beach power plant. The diversion structure would be located within an area about 100 feet by 150 feet, located immediately south of the power plant, on land owned by Southern California Edison. The facility would include pipes, valves, vaults, masonry buildings and controls as necessary to allow remote, local and manual operation of the facility. 4.2.2 Phase II 4.2.2.1 Segment B-C: Alternative Alignment A (Figure 3-5) This alternative alignment would turn west from the Simi Valley WQCP and follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi westward to a railroad bridge, then turn southwest to cross under Arroyo Simi and follow the south side of the railroad tracks outside the railroad property. Continuing south and parallel to the railroad tracks, this alternative would cross Arroyo Simi two more times before crossing under the Highway 23 transition/Highway 118 bridges. Past Highway 23, the alignment would cross under Arroyo Simi again, and turn south along the VCFCD access road on the bank of Arroyo Simi. Proceeding southwest, the alignment would cross under New Los Angeles Avenue and Spring Road. The alignment would continue along the VCFCD access road to Hitch Road, and intersect the preferred alignment.
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The total length of this segment (including the portion from Hitch Road to the MWTP) is approximately 44,900 feet (8.5 miles), with 1,100 feet within or adjacent to the roadway rights- of-way, 28,500 feet within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way, and 15,300 feet on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 24 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment B-C would require one railroad crossing, at least nine creek crossings and one highway crossing (SR 23). 4.2.2.2 Segment B-C: Alternative Alignment B (Figure 3-5) This alternative alignment would be the same as the preferred Segment B-C alignment from the Simi Valley WQCP to the intersection of Moorpark Avenue and High Street. However, instead of following the north side of the railroad tracks, this alternative would turn south onto Moorpark Avenue for a short block where it crosses two sets of railroad tracks. The alignment would then turn west on Poindexter Avenue and then south on Gabbert Road. Proceeding south, the alignment would turn west on Los Angeles Avenue, and follow Los Angeles Avenue to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant. The total length of this segment (including portions from the Simi Valley WQCP to Moorpark Avenue) is approximately 44,500 feet (8.4 miles), with 39,600 feet within or adjacent to roadway rights-of-way, and 4,900 feet on private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 24 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment B-C would require five railroad crossings, seven creek crossings and one highway crossing (SR 23). 4.2.2.3 Segment C-D: Alternative Alignment A (Figure 3-6) This alternative alignment would follow Los Angeles Avenue westward crossing under the railroad tracks to Somis Road, then turn south along Somis Road to Upland Road. This alternative would extend southwest along Lewis Road (known as Somis Road north of Upland Road) until it meets Adolfo Road, where it would turn southeast along Adolfo Road and terminates at the west bank of Calleguas Creek at Point D. The total length of this segment is approximately 35,000 feet (6.6 miles), entirely within or adjacent to roadway rights-of-ways. The pipe is expected to be approximately 24 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment C-D would require one railroad crossing and four creek crossings. 4.2.2.4 Segment C-D: Alternative Alignment B (Figure 3-6) This alternative alignment is the same as the preferred Segment C-D alignment up to where it approaches the railroad tracks near Los Angeles Avenue. At this point, the alternative alignment would head northwest and cross the railroad tracks, and parallel the railroad tracks to the vicinity of Rice Street, where it would cross to the south side of the railroad tracks. The alignment would then turn southwest towards Arroyo Simi and follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi to Upland Road. The alternative alignment would then turn southeast onto Upland Road to Flynn Road, where it would turn southwest. The alignment would continue along Flynn Road to Adolfo Road, where it would turn southeast on Adolfo Road and terminate at Point D. The total length of this segment is approximately 35,900 feet (6.8 miles), with 6,500 feet within or adjacent to roadway rights-of-way and 29,400 feet within private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 24 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment C-D would require two railroad crossings and four creek crossings.
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4.2.2.5 Segment D-E: Alternative Alignment A (Figure 3-7) This alternative alignment is the same as the preferred Segment D-E alignment up to where it crosses Pleasant Valley Road. At this point, the alternative alignment would turn west on Pleasant Valley Road, then turn south on Lewis Road, to the west bank of Calleguas Creek (Point E2). The alignment would follow along the west bank of Calleguas Creek to the confluence with Conejo Creek, then follow the west bank of Conejo Creek to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Camarillo WRP), Point E1. The total length of this segment is approximately 40,300 feet (7.6 miles), with 16,300 feet within or adjacent to roadway rights-of-way, 7,500 feet within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way and 16,500 feet within private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 30 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment D-E would require one creek crossing and one highway crossing (U.S. 101). 4.2.2.6 Segment D-E: Alternative Alignment B (Figure 3-7) The alternative alignment would cross Calleguas Creek at Adolfo Road, follow Adolfo Road to the east to Conejo Creek, and cross Conejo Creek using the bridge cells reserved for the future Adolfo Road Bridge. The alignment would turn southwest and follow the access road on the east bank of Conejo Creek to U.S. 101, cross under U.S. 101 and continue southwest along the Conejo Creek access road to Ridge View Street where it would cross to the west bank of Conejo Creek. The alignment would then follow the access road on the west bank of Conejo Creek to the Camarillo WRP (Point E2). The alignment from Point E1 to Point E2 would be the same as the preferred alignment, or may follow along Conejo Creek to Point E2. The total length of this segment (including portions to E1 and E2) is approximately 33,600 feet (6.4 miles), with 9,600 feet within or adjacent to roadway rights-of-way, 2,100 feet within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way and 21,900 feet within private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 30 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment D-E would require four creek crossings and one highway crossing (U.S. 101). 4.2.2.7 Segment D-E: Alternative Alignment C (Figure 3-7) This alternative alignment would cross Calleguas Creek at Adolfo Road, follow Adolfo Road to the east to Camino Ruiz, and turn south on Camino Ruiz to U.S. 101. The alignment would be parallel and north of U.S. 101, then cross under U.S. 101 and follow parallel and south of U.S. 101 to Conejo Creek. The alignment would then follow the access road on the west bank of Conejo Creek to Adohr Lane, where it would become the same as Alternative Alignment B, extending to the Camarillo WRP. The alignment from Point E1 to Point E2 would be the same as the preferred alignment, or may follow along Conejo Creek as per Alternative Alignment B. The total length of this segment (including portions to E1 and E2) is approximately 31,000 feet (5.9 miles), with 9,300 feet within or adjacent to roadway rights-of-way and 21,700 feet within or adjacent to private property. The pipe is expected to be approximately 30 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment D-E would require two creek crossings and one highway crossing (U.S. 101).
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4.2.2.8 Segment E-F: Alternative Alignment A (Figure 3-8) This alternative alignment would immediately cross Calleguas Creek to the southeast, and follow the access road on the east bank to intersect the Phase I pipeline near the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF). The total length of this segment is approximately 6,700 feet (1.3 miles), entirely within or adjacent to the VCFCD rights-of-way. The pipe is expected to be approximately 30 inches in diameter. Installation of this alternative for Segment E-F would require one creek crossing. 4.3 ALTERNATIVE OCEAN OUTFALL The alternative pipeline alignment (Segment G-H Alternative A) would terminate at, and discharge into the existing outfall used by the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This outfall is located directly seaward of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant, and extends 5,950 feet offshore. The water depth in this region is approximately 50 feet. The terminal end of the outfall is perforated, forming a diffuser.
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5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 5.1 LAND USE 5.1.1 Affected Environment The proposed project area is within the Calleguas Creek Watershed which is located in the southern portion of Ventura County. The watershed includes physical features such as mountains, plains, valleys and beaches. Primary drainages of the Watershed include Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas, Calleguas Creek, Conejo Creek, Arroyo Conejo and Revolon Slough. These drainages ultimately terminate in coastal wetlands at Mugu Lagoon. Within the watershed, urban development is concentrated primarily within the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Thousand Oaks, and Camarillo. Each of these cities remain as distinct entities due to intervening topographic features (e.g., hills) and land uses such as open space and agriculture. Large productive agricultural areas also occur within the watershed. These areas include the Oxnard Plain, Las Posas Valley, Santa Rosa Valley and Tierra Rejada Valley. 5.1.1.1 Applicable Plans and Policies The proposed project would be subject to the general plan policies of the applicable jurisdiction traversed by each project component, including Ventura County and the cities of Oxnard, Camarillo, Moorpark and Simi Valley. The proposed project would also be subject to regional plans such as Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Agency’s Groundwater Management Plan, and the City of Oxnard’s Coastal Land Use Plan. 5.1.1.2 Proposed Action Phase I. Segment F-G. This segment would cross Calleguas Creek and Revolon Slough. For the majority of this segment, the alignment would be located within the Lewis Road and Hueneme Road rights-of-way and the Ventura County Flood Control District (VCFCD) rights-of- way. The alignment would also cross under State Route (SR) 1. The only non-agricultural land use along this alignment is a small amount of commercial land uses adjacent to SR 1. The California State University at Channel Islands is located approximately 2,500 feet east of the proposed pipeline terminus at the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility. This segment is located within unincorporated Ventura County. Figure 5.1-2 provides photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. Segment G-H. This segment is characterized by level areas dominated by agricultural uses, except for the Ormond Beach power plant located adjacent to the Pacific Ocean at the termination of the segment. Figure 5.1-2 provides photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. The pipeline would be located within the rights-of way of Hueneme Road and Edison Drive. Most of this segment is located within the City of Oxnard, but the easterly portion is in unincorporated Ventura County.
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Diversion Structure. This structure would function as an interconnection between the proposed pipeline and the existing ocean outfall used by the Ormond Beach power plant at Ormond Beach. The Diversion Structure would be located within an area of about 100 feet by 150 feet, located immediately north of the power plant and immediately west of the terminus of Edison Road, on land currently owned by the Metropolitan Water District. The land use designation of the power plant area is Coastal Energy Facility (EC) in Oxnard’s Coastal Land Use Plan and Public Utility/Energy Facilities in the City’s 2020 General Plan. The proposed Diversion Structure site is designated Coastal Dependent Industrial (CDI) in the Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan, and Industrial in the City’s 2020 General Plan. Phase II. Segment A-B. This segment would be located entirely within roadway rights-of-way from the Simi dewatering wells to the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant (Simi Valley WQCP). The entire segment is located within the City of Simi Valley. Open space including Tierra Rejada Park and Arroyo Simi is located south of the eastern portion of the alignment. Industrial uses are located both north and south of the alignment and residential uses are also located south of the alignment. Figure 5.1-3 provides photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. Segment B-C. This segment would connect the Simi Valley WQCP and the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant. The alignment would generally follow the Union Pacific Railroad, but would also follow roadways including Hitch Boulevard, Gabbert Road, Poindexter Avenue, High Street, Los Angeles Avenue and Easy Street. This alignment would include several creek crossings, railroad crossings and roadway crossings (SR 118, SR 23 and Spring Road). This segment alignment passes through unincorporated Ventura County, the City of Moorpark and the City of Simi Valley. Agriculture and open space are the prevalent land uses in the vicinity of the pipeline alignment. However, residential and industrial land uses are more common within the cities of Moorpark and Simi Valley. Figure 5.1-3 provides photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. Segment C-D. This segment would extend from the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant to Adolfo Road crossing of Calleguas Creek. It would be located along the north bank of the Arroyo Las Posas until reaching Upland Road near St. John’s Seminary, then continue along the north bank of Calleguas Creek to Adolfo Road. This area is characterized by open space including vast areas under agricultural cultivation and the riparian corridors of the Arroyo Las Posas and Calleguas Creek. This segment extends through the City of Camarillo and unincorporated Ventura County. Residential uses in the City of Camarillo exist in proximity to the proposed alignment (e.g., rear yards of Talud Terrace and Tranquila Drive). Figure 5.1-4 provides photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area.
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Segment D-E2. This segment would extend from Adolfo Road to the Lewis Road bridge along Calleguas Creek and would include a connection to the Camarillo Sanitary District Wastewater Reclamation Plant. Much of this segment would parallel Calleguas Creek. However, a portion would be within the rights-of-way for Rancho Road and Howard Road. The pipeline would cross under U.S. 101. The southern portion of this segment is in an area that is generally agricultural (unincorporated Ventura County). However, the northern portion of the segment is located within a developed portion of the City of Camarillo. Land uses within the City of Camarillo adjacent to the pipeline alignment include residential, public park and industrial uses. Figure 5.1-5 provides photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. Segment E2-F. This segment would be located along the west bank of Calleguas Creek, would be located on private property and would extend from the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility to the intersection of Lewis Road and Calleguas Creek. This segment is located within an agricultural area of unincorporated Ventura County. Figure 5.1-6 provides photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. 5.1.1.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Segment F-G (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would be similar to the preferred alignment except that most of the alignment would be located about 2,500 feet north of and parallel to Hueneme Road rather than in the Hueneme Road rights-of-way. Land use along this corridor is agricultural. Segment G-H (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would be similar to the preferred alignment except it would continue west on Hueneme Road past the intersection with Edison Road and the turn south toward the ocean along Perkins Road to the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This segment would cross the Ventura County Railroad tracks twice. Segment G-H is characterized by relatively flat land occupied by industrial (e.g. aluminum and paper manufacturing, etc.) and agricultural uses. Along the alignment, these uses transition to the Ormond Beach area which contains brackish wetlands with sand dunes and the beach beyond. The pipeline would be located within the rights-of-way of Hueneme Road and Perkins Road. Most of this segment is located within the City of Oxnard, but the easterly portion is in unincorporated Ventura County. This segment would terminate at a diversion structure to be located immediately south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Diversion Structure would be located immediately west of the terminus of Perkins Road within an area of about 100 feet by 150 feet. This area is designated Coastal Visitor Serving Commercial (CVC) in the Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan.
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Figure 5.1-1. Existing Land Uses on Segment F-G (click to view)
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Figure 5.1-2. Existing Land Uses on Segment G-H (click to view)
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Figure 5.1-3. Existing Land Uses on Segments A-C (click to view)
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Figure 5.1-4. Existing Land Uses on Segment C-D (click to view)
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Figure 5.1-5. Existing Land Uses on Segment D-E2 (click to view)
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Figure 5.1-6. Existing Land Uses on Segment E2-F (click to view)
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Segment G-H (Alternative Alignment B). This segment would extend south from Hueneme Road along Arnold Road, and then turn west following the Oxnard Drain toward the Ormond Beach power plant. It would terminate at the diversion structure to be constructed near the ocean outfall. Land use in proximity to the alignment is agricultural. The Oxnard Drain is a flood control structure with coastal wetlands and beaches to the south. The Diversion Structure would be located within an area of about 100 feet by 150 feet, located immediately south of the power plant, on land currently owned by Southern California Edison. The land use designation of the power plant area is Coastal Energy Facility (EC) in Oxnard’s Coastal Land Use Plan and Public Utility/Energy Facilities in the 2020 General Plan. The area immediately west and south of the power plant is designated Resource Protection (RP) in the Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan and the 2020 Oxnard General Plan. In addition, the RP area is designated sensitive habitat in the Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan. Phase II. Segment B-C (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would turn west from the Simi Valley WQCP and follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi, excluding the central portion, which would follow the Union Pacific Railroad rights-of-way. This alternative would include several creek crossings (Arroyo Simi) and roadway crossings (SR 23 transition/SR 118 bridges, New Los Angeles Avenue and Spring Road). The alignment would continue along the VCFCD access road to Hitch Road, and intersect the preferred alignment. The character of the area is defined more by open space for this alternative than the preferred alignment. Segment B-C (Alternative Alignment B). This segment would be the same as the preferred Segment B-C alignment from the Simi Valley WQCP to the intersection of Moorpark Avenue and High Street. However, instead of following the north side of the railroad tracks, this alternative would turn south onto Moorpark Avenue for a short block where it crosses two sets of railroad tracks. The alignment would then turn west on Poindexter Avenue and then south on Gabbert Road. Proceeding south, the alignment would turn west on Los Angeles Avenue, and follow Los Angeles Avenue to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant. Land uses along the alignment include commercial, residential, light industrial, open space, agriculture and public facility (Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant). Segment C-D (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would follow Los Angeles Avenue westward crossing under the railroad tracks to Somis Road, then turn south along Somis Road to Upland Road. This alternative would extend southwest along Lewis Road (known as Somis Road north of Upland Road) until it meets Adolfo Road, where it would turn southeast along Adolfo Road and terminates at the west bank of Calleguas Creek at Point D. This corridor is relatively flat and characterized mainly by agricultural uses. The corridor includes two creek crossings. The land use along this alternative alignment is primarily agriculture.
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Segment C-D (Alternative Alignment B). This segment varies from the preferred alignment where it approaches the railroad tracks near Los Angeles Avenue. At this point, the alternative alignment would head northwest and cross the railroad tracks, and parallel the railroad tracks to the vicinity of Rice Street, where it would cross to the south side of the railroad tracks. The alignment would then turn southwest towards Arroyo Simi and follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi to Upland Road. The alternative alignment would then turn southeast onto Upland Road to Flynn Road, where it would turn southwest. The alignment would continue along Flynn Road to Adolfo Road, where it would turn southeast on Adolfo Road and terminate at Point D. The land use along this alignment is primarily agriculture. Segment D-E2 (Alternative Alignment A). This segment varies from the preferred alignment where it crosses Pleasant Valley Road. At this point, the alternative alignment would turn west on Pleasant Valley Road, then turn south on Lewis Road, to the west bank of Calleguas Creek (Point E2). The alignment would follow along the west bank of Calleguas Creek to the confluence with Conejo Creek, then follow the west bank of Conejo Creek to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Camarillo WRP), Point E1. Land uses along this alignment are the same as for the preferred alignment (light industrial, residential and agricultural). Segment D-E2 (Alternative Alignment B). This segment would cross Calleguas Creek at Adolfo Road, follow Adolfo Road to the east to Conejo Creek, and cross Conejo Creek. The alignment would then turn southwest and follow the access road on the east bank of Conejo Creek to U.S. 101, cross under U.S. 101 and continue southwest along the Conejo Creek access road to Ridge View Street where it would cross to the west bank of Conejo Creek. The alignment would then follow the access road on the west bank of Conejo Creek to the Camarillo WRP (Point E2). Land uses along this alignment include residential agriculture and open space. Segment D-E (Alternative Alignment C). This segment would cross Calleguas Creek at Adolfo Road, follow Adolfo Road to the east to Camino Ruiz, and turn south on Camino Ruiz to U.S. 101. The alignment would be parallel and north of U.S. 101, then cross under U.S. 101 and follow parallel and south of U.S. 101 to Conejo Creek. The alignment would then follow the access road on the west bank of Conejo Creek to Adohr Lane, where it would become the same as Alternative Alignment B, extending to the Camarillo WRP. The alignment from Point E1 to Point E2 would be the same as the preferred alignment, or may follow along Conejo Creek as per Alternative Alignment B. Land use along this alignment include agriculture, residential and open space. Segment E-F (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would cross Calleguas Creek to the southeast, and follow the access road on the east bank to intersect the Phase I pipeline near the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF). Since this alternative is basically the same as the preferred alignment except on the other side of the creek, the land use setting discussion for the preferred alternative also applies for this alternative.
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5.1.1.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall The existing outfall is entirely submerged, seaward of the Coastal Zone. 5.1.2 Environmental Consequences Issues related to land use compatibility and the location of sensitive receptors with respect to project components are discussed in other sections of this document. These are air quality and dust (Section 5.3), agricultural resources (Section 5.6), noise (Section 5.7) and visual resources (Section 5.8). These issues are not discussed in this section. 5.1.2.1 Significance Thresholds Impacts are considered significant if they would substantially conflict with established land use plans or policies, or would substantially disrupt the operation of public or private facilities on affected properties due to construction or operational activities. 5.1.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I. Policy Consistency. Project consistency with the policies of the Ventura County General Plan, City of Oxnard 2020 General Plan and City of Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan were assessed. In addition, consistency with the Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Agency’s Groundwater Management Plan was assessed. The Proposed Action is consistent with each of these plans. In fact, the wastewater reclamation and groundwater recovery projects that would serve the proposed pipeline system (see Section 3.3.2 of this document) are considered as water conservation benefits of the Draft Groundwater Management Plan Update. A diversion structure would be located immediately north of the Ormond Beach power plant and would include a masonry structure, valves and associated piping. The precise location of this facility has not been determined; however, it would be located in a CDI zone. The construction and operation of the diversion structure would be consistent with this zoning. Land Use Conflicts. Pipeline installation would be accomplished using open trenching methods in most areas and tunneling methods such as boring and jacking for major crossings including larger creeks and State highways. The method of construction proposed for roadway, State highway and larger creek crossings is such that no direct impacts to these facilities would occur. No new permanent access roads would be required; however, temporary access roads would be constructed within the 75-foot-wide pipeline installation corridor. The only above-ground project components would be a few small valve boxes and the diversion structure. The project design would be consistent with the most current version of “Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction” by Public Works Standards, Inc. All relevant conditions of encroachment permits would be included in the final project plans and specifications to ensure compliance.
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Easements would be obtained as needed from property owners along the pipeline alignments. These may include temporary construction easements and permanent utility easements. Temporary easements would be used for storage and staging of equipment and materials, and permanent easements would accommodate the pipeline. Generally, the pipeline would be located within or immediately adjacent to existing roadway rights-of-way or within agricultural areas. The presence of the pipeline would not displace existing development or preclude future development along these roadway corridors. In addition, the pipeline would be buried at least 5 feet deep, allowing for continued agricultural land use within the permanent pipeline easement. However, pipeline installation would primarily occur within or adjacent to roadway and VCFCD rights-of-way, and would require creek and roadway crossings. These crossings may adversely affect the operation of public works facilities, including roadways and flood control channels. The Ventura County Public Works Agency Transportation Division was contacted with respect to land use impacts to County roads. As with all construction projects, the proposed project would comply with standard encroachment permit conditions, which would include traffic control procedures and payment of appropriate fees for damage to roadway infrastructure among others (Britt, personal communication, July 2001). No significant impacts to roads would occur. Similarly, the City of Oxnard Development Services Director was also contacted with respect to installation of the proposed pipeline within the rights-of-way of City roads. Calleguas Municipal Water District would need to enter a franchise agreement with the City specifying the terms of the project, then an encroachment permit would be issued (Roshanian, personal communication, July 2001). Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction and the specifications of the franchise agreement would be adhered to, and no land use impacts associated with installation of the pipeline in City roads are expected. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) was consulted with respect to the proposed State highway crossings, similar to Ventura County Transportation Division, Caltrans stated that compliance with the encroachment permit procedures and conditions would avoid any significant impacts to State Highways from project construction (Acosta, personal communication, July 2001). VCFCD was consulted with respect to the use of flood control rights-of-way for the proposed project. The permitting manager of this Division stated that the County prefers not to have pipelines located along creeks (Keivanfar, personal communication, July 2001). Additionally, VCFCD has generated new 100-year flood flow rates for the watershed which are higher than those used to prepare the Flood Insurance Rate Maps for the area. Therefore, VCFCD anticipates the future necessity for installing additional flood control improvements to protect land uses from flood waters. Installation of the proposed pipeline within these areas of future work is not desired as it would require relocation of the pipeline. For pipeline areas that are proposed within Ventura County fee ownership areas, Calleguas Municipal Water District would need to obtain an encroachment permit from the VCFCD. The proposed pipeline would be fully buried and would not add fill to flood prone areas, such that no increase in storm water elevations would occur. Any flood control facilities affected during pipeline installation would be fully repaired as part of encroachment permit conditions and construction specifications.
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Upon completion of construction, all pipelines would be subsurface; during the life of the project there is the potential for routine maintenance to occur on the pipeline. Long-term or blanket permits/agreements are provided to utilities by the County Transportation Division, City of Oxnard and Caltrans for the routine inspection and repair of such infrastructure. For pipeline segments within VCFCD rights-of-way, Calleguas would be required to obtain an encroachment permit any time repair work needs to be conducted. Any public works facilities affected during pipeline maintenance would be fully repaired as part of encroachment permit conditions and/or construction specifications. Therefore, no significant land use impacts to roadways are expected. Since the pipeline would be subsurface, it would not result in any other long-term land use conflicts. The existing Ormond Beach power plant outfall would be used. Therefore, no land use impacts would be associated with construction of or modifications of the outfall. The project would need to comply with discharge permits. Therefore, no land use impacts associated with discharge are expected. Phase II. Policy Consistency. The proposed action was assessed for consistency with the policies of the City of Camarillo General Plan, City of Moorpark General Plan, City of Simi Valley General Plan, Ventura County General Plan, and the Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Agency’s Groundwater Management Plan. The proposed action is consistent with all applicable plans and policies. Land Use Conflicts. Construction in Phase II would include continuation of the main pipeline with extensions to various facilities such as the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant, Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant, Simi Valley WQCP and Simi Valley dewatering wells. This phase would be located within the cities of Camarillo, Moorpark, Simi Valley and unincorporated portions of Ventura County. As with Phase I, encroachment permits would be required for pipeline installations in roadways and flood control facilities, and creek and roadway crossings. However, Phase II also includes railroad crossings; therefore, the Real Estate and Utility Division of the Union Pacific Railroad was consulted. The railroad representative stated that they have no problem with such utility crossings. However, the proposed encroachment or crossing must meet the standard specifications and construction procedures as required by the railroad (e.g., encroachment must be at the outer limits of the railroad rights-of-way within 5 feet of property line and a minimum of 35 feet from the centerline of the nearest track, track bores must be a minimum of 60-inches below base of rail, manholes must be capable of withstanding H-20 highway loading requirements and must be installed so as not to create a stumbling hazard, etc.). The project would be consistent with the most current version of “Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction” by Public Works Standards, Inc. All relevant conditions of encroachment permits would be included in the final project plans and specifications to ensure compliance. Therefore, Phase II would not result in any land use impacts with respect to existing facilities, including roadways, railroads and flood control structures. As stated previously, other potential short-term impacts to adjacent land uses (e.g., dust impacts on residential and agricultural use and noise impacts on sensitive receptors) are addressed elsewhere in this EIR/EA.
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As with Phase I, upon completion of construction, all pipelines would be subsurface. However, during the life of the project there is the potential for routine maintenance to occur on the pipeline. Long-term or blanket permits/agreements are provided to utilities by the County Transportation Division, City of Oxnard and Caltrans for the routine inspection and repair of such infrastructure. For pipeline segments within VCFCD rights-of-way, Calleguas would be required to obtain an encroachment permit any time repair work needs to be conducted. Any public works facilities affected during pipeline maintenance would be fully repaired as part of encroachment permit conditions and/or construction specifications. Therefore, no significant land use impacts to roadways are expected. Since the pipeline would be subsurface, it would not result in any other long-term land use conflicts. Cumulative. Any land use conflicts with public or private facilities associated with other development would be resolved through implementation of standard measures as part of the encroachment permit process. Therefore, no significant cumulative impacts are expected. 5.1.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Alternative A. Generally, methods of construction and associated impacts would be as the same as described for the preferred alternative alignments. Segment G-H Alternative Alignment A would cross the Ventura County Railroad. This railroad serves the Port of Hueneme, the City of Port Hueneme, the Navy Base and the City of Oxnard and connects with the Union Pacific Railroad. Construction methodology for all crossings would avoid impacts to the railroad by meeting all crossing/encroachment permit requirements of the Ventura County Railroad. Therefore, no impacts to the railroad are anticipated. The diversion structure would be located south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. Maintaining the pipeline and diversion structure would require the construction of an asphalt access road adjacent to or above the buried pipeline. Depending on the rate of sand migration, a small wall may have to be constructed to protect the access road from sand inundation. These uses would be a compatible use with the existing plant, no land use impacts would result. The diversion structure is not commercial in nature and would be inconsistent with the CVC land use designation. However, it does not conflict with any policies of the Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan or 2020 General Plan. Alternative B. Segment G-H Alternative Alignment B would require two crossings of the Oxnard Drain. Implementation of this alternative would result in a greater land use conflict that the preferred alignment due to use of the Oxnard Drain as a flood control facility. However, assuming that all conditions for a VCFCD encroachment permit were met, impacts would be less than significant. The Ormond Beach power plant outfall would be used with this alternative. No land use impacts are anticipated from use of this outfall as previously discussed. Segment G-H Alternative Alignment B would require a diversion structure to be located south of the Ormond Beach power plant, within a Resource Protection zone. The precise location of this facility has not been determined. The construction and operation of the diversion structure may adversely impact sensitive habitat, and would be inconsistent with Section 30240 of the Coastal Act and Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan Policy 6.d, which requires preservation of sensitive habitat and a minimum buffer of 50 feet surrounding sensitive habitat. This policy inconsistency would be considered a significant impact.
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Cumulative. Any land use conflicts with public or private facilities associated with other development would be resolved through implementation of standard measures as part of the encroachment permit process. Over the last few decades, numerous projects have been proposed in the Ormond Beach area, including residential and commercial development and wetlands restoration. However, none have been implemented, and it is unlikely any of these projects will be approved and under construction at the time Phase I of the proposed project is implemented Therefore, the policy inconsistency identified for the diversion structure would not be exacerbated by other projects. No significant cumulative impacts are expected. Phase II. The analysis provided for the preferred alternative applies to Phase II alternative alignments. However, Segments A-C Alternative A may be more problematic than the preferred alternative since much of it is located along Arroyo Simi and Ventura County Public Works Flood Control Division prefers not to have the pipeline in this location. Alternative Alignment A for Segment C-D may also be considered preferable by avoiding the potential conflicts associated with the preferred alignments location adjacent to the Arroyo Simi. Alternative B would also be better for this reason. As with the preferred alignment, upon completion of construction, all pipelines would be subsurface. During the life of the project, there is the potential for routine and emergency maintenance to occur on the pipeline. Long-term or blanket permits/agreements are provided to utilities by the County Transportation Division, affected cities, Caltrans, the Union Pacific Railroad and Ventura County Railroad for the routine inspection and repair of such infrastructure. As long as permit conditions are adhered to, no significant land use impacts to roadways or railroads are expected. For pipeline installation within VCFCD rights-of-way, Calleguas Municipal Water District would be required to obtain an encroachment permit any time repair work needs to be conducted. Because the pipeline would be subsurface, no other long-term impacts are expected. 5.1.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall The existing Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall would be used, without any major modifications. Therefore, as with the preferred outfall, no land use impacts would result. 5.1.2.5 No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative construction would be avoided; therefore, policy inconsistencies and impacts to roads, railroads and flood control rights-of-way would be avoided. 5.1.3 Mitigation Measures 5.1.3.1 Proposed Action No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.1.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments The diversion structure proposed for Segment G-H Alternative B shall be located to avoid sensitive habitat and provide a minimum 50 foot wide buffer area.
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5.1.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No significant impacts were identified for this alternative; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.1.4 Residual Impacts 5.1.4.1 Proposed Action No significant impacts were identified for the proposed action. 5.1.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Implementation of the mitigation measure would reduce land use impacts of the Segment G-H Alternative B diversion structure to a level of less than significant. However, CMWD does not own the site of the proposed diversion structure, and may not have control over the ultimate location of this facility. Therefore, impacts may not be avoidable and would remain significant. Phase II. No significant impacts were identified for Phase II. 5.1.5 Federal Findings No Federal findings for Land Use are required.
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5.2 GEOLOGY 5.2.1 Affected Environment 5.2.1.1 Regional Geology. The project area is located in the western portion of the Transverse Ranges Geomorphic Province of California. The Transverse Ranges extend eastward from Point Arguello to the Chuckawalla Mountains, and are characterized by a series of east-west trending mountain ranges and valleys which are transverse to the northwest trend of most geologic structures in the state. The province ranges from 10 to 50 miles wide and contains rock units from nearly all major geologic eras and periods beginning with the Precambrian. The pipeline alignment traverses the Oxnard Plain, and the Little Simi and Simi Valleys. The proposed and alternative alignments are primarily underlain by recent alluvial deposits, but may encounter Tertiary sedimentary and volcanic rocks. Relationships between the various rock units along the alignments are shown on Figures 5.2-1 through 5.2-6. Topography and Soils. The project area extends from the coastline near Port Hueneme to the western end of Simi Valley, generally following Calleguas Creek. Elevations along the pipeline alignment range from sea level at the downstream terminus near Ormond Beach to approximately 700 feet above mean sea level (msl) at the Simi Valley dewatering wells. Slope gradients along the alignment range from near level (0 to 2 percent) in Calleguas Creek and on the Oxnard Plain, while slopes on natural hillsides and road cuts adjacent to the proposed pipeline alignments range from very steep to near vertical. Soils in the project area vary and include loam, sandy loam, gravely coarse sands, silt loam, silty clay loam, clay loam, clay, and gravelly clay. Soil depths are also variable and range from less than 10 inches to greater than 5 feet. Generally, soils on the steeper slopes have high erosion potential. Proposed pipeline alignments would encounter soils on gently sloping flood plains and alluvial fans. Faults. The project area is located within the seismically active Southern California region. The California Division of Mines & Geology (CDMG) designates faults as active, potentially active and inactive. A fault is considered active if it can be demonstrated that the fault has experienced surface displacement in the past 11,000 years. A fault is considered potentially active if it can be demonstrated that movement has occurred in the past 2-million years, and inactive if it can be demonstrated that no movement has occurred in the past 2- million years. Significant faults and recorded epicenter locations within 50 miles of the project area are shown in Figures 5.2-1 through 5.2-6.
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Faults considered active within the project area include the Simi-Santa Rosa Fault System, which extends from the Simi Valley area to Camarillo and trends nearly east-west for approximately 25 miles, and the Springville and Camarillo Faults. Geologic evidence from trenching across the Simi Fault indicates that it is a north-dipping reverse fault with a component of lateral movement, with displacements occurring within the last 7,500 years. The pipeline alignment would cross the trace of the Simi-Santa Rosa Fault System immediately north of the Simi Valley dewatering wells and again near Somis. The pipeline alignment would cross the Camarillo Fault near the intersection of Calleguas Creek and Highway 101. The Simi-Santa Rosa Fault System is comprised of the Simi Fault and Santa Rosa Fault, which are in close proximity and may be connected. This Fault System is the dominant geologic structure affecting the project area and is oriented in an east-west direction approximately one mile south of Arroyo Simi (see Figure 5.2-3). The System is considered active and has been designated an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone. The pipeline alignment begins in the Simi Fault Zone at the Simi Valley dewatering wells and continues within the zone for approximately 2,000 feet. The alignment roughly parallels the Fault zone until it turns south near Somis, where it lies approximately 1,500 feet west of the terminus of the zoned portion of the Simi/Santa Rosa Fault. The alignment crosses unnamed but zoned faults near Adolfo Road. The alignment also crosses the Camarillo Fault at Lewis Road, immediately south of U.S. 101. Seismicity. Several large historic earthquakes have produced significant ground motion in the project area. The locations of these earthquakes are generally coincident with the presence and distribution of major fault zones. Historic earthquakes that have caused significant strong ground motion in the project area include the 1857 Fort Tejon earthquake of magnitude (M) 7.9 on the San Andreas Fault; the 1925 Santa Barbara earthquake (M 6.8) on an unknown offshore fault; the 1933 Long Beach earthquake (M 6.3) and several smaller earthquakes on the Newport-Inglewood fault (M 4.7-5.4); the 1952 (M 7.3) on the White Wolf fault in southern Kern County; the 1971 earthquake (M 6.6) on the San Fernando Fault; the 1979 Malibu earthquake (M 5.0) centered in Santa Monica Bay; the 1987 Whittier Narrows earthquake (M 5.9) on the Elysian Park Fault; and, most recently, the 1994 Northridge earthquake (M 6.8) on an unnamed south dipping fault. Numerous small earthquakes, and possibly the 1925 Santa Barbara earthquake, have been associated with the western edge of the Oak Ridge Fault (Yerkes 1985). Other faults that could potentially produce strong ground motion in the project area include the Red Mountain, San Cayetano, Santa Susana, Del Valle, Holser, and San Gabriel Faults, and faults in the western portion of the Ventura basin and eastern Santa Barbara Channel.
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Figure 5.2-1. Geologic Hazards of the Project Area (Segment F-G) (click to view)
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Figure 5.2-2. Geologic Hazards of the Project Area (Segment G-H) (click to view)
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Figure 5.2-3. Geologic Hazards of the Project Area (Segments A-C) (click to view)
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Figure 5.2-4. Geologic Hazards of the Project Area (Segment C-D) (click to view)
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Figure 5.2-5. Geologic Hazards of the Project Area (Segment D-E) (click to view)
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Figure 5.2-6. Geologic Hazards of the Project Area (Segment E-F) (click to view)
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Pipelines are generally categorized as continuous (steel pipelines with welded joints) or segmented (generally with gasketed joints). The main causes of damage to buried pipelines during seismic events are loss of support due to liquefaction, including lateral spreading, seismic settlement, rupture where the pipeline crosses the fault trace, and rupture due to slope failure. Continuous pipelines may rupture in tension or buckle due to compressive forces. Segmented pipelines generally fail at the pipe joints. Following the 1994 Northridge earthquake, leaks in low pressure or gravity feed pipelines which suffered significant damage were difficult to detect as no visible indications of leakage were apparent on the surface (CDMG 1995). Liquefaction. Soil liquefaction is defined as the transformation of a granular material from a solid to a liquefied state as a consequence of increased pore-water pressures and occurs as a result of cyclic loading, generally by seismic shaking. In general, low density, saturated sands are most susceptible to liquefaction. Liquefaction potential also increases as the depth to groundwater decreases. Typically, in order for liquefaction to occur, the groundwater table must be less than 50 feet deep. The majority of the project area is underlain by alluvial deposits which may be susceptible to liquefaction under high groundwater conditions which are present throughout most of the pipeline alignments. Most of the preferred and alternative pipeline alignments would be located in alluvial materials or in artificial fill overlying alluvial materials in which shallow groundwater conditions are present, thus making them susceptible to liquefaction and lateral spreading along the entire length. Subsidence. The main causes of land subsidence in southern California are groundwater extraction, oil and gas production, and tectonic movement, all of which are occurring within the project area. Subsidence due to tectonic movement may result from several phenomena including liquefaction and seismic settlement. Seismic settlement may occur in areas underlain by unsaturated, loose granular sediments. In these areas, ground shaking may cause a reduction of sediment volume due to the realignment of soil grains (i.e. compaction). Ground water extraction within the project area occurs throughout the Simi and Little Simi Valleys and throughout the Oxnard Plain. Subsidence due to groundwater extraction is occurring in the Oxnard Plain where nearly three feet of subsidence has been measured since 1939, some of which may be attributed to tectonic movement. Subsidence attributed to groundwater extraction on the order of 2-4 millimeters per year (mm/y) has been documented at the western end of San Fernando Valley but apparently has not affected the Simi Valley area. However, subsidence due to liquefaction has been documented in Simi Valley following the 1994 Northridge earthquake, and liquefaction potential along the entire pipeline alignment is considered moderate to high. Subsidence due to groundwater and oil extraction and tectonic movement is negligible in the Simi and Little Simi Valleys and does not pose any risk to the proposed project. Continued subsidence in the Oxnard Plain may cause settlement of the pipeline resulting in stress at the joints and possibly changes in flow gradient.
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Slope Stability. Slope failures may occur where natural or cut slopes are underlain by weak or weathered rocks, where geologic surfaces such as bedding planes and joint surfaces daylight, or where over-steepened conditions are present due to natural or man-made causes. Within the project area, slope failures are most prevalent in areas underlain by the Sespe and Saugus formations. The entire proposed pipeline alignment, including alternative alignments, lies within roadways, railroad rights-of-way, levees, or in undeveloped or cultivated ground, therefore, the potential for the pipeline to be ruptured by ground failure due to landsliding is considered negligible. However, where pipeline alignments lie near the toe of slopes there is the potential for the pipeline to be buried by landslide deposits. Tsunamis and Seiches. Tsunamis are long period sea waves created by the effects of seismic events or submarine landslides, occurring locally, or often many thousands of miles away. The last major tsunami in southern California was in 1812. The tsunami hazard zone extends from the coast about one mile inland. Segment G-H of the pipeline alignment and the diversion structure would be located within this hazard zone Seiches are seismic waves in enclosed bodies of water, such as lakes. No such water bodies occur in the project area. 5.2.1.2 Site-Specific This discussion focuses upon the conditions at the specific locations of each pipeline segment. The following information sources were utilized to assess these conditions: Ventura County Uniform Mapping System (Liquefaction, Subsidence, Erosion maps [undated]); Ventura County General Plan Hazards Appendix (Ventura County 1994b); Preliminary Report 14 – Geology and Mineral Resources Study of Southern Ventura County, California (Weber et al. 1973); Earthquake Fault Zone maps of the Simi West, Moorpark, and Camarillo Quadrangles (CDMG, 1998); Seismic Hazard Maps of the Simi Valley West, Moorpark and Oxnard Quadrangles (CDMG, 1997, 2000, 2001), Geologic Maps of Moorpark, Simi Camarillo and Oxnard Quadrangles (Dibblee 1992), Special Publication 116 – The Northridge, California, Earthquake of 17 January, 1994 (CDMG 1995), and Open File Report 96-517 (Hodgkinson 1996). Phase I. Both the preferred and alternative alignments would encounter similar soil types. Soils mapped along the alignments are assigned to the Camarillo and Hueneme series. The Camarillo Series is described as a poorly drained, fine sandy clay loam with a thickness of up to 80 inches. The soils form on alluvial plains on slopes of 2 percent or less, are considered to have no erosion hazard and moderate shrink/swell potential. The Hueneme Series is described as poorly drained sandy loam to loamy sand forming in shallow basins and alluvial plains with slopes of less than 2 percent. Thickness exceeds 60 inches. The series is considered to have no erosion hazard and low to moderate shrink/swell potential. Segment F-G. This segment (see Figure 5.2-1) would begin at the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF) and travel west, either along Hueneme Road (preferred alignment) or through agricultural land (Alternative A) and would tie in with segment G-H at the intersection of Hueneme and Arnold Roads (see Figure 5.2-2).
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The preferred or alternative alignments would not traverse any fault zones, slopes or lie at the toe of any slopes. Therefore, the pipeline would not be susceptible to failure due to fault rupture, landsliding or burial by landslide deposits. Segment G-H. The preferred alignment of segment G-H would follow Edison Road south to the Ormond Beach power plant. Elevations along the alignment range from sea level at Ormond Beach to an elevation of approximately 30 feet above mean sea level (msl) at the Camrosa WRF. The preferred or alternative alignments would not traverse any fault zones, slopes or lie at the toe of any slopes. Therefore, the pipeline would not be susceptible to failure due to fault rupture, landsliding or burial by landslide deposits. Phase II. Phase II would consist of five pipeline segments linking the Simi Valley dewatering wells to the Camrosa WRF. The alignments would run roughly parallel to Arroyo Simi and Calleguas Creek, along the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) rights-of-way, or along Los Angeles Avenue as shown on Figures 5.2-3 through 5.2-6. Elevations along the preferred and proposed alignments range from approximately 30 feet msl at the Camrosa WRF to approximately 700 feet msl at the Simi Valley dewatering wells. Topography along the entire alignment is essentially flat and sloped to the south and southwest, with an average gradient of approximately 22 feet per mile. Segment A-B. This segment would link the Simi Valley dewatering wells with the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant (Simi Valley WQCP). The preferred alignment follows Easy Street and the Union Pacific Railroad rights-of-way. No alternative alignment has been proposed. The alignment would encounter artificial fill and soils of the Anacapa, Hueneme, Riverwash, San Benito, Sorrento, and Zamorra Series. The Anacapa (AcC) Series is described as a well drained, sandy to gravelly loam occurring on alluvial fans with slopes of 2 to 9 percent. The soils are up to 60 inches deep, present no erosion hazard, and have a low shrink/swell potential. The Hueneme Series (Hm) consists of poorly drained loamy sand and sandy loam and differs from the Hueneme Series in the Oxnard Plain in that it is underlain by stratified sandy silt loam and silt below a depth of 40 inches. The soils present no erosion hazard and have a moderate shrink/swell potential. Riverwash Series (Rw) soils occur in and adjacent to channels of perennial and intermittent streams to depths of approximately 60 inches. The soils include bedded silt, sand gravel and cobbles, are excessively drained. The soils are subject to severe erosion and have a low shrink/swell potential. San Benito Series (ScF2) consist of well drained clay loams 40 to 60 inches deep and occur on slopes of 30 to 50 percent. The soils have severe erosion potential and moderate shrink/swell potential. Soils of the Sorrento Series (Sxc) include well drained loams and silty clay loams to depths in excess of 60 inches and occur on alluvial slopes of 2 to 9 percent. The soils have a slight erosion hazard and moderate shrink/swell potential. Zamora Series (Zmc) consist of well drained loams that occur on alluvial slopes of 2 to 9 percent. The soils are approximately 40 inches thick, present a slight erosion hazard, and have moderate shrink/swell potential.
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The pipeline alignment along Segment A–B lies adjacent to slopes supported by sandstone of the Sespe Formation. Cut slopes adjacent to the alignment are steeper than 1:1 (horizontal to vertical) and are less than 50 feet high. Several small landslides are present north of the proposed alignment as shown on Figure 5.2-3. Segment B-C. The preferred alignment links the Simi Valley WQCP to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant (MWTP) primarily along the UPRR right of way as shown on Figure 5.2-3. Alternative Alignment A would follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi from the Simi Valley WQCP to the intersection of Arroyo Simi with the UPRR rights-of-way where it would parallel the rights-of-way west of State Route (SR) 23. Alternative Alignment B would run parallel to the preferred alignment along most of its length but would turn south at the intersection of the UPRR rights-of-way and Gabbert Road. Elevations along Segment B–C range from approximately 680 feet msl at the Simi Valley WQCP to approximately 400 feet msl at the MWTP. Most of the preferred alignment and Alternative B would encounter artificial fill associated with road and railroad construction. Major soil types that may be encountered in undisturbed areas include soils of the Corralitos, Metz, Mocho, Pico and Soper Series. Alternative Alignment A of Segment B-C would follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi for most of its length and would encounter soils of the River Wash, Corralitos, and Metz Series. The Corralitos Series (CoC) consists of excessively drained loamy sands and sands more than 60 inches deep. These soils formed on alluvial plains on slopes of 0 to 9 percent. Erosion hazard is considered low, as is shrink/swell potential. The Metz Series (Me) consists of excessively drained loamy sands and loamy fine sands more than 60 inches deep. The soils occur on alluvial plains and fans with slopes from 0 to 9 percent. Erosion hazard is considered slight, as is shrink/swell potential. Mocho Series (Mo) soils consist of well drained loams, gravelly loams and clay loams more than 60 inches deep. The soils form on alluvial plains and fans with slopes of 0 to 9 percent, with slight erosion hazard and moderate shrink/swell potential. Pico Series (Pc) soils consist of well drained sandy loams and loams with depths of more than 60 inches. These soils occur on alluvial fans and plains with slopes of 0 to 9 percent, have a low erosion hazard and low shrink/swell potential. Soper Series (Sv) soils consist of well drained gravelly loams up to 60 inches deep. The soils form in upland areas with slopes of 15 to 50 percent. These soils are considered to have a moderate to severe erosion hazard and moderate shrink/swell potential. The preferred alignment follows the UPRR rights-of-way for approximately three miles prior to crossing Arroyo Simi near SR 23. The rights-of-way lies at the base of several low, west to northwest trending road cuts exposing sandstone of the Sespe Formation. Bedding dips are oriented favorably to the northwest (Dibblee, 1992d). The preferred alignment would run for approximately one mile along Los Angeles Avenue adjacent to the toe of several road cuts supported by the Sespe formation. The cut slopes are steeper than 1:1 and are less than 50 feet high. Several landslides are mapped north of Los Angeles Avenue. Alternative alignment A would parallel the north bank of Arroyo Simi for most of its length.
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Segment C-D. The preferred alignment of Segment C-D runs along the north bank of Arroyo Simi from the MWTP to the intersection of Arroyo Simi with Adolfo Road. Alternative alignment A would exit the MWTP to the north and follow Los Angeles Avenue, Somis Road, and Adolfo Road to Arroyo Simi. Alternative Alignment B would roughly parallel the preferred alignment as shown on Figure 5.2-4. Elevations along Segment C–D range from approximately 400 feet msl at the MWTP to approximately 160 feet msl at Adolfo Road. Soils mapped along the preferred and alternative alignments are similar and include soils from the Mocho, Metz, River Wash, and Sandy Alluvial Land Series. The Sandy Alluvial Land Series (Sd) consists of Excessively drained, stratified sandy sediments on flood plains adjacent to perennial and intermittent creeks. Erosion hazard is considered low as is the shrink/swell potential. Other soil series encountered in this segment have been previously described. The preferred alignment runs along the north bank of Arroyo Simi, adjacent to a gently southerly sloping alluvial plain. Alternative alignment A parallels Los Angeles Avenue and Somis Road, while alternative Alignment B parallels Arroyo Simi to Upland Road where it diverges and follows Flynn Road (See Figure 5.2-4). Neither the preferred nor the alternative alignments are located within a potential landslide area. No landslide hazards are present along this segment. Segment D-E. This segment runs from Adolfo Road south to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Camarillo WRP) (Point E1) as shown on Figure 5.2-5. The preferred alignment would follow the west bank of Calleguas creek from Adolfo Road to the confluence of Calleguas and Conejo Creeks, where it would turn southwest and cross undeveloped land to the intersection of Calleguas Creek and Lewis Road (Point E2). The preferred alignment would be connected to the Camarillo WRP by a trunk line. Alternative Alignment A would follow Calleguas Creek to Pleasant Valley Road, turn west and continue to Lewis Road, and follow Lewis Road to its intersection with Calleguas Creek. Alternatives B and C would follow Adolfo Road from Calleguas Creek to Conejo Creek and follow Conejo Creek to the Camarillo WRP. Elevations along the alignment range from approximately 160 feet msl at Adolfo Road to approximately 60 feet msl at Lewis Road and Calleguas Creek. Soils encountered along the preferred alignment and Alternative Alignment A would include the Camarillo, Hueneme, Metz, Mocho, and River Wash Series. Alternative Alignments B and C would encounter soils of the Metz and Pico Series. The preferred alignment in Segment D–E runs along the west bank of Calleguas Creek and does not lie adjacent to any slopes. Of the three alternative alignments proposed, Alternatives C and D (see Figure 5.2-5) run along the west bank of Conejo Creek which lies adjacent to slopes underlain by Tertiary volcanic rocks. None of the alignments cross any slopes and are therefore not subject to rupture by slope failure. Several landslides have been mapped on the east and south banks of Conejo Creek. There is the potential for the pipeline to be buried by landslide deposits.
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Segment E–F. The preferred alignment of Segment E (Point E2) – F is located along the west bank of Calleguas Creek to near the intersection of the Camrosa WRF access road and Calleguas Creek as shown on Figure 5.2-6. Alternative Alignment A is located along the east bank. Elevations along the segment range from approximately 60 feet msl at Point E2 to approximately 30 feet msl at Point F. Soils of the Hueneme Series would be encountered along both the preferred and alternative alignments. The preferred alignment is located along the west bank of Calleguas Creek and is connected to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Point E1) by a feeder line. The preferred feeder line alignment follows the plant access road. Alternative Alignment A would follow the north bank of Conejo Creek. Neither alignment traverses any slope and is not susceptible to rupture by landsliding. One landslide has been mapped south of the access road leading to the Camrosa WRF. There is the potential for portions of Alternative Alignment A to be buried by landslide deposits. 5.2.2 Environmental Consequences This section analyzes potential impacts related to geologic hazards, including slope instability, seismicity, liquefaction, and subsidence. The primary geologic hazards to pipeline integrity are fault rupture and rupture due to liquefaction or lateral spreading. Pipeline rupture due to offset by faulting would result in leakage and possibly soil erosion. Other effects may include contamination of potable water supplies by effluent from the brine line and increased mineralization of surface waters in Calleguas and Conejo Creeks. The environmental effects of pipeline failure are discussed in Section 5.10. The Phase II preferred and alternate alignments would cross three faults considered active; the Simi, Santa Rosa, and Camarillo Faults. Locations of the fault zones are shown on Figures 5.2-1 through 5.2-6. Other hazards with less potential for serious damage to the pipeline include subsidence and burial by landslide deposits, which has been discussed previously. Areas where the pipeline alignments are subject to burial by landslide deposits generally are within or adjacent to earthquake fault zones which would require special design and possibly pipeline material, making it practical to design for both seismic and increased external load hazards. 5.2.2.1 Significance Thresholds Appendix G of the State CEQA Guidelines states that a project will normally have a significant impact if it would "expose people or structures to major geologic hazards." Impacts would, therefore, be considered significant if any component of the project is located in an area subject to "high" risks associated with seismic activity, liquefaction, subsidence, or slope instability (as defined by the Ventura County General Plan). Impacts are also considered significant if the project would create a new geologic hazard or create major landform alterations that would cause such effects as slope instability or major erosion.
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5.2.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I. Segments F-G and G-H traverse alluvial deposits of the Oxnard Plain. None of the alignments cross any earthquake fault zones. However, the preferred alignment lies within an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential. The segments lie southeast of the area of known subsidence. However, they are located in a probable subsidence zone, and the magnitude and extent of subsidence in this area is not known. Subsidence due to liquefaction or groundwater extraction may occur along these segments, potentially resulting in pipeline failure. However, it is standard practice to conduct geotechnical investigations prior to completing pipeline design to identify geologic hazards, and provide design recommendations to enable the pipeline to withstand such hazards. These recommendations may include the type of pipe material (ductile iron vs. PVC), type of pipe joint, depth of burial, type of pipe bedding and compaction of overburden. This process allows numerous water and wastewater pipelines to occur in the Phase I project area with virtually no risk of failure. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of failure due to subsidence is considered a less than significant impact. Segment F-G would cross Calleguas Creek and Revolon Slough. Segment G-H would cross a tributary to the Oxnard Drain at the terminus of Edison Road. These crossings may be completed using tunneling or trenching methods. Should trenching methods be used to install this segment, significant soil erosion associated with disturbance of the bed and banks of these drainages may occur (Impact GEO-1). Segment G-H and the diversion structure would be located in a tsunami hazard zone. However, these facilities would not be manned or result in an increase in population within the tsunami hazard zone. Therefore, no significant impacts from tsunamis would occur. Phase II. Segment A–B. This segment enters the Simi Fault Zone at the Simi Valley dewatering wells and remains in the Zone for a distance of approximately 2,000 feet. This segment would be subject to rupture by both fault offset and liquefaction. Fault rupture may include pipeline failure by shearing where the pipeline crosses the fault and pipeline failure by tension where the pipeline runs parallel to the fault. This segment would also be subject to burial by landslide deposits. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to fault rupture and/or landslide burial is considered a less than significant impact. Segment A-B would cross the Brea Canyon drainage; however, this drainage has been converted to an underground box culvert at Easy Street. Pipeline installation would avoid this culvert, and no impacts to Brea Canyon would occur.
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Segment B–C. This segment lies north of and runs parallel to the Simi Fault Zone, thus the likelihood of rupture due to fault offset is low. The preferred alignment lies within area considered by the State to be highly susceptible to liquefaction. Portions of the preferred alignment between the Simi Valley WQCP and Spring Street would be susceptible to burial by landslide deposits. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to liquefaction and/or landslide burial is considered a less than significant impact. Segment B-C would cross Arroyo Simi several times; however, these crossings would completed using tunneling methods, such that soil erosion within and adjacent to this drainage would not occur. However, smaller drainages (including Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon, and smaller unnamed drainages) may be crossed using trenching methods. Should trenching methods be used to install this segment, significant soil erosion associated with disturbance of the bed and banks of these drainages may occur (Impact GEO-2). Segment C–D. Segment C–D lies approximately 2 miles north of the Simi Fault where it parallels Calleguas Creek, and lies approximately 2,000 feet west of the end of the zoned trace of the Simi Fault in the vicinity of Upland Road. However, mapping is incomplete in this area, and the absence of active faulting has not been determined by the CDMG. This segment is located in an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential throughout the segment. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to liquefaction is considered a less than significant impact. Smaller drainages (including Long Canyon, Balcolm Canyon, and smaller unnamed drainages) may be crossed using trenching methods. Should trenching methods be used to install this segment, significant soil erosion associated with disturbance of the bed and banks of these drainages may occur (Impact GEO-3). Segment D–E2. This segment crosses a small, unnamed but zoned fault associated with the Simi-Santa Rosa Fault System, and also crosses the zoned Camarillo Fault near Highway 101. Segment D-E2 is located in an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to fault rupture and/or liquefaction is considered a less than significant impact. Segment D-E2 would cross Calleguas Creek at least once; however, these crossings would completed using tunneling methods, such that soil erosion within and adjacent to this drainage would not occur. Segment E2–F. This segment traverses alluvial deposits of the Oxnard Plain, and does not cross any earthquake fault zones. Segment E2-F is located in an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential. This segment also lies southeast of an area of known subsidence, however, it is located in a probable subsidence zone. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to liquefaction and/or subsidence is considered a less than significant impact.
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Cumulative Impacts. The Ventura Council of Governments projects that Ventura County will grow in population by 8 percent from 2001 to 2010, and by 18 percent by 2020. These population projections form the basis of the Ventura County General Plan. Most of this population growth is expected to occur in Ventura, Camarillo, Oxnard, Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks. Development projects associated with this growth would be constructed according to the Uniform Building Code, including provisions for local geologic hazards. Therefore, these other projects would not exacerbate geologic hazards affecting the proposed project, and cumulative impacts would be the same as project-specific impacts. 5.2.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Segments F-G and G-H traverse alluvial deposits of the Oxnard Plain. None of the alignments cross any earthquake fault zones. However, the alternative alignments lie within an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential. The segments lie southeast of the area of known subsidence. However, they are located in a probable subsidence zone, and the magnitude and extent of subsidence in this area is not known. Subsidence due to liquefaction or groundwater extraction may occur along these segments, potentially resulting in pipeline failure. However, it is standard practice to conduct geotechnical investigations prior to completing pipeline design to identify geologic hazards, and provide design recommendations to enable the pipeline to withstand such hazards. These recommendations may include the type of pipe material (ductile iron vs. PVC), type of pipe joint, depth of burial, type of pipe bedding and compaction of overburden. This process allows numerous water and wastewater pipelines to occur in the Phase I project area with virtually no risk of failure. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of failure due to subsidence is considered a less than significant impact. Segment F-G would cross Calleguas Creek and Revolon Slough. Segment G-H Alternative A would cross the Oxnard Industrial Drain. Segment G-H Alternative B would cross the Oxnard Drain at the terminus of Arnold Road. These crossings may be completed using tunneling or trenching methods. Should trenching methods be used to install this segment, significant soil erosion associated with disturbance of the bed and banks of these drainages may occur. Segment G-H and the diversion structure would be located in a tsunami hazard zone. However, these facilities would not be manned or result in an increase in population within the tsunami hazard zone. Therefore, no significant impacts from tsunamis would occur. Phase II. Segment B–C. This segment lies north of and runs parallel to the Simi Fault Zone, thus the likelihood of rupture due to fault offset is low. The alternate alignments lie within area considered by the State to be highly susceptible to liquefaction. Portions of Alternative A between the Simi Valley WQCP and Spring Street would be susceptible to burial by landslide deposits. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to liquefaction and/or landslide burial is considered a less than significant impact.
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Segment B-C Alternative A would cross Arroyo Simi several times; however, these crossings would completed using tunneling methods, such that soil erosion within and adjacent to this drainage would not occur. However, smaller drainages (including Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon, and smaller unnamed drainages) may be crossed using trenching methods. Should trenching methods be used to install this segment, significant soil erosion associated with disturbance of the bed and banks of these drainages may occur. Segment C–D. The alternate alignments of Segment C–D lie approximately 2 miles north of the Simi Fault where they parallel Calleguas Creek. The alignments lie approximately 2,000 feet west of the end of the zoned trace of the Simi Fault in the vicinity of Upland Road. However, mapping is incomplete in this area, and the absence of active faulting has not been determined by the CDMG. The alternative alignments lie within an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential throughout the segment. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to liquefaction is considered a less than significant impact. Smaller drainages (including Long Canyon, Balcolm Canyon, and smaller unnamed drainages) may be crossed using trenching methods. Should trenching methods be used to install this segment, significant soil erosion associated with disturbance of the bed and banks of these drainages may occur. Segment D–E2. This segment begins within a small, unnamed but zoned fault associated with the Simi-Santa Rosa Fault System. The Alternative A alignment would cross the zoned Camarillo Fault near Highway 101. Alternative Alignments B and C would cross the Camarillo Fault near the intersection of Adolfo Road and Camino Ruiz. The alternative alignments lie within an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to fault rupture and/or liquefaction is considered a less than significant impact. Segment D-E2 alternatives would cross Calleguas Creek at least once; however, these crossings would completed using tunneling methods, such that soil erosion within and adjacent to this drainage would not occur. Segment E2–F. This segment traverses alluvial deposits of the Oxnard Plain, and does not cross any earthquake fault zones. The alternative alignments lie within an area considered by the State to have high liquefaction potential. Segment E2-F lies southeast of the area of known subsidence, however, it is located in a probable subsidence zone. Due to the standard engineering practice of designing pipelines to suit the geologic environment, risk of pipeline failure due to liquefaction and/or subsidence is considered a less than significant impact. 5.2.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall The use of the alternative outfall would not require any construction, such that no geologic hazards are expected.
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5.2.3 Mitigation Measures 5.2.3.1 Proposed Action Phase I. MM GEO-1. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce geologic and soil-related impacts (GEO-1 through GEO-3). • Appropriate Best Management Practices, as established in the project’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Construction Storm Water Permit, shall be employed during construction. Such measures may include, but are not limited to, temporary sand bagging, construction of berms, installation of geofabric, and revegetation of areas by hydroseeding and mulching. CMWD shall be responsible for implementation by the construction contractor. • All trench crossings of intermittent drainages shall be conducted when no surface flows are present, and shall be re-contoured, re-compacted and revegetated to approximate pre-project conditions at the earliest practicable date following construction. CMWD shall be responsible for implementation by the construction contractor. • Emergency shut-off valves shall be designed and installed at all locations where flows would enter the pipeline, especially at critical areas such as active fault zones (Segments A-B, D-E2).
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Phase II. Mitigation measures identified for Phase I are also applicable to Phase II. 5.2.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Mitigation measured provided above for the Proposed Action are applicable to the alternative pipeline alignments. 5.2.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No geologic impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.2.4 Residual Impacts 5.2.4.1 Proposed Action Implementation of the measures described above would reduce impacts related to geologic hazards for Phases I and II to a less than significant level. 5.2.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Implementation of the measures described above would reduce impacts related to geologic hazards for Phases I and II to a less than significant level. 5.2.5 Federal Findings No Federal findings are required for geologic hazards.
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5.3 AIR QUALITY 5.3.1 Affected Environment 5.3.1.1 General Climate and Meteorology The proposed project is located in the Oxnard Plain Airshed, a sub-basin of the South Central Coast Air Basin. The Airshed is characterized by cool winters and warm, dry summers tempered by cooling sea breezes. Summer, spring and fall weather is generally a result of the movement and intensity of the semi-permanent high pressure area located several hundred miles to the west. Marine influences generally predominate during this period and cause afternoon onshore flow and evening off-shore flow. Winter weather is generally a result of the size and location of low pressure weather systems originating in the north Pacific Ocean. Ventura County winds are dominated by a diurnal land-sea breeze cycle. This cycle is broken only by occasional winter storms and infrequent strong Santa Ana winds from the northeast. The sea breeze is generally stronger than the land breeze and results in a net flow from west to east. Westerly sea breezes carry pollutants generated in the coastal areas into the inland valleys where dispersion is restricted. The presence of temperature inversions and westerly transport result in meteorological conditions conducive to ozone formation in the inland valleys. In particular, Simi Valley and the Conejo Valley suffer from restricted vertical mixing caused by temperature inversions and transport of pollutants from the South Coast Air Basin. Consequently, the highest ozone concentrations in Ventura County typically occur in these Valleys. As indicated in Table 5.3-2, the Simi Valley station records the highest pollutant concentrations, due to adverse meteorological conditions and occasional transport of pollutants from the adjacent San Fernando Valley. 5.3.1.2 Air Monitoring Network The air quality of Ventura County is monitored by a network of air monitoring stations operated by the California Environmental Protection Agency, Air Resources Board (ARB) and the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD). The air monitoring network includes six stations in Ventura County. Ambient air quality monitoring stations in the vicinity of the pipeline alignments include the El Rio (near Rose Avenue/Central Avenue intersection), Thousand Oaks (Moorpark Road) and Simi Valley (Cochran Street) stations. 5.3.1.3 Air Quality Standards Air quality standards are specific concentrations of pollutants that are used as thresholds to protect public health and the public welfare. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed two sets of standards; one to provide an adequate margin of safety to protect human health and the second to protect the public welfare from any known or anticipated adverse effects. At this time, sulfur dioxide is the only pollutant for which the two standards differ. ARB developed air quality standards for California, which are generally lower in concentration than the Federal standards. California standards exist for ozone, carbon monoxide, PM10, visibility, sulfates, lead, hydrogen sulfide and vinyl chloride.
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In July 1997, EPA implemented new health-based ozone and particulate matter (PM) standards. The new Federal ozone standard is based on a longer averaging period (8-hour vs. 1-hour), recognizing that prolonged exposure is more damaging. The new Federal PM standard is based on finer particles (2.5 microns and smaller vs. 10 microns and smaller), recognizing that finer particles may have a higher residence time in the lungs and cause greater respiratory illness. Table 5.3-1 lists the applicable State and Federal air quality standards.
Table 5.3-1. Ambient Air Quality Standards
Pollutant Averaging Time State Standard Federal Standard 1-Hour 0.09 ppm -- Ozone 8-Hour -- 0.08 ppm 1-Hour 20 ppm 35 ppm Carbon Monoxide (CO) 8-Hour 9.0 ppm 9.0 ppm
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) 1-Hour 0.25 ppm --- 24-Hour -- 50 ug/m3 Inhalable Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Annual Arithmetic Mean -- 15 ug/m3 24-Hour 50 ug/m3 150 ug/m3
Inhalable Particulate Matter (PM10) Annual Geometric Mean 30 ug/m3 -- Annual Arithmetic Mean --- 50 ug/m3
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) 24-Hour 0.04 ppm 0.14 ppm
5.3.1.4 Health Risk Issues The combustion of diesel fuel in truck engines (as well as other internal combustion engines) produces exhaust containing a number of compounds that have been identified as hazardous air pollutants by EPA and toxic air contaminants by the ARB. Particulate matter (PM) from diesel exhaust has recently been identified as a toxic air contaminant, which has prompted ARB to develop a Final Risk Reduction Plan (released October 2000) for exposure to diesel PM. Based on ARB Resolution 00-30, full implementation of emission reduction measures recommended in the Final Risk Reduction Plan would result in a 75 percent reduction in the diesel PM Statewide inventory and the associated cancer risk by 2010, and an 85 percent reduction by 2020 in the diesel PM inventory and potential cancer risk. 5.3.1.5 Effects of Air Pollution The primary chemical compounds that are considered pollutants emitted into or formed in the atmosphere include ozone, oxides of nitrogen, sulfur dioxide, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. Ozone is formed in the atmosphere through a complex series of chemical reactions generally requiring light as an energy source. Ozone is a pungent, colorless gas that is a strong irritant and attacks the respiratory system. Respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are aggravated by exposure to ozone. A healthy person exposed to high concentrations of ozone may experience nausea, dizziness, and burning in the chest. Ozone also damages crops and other vegetation.
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Oxides of nitrogen (NOx) which are considered pollutants include nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). NO is colorless and odorless and is generally formed by combustion processes combining atmospheric oxygen and nitrogen. NO2 is a reddish-brown irritating gas formed by the combination of NO and oxygen in the atmosphere or at the emission source. Both NO and NO2 are considered ozone precursors because they react with hydrocarbons and oxygen to produce ozone. Exposure to NO2 may increase the potential for respiratory infections in children and cause difficulty in breathing even among healthy persons and especially among asthmatics.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless, pungent, irritating gas which affects the upper respiratory tract. Sulfur dioxide may combine with particulate matter and settle in the lungs, causing damage to lung tissues. Sulfur dioxide may combine with water in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid that may fall as acid rain, damaging vegetation. Hydrocarbons include a wide variety of compounds containing hydrogen and carbon.
Many hydrocarbons (known as reactive organic compounds [ROC]) react with NO and NO2 to form ozone. Generally, ambient hydrocarbon concentrations do not cause adverse health effects directly, but result in ozone formation. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas generally formed by incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon-containing fuels. Carbon monoxide does not irritate the respiratory tract, but does interfere with the ability of blood to carry oxygen to vital tissues. Particulate matter consists of a wide variety of particle sizes and composition.
Generally, particles less than 10 microns (PM10) are considered to be pollutants because they accumulate in the lung tissues and may contain toxic materials which can be absorbed into the system. 5.3.1.6 General Air Quality Trends
Two pollutants (ozone and PM10) are of particular interest because State air quality standards for these pollutants are regularly exceeded. Table 5.3-2 lists the monitored maximum concentrations and number of exceedances of State air quality standards for the years 1999 through 2001. Ozone concentrations monitored at the Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley stations regularly exceed the State 1-hour standard (0.09 ppm), but rarely exceed the Federal 1-hour standard (0.12 ppm). The ozone 8-hour standard was not exceeded at the El Rio station, but was exceeded an average of 2 periods per year and 22 periods per year at the Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley stations, respectively. Ozone levels at the El Rio station are much lower, due to lower temperatures, less sunlight (summer marine layer) and more consistent wind-induced dispersion.
PM10 concentrations monitored at the El Rio, Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley station occasionally exceed the State 24-hour standard, but do not exceed the State or Federal annual standards.
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Table 5.3-2. Air Quality Standard Exceedances
Pollutant 1999 2000 2001
Ozone 1-hour ppm (El Rio/Thousand Oaks/Simi Valley)
Worst Hour 0.103/0.111/0.132 0.084/0.102/0.128 0.079/0.106/0.129
Number of State Exceedances (Days > 0.09 ppm) 1/9/31 1/6/31 0/2/30
Number of Federal Exceedances (Days > 0.12 ppm) 0/0/2 0/0/1 0/0/2
Ozone 8-hour ppm (El Rio/Thousand Oaks/Simi Valley)
Number of Federal Exceedances (Periods > 0.08 ppm) 0/4/22 0/2/27 0/1/17
PM10 (El Rio/Thousand Oaks/Simi Valley)
Worst sample 51/84/67 52/100/71 49/41/62
Number of State exceedances (samples>50) 1/6/6 1/6/3 0/0/1
Annual Geometric Mean (Standard is 30) 25.7/28.1/26.3 25.0/26.2/25.1 25.9/24.7/28.1
Annual Arithmetic Mean (Standard is 50) 27.7/31.3/29.8 26.9/31.0/28.5 27.5/26.9/31.2
5.3.1.7 Ventura County Attainment Status and Planning Federal. Ventura County is considered a non-attainment area for the Federal ozone standard because ambient ozone concentrations exceed the 1-hour standard. The 1990 Amendments to the Federal Clean Air Act require statutory deadlines for attainment of Federal air quality standards including: • 1990 base year emission inventory by November 15, 1992; • 1990-1996 Rate of Progress Plan by November 15, 1993; • Post-1996 Rate of Progress Plan by November 15, 1994; • Plan to attain the Federal ozone standard by 2005; and • Contingency measures to ensure continued progress towards attainment of the Federal ozone standard. The ARB submitted a 1990 emission inventory to EPA on behalf of the APCD, but was considered incomplete due to the lack of a public hearing. A public hearing was conducted on October 19, 1993 to satisfy EPA's requirements. The 1990-1996 Rate of Progress Plan that provides for at least a 15 percent reduction in VOC emissions between 1990 and 1996 was approved by EPA on January 6, 1997. The Post-1996 Rate-of-Progress Plan provides for a 9 percent reduction in VOC emissions by 1999, another 9 percent reduction by 2002 and a third 9 percent reduction by 2005. However, reductions in NOx emissions can be used to satisfy ROC emission reduction targets. The Post-1996 Rate-of-Progress Plan was also approved by EPA on January 6, 1997. State. Assembly Bill 2595 (known as the California Clean Air Act) took effect on January 1, 1989. The goal of this bill is to attain the California air quality standards by the earliest practicable date. The Ventura County portion of the South Central Coast Air Basin has been classified as a severe non-attainment area for the State ozone standard. The South Central Coast Air Basin has been classified as in attainment for CO.
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A 1991 AQMP was prepared by the Ventura County APCD to meet the requirements of the California Clean Air Act and was adopted by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors on October 8, 1991. The 1991 AQMP was approved by ARB on August 13, 1992. The 1991 AQMP did not contain a predicted date of attainment of the State ozone standard. However, the 1991 AQMP included stationary source and mobile source control measures that will substantially reduce emissions. New and revised stationary source control measures that should substantially reduce the projected emissions inventory include various coatings rules (paints), consumer products rules (deodorants, hair spray, etc.) and electrical power generating equipment (Rule 59). New and revised mobile source control measures include various trip reduction related measures, clean fuels, revisions to Rule 210 and an indirect source control program for projects which attract large numbers of vehicles (large commercial or residential projects). The 1991 AQMP does not specifically address attainment of the State PM10 standard. However, many of the control measures contained in the 1991 AQMP would result in substantial reductions in PM10 emissions. A 1994 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) was developed that included a demonstration that attainment of the Federal ozone standard will occur in 2005 as required. Control measures included in the 1994 AQMP will substantially reduce the 1990 emissions inventory and allow progress towards attainment of the Federal ozone standard. These measures include surface coating restrictions, clean-up solvent restrictions, emission reductions at the Mandalay power station and an enhanced smog check compliance program. The 1994 AQMP complies with the triennial progress report, triennial plan revision and other requirements of the California Clean Air Act that were required to be completed by the end of 1994. The AQMP was revised in 1995 to include changes to the 1990 emissions inventory, additional control measures approved by ARB, abandonment of the Federal Implementation Plan on April 11, 1995, revisions to the transportation conformity emission budget and revised photochemical modeling. The AQMP was revised again in 1997 to extend the projected adoption and implementation dates for nine control measures identified in the 1995 AQMP Revision. This action does not affect the expected attainment date or rate of progress requirements. 5.3.1.8 Valley Fever Valley fever (Coccidioidiomycosis) is a disease contracted by the inhalation of airborne spores of a fungus (Coccidioides immitis). Since these spores typically become airborne through soil disturbance as a component of fugitive dust, this health hazard is addressed as an air quality phenomenon. The name "valley fever" reflects the fact that the first cases reported in the United States were from the Central Valley of California. Since it was first discovered in 1893, more than half of the cases reported in California have come from the southern portion of the Central Valley (Kern, Kings, Tulare and Fresno Counties).
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Most of the population living for extended periods in infected areas is exposed to valley fever. However, most exposed individuals do not become infected and only one person per 1000 infected develops serious illness. Newcomers to infected areas are more likely to develop serious illness than those exposed as children. Persons with consistent exposure to valley fever such as farm workers and construction workers are more susceptible to serious complications. The symptoms of the disease vary from none to very severe, sometimes fatal illness. Statistically, 60 percent of those infected show no symptoms and 40 percent exhibit flu- like symptoms typical of the disease. Most people who become infected have an excellent chance for full recovery if the illness is correctly diagnosed. Reported cases of valley fever tend to increase in dry periods following exceptionally wet years. The Ventura County Public Health Department reported less than 10 cases during the drought (pre-1992), but 60 cases were reported in 1992, possibly the result of high rainfall during the 1991-1992 rain year. The annual number of reported new cases of valley fever was about 40 prior to the Northridge earthquake, but increased to 243 in the year of the earthquake (1994). This evidence suggests that earthquake-related increases in airborne dust resulted an increase in new cases (APCD, 2000). However, the origin of infection is difficult to trace because the symptoms may not be apparent for years after exposure. It is thought that many cases reported in Ventura County are a result of previous exposure in Kern County. 5.3.2 Environmental Consequences Project impacts include short-term impacts (construction-related) and long-term impacts (operation and routine maintenance). Short-term impacts consist of emissions generated by construction equipment and vehicles associated with excavation/trenching, tunneling, installation of pipe segments and backfill. Long-term emissions may be generated by motor vehicles associated with routine maintenance and monitoring of system status. 5.3.2.1 Significance Thresholds The Ventura County APCD is the local agency responsible for implementation of the State Implementation Plan (SIP). In November 2000, the Ventura County APCD adopted the “Ventura County Air Quality Assessment Guidelines” (Guidelines), which include project-specific thresholds that should not be exceeded to ensure consistency with the SIP and minimize public exposure to pollutants: • Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP); • Violate any air quality standard or contribute to an existing or projected air quality violation; • Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria non-attainment pollutant; • Expose the public (especially schools, day care centers, hospitals, retirement homes, convalescent facilities and residences) to substantial pollutant concentrations; and • Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people.
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A considerable net increase of ozone precursors (a non-attainment pollutant) is considered 25 pounds per day of reactive organic compounds (ROC) and oxides of nitrogen
(NOx). CMWD has adopted these thresholds for determining the significance of environmental impacts of the proposed project. However, these thresholds are only applied to long-term operation impacts, because the 2000 Ventura County Air Quality Assessment Guidelines state that construction emissions are temporary and not subject to significance criteria. At this time, the ARB and EPA have not provided the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (or any other local District) any guidance regarding the assessment of diesel emissions in environmental documents. There is no accepted methodology for assessing health risk associated with diesel PM. There are no air quality standards for toxic compounds associated with diesel combustion. However, ARB and EPA acknowledge it is a regional problem which can only be regulated at the State and National level. 5.3.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I. Construction. Air pollutant emissions generated by construction activities would include exhaust emissions and wind-blown (fugitive) dust. These activities include access road construction, stream diversion, vegetation clearing, trenching, pipe laying, trench backfilling, dewatering, and transportation (materials, equipment and workers). Construction exhaust emissions were calculated using activity assumptions (Table 5.3-3), load factors and emission factors from Nonroad Engine and Vehicle Emissions Study (EPA, 1991). Fugitive dust emissions were estimated using project assumptions (Table 5.3-3) and emission factors from Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors, Volume I, Sections 11.9 and 13.2 (EPA, 1995). Wind erosion of exposed soil surfaces was estimated using an emission factor (26.4 pounds PM10 per day per acre) from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) CEQA Air Quality Handbook (1993) and reduced by 50 percent based on watering of exposed soils by the construction contractor. Project emissions estimates are provided for peak day and peak annual scenarios. Emission calculations are documented in Appendix C. The peak day scenario includes three construction teams operating simultaneously; two trenching teams and one tunneling team. Therefore, emissions associated with each trenching team and tunneling team were estimated, and added together to produce an overall peak day scenario. Phase I construction is expected to require two years to complete; therefore, annual emissions would be one-half of the total construction emissions. Total construction emissions were calculated by multiplying the daily emissions for each team by the number of work days listed in Table 5.3-3. The number of work days for trenching provided in Table 5.3-3 are based on minimum pipelaying rates (feet per work day) for the proposed pipe size given in Perliter and Ingalsbe (2001). The number of work days for tunneling provided in Table 5.3-3 are based on an average of 12 work days per major pipe crossing (highways, railroads and major streams).
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Transportation emissions were estimated using the Motor Vehicle Emissions Inventory (MVEI7G) model developed by the ARB, and assuming that Phase I construction work would begin in 2003. The trip distance was assumed to be 15 miles based on the average home-work trip distance in Ventura County from APCD (2000). Although most of the vehicle trips would be made by trucks handling trench spoils and transporting pipe, it was assumed that a trip distance of 15 miles was conservative, given that spoils handling trips would be much less than 15 miles, but pipe transporting trips may be longer. The total number of one-way vehicle trips on a peak day was assumed to be 300, based on 3 construction teams, 70 one-way truck trips per team and 30 one-way construction worker trips per team.
Construction-related PM10 emissions may cause or substantially contribute to local exceedances of the State PM10 standard or cumulatively hinder progress towards attainment of the State PM10 standard. In addition, dust generated by construction activities immediately adjacent to residences may be considered a nuisance and violate APCD Rule 51. Rule 51 prohibits the discharge of air contaminants which “cause injury, detriment, nuisance or annoyance to any considerable number of persons…” The following dust control measures will be included in the project’s construction specifications to prevent violations of Rule 51: • Removal of vegetation and ground disturbance shall be limited to the minimum area necessary to complete project construction activities. Vegetative cover shall be maintained on all other portions of the project area. • Regular ground wetting of exposed soils and sediments, and unpaved access roads shall be conducted during construction to control fugitive dust emissions. • Grading activities shall cease during periods of high winds (greater that 20 miles per hour, averaged over one hour). • Silt containing material excavated, stockpiled or transported during construction shall be wetted regularly. • On-site construction vehicle speed shall be limited to 15 miles per hour in unpaved areas. • Trucks transporting backfill material to the project site shall be covered or maintain a minimum two-foot freeboard; and • Roadways in the vicinity of construction access points shall be swept as necessary to prevent the accumulation of silt.
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Construction-related NOx and ROC emissions (see Tables 5.3-4 and 5.3-5) are not considered significant impacts due to their short-term nature. However, these emissions may cause or substantially contribute to local exceedances of the State ozone standard or cumulatively hinder progress towards attainment of the State ozone standard. Therefore, the following measures will be included in the project’s construction specifications: • Minimizing idling time; and • Maintaining engines in good condition and proper tune.
Table 5.3-3. Activity Assumptions used for Total Emissions Estimates
Segment Trenching (days) Tunneling (days) Total Work Days
Proposed Action – Phase I
F-G 239 36 275
G-H 87 0 87
Alternative A – Phase I
F-G 255 36 291
G-H 89 12 101
Alternative B – Phase I
F-G 239 36 275
G-H 103 24 127
Alternative C – Phase I
F-G 239 36 275
G-H 87 0 87
The proposed project would generate short-term diesel exhaust emissions associated with heavy equipment usage, and truck transportation of construction materials. The amount of heavy equipment usage and number of diesel truck trips associated with project construction would be short-term and minimal in a regional context, such that the Proposed Action would have a less than significant contribution to public health risk. In a local context, the proposed project would represent a short-term contribution to public health risk associated with exposure to toxic air contaminants. Therefore, diesel exhaust emissions and associated toxic air contaminants are considered a less than significant impact to air quality. The proposed project would not generate long-term diesel exhaust emissions; therefore, no long-term air quality impact associated with toxic diesel exhaust would occur.
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Table 5.3-4. Peak Day Construction Emissions
Pollutant (pounds per peak day) Source NOx ROC CO PM10
Equipment: Trench Team 1 171.6 16.0 124.9 9.6
Equipment: Trench Team 2 171.6 16.0 124.9 9.6
Equipment: Tunneling Team 185.8 17.4 132.8 10.2
Vehicles (all 3 teams) 59.8 8.0 62.1 3.7
Fugitive Dust (all 3 teams) 0.0 0.0 0.0 499.0
Sum (overall peak day) 588.8 57.4 444.7 532.1
Table 5.3-5. Annual Construction Emissions for each Alternative
Pollutant (tons per year) Source NOx ROC CO PM10
Proposed Action
Equipment: trenching 13.97 1.30 10.17 0.78
Equipment: tunneling 1.67 0.16 1.20 0.09
Vehicles 1.80 0.24 1.87 0.11
Fugitive dust 0.00 0.00 0.00 15.04
Total 17.45 1.70 13.24 16.02
Alternative A
Equipment: trenching 14.77 1.38 10.75 0.83
Equipment: tunneling 2.23 0.21 1.59 0.12
Vehicles 1.96 0.26 2.03 0.12
Fugitive dust 0.00 0.00 0.00 16.31
Total 18.96 1.85 14.37 17.38
Alternative B
Equipment: trenching 14.65 1.37 10.66 0.82
Equipment: tunneling 2.79 0.26 1.99 0.15
Vehicles 2.00 0.27 2.08 0.13
Fugitive dust 0.00 0.00 0.00 16.69
Total 19.44 1.89 14.73 17.79
Alternative C
Equipment: trenching 13.97 1.30 10.17 0.78
Equipment: tunneling 1.67 0.16 1.20 0.09
Vehicles 1.80 0.24 1.87 0.11
Fugitive dust 0.00 0.00 0.00 15.04
Total 17.45 1.70 13.24 16.02
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Operation. Emissions associated with operation would be limited to that generated by motor vehicles used to inspect and maintain the proposed facilities. It is assumed that a peak day would generate 10 one-way trips, and a peak year would generate 150 one-way trips. Operation emissions are estimated in Table 5.3-6, and are less than the significance thresholds. Therefore, operation emissions are considered a less than significant impact. Odors are generated by existing wastewater treatment facilities, such as the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility. However, odor generation is generally controlled by management practices such as aeration, closed vessels and drying (sludge). The proposed project is limited to wastewater transportation, such that no odor impacts associated with wastewater treatment would occur.
Table 5.3-6. Operation Emissions
NOx ROC CO PM10 Period Pounds/day Tons/year Pounds/day Tons/year Pounds/day Tons/year Pounds/day Tons/year
Peak Day 0.22 -- 0.09 -- 1.15 -- 0.01 --
Peak Year -- 0.002 -- 0.001 -- 0.009 -- 0.001
Threshold 25 NA 25 NA NA NA NA NA
Phase II. Construction. Peak day and annual construction emissions are expected to the very similar as that identified for Phase I (Tables 5.3-4 and 5.3-5). Therefore, Phase II would have the following less than significant impacts; construction-related NOx and PM10 emissions, and health risk associated with diesel fuel combustion. Fugitive dust emissions may increase the infection rate of valley fever in eastern Ventura County (Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley), where cases are generally more common. However, implementation of the dust control measures incorporated into the project would prevent significant impacts associated with valley fever. Operation. Peak day and annual operation emissions are expected to be very similar to that identified for Phase I (see Table 5.3-6), and are considered a less than significant impact to air quality. As discussed for Phase I, the proposed project would not result in any increases in odors. Cumulative. The Ventura Council of Governments projects that Ventura County will grow in population by 8 percent from 2001 to 2010, and by 18 percent by 2020. These population projections form the basis of the Ventura County General Plan. Most of this population growth is expected to occur in Ventura, Camarillo, Oxnard, Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks. Development projects associated with this growth may be under construction at the time the proposed project is implemented. The proposed project would incrementally contribute to construction emissions associated with these other projects, and would result in cumulative impacts to regional air quality. However, the incremental contribution of the proposed project would be small on a regional basis, such that cumulative impacts are considered less than significant.
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5.3.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Alternative A. Peak day emissions associated with Alternative A would be the same as the Proposed Action (see Table 5.3-4). Annual emissions would be slightly greater than the Proposed Action (see Table 5.3-5). Alternative A would have the following less than significant air quality impacts: construction-related NOx and PM10, and health risk associated with diesel fuel combustion. Alternative B. Peak day emissions associated with Alternative B would be the same as the Proposed Action (see Table 5.3-4). Annual emissions would be slightly greater than the Proposed Action and Alternative A (see Table 5.3-5). Alternative B would have the following less than significant air quality impacts: construction-related NOx and PM10, and health risk associated with diesel fuel combustion. Phase II. Peak day and annual emissions are expected to be very similar as that identified for Phase I (see Section 5.3.2.2). Due to the lack of information concerning Phase II construction scheduling, it is premature to compare the various alternative alignments. However, Phase II would have the following less than significant air quality impacts: construction-related NOx and PM10, and health risk associated with diesel fuel combustion. 5.3.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall Air emissions generated by construction activities associated with tie-in to the ocean outfall would be minimal, and were included in pipeline installation emissions estimates. The selection of an ocean outfall would have a negligible effect on air quality impacts. 5.3.2.5 No Action Alternative This Alternative would not result in any air emissions, existing water treatment and disposal practices would continue. 5.3.3 Mitigation Measures 5.3.3.1 Proposed Action No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.3.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.3.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.3.4 Residual Impacts 5.3.4.1 Proposed Action No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant.
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5.3.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant. 5.3.5 Federal Findings Section 176 of the 1990 Amendments to the Clean Air Act prohibits the Federal government from engaging in any activity that does not conform to the applicable air quality implementation plan. For the purposes of the proposed project, the applicable implementation plan is the California State Implementation Plan for Ozone. Ventura County is classified as a severe-15 non-attainment area for ozone, meaning the County must attain the Federal ozone standard by 2005. “Determining Conformity of General Federal Actions to State or Federal Implementation Plans” (40 CFR 93.153b) lists de minimis thresholds for non-attainment areas, which are emission levels below which a conformity determination is not required. The threshold for severe ozone non-attainment areas is 25 tons per year oxides of nitrogen (NOx) or volatile organic compounds (equivalent to ROC). Annual emissions for the Proposed Action and each Alternative are presented in Tables 5.3-5 and 5.3-6 for construction and operation, respectively. Construction emissions are not exempt from general conformity; however, they need only be accounted for (through offsets or mitigation) during the construction phase. As shown in Tables 5.3-5 and 5.3-6, operation- related and construction-related NOx emissions would not exceed the de minimis thresholds. Therefore, a conformity determination would not be required and construction emissions would be assumed to be minimal with respect to the emissions budget used to develop the State Implementation Plan.
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5.4 WATER RESOURCES The majority of the analysis presented in this Section is taken from “Calleguas Creek Brine Line EIR Water Quality Analysis” prepared by Larry Walker Associates. This Study is a comprehensive analysis of the potential ocean water quality, surface water quality and surface water quantity impacts of the Proposed Action and alternatives, and is available at the CMWD offices (2100 Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks) and their website (www.calleguas.com). The assumptions, methodology and findings of this Study are summarized in this Section. Calleguas Creek Brine Line EIR Water Quality Analysis (Larry Walker Associates, 2001) is also incorporated by reference under Section 15150 of the State CEQA Guidelines. 5.4.1 Affected Environment 5.4.1.1 Ocean Regulatory Framework California Ocean Plan. The principal regulatory document is the California Ocean Plan (“the Ocean Plan”) (State Water Resources Control Board 2001). The Ocean Plan sets forth water quality objectives for ocean waters to ensure the reasonable protection of beneficial uses and the prevention of nuisance. Numeric Water Quality Objectives. The Ocean Plan includes three sets of numeric water quality objectives, which are concentration values for various constituents that are not to be exceeded. These three sets of objectives were developed to protect both humans and marine life: • Protection of marine aquatic life, based on 6-month median, daily maximum and instantaneous maximum limits; • Protection of human health: non-carcinogens, based on 30-day average limits; and • Protection of human health: carcinogens, based on 30-day average limits. Ocean waters are protected by water quality objectives for water-contact recreation and for shellfish harvesting. Both the preferred and alternative ocean outfalls support water- contact recreation and shellfish harvesting as designated beneficial uses. Water quality objectives for the protection of shellfish harvesting are more stringent; therefore, these objectives are used for assessing compliance with the Ocean Plan. Narrative Water Quality Objectives. Physical characteristics given as ocean water quality objectives are: 1. Floating particulates and grease and oil shall not be visible. 2. The discharge of waste shall not cause aesthetically undesirable discoloration of the ocean surface. 3. Natural light shall not be significantly reduced at any point outside the initial dilution zone as the result of the discharge of waste. 4. The rate of deposition of inert solids and the characteristics of inert solids in ocean sediments shall not be changed such that benthic communities are degraded.
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Chemical standards given as ocean water quality objectives are: 1. The dissolved oxygen concentration shall not at any time be depressed more than 10 percent from that which occurs naturally, as the result of the discharge of oxygen demanding waste materials. 2. The pH shall not be changed at any time more than 0.2 units from that which occurs naturally. 3. The dissolved sulfide concentration of waters in and near sediments shall not be significantly increased above that present under natural conditions. 4. The concentration of substances set forth in Chapter II, Table B [water quality objectives], in marine sediments shall not be increased to levels which would degrade indigenous biota. 5. The concentration of organic materials in marine sediments shall not be increased to levels that would degrade marine life. 6. Nutrient materials shall not cause objectionable aquatic growths or degrade indigenous biota. Other biological characteristics protected by the Ocean Plan include: 1. Marine communities, including vertebrate, invertebrate, and plant species, shall not be degraded. 2. The natural taste, odor, and color of fish, shellfish, or other marine resources used for human consumption shall not be altered. 3. The concentration of organic materials in fish, shellfish or other marine resources used for human consumption shall not bioaccumulate to levels that are harmful to human health. 4. Discharge of radioactive waste shall not degrade marine life. Toxicity Testing. Many constituents with water quality objectives enumerated in the Ocean Plan are not monitored. Furthermore, synergistic effects from multiple pollutants in the effluent cannot be accounted for directly with individual limitations. To assess total effluent toxicity, testing on sensitive marine organisms is required by the Ocean Plan. It is expected that the NPDES permit issued for the proposed project would require toxicity testing to determine compliance with the Ocean Plan. Toxicity testing requirements in the Ocean Plan are based on the minimum initial dilution factor. Based on modeling results (dilution ratio less than 100:1), only chronic toxicity testing may be required. Toxicity testing is generally conducted for three biological groups: fish, invertebrates, and plants. The species and tests recommended by the Southern California Coastal Waters Research Program (Bay, 2001) are: • Fish – topsmelt minnow (Atherinops affinis) percent survival test.
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• Invertebrates – red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) abnormal shell development test, 48-hour sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) percent normal development test; and mycid shrimp (Holmesimysis genus) growth and survival tests. • Plants – giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) germination and germ tube length tests. These species (and alternatives) and associated toxicity test methods are tabulated in the Ocean Plan, Appendix III. Water Quality Testing. Compliance of the ocean outfall discharges with many water quality objectives in the Ocean Plan appear problematic in many cases because of high analytical detection limits. In some cases, lower detection limits, referred to in the Ocean Plan as “Minimum Levels”, can be employed to assess compliance. Minimum levels represent the lowest quantifiable concentration in a sample based on proper application of prescribed analytical methods. Currently, Reliant Energy conducts the following testing for their Ormond Beach outfall: • Water quality sampling at 9 stations for temperature, dissolved oxygen and pH; • Sediment monitoring for chromium, copper, nickel and zinc; • Tissue testing of bay mussels for chromium, copper, nickel and zinc; • Benthic (sea bottom) sampling of invertebrates; and • Sampling of fish caught (impinged) on the cooling water inlet screen. Beneficial Uses. The Ocean Plan specifies beneficial uses of nearshore ocean waters of California that shall be protected as: industrial water supply; water contact and non- contact recreation, including aesthetic enjoyment; navigation; commercial and sport fishing; mariculture (the culture of plants and animals in marine waters independent of any pollution source); preservation of rare and endangered species; marine habitat; and shellfish harvesting. The beneficial use designation of shellfish harvesting specifically poses more stringent objectives on total coliform bacteria concentrations. The current discharge permits for both ocean outfalls list shellfish harvesting as a beneficial use of the receiving waters. Existing Conditions at the Preferred Ocean Outfall. The Ormond Beach power plant is located adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, approximately one mile southeast of the City of Oxnard (see Figure 3-4), and consists of two power generating units rated at 750 megawatts each. The units are comprised of natural gas-fired boilers feeding steam turbines, which power electrical generators. Seawater is used to cool water/steam leaving the steam turbines. The cooling water intake is located approximately 1,900 feet offshore, at a depth of about 34 feet, however, the actual intake port is at a depth of about 25 feet. Seawater is screened to remove marine life and debris, and pumped to the power plant, where the temperature is increased by about 16.7 oC at full capacity.
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The intake water is also used to cool treated distilled water, and to dispose of other low volume pre-treated wastes. Once leaving the power plant, the heated seawater is discharged to the Pacific Ocean through a 14-foot diameter outfall located 1,790 feet offshore at a depth of 20 feet. A small fraction (290,000 gallons per day) of heated seawater passes through an adjacent mariculture laboratory before discharge through the ocean outfall. The purpose of this flow process is to enhance growth rates of the abalone. However, mariculture waste is not added to this water (as stipulated in the NPDES permit). Waters surrounding the Ormond Beach ocean outfall are monitored as part of the NPDES permit no. CA0001198. Based on the most recent monitoring report (MBC 2001), monthly mean water temperature varies from 13.3 oC to 16.7 oC, with mean maximum surface temperatures of 14.4 oC to 22.2 oC. Salinity varies from 24.1 mg/l during storm run-off to a high of 33.9 mg/L. Dissolved oxygen varies from 7.3 to 11.0 mg/L, depending on the presence of algal blooms (high photosynthesis rates) and mixing of oxygen-depleted subsurface water. Based on pre-treatment of the wastewater disposed, and dilution associated with massive volumes of cooling water, the only significant water pollutant from the power plant is heat. The effluent water temperature (for scenarios when the power plant is operating) is 96 oF (winter) – 105 oF (summer). The permitted effluent flow rate is 688.2 mgd (1034 cfs). The outfall has the capacity for additional flows (Bookman-Edmonston Engineering 1997). Cooling water is generally not needed during the winter and spring, when regional electrical demand is low. During these periods, the circulating pumps are not operating and intake or discharge of seawater does not occur. During 1994 through 2000, one exceedance of the 30-day average limit for copper
(9.5 µg/L) was recorded in May 1996 (16 µg/L). The chronic toxicity limit of 7.5 TUc was exceeded in September and October of 1996 with values of 16 and 8 TUc respectively. The chronic toxicity of effluent is expressed and reported in toxic units, where TUc = 100/NOEC. The No Observable Effect Concentration (NOEC) is expressed as the maximum percent effluent concentration that causes no observable effect on a test organism, as determined by the results of a critical life stage toxicity test. An investigation of the high TUc values and subsequent analysis of the effluent by another laboratory indicated that the toxicity exceedance may have been due to an error in laboratory procedures. Reliant Energy was issued an Administrative Civil Liability by the LARWQCB on December 27, 2000 for an exceedance of total suspended solids (effluent limit = 100 mg/L) on September 11, 2000 (detected at 140 mg/L) (Complaint No. 00-193). During review of NPDES compliance reports submitted for November 2000, it was noted that the laboratory detection limits for mercury, silver and chronic toxicity were greater than the NPDES limitations, such that compliance could not be determined. The detection limits for mercury (0.5 mg/L) and silver (5 mg/L) exceeded the 30-day average effluent limitations (0.297 and 4.21 mg/L respectively) and the result reported for the chronic toxicity (>10 TUc) is in excess of the chronic toxicity limit of 7.5 TUc. This indicates that water quality testing should be conducted using more sensitive instrumentation, consistent with the 2001 California Ocean Plan.
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5.4.1.2 Coastal and Inland Surface Water Regulatory Framework Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) Overview. The Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 and 1987, collectively known as the Clean Water Act (33 United States Code [USC] §§1251 et seq.), establish the principal Federal statutes for water quality protection. CWA was established with the intent “to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s water, to achieve a level of water quality which provides for recreation in and on the water, and for the propagation of fish and wildlife.” According to the 1998 National Water Quality Inventory (Inventory), a biennial summary of State surveys of water quality mandated by CWA, approximately 40 percent of the nation’s waters that were assessed did not meet water quality standards that have been established by the Federal and State governments. The Inventory lists 21,845 water bodies as “impaired”, or not meeting water quality standards, including over 5 million acres of lakes and estuaries, and over 300,000 river and shoreline miles. Approximately 218 million Americans live within 10 miles of a water body designated as impaired. The three most common causes of water body impairment listed in the Inventory are sediments, nutrients, and pathogens. Other main causes of impairment listed include lower dissolved oxygen concentrations, habitat and flow alterations, changes in pH, and inputs of metals, mercury, and pesticides. The 1998 Inventory indicates that approximately 10 percent of impaired waters are affected solely by point sources, approximately 47 percent by a combination of point and non-point sources, and 43 percent solely by non-point sources. There are several key sections of CWA that guide the regulation of water pollution in the United States. The most important sections of CWA in the context of affected streams are briefly discussed below. Section 208, Water Quality Control Plans. This section requires the preparation of local water quality control plans throughout the nation. Each water quality control plan covers a defined drainage area. The primary goal of each water quality control plan is attain water quality standards established by CWA and the State governments within the defined area of coverage. Minimum content requirements, preparation procedures, time constraints, and Federal grant funding criteria pertaining to the water quality control plans are established in Section 208. Preparation of the water quality control plans has been delegated to the individual States by the EPA. Section 303(d), Impaired Waters Program. Section 303(d) requires States, territories, and tribes to develop lists of impaired waters within their jurisdictions every two years. Impaired waters are those that do not meet water quality standards. States, territories, and tribes are also required to establish priority rankings for waters on their respective lists. Water bodies in a given State or territory are prioritized by comparing their existing degrees of pollution, and the sensitivity and importance of beneficial uses that are being threatened. The water bodies that are deemed most important are designated as “high priority”.
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Section 303(d) also requires States, territories, and tribes to develop Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for all water bodies on their respective lists of impaired waters. In essence, TMDLs are plans by which impaired water bodies would be restored such that they consistently meet the established water quality standard(s) that are currently being violated. TMDLs specify the maximum amount of pollutants that a water body can receive and still meet water quality standards, and allocates pollutant loads among point and non-point sources in the subject watershed. The intent of CWA is for the TMDL program to work hand in hand with the impaired waters lists; impaired waters are identified, and then restored to meet water quality standards. TMDLs must be prepared and implemented for all impaired waters within 8-13 years of their initial listing. Each of the major waterbodies of the Calleguas Creek watershed have been listed under Section 303(d) as impaired. Table 5.4-1 lists these waterbodies, and the pollutants contributing to impairment. At this time, TMDLs have not been established within the Calleguas Creek watershed. However, TMDLs are under development (or scheduled for development) for Fox Barranca (nitrogen, salts), Calleguas Creek (PCBs), lower Conejo Creek (water soluble pesticides), Arroyo Simi (chlorides, selenium, metals), Arroyo Las Posas (historic pesticide use) and Mugu Lagoon (historic pesticide use, mercury, metals).
Table 5.4-1. Impaired Waters of the Calleguas Creek Watershed
Waterbody Pollutant
Chlordane, copper, dacthal, DDT, endosulfan, mercury, nickel, nitrogen, PCBs, Mugu Lagoon sediment toxicity, siltation, zinc
Arroyo Las Posas Ammonia, chloride, DDT, nitrogen, sulfates, TDS
Arroyo Simi Ammonia, boron, chloride, chromium, nickel, selenium, silver, sulfates, TDS, zinc
Ammonia, ChemA, chlordane, DDT, endosulfan, nitrogen, PCBs, sediment toxicity, Calleguas Creek toxaphene, toxicity
Ammonia, cadmium, ChemA, chromium, dacthal, DDT, endosulfan, nickel, silver, Conejo Creek sulfates, TDS, toxaphene, toxicity
Arroyo Conejo Ammonia, chlordane, DDT, sulfates, TDS
ChemA, chlordane, chlorpyrifos, dacthal, DDT, dieldrin, endosulfan, nitrogen, Revolon Slough PCBs, selenium, toxaphene, toxicity
Section 401, Water Quality Certifications. This section of CWA requires that, prior to the issuance of a Federal license or permit for an activity or activities that may result in a discharge of pollutants into navigable waters (see Section 404 discussion, below), the permit applicant must first obtain a certification from the State in which the discharge would originate. A State certification indicates that the proposed activity or activities would not result in a violation of applicable water quality standards established by Federal or State law, or that there are no water quality standards that apply to the proposed activity. Water quality certifications would be required as part of any Section 404 permits issued by the Corps for trenched pipeline crossings of waters of the U.S.
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Section 402, NPDES. NPDES requires permits for pollution discharges into water bodies such that the permitted discharge does not cause a violation of Federal and State water quality standards. NPDES permits define quantitative and/or qualitative pollution limitations for the permitted source, and control measures which must be implemented to achieve the pollution limitations. Pollution control measures are often referred to as Best Management Practices, or BMPs. Simply put, BMPs are practical ways of reducing water pollution. The term BMP can be used to describe a wide variety of pollution control measures. One example of a BMP is to install filtration equipment to remove pollutants from industrial wastewater. Other types of BMPs include periodically cleaning out urban storm drains to reduce pollutant loads (e.g., debris, sediments, etc.) in urban storm water runoff, and installing soil containment devices (e.g., silt fencing) around construction sites to reduce erosion of sediments into surface waters. Section 402 identifies the types of dischargers that are required to obtain NPDES permits, and establishes a timetable for NPDES program implementation, which is being carried out in two major phases: Phases I and II. Since 1990, Phase I NPDES regulations have required permits for storm water discharges from the following types of sources: • Major industrial point sources such as wastewater treatment plants, electricity generating stations, industrial factories, mining operations, etc.; • Construction activities disturbing five or more acres or land, and; • Municipal storm water systems serving populations of 100,000 persons or more. In 1999, EPA established Phase II NPDES regulations, which will expand the existing NPDES program to include the following categories of pollution sources: • All municipalities within designated urbanized areas, and small municipalities outside of designated urbanized areas with a population of at least 10,000 and/or a population density of at least 1,000 persons per square mile, and; • Construction activities that disturb between one and five acres of land. The proposed project would be subject to the Statewide General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity. This permit applies to all construction projects that would disturb more than 5 acres, and requires the development and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (including all applicable BMPs) and to eliminate or reduce non-storm discharges to storm water systems and other waters of the U.S. Section 404, Discharge of Dredge and Fill Material. Section 404 assigns the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), with permitting authority for proposed discharges of dredged and fill material into waters of the United States. Waters of the U.S. are defined as “…waters which are currently used, or were used in the past, or may be susceptible to use in interstate or foreign commerce, including all waters which are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide; territorial seas and tributaries to such waters.”
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The Corps typically considers all natural drainages with defined beds and banks to be waters of the U.S. Section 404 establishes procedures by which the permitting agency is to review, condition, approve, and deny permit requests. Per the regulations, permitting agencies are responsible to conduct public noticing and provide the opportunity for public hearings during the review of each permit request. This includes informing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and/or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) of each permit request. Consultation with USFWS and/or NMFS is required for proposed discharges that could impact species protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act. Measures that are required by USFWS and/or NMFS to minimize impacts to Federally protected species must be included as conditions of the permit. The proposed project would require Section 404 permits for any trenched stream crossings, which may include consultation with USFWS concerning the endangered least Bell’s vireo along Segment B-C. California Porter-Cologne Act. The Porter-Cologne Act (California Water Code Section 13000) is the principal law governing water quality regulation in California. It establishes a comprehensive program to protect water quality and the beneficial uses of water. The Porter-Cologne Act applies to surface waters, wetlands, and groundwater, and to both point and non-point sources of pollution. Pursuant to the Porter-Cologne Act, it is the policy of the State: • The quality of all the waters of the State shall be protected; • All activities and factors affecting the quality of water shall be regulated to attain the highest water quality within reason, and; • The State must be prepared to exercise its full power and jurisdiction to protect the quality of water in the State from degradation. Pursuant to the Porter-Cologne Act, the responsibility for protection of water quality in California rests with the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). The SWRCB administers Federal and State water quality regulations for California’s ocean waters, and also oversees and funds the State’s nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs). The RWQCBs prepare water quality control plans, establish water quality objectives, and carry out Federal and State water quality regulations and permitting duties for inland water bodies, enclosed bays, and estuaries within their respective regions. The Porter-Cologne Act gives the SWRCB and RWQCBs broad powers to protect water quality by regulating waste dischargers to water and land, and requiring clean up of hazardous wastes. The RWQCBs regulate discharges under the Porter-Cologne Act primarily through issuance of NPDES and waste discharge report permits. Anyone discharging or proposing to discharge materials that could affect water quality (other than to a community sanitary sewer system regulated by an NPDES permit) must file a report of waste discharge. The Porter- Cologne Act provides RWQCBs with several options for enforcing regulations, including cease and desist orders, cleanup and abatement orders, administrative civil liability orders, civil court actions, and criminal prosecutions.
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Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. As indicated above, the California Porter-Cologne Act assigns the SWRCB and RWQCBs with the responsibility of protecting surface water and groundwater quality in California. Each RWQCB’s jurisdiction covers one of the State’s nine regional hydrologic units. The RWQCB’s duties include the preparation and implementation of Water Quality Control Plans, regulation of waste discharges to water and land, and administration of a number of other programs, including the impaired waters and TMDL programs mandated by CWA. The RWQCBs also consider requests for water quality certifications mandated by CWA Section 401. The Calleguas Creek watershed is within the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (LARWQCB), which includes coastal drainages from Rincon Point (western boundary of Ventura County) to the eastern Los Angeles County boundary. Water Quality Control Plan, Los Angeles Region. Per the requirements of the CWA and the California Porter-Cologne Act, LARWQCB has prepared a Water Quality Control Plan for the watersheds under its jurisdiction. The Water Quality Control Plans from all nine of the RWQCBs and the California Ocean Plan (prepared and implemented by SWRCB) collectively constitute the State Water Quality Control Plan. Water Quality Control Plan, Los Angeles Region has been designed to support the intentions of the CWA and the Porter-Cologne Act by: (1) characterizing watersheds within the Los Angeles Region; (2) identifying beneficial uses that exist or have the potential to exist in each water body; (3) establishing water quality objectives for each water body to protect beneficial uses or allow their restoration, and; (4) providing an implementation program that achieves water quality objectives. Implementation program measures include monitoring, permitting, and enforcement activities. Per the requirements of CWA Section 303(c), the Water Quality Control Plan is reviewed every three years and revised as necessary to address problems with the plan, and meet new legislative requirements. Beneficial uses designated by LARWQCB in the Water Quality Control Plan for the Calleguas Creek watershed are listed in Table 5.4-2. Beneficial uses are potential uses of surface waters and groundwater that could be supported, including water supply, recharge of groundwater supplies, recreation and wildlife habitat. The Water Quality Control Plan establishes general qualitative and/or quantitative water objectives that apply to all inland surface waters, estuaries, and enclosed bays in the Los Angeles Region. The general objectives pertain to the following water quality parameters: color, taste and odors, floating material, suspended material, settleable material, oil and grease, biostimulatory substances (e.g., nutrients), sediment, turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, toxicity pesticides, chemical constituents, other organics, and radioactivity. The Water Quality Control Plan also provides water quality objectives for specific beneficial uses such as municipal water supply, agriculture, cold freshwater aquatic life habitat, fish spawning habitat, recreation, etc. Water quality parameters of concern and numeric objectives vary considerably depending on the nature of the beneficial use. For example, objectives for municipal water supply and fish spawning habitat are much more stringent and apply to a greater number of parameters than those for agricultural or industrial water supply. The Water Quality Control Plan also establishes several specific water quality objectives for the Calleguas Creek watershed. Tables 5.4-5 and 5.4-6 include water quality objectives applicable to the proposed project.
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Table 5.4-2. Beneficial Uses of the Calleguas Creek Watershed
Waterbody Beneficial Uses
Navigation, water-contact recreation (potential), non-water contact recreation, commercial and sport fishing, estuarine habitat, marine habitat, wildlife habitat, Mugu Lagoon preservation of biological habitats, rare, threatened or endangered species habitat, migration of aquatic organisms, spawning habitat, shellfish harvesting, wetland habitat
Municipal water supply (potential), industrial water supply (potential), industrial process supply (potential), agricultural supply (potential), groundwater replenishment, navigation, Arroyo Las Posas water-contact recreation, non-water contact recreation, warm freshwater habitat, cold freshwater habitat (potential), wildlife habitat
Municipal water supply (intermittent), industrial water supply (intermittent), groundwater replenishment (intermittent), freshwater replenishment (intermittent), water-contact Arroyo Simi recreation (intermittent), non-water contact recreation (intermittent), warm freshwater habitat (intermittent), wildlife habitat
Municipal water supply (potential), industrial water supply, industrial process supply, Calleguas Creek agricultural supply, groundwater replenishment, water-contact recreation, non-water contact recreation, warm freshwater habitat, wildlife habitat, wetland habitat
Municipal water supply (potential), industrial water supply, industrial process supply, Conejo Creek agricultural supply, groundwater replenishment, water-contact recreation, non-water contact recreation, warm freshwater habitat, wildlife habitat
Municipal water supply (potential), groundwater replenishment (intermittent), freshwater Arroyo Conejo replenishment (intermittent), water-contact recreation (intermittent), non-water contact recreation (intermittent), warm freshwater habitat (intermittent), wildlife habitat
Municipal water supply (potential), industrial water supply (potential), agricultural supply, Revolon Slough groundwater replenishment, water-contact recreation, non-water contact recreation, warm freshwater habitat, wildlife habitat, wetland habitat
Waste Discharge Permitting. LARWQCB is responsible for administering the State Waste Discharge Program for discharges to land and the Federally delegated NPDES program for discharges to surface waters. NPDES mandates that proponents of regulated activities that would result in a discharge of waste to a water body must obtain a permit from the permitting agency (LARWQCB locally), and adhere to any conditions imposed by the permitting agency to protect public health and water quality. See the discussion of CWA Section 402 for details on the NPDES program. Impaired Waters, TMDLs. Consistent with the requirements of CWA Section 303(d), LARWQCB identifies impaired waters and prepares TMDLs for impaired waters within its jurisdiction.
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5.4.1.3 Baseline Stream Flow and Water Quality Data Currently, natural surface flow in the Watershed is augmented by: 1. Discharge of groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells to Arroyo Simi; 2. Discharge of tertiary-treated effluent from the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant (Simi Valley WQCP) to Arroyo Simi; 3. Discharge of tertiary-treated effluent from the Hill Canyon Wastewater Treatment Plant to Arroyo Conejo; and 4. Discharge of tertiary-treated effluent from the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Camarillo WRP) to Conejo Creek. In addition, wastewater is occasionally discharged during wet weather periods from the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant (MWTP) to Arroyo Las Posas, and from the Camrosa Water District Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF) to Calleguas Creek. Currently, a portion of the Simi Valley WQCP effluent is reclaimed for irrigation purposes. The amount of effluent reclaimed is expected to increase over time, reducing the amount discharged to Arroyo Simi. However, this effect may be offset by the overall increase in wastewater production as the City’s population grows. In addition, up to 10 cfs of the Hill Canyon Treatment Plant effluent discharged to Arroyo Conejo will be recaptured from Conejo Creek as part of the Conejo Creek Diversion Project. This Project involves stream diversion from Conejo Creek (immediately downstream of the U.S. 101 crossing), storage and distribution of this wastewater to agricultural users, and is expected to begin operation as early as 2002. Dry season surface flow data was collected and analyzed to develop a stream flow model. The model and its assumptions are discussed in Section 5.4.2.2 under “Surface Water Quality”. Wet season flows were not considered because the relative amount of surface flow contributed by wastewater discharge is very low during high flow periods. Impacts associated with reduced wastewater discharge to surface waters would be most pronounced during the dry season. Existing surface flow volumes from the model are presented in Table 5.4-7. Existing surface water quality for stream reaches potentially affected by the proposed project was obtained from the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study and is presented in Tables 5.4-5 and 5.4-6. 5.4.1.4 Groundwater Environment and Water Quality Data Regional. The project area lies within the Santa Clara-Calleguas Hydrologic Unit. The Santa Clara-Calleguas Hydrologic Unit covers most of Ventura County, part of northern Los Angeles County, and small parts of Santa Barbara and Kern Counties; comprising a total drainage area of 1,760 square miles. The Santa Clara River and Calleguas Creek are the major streams in this area, draining the San Gabriel Mountains, Santa Susana Mountains, Oak Ridge, South Mountain, Simi Hills, Sawmill, Liebre and Frazier Mountains. Large reserves of groundwater exist in alluvial aquifers underlying the Oxnard Plain and along valleys of the Santa Clara River and its tributaries (LARWQCB 1994).
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According to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Coastal Basins of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties (LARWQCB 1994), the project area is underlain by the Ventura Central Groundwater Basins, including the Oxnard Plain, Pleasant Valley, Santa Rosa, North Las Posas, and South Las Posas groundwater basins, and by the Simi Valley and Tierra Rejada groundwater basins (Figure 5.4-1). These groundwater basins are primarily recharged by Calleguas Creek and its tributaries, which include Revelon Slough, Conejo Creek, Arroyo Conejo, Arroyo Las Posas and Arroyo Simi. Downstream of its tributaries, Calleguas Creek drains a predominantly agricultural area on the Oxnard Plain and empties into Mugu Lagoon. While natural flows in the past were intermittent, discharges of municipal, agricultural, and urban wastewaters have increased surface flow in the watershed resulting in increased sedimentation in the lagoon, and additional problems produced by irrigation return-flows which add nutrients, pesticides, and other dissolved constituents to the creek and its tributaries (LARWQCB 1994). Beneficial uses have been designated by the LARWQCB, setting narrative and numerical objectives for water quality protection of groundwaters. Ground water accounts for most of the Region’s local (i.e., non-imported) supply of fresh water, and accordingly, many groundwater basins are designated as municipal and domestic supply. Other beneficial uses designated to groundwater basins may include industrial process supply, or the use of water for industrial activities that depend primarily on water quality; industrial service supply, or the use of water for industrial activities that do not depend primarily on water quality including, but not limited to, mining, cooling water supply, hydraulic conveyance, gravel washing, fire protection, or oil well re-pressurization; agricultural supply, or the use of water for farming, horticulture, or ranching including, but not limited to, irrigation, stock watering, or support of vegetation for range grazing; and aquaculture, or the use of water for aquaculture or mariculture operations including, but not limited to, propagation, cultivation, maintenance, or harvesting of aquatic plants and animals for humans consumption or bait purposes (LARWQCB 1994). The general quality of the groundwater in the Region has degraded substantially from background levels (LARWQCB 1994). Much of the degradation reflects land uses such as fertilizers and pesticides from agricultural lands, overloaded or improperly sited septic tanks, and industrial or commercial activities using aboveground and underground storage tanks containing hazardous substances (e.g., petroleum fuels, or solvents), which may have leaked or are leaking into the subsurface. All of these land uses, when inadequately implemented, have resulted in contamination into the subsurface and have polluted the groundwater. Specific groundwater quality problems for the Ventura Central Groundwater Basins include overdraft, degradation, and contamination. Overdraft is defined as the condition of a groundwater basin in which the amount of water withdrawn by pumping exceeds the amount of water that recharges the basin over a period of years during which water supply conditions are about average (DWR 1999). Despite efforts to artificially recharge groundwater and to control efforts of pumping, groundwater in several of the Ventura Central basins has been, and continues to be, overdrafted (particularly in the Oxnard Plain and Pleasant Valley areas).
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Figure 5.4-1. Groundwater Basin Map (click to view)
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BACK OF COLOR FIGURE
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Some of the aquifers in these basins are in hydraulic continuity with seawater; thus seawater is intruding further inland, degrading large volumes of groundwater with high concentrations of chloride. In addition, nutrients and other dissolved constituents in irrigation return-flows are seeping into shallow aquifers and degrading groundwater in these basins. Furthermore, degradation and cross-contamination are occurring as degraded or contaminated groundwater travels between aquifers through abandoned and improperly sealed wells and corroded active wells. Residential septic systems, such as the El Rio area (to the northwest of Oxnard), represent another source of pollution to groundwater in the Ventura Central Basins. In many wells in the El Rio area, nitrate is present in levels exceeding maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) established by the State and Federal government (LARWQCB 1994). Beginning in June of 1996, Calleguas Municipal Water District developed and administered the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study. This study was conducted in response to the LARWQCB requirement for all publicly owned treatment works within the Calleguas Creek watershed to characterize water quality with the watershed and determine dischargers’ contributions to the quality of surface and groundwater. As part of the study, a coordinated water quality monitoring program (CMP) was undertaken by Bookman-Edmonston Engineering/Navigant Consulting (2000) at 22 well locations throughout the above-mentioned groundwater basins. The approximate location of each of these 22 wells is provided on Figure 5.4-1. Each constituent was compared to California drinking water Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) or California Department of Health Services Action Level (AL) standards. Constituents exceeding these standards within each groundwater basin are described below, along with each basin’s overdraft status and designated beneficial uses. Oxnard Plain. Two wells were sampled as part of the CMP within the Oxnard Plain groundwater basin: Guadalasca Mutual Water Company no. 6, Ocean View School District Laguna Vista no. 1. Samples from each well exceeded MCLs for total dissolved solids (TDS), sulfate, iron, and manganese. Coliform bacteria was detected at the Guadalasca Mutual Water Company no. 6 well. Other constituents such as chloride and other minerals, nitrite, ammonia nitrogen, phosphorus, and trace metals were detected at these wells, but not in levels exceeding the MCL or AL standards. According to the 1996 California Water Quality Assessment Report, elevated nitrate concentrations were detected in the Oxnard Basin (SWRCB 1997). Izbicki (1993) assessed seawater intrusion into the Oxnard Plain’s aquifers, and confirmed the presence of chlorides in groundwater wells, but to a lesser extent than previously believed. The redefined areal extent of seawater intrusion in 1993 was 5.5-square miles in the Oxnard aquifer and 3.3-square miles in the Mugu aquifer, considerably less that the 23-square miles (of the upper aquifer system) mapped in previous studies (Izbicki 1993). However, saltwater intrusion is still considered to have substantially degraded the Oxnard Plain groundwater basin. This may be particularly true within two miles of the coastline (SWRCB 1997). Combined with the Pleasant Valley groundwater basin, which is roughly delineated by Revolon Slough (see Figure 5.4-1), the overdraft of these two groundwater basins is an accumulated volume of approximately 30,000 to 35,000 acre/ft. The Oxnard Forebay (a segregated aquifer) is not included in this calculation due to differing geologic formations at depth (pers. com. Ken Turner, UWCD).
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For confined aquifers within the Oxnard Plain, and for the Oxnard Forebay, existing beneficial uses include municipal and domestic supply, industrial service supply, industrial process supply, and agricultural supply. For unconfined and perched aquifers, existing beneficial uses include municipal and domestic supply, and agricultural supply; and potential beneficial uses include industrial service supply (LARWQCB 1994). Pleasant Valley. Seven wells were sampled within the Pleasant Valley groundwater basin as part of the CMP; CMP MW-1, MW-2, MW-3, Camrosa Water District MW-1, MW-2, Vujovich, St. John’s Seminary. Samples from each well exceeded the MCL for TDS. Sulfate levels exceeded the MCL at all but the CMP MW-1 well. Chloride levels exceeded the MCL at two of the wells (CMP MW-3, Camrosa MW-1). Trace metals such as manganese, iron, arsenic, and boron exceeded the applicable MCLs or AL at six, five, one and one of the wells, respectively. Nitrate levels exceeded the MCL at three of the wells. Coliform bacteria was detected at two of the wells. Uranium levels exceeded the MCL at one of the wells. Other constituents such as other minerals, other nitrogenous compounds, phosphorus, and other trace metals were detected at these wells, but not in levels exceeding the MCL or AL standards. Combined with the Oxnard Plain groundwater basin, which is roughly delineated by the Revolon Slough (see Figure 5.4-1), the overdraft of these two groundwater basins is an accumulated volume of approximately 30,000 to 35,000 acre/ft (pers. com. Ken Turner, UWCD). For confined aquifers within the Pleasant Valley groundwater basin, existing beneficial uses include municipal and domestic supply, industrial service supply, industrial process supply, and agricultural supply. For unconfined and perched aquifers, existing beneficial uses include industrial service supply, industrial process supply, and agricultural supply; and potential beneficial uses include municipal and domestic supply (LARWQCB 1994). Las Posas. The one well sampled within the North Las Posas groundwater basin as part of the CMP (Zone Mutual Water Company no. 20) indicated levels of TDS, sulfate, manganese, and uranium exceeding MCLs. Other constituents such as other minerals, nitrogenous compounds, phosphorus, and other trace metals were detected at these wells, but not in levels exceeding the MCL or AL standards. The four wells sampled within the South Las Posas groundwater basin as part of the CMP (MWTP MW-1, MW-2, City of Moorpark Arroyo Vista no. 1, Simi Valley Water WQCP MW- 2) all exceeded the MCL for TDS. The sulfate and chloride MCLs were exceeded at three and two of the wells, respectively. Trace metals such as iron, boron and manganese exceeded the MCLs or ALs at two, three and two of the wells, respectively. Nitrate levels exceeded the MCL at one of the wells. Coliform bacteria (non-fecal) were detected at two of the wells. Uranium was detected at levels exceeded the MCL at two of the wells. Constituents such as other minerals, other nitrogenous compounds, phosphorus, other trace metals, and uranium were detected at these wells, but not in levels exceeding the MCL or AL standards. In general, groundwater levels in the Las Posas Basin have declined since development of the basin began, although some areas of the basin have experienced increases in groundwater levels. Ground water levels in the west side of the basin have been steadily declining due to pumping. Ground water levels have declined as much as 140 feet between 1977 and 1991. Ground water levels have declined to a lesser extent on the east side of the basin, and have risen in the southwestern area of the basin as much as 180 feet between 1977 and 1991 (Fugro West 1995a).
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Designated beneficial uses of the Las Posas groundwater basin include municipal and domestic supply, industrial service supply, industrial process supply, and agricultural supply (LARWQCB 1994). Santa Rosa. Six wells were sampled within the Santa Rosa groundwater basin as part of the CMP (Sasaki, Camlam Farms, CMP MW-5, MW-6, Santa Rosa Mutual Water Company nos. 8A, 9). Samples from each well indicated TDS levels exceeding the MCL. Iron and manganese were detected at levels exceeding the MCLs at two and one of the wells, respectively. Nitrate was detected at levels exceeding the MCL at two of the wells. Coliform bacteria was detected at one of the wells (Sasaki). Constituents such as other minerals including sulfate and chloride, other nitrogenous compounds, phosphorus, and other trace metals were detected at these wells, but not in levels exceeding the MCL or AL standards. According to the 1996 California Water Quality Assessment Report, blending is required due to nitrate contamination, and elevated levels of ethylene dibromide and dibromo-chloropropane were detected (SWRCB 1997). Ground water level data show water levels are relatively stable throughout the Santa Rosa groundwater basin. The stable water levels are believed to be the result of decreased extractions and increased recharge to aquifers from precipitation and infiltration of streamflow from Arroyo Conejo. The infiltration of Hill Canyon Water Treatment Plant effluent is a major component of the water balance in the Santa Rosa Valley, likely comprising 50 percent of total recharge to the basin (Stahl, Gardner & Dunne 1994). Designated beneficial uses of the Arroyo Santa Rosa groundwater basin include municipal and domestic supply, industrial service supply, industrial process supply, and agricultural supply (LARWQCB 1994). Simi Valley. The one well sampled within the Simi Valley groundwater basin as part of the CMP (CMP MW-4) indicated the MCLs or ALs were exceeded for TDS, chloride, iron, boron and the volatile organic compound methyl-tert-butyl-ether (MTBE). Constituents such as other minerals, nitrogenous compounds, phosphorus, and other trace metals were detected at this well, but not in levels exceeding the MCL or AL standards. The storage capacity of the Simi Valley basin is estimated at 180,000 acre-feet, and the perennial yield is estimated to be 4,700 acre-feet per year. Current annual groundwater production is estimated to be approximately 3,000 acre-feet, of which about 2,400 acre-feet is extracted by the five Simi Valley dewatering wells. These dewatering wells are designed to reduce shallow groundwater levels that have resulted in structural damage to public and private property. For confined aquifers within the Simi Valley groundwater basin, existing beneficial uses include municipal and domestic supply, industrial service supply, industrial process supply, and agricultural supply. For unconfined and perched aquifers, existing beneficial uses include municipal and domestic supply, industrial service supply, industrial process supply, and agricultural supply (LARWQCB 1994). Tierra Rejada. The one well sampled within the Tierra Rejada groundwater basin as part of the CMP (Camrosa Water District Tierra Rejada well) indicated the MCL for TDS was exceeded. Constituents such sulfate, chloride, nitrate, iron, arsenic and boron were detected at this well, but not in levels exceeding the MCL or AL standards.
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According to the Ventura County General Plan (1994a), the Tierra Rejada groundwater basin was determined to have adequate water supply availability in 1988. For the year 2000, a projection of water supply availability was also adequate. Thus, it is unlikely that overdraft of the Tierra Rejada groundwater basin will occur. For the Tierra Rejada groundwater basin, existing beneficial uses include municipal and domestic supply, and agricultural supply. Potential beneficial uses include industrial service supply, industrial process supply (LARWQCB 1994). 5.4.2 Environmental Consequences 5.4.2.1 Significance Thresholds Construction. Any project-related exceedance of the water quality objectives of the Water Quality Control Plan is considered a significant impact. Marine Waters. Any project-related exceedance of the water quality objectives of the Water Quality Control Plan or Ocean Plan is considered a significant impact. By complying with these Plans, it is expected that the receiving waters are protected for aquatic life (including shellfish), water contact recreation, and other designated beneficial uses. The Ocean Plan water quality objectives apply at the edge of the initial mixing zone. For shallow water submerged discharges (Ormond Beach outfall), the Ocean Plan defines initial dilution as completed when the momentum induced velocity of the discharge ceases to produce significant mixing. Therefore, to determine compliance, effluent concentrations are multiplied by the dilution factor, adjusted for ambient concentrations where applicable, and compared to the Ocean Plan water quality objectives. In general, discharges would be determined out of compliance if the concentration of a pollutant in the effluent meets both of the following criteria: • greater than the effluent limitation; and • greater than or equal to the reported minimum level. The minimum level is defined in the Ocean Plan as the concentration at which the entire analytical system for measuring a constituent’s concentration gives a recognizable signal and acceptable calibration point. Since many constituents were not detected and detection limits are generally greater than the effluent limit, this second criteria is more relevant. Surface Waters. Any project-related exceedance of the water quality objectives of the Water Quality Control Plan is considered a significant impact. By complying with this Plan, it is expected that surface waters are protected for aquatic life, wildlife, water contact recreation, and other designated beneficial uses. In addition, any reduction in water quantity that may threaten beneficial uses is considered a significant impact. Water quality standards from the California Toxics Rule (Federal Register Vol. 65 No. 97, pp. 31682-31719, May 18, 2000) are used as thresholds of significance for priority toxic pollutants in surface waters. Groundwater. Any project-related exceedance of the water quality objectives of the Water Quality Control Plan is considered a significant impact. By complying with this Plan, it is expected that groundwaters are protected for designated beneficial uses.
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5.4.2.2 Proposed Action Project-Specific Impacts Construction Impacts. Pipeline crossings of major streams (Calleguas Creek, Revolon Slough, Conejo Creek, Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas) would be conducted by tunneling and would avoid direct impacts to water quality. However, smaller streams (including Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon, Fox Barranca) would be crossed using trenching methodology. Trench excavation and other use of heavy equipment within and adjacent to these streams could result in the suspension of sediment in surface water. Even in the dry season, trenching and other soil and vegetation disturbance in streambeds may result in accelerated erosion of the bed and bank, and any deposited earth material during the first major storm, causing increased turbidity and sedimentation. In addition, runoff of storm water during installation of these pipeline crossings and other pipeline segments in close proximity to surface waters may transport sediment and other pollutants to these creeks. The proposed project would be subject to the Statewide General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity, and would need to submit a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan to eliminate or reduce non-storm discharges to storm water systems and other waters of the U.S. Suspended sediment generated by construction activity within or adjacent to surface waters and storm run-off would result in an increase in turbidity that would likely exceed water quality objectives. Exposure of organic materials within the sediments could increase biological oxygen demand by bacterial decomposers at the sediment-water interface (Wetzel, 1975). Respiration by these bacteria could reduce dissolved oxygen in the water column below the 5 mg/l objective developed to protect warm freshwater habitat. Pollutants bound to the sediments would be re-suspended and may include biostimulatory substances (excess nutrients), inorganic chemicals (mostly heavy metals), organic chemicals (including pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls), and oil and grease. The 1998 California 303(d) list of impaired waters indicates both Arroyo Las Posas and Calleguas Creek have high levels of DDT in bottom sediment. These pollutants may be temporarily available to aquatic organisms at higher than pre-project concentrations. Biostimulatory substances (primarily nutrients) could result in the proliferation of aquatic vegetation and algae downstream and affect beneficial uses, including warm freshwater habitat and wildlife terrestrial habitat. Inorganic chemicals could result in direct toxicity of aquatic organisms. Organic chemicals (primarily pesticides) could result in direct toxicity of aquatic organisms and/or bioaccumulation within vertebrate animals. Pesticides are generally insoluble in water, but are readily adsorbed by the sediments. Pesticides are particularly harmful to crustaceans, but are also toxic to shellfish, fish, and humans. Uptake of pesticides by aquatic organisms may occur by the ingestion of suspended sediment or diffusion through the skin (Hart and Fuller, 1979).
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Increases in turbidity and settleable materials can result in physical effects that adversely affect beneficial uses related to fisheries habitat and wetlands. Increased turbidity would reduce light penetration, which may reduce primary productivity of phytoplankton, benthic algae, and bacteria. Reduced primary productivity may adversely affect fisheries by reducing the food supply (zooplankton) of most larval and many adult fish. Sedimentation may smother fish eggs and larvae, smother benthic invertebrates, and alter the substrate composition. Substrate composition is important for breeding in fish species. Overall, construction activities are expected to result in exceedances of water quality objectives for turbidity, nutrients, inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, oil and grease, which is considered a significant water quality impact (Impact WR-1). Ocean Water Quality. The proposed project would result in the collection and transportation of brine and treated municipal wastewater to the Pacific Ocean, through an existing ocean outfall. The following analysis addresses the water quality impact of this discharge. The proposed project is in a preliminary planning stage, such that not all possible sources of wastewater or brine have been identified, and actual flow rates from identified sources may be quite different than estimated in Table 3-1. However, this analysis is focused on providing a reasonable worst-case assessment, by using maximum anticipated flows and all known effluent water quality data for these sources. When in operation, the proportion of flow from the various sources are expected to vary on an annual basis with seasonal demands for reclaimed water, and vary in the long-term as population growth occurs at higher rates in some areas and as additional reclaimed water projects are implemented. As discussed in Section 1.1.1, future environmental assessment may be required when the pipeline alignments, water volume and water quality parameters of the project are known with greater certainty. This assessment would likely include further analysis of potential ocean water quality impacts when more specific information regarding the intended volume and quality of wastewater to be discharged to the proposed pipeline system is known for each contributor. It is likely that dilution modeling would be repeated each time a major wastewater contributor (or group of smaller industrial or agricultural contributors) commits to using the proposed pipeline system. Assumptions and Methodology. Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a physical filtering process whereby water is forced by pressure through a semi-permeable membrane. High pressure is often required, as the water must flow against the osmotic pressure caused by the dissolved salts in the wastewater. A large fraction of dissolved constituents (as well as any particulate matter) are prevented from passing through the membrane. RO systems may operate with single-pass filters (~25 percent reject water) or double-pass filters (~10 percent reject water). A rejection rate of 20 percent is assumed for this analysis, meaning that 80 percent of the influent would pass through the filters as RO-treated water. It is conservatively assumed that there would be no pre-treatment removing constituents from the groundwater or wastewater prior to RO treatment. The use of RO technology to reduce TDS levels would also result in the reduction in the levels of other constituents present in the treated wastewater or groundwater. This process would effectively concentrate these constituents within the brine. These constituents include minerals, nutrients, metals and organic compounds.
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Results from City of San Diego (1992), National Research Council (1993), West Basin Municipal Water District (McGovern, 2001), Orange County Water District (Deshmukh, 2001) and Port Hueneme Water Agency (Richardson, 2001) form the basis for the treatment (removal) efficiencies assumed in this analysis. Design specifications for TDS reduction processes that may be used by facilities discharging to the proposed pipeline system are not known. However, RO technology has improved over the past five years, from using a cellulose- acetate membrane and multi-media filtration to a thin-film composite membrane with micro- filtration. Low-fouling membranes are the next technological advancement available today. Therefore, removal efficiencies may be greater than the values assumed in this analysis. Where the data are sparse (>50 percent of the values are below the detection limit, or non- detects) or not available, a nominal removal efficiency of 99 percent is assumed as a worst-case scenario for the proposed project. This condition was uniformly applied for organic compounds, which were greater than 90 percent non-detected for both influent and effluent in the available dataset. For this analysis, it is assumed that flow rate to the outfall is constant and at capacity from identified sources of wastewater (100 percent scenario, see Table 3-1). The constituents assessed for compliance in this document are a subset of the entire list of pollutants with water quality objectives in the Ocean Plan. A number of constituents regulated by the Ocean Plan are not assessed due to the lack of data for either the wastewater treatment facilities or the groundwater wells. Data for all water quality constituents regulated under the Ocean Plan would be gathered for each potential discharger to the proposed pipeline as part of future environmental assessment. This assessment focuses on compliance with chronic water quality objectives (generally a 30 day average), based on median constituent concentrations from each wastewater source aggregated into flow-weighted composite values. The chronic water quality objectives are most restrictive, and thus best identify compliance issues. Based on a recommendation from the SWRCB, the model selected to describe the outfalls’ plume characteristics is UM3, a component of Visual Plumes (Frick et al., 2001). Visual Plumes is a Windows-based enhancement of the DOS-based PLUMES mixing zone modeling system, which it is intended to supersede. UM3 simulates the behavior of effluent discharged from a multi-port diffuser. For this compliance assessment, the outputs include plume dilution, rise, and diameter in the initial dilution regions. The current model version, however, does not account for the spread (and dilution mixing) of a radial jet, such as occurs for discharges from the Ormond Beach outfall. Currents affect the path of a plume during its rise through the water column. Currents and the level of turbulence also affect the exposure of the plume to ambient seawater, enhancing entrainment (dilution). The plume dilution assessment uses a worst-case scenario for dilution (zero current velocity), as required by the Ocean Plan. In compliance with the Ocean Plan, the initial dilution (ratio) is computed as the lowest average initial dilution within any single month of the year, based on observed receiving water density stratification. The initial plume dilution achieved can be very sensitive to the degree of density stratification, with stronger stratification leading to lower initial dilution. Thus, the plume dilution modeling used a vertical density stratification condition consistent with the extreme summer density profile.
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The Pacific Ocean receiving waters are characterized in terms of depth, stratification, and constituent concentrations for the plume dilution assessment. Consistent with the ambient monitoring programs described in NPDES discharge permits, receiving water characteristics were taken from current water quality sampling sites situated in the offshore direction from the outfall. These sites are named RW7 for the Ormond Beach outfall (about 1,500 offshore from the end of the outfall pipe) and Central Coast Regional Monitoring Station 4403 (about one mile offshore of the end of the outfall pipe) for the Oxnard outfall. The issue of effective dilution (mixing of a constituent into water with a non-zero ambient concentration) is addressed in compliance with the Ocean Plan. Ambient seawater concentrations for arsenic, copper, mercury, silver and zinc stipulated by the California Ocean plan were used in the analysis. For all other regulated constituents, the background concentration is assumed to be zero. The ocean outfall of the proposed pipeline system would receive four types of water: • Tertiary-treated wastewater from the MWTP and Camrosa WRF; • RO effluent (brine) from Simi Valley and Camarillo; • RO brine from groundwater wells in Simi Valley, Ventura County, and Santa Rosa; and • Effluent from existing outfall users at Ormond Beach (or Oxnard). Flow rates for each contributing facility to the proposed pipeline system are based on current discharge capacity with a 50 percent capacity increase allowance to account for future expansion or inclusion of industrial or agricultural users. It is assumed that there is no seasonal variation in discharge rate to the proposed pipeline system. Water quality data for Simi Valley WQCP, MWTP and Camarillo WRP were collected as part of the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study, during the period of July 1998 – June 1999. Samples were collected and analyzed monthly for general water quality constituents, quarterly for organics and metals, bimonthly for water toxicity, and semi-annually for sediment toxicity and chemistry. The sampling program description and original data reporting can be found in a report by Larry Walker Associates, Inc. (LWA 2000). Data for the Camrosa WRF is relatively sparse, as they currently reclaim all of their wastewater, and originated from annual monitoring reports for stream discharge periods in years 1992-1995. Simi Valley and Camarillo would discharge concentrated RO wastewater (the portion that does not pass through the filter), while MWTP and Camrosa WRF would discharge tertiary-treated effluent (with no RO treatment) to the proposed pipeline system. Well water in upper portions of the Calleguas Creek watershed would be processed through RO filters. This treatment would occur for well water from Simi Valley, South Las Posas Basin and Santa Rosa Basin (see Section 3.3.2). The anticipated water quality characteristics of each well area are characterized by the available data from monitoring wells, collected during the period of June 1998 – June 1999, complementing the wastewater discharge monitoring. General minerals, general physical parameters, nutrients, and bacteriological parameters were analyzed quarterly, metals and cyanide were monitored twice, and trace organics and radioactivity were analyzed once. The sampling program description and original data reporting can be found in a report by Bookman-Edmonston Engineering/Navigant Consulting, Inc. (2000).
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Assumptions must be made concerning the calculation of average pollutant concentrations when non-detect values are used. Non-detect values are common in water quality data sets for many pollutants or constituents at the wastewater treatment plants and groundwater wells that would contribute flow to the proposed pipeline system. The non-detected values are treated as follows: • If greater than 50 percent of the data are detected values, the median is used. • If the median is between two non-detect values, the lower detection limit is used. • Individual pollutants of a group of compounds (e.g., PCBs) are considered to have a concentration of zero if the group is reported as non-detect. If there are any detected values, the sum of those values is used. Median pollutant concentrations at the pipeline outfall were calculated based on effluent concentrations and flow rate from contributing sources computed or assumed, and RO removal efficiencies. Effluent concentrations from the proposed pipeline contributors are not available for cyanide and antimony. However, cyanide and antimony data is available for the Hill Canyon Treatment Plant, another local wastewater treatment facility. Due to lack of any other data, it was assumed that effluent from treatment plants contributing to the proposed pipeline system have similar concentrations of these metals. Samples collected from the effluents may indicate concentrations that are substantially different than these values. Because of the relatively high detection limits for many constituents in the Camrosa WRF effluent, median values from the Camarillo WRP are used for the Camrosa WRF rather than the detection limits, if the detection limits are over five times greater than the Camarillo WRP median values. These two facilities are in close proximity and have a similar quality water source. Ocean Impact Assessment. As required by the Ocean Plan, constituent concentrations at the edge of the initial mixing zone predicted by plume modeling are compared to chronic water quality objectives in the Ocean Plan. The plume model was run under various flow scenarios to include all operating conditions that could occur. The flow scenarios considered with respect to each outfall are: • Scenario 1: Ormond Beach power plant effluent only (baseline) at current conditions; • Scenario 2: Ormond Beach power plant effluent at current conditions and proposed pipeline system design flows; • Scenario 3: Ormond Beach power plant effluent at current conditions and proposed pipeline system design flows without contribution from the Camrosa or Moorpark treatment plants; • Scenario 4: Proposed pipeline system design flows, without Ormond Beach power plant effluent; and • Scenario 5: Proposed pipeline system design flows, without contribution from Camrosa and Moorpark treatment plants, or Ormond Beach power plant effluent.
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Constituent concentrations and flows from all wastewater sources of the pipeline are considered constant for all scenarios. Concentrations of all constituents from future industrial and agricultural inflows are assumed not to change the character of the effluent stream. Concentrations of constituents in effluent from each identified source are assumed to be represented by the available data. Any currently unidentified wastewater sources of the pipeline would have to assure compliance with the applicable water quality objectives in the Ocean Plan or other applicable regulations. The proposed project would share the Ormond Beach ocean outfall with the Reliant Energy power plant. The discharge rate from the power plant could be simulated at current conditions or at their permitted capacity. Because any increase in current discharges would serve to dilute the wastewater contribution of the proposed project, only current flows from the current dischargers are simulated, as a worst-case scenario. In practice, dilution with flow- through water by existing outfall users is not allowed as “credit” for assessing compliance. Results from the plume model and other models are used to compute dilution factors for the Ormond Beach outfall (Table 5.4-3), based on the five scenarios discussed above. The discharge plume from this shallow, vertically-oriented outfall reaches the water surface in all flow scenarios.
Table 5.4-3. Dilution Factors of the Modeled Plume at Ormond Beach
Flow Rate Salinity Temperature Dilution Flow Scenario o (cfs) (ppt) ( C) Factor 1. Cooling water alone 704 33.5 38.9 6.5(1) 2. Cooling water plus brine 733 32.3 38.2 6.5(1)
3. Cooling water plus brine, without (1) 719 32.9 38.5 6.5 Camrosa or Moorpark 4. Brine alone 29.6 3.9 21.8 5.33 5. Brine alone, without Camrosa or 15.6 6.8 21.6 6.82 Moorpark (1) Assumed from permit conditions.
Table 5.4-4 summarizes modeled exceedances of the Ocean Plan effluent limitations. Ammonia and copper concentrations at the Ormond Beach ocean outfall would exceed Ocean Plan water quality objectives, when the power plant was not pumping cooling water through the outfall (Scenarios 4 and 5). This water quality impact is considered significant (Impact WR-2). Lindane concentrations at the Ormond Beach ocean outfall would exceed Ocean Plan water quality objectives, when the power plant was pumping cooling water through the outfall (Scenarios 1, 2 and 3). However, estimates of effluent concentration are based on high detection limit analytical methods. High detection limits for lindane in the Ormond Beach power plant effluent cause high estimates for blended concentrations. However, lindane concentrations from the proposed pipeline system are lower than the Ormond Beach power plant effluent (purely based on a lower detection limit). Therefore, the proposed project would not increase lindane concentrations in the ocean environment.
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Mercury concentrations at the Ormond Beach ocean outfall would exceed Ocean Plan water quality objectives, when the power plant was not pumping cooling water through the outfall (Scenarios 4 and 5). However, estimates of effluent concentration are based on high detection limit analytical methods. This potential water quality impact is considered significant (Impact WR-3). Aldrin, chlordane, DDT, dieldrin, endrin, PCBs and toxaphene would exceed the Ocean Plan water quality objectives at the Ormond Beach ocean outfall under all 5 scenarios. However, project scenarios (2 through 5) would be less than existing conditions (Scenario 1), and none of these compounds were detected at any of the wastewater contributors to the proposed project.
Table 5.4-4. Summary of Modeled Exceedances of Ocean Plan Water Quality Objectives (WQO) at the Ormond Beach Outfall (exceedances in bold)
Reliant + brine, Brine alone, no Pollutant Existing Reliant Cooling Basis of no Camrosa or Brine alone Camrosa or (concentration Conditions Water + brine Limitation Moorpark (WQO/modeled) Moorpark units) (WQO/modeled) (WQO/modeled) (WQO/modeled) (WQO/modeled)
Scenario no. 1 2 3 4 5
Ammonia Marine 4.5/0.05 4.5/1.48 4.5/1.24 3.8/35.6 4.7/54.7 (mg/L) aquatic life
Marine Copper (µg/l) 9.5/5.00 9.50/5.20 9.50/5.21 8.33/10.0 9.82/14.8 aquatic life
Marine Lindane (µg/l) 0.030/0.10 0.030/0.096 0.030/0.098 0.025/0.011 0.031/0.019 aquatic life
Marine Mercury (µg/l) 0.297/0.100 0.297/0.107 0.297/0.109 0.251/0.281 0.309/0.521 aquatic life
Marine Endrin (µg/l) 0.015/0.100 0.015/0.096 0.015/0.098 0.013/0.019 0.016/0.031 aquatic life
Human Aldrin (µg/l) 0.0002/0.100 0.0002/0.096 0.0002/0.098 0.0001/0.0009 0.0002/0.016 Health
Human Chlordane (µg/l) 0.0002/1.000 0.0002/0.960 0.0002/0.979 0.0001/0.015 0.0002/0.028 Health
Human DDT (µg/l) 0.0013/0.100 0.0013/0.096 0.0013/0.098 0.0011/0.008 0.0013/0.014 Health
Human Dieldrin (µg/l) 0.0003/0.100 0.0003/0.096 0.0003/0.098 0.0003/0.009 0.0003/0.016 Health
Human PCBs (µg/l) 0.0003/1.000 0.0003/0.966 0.0003/0.985 0.0003/0.166 0.0003/0.306 Health
Toxaphene Human 0.0016/1.000 0.0016/0.966 0.0016/0.984 0.0013/0.160 0.0013/0.277 (µg/l) Health
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Surface Water Quality. Assumptions and Methodology. The proposed project would provide disposal for brine, facilitating the RO treatment of groundwater and wastewater treatment plant effluent that is currently discharged to surface waters. This analysis is based on the more conservative scenario (50 percent scenario, see Table 3-1), since it would result in the least amount of removal of contaminants in wastewater prior to stream discharge. Following RO treatment, groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells would no longer be discharged to Arroyo Simi, and 10 percent of Simi Valley WQCP and Camarillo WRP effluent normally discharged to surface waters would be converted to brine and directed to the proposed pipeline system. However, the quality of water discharged to surface waters would be improved by RO treatment. The following analysis is limited to general water quality constituents and metals. Changes in surface water concentrations of organics was not assessed due to the lack of data and the inability of current analytical techniques to provide analysis results below the water quality objectives. Data for all water quality constituents (including organics) regulated under the Water Quality Control Plan would be gathered for each pipeline user that discharges to surface waters as part of future environmental assessment. Additionally, many organics are pesticides that are discharged to the creek at different points at different times as a result of application practices that differ throughout the watershed. These sporadic events are difficult to model and the limited data do not provide enough information to allow characterization of pesticide concentrations. Finally, information about the ability of RO to remove many organics cannot be determined because of the large amount of non-detect data. For these reasons, organic constituents were not considered in this analysis. However, it is expected that RO treatment of effluent prior to discharge to surface waters would reduce concentrations of organics in the watershed. To assess the water quality impacts of reduced volume and increased water quality of wastewater discharged into the Calleguas Creek system, a spreadsheet model of the watershed was used. This model was developed for the Calleguas Creek Nutrient TMDLs by Larry Walker Associates (2000) and was modified to address representative constituents. The Calleguas Creek system is effluent-dominated and very complex. Modeling of the system is complicated by the fact that surface flows in the Arroyo Las Posas are not present during much of the year, agricultural inputs and extractions are numerous and difficult to quantify, and historical flow data are unavailable for several reaches. Because of these complexities, the adaptation of existing models, such as QUAL-2E, to the watershed would be problematic. Instead, a spreadsheet model was used to assist in the understanding of the watershed processes. The spreadsheet model divides the creek system into several "compartments", each with a number of inputs and outputs. Steady state is assumed for each compartment, so that the flow and pollutant mass inputs into the compartment are assumed to equal the flow and pollutant mass outputs from the compartment. The compartments of the model were chosen to match sampling locations in the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study (CCCS). In this way, estimated concentrations from the model can be compared to measured receiving water concentrations.
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For modeling purposes, all of the constituents (except nitrogen compounds), were assumed to be conservative in the water column (i.e. they do not change form as they move through the system). Although some of the constituents may adsorb to sediment in the creek bottom, the model assumes that the entire mass of a constituent discharged to the waterbody stays in the water column and follows the water transported through the system (i.e. could go into the groundwater or be taken out for agriculture, but isn't transferred to sediments). Additional sources of the constituents, such as atmospheric deposition and sediment contributions were not considered in the analysis except for ammonia and nitrate-nitrite. Flow characterization of the watershed forms the basis of the spreadsheet model. A variety of flow measurements have been collected in the watershed, but only a few have been collected using reliable methods over a long enough period of time for analysis. Flows in Conejo Creek are considered accurately quantified by the VCFCD flow gauges on Conejo Creek and lower Calleguas Creek, and by the City of Thousand Oaks annual Data Collection Program conducted by Fugro West, Inc. In addition, flow data using meters, rather than visual estimates, are available from the CCCS for portions of the Conejo Creek. To assess the impacts of flow reduction and water quality improvements on the receiving stream water, a baseline flow regime was established for the watershed. The critical conditions for many of the constituents of concern being removed by the treatment facilities are during dry weather when flows are lower and concentrations in discharges are not diluted by storm water flows. For this reason, only dry-weather conditions were considered in this analysis. Existing flows and current discharge flows to the waterbodies were used in the analysis, with the exception that the Conejo Creek Diversion project was assumed to be in operation and the maximum allowable dry-weather flows (10 cfs) diverted from the Creek. Although the diversion project is not currently in operation, it should be in operation by the time the proposed project is implemented. The use of existing flows to assess the impacts of the proposed project is a conservative approach, because additional treatment plant discharge flows resulting from population growth in the watershed would likely improve the situation by diluting higher concentrations originating from non-point sources. The flows used in this analysis represent monthly dry-weather average flows determined based on available flow information. Available flow information only characterizes five out of the nine reaches impacted by the proposed project. The model was developed to fit the available flow information to the extent possible and fill in the gaps on the reaches for which no flow data are available. To estimate the flows in the stream model, the sources of the flow in the creek were determined. Treatment plant discharges to surface waters have been consistently recorded under NPDES permits and are well characterized. Median daily flows from each plant were calculated based on available NPDES data and the CCCS data. Flow and water quality information for groundwater, open space, agricultural, and urban flow inputs and extractions were not available and were calculated based on estimates of irrigation rates, run-off coefficients, surface area of various land use types and evapotranspiration rates as discussed in LWA (2001).
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Average concentrations were used in the model for both non-point and point source constituents. Test results of water samples are reported as “non-detect” or below detection limits for pollutants that are not identified in the water sample. The pollutant may not be present, or may be present at concentrations below the detection limits of the analytical equipment used. Assumptions must be made concerning the calculation of average concentrations when non-detect values are used. For constituents with data sets comprised of 25 percent and 99 percent of the values above detection limits, and at least two values above detection limits, a statistical regression analysis was used to calculate the average concentration. When less than 25 percent of the data set was comprised of values above detection limits and/or there were less than two values above detection limits, half of the detection limit was used for the non-detect values to calculate the average concentrations. The concentrations for effluent discharges and groundwater are the same values as used for the proposed pipeline system characterization. For the purposes of assessing the changes in water quality in the receiving waters, only these general water quality constituents and metals that were detected during the CCCS in the receiving water at levels exceeding water quality objectives and (or) those that were listed on the 303(d) impaired waters list were analyzed. Surface water impacts of the proposed project include a reduction in quantity, but an improvement in quality of effluent discharges from treatment plants and groundwater wells. These impacts were modeled by reducing the flow and constituent concentrations to match values expected after project implementation. For the purposes of assessing impacts of the proposed project, the following assumptions were made: • Existing dry season surface flow rates and water quality were used for modeling, to represent reasonable worst-case conditions. • To be conservative, existing treatment plant effluent flows were used to assess surface water quality and water quantity impacts, because increases in discharge rates of treated effluent to surface waters resulting from population growth in the watershed would reduce the relative magnitude of these impacts by diluting higher concentrations originating from non-point sources and providing additional surface flow. • 50 percent of the effluent flow from the Simi Valley WQCP and the Camarillo WRP would be treated with RO (or equivalent technology), with the remaining 50 percent blended with treated water and discharged to surface waters. The flow of RO-treated water discharged to surface waters would be 90 percent of the total effluent flow, with 10 percent discharged to the proposed pipeline system as brine. • Groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells, the County’s South Las Posas Basin wells and Camrosa Water District’s Santa Rosa Basin wells would be treated, but all of the water would be reclaimed and not discharged to the creek system.
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• Moorpark, Camrosa, and Olsen Road treatment plants are not discharging to the creek system. Olsen Road should be closed by the time the proposed project is operational. Moorpark and Camrosa would only discharge under rare occasions, primarily during wet weather. For this reason, the discharges from these plants would not impact the critical dry-weather conditions examined here. • The Conejo Creek Diversion Project diverts 10 cfs from the Creek constantly from the compartment upstream of the Camarillo WRP. • Non-point source contributions remain the same as before implementation of the proposed project. Surface Water Quality Assessment. Tables 5.4-5 and 5.4-6 summarize the average receiving water quality measured during the CCCS, the existing (no project) water quality estimated in the model, the estimated water quality after project implementation, and the lowest applicable criteria for the reach (water quality objectives of the Water Quality Control Plan or standards of the California Toxics Rule-40 CFR 131). Although the model was designed to match the receiving water quality observed in the CCCS as closely as possible, the number of assumptions needed to characterize non-point sources and flows in the watershed and the complex nature of the stream system result in differences between the observed water quality and the modeled water quality. Despite the differences between the model and observed water quality, the model was determined to be the best available mechanism for estimating surface water quality changes associated with the proposed project. The following summarizes project-related changes in surface water quality indicated by the modeling: • Chloride concentrations would be increased from 164 to 182 mg/L (the water quality objective is 150) between the Simi Valley dewatering wells and the Simi Valley WQCP due to the termination of groundwater discharge to Arroyo Simi. Chloride concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed, except in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP (increase from 145 to 149 mg/L). • TDS concentrations would be increased from 1,895 to 2051 mg/L (the water quality objective is 850) between the Simi Valley dewatering wells and the Simi Valley WQCP due to the termination of groundwater discharge to Arroyo Simi. TDS concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed, except in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP (increase from 976 to 984 mg/L). • Sulfate concentrations would be the same or reduced in all affected portions of the watershed. • Boron concentrations would be increased slightly from 0.44 to 0.46 mg/L (the water quality objective is 1.0) in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP. Boron concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed.
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• Ammonia concentrations would be increased slightly from 9.95 to 10.84 mg/L (the water quality objective is 3.3) in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP. Ammonia concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed. • Nitrate concentrations would be increased slightly from 15.4 to 15.5 mg/L (the water quality objective is 10) at Mugu Lagoon. Nitrate concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed. • Arsenic concentrations would be increased from 3.71 to 4.66 mg/L (the water quality objective is 150) between the Simi Valley dewatering wells and the Simi Valley WQCP due to the termination of groundwater discharge to Arroyo Simi. Arsenic concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed, except in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP (increase from 3.18 to 3.24 mg/L). • Cadmium concentrations would be increased from 0.30 to 0.33 mg/L (the water quality objective is 6.22) between the Simi Valley dewatering wells and the Simi Valley WQCP due to the termination of groundwater discharge to Arroyo Simi. Cadmium concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed, except in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP (increase from 0.32 to 0.33 mg/L). • Chromium concentrations would be increased slightly from 1.88 to 1.89 mg/L (the water quality objective is 11.0) in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP. Chromium concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed. • Copper concentrations would be increased slightly (less than 0.06 mg/L increase) in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP, in Calleguas Creek at SR 1 and Mugu Lagoon. Copper concentrations exceed California Toxics Rule water quality objectives at State Route (SR) 1 and Mugu Lagoon in the absence of the project, due to lower water quality objectives for saltwater- influenced environments. • Lead concentrations would be increased from 0.92 to 1.33 mg/L (the water quality objective is 10.9) between the Simi Valley dewatering wells and the Simi Valley WQCP due to the termination of groundwater discharge to Arroyo Simi. Lead concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed, except in Arroyo Las Posas at Hitch Boulevard (increase from 0.68 to 0.69 mg/L). • Mercury concentrations would be increased by less than 0.001 mg/L (water quality objective is 0.05) in Arroyo Simi upstream of the Simi Valley WQCP, Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WQCP, Calleguas Creek at SR 1 and Mugu Lagoon. However, all modeled mercury concentrations are substantially below the California Toxics Rule water quality objective.
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• Nickel concentrations would be increased slightly from 6.91 to 7.00 mg/L (the water quality objective is 162) in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP. Nickel concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed. • Selenium concentrations would be increased from 1.32 to 1.84 mg/L (the water quality objective is 5.0) between the Simi Valley dewatering wells and the Simi Valley WQCP due to the termination of groundwater discharge to Arroyo Simi. Selenium concentrations would be the same or reduced in all other affected portions of the watershed, except in Arroyo Las Posas at Hitch Boulevard and Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP (increase of 0.02 mg/L). • Zinc concentrations would be increased by less than 2 mg/L (water quality objective varies from 81 to 382 depending on hardness) in Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WQCP, Calleguas Creek at SR 1 and Mugu Lagoon. However, all modeled zinc concentrations are substantially below the California Toxics Rule water quality objective. In general, the proposed project would reduce concentrations of problem constituents (TDS, chloride and sulfate), and reduce chloride levels below the current water quality objective. However, termination of discharge of groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells would result in an increase in chloride, TDS, arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury and selenium in Arroyo Simi, between the current well discharge location and the Simi Valley WQCP discharge location. Most of the project-related increases in pollutant levels would be very small. However, the increase in chloride and TDS concentrations would be 11 percent and 8 percent over pre-project levels, respectively, exacerbating existing exceedances of water quality objectives. This impact to surface water quality is considered less than significant due to the relatively small increase in chloride and TDS levels, small reach affected (about one mile), and lack of compliance with water quality objectives under existing conditions. In addition, the proposed project would reduce sulfate, boron, nitrate, chromium, copper, nickel, and zinc concentrations within this reach of Arroyo Simi. Project-related increases in pollutant levels would occur at other locations. In general, increases would be small and concentrations would be far below water quality objectives. However, existing exceedances of the ammonia water quality objective would be exacerbated by 0.89 mg/L in the reach of Conejo Creek upstream of the Camarillo WRP. In addition, existing exceedances of the nitrate water quality objective would be exacerbated by 0.1 mg/L at Mugu Lagoon. This impact to surface water quality is considered less than significant due to the very small project-related increase in ammonia and nitrate levels, and small areas affected.
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Table 5.4-5. Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for General Water Quality Constituents (click to view)
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Table 5.4-5. Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for General Water Quality Constituents (click to view)
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Table 5.4-6. Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for Metals (click to view)
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Table 5.4-6. Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for Metals (click to view)
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Table 5.4-6. Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for Metals (click to view)
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Surface Water Quantity. As discussed on page 5.4-21, the composition of water discharged to the proposed pipeline system is not entirely foreseeable. Therefore, the surface water quantity analysis includes both 50 percent and 100 percent scenarios. These scenarios represent the treatment of either 50 percent or 100 percent of the effluent at the Simi Valley and Camarillo treatment plants (see Table 3-1). Stream flow would be reduced because about 10 to 20 percent of effluent (50 vs. 100 percent scenarios) from the Simi Valley WQCP and Camarillo WRP currently discharged to streams would be lost as brine to the proposed pipeline, and groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells would be reclaimed and not discharged to Arroyo Simi. The analysis is based on dry season flow conditions, existing treatment plant effluent production rates and full implementation of the Conejo Creek Diversion Project (under construction) (10 cfs loss of stream flow). The use of existing effluent production rates to assess the impacts of the proposed project is conservative, because increased treatment plant effluent discharge to surface waters resulting from population growth in the watershed would partially or fully offset stream flow reductions associated with the proposed project. Future wastewater reclamation projects may result in a decrease in the proportion of effluent discharged to surface waters; however, this would occur regardless of the implementation of the proposed project. Table 5.4-7 indicates stream flow in Arroyo Simi would be reduced by 38 percent (6.1 to 3.8 cfs) upstream of the Simi Valley WQCP, and reduced by 23 to 31 percent downstream of the Simi Valley WQCP. Stream flow in Arroyo Las Posas would be reduced by 37 to 51 percent upstream of the MWTP (Hitch Blvd). Stream flow in Conejo Creek would be reduced by 9 to 18 percent downstream of the Camarillo WRP. Stream flow in Calleguas Creek would be reduced by 3 to 7 percent at SR 1. The reduction in stream flow is expected to impair beneficial uses such as recreation, wildlife habitat and wetlands (see Section 5.5) and is considered a significant impact to water resources (Impact WR-4). Groundwater Quality. As discussed in Section 5.4.1.4, aquifers recharged by Calleguas Creek and tributaries have been degraded as evidenced by high TDS, chloride, ammonia, arsenic, boron, nitrate, nickel and sulfate levels. Tables 5.4-5 and 5.4-6 indicate that instream concentrations of these constituents would be reduced by removal from wastewater through the RO process, prior to discharge to surface waters. Reducing instream concentrations would reduce the amount of these constituents reaching the aquifers through infiltration, minimizing further degradation of groundwater quality. Impacts to groundwater are considered beneficial.
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Table 5.4-7. Modeled Surface Flows in the Calleguas Creek Watershed
Dry- Modeled Modeled weather Modeled CCCS Monitoring 50% Post- 100% Post- Reach Average Existing Location Project Project Monthly Flows (cfs) Flows (cfs) Flows (cfs) Flow (cfs) Arroyo Simi, upstream of Simi 1 - Madera Road 4.4 6.1 3.8 3.8 Valley WQCP Arroyo Simi, downstream of 3 - SR 118 n/a 16.4 12.7 11.3 Simi Valley WQCP Arroyo Las Posas at Hitch 4 - Hitch Blvd. n/a 10.1 6.4 5.0 Blvd. Arroyo Conejo, South Fork 9 – South Fork, 0.4 miles 4.0 4.1 4.1 4.1 upstream of HCTP upstream of North Fork Arroyo Conejo, downstream 10 – Arroyo Conejo, 0.2 miles 19.0 19.6 19.6 19.6 of HCTP downstream of Hill Canyon Conejo Creek, upstream of 11 – Adolfo Road 4.9 2.3 2.3 2.3 CSD Conejo Creek, downstream of 12 – Howard Road bridge 3.6 3.3 3.0 2.7 CSD Calleguas Creek, Camrosa 7 – SR 1 n/a 9.8 9.5 9.1 WRF to Highway 1 15 – mouth of Calleguas Mugu Lagoon n/a n/a n/a n/a Creek
Groundwater Quantity. The County’s South Las Posas Basin wells currently produce about 2,000 acre-feet per year of groundwater with TDS concentrations that exceed the secondary State drinking water standard of 500 mg/L. TDS concentrations are projected to increase over time as the salt load of the basin accumulates (Bookman-Edmonston Engineering 1997). The proposed project would facilitate the development of new wells and RO treatment to increase the amount of groundwater available for potable uses. Bookman-Edmonston Engineering (1997) estimated that groundwater production could be increased to 6,800 acre- feet per year by installing 10 extraction wells and RO treatment. The proposed project would also facilitate treatment of groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells, providing a new source of 3.5 mgd of potable water. The proposed project would also facilitate treatment of groundwater from Camrosa’s Santa Rosa Basin wells, which would increase the flexibility of the use of this water, allowing its use for potable uses and salinity-sensitive crops.
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The proposed project would make poor quality groundwater available that is not currently suitable for beneficial uses. However, wastewater from the Camrosa WRF and the Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant is currently used to irrigate row crops, and some portion of this water infiltrates to the overdrafted Pleasant Valley groundwater basin. Diversion of this wastewater to the proposed pipeline system would result in a loss to the ocean, and reduced recharge of the Pleasant Valley groundwater basin. However, it is expected that crop irrigation would continue to be the primary use of wastewater from the Camrosa WRF and the Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant. Therefore, diversion to the proposed pipeline system would likely only occur when the supply of wastewater exceeds the storage capacity for reclaimed water. Overall, the combined effect of making poor quality groundwater available and reducing aquifer recharge is considered a less than significant impact to groundwater quantity. Cumulative. The Ventura Council of Governments projects that Ventura County will grow in population by 8 percent from 2001 to 2010, and by 18 percent by 2020. These population projections form the basis of the Ventura County General Plan. Most of this population growth is expected to occur within the Calleguas Creek watershed and adjacent areas served by local wastewater treatment plants (Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo, Camrosa). This population growth would result in an increase in the amount of wastewater treated and discharged to the proposed pipeline as brine and discharged to Arroyo Simi and Arroyo Las Posas as RO-treated wastewater. However, the analysis of marine water quality impacts presented in this Section is based on maximum treatment plant capacity and not current flows. Therefore, project-specific impacts address reasonably foreseeable population growth in the watershed, and can be considered cumulative impacts. Assessment of potential marine impacts associated with further population growth would be highly speculative, and is not assessed at this time. Surface water impacts were assessed based on current wastewater generation rates. Future increases in population and wastewater generation may reduce surface water quantity impacts by providing more RO-treated wastewater for discharge to surface waters. These impacts are a result of regional population growth and may be considered cumulative impacts. However, even if future increases in wastewater discharge to surface waters fully offset surface water quantity impacts of the project, a significant impact would have occurred in the interim. Therefore, cumulative surface water quantity impacts are considered significant (Impact WR-5) Beneficial impacts to surface water quality and groundwater quality would increase in magnitude as population growth occurs, by reducing the mass of pollutants discharged to surface waters and infiltrated to aquifers. Surface water quality impacts associated with small localized increases in contaminant concentrations would also be reduced, as increased discharge of treated effluent would dilute these contaminants. 5.4.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Impacts to ocean water quality, surface water quality, surface water quantity and groundwater quality would be the same as discussed for the Proposed Action. However, alternative pipeline alignments associated with the alternative ocean outfall would have different impacts to the ocean environment and are discussed in Section 5.4.2.4.
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5.4.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall Existing Conditions. The City of Oxnard’s wastewater treatment plant receives water from the Cities of Oxnard and Port Hueneme and the Naval Construction Battalion at Port Hueneme. The facility’s wastewater discharge is permitted under NPDES No. CA0054097. The Plant’s design flow capacity is 31.7 mgd (49.0 cfs), but monthly average effluent flow for 1999- 2000 averaged 20.7 mgd, with a maximum of 22.7 mgd. The capacity of Oxnard’s ocean outfall is approximately 50 mgd (City of Oxnard 1990b). The outfall pipe extends 5,950 feet offshore from the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. The final (downstream) section of the outfall pipe is made of 48-in diameter reinforced concrete, perforated for the last 1,026 feet. The water depth in this region is approximately 50 feet. The outfall is configured with 85 ports spaced 12 feet apart over the 1,026-foot pipe length on two sides (thus 170 ports total). Each port is approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, oriented horizontally from either side of the pipe. The end of the pipe is open, but appears to have a recessed flange covering approximately the bottom third of the pipe. The dilution credit given for this outfall is 98:1. However, initial plume simulations indicate significantly different results simulating flows at Oxnard’s permitted capacity. Although the outfall is currently the City’s sole method of wastewater disposal, the City anticipates reclaiming part of the treated wastewater, potentially decreasing flows to the outfall. The three-phase reclamation project could eventually divert up to 23 mgd of recycled water to agriculture, landscape, and groundwater recharge uses. The first phase would begin with 7.7 mgd of recycled water. Oxnard Plume Dilution. The original report describing the calculation of initial dilution is not available (Tsai, 2001). To establish a baseline condition consistent with the current permitted dilution, the pipe-opening diameter was adjusted to obtain a dilution of approximately 98:1 at design capacity. The calculated opening diameter using this methodology is 3.2 inches. This port diameter is assumed for all subsequent flow scenarios to estimate dilution factors (5.4-8). The dilution factor for existing conditions (Scenario 1), is different than the permitted dilution factor (98) because this value is based on design capacity, whereas the value presented in Table 5.4-8 is based on current operating conditions and the calibrated port diameter.
Table 5.4-8. Dilution Factors of the Modeled Plume at the Oxnard Outfall
Flow Rate Salinity Temperature Dilution Flow Scenario o (1) (cfs) (ppt) ( C) Factor 1. Oxnard effluent alone 32.0 0.76 22.7 111 2. Oxnard effluent plus brine 61.6 2.29 22.3 89.9 3. Oxnard effluent plus brine, without Camrosa or 47.7 2.73 22.3 94.4 Moorpark 4. Brine alone 29.6 3.94 21.8 109 5. Brine alone, without Camrosa 15.6 6.78 21.6 127 or Moorpark (1) This is dilution for the plume emanating from end of pipe. Dilution for the plumes exiting the lateral ports is higher.
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Not all of the plume in the lowest flow scenario (5) rises to the water surface. Dilution, in this case, is taken at the edge of the initial mixing zone, where the plume stalls. This level is referred to as the trap level, and roughly corresponds to the bottom of the thermocline. The dilution obtained by the plume at its trap level is provided in Table 5.4-8 and used in the assessment of compliance with the Ocean Plan. Ocean Water Quality Impacts. As required by the Ocean Plan, discharge plume concentrations at the edge of the initial mixing zone are compared to chronic water quality objectives in Table 5.4-9. Because of the high dilution ratio provided by this outfall, no known constituents are found to exceed water quality objectives. Table 5.4-9 indicates that aldrin, chlordane, DDT, dieldrin, endrin, PCBs and toxaphene would exceed the Ocean Plan water quality objectives under at least one of the four project scenarios (nos. 2 through 5). However, exceedances of the DDT water quality objective would only occur under Scenarios 4 and 5 (brine alone), which are not realistic operating conditions. The City of Oxnard has no plans to discontinue discharge of wastewater at this outfall. Aldrin, chlordane, dieldrin, endrin, PCBs and toxaphene pose potential compliance issues at the Oxnard outfall, based on the conservative scheme for approximating non-detect data (see discussion on page 5.4-22). None of these compounds were detected at any of the facilities that would contribute wastewater to the proposed pipeline. The detection limits used for the effluent characterization of organic compounds from these facilities are lower than the minimum levels given in the 2001 Ocean Plan. As per Section III.C.4 of the Ocean Plan, minimum levels of regulated constituents are used in NPDES permits for reporting and compliance purposes. Therefore, compliance with minimum levels designated in Section II of the Ocean Plan, is considered compliance with the water quality objectives. Ocean water quality impacts associated with aldrin, chlordane, dieldrin, endrin, PCBs and toxaphene contained within project-related wastewater are considered less than significant.
Table 5.4-9. Summary of Modeled Exceedances of Ocean Plan Water Quality Objectives (WQO) at the Oxnard Outfall (exceedances in bold)
Oxnard + brine, Brine alone, no Pollutant Existing Oxnard Effluent Basis of no Camrosa or Brine alone Camrosa or (concentration Conditions + Brine Limitation Moorpark (WQO/modeled) Moorpark units) (WQO/modeled) (WQO/modeled) (WQO/modeled) (WQO/modeled)
Scenario no. 1 2 3 4 5
Human Aldrin (µg/l) 0.0025/0.001 0.0020/0.005 0.0021/0.006 0.0024/0.009 0.0028/0.016 Health
Human Chlordane (µg/l) 0.0026/0.002 0.0021/0.008 0.0022/0.010 0.0025/0.015 0.0029/0.028 Health
Human DDT (µg/l) 0.019/0.001 0.0155/0.004 0.0162/0.005 0.0187/0.008 0.0217/0.014 Health
Human Dieldrin (µg/l) 0.0045/0.001 0.0036/0.005 0.0038/0.006 0.0044/0.009 0.0051/0.016 Health
Human PCBs (µg/l) 0.0045/0.010 0.0036/0.085 0.0038/0.107 0.0044/0.167 0.0051/0.306 Health
Toxaphene Human 0.0235/0.010 0.0191/0.082 0.0200/0.097 0.0231/0.161 0.0268/0.277 (µg/l) Health
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5.4.3 Mitigation Measures 5.4.3.1 Proposed Action Construction Impacts (WR-1). The development of mitigation for water quality impacts is based on best management practices (BMP) for construction activities (Camp Dresser & McKee et al., 1993) to ensure compliance with the Statewide Stormwater Construction General Permit. MM WR-1. The following measures shall be included in the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan and implemented by the construction contractor in coordination with CMWD to minimize disturbance of sediments and erosion, and reduce the potential for hydrocarbon discharge from construction equipment. • De-watering shall be conducted for excavation below the water table and include discharge to a sediment basin (or equivalent) prior to entering storm drains, creeks or other surface water (BMP’s CA1, ESC56); • Soil borings shall be conducted and soils shall be tested prior to construction within the bed or banks of local creeks in order to identify potential metal and/or pesticide contamination. If contaminants found in these soils (if any) exceed levels considered hazardous as defined in the California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Section 22621 et. seq., they shall be stored on an impermeable surface (or equivalent measures) to prevent contamination of surrounding areas and removed to an appropriate disposal site (BMP CA22); • Heavy equipment shall be fueled in a designated area away from creeks, storm drains and culverts should be used. This designated area shall include a drain pan or drop cloth and absorbent materials to clean up spills (BMP CA31); • Vehicles and equipment shall be maintained properly to prevent leakage. If maintenance must occur onsite, a designated area away from creeks, storm drains and culverts shall be used. This designated area shall include a drain pan or drop cloth and adsorbent materials to clean up spills (BMP CA32); • Construction activities within or immediately adjacent to intermittent streams shall occur following the seasonal termination of surface flow to avoid surface water (BMP ESC1 in part); • Construction activities within or immediately adjacent to perennial streams shall include diversion of surface flow around all work areas to prevent working in flowing water. This may require alternately diverting flows to one side of the creek bed, to allow work on the opposite side of the creek bed and bank to proceed. Non-erosive materials such as sand bags shall be used to construct the diversion berm (BMP ESC52); • Vegetation adjacent to construction activities shall be preserved to minimize erosion (BMP ESC2); • A temporary stream crossing with culvert shall be constructed if repeated crossing of flowing water by heavy equipment or vehicles is necessary (BMP ESC22);
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Ocean Water Quality Impacts (WR-2 & WR-3). This analysis has determined that discharge of the proposed pipeline system through the outfall at Ormond Beach would exceed the Ocean Plan water quality objectives for mercury, ammonia and copper. Due to the great uncertainty regarding the ultimate composition of the water in the proposed pipeline system, potential exceedances of water quality objectives cannot be fully determined. Therefore, this mitigation measure focuses on the development of compliance criteria to be met by prospective flow contributors to the proposed pipeline system. This analysis would be part of future project- specific environmental documentation required for each facility to discharge to the proposed pipeline system. MM WR-2. Prior to any discharge to the proposed pipeline system, each prospective discharger shall complete an ocean impact analysis using a dilution model acceptable to the LARWQCB. The analysis shall be based on design flow rates and median constituent concentrations, consistent with the Water Quality Analysis conducted by LWA (2001). Extensive water quality testing shall be conducted on the prospective water source, using methods and minimum levels consistent with the Ocean Plan. The discharger shall demonstrate compliance with the effluent limitations of the Ocean Plan, and any other requirements of the NPDES permit issued for the proposed project. Surface Water Quantity Impacts (WR-4 & WR-5). MM WR-3. As part of future environmental documentation, prior to project implementation, CMWD shall complete a beneficial resource study and the recommendations fully implemented. The study shall include the following components: • Hydrology study determining the potential change in wetted bottom area, and relative importance of dry season flow and storm flow in maintaining saturated soils; • Habitat inventory and wetland delineation of all areas affected by stream flow reduction; • Fish and wildlife inventory of affected reaches, focusing on special status species; • Assessment of the loss of riparian habitat area and wetlands associated with reduced dry season flow, and probable effects on fish and wildlife; • Mitigation measures, including purchase of groundwater and/or reclaimed water from wastewater treatment plants for stream discharge to maintain beneficial uses, and off-site habitat creation/restoration. The assessment of impacts and development of mitigation measures shall be sufficiently detailed to determine the nature and magnitude of the impact, and the effects of the mitigation measures in reducing impacts to a level of less than significant. Concept plans for mitigation shall be completed prior to project operation. 5.4.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Mitigation measures provided for the Proposed Action are applicable to the alternative pipeline alignments.
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5.4.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No significant impacts associated with use of the Oxnard outfall were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.4.4 Residual Impacts 5.4.4.1 Proposed Action Construction Impacts (WR-1). Full implementation of the mitigation measures would reduce impacts to a level of less than significant. Ocean Water Quality Impacts (WR-2 & WR-3) Mitigation measure MM WR-2 would prevent any significant ocean water quality impacts. Therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant. Surface Water Quality Impacts (WR- 4 & 5). Full implementation of mitigation measure MM WR-3 would offset significant impacts through maintenance of critical surface flows and/or off-site habitat replacement. Therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant. 5.4.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Residual impacts discussed for the Proposed Action are applicable to the alternative pipeline alignments. 5.4.5 Federal Findings The proposed project would be subject to the Clean Water Act through a Section 401 water quality certification for construction, NPDES permit for ocean discharge, and possibly modifications to existing NDPES permits for stream discharge of RO-treated wastewater. These permits would be issued by the LARWQCB following review by U.S. EPA and the State Water Resources Control Board. These permits would ensure compliance with the Clean Water Act.
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5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 5.5.1 Affected Environment 5.5.1.1 Regional Overview Geography. The preferred pipeline alignment is adjacent to the railroad tracks in the upstream portion of the watershed, adjacent to Arroyo Simi in the middle portion of the watershed, follows Hueneme and Edison Roads in the lower portion of the watershed, and ultimately ties-in to an existing ocean outfall at the Reliant Energy power plant at Ormond Beach (Figures 3-3 through 3-8). With the exception of the southwesterly-most portion of the pipeline alignment and the proposed diversion structure in the Ormond Beach area, the proposed facilities would be located entirely within lowland areas of the Calleguas Creek watershed. The Calleguas Creek watershed is approximately 50 percent developed with agriculture and urban uses, with approximately 50 percent of the watershed in natural areas. The remaining natural areas of the watershed are vegetated with coastal scrub communities, grasslands, oak woodland, oak savanna, chaparral, and riparian communities. Native grassland areas, oak woodlands, and riparian areas have largely been replaced by agricultural and urban uses. Hydrology. The Calleguas Creek watershed drains an area of approximately 343 square miles in southern Ventura County. Primary water bodies are Calleguas Creek, Conejo Creek, Arroyo Los Posas, Arroyo Conejo, Arroyo Santa Rosa, Arroyo Simi, Revolon Slough, and Mugu Lagoon. The northern boundary of the watershed consists of the Santa Susana Mountains, South Mountain, and Oak Ridge, while the southern boundary is defined by the Simi Hills and Santa Monica Mountains. Land uses within the watershed vary. Development is concentrated within the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Thousand Oaks, Oxnard and Camarillo. Agriculture is a dominant land use, consisting primarily of orchards and row crops along the valleys and the Oxnard Plain. Mugu Lagoon is a coastal estuary that encompasses approximately 320 acres of open water and adjacent salt marsh (Onuf, 1987). The lagoon extends approximately 3.6 miles parallel to the coast, but is no more than 0.7 miles wide. Mugu Lagoon was formed approximately 3,000 years ago during a period of higher sea levels, and may have been 10 times as large as it is today (Onuf, 1987). Prior to extensive human disturbance, Mugu Lagoon was not an estuary but, in fact, a true lagoon, with direct ocean access and minimal freshwater input (Onuf, 1987). Calleguas Creek did not flow directly into the lagoon, but rather into an extensive delta of freshwater marshes that occupied much of the Oxnard Plain. In 1884, shortly after railroad connections with San Francisco and the eastern United States were established and crop agriculture had become widely established on the Oxnard Plain, Calleguas Creek was channelized to direct flood waters away from crop land (former freshwater marsh), directing the creek into the northern portion of Mugu Lagoon (Onuf 1987). After the Creek was diverted into it, Mugu Lagoon became more estuarine in nature.
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Mugu Lagoon, unlike most of the region’s coastal wetlands, receives perennial freshwater input associated with discharge of treated wastewater into Arroyo Conejo and Conejo Creek. Due to this constant flow, closure of the ocean inlet to the lagoon has not been documented for over 20 years. Mugu Lagoon is typified by fairly constant tidal flushing on the whole. Mugu Lagoon is one of the largest and most important coastal wetlands in southern California, and one of the least disturbed and best protected. However, it has been adversely affected by human disturbance. Current threats to the lagoon include large inputs of sediments, agricultural fertilizers, pesticides, and urban pollutants from the Calleguas Creek watershed. High sediment inputs from Calleguas Creek threaten to fill the lagoon, and have already substantially reduced its depth and volume in the last several decades (Onuf 1987). Erosion potential in the watershed is high due to the steep topography and the mineral composition and structure of exposed rocks, which are almost exclusively sedimentary in origin, and of relatively young age (less than 100 million years old) (Onuf, 1987). Erosion has been greatly accelerated by human development, most notably the conversion of natural areas to agriculture (Onuf, 1987). The Calleguas Creek Watershed Implementation Plan for Mugu Lagoon was developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service and Forest Service in 1994 for and in cooperation with the Ventura County Resource Conservation District and the California State Coastal Conservancy. The purpose of the Implementation Plan is to identify and quantify erosion sources and sediment transport in the watershed, and to formulate a plan to address and minimize present and future sedimentation impacts to Mugu Lagoon. The Implementation Plan explores a number of alternatives to minimize sedimentation impacts, including the implementation of erosion control measures at land uses throughout the watershed (particularly agriculture), stabilization of eroding creek banks, enhancement of riparian and upland vegetation, and constructing sediment trapping basins along Calleguas Creek and its tributaries upstream of the lagoon. The County of Ventura, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), and other responsible agencies have been working to implement several of the measures recommended by the Implementation Plan. Vegetation. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (1994) determined that the Calleguas Creek watershed supports about 50 percent native habitat, with the remainder comprised of urban and agricultural land uses. Coastal scrub and chaparral communities comprise much of this habitat area.
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Figure 5.5-1. Habitat Types of Segment F-G / The Phase I Pipeline Alignment (click to view)
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Figure 5.5-2. Habitat Types of Segment G-H / The Phase I Pipeline Alignment (click to view)
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Figure 5.5-3. Habitat Types of Segment A-C / The Phase II Pipeline Alignment (click to view)
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Figure 5.5-4. Habitat Types of Segment C-D / The Phase II Pipeline Alignment (click to view)
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Figure 5.5-5. Habitat Types of Segment D-E / The Phase II Pipeline Alignment (click to view)
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Figure 5.5-6. Habitat Types of Segment E-F / The Phase II Pipeline Alignment (click to view)
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5.5.1.2 Site-Specific Setting Vegetation. Based on field surveys by Padre conducted on June 26 and December 27, 2001 and March 4, 2002, and inspection of aerial photographs, generalized plant communities have been identified along the pipeline alignments (see Figures 5.5-1 through 5.5- 6). Plant communities along the pipeline alignments are highly variable and the quality of habitat varies considerably. Many areas traversed by the pipeline alignments are adjacent to roadways or maintained channelized drainages, and have been heavily influenced by human activities, which have resulted in the replacement of native plant communities with concrete and/or non-native plant species. However, several areas along the pipeline alignments are less disturbed and are dominated by native vegetation. Principal communities include riparian, coastal scrub, chaparral, annual grassland, salt marsh and foredunes. Riparian Communities. Riparian habitats in the vicinity of the pipeline alignments vary considerably in composition and density based on the availability of soil moisture, past disturbance history, substrate and gradient. Smaller intermittent streams generally support mulefat scrub (dominated by mulefat [Baccharis salicifolia]) or southern willow scrub (dominated by arroyo willow [Salix lasiolepis] and mulefat). Larger streams such as Arroyo Simi, Conejo Creek and Arroyo Conejo are generally perennial due to rising groundwater (Arroyo Conejo) and/or discharge of treated wastewater (Arroyo Simi, Conejo Creek and Arroyo Conejo). These streams support more diverse riparian communities, both in terms of species diversity and structural diversity (multiple canopy layers). However, channelization and flood control maintenance has resulted in the loss or simplification of these riparian communities in some locations, as riparian forest is replaced by linear strips of immature willow scrub. Relatively undisturbed portions of Arroyo Simi support arroyo willow riparian forest, dominated by arroyo willow, red willow (Salix laevigata), narrow-leaf willow (Salix exigua), mulefat and giant reed (Arundo donax). Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii) may also occur, forming patches of willow-cottonwood riparian forest. Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) and Mexican elderberry (Sambucus mexicana) may occur along the margins of these riparian communities, where inundation is less frequent. Arroyo Conejo also supports arroyo willow riparian forest, and species composition is quite variable depending on location relative to stream flow, disturbance history, and soil depth. Generally, it is dominated by arroyo willow, but red willow is codominant in many areas. Western sycamore (Platanus racemosa) is scattered within this community, and may be locally dominant in canopy area. The non-native giant reed is also scattered within this community, and may be locally dominant, forming dense clumps. Coast live oaks may also dominate riparian communities along undisturbed drainages, with willows (Salix sp.), western sycamore, mulefat, and giant reed also present. The banks of smaller intermittent streams in the watershed are often planted with non-native trees such as blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), ornamental pines or black locust (Robinia sp.). These trees may reduce the diversity of instream riparian communities through shading and litter accumulation.
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Emergent vegetation within more permanent streams is common and is generally dominated by cattail and rush species (Typha sp. and Juncus sp.). However, non-native species are generally dominant in shallow areas, and include watercress (Rorippa nasturtium- aquaticum), curly dock (Rumex crispus) and water speedwell (Veronica anagallis-aquatica) and annual beard grass (Polypogon monspeliensis). Coastal Scrub occurs near the following pipeline alignments: • Segment A-B, north of the railroad tracks; • Segment B-C (preferred alignment and eastern portion of Alternative A); and • Segment D-E1, across Conejo Creek (Alternatives B and C). Coastal scrub vegetation is typified by low to moderate-sized drought-deciduous shrubs with shallow root systems. In the Calleguas Creek watershed, coastal scrub is dominated by California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), black sage (Salvia mellifera), purple sage (Salvia leucophylla), our Lord’s candle (Yucca whipplei), coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis), and buckwheat (Eriogonum cinereum, E. fasciculatum). Prickly pear cactus (Opuntia littoralis) is also common and may form dense aggregations on hillsides. Coastal scrub vegetation in the Calleguas Creek watershed forms a complex mosaic, interspersed with annual grassland, oak woodland and various forms of chaparral. Chaparral. This community occurs near the following pipeline alignments: • Segment A-B, north of the railroad tracks; • Segment B-C (eastern portion of the preferred alignment); and • Segment D-E1 (Alternatives B and C). Dominant species include buckbrush (Ceanothus cuneatus), chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), and scrub oak (Quercus berberidifolia). This community often forms a mosaic with coastal sage scrub on slopes within the Calleguas Creek watershed. Coast Live Oak Woodland. Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) woodland occurs on slopes adjacent to Segment B-C of the preferred pipeline alignment. Annual Grasslands. This community occurs near the following pipeline alignments: • Segment B-C, north of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks (preferred alignment and Alternative A); and • Segment C-D (Alternatives A and B). This community is characterized by mostly annual grasses that have mostly colonized areas disturbed by past construction or agricultural activities (including grazing). It is dominated by non-native species, including wild oats (Avena fatua), ripgut grass (Bromus diandrus), red brome (Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens), tocalote (Centaurea melitensis) and summer mustard (Hirschfeldia incana).
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Salt Marsh. This community occurs near the Ormond Beach power plant and south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant (Segment G-H, all three alignments). Dominant species include pickleweed (Salicornia virginica), fleshy jaumea (Jaumea carnosa), salt grass (Distichlis spicata), alkali heath (Frankenia salina), and marsh baccharis (Baccharis douglasii). There are also several areas of unvegetated salt pans. The endangered salt marsh bird’s-beak (Cordylanthus maritimus) has been reported in this community from the vicinity of the Ormond Beach power plant. Coastal Foredunes. This community also occurs near the Ormond Beach power plant. The quality of dune habitat in the vicinity of Ormond Beach is variable; some dune areas are dominated by the introduced iceplant (Carpobrotus edulis) while others are dominated by native vegetation such as beach bur (Ambrosia chamissonis), pink sand verbena (Abronia umbellata var. umbellata), salt grass (Distichlis spicata), beach primrose (Camissonia cheiranthifolia), and beach morning-glory (Calystegia soldanella). Aquatic and Terrestrial Wildlife. The following is a brief discussion of wildlife species known to occur along the pipeline alignments. Fish. Species observed in drainages of the watershed include arroyo chub (Gila orcutti), mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis), green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus), large-mouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), black bullhead (Ameiurus melas), and goldfish (Carassius auratus) (Arroyo Conejo - Padre 1998 & 1999b, Arroyo Simi – Montgomery Watson 1995). Fish species known to occur in estuarine marsh habitat of the Ormond Beach area include topsmelt (Atherinops affinis), goldfish (Carassius auratus), arrow goby (Clevelandia ios), tidewater goby (Eucyclogbius newberryi), California killfish (Fundulus parvipinnis), mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis), and longjaw mudsucker (Gillichthus mirabilis) (Impact Sciences 1995). Amphibians. Amphibian species observed in the watershed include western toad (Bufo boreas), bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), Pacific treefrog (Hyla regilla) and black-bellied salamander (Batrachoseps nigriventris) (Padre 1998). Monterey salamander (Ensatina eschscholtzia) and arboreal salamander (Aneides lugubris) have a high potential to occur in oak-dominated riparian and upland habitat within the watershed. Reptiles. Lizards observed in the watershed include side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana), western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis), southern alligator lizard (Elgaria multicarinata), coastal western whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus) silvery legless lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra) and coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum frontale) (Padre 1998; ENSR 1997; NDDB 2001). Western skink (Eumeces skiltonianus) may also occur within the watershed.
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Snakes observed in the watershed include San Diego gopher snake (Pituophis melanoleucus annectans), western rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis), two-striped garter snake (Thamnophis hammondii), California kingsnake (Lampropeltis getulus californiae), striped whipsnake (Masticophis lateralis) and San Diego mountain kingsnake (Lampropeltis getulus) (Padre 1998 & 1999b; Montgomery Watson 1995; Impact Sciences 1997). San Bernardino ring-necked snake (Diadophus punctatus modestus), coast patched-nose snake (Salvadora hexalepis virgultea), long-nosed snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei), and red coachwhip (Masticophus flagellum piceus) have the potential to occur within the watershed. Red coachwhip was reported in Happy Camp Canyon by Brisby (1978), north of Moorpark, but subsequent agricultural activities may have extirpated this species. The southwestern pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida) is known to occur in Arroyo Conejo and Conejo Creek (Fugro West 1995b), and may also occur in Arroyo Simi. Red-eared slider (Chrysemys scripta elegans) has been observed in Arroyo Conejo (Fugro West 1995b). Birds. At least 198 bird species have been observed at Point Mugu Naval Air Station, including wetland and upland species (Onuf 1987). Ornithological surveys in the southeastern portion of the watershed (Arroyo Conejo) identified 68 resident or regular migrant species of birds within or adjacent to the riparian corridor (Padre 1998 & 1999b). Additional species occurring more removed from the riparian corridor are expected to be present. Ornithological surveys in the southwestern portion of the watershed (Conejo Creek at Camarillo Regional Park) identified 58 resident or regular migrant species of birds (Impact Sciences 1997). Ornithological surveys in the eastern portion of the watershed (White Oaks Park, Simi Valley) identified 56 resident or regular migrant species of birds. Bird species known to occur along the upper reach of the proposed pipeline alignment include Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii), red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus), red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia brewsteri), yellow-breasted chat (Icteria virens), hooded oriole (Icterus cucullatus), Brewer’s blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus), black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans), red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), rough-winged swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis), cliff swallow (Hyrundo pyrrhonota), barn swallow (Hyrundo rustica), white-throated swift (Aeronautes saxatalis), California towhee (Pipilo crissalis), California quail (Callipepla californica), and California scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californicus). These species were observed along Arroyo Simi between Simi Valley WQCP and Hitch Blvd within the upper seven miles of the proposed pipeline alignment (Montgomery Watson 1995). Other common species reported from the watershed include downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens), hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus), Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii), northern flicker (Colaptes auratus), acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus), violet-green swallow (Tachycineta thalassina), oak titmouse (Parus inornatus), western bluebird (Sialis mexicanus), house wren (Troglodytes aedon), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), American kestrel (Falco sparverius), great horned owl (Bubo virginiensis), barn owl (Tyto alba), and western screech-owl (Otus kennicottii).
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Many shorebirds and pelagic birds occur in the Ormond Beach area including several special-status species including the Federal and State endangered California least tern (Sterna albifrons browni) and the Federal threatened western snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus). Mammals. Mammals observed in the watershed include Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis), Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae), raccoon (Procyon lotor), coyote (Canis latrans), bobcat (Lynx rufus), mountain lion (Felis concolor), gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), American badger (Taxidea taxus), Audubon’s cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii), western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus), California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi), California pocket mouse (Chaetodipus californicus), western harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys megalotis), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), cactus mouse (Peromyscus eremicus), California vole (Microtus californicus), dusky-footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes), San Diego desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia) and black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus) (Padre 1998 & 1999b; ESA 1997, NDDB 2001). Other mammals that are likely to occur within the watershed include long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), California myotis (Myotis californicus), ornate shrew (Sorex ornatus) and broad-footed mole (Scapanus latimanus). Mammals known to occur in the vicinity of Ormond Beach include California salt marsh shrew (Sorex ornatus salicornus), Virginia opossum, Botta’s pocket gopher, deer mouse, house mouse (Mus musculus), striped skunk, long-tailed weasel, California ground squirrel, Audubon’s cottontail, Black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus benetti), red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and feral cat (Felis domesticus) (Biosystems Analysis 1993; Impact Sciences 1995). Black-tailed jackrabbit was formerly common in southern California from the coast to the desert but now is scattered in remnant populations. This species is known to occur in the Ormond Beach area (Impact Sciences 1995) and near Arroyo Simi (MWD 1994). Marine Community. The following discussion focuses on the species that would be expected to be exposed to effluent at the existing Ormond Beach or Oxnard outfalls. Marine Mammals. Thirty species of cetaceans (baleen and toothed whales) occasionally visit, migrate through, or inhabit the Pacific Ocean in the project region (Santa Barbara Channel). At least eight species generally can be found in the area in moderate or high numbers either year-round or during annual migrations into or through the area. These include Dall's porpoise, Pacific white-sided dolphin, Risso's dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, common dolphin, northern right whale dolphin, Cuvier's beaked whale, and gray whale (USN 2000). In addition, sightings of humpback and blue whales in the Santa Barbara Channel have become more common in recent years. The common dolphin, white-sided dolphin, and Pacific bottlenose dolphin, are permanent residents of the region (BLM 1981). Other cetacean species, such as the gray whale, migrate past and through the Santa Barbara Channel. Often gray whales swim from less than 0.8 km (0.5 miles) to 3 km (2 miles) from shore. The only cetacean commonly reported from nearshore waters (less than 0.5 miles offshore) is the bottlenose dolphin. This species is occasionally seen surfing waves along the Ventura County coast or congregating near the entrance to the Channel Islands Harbor (personal observation, Ingamells, 2000), which is about 3 miles northwest of the Oxnard outfall, and 4 miles northwest of the Ormond Beach outfall.
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The most common species of pinnipeds inhabiting the project region are the California sea lion, northern fur seal, harbor seal and the northern elephant seal (BLM 1981). The California sea lion is the most common pinniped in the project area, with an estimated minimum population size of 111,339 in the western United States (NMFS 1999). Both California sea lion and harbor seal are common in nearshore waters, and would be the mostly likely pinniped species exposed to discharges from the project outfalls. Fish. Based on fish impingement (trapped on inlet screens) at the Ormond Beach power plant, the local fish community is dominated by northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax), speckled sanddab (Citharichthys stigmaeus), shiner perch (Cymatogaster aggregata) and queenfish (Seriphus politus) (MBC 2001). Dive surveys at the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall indicate senorita (Oxyjulis californica) and kelp bass (Paralabrax clathratus) are dominant species (Aquatic Bioassay 2001). Speckled sanddab and queenfish were the most common fish caught during trawl sampling conducted near the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall and two miles to the southeast (Aquatic Bioassay 2001). White croaker (Genyonemus lineatus), queenfish and northern anchovy were the most common fish captured during trawl sampling conducted near the Mandalay power plant (8 miles northwest of Ormond Beach) from 1978 through 1999. Macroinvertebrates. Based on impingement sampling (trapped on inlet screens) at the Ormond Beach power plant, the local invertebrate community is dominated by Pacific rock crab (Cancer antennarius) and purple-striped jelly (Pelagia colorata) (MBC 2001). Spotted bay shrimp (Crangon nigromaculata) were commonly caught during winter trawl sampling conducted near the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall and two miles to the southeast (Aquatic Bioassay 2001). Wildlife Movement Corridors. Wildlife migration corridors are generally defined as connections between habitat patches that allow for physical and genetic exchange between otherwise isolated animal populations. Migration corridors may be local such as between foraging and nesting or denning areas, or they may be regional in nature. Migration corridors are not unidirectional access routes; however, reference is usually made to source and receiver areas in discussions of wildlife movement networks. "Habitat linkages" are migration corridors that contain contiguous strips of native vegetation between source and receiver areas. Habitat linkages provide cover and forage sufficient for temporary habitation by a variety of ground- dwelling animal species. Wildlife migration corridors are essential to the regional ecology of an area as they provide avenues of genetic exchange and allow animals to access alternative territories as fluctuating dispersal pressures dictate. Calleguas Creek, Arroyo Simi, Conejo Creek, and associated tributaries may play an important role as migration corridors for wildlife species moving between the Santa Monica and the Santa Susana mountains through Simi Valley to Mugu Lagoon and coastal habitat. These migration corridors are especially critical through urban areas where human activities would otherwise prohibit or impair the movement of species between habitat areas. Mugu Lagoon and the wetlands at Ormond Beach serve as important habitat for bird species during migration through the Pacific Flyway. Many birds species use these areas as an annual stopover location for several days of rest and feeding prior to continuing migration to their seasonal destination. These habitats also provide critical staging areas for migratory species.
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Sensitive Communities. For the purposes of this analysis, sensitive natural communities included those that are considered rare by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) Natural Diversity Data Base (NDDB), considered sensitive by other trustee agencies or the scientific community. The NDDB has inventoried natural communities and ranked them according to their rarity and potential for loss. Rare natural communities found within the watershed and their conservation status are provided below in Table 5.5-1. Riparian forest is a community that is in decline along many of the rivers and streams in California. Riparian areas are ecologically important because they provide habitat elements including water, food, and cover to many animal species, as well as nesting habitat for many bird species. Riparian areas also serve as migration corridors for many animal species especially through urban areas. Riparian forest along the pipeline alignment is degraded in most areas, invaded by non-native species that out-compete native vegetation, or are channelized through urban areas. Even the highest quality riparian forest along the pipeline alignment (including mature native vegetation in both overstory and understory layers) has been adversely affected by human activities, which decreases the habitat value for wildlife (Montgomery Watson 1995).
Table 5.5-1. Special-Status Natural Communities of the Watershed Community NDDB Ranking Southern cottonwood-willow riparian forest G3, S3.2 Southern arroyo willow riparian forest G2, S2.1 Southern riparian scrub G3, S3.2 Southern willow scrub G3, S2.1 Valley oak woodland G3, S2.1 California walnut woodland G2, S2.1 Coastal scrub communities Varies with composition Southern coastal salt marsh G2, S2.1 Coastal freshwater marsh G3, S2.1 Coastal brackish marsh G2, S2.1 Southern foredune G2, S2.1 NDDB Rankings G2 2,000 to 10,000 acres of this habitat exist worldwide, and the habitat is considered very threatened. G3: Between 10,000 and 50,000 acres of this community remain worldwide, and the community is considered threatened. S2.1 Between 2,000 to 10,000 acres of this habitat exist Statewide, and the habitat is considered very threatened. S3.2 Between 10,000 to 50,000 acres of this community remain statewide, and the community is considered threatened.
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Coastal scrub communities are becoming increasingly rare throughout their range and are considered endangered by much of the scientific community (Westman 1981, Westman 1986, Atwood 1990). Davis et al. (1995) consider coastal scrub a natural community at risk because less than five percent of remaining is protected in parks, reserves, and conservation easements. CDFG (1983) estimated that 75 to 90 percent of coastal salt marsh habitats have been destroyed, and the remaining estuarine habitats have mostly been seriously degraded. Salt marsh exists on both the east and west side of the Reliant Energy property at the end of Edison Road. The endangered salt marsh bird’s beak (Cordylanthus maritimus ssp. maritimus) has been documented within this area. Another sensitive habitat within this location is the freshwater/brackish marsh along the edges of the canal that runs northeast of the salt marshes. This canal supports thick stands of emergent bulrush (Scirpus sp.) at the canal edges, as well as both native and non-native plants along the banks of the canal. Coastal foredunes occur along the southwest portion of the Reliant Energy property. Red sand verbena (Abronia maritima), a plant of limited distribution, has been documented in the dunes immediately south of the Reliant Property. Regulated Waters and Wetlands. The term wetland is used to describe a particular landscape characterized by inundation or saturation with water for a sufficient duration to result in the alteration of physical, chemical, and biological elements relative to the surrounding landscape. Wetland areas are characterized by prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands provide habitats that are essential to the survival of many threatened or endangered species as well as other wetland dependent species. Wetlands also have value to the public for flood retention, storm abatement, aquifer recharge, water quality improvement, and for aesthetic qualities. Wetlands also play a role in the maintenance of air and water quality and contribute to the stability of global levels of available nitrogen, atmospheric sulfur, carbon dioxide, and methane (Mitsch and Grosselink 1986). Wetlands are rapidly declining within California and efforts are being made to maintain and preserve remaining wetlands within California. Historically, Southern California had extensive wetlands with significant freshwater inflow. Approximately 90 percent have been destroyed, leaving few isolated wetlands comprising fragmented wetland habitat. Regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over wetlands include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) with authority to enforce two Federal regulations involving wetland preservation; the Clean Water Act (Section 404), which regulates the disposal of dredge and fill materials in waters of the U.S., and the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (Section 10), which regulates diking, filling, and placement of structures in navigable waterways. State regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over wetlands include the State Water Quality Control Board that enforces compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act (Section 401) regulating water quality; the California Coastal Commission, which regulates development within the coastal zone as stipulated in the California Coastal Act (Sections 30230, 30231, 30233, and 30240 apply to preservation and protection of wetlands); and the California Department of Fish and Game, which asserts jurisdiction over waters and wetlands with actions that involve alterations to streams or lakes by issuing Streambed Alteration Agreements under Section 1600 of the Fish and Game Code.
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Definitions. As defined by the Corps at 33 CFR 328.3(a)(3), “water of the United States” are those that are currently used, or were used in the past, or may be susceptible to use in interstate or foreign commerce, including all waters which are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide; tributaries and impoundments to such waters; all interstate waters including interstate wetlands; and territorial seas. Based on the 2001 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County v. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and guidance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Federal government no longer asserts jurisdiction over isolated waters and wetlands under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act based on the ”migratory bird rule”. Further guidance on the issue of isolated wetlands and waters is expected from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Under Corps and EPA regulations, wetlands are defined as: "those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas." In non-tidal waters, the lateral extent of Corps jurisdiction is determined by the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) which is defined as the: “…line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as clear, natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the character of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas.” (33 CFR 328[e]). In tidal waters, the Corps’ jurisdiction under Section 404 of the Clean Water extends to the high tide line (HTL), which, in the absence of actual data, is defined as “…a line of oil or scum along shore objects, a more or less continuous deposit of fine shells or debris on the foreshore or berm, other physical markings or characteristics, vegetation lines, tidal gages, or other suitable means that delineate the general height reached by a rising tide.” The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), formerly the Soil Conservation Service, is responsible for identifying waters, including wetlands, on agricultural lands and associated non-agricultural lands pursuant to the Food Security Act of 1985 (PL 99- 198), the Food, Agricultural, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (PL 101-624), the Federal Agricultural Improvement and Reform Act of 1996, and the 1994 Interagency Memorandum of Agreement. Agricultural land is defined by the National Food Security Act Manual as “…land that is intensively used and managed for the production of food and fiber. Examples are cropland, hayland, and pastureland, including native pastures and rangeland, orchards, vineyards, areas which support wetland crops, other lands use to produce or support the production of livestock and small tree farms.” On sites that qualify as agricultural land, the wetland delineations are verified by NRCS, but Section 404 permits are still issued by the Corps.
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and CDFG define wetlands as: “…lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface or the land is covered by shallow water. For the purposes of this classification, wetlands must have one or more of the following attributes: 1) at least periodically, the land supports predominantly hydrophytes; 2) the substrate is predominantly undrained hydric soil; and 3) the substrate is non-soil and is saturated with water or covered by shallow water at some time during the growing season each year.” The Ventura County General Plan Goals, Policies and Programs document defines wetlands as: “…lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface or the land is covered by shallow water. The frequency of occurrence of water is sufficient to support a prevalence of vegetative or aquatic life that requires saturated or seasonally saturated soil conditions for growth and reproduction. Wetlands include marshes, bogs, sloughs, vernal pools, wet meadows, river and stream overflows, mudflats, ponds, springs and seeps.” Distribution of Wetlands. All of the major drainages (Calleguas Creek, Revolon Slough, Arroyo Las Posas, Arroyo Simi, Conejo Creek, Arroyo Conejo) support waters of the U.S. and Corps-defined wetlands, at least in areas where wetland vegetation persists and soils have not been recently disturbed. In addition, some of the larger tributaries may also support Corps-defined wetlands. Nearly all major and minor drainages in the watershed support U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and CDFG-defined wetlands and County-defined wetlands, since these definitions only require that hydrophytes are either present at some time or the area is capable of supporting hydrophytes. Even frequently maintained flood control channels support some hydrophytes. Wetlands include salt marsh and freshwater/brackish marsh, which occur near the Ormond Beach Reliant Energy property. Wetlands within these areas provide habitat for many wildlife and plant species. Special-Status Plant Species. Special-status plant species are either listed as endangered or threatened under the Federal or California Endangered Species Acts, or rare under the California Native Plant Protection Act, or considered to be rare (but not formally listed) by resource agencies, professional organizations (California Native Plant Society), and the scientific community. For the purposes of this project, special-status plant species are defined in Table 5.5-2. The literature search and field surveys conducted for this impact analysis indicates that 12 special-status plant species occur in the vicinity of project components. Table 5.5-3 provides a discussion of the current regulatory status and nearest known location of each species, relative to project components.
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Table 5.5-2. Definitions of Special-Status Plant Species ¾ Plants listed or proposed for listing as threatened or endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act (50 CFR 17.12 for listed plants and various notices in the Federal Register for proposed species). ¾ Plants that are candidates for possible future listing as threatened or endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act (Federal Register Vol. 66, No. 210, pp. 54807-54832, October 30, 2001). ¾ Plants that meet the definitions of rare or endangered species under the CEQA (State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15380). ¾ Plants considered by the CNPS to be "rare, threatened, or endangered" in California (Lists 1B and 2 in Skinner and Pavlik, 1994). ¾ Plants listed by CNPS as plants about which we need more information and plants of limited distribution (Lists 3 and 4 in Skinner and Pavlik, 1994). ¾ Plants listed or proposed for listing by the State of California as threatened or endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (14 CCR 670.5). ¾ Plants listed under the California Native Plant Protection Act (California Fish and Game Code 1900 et seq.). ¾ Plants considered sensitive by other Federal agencies (i.e., U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management), state and local agencies or jurisdictions. ¾ Plants considered sensitive or unique by the scientific community or occurring at the limits of its natural range Table 5.5-3. Special-Status Plant Species of the Pipeline Alignments Common Name Status Nearest Known Location (Scientific Name) Listed Species Verity’s dudleya Conejo Creek; 500 feet east of Segment D-E1, Alternatives B & C FT, List 1B (Dudleya verityi) (Burgess 1985) Conejo buckwheat SR, List Camarillo Regional Park; 1,500 feet east of Segment D-E2, Alternative A (Eriogonum crocatum) 1B (Impact Sciences 1997) Salt marsh bird’s beak FE, SE, South Ormond Beach, adjacent to Segment G-H2 preferred alignment (Cordylanthus maritimus ssp. List 1B and Alternative B (Jones and Stokes 1995) maritimus) Non-Listed Special-Status Species Plummer’s mariposa lily List 1B Simi Valley Landfill; 2,000 feet north of Segment A-B (Padre 2001b) (Calochortus plummerae) Catalina mariposa lily List 4 Simi Valley Landfill; 2,000 feet north of Segment A-B (Padre 2001b) (Calochortus catalinae) Coulter’s goldfields Ormond Beach, 2,500 feet west of Segment G-H2 preferred alignment List 1B (Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri) (NDDB 2001). Blochman’s dudleya Conejo Creek; 500 feet east of Segment D-E1, Alternatives B & C (Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. List 1B (Burgess 1985) blochmaniae) Red sand verbena North and south Ormond Beach, adjacent to Segment G-H2 preferred and List 4 (Abronia maritima) Alternative B alignments (Impact Sciences 1995, Jones and Stokes 1995) Spiny rush South Ormond Beach, adjacent to Segment G-H2 preferred alignment List 4 (Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii) and Alternative B (Jones and Stokes 1995) Coast live oak TPO Observed along Segments A-B, B-C and C-D (Quercus agrifolia) Western sycamore TPO Observed along Segment B-C (Platanus racemosa) Southern California black walnut Observed along Segment C-D Alternative A, may also occur along the List 4 (Juglans californica var. californica) preferred alignment
Status Codes: FE Federal Endangered (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS]) FT Federal Threatened (USFWS) List 1B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere (CNPS) List 4 Plants of limited distribution (CNPS) SE State Endangered (CDFG) SR State Rare (CDFG) TPO Protected under the Ventura County Tree Protection Ordinance if girth > 9.5”
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Special Status Wildlife Species. For the purposes of this project, special-status wildlife species are defined in Table 5.5-4. Literature research and field surveys conducted for this impact analysis indicates that 38 special-status wildlife species occur in the vicinity of project components. Information regarding regulatory status and known location of these species relative to project components is provided in Tables 5.5-5 and 5.5-6, for listed and non- listed species, respectively. Additional discussion of threatened and endangered species is provided below.
Table 5.5-4. Definitions of Special-Status Wildlife Species
Special-Status Animal Species ¾ Animals listed or proposed for listing as threatened or endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act (50 CFR 17.11 for listed animals and various notices in the Federal Register for proposed species). ¾ Animals that are candidates for possible future listing as threatened or endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act (Federal Register Vol. 66, No. 210, pp. 54807-54832, October 30, 2001). ¾ Animals that meet the definitions of rare or endangered species under the CEQA (State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15380). ¾ Animals listed or proposed for listing by the State of California as threatened and endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (14 CCR 670.5). ¾ Animal species of special concern to the CDFG (Remsen, 1978 for birds; Williams, 1986 for mammals). ¾ Animal species that are fully protected in California (California Fish and Game Code, Section 3511 [birds], 4700 [mammals], and 5050 [reptiles and amphibians]). ¾ Marine mammals protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (Public Law 103-238).
Table 5.5-5. Listed Special-Status Wildlife Species of the Pipeline Alignments Common Name Status Nearest Known Occurrence(s) (Scientific Name) Fish Oxnard Industrial Drain, adjacent to Segment G-H1 Tidewater goby FPD, CSC Alternative A, may also occur in the Oxnard Drain (Impact (Eucyclogobius newberryi) Sciences 1995) Birds Light-footed clapper rail Mugu Lagoon, 3 miles southeast of the Ormond Beach SE, FE, P (Rallus longirostris levipes) outfall (NDDB 2001) North and south Ormond Beach, adjacent to the preferred California least tern and Alternative B pipeline alignments and Alternative B SE, FE (Sterna antillarum browni) diversion structure site (Impact Sciences 1995, Jones and Stokes 1995). California brown pelican SE, FE, P Anacapa Island (nesting), , species is common along (Pelecanus cccidentalis (nesting beaches of the area, and roosts in large numbers at Mugu californicus) colony) Lagoon Ormond Beach, adjacent to Segment G-H preferred and Western snowy plover FT, CSC Alternative B alignments and Alternative B diversion (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) structure site (Jones and Stokes 1995) Belding’s savannah sparrow Ormond Beach, adjacent to Segment G-H preferred, (Passerculus sandwichensis SE Alternative A & B alignments and Alternative A diversion beldingi) structure site (Jones and Stokes 1995) Least Bell's vireo Arroyo Simi, adjacent to Segment B-C Alternative A (NDDB FE, SE (Vireo belli pusillus) 2001) Coastal California gnatcatcher Near Moorpark, approximately 0.5 mile north of Segment B- FT, CSC (Polioptila californica californica) C preferred alignment and Alternative B (NDDB 2001). Status Codes: CSC California Species of Special Concern (CDFG) FE Federal Endangered (USFWS) FPD Federal Proposed for Delisting (USFWS) FT Federal Threatened (USFWS) P Protected under the California Fish and Game Code SE State Endangered (CDFG)
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Table 5.5-6. Non-Listed Special-Status Wildlife Species of the Pipeline Alignments
Common Name Status Nearest Known Occurrence(s) (Scientific Name) Invertebrates Sandy beach tiger beetle Point Mugu, 3 miles southeast of the Ormond Beach outfall SA (Cicindela hirticollis gravida) (NDDB 2001), may occur at Ormond Beach North and south Ormond Beach, adjacent to Segment G-H2 Globose dune beetle preferred and Alternative B alignments and Alternative B SA (Coelus globosus) diversion structure site (Impact Sciences 1995, Jones and Stokes 1995) North and south Ormond Beach, adjacent to all three Wandering skipper SA Segment G-H alignments (Impact Sciences 1995, Jones and (Panoquina errans) Stokes 1995) Oxnard, Etting Rd. at Olds Rd., approximately 2,500 feet Monarch butterfly SA north of Segment F-G Alternative A; 5,000 feet north of (Danaus plexippus) Segment F-G preferred alignment (NDDB 2001) California brackish water snail Mugu Lagoon, 3 miles southeast of the Ormond Beach SA (Tryonia imitator) outfall (NDDB 2001) may occur in the Oxnard Drain Fish Arroyo Simi, Conejo Creek, Calleguas Creek and Revolon Arroyo chub CSC Slough, adjacent to Segments B-C Alt. A, C-D preferred & (Gila orcuttii) Alt. B, D-E, E-F, F-G (NDDB 2001) Reptiles Southwestern pond turtle Conejo Creek, adjacent to Segment D-E1 Alternatives B & C CSC, P (Clemmys marmorata pallida) (Fugro West 1995b) Coast horned lizard Happy Camp Canyon, 1.5 miles north of Segment B-C CSC, P (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillei) (Brisby 1978), may occur along this Segment Arroyo Simi, adjacent to Segment B-C preferred and Alternative A alignments (MWD 1994) Coastal western whiptail W. Cochran Road, 1,000 feet north of Segment A-B (ENSR (Cnemidophorus tigris SA 1997) multiscutatus) Camarillo Regional Park, adjacent to Segment D-E1 Alt. B & C (Impact Sciences 1997) Silvery legless lizard Arroyo Simi, adjacent to Segment B-C Alternative A (MWD CSC (Anniella pulchra pulchra) 1994) Two-striped garter snake Conejo Creek, adjacent to Segment D-E1 Alternatives B & C CSC, P (Thamnophis hammondi) (Fugro West 1995b) Santa Monica Mountains: 9 miles south of the project site San Bernardino ringneck snake SA (DeLisle et al. 1986), could occur along Arroyo Simi and (Diadophis punctatus modestus) Conejo Creek Arroyo Conejo, approximately 5 miles east of the Camrosa San Diego mountain kingsnake CSC Water Reclamation Facility (Padre Associates 1999b), could (Lampropeltis zonata pulchra) occur along Arroyo Simi and Conejo Creek Observed historically in the Simi Hills, approximately 4 miles Coast patch-nosed snake CSC south of the project site (MWD 1994), could occur along (Salvadora hexalepis virgultea) Arroyo Simi and Conejo Creek Status Codes: AWL Audubon Watch List CSC California Species of Special Concern (CDFG) MMPA Protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act P Protected under California Fish and Game Code SA Special animal (CDFG)
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Table 5.5-6. Continued
Common Name Status Nearest Known Occurrence(s) (Scientific Name) Birds Cooper's hawk Arroyo Simi, adjacent to Segment B-C Alternative A (MWD CSC (Accipiter cooperi) 1994; Montgomery-Watson 1995) White-tailed kite Camarillo Regional Park; 1,500 feet east of Segment D-E2, SA, P (Elanus caeruleus) Alternative A (Impact Sciences 1997) Burrowing owl Upper Dry Canyon, approximately 3 miles northeast of CSC (Athene cunicularia) Segment A-B (NDDB 2001). Arroyo Simi, adjacent to the Segment B-C preferred and Yellow warbler CSC Alternative A alignments (Montgomery Watson 1995; MWD (Dendroica petechia brewsteri) 1994) Arroyo Simi near Nogales Avenue, adjacent to the Segment B-C preferred and Alternative A alignments (Montgomery Yellow-breasted chat CSC Watson 1995) (Icteria virens) Calleguas Creek, adjacent to Segment D-E1 Alt. B & C (Impact Sciences 1997) Adjacent to Arroyo Simi and Arroyo Las Posas; Segments A- B, B-C preferred and Alternative A alignments (Montgomery Loggerhead shrike CSC, AWL Watson 1995) (Lanius ludovicianus) Camarillo Regional Park, 500 feet east of Segment D-E2 Alternative A (Impact Sciences 1997) South Ormond Beach, vicinity of Segment G-H2 preferred California horned lark and Alternative B alignments (Jones and Stokes 1995). CSC (Eremophila alpestris actia) Simi Valley Landfill; 2,000 feet north of Segment A-B (Padre 2001b) Happy Camp Canyon, approximately 2 miles northeast of Coastal cactus wren Segment B-C preferred alignment (Camplorhynchus brunneicappillus CSC sandiegoense) Camarillo Regional Park, 2,500 feet southeast of Segment D-E2 Alternative A (Impact Sciences 1997) Simi Valley Landfill; 2,000 feet north of Segment A-B (Padre Southern California rufous- 2001b) crowned sparrow CSC, AWL (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) Camarillo Regional Park, adjacent to Segment D-E1 Alt. B & C (Impact Sciences 1997) Bell's sage sparrow Tierra Rejada Road, one mile south of Segment B-C CSC, AWL (Amphispiza belli belli) Alternative A (MWD 1994) Grasshopper sparrow Happy Camp Canyon, 2 miles northeast of Segment B-C SA (Ammodramus savannarum) preferred alignment (Brisby 1978) Mammals California sea lion Channel Islands Harbor and other nearshore waters of the MMPA (Zalophus californianus) project region Breeds at Mugu Lagoon, also commonly seen at Channel Harbor seal MMPA Islands Harbor and other nearshore waters of the project (Phoca vitulina) region Northern elephant seal MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Mirounga angustirostris) Northern fur seal MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Callorhinus ursinus) Dall’s porpoise MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Phocaenoides dalli) Status Codes: AWL Audubon Watch List CSC California Species of Special Concern (CDFG) MMPA Protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act P Protected under California Fish and Game Code SA Special animal (CDFG)
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Table 5.5-6. Continued Common Name Status Nearest Known Occurrence(s) (Scientific Name) Mammals (continued) Pacific white-sided dolphin MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) Northern right-whale dolphin MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Lissodelphis borealis) Common dolphin MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Delphinus delphis) Bottlenose dolphin Channel Islands Harbor and other nearshore waters of the MMPA (Tursiops truncatus) project region Risso’s dolphin MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Grampus griesus) Cuvier’s beaked whale MMPA Offshore waters of the project region (Ziphius cavirostris) Gray whale MMPA Nearshore and offshore waters of the project region (Eschrichtus robustus) Southern California saltmarsh North Ormond Beach, adjacent to Segment G-H1 Alternative shrew CSC A and Alternative A diversion structure site (Impact Sciences (Sorex ornatus salicornicus) 1995) Union Pacific railroad near Arroyo Simi and Moorpark College, adjacent to Segment B-C preferred alignment (NDDB 2001) San Diego desert woodrat CSC Union Pacific railroad near Arroyo Simi and Madera Rd., (Neotoma lepida intermedia) adjacent to Segment A-B (NDDB 2001) Camarillo Regional Park, adjacent to Segment D-E1 Alt. B & C (Impact Sciences 1997) North Ormond Beach, 2,000 feet northwest of Segment G- San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit H2 preferred alignment (Impact Sciences 1995) CSC (Lepus californicus bennettii) Arroyo Simi, adjacent to Segment B-C Alternative A (MWD 1994) American badger North of SR 118 near First Street, approximately one mile SA (Taxidea taxus) northeast of Segment A-B (Marsh 1981) Ringtail No documented sightings in the project area, but may be P (Bassariscus astutus octavus) present Status Codes: AWL Audubon Watch List CSC California Species of Special Concern (CDFG) MMPA Protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act P Protected under California Fish and Game Code SA Special animal (CDFG)
Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The southern California Evolutionary Significant Unit of steelhead was listed as endangered in 1997 by the National Marine Fisheries Service. Calleguas Creek was included in the proposed critical habitat designation published in the Federal Register on February 5, 1999 (Vol. 64, No. 24, pages 5740-5754). A fisheries study was prepared for the City of Thousand Oaks as part of the Conejo Creek Diversion Project, demonstrating that steelhead had never spawned in Calleguas Creek (or tributaries). Therefore, based on this study (in part), Calleguas Creek was deleted from the final critical habitat designation published in the Federal Register on February 16, 2000 (Vol. 65, No. 32, pages 7764-7787). Steelhead are assumed absent from the Calleguas Creek watershed for the purposes of this assessment.
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Tidewater goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi). This species was listed as endangered by USFWS in 1994 and critical habitat was designated in 2000, which did not include Calleguas Creek or Mugu Lagoon. However, USFWS proposed to remove tidewater goby populations north of Orange County from the endangered species list in 1999. This species has not been recently documented from Mugu Lagoon, but was reported from the Hueneme Drain, J Street Drain, Oxnard Industrial Drain and East Hueneme Channel (Impact Sciences 1995). California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytonii). This species was listed as threatened in 1996 by the USFWS. Calleguas Creek was not included in the final critical habitat designation published in the Federal Register on March 13, 2001 (Vol. 66, No. 49, pages 14625-14674). Field surveys were conducted for this species in 1995, including Calleguas Creek from Highway 1 to the confluence with Conejo Creek, all of Conejo Creek, and Arroyo Conejo from the Hill Canyon Treatment Plant to the confluence with Arroyo Santa Rosa. California red-legged frog was not found during these surveys (Fugro West 1995b). The highest quality habitat for California red-legged frog within the Calleguas Creek watershed occurs within Arroyo Conejo, where permanent surface water is available and habitat alteration has been less than other portions of the watershed. However, this species has not been found in Arroyo Conejo during numerous surveys conducted in Hill Canyon (Fugro West 1995b; LSA 1996; ESA 1997). In addition, surveys conducted as part of the Thousand Oaks Unit W wastewater pipeline reconstruction project in 1998 and 2000, did not find California red-legged frog in Arroyo Conejo. The lack of this species in Arroyo Conejo may be associated with a high density of introduced predators (bullfrog, crayfish, green sunfish, large-mouth bass). Therefore, California red-legged frog is assumed to be absent from the Calleguas Creek watershed. Arroyo toad (Bufo microscaphus californicus). This species was listed as endangered by USFWS in 1995 and critical habitat was designated in 2001. Arroyo toad has not been reported from Calleguas Creek watershed, and the watershed was not included in the critical habitat designation. Numerous amphibian surveys conducted in Arroyo Conejo and Arroyo Simi (see discussion under California red-legged frog) did not find this species. The nearest known location of arroyo toad is Piru Creek, 16 miles north of Simi Valley, or 10 miles north of the Calleguas Creek watershed boundary (Oak Ridge). Light-footed clapper rail (Rallus longirostris levipes). This species was listed as endangered by USFWS in 1970 and by CDFG in 1971. Critical habitat has not been established for this species. Light-footed clapper rail is an obligate salt marsh resident, generally found in cord grass (Spartina foliosa). This species occurs in Mugu Lagoon, mostly in the western arm of the Lagoon (Onuf, 1987). Since 1983, 1 to 7 pairs of light-footed clapper rail have been found each breeding season in Mugu Lagoon. Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus). This species was listed as endangered by USFWS in 1995 and critical habitat was designated in 1997. The first recent breeding reported in the region was from the Fish Hatchery near Fillmore in 2000 (along the Santa Clara River). Southwestern willow flycatcher has not been reported from the Calleguas Creek watershed, and is assumed to be absent.
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California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica). This species is listed as threatened by USFWS and as a California Species of Special Concern by CDFG. California gnatcatcher has bred just north of Moorpark since about 1995. A pair was observed in Dry Canyon in 2000, about 3 miles east of Segment A-B, but nesting was not confirmed (Jim Greaves, personal communication, 2001). Areas of California sagebrush dominated coastal sage scrub are considered suitable habitat. Least Bell’s vireo (Vireo belli pusillus). This species is listed as endangered by the USFWS and the CDFG. In Ventura County, the principal breeding population (about 60 pairs) occurs scattered along the Santa Clara River from just east of Saticoy, to east of Interstate 5 in Los Angeles County. Nesting has been documented at the Caltrans mitigation site adjacent to the Union Pacific Railroad by SR 23 (adjacent to Segment B-C Alternative A) in 1993 and 1997, but fledging of young was not confirmed. A pair of least Bell’s vireo was observed along Arroyo Las Posas by the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant (Jim Greaves, personal communication, 2001), but nesting was not observed. Another pair of this species had three young at White Oak Creek, about 7 miles east of Segment A-B, but fledging was not confirmed (Jim Greaves, personal communication, 2001). Areas of extensive riparian forest and/or riparian scrub adjacent to upland foraging habitats are considered suitable habitat. California least tern (Sterna antillarum browni). This species was listed as endangered by USFWS in 1970, but critical habitat has not been designated to date. Ormond Beach supports a breeding colony, and is an important post-breeding stopover for a large number of northern least tern breeding colonies during migration. Sections of sand dunes in the Ormond Beach area are fenced and designated least tern nesting refuges. In 2000, 73 nesting pairs were recorded at Ormond Beach and produced 60 to 65 fledglings. Designated nesting locations including those at Ormond Beach are considered a vital part of the habitat for southern breeding colonies (Impact Sciences 1995). California brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus). This species was listed as endangered by USFWS in 1970, and by CDFG in 1971. Critical habitat has not been designated to date. California brown pelican is common in the region, especially in the vicinity of Port Hueneme and Channel Islands Harbor, where they tend to follow fishing vessels and congregate around bait fish pens. Western snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus). This species was listed as threatened by USFWS in 1993 and critical habitat was designated in 1999. Ormond Beach (Port Hueneme to Arnold Road) is included as critical habitat for western snowy plover. Snowy plover nests on sandy beaches and dunes by creating a shallow depression as a nest, using driftwood, rocks, or bushes as cover, nests may also be entirely out in the open. Western snowy plovers forage along the beaches of Ventura County, and have been found nesting within the least tern preserve at Ormond Beach (Jones and Stokes 1995). Approximately 70 breeding pairs were recorded in the Ormond Beach area in 1995, which is less than half that recorded in 1989 (Powell, 1999). Belding’s savannah sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi). This species was listed as endangered by CDFG in 1974, and prefers to nest dense stands of pickleweed above the high tide elevation. Belding’s savannah sparrow occurs within salt marsh in both North and South Ormond Beach, and appears to forage primarily along drainage ditches (Impact Sciences 1995; Biosystems Analysis 1993).
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5.5.2 Environmental Consequences This document is a Program EIR/EA, due to the uncertainty regarding the precise alignment of the pipeline, the precise composition and flow rate of wastewater within the pipeline and the implementation schedule for various components. Therefore, additional environmental analysis will be required when more information is available concerning project details. The following assessment of potential biological impacts is somewhat generalized due to these uncertainties, and is based primarily upon literature research, review of aerial photographs and personal experience of Padre staff gained from preparing environmental documents for numerous other projects within the watershed. However, limited field surveys were conducted, primarily along drainages, near Ormond Beach and other areas supporting intact habitat. The pipeline alignments are defined as 300-foot-wide corridors (see Section 3.3.4), to allow for minor changes to the alignment to avoid utilities, avoid sensitive environmental resources and to provide flexibility when negotiating construction easements. Therefore, the full 300-foot-wide corridor was assessed for potential impacts to biological resources. However, the following assumptions were made regarding the location of the 75-foot-wide disturbance corridor within the 300-foot-wide assessment corridor: 1. The pipe would be located at least 20 feet away from the top of the adjacent stream bank for pipeline alignments located parallel to channelized drainages (to avoid exposure due to erosion); 2. All major stream crossings (Calleguas Creek, Revolon Slough, Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas, Conejo Creek) would be completed by tunneling, such that the disturbance corridor would exclude the bed and banks of the affected drainages; 3. Minor streams (e.g. Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon and other small drainages) would be crossed using trenching methods, such that the disturbance corridor would include the bed and banks of the affected drainages; 5.5.2.1 Significance Thresholds As Lead Agency, CMWD has adopted the following significance thresholds for the proposed project: • Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special-status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, or the National Marine Fisheries Service; • Have a substantial adverse effect on non-Corps-defined wetlands or a sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulation, or by the California Department of Fish and Game, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, or the National Marine Fisheries Service;
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• Have a substantial adverse effect on Corps-defined wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means; • Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery site; • Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan; • Conflict with any local polices or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance; and • Substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish and wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare or threatened species. 5.5.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I. This Phase consists of the portion of the pipeline system from the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility to the Ormond Beach power plant ocean outfall. However, the availability and composition of brine or wastewater from this facility is uncertain at this time. Therefore, impacts associated with ocean discharge are considered only for the entire project (Phase I and II), where project-wide assumptions were developed and a dilution analysis of the ocean discharge of wastewater was conducted. Segment F-G. This segment would mostly traverse row crops and turf farms, with no loss or disturbance of native vegetation or wildlife habitat. Special-status species located in close proximity to the alignment are limited to arroyo chub (see Tables 5.5-3 and 5.5-5). Impacts to this species would be avoided through tunneling under the drainages. However, Segment F-G includes crossing Calleguas Creek and Revolon Slough. Both drainages are channelized, but retain earthen banks (levees) and streambed. Calleguas Creek supports patches of willow scrub and freshwater marsh, which would meet the Corps, CDFG and County definition of wetlands. Revolon Slough supports disturbed wetland habitat, dominated by non-native species such as poison hemlock and cocklebur (see Figure 5.5-1). Installation of the pipeline at the crossings will require boring and jacking, or micro- tunneling methods, which includes excavating push pits on each side of the creek crossing and using a boring machine to auger a tunnel under the creek through which the pipeline would be installed. The disturbance associated with this method of installation would be temporary and would consist of clearing vegetation to excavate the push pits on either side of the crossing. The total area impacted by these two creek crossings would be approximately 0.2 acres of agricultural lands adjacent to the earthen levees. Impacts to wetlands and sensitive riparian communities would be avoided.
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Noise, dust and night lighting (if required) associated with pipeline installation at the two crossings would disturb wildlife using these riparian corridors. Such disturbance may result in reduced foraging success, reduced reproduction and increased predation risk. Disturbance would not have a substantial adverse affect because no special-status species would be affected, the area affected would be limited to about 100 linear feet of channel, and the duration of the impact would be only a few weeks. Therefore, disturbance impacts associated with creek crossings are considered less than significant. Segment G-H2. This segment would continue west along Hueneme Road past Arnold Road, turn south on Edison Road towards the Ormond Beach power plant. This Segment would terminate at a diversion structure, just northwest of the main gate to the power plant. Piping from the diversion structure would cross a tributary of the Oxnard Drain, then turn east, then south and southwest, along the eastern boundary of the Ormond Beach power plant. Upon reaching the beach, the alignment would turn northwest and parallel the beach to the Ormond Beach outfall (see Figure 5.5-2). It is expected that the 75-foot-wide disturbance corridor would be sited to avoid sensitive communities to the extent feasible. The pipeline crossing of the tributary of the Oxnard Drain may be completed using tunneling or trenching methodology. Trenching would result in the loss of about 0.1 acres of brackish marsh. Pipeline installation would affect (through trenching and storage of spoils or materials) up to 0.2 acres of southern coastal salt marsh and up to 0.9 acres of southern foredunes. Southern coastal salt marsh and brackish marsh are expected to meet the Corps, CDFG and County wetland definitions. The loss of these sensitive communities and wetlands is considered a significant impact (Impact BIO-1). The pipeline would also be located adjacent to known populations of salt marsh bird’s beak, red sand verbena, spiny rush, globose dune beetle, wandering skipper and Belding's savannah sparrow. In addition, sandy beach tiger beetle may occur within the foredunes. Direct loss of individuals and/or habitat of these special-status species, and indirect effects (dust and noise) is considered a significant impact (Impact BIO-2). Tidewater goby may occur in the tributary to the Oxnard Drain at the terminus of Edison Road, and may be adversely affected by trenching, through increases in turbidity, sedimentation-related loss of habitat and stranding. These adverse effects may result in significant impacts to this species (Impact BIO-3). Least terns and western snowy plovers may be nesting within or in close proximity to the pipeline alignment. Construction activities would remove nesting habitat, disturb nesting birds and may result in nest abandonment and loss of eggs and/or nestlings. These potential impacts are considered significant (Impact BIO-4). Migration Corridors. Pipeline installation would be conducted such that larger drainages (and more likely migration routes) would be crossed by tunneling, such that no direct impacts to wildlife movement would occur. Noise and dust associated with tunneling activities may discourage some wildlife movement, but this impact is considered less than significant due to the short duration and daytime hours of activity.
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Phase II. This Phase consists of implementation of the balance of the proposed project, including contribution of wastewater from all identified potential sources. Segment A-B. This segment would be located within the rights-of-way of Easy Street, mostly within an urbanized area (see Figure 5.5-3). However, the western portion of Segment A-B is located adjacent to buckbrush chaparral. It is expected that most of the 75- foot-wide disturbance corridor would be located within the disturbed roadside. However, due to the lack of a precise pipeline alignment, this analysis assumes the full 75-foot-wide disturbance corridor would be located within buckbrush chaparral, resulting in the loss of up to 3.4 acres. The loss of this community is considered a less than significant impact because it is not considered rare or declining. However, buckbrush chaparral supports special-status species (see Impact BIO-5). Special-status species reported from the vicinity of Segment A-B include Plummer’s mariposa lily, Catalina mariposa lily, coast live oak, coastal western whiptail, Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, and San Diego desert woodrat. These species may be directly affected by loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, mature trees protected under Section 9-1.1503 of the Simi Valley Zoning Ordinance would be removed or damaged. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant (Impact BIO-5). Segment B-C. The eastern portion of this segment (east of Collins Drive) would be located within or adjacent to the Los Angeles Avenue rights-of-way, which has been disturbed by roadway, railroad and highway (SR 118) construction (see Figure 5.5-3). Based on local topography, it is assumed the pipeline disturbance corridor would be located south of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. Pipeline installation within the eastern portion of Segment B-C would result in the loss of up to 5.5 acres of coastal sage scrub, 0.1 acres of southern riparian scrub (Alamos Canyon crossing), and 1.0 acres of arroyo willow riparian forest. Pipeline installation within the central portion of Segment B-C (Collins Drive to Hitch Blvd), would result in the loss of up to 6.0 acres of arroyo willow riparian forest and 10.3 acres of annual grassland. The western portion of Segment B-C (west of Hitch Blvd) would be located adjacent to Arroyo Simi. However, the pipeline would be located away from the channel bank, and habitat loss would be limited to 0.3 acres of arroyo willow riparian forest at the confluence with the Grimes Canyon drainage. The loss of 5.5 acres of coastal sage scrub, 7.3 acres of arroyo willow riparian forest and 0.1 acres of southern riparian scrub is considered a significant impact, because these communities are becoming rare in the region (Impact BIO-6). Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest (Arroyo Simi, Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon) are expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is considered a significant impact (Impact BIO-7).
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Special-status species which may occur in close proximity to Segment B-C include Plummer’s mariposa lily, Catalina mariposa lily, coast live oak, black walnut, western sycamore, arroyo chub, coastal western whiptail, silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, San Diego mountain kingsnake, coast patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, loggerhead shrike, coastal cactus wren, California gnatcatcher, California horned lark, Bell’s sage sparrow, grasshopper sparrow, Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, San Diego desert woodrat, San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, American badger and ringtail. These species may be directly affected by loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. In addition, mature trees protected under Section 9-1.1503 of the Simi Valley Zoning Ordinance and oak trees protected under Section 8107-25 of the Ventura County Zoning Ordinance would be removed or damaged. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant (Impact BIO-8). Segment C-D. This segment would be located adjacent to the north bank of Arroyo Las Posas (western portion of Arroyo Simi) (see Figure 5.5-4). The banks of Arroyo Las Posas are not well defined within this segment, and active flow channels would be avoided during pipeline installation. However, some loss of southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest would occur. Based on inspection of aerial photographs taken in 2000 (Airphoto USA) it is estimated that a maximum of 5.0 miles of riparian communities, or 45 acres would be affected along Segment C-D. The loss of arroyo willow riparian forest and southern riparian scrub is considered a significant impact, because these communities are becoming rare in the region (Impact BIO-9). Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest (Arroyo Las Posas and three tributaries) are expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is considered a significant impact (Impact BIO-10). Special-status species which may occur in close proximity to the Segment C-D disturbance corridor include coast live oak, black walnut, arroyo chub, silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, coast patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species may be directly affected by loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. In addition, oak trees protected under Section 8107-25 of the Ventura County Zoning Ordinance would be removed or damaged. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant (Impact BIO-11).
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Segment D-E2-E1. Segment D-E2 would be located along the west bank of Calleguas Creek, to the confluence with Conejo Creek, and then across farmland to the Lewis Road bridge (Point E2, see Figure 5.5-5). Segment E2-E1 would extend from the Calleguas Creek/Conejo Creek confluence, cross Calleguas Creek and follow the Rancho Road/Howard Road rights-of-way to Conejo Creek and follow Conejo Creek to the Plant. Calleguas Creek is channelized along this segment, and the pipeline would be installed away from the bank, such that no loss of riparian habitat would occur. The Calleguas Creek crossing would be completed by tunneling from adjacent farmland; therefore, no riparian habitat would be removed. Habitat for least Bell’s vireo is present in the vicinity of this segment, but is considered low quality due to the very narrow width of the riparian corridor and regular disturbance associated with vegetation clearing. Protocol surveys (tape playback) conducted 3,000 feet east of Point E2 (adjacent to Calleguas Creek, Camarillo Regional Park) in 1996 by Impact Sciences (1997) and by the Camrosa Water District storage ponds (adjacent to Calleguas Creek, 5,000 feet of Point E2) in 1998 by Mr. Jim Greaves did not detect this species. Therefore, least Bell’s vireo is assumed to be absent from Segment D-E2-E1. Special-status species (or suitable habitat) within or immediately adjacent to the Segment D-E2-E1 disturbance corridor include arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle, two- striped garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, pipeline installation along Conejo Creek may disturb southwestern pond turtle burrows and result in some mortality. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant (Impact BIO-12). Segment E2-F. This segment would be located along the west bank of Calleguas Creek, which is channelized along this segment, and the pipeline would be installed away from the bank, such that no loss of riparian habitat would occur (see Figure 5.5-6). Special-status species (or suitable habitat) within or immediately adjacent to the Segment E2-F disturbance corridor include arroyo chub, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow- breasted chat and ringtail. These species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant (Impact BIO- 13). Loss of Instream Flow. Table 5.4-7 of the Water Resources section indicates stream flow would be reduced because effluent (Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant and Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant) currently discharged to streams would be lost as brine to the proposed pipeline, and groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells would be reclaimed and not discharged to Arroyo Simi. The analysis is based on reasonable worst-case (dry season) conditions, existing groundwater and wastewater production rates and full implementation of the Conejo Creek Diversion Project (under construction) (10 cfs loss of stream flow). Stream flow in Arroyo Simi would be reduced by 38 percent (6.1 to 3.8 cfs) upstream of the Simi Valley WQCP, and reduced by 23 to 31 percent downstream of the Simi Valley WQCP. Stream flow in Arroyo Las Posas would be reduced by 37 to 51 percent upstream of the MWTP (Hitch Blvd). Stream flow in Conejo Creek would be reduced by 9 to 18 percent downstream of the Camarillo WRP. Stream flow in Calleguas Creek would be reduced by 3 to 7 percent at SR 1.
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The relative amount of project-related surface flow reductions is based on existing groundwater and wastewater production rates and would decrease over time as population growth occurs in the service areas of affected treatment plants, and rates of treated wastewater discharge to surface waters increase. Reduction in surface flow may result in the reduction in the area of riparian communities and wildlife habitat, and aquatic habitat. Generally, riparian habitat is established and maintained by high groundwater levels and surface flow during the wet season (November- April), which would not be substantially altered by the proposed project. However, dry season inputs of surface flow from groundwater wells and wastewater treatment plants raises local groundwater levels, which increases the availability of soil moisture to riparian plants and may lengthen the functional growing season. Substantial project-related reductions in dry season surface flow inputs may result in a decrease in area and diversity of riparian communities, as multi-layered arroyo willow, red willow and cottonwood canopies are replaced with immature arroyo willows and mulefat. In addition, dry season surface water is critical for the survival of aquatic species, including sensitive fish and reptiles; arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle and two-striped garter snake. However, determining the amount of flow reduction that would have a significant impact is very site-specific and is outside the scope of this program-level document. For the purposes of this document, flow reductions are assumed to have a significant impact by adversely affecting special-status species, wetlands, and fish and wildlife habitat (Impact BIO- 14). The riparian forests between the Simi Valley WQCP and SR 23 are the best developed (in terms of structural and species diversity) along Arroyo Simi, and a 23 to 31 percent reduction in dry season flow may result in a significant impact to sensitive riparian communities, wetlands, and riparian-dependent wildlife such as arroyo chub, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler and yellow-breasted chat. Riparian communities are less well developed downstream of Hitch Blvd; however, a 37 to 51 percent reduction in dry season flow may result in a significant impact to sensitive riparian communities, wetlands, and riparian-dependent wildlife such as arroyo chub, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler and yellow-breasted chat. Conejo Creek is channelized downstream of the Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant, with only scattered riparian vegetation. However, a 9 to 18 percent reduction in dry season flow may cause a substantial reduction in the area and quality of aquatic habitat, resulting in a significant impact to sensitive aquatic species; arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle and two- striped garter snake. Marine Impacts. As discussed in Section 5.4 (Water Resources), discharge of the pipeline to the existing outfall at the Ormond Beach power plant would result in exceedances of California Ocean Plan water quality objectives for ammonia, copper and mercury. These water quality objectives were developed to protect marine life. Therefore, exceedances of these water quality objectives would substantially degrade the quality of the marine environment and may have lethal or sublethal effects to invertebrates, fish, marine birds and marine mammals, including special-status species (California least tern, California brown pelican and marine mammals). This water quality impact to biological resources is considered significant (Impact BIO-15).
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Fish, birds and mammals would be adversely affected by project-related ocean discharge of wastewater, primarily by mercury toxicity. Mercury may cause mortality in fish, and reduce egg production, viability of sperm, frequency of hatching and survival of offspring (McIntyre 1973, McKim et al. 1976, Fjeld et al. 1998). Birds feeding on fish contaminated by mercury, such as terns, cormorants and pelicans, may suffer increased mortality and reduced reproduction (Heinz 1979). However, long-lived mammals may be most affected, by the long- term accumulation of mercury through ingestion of contaminated prey (fish and invertebrates). Species most affected would be those that may feed in close proximity to the outfall, such as California sea lion, harbor seal and bottle-nosed dolphin. Migration Corridors. Pipeline installation would be conducted such that larger drainages (and more likely migration routes) would be crossed by tunneling, such that no direct impacts to wildlife movement would occur. Noise and dust associated with tunneling activities may discourage some wildlife movement, but this impact is considered less than significant due to the short duration and daytime hours of construction activity. Smaller streams would be crossed by trenching; however, this disturbance would be limited to a short duration (about two weeks) and would be conducted during daylight hours. Since wildlife movement is concentrated during nighttime, no significant impacts to wildlife movement are expected. In addition, all pipelines would be buried, such that no barriers would be constructed. Cumulative Impacts. The Ventura Council of Governments projects that Ventura County will grow in population by 8 percent from 2001 to 2010, and by 18 percent by 2020. These population projections form the basis of the Ventura County General Plan. Most of this population growth is expected to occur in Ventura, Camarillo, Oxnard, Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks. Development projects associated with this growth may be under construction at the time the proposed project is implemented. The proposed project would incrementally contribute to construction-related impacts to special-status species, sensitive habitats and wetlands associated with these other projects, and would result in cumulatively significant impacts to these resources (Impact BIO-16). 5.5.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Segment F-G Alternative A. This segment would traverse row crops and turf farms, with no loss or disturbance of native vegetation or wildlife habitat. Special-status species located in close proximity to the alignment are limited to arroyo chub (see Tables 5.5-3 and 5.5- 5). Impacts to this species would be avoided through tunneling under the drainages. Similar to the preferred alignment, impacts to wetlands and sensitive riparian communities would be avoided through tunneling under Calleguas Creek and Revolon Slough. However, noise, dust and night lighting (if required) associated with pipeline installation at the two crossings would disturb wildlife using these riparian corridors. Such disturbance may result in reduced foraging success, reduced reproduction and increased predation risk. Disturbance- related impacts are considered less than significant because no special-status species would be affected, the area affected would be limited to about 100 linear feet of channel, and the duration of the impact would be only a few weeks.
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Segment G-H1 Alternative A. This segment would follow Perkins Road to its southern terminus, where the diversion structure would be constructed. Southern coastal salt marsh occurs west of Perkins Road and south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant, and up to 1.0 acres may be impacted by pipeline installation. This segment includes a crossing of the Oxnard Industrial Drain, which supports coastal freshwater or brackish marsh. Southern coastal salt marsh, coastal freshwater marsh and coastal brackish marsh are expected to meet the Corps, CDFG and County wetland definitions. The pipeline crossing may be completed using tunneling or trenching methodology. Trenching would result in the loss of about 0.1 acres of freshwater or brackish marsh. The loss of sensitive communities and wetlands is considered a significant impact. Tidewater goby has been reported from the Oxnard Industrial Drain and may be adversely affected by trenching, through increases in turbidity, sedimentation-related loss of habitat and stranding. Southern coastal salt marsh is considered habitat for salt marsh shrew, Belding's savannah sparrow and wandering skipper. Loss of this habitat may result in significant impacts to these species. Diversion Structure for Alternative A. The precise location of this facility has not been determined, but it would occupy an area of about 0.3 acres, south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. The diversion structure may be located in an area supporting southern coastal salt marsh, and up to 0.3 acres of this community may be affected by diversion structure construction. The loss of this sensitive community is considered a significant impact. Southern coastal salt marsh is considered habitat for salt marsh shrew and wandering skipper. Loss of this habitat may result in significant impacts to these species. Segment G-H2 Alternative B. This segment would follow Arnold Road to its southern terminus, where it crosses the Oxnard Drain (Edison Canal), and continues along the Oxnard Drain to the beach, and along the beach to the Ormond Beach power plant. Coastal brackish marsh occurs on both sides of Perkins Road north of the Oxnard Drain, and southern coastal salt marsh occurs south of the Oxnard Drain. Southern foredune (also a sensitive community) occurs south of the Ormond Beach power plant. Pipeline installation would result in the loss of up to 1.7 acres of coastal brackish marsh, 5.2 acres of coastal salt marsh and 2.8 acres of southern foredune. Southern coastal salt marsh and coastal brackish marsh are also expected to meet the Corps, CDFG and County wetland definitions. The loss of these sensitive communities and wetlands is considered a significant impact. The pipeline would also be located immediately adjacent to known populations of salt marsh bird’s beak, red sand verbena, spiny rush, globose dune beetle, wandering skipper, Belding's savannah sparrow, California least tern and western snowy plover. In addition, the Oxnard Drain is linked to Mugu Lagoon and may support tidewater goby and California brackish water snail. Sandy beach tiger beetle may occur within the foredunes. Pipeline installation activities may result in the direct loss of individuals and/or habitat of these special-status species, and cause indirect effects (dust, noise, siltation, bank erosion), which is considered a significant impact.
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Diversion Structure for Alternative B. The precise location of this facility has not been determined, but it would occupy an area of about 0.3 acres, south of the Ormond Beach power plant. The diversion structure would be located in an area supporting southern foredunes, and up to 0.3 acres of southern foredunes may be affected by diversion structure construction. The loss of this sensitive community is considered a significant impact. The diversion structure would also be located immediately adjacent to known populations of red sand verbena, globose dune beetle, California least tern and western snowy plover. Direct loss of individuals and/or habitat of these special-status species, and indirect construction-related effects (dust and noise) is considered a significant impact. Phase II. Segment B-C Alternative A. This segment would follow the northern bank of Arroyo Simi for its entire length. In general, west of SR 23, Arroyo Simi is contained by levees, and the pipeline would be installed outside the levees, preventing loss of riparian vegetation. However, east of SR 23, Arroyo Simi is not contained by levees such that up to 30 acres of riparian scrub and riparian forest may be removed during pipeline installation. The loss of these sensitive communities is considered a significant impact. Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest are expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is considered a significant impact. Special-status species which may occur in close proximity to the Segment B-C Alternative A alignment include coast live oak, black walnut, western sycamore, arroyo chub, coastal western whiptail, silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, San Diego mountain kingsnake, coast patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, loggerhead shrike, San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, American badger and ringtail. These species may be directly affected by loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. In addition, mature trees protected under Section 9-1.1503 of the Simi Valley Zoning Ordinance and oak trees protected under Section 8107-25 of the Ventura County Zoning Ordinance would be removed or damaged. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant. Segment B-C Alternative B. The eastern portion of the alignment would be the same as the preferred alignment (see Section 5.5.2.2). Pipeline installation within the central portion of this alignment (Collins Drive to Hitch Blvd) would result in the loss of 6.0 acres of arroyo willow riparian forest. The western portion of Segment B-C (west of Hitch Blvd) would be located adjacent to Los Angeles Avenue (SR 118), and cross the Grimes Canyon drainage. However, at this location, the Grimes Canyon drainage is dominated by giant reed and does not support native riparian communities. The loss of 5.5 acres of coastal sage scrub, 7.0 acres of arroyo willow riparian forest and 0.1 acres of southern riparian scrub (including portions in common with the preferred alignment) is considered a significant impact, because these communities are becoming rare in the region.
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Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest are expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is considered a significant impact. Special-status species which may occur in close proximity to Segment B-C Alternative B include Plummer’s mariposa lily, Catalina mariposa lily, coast live oak, black walnut, western sycamore, arroyo chub, coastal western whiptail, silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, San Diego mountain kingsnake, coast patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, loggerhead shrike, coastal cactus wren, California horned lark, Bell’s sage sparrow, grasshopper sparrow, Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, San Diego desert woodrat, San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, American badger and ringtail. These species may be directly affected by loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. In addition, mature trees protected under Section 9-1.1503 of the Simi Valley Zoning Ordinance and oak trees protected under Section 8107-25 of the Ventura County Zoning Ordinance would be removed or damaged. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant. Segment C-D Alternative A. This segment would be located along Los Angeles Avenue (SR 118) and Somis Road (SR 34). Vegetation along Segment C-D is limited to disturbed roadsides and row crops. However, this segment would cross five tributaries to Arroyo Las Posas; drainages both east and west of Balcolm Canyon Road, by Sand Canyon Road, by Donlon Road, and by North Street (Somis). Pipeline installation (trenching) across these drainages would result in the loss of up to 0.3 acres of southern cottonwood-willow riparian forest (drainage located 1,000 feet west of Balcolm Canyon Road), 0.5 acres of southern willow scrub, 0.2 acres of mulefat scrub and 0.2 acres of California walnut woodland (North Street). Southern cottonwood-willow riparian forest, southern willow scrub and California walnut woodland are considered sensitive communities. Southern cottonwood-willow riparian forest, southern willow scrub and mulefat scrub are also expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of sensitive communities and wetlands is considered a significant impact. Lack of natural vegetation associated with the adjacent roadway and row crops, and disturbance (roadway traffic, railroad traffic, tilling) result in poor habitat value along this alignment. Special-status species which may occur in close proximity to the Segment C-D Alternative A disturbance corridor is limited to southern California black walnut, observed in each of the five tributaries along this segment. This species is relatively common in Ventura County and does not meet the definition of rare or endangered under Section 15380 of the State CEQA Guidelines. Therefore, the loss of a few isolated southern California black walnut trees is considered a less than significant impact.
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Segment C-D Alternative B. The eastern portion of this segment would be the same as the preferred alignment; adjacent to the north bank of Arroyo Las Posas (western portion of Arroyo Simi). However, this segment would cross over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks near La Cumbre Road, leaving the Arroyo Los Posas floodplain for about 8,000 linear feet. Segment C-D Alternative B would then return to the Arroyo Las Posas floodplain for about 3,000 linear feet, then leave the floodplain to parallel the Union Pacific Railroad tracks, Upland Road, Flynn Road and Adolfo Road. The banks of Arroyo Las Posas are not well defined within this segment, and active flow channels would be avoided during pipeline installation. However, some loss of southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest would occur. Based on inspection of aerial photographs taken in 2000 (Airphoto USA) it is estimated that a maximum of 22 acres of riparian communities would be affected along Segment C-D Alternative B. The loss of arroyo willow riparian forest and southern riparian scrub is considered a significant impact, because these communities are becoming rare in the region. Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest are expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is considered a significant impact. Special-status species which may occur in close proximity to the Segment C-D Alternative B disturbance corridor include coast live oak, black walnut, arroyo chub, silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, coast patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species may be directly affected by loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. In addition, oak trees protected under Section 8107-25 of the Ventura County Zoning Ordinance would be removed or damaged. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant. Segment D-E2-E1 Alternative A. Segment D-E2 would be located along the west bank of Calleguas Creek from Adolfo Road to Pleasant Valley Road, and then along Lewis Road to Point E2. Segment E2-E1 would be located along the west bank of Calleguas Creek from the Lewis Road bridge to the confluence with Conejo Creek, and then along Conejo Creek to Point E1 (see Figure 5.5-5). The pipeline would be located away from the banks of Calleguas and Conejo Creeks, and crossings would be completed by tunneling. Therefore, no loss of riparian habitat or wetlands would occur. Special-status species expected to occur within or immediately adjacent to the Segment D-E2-E1 disturbance corridor include arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle, two- striped garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, pipeline installation along Conejo Creek may disturb southwestern pond turtle burrows and result in some mortality. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant.
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Segment D-E1 Alternative B. This segment would follow Adolfo Road, then cross Conejo Creek north of U.S. 101, follow the east bank of Conejo Creek under U.S. 101, cross to the west bank of Conejo Creek, and follow the west bank to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant. It is assumed that the E2-E1 segment of this alternative would be the same as the preferred alignment. The pipeline would be located away from the banks of Conejo Creek, and crossings would be completed by tunneling. Therefore, no loss of riparian habitat or wetlands would occur. Special-status species expected to occur within or immediately adjacent to the Segment D-E1 Alternative B disturbance corridor include arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle, two-striped garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, pipeline installation may disturb southwestern pond turtle burrows and result in some mortality. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant. Segment D-E1 Alternative C. This segment would follow Adolfo Road, Camino Ruiz and U.S. 101 to the west bank of Conejo Creek, and follow the west bank to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (see Figure 5.5-5). It is assumed that the E2-E1 segment of this alternative would be the same as the preferred alignment. The pipeline would be located away from the banks of Conejo Creek; therefore, no loss of riparian habitat or wetlands would occur. Special-status species expected to occur within or immediately adjacent to the Segment D-E1 Alternative C disturbance corridor include arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle, two-striped garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. In addition, pipeline installation may disturb southwestern pond turtle burrows and result in some mortality. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant. Segment E2-F Alternative A. This segment would be located along the east bank of Calleguas Creek, which is channelized along this segment, and the pipeline would be installed away from the bank, such that no loss of riparian habitat would occur (see Figure 5.5-6). Special-status species expected to occur within or immediately adjacent to the Segment E2-F Alternative A disturbance corridor include arroyo chub, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant. Loss of Instream Flow. Impacts of the alternative pipeline alignments would be the same as identified for the Proposed Action. Marine Impacts. Impacts of the Alternative A alignment (use of the alternative ocean outfall) are discussed in Section 5.5.2.4. Impacts of the Alternative B pipeline alignment would be the same as identified for the Proposed Action.
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Cumulative Impacts. Cumulative impacts of the alternative pipeline alignments would be the same as for the Proposed Action. 5.5.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall As discussed in Section 5.4 (Water Resources), discharge of the proposed pipeline to the existing outfall used by the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant would not result in exceedances of California Ocean Plan water quality objectives. These water quality objectives were developed to protect marine life. Therefore, the proposed project would not substantially degrade the quality of the marine environment or substantially reduce fish habitat, and is considered a less than significant impact. 5.5.2.5 No Action Alternative The no action alternative would have none of the short-term adverse impacts to biological resources associated with construction and installation of the pipeline, or long-term impacts associated with ocean discharge of wastewater. However, TDS concentrations within surface waters may continue to increase, and may ultimately reach levels adverse to aquatic life, including special-status species such as arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle and two- striped garter snake. 5.5.3 Mitigation Measures 5.5.3.1 Proposed Action Phase I. The following measures shall be implemented to minimize impacts to special-status species, sensitive communities, wetlands and wildlife habitat. MM BIO-1. Breeding bird surveys shall be conducted by CMWD in May and June prior to the initiation of construction at all proposed creek crossings and pipeline segments adjacent to creeks. Surveys shall include all suitable habitat within 500 feet of identified impact areas. No heavy equipment shall be operated within 200 feet of any active nest of migratory bird species. MM BIO-2. Habitat mapping shall be conducted at all creek crossings and near the Ormond Beach power plant by a qualified biologist prior to finalizing engineering design, and final pipeline alignments shall be selected to avoid native vegetation and sensitive communities to the extent feasible. MM BIO-3. The disturbance corridor (impact areas) shall be reduced in width to 40 feet adjacent to sensitive communities and wetlands, where alternate trench spoil storage and pipe lay-down areas are available.
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MM BIO-4. Impact areas shall be developed and designated as part of MM BIO-2 and MM BIO–3, and shall be staked in the field by a surveyor, in coordination with CMWD and the construction contractor, immediately prior to the initiation of construction. Construction activities shall be monitored in the vicinity of sensitive habitats and known locations of special- status species, to ensure no disturbance occurs outside the staked impact area. The monitor shall be designated by the construction contractor and approved by CMWD and have completed coursework in biology and conservation. The monitor shall work with CMWD staff and the construction contractor to modify the impact area as needed to minimize impacts and meet the goals of the project. MM BIO-5. Botanical surveys shall be conducted at all creek crossings and near the Ormond Beach power plant prior to selecting final pipeline alignments to determine the presence and distribution of special-status plant species within designated impact areas. Botanical surveys shall be conducted by a qualified botanist during known flowering periods of plant species listed in Table 5.5-3 and focus on areas that would be disturbed by the project. If special-status plant species would be adversely affected by the project, mitigation measures shall include one or more of the following: • Modifying the pipeline alignment or diversion structure location to avoid or minimize impacts; • Preservation of the majority of the population through a permanent conservation easement; and • Transplanting individual plants (perennials) or seeds (annuals) from impact areas to restoration areas. MM BIO-6. Focused wildlife surveys shall be conducted at all creek crossings and near the Ormond Beach power plant prior to the initiation of construction by a qualified biologist to identify the presence and distribution of special-status species. Survey methodology developed by CDFG and USFWS shall be followed for all threatened or endangered species. Mitigation measures shall be developed to avoid, minimize or offset impacts to the extent feasible, and may include: • Modifying the pipeline alignment or diversion structure location to avoid or minimize impacts; • Limit construction activities to the non-breeding season; • Diverting water from the Simi Valley dewatering wells to Arroyo Simi to maintain habitat for riparian-dependent and aquatic special-status species; • Relocating aquatic species (arroyo chub, pond turtle and two-striped garter snake) during dewatering (if needed) or other instream construction activities; and • Reducing population levels of invasive species (giant reed, crayfish, bullfrogs, large-mouth bass) that reduce habitat value for special-status species.
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MM BIO-7. Wetland delineations shall be conducted by CMWD during the spring prior to the initiation of construction of all trenched stream crossings, and salt marsh and brackish marsh within designated impact areas. The pipeline alignment shall be modified to avoid wetlands to the extent feasible. MM BIO-8. A restoration plan shall be developed by CMWD to restore pre- construction topography, and replace wetlands, native plant communities and wildlife habitat affected by project construction. Affected areas shall be returned to pre-construction conditions, or better, in terms of native plant cover, species composition and diversity. The plan shall be prepared in coordination with trustee agencies and include erosion control methods and materials, specific planting areas, plant palettes, sources of plant material, propagation methods, planting methods, monitoring and maintenance methods and success criteria. The restoration plan shall be completed and approved by regulatory agencies (if required) prior to the initiation of construction. Restoration shall be implemented within one year of the completion of construction. MM BIO-9. The pipeline crossing of the tributary of the Oxnard Drain shall be completed by tunneling to avoid impacts to tidewater goby, brackish marsh and wetlands. MM BIO-10. Construction work within or adjacent to the dunes at the Ormond Beach power plant shall be conducted between September 1 and March 1 to avoid the breeding season of California least tern and western snowy plover. However, if construction work must be completed during this time period, the following measure shall be implemented: • No more than one week prior to the initiation of work near the dunes, an intensive survey of the work area shall be conducted by a biologist approved by USFWS to determine the presence/absence of active nests or foraging activities by California least terns and western snowy plovers. If active nests are found, all areas within 500 feet of the nest site(s) shall be clearly marked and avoided during construction. No disturbance shall occur within this protective area until all birds have fledged, as confirmed by the biologist. Phase II. Measures MM BIO-1 through MM BIO-8 are applicable to Phase II. However, habitat mapping and field surveys (MM BIO-2, -5 and –6) shall be conducted within impact areas supporting native plant communities, riparian vegetation or windrows. In addition, the following measure is provided to minimize impacts to marine resources. MM BIO-11. CMWD shall coordinate and cooperate with Reliant Energy in completing sampling and analysis of water quality, fish and macroinvertebrates, mussels, benthic infauna and sediments required by the Ormond Beach National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. CMWD shall analyze this data on an annual basis to determine if the project’s wastewater contribution has caused or contributed to any violations of the standards or objectives of the 2001 California Ocean Plan. If violations are detected and can be reasonably attributed to the project’s wastewater contribution, CMWD shall terminate discharge to the ocean until a remedy can be developed.
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5.5.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Alternative A. Measures MM BIO-1 through MM BIO-8 provided for the Proposed Action are applicable to this Alternative. In addition, the following measure is provided: MM BIO-12. The pipeline crossing of the Oxnard Industrial Drain (Segment G-H) shall be completed by tunneling to avoid impacts to brackish marsh, wetlands, tidewater goby and California brackish water snail. Alternative B. Measures MM BIO-1 through MM BIO-8, and MM BIO-10 provided for the Proposed Action are applicable to this Alternative. In addition, the following measure is provided: MM BIO-13. The pipeline crossing of the Oxnard Drain (Segment G-H) shall be completed by tunneling to avoid impacts to brackish marsh, wetlands, tidewater goby and California brackish water snail. Phase II. Alternative A. Measures MM BIO-1 through MM BIO-8 provided for the Proposed Action are applicable to this Alternative. Alternatives B and C. Measures MM BIO-1 through MM BIO-8, and MM BIO-11 provided for the Proposed Action are applicable to these Alternatives. 5.5.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No significant impacts associated with use of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall were identified. Therefore, mitigation is not necessary. 5.5.4 Residual Impacts 5.5.4.1 Proposed Action Phase I. Mitigation measures are provided to minimize impacts to sensitive communities, wetlands and special-status species, through avoidance and restoration. All residual Phase I impacts (Impact BIO-1 through BIO-4) would be less than significant. Phase II. Mitigation measures are provided to minimize impacts to sensitive communities, wetlands and special-status species, through avoidance, restoration and replacement. Residual Phase II impacts (BIO-5 through BIO-13, and BIO-16) would be less than significant.
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However, reduction in dry season surface flow (Impact BIO-14) may result in the loss of wetlands, habitat for special-status species and ultimately, special-status species themselves. Additional analysis would be required at the time more detailed information regarding the potential volume and timing of project-related surface flow reduction is available. It is important to realize that wastewater and poor quality groundwater discharged to streams would be reclaimed for other uses (termination of stream disposal) in the absence of the proposed project, what is unclear at this time is the effect of the proposed project in accelerating this process. Therefore, in the absence of site-specific hydrologic analyses, residual impacts to biological resources may be significant. The residual impact of BIO-15 is discussed under Impacts WR-1 and WR-2 in Section 5.4 (Water Resources). 5.5.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Alternatives A and B. Mitigation measures are provided to minimize impacts to sensitive communities, wetlands and special-status species, through avoidance and restoration. All residual Phase I impacts would be less than significant. Phase II. Alternatives A, B and C. Mitigation measures are provided to minimize impacts to sensitive communities, wetlands and special-status species, through avoidance, restoration and replacement. Excluding surface water quantity impacts, all residual Phase II impacts would be less than significant. However, reduction in dry season surface flow may result in the loss of wetlands, habitat for special-status species and ultimately, special-status species themselves. Additional analysis would be required at the time more detailed information regarding the potential volume and timing of project-related surface flow reduction is available. It is important to realize that wastewater and poor quality groundwater discharged to streams would be reclaimed for other uses (termination of stream disposal) in the absence of the proposed project, what is unclear at this time is the effect of the proposed project in accelerating this process. Therefore, in the absence of site-specific hydrologic analyses, residual impacts may be significant. Alternative B. The residual impact of ocean water quality degradation is discussed under Impacts WR-1 and WR-2 in Section 5.4 (Water Resources). 5.5.5 Federal Findings The following discussion is not required under CEQA, but is provided as part of project compliance with NEPA and associated environmental laws and policies.
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5.5.5.1 Migratory Bird Treaty Act The focus of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 was the “Establishment of a Federal prohibition, unless permitted by regulations, to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, attempt to take, capture or kill, possess, offer for sale, sell, offer to purchase, purchase, deliver for shipment, ship, cause to be shipped, deliver for transportation, transport, cause to be transported, carry, or cause to be carried by any means whatever, receive for shipment, transportation or carriage, or export, at any time, or in any manner, any migratory bird, included in the terms of this Convention for the protection of migratory birds, or any part, nest or egg of any such bird” (16 USC 703). A list of migratory birds protected under the Act is contained in 50 CFR 10.13, and includes hundreds of game and non-game species. Dozens of these species nest within the watershed, and many could nest within or in close proximity to project components. Federal agencies are required to avoid or minimize adverse effects of their actions on migratory birds, and should take active steps to protect migratory birds and their habitat. The Act clearly prevents the removal of trees containing active nests of migratory bird species, such that vegetation removal associated with pipeline installation may result in the loss of eggs or nestlings. Implementation of mitigation measure MM BIO-1 would be considered an active step to protect migratory birds and comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. 5.5.5.2 Endangered Species Act This document may serve as the Biological Assessment for the proposed project as required under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. The Biological Assessment provides sufficient information for the Federal lead agency and the USFWS to determine the potential to affect threatened or endangered species, based on one of three possible findings for each species potentially affected: • No effect: the proposed action will not affect the listed species or critical habitat; • Not likely to adversely affect: effects of the listed species are expected to be discountable (extremely unlikely to occur), insignificant (minimal impact without take), or beneficial; and • Likely to adversely affect: adverse effect may occur as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action, and the effect is not discountable, insignificant or beneficial. Saltmarsh Birds Beak. This species has been reported from the vicinity of the Ormond Beach power plant and may occur within or adjacent to the Phase I pipeline alignment. However, implementation of mitigation measure MM BIO-5 would prevent impacts to this species through relocation of the pipeline. Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect saltmarsh birds beak. Steelhead. Based on lack of credible evidence of current or historic steelhead presence in Calleguas Creek (or tributaries), steelhead are assumed absent from the Calleguas Creek watershed. Therefore, the proposed action or alternatives would have no effect on steelhead.
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Tidewater goby. This species is known from Oxnard Industrial Drain, and would be adversely affected by pipeline trenching (Segment G-H Alternative A). Tidewater goby may also occur in the Oxnard Drain, and may be adversely affected by pipeline installation (Segment G-H Proposed Action and Alternative B). However, impacts to these species would be prevented by the implementation of mitigation measures MM BIO-10, BIO-12 and BIO-13. Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect tidewater goby. California red-legged frog. Based on lack of evidence of this species following repeated surveys of the highest quality habitat, this species is assumed to be absent from the project area (Calleguas Creek watershed). Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives would have no effect on California red-legged frog. Arroyo toad. Based on lack of evidence of this species following repeated surveys of the highest quality habitat, this species is assumed to be absent from the project area (Calleguas Creek watershed). Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives would have no effect on arroyo toad. Light-footed clapper rail. This species occurs in Mugu Lagoon, at least two miles from the nearest project component. However, the termination of discharge from the Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant would result in a reduction of dry season surface flow into Mugu Lagoon of up to 7 percent (see Table 5.4-7). Light-footed clapper rail is an obligate salt marsh resident, generally found in cord grass. Cord grass dominates low marsh environments (below mean higher high water) (Barbour and Major 1988) and typically in areas with high levels of tidal flushing (Zedler 1982). Therefore, habitat for clapper rail appears to more dependent on tidal influence and not freshwater inflow during the dry season. Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect light-footed clapper rail. Southwestern willow flycatcher. This species has not been reported from the project area (Calleguas Creek watershed), and is assumed to be absent. Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives would have no effect on southwestern willow flycatcher. California gnatcatcher. Known populations of this species occur about 0.5 miles north of Segment B-C. The preferred alignment of Segment B-C would result in the loss of up to 5.5 acres of marginal habitat (along Los Angeles Avenue) for California gnatcatcher. However, implementation of mitigation measure MM BIO-6 would result in the identification of California gnatcatcher in the vicinity of Segment B-C, and modification of the alignment to avoid this species. Locating the pipeline alignment immediately adjacent to Los Angeles Avenue is expected to prevent impacts to California gnatcatcher. Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect California gnatcatcher.
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Least Bell’s vireo. This species sporadically occurs along Segment B-C of the preferred and Alternative A alignments and could also occur along Segment C-D. Pipeline installation (particularly along Segment B-C Alternative A) may result in loss of habitat and reduced nesting success for least Bell’s vireo. However, implementation of mitigation measure MM BIO-6 would result in the identification of least Bell’s vireo populations, modification of pipeline alignments to avoid this species and prohibition of construction work in the vicinity of active nests. Therefore, Phase I of the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect least Bell’s vireo. However, in Phase II, up to 38 percent reduction in dry season surface flow upstream of the Simi Valley WQCP may result in a reduction in suitable habitat for this species. Therefore, additional analysis and consultation with USFWS would be required for Phase II to determine if a take would occur. California least tern. Pipeline installation (Phase I, Segment G-H Proposed Action and Alternative B) may result in direct adverse effects on breeding of this species at Ormond Beach. However, mitigation measure MM BIO-10 would minimize these effects, such that the Phase I of the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect California least tern. However, in Phase II, ocean disposal of wastewater may result in concentrations of ammonia, copper and mercury that exceed California Ocean Plan water quality objectives. Mercury may accumulate in prey fish such as northern anchovy and may adversely affect California least tern. Elevated mercury concentrations in tissues of the common tern in Long Island appear correlated to abnormal feather loss (Gochfeld 1980). Experiments conducted on common tern in New Jersey indicate doses of mercury reduce weight gain and disrupt feeding of chicks (Burger and Gochfeld 1985). Additional sampling of source mercury concentrations is needed to determine the potential for adverse effects (see MM WR-1 in Section 5.4). Therefore, additional analysis and consultation with USFWS would be required for Phase II to determine if a take would occur. California brown pelican. This species forages in the ocean near Ormond Beach; however, Phase I construction activities would be sufficiently distant that no effect is expected. However, Phase II ocean disposal of wastewater would result in concentrations of ammonia, copper and mercury that exceed California Ocean Plan water quality objectives. Mercury may accumulate in prey fish such as northern anchovy and may adversely affect California brown pelican. Additional sampling of source mercury concentrations is needed to determine the potential for adverse effects (see MM WR-1 in Section 5.4). Therefore, additional analysis and consultation with USFWS would be required for Phase II to determine if a take would occur. Western snowy plover. Pipeline installation (Phase I, Segment G-H Proposed Action and Alternative B) may result in direct effects on breeding and foraging of this species at Ormond Beach. However, mitigation measure MM BIO-10 would minimize these effects, such that the Phase I of the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect western snowy plover. Western snowy plover does not forage offshore, or near the vicinity of the dilution plume of the Ormond Beach ocean outfall. Therefore, no indirect impacts associated with reduced water quality effects on prey are expected. Therefore, Phase II of the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect western snowy plover.
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Belding’s savannah sparrow. This species occurs within salt marsh and may be impacted by installation of Segment G-H. However, implementation of mitigation measure MM BIO-6 would result in the identification of areas used by Belding’s savannah sparrow, modification of pipeline alignments to avoid loss of foraging habitat and prohibition of construction work in the vicinity of active nests. Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives are not likely to adversely affect Belding’s savannah sparrow. 5.5.5.3 Executive Order 11990 This Order requires Federal agencies to “… avoid to the extent possible the long- and short-term adverse impacts associated with the destruction or modification of wetlands and to avoid direct or indirect support of new construction in wetlands whenever there is a practicable alternative…”. The proposed action and alternatives would avoid most construction in wetlands by tunneling under major drainages, and avoid long-term impacts by burying pipelines in wetlands and restoring wetlands over the pipeline. However, the project-related reduction in dry season surface flow, particularly in Arroyo Simi, may result in long-term adverse impacts to wetlands. Mitigation measures (MM BIO-6, BIO-7, WR-3) have been provided to offset potential losses to the extent feasible, and no practicable alternative exists to dispose of brine without loss of existing dry season surface flow. Therefore, the proposed action and alternatives comply with Executive Order 11990. 5.5.5.4 Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act Section 2 of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1958 states that fish and wildlife conservation shall receive equal consideration with other project purposes and will be coordinated with other features of water resources development projects. Mr. David Curtis of Reclamation has made preliminary contacts with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service regarding threatened or endangered species that may be affected by the proposed action or alternatives. Mr. Curtis received a letter from National Marine Fisheries Service dated September 6, 2001, stating that the Federally endangered southern steelhead (or its critical habitat) does not occur within the Calleguas Creek watershed. Reclamation also received a species list for the subject project from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service dated October 17, 2001, as required by Section 7c of the Endangered Species Act.
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5.5.5.5 Marine Mammal Protection Act The primary goals of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) are to maintain animal stocks at optimum sustainable population (OSP) levels, restore depleted stocks to OSP levels, and reduce incidental mortality and serious injury to insignificant levels. It is unlawful for any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States or any vessel or other conveyance subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to “take” any marine mammal on the high seas. “Take” is defined to include harassment as well as hunting, killing, and capturing. The 1994 amendments to the MMPA further define harassment as “any act of pursuit, torment, or annoyance which has the potential” to (A) “injure a marine mammal or marine mammal stock in the wild”, or (B) “disturb a marine mammal or marine mammal stock in the wild by causing disruption of behavioral patterns including, but not limited to, migration, breathing, nursing, breeding, feeding, or sheltering.” Sections 101 and 102 of the MMPA prohibit intentional killing or harassment of marine mammals, but allow incidental contact in the course of normal vessel operations. The proposed project would not result in any take of marine mammals; therefore, it is consistent with the MMPA.
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5.6 AGRICULTURE 5.6.1 Affected Environment Ventura County agriculture averages gross dollar sales of over one billion annually and employs between 17,000 and 25,000 people. Approximately 100,000 acres in the southern portion of the County are devoted to agricultural production. Ventura County agriculture focuses on production of citrus, cut flowers and nursery products as well as vegetables and field crops. Agriculture has become the leading industry in the County. 5.6.1.1 Topography The alignment of the proposed pipeline system lies almost entirely within the Calleguas Creek watershed, extending approximately 32 miles from its upstream end in the City of Simi Valley to its downstream terminus near Ormond Beach in the City of Oxnard. The pipeline system passes through the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo and Oxnard, and portions of unincorporated Ventura County. From the western boundary of the City of Moorpark to near the pipeline’s terminus in the City of Oxnard, much of the proposed alignment traverses farmlands of various designations (see Figures 5.6-1 through 5.6-6). Phase I consists of pipeline segments linking the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF) (Point F) to the Ormond Beach power plant (Point H2 of Figure 5.6-2). The Camrosa WRF is located at an elevation of 50 feet at the base of Round Mountain (elev. 554 feet), on the southern bank of Long Grade Canyon creek, approximately 1,500 feet southeast of Calleguas Creek. From the Camrosa WRF, the proposed alignment crosses under Calleguas Creek, and heads west along the Hueneme Road rights-of-way across the Oxnard Plain. The Oxnard Plain is a broad alluvial terrace that was formed over geologic time by the Santa Clara River and Calleguas Creek. From the west bank of Calleguas Creek, both the preferred alignment and the alternative alignment traverse the relatively flat Oxnard Plain, which descends at an average elevation of approximately of 3 feet per mile (from an elevation of 29 feet to sea level). Much of the Oxnard Plain is considered important farmland of various designations (See Section 5.6.1.3 below). Both the Ormond Beach power plant (the preferred alignment and Alternative B terminus, Point H2), and the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant (Alternative A terminus, Point H1) are located at or near sea level. Phase II consists of pipeline segments beginning at the Simi Valley dewatering wells (Point A), and terminating at the Camrosa WRF (Point F). Segment A-B begins at the Simi Valley dewatering wells at an elevation of approximately 720 feet. The Simi Valley dewatering wells are located approximately 1,000 feet north of Arroyo Simi, a perennial stream and tributary of Arroyo Las Posas. The proposed alignment parallels Chain Drive towards the south, then heads west along Easy Street, and finally turns south again to the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant (Simi Valley WQCP) (Point B). The Simi Valley WQCP is located at an elevation of 660 feet on the north bank of Arroyo Simi. Segment A-B is not located within important farmlands.
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Segment B-C exits the Simi Valley WQCP and is generally located at similar elevations as Arroyo Simi and its adjacent alluvial floodplains. Arroyo Simi (and downstream, Arroyo Las Posas) descends at an average rate of approximately 32 feet per mile. This elevation drop is essentially the same for the proposed pipeline alignment except at locations where the alignment dips in elevation to cross underneath the streambed. Segment B-C crosses through the gently sloping alluvial floodplain within the City of Moorpark, and ends at the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant (MWTP) (Point C). The MWTP is located at an elevation of 390 feet on the north bank of Arroyo Las Posas. A majority of Segment B-C is located outside any important farmlands. However, the western portion of the City of Moorpark is considered important farmland of various designations and is intersected by the proposed pipeline alignment. Segment C-D exits the MWTP and lies at or near the elevation of the upper banks of Arroyo Las Posas (and downstream of Upland Road, Calleguas Creek). This segment descends Los Posas Valley at an average rate of 33 feet per mile, which enters the gradually widening Oxnard Plain. Segment C-D ends at the intersection of Adolfo Road and Calleguas Creek at an elevation of 170 feet. The majority of Segment C-D is located within or near important farmlands. Segment D-E continues to descend the Oxnard Plain from Adolfo Road, where the preferred alignment and three alternatives split apart and then regroup at the intersection of Lewis Road and Calleguas Creek (Point E2). On average, these alignments descend the Oxnard Plain at a rate of 20 feet per mile. Point E2 is located at an elevation of 60 feet. A majority of these alignments are located within or near important farmlands. Segment E-F parallels Calleguas Creek and connects with the Phase I pipeline near the Camrosa WRF (Point F). The topography of this segment descends at an average rate of 19 feet per mile, and is essentially all within or adjacent to important farmlands. 5.6.1.2 Soils The proposed pipeline alignment traverses several soil series on Prime farmland or farmland of Statewide Importance. Within the Phase I project area, Hueneme, Camarillo, and to a lesser extent Pacheco soils series represent important farmland soils. Within the Phase II portion of the project, Hueneme, Camarillo, Pico, Mocho, Metz, and to a lesser extent, Anacapa, Pacheco, Garretson, Sorrento, Salinas, and Cropley soil series represent important farmland soils. These soils were classified by Edwards, et. al. (1970) and are described below. The Camarillo series consists of poorly drained sandy loams and loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 2 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 200 feet above msl. These soils are primarily used for production of vegetables and lemons. The Hueneme series consists of poorly drained loamy sands and sandy loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 2 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 250 feet above msl. These soils are used for production of vegetables, lemons, strawberries, and field crops. The Pacheco series consists of poorly drained silty clay loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 2 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 100 feet above msl. These soils are primarily used for production of vegetables, lemons, and field crops.
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The Pico series consists of well-drained and somewhat excessively drained calcareous sandy loams and loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 800 feet above msl. These soils are used for vegetables, citrus crops, field crops, and walnuts. The Mocho series consists of well-drained loams, gravelly loams, and clay loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 100 feet to 1,000 feet above msl. These soils are used for vegetables, citrus crops, avocados, field crops, and walnuts. The Metz series consists of somewhat excessively drained, calcareous, loamy sands and loamy fine sands 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 1,000 feet above msl. These soils are used for vegetable, strawberries, avocados, walnuts, citrus crops, and field crops. The Anacapa series consists of well-drained sandy loams and gravelly sandy loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 500 feet above msl. These soils are mainly used for vegetables and citrus crops. The Garretson series consists of well-drained loams and gravelly loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 1,000 feet. These soils are used for vegetables, field crops, citrus crops, avocados, and walnuts. The Sorrento series consists of well-drained loams and silty clay loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 1,700 feet. These soils are used for vegetables, field crops, citrus crops, avocados, and walnuts. The Salinas series consists of well-drained clay loams 60 inches or more deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 1,000 feet. These soils are used for vegetables, field crops, citrus crops, and walnuts. The Cropley series consists of well-drained clays 60 or more inches deep. Slopes range from 0 to 9 percent, with elevations from 25 feet to 800 feet. These soils are used for citrus crops, vegetables, and field crops. 5.6.1.3 Agricultural Viability The Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program implemented by the California Department of Conservation has classified farmland as "Prime," "Statewide Importance,” "Unique" and "Local Importance”. The basis for this classification is primarily the Soil Survey, Ventura Area, California (Edwards et al., 1970). "Prime" farmlands are defined as farmland with the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long-term production of agricultural crops. This land has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. Land must have been used for production of irrigated crops at some time during the four years prior to the most recent mapping date (1998). Agricultural lands supporting the Hueneme, Pico, Mocho, Metz, Anacapa, Garretson, Sorrento, Salinas, and Cropley soil series are considered Prime farmland.
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Farmlands of "Statewide Importance” are lands similar to “Prime” but with minor shortcomings, such as greater slopes or less soil moisture-holding capacity. Land must have been used for production of irrigated crops at some time during the four years prior to the most recent mapping date (1998). Agricultural lands supporting the Camarillo and Pacheco soil series are considered farmlands of Statewide Importance. "Unique" farmlands are other lands of lesser quality soils used for production of the State’s leading agricultural crops. This land is usually irrigated, but may include nonirrigated orchards or vineyards. Land must have been used for production of crops at some time during the four years prior to the most recent mapping date (1998). Farmlands of “Local Importance” include dryland farming and non-irrigated Prime Farmlands or Farmlands of Statewide Importance. Most of the farmlands adjacent to the proposed pipeline alignment are in row crop or turf production. Table 5.6-1 reports the total value for all crops grown in Ventura County in recent years. Prime, Statewide Importance, Unique, and Local Importance farmlands located adjacent to the pipeline alignment are mapped on Figure 5.6-1 through 5.6-6. The proposed pipeline construction would occur mainly within Prime and Statewide Importance farmlands, and to a lesser extent, Unique and Local Importance farmlands.
Table 5.6-1 Value of Ventura County Crops (in million $) CROP 1998 1999 2000 Fruit and nut crops 470.5 571.1 473.7 Vegetable crops 291.6 296.8 357.9 Livestock & poultry 3.1 2.4 2.7 Apiary products 0.4 0.4 0.8 Nursery stock 125.2 139.7 156.1 Cut flowers 36.8 40.9 48.8 Field crops 5.8 4.2 3.8 Timber 0.1 0.1 0.1 Biological control agents 3.6 3.5 3.3 Total $937.1 $1,059.1 $1,047.1 Source: Annual Crop Report 2000 (Ventura County Agricultural Commissioners Office)
5.6.1.4 Regulatory Environment Important Farmlands Inventory (IFI). The Important Farmlands Inventory (IFI) system is used by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to map and classify lands that have agricultural value. This system divides farmland into classes based upon soil type and the productive capability of the land. These classes are similar to California’s Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program described above. The County of Ventura uses this system to inventory agricultural lands.
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Figure 5.6-1. Farmlands in the Vicinity of the Project Site (click to view)
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Figure 5.6-2. Farmlands in the Vicinity of the Project Site (click to view)
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Figure 5.6-3. Farmlands in the Vicinity of the Project Site (click to view)
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Figure 5.6-4. Farmlands in the Vicinity of the Project Site (click to view)
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Figure 5.6-5. Farmlands in the Vicinity of the Project Site (click to view)
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Figure 5.6-6. Farmlands in the Vicinity of the Project Site (click to view)
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Ventura County Programs. Ventura County has adopted four programs to preserve farmland: • Agricultural land use designation establishing a 40 acre minimum parcel size and Agriculture-Exclusive zoning; • Greenbelt agreements to prevent urban encroachment; • Land Conservation Act (LCA) contracts to provide property tax reductions as an incentive to maintain agricultural use; and • Participation in water resources development and conservation programs to ensure long-term water availability for agriculture. General Plan policies relative to farmland protection include the following: Policy 1.6.2.1 Discretionary development located on land designated as Prime or Statewide Importance shall be planned and designed to remove as little land from agricultural production as possible and minimize impacts on topsoil. Policy 1.6.2.2 Hillside agricultural grading shall be regulated by the Public Works Agency through the Hillside Erosion Control Ordinance. Policy 1.6.2.3 LCA contracts shall be encouraged on irrigated farmlands. Policy 1.6.2.4 The Public Works Agency shall plan transportation capital improvements so as to mitigate impacts to important farmlands to the extent feasible. Policy 1.6.2.5 The County shall preserve agricultural land by retaining and expanding the existing Greenbelt Agreements and encouraging the formation of additional Greenbelt Agreements. Policy 1.6.2.6 Discretionary development adjacent to Agriculture-designated lands shall not conflict with agricultural use of those lands. Greenbelt Agreements. Several cities in Ventura County, the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) and the County have adopted greenbelt agreements between jurisdictions to further the objectives of the County’s Guidelines for Orderly Development by preserving agriculture and open space between urban areas. The underlying purpose of a greenbelt is to establish a mutual agreement between cities regarding the limit of urban growth for each city. Annexation is discouraged within greenbelts. Any change to those boundaries would require mutual consent between the parties of the agreement (i.e., cities, County and/or LAFCO). Within the project area, Ventura County and several of the cities mentioned above have entered into greenbelt agreements for numerous parcels. These agreements have established a policy of non-annexation and retention of agricultural land and open space within parts of Ventura County.
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Land Conservation Act Contracts. A primary tool to preserve farmlands is the California Land Conservation Act (LCA) or Williamson Act contract program. Under the Act, landowners may voluntarily enter into a long-term contract (10 or 20 years) to maintain their property in agriculture or open space in exchange for reduced property tax assessment. The term of an LCA contract is generally 9 years, and automatically renews itself for another 10- year-period unless a Notice of Non-Renewal is filed. Since its inception in 1962, the program has been the backbone of agricultural preservation efforts statewide. Several LCA Contracts have been established within the project area. 5.6.2 Environmental Consequences 5.6.2.1 Significance Thresholds For the purposes of this project, CMWD has adopted the following significance thresholds developed by Ventura County (2000). Permanent loss of agricultural soils on the project site is considered a significant project-specific impact if any of the following thresholds are equaled or exceeded. Prime/Statewide 5 acres Unique 10 acres Local 15 acres Loss of agricultural soils on the project site is considered a significant cumulative impact if any of the following thresholds are equaled or exceeded. Prime/Statewide 1 acres Unique 2 acres The project would have a significant impact if it would permanently: • Adversely affect the quantity or quality of water used for agricultural production; • Substantially impair the productivity of adjacent agricultural areas; • Result in the introduction of or a substantial increase in pests and/or disease in nearby agricultural areas; or • Pose substantial land use incompatibilities with adjacent property currently in or suitable for agricultural production. 5.6.2.2 Proposed Action Pipeline installation would generally require an easement to be purchased from property owners for construction and maintenance. Agricultural crops may, depending on the crop and season, require removal and reimbursement within the maximum 75-foot-wide disturbance corridor.
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Project impacts to agricultural resources may include temporary loss of access and production during the construction period, which would vary from several weeks to several months at any one location. Construction of permanent access roads would not be required within farmland along the temporary or permanent easements of the proposed pipeline system. Instead, existing access roads would be used, and compatible agricultural operations would be allowed to continue within the permanent easement overlying the pipeline rights-of-way, resulting in no permanent loss of farmlands. Project construction specifications would require stockpiling topsoil during pipeline installation and replacement over the pipeline, preserving these soils for agricultural use. Phase I. Loss of Important Farmlands. Project plans were overlaid on Important Farmland Maps obtained from the California Department of Conservation to determine the loss or temporary disturbance of important farmlands. The following discussion describes the types of farmlands present within the Phase I portion of the project area, and the total length and area of farmlands that would be affected in the short-term by project activities. Table 5.6-2 provides estimates of temporary impacts for Phase I of preferred pipeline alignment.
Table 5.6-2. Important Farmlands Along the Phase I Pipeline Alignment
Segment Prime Statewide Unique Local Total Farmland F-G 14,700 18,700 0 0 33,400 G-H 2,050 4,450 0 0 6,500 Total (ft) 16,750 23,150 0 0 39,900 Area (acres)1 28.8 39.9 0 0 68.7 1Based on 75-foot wide temporary construction easement
Approximately 39,900 feet of the 45,600-foot-long corridor for Phase I are adjacent to Prime farmlands or farmlands of Statewide Importance (Figures 5.6-1 and 5.6-2). The proposed project may result in the temporary disturbance of up to 28.8 acres of Prime farmland and 39.9 acres of Statewide Importance farmland along the Phase I corridor. No farmlands are considered of “Unique” or “Local Importance” occur along the preferred alignment. Due to the short period of disturbance (and associated loss of production) at any single location (a few weeks) and the preservation of topsoil, impacts to important farmlands are considered less than significant. Loss of farmland in Phase I would be limited to 0.34 acres, associated with the preferred diversion structure site. However, this land has been designated “Developed” on the Important Farmland Maps. This site is located adjacent to Edison Road, and conversion of this site to non-agricultural uses would not preclude continuing production on surrounding farmlands. Therefore, loss of agricultural land is considered a less than significant impact. Greenbelt Agreements. All disturbance to farmlands would be temporary, and agricultural production would continue over the buried pipeline. Therefore, all open space under the Greenbelt Agreements established within the project area would be retained with no changes in their boundaries. There would be no project-specific impacts to greenbelts.
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Land Conservation Act Contracts. All farmlands enrolled in LCA contracts established within the project area would be preserved. Thus, no project-specific impacts to LCA Contracts are expected. Displacement of Crops. Pipeline installation would displace agricultural crops and may reduce access to other crops due to open trenches. However, displacement of crops would be limited a 75-foot-wide construction corridor over a period of a few months. Crops affected are mostly short-rotation row crops, such that the pipeline alignment could be planted soon after construction is complete, minimizing loss of production. Access requirements would resolved as part of acquisition of temporary construction easements, such that trenches would be closed as needed to allow nearly continuous access to all cultivated areas along the pipeline alignment. Loss of productivity is not considered substantial because areas affected would be relatively small and the duration of effects would be short. Therefore, loss of production impacts to agricultural resources would be less than significant. Indirect Impacts. The proposed project would improve the quality and reliability of agricultural water supplies by a long-term reduction in total dissolved solids of groundwater used for irrigation (see Section 5.4). This impact is considered beneficial. Construction activities would generate dust, adversely affecting crops along the construction corridor. However, dust control measures have been incorporated into the project and would be included in the final plans and specifications (see Section 5.3.2.2). Therefore, loss of agricultural production associated with fugitive dust is considered a less than significant impact. Phase II. Loss of Important Farmlands. The following discussion describes the types of farmlands present within the Phase II portion of the project area, and the total length and area of farmlands that would be affected in the short-term by project activities. Table 5.6-3 provides estimates of temporary impacts of the preferred pipeline alignment. The proposed project would not result in any loss of farmland.
Table 5.6-3. Important Farmlands Along the Phase II Pipeline Alignment
Segment Prime Statewide Unique Local Total Farmland A-B 0 0 0 0 0 B-C 9,750 0 750 1,875 12,375 C-D 12,800 3,000 0 0 15,800 D-E2 18,000 5,500 0 0 23,500 E2-F 6,250 0 0 0 6,250 Total (ft) 46,800 8,500 750 1,875 57,925 Area (acres)1 80.6 14.6 1.3 3.2 99.7 1Based on 75-foot wide temporary construction easement
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According to Important Farmland Maps obtained from the California Department of Conservation, Pipeline Segment A-B is not located adjacent to any important farmlands (Figure 5.6-3). Segment B-C traverses several sections of important farmlands including approximately 16.8 acres of Prime farmlands to the west of Moorpark, which are mostly adjacent to the railroad tracks. In addition, approximately 1.3 acres of Unique farmlands and 3.2 acres of Locally Important farmlands may be temporarily affected (Figure 5.6-3). Segment C-D parallels Arroyo Simi and Arroyo Las Posas along alluvial floodplains, a majority of which are considered Prime farmlands. Approximately 22.0 acres of Prime farmland and 5.2 acres of Statewide Important farmlands would be temporarily affected by project activities (Figure 5.6-4). Segment D-E2 includes the main pipeline corridor (D-E2) plus a pipeline corridor for the connection to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (E1-E2). These segments parallel Calleguas Creek and are adjacent to large tracts of Prime farmlands and a smaller portion of Statewide Important farmland. Approximately 31.0 acres of Prime farmland and 9.5 acres of Statewide Important farmland would be temporarily affected by the pipeline’s 75-foot wide construction corridor (Figure 5.6-5). All of Segment E2-F is located adjacent to Prime farmland on one side and Calleguas Creek on the other. Approximately 10.8 acres of Prime farmland would be temporarily affected by pipeline construction (Figure 5.6-6). Overall, approximately 63,125 feet of the 123,000-foot-long Phase II pipeline corridor is adjacent to Prime farmlands, farmlands of Statewide Importance, and to a lesser degree, Unique and Locally Important farmlands. The proposed project may result in temporary disturbance of up to 89.5 acres of Prime farmland, 14.6 acres of Statewide Importance farmland, 1.3 acres of Unique farmlands, and 3.2 acres of Locally Important farmlands along the Phase II corridor. Due to the short period of disturbance (and associated loss of production) at any single location (a few weeks) and the preservation of topsoil, impacts to important farmlands are considered less than significant. Greenbelt Agreement. All disturbance to farmlands would be temporary, and agricultural production would continue over the buried pipeline. Therefore, all open space under the Greenbelt Agreements established within the project area would be retained with no changes in their boundaries. No project-specific impacts to greenbelts are expected. Land Conservation Act Contracts. All farmlands enrolled in LCA contracts established within the project area would be preserved. Thus, no project-specific impacts to LCA Contracts are expected.
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Displacement of Crops. Pipeline installation would displace agricultural crops and may reduce access to other crops due to open trenches. However, displacement of crops would be limited a 75-foot-wide construction corridor over a period of a few months. Crops affected are mostly short-rotation row crops, such that the pipeline alignment could be planted soon after construction is complete, minimizing loss of production. Access requirements would resolved as part of acquisition of temporary construction easements, such that trenches would be closed as needed to allow nearly continuous access to all cultivated areas along the pipeline alignment. Loss of productivity is not considered substantial because areas affected would be relatively small and the duration of effects would be short. Therefore, loss of production impacts to agricultural resources would be less than significant. Indirect Impacts. The proposed project would improve the quality and reliability of agricultural water supplies by a long-term reduction in total dissolved solids of groundwater used for irrigation (see Section 5.4). This impact is considered beneficial. Construction activities would generate dust, adversely affecting crops along the construction corridor. However, dust control measures have been incorporated into the project and would be included in the final plans and specifications (see Section 5.3.2.2). Therefore, loss of agricultural production associated with fugitive dust is considered a less than significant impact. Cumulative. The Ventura Council of Governments projects that Ventura County will grow in population by 8 percent from 2001 to 2010, and by 18 percent by 2020. These population projections form the basis of the Ventura County General Plan. Most of this population growth is expected to occur in Ventura, Camarillo, Oxnard, Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks. Development projects associated with this growth may result in the loss of farmland. However, Ventura County programs (see Section 5.6.1.4) to preserve farmland are expected to restrict any substantial loss of farmland. The proposed project would result in the loss of only 0.34 acres of farmland designated as developed. This small incremental impact is not considered cumulatively considerable, and is less than significant. Agricultural lands temporarily affected by project construction may also be affected by construction of other infrastructure projects, such as roadway improvements. However, it is unlikely that the impacts of the proposed project would occur at the same time and same location as other projects. Therefore, cumulative impacts are expected to be same as project- specific impacts. 5.6.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments The Regional Brine Lines Sizing and Alignment Study prepared for CMWD by Perliter and Ingalsbe Consulting Engineers in April 2001 identified several alternative alignments for each pipeline segment (see Figures 5.6-1 through 5.6-6). It is important to note that certain sections of the alternative alignments directly overlap with the preferred alignment. In addition, installation of any of the alternative pipeline alignments would likely have similar requirements as the preferred alignment, which were described in Section 5.6.2.2.
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Phase I Loss of Important Farmlands. The following discussion describes the types of farmlands present within the Phase I portion of each alternative alignment, and the length and area of farmlands that may be affected by project activities. Table 5.6-4 provides estimates of temporary impacts for Phase I alternative alignments of the project. The alternative pipeline alignments would not result in any loss of farmland.
Table 5.6-4. Important Farmlands Along the Phase I Alternative Pipeline Alignments Prime Statewide Unique Local Total Prime Statewide Unique Local Total Segment Alternative Alignment A Alternative Alignment B F-G 18,450 16,875 0 0 35,325 ------G-H 4,000 750 0 0 4,750 2,500 5,250 0 0 7,750 Total (ft) 22,450 17,625 0 0 40,075 2,500 5,250 0 0 7,750 Area 1 38.7 30.4 0 0 69.0 4.3 9.0 0 0 13.3 (acres) 1Based on 75-foot wide temporary construction easement.
Approximately 40,075 feet of the 48,200-foot-long Alternative A pipeline alignment is adjacent to Prime farmlands or farmlands of Statewide Importance (Figures 5.6-1 and 5.6-2). The proposed project may result in a maximum temporary disturbance of 38.7 acres of Prime farmland and 30.4 acres of Statewide Importance farmland along the Phase I Alternative A alignment. Approximately 7,750 feet of the Alternative B pipeline alignment is adjacent to Prime farmlands and farmlands of Statewide Importance (Figure 5.6-2). The proposed project may result in a temporary disturbance of 4.3 acres of Prime farmland and 9.0 acres of Statewide Importance farmlands along the Phase I Alternative B alignment. No farmlands are considered of “Unique” or “Local Importance” occur along the Phase I portion of alternative alignments A or B. Greenbelt Agreement. All disturbance to farmlands would be temporary, and agricultural production would continue over the buried pipeline. Therefore, all open space under the Greenbelt Agreements established within the project area would be retained with no changes in their boundaries. No project-specific impacts to greenbelts are expected. Land Conservation Act Contracts. All farmlands enrolled in LCA contracts established within the project area would be preserved. Thus, no project-specific impacts to LCA Contracts are expected.
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Displacement of Crops. Pipeline installation would displace agricultural crops and may reduce access to other crops due to open trenches. However, displacement of crops would be limited a 75-foot-wide construction corridor over a period of a few months. Crops affected are mostly short-rotation row crops, such that the pipeline alignment could be planted soon after construction is complete, minimizing loss of production. Access requirements would resolved as part of acquisition of temporary construction easements, such that trenches would be closed as needed to allow nearly continuous access to all cultivated areas along the pipeline alignment. Loss of productivity is not considered substantial because areas affected would be relatively small and the duration of effects would be short. Therefore, loss of production impacts to agricultural resources would be less than significant. Indirect Impacts. The alternative pipeline alignments would improve the quality and reliability of agricultural water supplies by a long-term reduction in total dissolved solids of groundwater used for irrigation (see Section 5.4). This impact is considered beneficial. Construction activities would generate dust, adversely affecting crops along the construction corridor. However, dust control measures have been incorporated into the project and would be included in the final plans and specifications (see Section 5.3.2.2). Therefore, loss of agricultural production associated with fugitive dust is considered a less than significant impact. Phase II Loss of Important Farmlands. The following discussion describes the types of farmlands present within the Phase II portion each alternative alignment, and the length and area of farmlands that may be affected by project activities. Table 5.6-5 provides estimates of temporary impacts for Phase II alternative alignments of the project. The alternative pipeline alignments would not result in any loss of farmland. For Alternative A, approximately 55,750 feet of the 126,900-foot corridor for the Phase II Segments (Points B to F) are adjacent to Prime farmlands, farmlands of Statewide Importance, and farmlands of Local Importance (Figures 5.6-3 through 5.6-6). The proposed project may result in the temporary disturbance of a maximum of 76.8 acres of Prime farmland, 14.6 acres of Statewide Importance farmland, and 4.5 acres of Local Importance farmlands along the Phase II corridor. Segment B-C is adjacent to several areas of Locally Important farmlands, while Segments C-D, D-E, and E-F are primarily adjacent to Prime farmlands and farmlands of Statewide Importance. For Alternative B, approximately 29,500 feet of the 114,000-foot corridor for the Phase II Segments (Points B to E) are adjacent to Prime farmlands and farmlands of Statewide Importance (Figures 5.6-3 through 5.6-6). The proposed project may result in a temporary disturbance of 39.2 acres of Prime farmland and 11.6 acres of Statewide Importance farmlands along the Phase II corridor. For Alternative C, approximately 9,000 feet of the 14,000-foot corridor for the Phase II Segment D-E1 is adjacent to Prime farmlands and farmlands of Statewide Importance (Figure 5.6-5). The proposed project may result in a temporary disturbance of 4.7 acres of Prime farmland and 10.8 acres of Statewide Importance farmlands along the Phase II corridor.
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None of the Phase II alternative pipeline alignments are located adjacent to Unique farmlands.
Table 5.6-5. Important Farmlands Along the Phase II Alternative Pipeline Alignments Segment Prime Statewide Unique Local Total Alternative Alignment A B-C 1,875 0 0 2,625 4,500 C-D 13,500 6,250 0 0 19,750 D-E 23,250 2,250 0 0 25,500 E-F 6,000 0 0 0 6,000 Total (ft) 44,625 8,500 0 2,625 55,750 Area (acres)1 76.8 14.6 0.0 4.5 95.9 Alternative Alignment B B-C 7,500 0 0 0 7,500 C-D 13,250 2,000 0 0 15,250 D-E 2,000 4,750 0 0 6,750 Total (ft) 22,750 6,750 0 0 29,500 Area (acres)1 39.2 11.6 0.0 0.0 50.8 Alternative Alignment C D-E 2,750 6,250 0 0 9,000 Total (ft) 2,750 6,250 0 0 9,000 Area (acres)1 4.7 10.8 0.0 0.0 15.5 1Based on 75-foot wide temporary construction easement
Greenbelt Agreement. All disturbance to farmlands would be temporary, and agricultural production would continue over the buried pipeline. Therefore, all open space under the Greenbelt Agreements established within the project area would be retained with no changes in their boundaries. No project-specific impacts to greenbelts are expected. Land Conservation Act Contracts. All farmlands enrolled in LCA contracts established within the project area would be preserved. Thus, no project-specific impacts to LCA Contracts are expected. Displacement of Crops. Pipeline installation would displace agricultural crops and may reduce access to other crops due to open trenches. However, displacement of crops would be limited a 75-foot-wide construction corridor over a period of a few months. Crops affected are mostly short-rotation row crops, such that the pipeline alignment could be planted soon after construction is complete, minimizing loss of production. Access requirements would resolved as part of acquisition of temporary construction easements, such that trenches would be closed as needed to allow nearly continuous access to all cultivated areas along the pipeline alignment. Loss of productivity is not considered substantial because areas affected would be relatively small and the duration of effects would be short. Therefore, loss of production impacts to agricultural resources would be less than significant.
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Indirect Impacts. The alternative pipeline alignments would improve the quality and reliability of agricultural water supplies by a long-term reduction in total dissolved solids of groundwater used for irrigation (see Section 5.4). This impact is considered beneficial. Construction activities would generate dust, adversely affecting crops along the construction corridor. However, dust control measures have been incorporated into the project and would be included in the final plans and specifications (see Section 5.3.2.2). Therefore, loss of agricultural production associated with fugitive dust is considered a less than significant impact. 5.6.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall The alternative pipeline alignment would terminate at, and discharge into the existing outfall used by the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This outfall is located directly seaward of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant (Point H1, Figure 5.6-2), and is approximately 3,500 feet long. The outfall is not located adjacent to any important farmlands (Figure 5.6-2). In any case, no construction would be required, such that no impacts to agricultural resources would occur. 5.6.2.5 No Action Alternative The No Action Alternative would allow Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels in agricultural water supplies to continue to rise, potentially resulting in reduced crop productivity and crop losses. A salt load analysis indicated that TDS concentrations in the South Las Posas Groundwater Basin will increase from current levels (500 to 1,600 mg/L) by 150 mg/L by the year 2010 (Bookman-Edmonston Engineering, 1997). Crop yields decline at TDS levels of 640 mg/L for strawberries and 1,150 mg/L for celery, two of the highest valued crops in the watershed. 5.6.3 Mitigation Measures 5.6.3.1 Proposed Action No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.6.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. 5.6.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No significant impacts were identified; therefore, no mitigation measures are required. 5.6.4 Residual Impacts 5.6.4.1 Proposed Action No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts are less than significant.
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5.6.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts are less than significant. 5.6.5 Federal Findings The proposed project would be constructed using Federal funding (in part); therefore, it must comply with the Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA). The FPPA requires the NRCS (formerly the Soil Conservation Service) to determine the acres and classification (Prime, Statewide, Unique, Local) of farmlands to be converted to other uses by proposed Federally funded projects. As part of this process, the NRCS determines the relative value of farmland to be converted using established land evaluation criteria (Storie system). The lead Federal agency (or implementing local agency) then conducts a site assessment to apply site-specific criteria and a point system (7 CFR 658.5) to determine the significance of conversion. These factors include: • Percentage of land in non-urban use within 1 mile; • Percentage of site perimeter bordering on non-urban uses; • Percentage of site farmed for more than 5 of the last 10 years; • Applicability of State and local farmland protection policies; • Size of farm unit relative to average unit in the County; • Percentage of farm unit made non-farmable due to interference with land patterns; • Availability of farm support services and markets; • Presence of on-farm investments (structures, drainage and irrigation systems, etc.); • Potential for conversion of site to reduce demand for farm support services that may reduce the viability of other farms in the area; and • Potential for conversion to contribute to eventual conversion of surrounding farmland. The land evaluation rating assigned by NRCS is on a scale from 0 to 100 points and the site assessment rating is on a scale of 0 to 160 points. The FPPA requires that alternative sites and/or project configurations be considered for overall ratings (sum of land evaluation and site assessment) exceeding 160 points. According to 7 CFR 658.3(c) of the Farmland Protection Policy Act, only actions that would convert farmland to nonagricultural uses are subject to the Act. Project activities are not anticipated to have any long-term effects on farmlands. All farmlands temporarily disturbed by construction activities would be returned to their original condition for use in agricultural operations. This includes any farmlands used for construction of temporary access roads. Therefore, the proposed project is exempt from the FPPA.
Page 5.6-27 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Noise
5.7 NOISE 5.7.1 Affected Environment 5.7.1.1 Noise Measurement Scales 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. The typical sound attenuation rate from point sources such as industrial facilities is about 6 dB per doubling of distance. Heavily traveled roads with few gaps in traffic approximate 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. Community noise levels are typically measured in terms of the A-weighted decibel (dBA). A-weighting is a frequency correction that correlates overall sound pressure levels with the frequency response of the human ear. Equivalent noise level (Leq) is the average noise level on an energy basis for a specific time period. The duration of noise and the time of day at which it occurs are important factors in determining the impact of noise on communities. Noise is more disturbing at night and noise indices have been developed to account for the time of day and duration of noise generation. The Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) and Day- Night Average Level (DNL or Ldn) are such indices. These indices are time-weighted average values equal to the amount of acoustic energy equivalent to a time-varying sound over a 24- hour period. The CNEL index penalizes night-time noise (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) by adding 10 dB and evening noise (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) by adding 5 dB to account for increased sensitivity of the community after dark. The Ldn index penalizes night-time noise the same as the CNEL index, but does not penalize evening noise. The following Table 5.7-1 summarizes typical community noise exposure and acceptability for various land uses. 5.7.1.1 Current Noise Environment The proposed project spans several municipalities including portions of Ventura County and the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo, and Oxnard. Currently, land uses along the proposed pipeline routes consist of residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural. As such, existing noise levels can be attributable to a number of sources, including but not limited to motor vehicles, industrial and commercial operations, air traffic from local airports, railroad transportation, and agricultural operations. In particular, existing vehicular traffic on Hueneme Road, Lewis Road, Somis Road, Los Angeles Avenue, West Easy Street, State Route (SR) 1, SR 118, SR 23 and U.S. Highway 101 contribute substantially to existing noise levels throughout the project area. Noise sensitive receptors along the proposed pipeline alignments include residential neighborhoods, mobile home parks, elementary and high schools and Channel Islands State University.
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Table 5.7-1. Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments Community Noise Exposure Land Use Category Ldn or CNEL, dBA 55 60 65 70 75 80 Residential: Low-density Single Family, Duplex, Mobile Homes
Residential: Multiple Family
Transient Lodging: Motels, Hotels
Schools, Libraries, Churches, Hospitals, Nursing Homes
Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters
Sports Arena, Outdoor Spectator Sports
Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks
Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation, Cemeteries
Office Buildings, Business Commercial and Professional
Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities, Agriculture
Source: California Department of Health, Office of Noise Control
INTERPRETATION: Normally Acceptable: specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal construction without any special noise insulation requirements. Conditionally Acceptable: New construction or development should only be undertaken after a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements is made and the needed insulation features included in the design. Normally Unacceptable: New construction or development should generally be discouraged. If new development is to proceed, a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements is made and the needed insulation features included in the design. Clearly Unacceptable: New development or construction should not be undertaken.
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Noise levels were measured within the vicinity of several sensitive receptor locations along the proposed pipeline alignments on July 5, 2001 using a Larson & Davis Type DSP80 Precision Integrating Sound Level Meter. Leq noise measurements were taken along the alignments for 15-minute periods. Table 5.7-2 identifies the noise measurement location within the proposed project area and the ambient Leq value. However, it is important to realize that existing noise data presented in Table 5.7-2 are short-term monitoring values and may not adequately characterize the existing noise environment within the project area.
Table 5.7-2. Existing Noise Levels in the Project Area
Distance to Monitoring Location Receptor Type Nearest Project Component dBA Leq Component Channel Islands State Preferred Segment E-F and F-G School 2,500 feet from Point F 52.5 University Alternative A Segment E-F and F-G Lamplighter Mobile Home Preferred Segment D-E Within 300-foot-wide Park, Via Rosal near Pleasant Residential 59.5 pipeline corridor Valley Road Alternative A Segment D-E Pancho Road/Howard Road Within 300-foot-wide Residential Preferred Segment E1-E2 57.0 intersection pipeline corridor Terminus of Adolfo Road at Within 300-foot-wide Residential Alternative B Segment D-E 53.4 Conejo Creek pipeline corridor Within 300-foot-wide Flynn Road at Calle Cancun Residential Alternative B Segment C-D 65.3 pipeline corridor Within 300-foot-wide Somis Road at North Street Residential Alternative A Segment C-D 67.2 pipeline corridor Within 300-foot-wide Hollyglen Court, Moorpark Residential Alternative B Segment B-C 51.2 pipeline corridor Recreation, also 400 feet south of the typical of homes Arroyo Vista Community Park Alternative A Segment B-C 300-foot-wide pipeline 48.7 along Arroyo corridor Simi Within 300-foot-wide Chaparral Middle School, Preferred Segment B-C School pipeline corridor for 62.8 Poindexter Avenue, Moorpark Alternative B Segment B-C Alternative B Spring Street near E. Los Within 300-foot-wide Residential Preferred Segment B-C 67.5 Angeles Avenue, Moorpark pipeline corridor Moorpark Continuation High Preferred Segment B-C Within 300-foot-wide School, Condor Drive, School 65.4 pipeline corridor Moorpark Alternative A Segment B-C Villa del Arroyo mobile home Preferred Segment B-C Within 300-foot-wide park, Los Angeles Avenue, Residential 59.9 pipeline corridor Simi Valley Alternative A Segment B-C
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5.7.2 Environmental Consequences The pipelines would be installed using conventional open trench construction techniques. In areas where it is not feasible to perform open cut trenching (e.g., State Highway crossings, flood control channel crossings, stream crossings, railroad crossing, etc.), tunneling techniques may be utilized, such as boring and jacking, micro-tunneling or similar methods. Noise impacts would be generally limited to normal working hours (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.). However, some nighttime work may be required at critical locations such as creek and highway crossings. Project related impacts would consist of short-term noise generated by construction equipment required for pipe installation, trucks and vehicles for transporting materials and construction workers to and from the site. Due to the linear nature of the project, the width of the disturbance corridor would typically be confined to an area approximately 50 to 75 feet in width. Pipeline installation rates are estimated at about 200 feet per day and would generally consist of trenching, spoil handling, pipeline installation, backfilling, and restoration. Typically, the pipe would be brought to the site just ahead of construction and staged along the alignment ready for placement. Trenching methods would involve very little stationary equipment and would be complete at any one location within a few weeks. Construction noise emissions would be dominated by stationary equipment for short periods of time in areas where tunneling would be required (Calleguas Creek, Conejo Creek, Revolon Slough, State highways). This methodology includes excavating push-pits on each side of the crossing, using a boring machine to excavate a horizontal hole under the major structure, and inserting a steel casing or directly installing pipe sections. All equipment required for tunneling would be confined to the immediate area of the crossing and removed upon completion of the tunneling operation. Tunneling operations may be completed within a reasonably short time period (i.e., a month or less); however, unforeseen obstructions and/or geologic conditions have the potential to hinder these operations. Three generalized noise scenarios were developed to characterize project impacts; trenching, trenching adjacent to an existing noise barrier and tunneling. Existing noise barriers included natural topography and existing noise walls. These scenarios are based on the development of peak day scenarios consisting of simultaneous construction activities in close proximity to a sensitive receptor. Residences, schools and hospitals were considered sensitive receptors for the purposes of this analysis. A construction noise worksheet model was used to estimate construction noise levels within the vicinity of the sensitive receptors. Noise-generating equipment was identified for each construction activity and noise levels estimated based on noise reference levels in Bolt, Beranek and Newman (1971) and the distance of each noise generator from the closest receptor.
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Due to the large area traversed by the pipeline alignments, only those sensitive receptors in close proximity to the alignment were modeled. These receptors characterize the maximum impacts of the project. Most of these receptors are located within the 300-foot-wide alignment corridor. Although the disturbance corridor is expected to be a maximum of 75 feet wide, a 300-foot-wide corridor was assessed to allow for minor re-alignment of the pipeline to avoid utilities and other obstructions. For the purposes of modeling, it was assumed that the actual pipeline alignment would be located 100 feet from the residential or school structure, for those sensitive receptors within the 300-foot-wide alignment corridor. Noise attenuation associated with existing noise barriers was calculated for those sensitive receptors located within the 300-foot-wide alignment corridor. Barrier attenuation was calculated to be 7 dBA, based on an assumed 6-foot-high barrier, located 50 feet from the sensitive receptor and 50 feet from noise generators. 5.7.2.1 Significance Thresholds Noise impacts associated with the project would be limited to short-term construction noise, which is not typically a consideration in land use compatibility. However, the project is located within Ventura County, and Ventura County General Plan Policy 2.16.2-1 includes a threshold for noise generators of 55 dBA Leq (1-hour), or ambient noise level plus 3 dBA Leq during the hours of 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. This threshold has been applied to construction equipment by the Ventura County Resource Management Agency. The 55 dBA threshold was originally developed for oil production and other long-term activities, where noise control is feasible and impacts would be long-term. Therefore, this threshold is not considered applicable to construction noise due the mobile nature of construction equipment and short-term nature of impacts. The nearest jurisdiction with specific restrictions on construction noise is the City of Oxnard. Most of Segment G-H of the proposed project is located within the City of Oxnard. In addition, most other local jurisdictions (cities of Port Hueneme, Moorpark, Simi Valley) have similar restrictions. Therefore, in the absence of any other applicable thresholds, these restrictions have been adopted as thresholds of significance by CMWD for the proposed project. City of Oxnard Ordinance no. 2292 established the following noise standards: • Residential zones: 55 dBA Leq from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. • Residential zones: 50 dBA Leq from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. • Commercial zones: 65 dBA Leq from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. • Commercial zones: 60 dBA Leq from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. • Industrial zones: 70 dBA Leq (anytime) However, Section 19-60.9(D) of Ordinance no. 2292 exempts construction activities from these noise standards, provided they are conducted between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays or Saturday.
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Implementation of the proposed project would result in short-term noise impacts to sensitive noise receptors during construction. Once the pipeline is installed, there would be no long-term operational noise sources associated with the proposed project, except for minor routine maintenance activities. These activities would generate a maximum of ten peak day vehicle trips, which would contribute to existing traffic noise. However, the incremental increase in vehicle trips on area roadways would be much less than one percent, such that no perceptible noise increase would occur. 5.7.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I. This phase consists of installation of the pipeline segments from the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Point F) to the Ormond Beach power plant (Point H2): Segments F-G and G-H2. The majority of the current land use within the vicinity of the pipeline alignments consists of agriculture; however, there are several single-family residences along Hueneme Road. Table 5.7-3 presents the results of the construction noise modeling in comparison to the significance thresholds used in this analysis. Noise model output data sheets are provided in Appendix D. The noise threshold was exceeded at approximately 6 rural residences along Hueneme Road. However, no work would be conducted on Sunday or on Monday through Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7 a.m. in close proximity to these residences. Nighttime work may be required for tunneling under Revolon Slough and Calleguas Creek; however, no residences are located within 1.5 miles of these two sites. Therefore, noise impacts are considered less than significant. Phase II. This project phase consists of installation of the pipeline segments not included as part of Phase I. This includes pipeline segments A-B, B-C, C-D, D-E2, and E2-F, beginning in Simi Valley and ending at the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility. Sensitive receptors occur near the Simi Valley dewatering wells (Segment A-B), at Via del Arroyo mobile home park, Moorpark Continuation High School and residential areas in Moorpark (Segment B-C), and the Lamplighter mobile home park (Segment D-E2). The noise threshold was exceeded at all sensitive receptors along the Phase II alignments. Construction work conducted from Monday through Saturday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. would be exempt from Ordinance 2292 and considered less than significant noise impacts. However, nighttime work may be required for tunneling under Calleguas Creek, Arroyo Simi and U.S. 101, which would significantly impact residences at the Lamplighter mobile home park and homes on Avenida Colonia (and possibly the Via del Arroyo mobile home park) in Moorpark. Nighttime exceedances of noise thresholds are considered a significant impact (Impact N-1).
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Table 5.7-3. Preferred Alignment: Construction Noise at Sensitive Receptors
Estimated Closest Day/Night Modeled Noise Segment Receptor/Type Distance(1) Threshold Activity Level(2) (feet) (dBA Leq) (dBA Leq)
Phase I
Channel Islands State University/school-student housing Trenching 2500 55/50 57 F-G Residences along Hueneme Road (4)/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Residences on Sanford Street/SFR Trenching 2600 55/50 57
G-H Residences along Hueneme Road (2)/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80
Phase II
A-B Residences on Aristotle Street/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80
Via del Arroyo mobile home park/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Moorpark Continuation High School/school Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 B-C Residences on Avenida Colonia/SFR Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 Residences on Charles Street/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73 Residences on High Street/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80
C-D No sensitive receptors along this segment
Lamplighter mobile home park/SFR Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 D-E2 Residence at Howard Road & Pancho Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80
E2-F No sensitive receptors along this segment
(1) The term on-site is used to denote the receptor is located within the 300 foot-wide analysis corridor (2) Trenching noise scenario used, unless the receptor is located within 1,000 feet of a major undercrossing (tunneling)
Cumulative. The noise environment of residences and other noise-sensitive receptors located adjacent to the project area is dominated by roadway noise and other existing land uses. It is anticipated that the project would be implemented within the next 2 to 10 years. The Ventura Council of Governments projects that Ventura County will grow in population by 8 percent from 2001 to 2010, and by 18 percent by 2020. These population projections form the basis of the Ventura County General Plan. Most of this population growth is expected to occur in Ventura, Camarillo, Oxnard, Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks. As part of this population growth, traffic volumes along roadways affected by the proposed project are expected to increase. Increased traffic volume would result in an increase in ambient noise at sensitive receptors affected by the proposed project. Construction activities associated with the proposed project would incrementally contribute to this noise increase. However, due to the short-term nature of project-related noise impacts (a few days to a month at any one location), the incremental contribution of the project is not considered significant. However, nighttime exceedances of noise standards would contribute to ambient traffic noise levels and are considered cumulatively significant (Impact N-2)
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5.7.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Alternative A. Segment F-G of Alternative A would generally avoid sensitive receptors, but would impact single-family residences located near the intersection of Sanford Street and Olds Road in the City of Oxnard. Segment G-H1 would impact two rural residences along Hueneme Road and several multi-family complexes north of Hueneme Road (Cuesta del Mar and vicinity). As indicated in Table 5.7-4, noise thresholds were exceeded at these sensitive receptors. However, no work would be conducted on Sunday or on Monday through Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7 a.m. in close proximity to these residences. Nighttime work may be required for tunneling under Revolon Slough and Calleguas Creek; however, no residences are located within 2.0 miles of these two sites. Therefore, noise impacts are considered less than significant. Alternative B. Segment G-H2 is located within agricultural lands and would not impact any sensitive receptors. Phase II. Alternative A. Segment B-C of Alternative A would avoid impacts to residential areas in Moorpark that would occur under the preferred alignment. However, impacts associated with tunneling under Arroyo Simi would be the same as the preferred alignment. Segment C-D of Alternative A would impact numerous residences along SR 118, Somis Road and northern Lewis Road, not impacted by the preferred alignment; however, no nighttime work would be required. Segment D-E2 of Alternative A would impact residences along southern Lewis Road, not impacted by the preferred alignment. Overall, noise impacts of Alternative A are greater than the preferred alignment. As indicated in Table 5.7-4, noise thresholds were exceeded at sensitive receptors. Construction work conducted from Monday through Saturday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. would be exempt from Ordinance 2292 and considered less than significant noise impacts. However, nighttime work may be required for tunneling under Calleguas Creek, Arroyo Simi and U.S. 101, which would significantly impact residences at the Lamplighter mobile home park and homes on Avenida Colonia (and possibly the Via del Arroyo mobile home park) in Moorpark. Nighttime exceedances of noise thresholds are considered a significant impact. Alternative B. Segment B-C of Alternative B would impact residential areas in Moorpark, not impacted by the preferred alignment. Segment C-D of Alternative B would impact residential areas in Camarillo (mostly along Flynn Road), not impacted by the preferred alignment. Segment D-E2 of Alternative B would impact residential areas in Camarillo (mostly along Adolfo Road), not impacted by the preferred alignment. Overall, noise impacts of Alternative B would be greater than the preferred alignment. As indicated in Table 5.7-5, noise thresholds were exceeded at sensitive receptors. Construction work conducted from Monday through Saturday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. would be exempt from Ordinance 2292 and considered less than significant noise impacts. However, nighttime work may be required for tunneling under Calleguas and Conejo Creeks, which would significantly impact residences along Adolfo Road in the vicinity of these crossings. Nighttime exceedances of noise thresholds are considered a significant impact.
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Alternative C. Segment D-E1 of Alternative C would impact residential areas in Camarillo (mostly along Adolfo Road), not impacted by the preferred alignment. Overall, noise impacts of Alternative C would be greater than the preferred alignment. As indicated in Table 5.7-5, noise thresholds would be exceeded at sensitive receptors. Construction work conducted from Monday through Saturday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. would be exempt from Ordinance 2292 and considered less than significant noise impacts. However, nighttime work may be required for tunneling under Calleguas Creek, which would significantly impact residences in the vicinity of the Adolfo Road crossing of Calleguas Creek. Nighttime exceedances of noise thresholds are considered a significant impact.
Table 5.7-4. Alternative Alignment A: Construction Noise at Sensitive Receptors Estimated Closest Day/Night Modeled Noise Segment Receptor/Type Distance(1) Threshold Activity Level(2) (feet) (dBA Leq) (dBA Leq) Phase I Channel Islands State University/school-student housing Trenching 2500 55/50 57 F-G Residences on Sanford Street/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Residences on Cuesta del Mar/MFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 G-H Residences along Hueneme Road (2)/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Phase II A-B Not applicable-no alternatives proposed for this segment Moorpark Continuation High School/school Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 B-C Residences on Avenida Colonia/SFR Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 Residence at Sand Canyon & SR 118/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 C-D Residences along Somis Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Residences along Lewis Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73 Lamplighter mobile home park/SFR Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 Casa Pacifica/MFR Trenching 300 55/50 71 D-E2 Via Calleguas/MFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73 Residences near Cawelti Road & Lewis Road (3)/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 E2-F No sensitive receptors along this segment (1) The term on-site is used to denote the receptor is located within the 300 foot-wide analysis corridor (2) Trenching noise scenario used, unless the receptor is located within 1,000 feet of a major undercrossing (tunneling)
5.7.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall As there are no sensitive receptors located along the alternative ocean outfall, no noise impacts are expected to result from project implementation. Construction-related noise associated with pipeline connection to the outfall are included under the pipeline alignments. 5.7.1.2 No Action Alternative Ambient noise levels within the project area may increase as population growth occurs, and traffic volumes increase. However, the No Action Alternative would not contribute to this noise increase. No noise impacts would occur.
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Table 5.7-5. Alternative Alignments B & C: Construction Noise at Sensitive Receptors
Estimated Closest Day/Night Noise Modeled Segment Receptor/Type Distance Threshold Level Activity (1) (feet) (dBA Leq) (2) (dBA Leq)
Phase I
Alt. B: F-G Not applicable-no Alternative B proposed for this segment
Alt B: G-H No sensitive receptors along this segment
Phase II
Alt. B: A-B Not applicable-no alternatives proposed for this segment
Via del Arroyo mobile home park/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Moorpark Continuation High School/school Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 Residences on Avenida Colonia/SFR Tunneling on-site 55/50 82 Residences on Charles Street/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73 Alt. B: B-C Residences on High Street/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Chaparral Middle School/school Trenching on-site 55/50 80 Residences on Hollyglen Court/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73 Residences on Avenon Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73 Residences on Talmadge Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73
Alt. B: C-D Residences along Flynn Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73
Alt. B: D-E1 Residences along Adolfo Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73
Alt. B: E1-F No sensitive receptors along this segment
Alt. C: D-E1 Residences along Adolfo Road/SFR Trenching on-site 55/50 73
(1) The term on-site is used to denote the receptor is located within the 300 foot-wide analysis corridor (2) Trenching noise scenario used, unless the receptor is located within 1,000 feet of a major undercrossing (tunneling)
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5.7.3 Mitigation Measures 5.7.3.1 Proposed Action Phase I. No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. Phase II. MM N-1. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce construction noise impacts associated with pipeline installation to the extent feasible: 1. Noise Control Corporation STC-30 noise blankets (or equivalent 13 dBA noise attenuation) shall be utilized to fully enclose all equipment associated with tunneling, if residences or schools are located within 2,000 feet and work occurs after 6 p.m.; 2. No construction work shall occur within 350 feet of a residence after 6 p.m. or on Sunday (even with noise blankets installed); 3. Heavy equipment activity adjacent to residences shall be limited to the minimal period required to complete pipeline installation; and 4. Equipment engine covers shall be in place and mufflers shall be in good working condition. The above mitigation measures should be monitored by a person designated by the construction contractor. The name and telephone number of the designated person should be provided to the CMWD. These mitigation measures should be enforced through routine inspection of the site by CMWD representatives. 5.7.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Mitigation measure MM N-1 (above) is applicable to the alternative pipeline alignments. 5.7.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No noise impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation is not necessary. 5.7.3.4 No Action Alternative No noise impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation is not necessary. 5.7.4 Residual Impacts 5.7.4.1 Proposed Action Phase I. No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant.
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Phase II. Nighttime construction work may be required for tunneling, and noise standards would be exceeded at adjacent residences even with noise blankets in place. Affected areas include the Segment B-C crossing of Arroyo Simi (residences on Avenida Colonia), and the Segment D-E crossing of U.S. 101 (residences at the Lamplighter mobile home park). Noise impacts in these areas may not be fully mitigable and residual impacts would be significant. 5.7.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant. Phase II. Nighttime construction work may be required for tunneling, and noise standards would be exceeded at adjacent residences even with noise blankets in place. Affected areas include: • Segment B-C Alternative A crossing of Arroyo Simi (residences on Avenida Colonia); • Segment D-E Alternative A crossing of U.S. 101 (residences at the Lamplighter mobile home park); • Segment D-E Alternative B crossings of Calleguas and Conejo Creeks (residences on Adolfo Road); and • Segment D-E Alternative C crossing of Calleguas Creek (residences on Adolfo Road). Noise impacts in these areas may not be fully mitigable and residual impacts would be significant. 5.7.4.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No noise impacts were identified; therefore, no residual impacts would occur. 5.7.4.4 No Action Alternative No noise impacts were identified; therefore, no residual impacts would occur. 5.7.5 Federal Findings There are no Federal thresholds or standards for short-term noise impacts. Impacts would be limited to construction-related noise, which would occur in areas with existing high noise levels (mostly along roadways). Noise impacts would persist for only a few weeks at any one sensitive receptor.
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5.8 AESTHETICS 5.8.1 Affected Environment The proposed project area is within the Calleguas Creek Watershed, which is located in the southern portion of Ventura County. The scenic resources within and near (i.e., within the viewshed of) the project area are diverse and are comprised of topographic/physical features including mountains, plains, valleys, and beaches. Visually dominant hills and mountains in the area are the Santa Monica Mountains to the south, the Simi Hills to the east, and South Mountain, Big Mountain and the Santa Susana Mountains to the north. Primary drainages of the Watershed include Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas, Calleguas Creek, Conejo Creek, Arroyo Conejo and Revolon Slough. These drainages terminate at the wetlands of Mugu Lagoon. Within the watershed urban development is concentrated primarily within the cities of Simi Valley, Moorpark, Thousand Oaks, and Camarillo. Each of these cities remain as distinct entities due to intervening topographic features (e.g., hills) and land uses such as open space and agriculture. Relatively vast and productive agricultural areas also remain within the watershed. These zones are identified as the East and West Las Posas Valley (divided by the Revolon Slough), Oxnard Plain/Pleasant Valley Plain (transected by bother the Revolon Slough and Calleguas Creek), and the Santa Rosa Valley (located between the Arroyo Las Posas to the north and Conejo Creek to the south. Based upon a review of the County of Ventura General Plan Resources Appendix (Ventura County 1994a), there are no Ventura County designated scenic resources areas or scenic highway protection areas within the project’s area of impact. Within the project area, U.S. 101 and State Route (SR) 1 are considered eligible State scenic highways. The following roads located within the immediate project area are designated as eligible County scenic highways: • Lewis Road • Potrero Road • Las Posas Road • Santa Rosa Road • Los Angeles Avenue • Grimes Canyon Road • SR 23 • Spring Road It should be noted that their designation as eligible scenic highways currently provides no protection from an aesthetic standpoint. However, at the time of identification of these road segments for their eligibility as designated scenic highways, the importance of preserving the scenic vistas from these roads was recognized. The assessment of aesthetic impacts, while being somewhat subjective, can be based upon three fundamental criteria; the scenic variety (physical attributes of a site which give it visual interest, see Table 5.8-1); the visual sensitivity of the site (visibility and level of concern of viewers for aesthetic quality, see Table 5.8-2); and the visual condition (compatibility of the site’s characteristics with that of its surroundings, see Table 5.8-3). Considering the elements described above, the scenic features, visual condition, and visual sensitivity for each proposed pipeline segment are described as follows.
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Table 5.8-1. Scenic Variety Classes
Landscape Element Distinctive Common Minimal
>60% slope exposed ridges; steep, 20-60% slope, small <20% slope level to Landform highly dissected canyons ridges, knolls, canyons rolling terrain
High variation in vegetative types; Some variation in Graded areas, bare Vegetation/Drainages such as mixture of trees, shrubs, vegetative types, soils and grassland forming edges height, and density
Shorelines/Rivers Perennial streams, pools, falls, Intermittent streams, Gullies (where applicable) vegetated shoreline diversified shoreline
General Landscape Variety in detail, with many unique Some variation, with No variety boundaries Character boundaries between different units. indistinct boundaries
Powerful sense of unity and proportion with design variation. Strong design linkages provided by:
• Building silhouette; • Spacing between buildings; • Setbacks from street property line;
• Proportion of windows, No sense of unity and bays, doorways, and other Some sense of unity proportion. Design Urban Design features; and proportion. linkage absent, or Character • Massing of building form; Moderate design strong unity with no linkages. design variation • Location and treatment of (monotonous). entryway;
• Surface material, finish and texture;
• Shadow patterns; • Building scale; • Style of architecture; and • Landscaping, if any.
Source: Adapted from U.S. Department of Agriculture (1974), National Forest Landscape Management, Forest Service, Washington, D.C., Vol. 2, Ch. 1 and Hedman and Jaszewski (1984), Fundamentals of Urban Design, American Planning Association, Chicago, Illinois.
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Table 5.8-2. Criteria for Rating Sensitivity Levels
Travel Route or Visual Sensitivity Level Use Area High Moderate Low
At least 1/4 of users have Fewer than 1/4 users have Primary Travel Route major concern for visual major concern for visual N/A and Use Area quality quality
At least 3/4 of users have Between 1/4 and 3/4 of Fewer than 1/4 of users Secondary Travel major concern for visual users have major concern have major concern for Routes and Use Areas quality for visual quality visual quality.
NOTES: The proportions of users indicated (1/4, 3/4) are approximate. These user ratios indicate a relationship between the number of travelers and their appreciation for aesthetics while enroute to a destination. In accordance with the U.S. Forest Service methodology, a greater sensitivity is assumed to be felt by those driving, walking, and bicycling for pleasure and those engaged in recreation activities than those commuting for work-related purposes. SOURCE: U.S. Department of Agriculture (1974), National Forest Landscape Management, Forest Service, Washington, D.C., Vol. 2, Ch. 1. Table 4.7-2 modified by Lawrence Headley, Arthur Little, Inc., Santa Barbara, California, 1985.
Table 5.8-3. Visual Condition Rating Guidelines
Visual Guidelines Condition Class
a) All features within the field of view appear to be characteristic of the region;
VC-1 b) Or, features appearing incongruous (out of place, incompatible) are evident, but would usually be overlooked by the casual viewer (inconspicuous due to such factors as size, distance, distribution, context, screening, or the predominant orientation of the views).
a) Uncharacteristic features, appear incongruous, are not easily overlooked, and may attract attention, but are visually subordinate to inherent features. VC-2 b) Or, uncharacteristic features are subordinate to the predominant characteristics of the area, but are similar enough to the inherent features of the area to be regarded as at least moderately compatible with them.
a) Uncharacteristic features appear incongruous and compete for attention (are distracting and co-dominant) with those that are inherent to the area; VC-3 b) Or, uncharacteristic features demand attention (are visually dominant), but are moderately compatible with features inherent to the area.
Uncharacteristic features appear incongruous and dominate the field of view. The primary VC-4 character of the area may be subdued by comparison and difficult to recognize.
Uncharacteristic features appear incongruous and dominate the field of view, due to their size VC-5 and/or distribution, that the character of the area is unrecognizable or does not appear to be the same as that for the rest of the region.
SOURCE: Modified from U.S. Department of Agriculture (1974)
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5.8.1.1 Proposed Action Phase I. Segment F-G. This segment would cross Calleguas Creek and the Revolon Slough. Figure 5.1-1 provides some photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. For the majority of this segment, the pipe would be within the Lewis Road and Hueneme Road rights-of way and the Ventura Flood control rights-of-way. The pipe would also cross under SR 1. Water courses are typically considered to be scenic features. Additionally, as indicated above, SR 1 is designated as an eligible County scenic highway. The primary land use in this area is agricultural; therefore, sensitive receptors would be limited, for the most part, to motorists on local roads. These roads include eligible scenic highways; Las Posas Road, Potrero Road and Lewis Road. However, views from Las Posas Road and Potrero Road are limited to their intersection with Hueneme Road. California State University at Channel Islands is located approximately 2,500 feet east of the proposed pipeline terminus at the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility. The area can be considered to have a common rating for scenic variety due to the variety provided by the drainages of the area. The visual condition of the area is high (VC-1) as it is relatively uniform in its agricultural nature. The area can be considered to have a moderate level of visual sensitivity. Segment G-H. This segment is characterized for the most part by flat land occupied by industrial and agricultural uses including the Ormond Beach power plant located adjacent to the Pacific Ocean at the termination of the segment. Figure 5.1-2 provides some photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. The pipeline would be primarily located within the rights-of-way of Hueneme Road and Edison Drive. The scenic variety of the area can be considered common; however, the visual condition is low (VC- 4) due to the visual conflict of industrial development with the agricultural and natural environment. The area can be considered to have a low to moderate level of visual sensitivity. Diversion Structure. As described in the project description, the proposed Diversion Structure would function as an interconnection between the proposed pipeline and the existing ocean intake and outfall used by the Ormond Beach power plant. The Diversion Structure would be located within an area of about 100 feet by 150 feet, located immediately north of the power plant, on land currently owned by the Metropolitan Water District. This area is agricultural in nature. However, the beach and ocean south of the power plant are natural resources generally regarded as visually sensitive.
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Phase II. Segment A-B. This segment would be located entirely within roadway rights-of-way from the Simi Valley dewatering wells to the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant. Open space including Tierra Rejada Park and Arroyo Simi is located south of the eastern portion of the alignment. Industrial uses are located both north and south of the alignment and residential uses are also located south of the alignment. Figure 5.1-3 provides some photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. The scenic variety of the area can be considered common due to the variation in topography and the presence of the Arroyo Simi, which also adds to the visual character of the area. The visual condition is low (VC-3) due to the mix of uses within the view corridor. The pipeline corridor is visible from the local land uses described above as well as the streets within which it would be located (e.g., Chain Drive, Easy Street, Madera Road). The area is considered to have moderate visual sensitivity. Segment B-C. This Segment would connect the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant and the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant. The alignment would generally follow the Union Pacific Railroad, but would also follow the alignment of roadways including Hitch Boulevard, Gabbert Road, Poindexter Avenue, High Street, Los Angeles Avenue, and Easy Street. Sensitive visual receptors along this segment include residential uses along East Los Angeles Avenue and High Street. This alignment would include several creek crossings and railroad crossings. Additionally, it would cross SR 118, SR 23, and Spring Road. Los Angeles Avenue, SR 23 and Spring Road are considered eligible scenic highways. Motorists on Los Angeles Avenue would have a view of this segment for about 3,000 feet, while views from SR 23 and Spring Road would be limited to crossings. Segment B-C passes through unincorporated Ventura County, the City of Moorpark and the City of Simi Valley. Figure 5.1-3 provides some photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. Agriculture and open space are the prevalent land uses within the unincorporated areas. The cities of Moorpark and Simi Valley are comprised of a variety of residential and industrial uses. The pipeline corridor is visible from these areas as well as the railroad and Oak Park located north of the alignment. The scenic variety of the area can be considered common due to the creeks and open space rural character of most of the area. However, there are many incongruous elements within the viewshed including industrial and public facility uses and the railroad rights-of-way; therefore, the visual condition is low (VC-3). The visual sensitivity of the area is considered high because Los Angeles Avenue is a primary travel route and considered eligible for listing as a scenic highway. Segment C-D. This segment would extend from the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Adolfo Road crossing of Calleguas Creek. It would be located along the north bank of the Arroyo Las Posas until reaching Upland Road near St. John’s Seminary then continue along the north bank of Calleguas Creek to Adolfo Road. This area is generally undeveloped, and includes vast areas under agricultural cultivation and the riparian corridors of the Arroyo Las Posas and Calleguas Creek. This segment extends through the City of Camarillo and unincorporated Ventura County. Figure 5.1-4 provides some photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area.
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Most of this segment is located along Arroyo Simi, with few public views. Sensitive visual receptors along this segment are limited to a few residential uses in the City of Camarillo (e.g., rear yards of Talud Terrace and Tranquila Drive) and the portion of the segment that parallels the Union Pacific Railroad near Somis. It is unknown the extent to which the segment can be seen from rear yards, given the potential for intervening vegetation, fences and topography. The scenic variety of the area can be considered common due to the creeks and open space rural character of most of the area. The visual condition can be considered moderate (VC-2) as there are few elements that are grossly incongruous with the general character of the area. The visual sensitivity of the area is considered low because it not highly visible from major roads or public areas. Segment D-E2. This segment would extend from Adolfo Road to the Lewis Road bridge along Calleguas Creek, and would include a connection to the Camarillo Sanitary District Wastewater Reclamation Plant. Much of this segment would parallel Calleguas Creek, with a portion within the rights-of-way for Rancho Road and Howard Road. The southern portion of this segment is in an area that is generally agricultural in nature (unincorporated Ventura County). However, the northern portion of the segment is located within a developed portion of the City of Camarillo. Land uses within the City of Camarillo that are near the proposed pipeline corridor include residential, public park and industrial uses. Figure 5.1-5 provides some photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. Segment D-E2 may be visible from homes along Fallen Leaf Avenue, Flora Vista Avenue, Via Rosal, and other residential streets in the area. Also, views of the pipeline corridor would be available from Woodside Park. The pipeline would cross under U.S. 101, an eligible State scenic highway. The scenic variety of the area can be considered minimal to common. Although the area includes Calleguas Creek, the mixture of suburban and agricultural uses provides no unity or proportion. The visual condition can be considered low (VC-3) as there is no consistent aesthetic character to the area. The visual sensitivity of the area is considered moderate to high as much of it is visible from U.S. 101. Segment E2-F. This segment follows the west bank of Calleguas Creek, would be located on private property and would extend from the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility to the intersection of Lewis Road and Calleguas Creek. Segment E-F is located within an agricultural area and would be clearly visible from Lewis Road, which is considered eligible for listing as a scenic highway. Figure 5.1-6 provides some photographs of land uses along this segment and identifies existing land uses in the area. The scenic variety of the area can be considered common, as it includes Calleguas Creek and primarily open space. The visual condition can be considered moderate (VC-2) as the area is relatively consistent in its visual character. The visual sensitivity of the area is considered moderate since it is visible from Lewis Road, a secondary travel route.
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5.8.1.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Segment F-G (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would be similar to the preferred alignment except that much of the alignment would be located about 2,500 feet north of and parallel to Hueneme Road rather than in the Hueneme Road rights-of-way. Segment F- G can be viewed from the same eligible scenic highways as the preferred alignment (Las Posas Road, Potrero Road and Lewis Road). However, this alternative would be less visible than the preferred alignment, because it would be removed from Hueneme Road. The scenic variety (common), visual sensitivity (moderate) and visual condition (VC-1) would be the same as for the preferred alignment since the scenic features of the area are virtually the same. Segment G-H (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would be similar to the preferred alignment except it would continue west on Hueneme Road past the intersection with Edison Road and then turn south toward the ocean along Perkins Road to the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This segment is characterized by relatively flat land occupied by industrial (e.g. aluminum and paper manufacturing, etc.) and agricultural uses. To the south these uses transition to the Ormond Beach area, which contains brackish wetlands with sand dunes and the beach beyond. The pipeline would be located within the rights-of-way of Hueneme Road and Perkins Road. The scenic variety of the area can be considered common; however, the visual condition is low (VC-4) due to the conflicting character of the industrial development with the natural environment. The beach, dune and wetland areas are used by residents and visitors for their recreational and natural environment values, and are considered to have a high level of visual sensitivity due to their recreational use. The diversion structure would be located immediately south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. Segment G-H (Alternative Alignment B). This segment would extend south from Hueneme Road along Arnold Road and then turn west following the Oxnard Drain toward the Ormond Beach power plant. It would terminate at a diversion structure to be constructed near the ocean outfall. Land use in proximity to the alignment is mostly agricultural. The Oxnard Drain is a flood control structure with coastal wetlands and beaches to the south. Like the preferred alignment, this segment is characterized by agricultural use with the Ormond Beach power plant as a conflicting element of the landscape. However, bird watchers and others visit these wetlands adjacent to the alignment, increasing the visual sensitivity of the site. The scenic variety of the area is common, visual condition low (VC-4) and visual sensitivity high.
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Phase II. Segment B-C (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would turn west from the Simi Valley WQCP and would follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi, excluding the central portion, which would follow the Union Pacific Railroad rights-of-way. This alternative would include several crossings of Arroyo Simi as well as crossing under the SR 23 transition/SR 118 bridges, Los Angeles Avenue and Spring Road. SR 23 and Los Angeles Avenue are eligible scenic highways, but views of Segment B-C from these roadways would be limited to crossings. The alignment would continue along the VCFCD access road to Hitch Road, and intersect the preferred alignment. The scenic character is defined more by open space for this alternative than the preferred alignment. The scenic variety can be considered moderate due to the open space and creek elements of the area. This alignment is visible to a fewer number of persons than the preferred alignment, since it is mostly away from public streets. However, it can be seen from the Union Pacific railroad, Tierra Rejada Park, Arroyo Vista Community Park and several residential streets. Public parks in particular are sensitive viewing areas. Therefore, this area can be considered to have a high level of visual sensitivity. This visual condition is considered low to moderate (VC-3) due to the mixture of land use types within the corridor. Segment B-C (Alternative Alignment B). This segment would vary from the preferred alignment at Moorpark Road, where it would turn south, and parallel the south side of the railroad tracks. This alternative would then turn west on Poindexter Avenue and then south on Gabbert Road. Proceeding south, the alignment would turn west on Los Angeles Avenue, and follow Los Angeles Avenue to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant. This corridor is very similar to the preferred alignment, but would be visible to a substantially longer portion of Los Angeles Avenue (8,500 feet), an eligible scenic highway. Overall, the scenic variety, visual condition, and visual sensitivity would be the same as the preferred alignment. Segment C-D (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would follow Los Angeles Avenue westward, crossing under the railroad tracks to Somis Road, then turn south along Somis Road to Upland Road. This alternative would then extend southwest along Lewis Road (known as Somis Road north of Upland Road) until it meets Adolfo Road, where it would turn southeast along Adolfo Road and terminates at the west bank of Calleguas Creek at Point D. This corridor is relatively flat, characterized mainly by agricultural uses, and includes two creek crossings. Segment C-D would be visible to motorists on Los Angeles Avenue (eligible scenic highway) for a distance of about 18,000 feet. The scenic variety of the area can be considered common. This area can be considered to have a moderate to high level of visual sensitivity as it is a primary travel route. Visual condition of the area is considered moderate (VC-2) because other land uses compete with the dominant agricultural character in the visual landscape.
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Segment C-D (Alternative Alignment B). This segment varies from the preferred alignment where it approaches the railroad tracks near Los Angeles Avenue. At this point, the alternative alignment would head northwest and cross the railroad tracks, and parallel the railroad tracks to the vicinity of Rice Street, where it would cross to the south side of the railroad tracks. The alignment would then turn southwest towards Arroyo Simi and follow the north bank of Arroyo Simi to Upland Road. The alternative alignment would then turn southeast onto Upland Road to Flynn Road, where it would turn southwest. The alignment would continue along Flynn Road to Adolfo Road, where it would turn southeast on Adolfo Road and terminate at Point D. Segment C-D is not visible from any eligible scenic highways. However, it would be visible to several residential areas along Flynn Road and Adolfo Road. The scenic variety can be considered common. This area can be considered to have a moderate level of visual sensitivity because it is mainly in a primary travel route. This visual condition can be considered moderate (VC-2) as there are no grossly incongruous visual elements. Segment D-E2 (Alternative Alignment A). This segment varies from the preferred alignment where it crosses Pleasant Valley Road. At this point, the alternative alignment would turn west on Pleasant Valley Road, then turn south on Lewis Road, to the west bank of Calleguas Creek (Point E2). The alignment would follow along the west bank of Calleguas Creek to the confluence with Conejo Creek, then follow the west bank of Conejo Creek to the Camarillo Sanitary District Water Reclamation Plant (Camarillo WRP), Point E1. Segment D-E2 would be visible to motorists on Lewis Road (eligible scenic highway) for a distance of about 11,000 feet. Excluding views from roadways, views of this Segment would be limited to the Lamplighter mobile home park and a few rural residences on Lewis Road. The scenic variety of this area can be considered common and visual condition VC- 3, as there is a transition of urban and rural uses along this corridor and there are no outstanding scenic features other than the Calleguas Creek. This area can be considered to have a low to moderate level of visual sensitivity since a portion of the segment can be seen from primary travel routes (U.S. 101). Segment D-E2 (Alternative Alignment B). This segment would cross Calleguas Creek at Adolfo Road, follow Adolfo Road to the east to Conejo Creek, and cross Conejo Creek. The alignment would turn southwest and follow the access road on the east bank of Conejo Creek to U.S. 101, cross under U.S. 101 and continue southwest along the Conejo Creek access road to Ridge View Street where it would cross to the west bank of Conejo Creek. The alignment would then follow the access road on the west bank of Conejo Creek to the Camarillo WRP (Point E1). The alignment from Point E1 to Point E2 would be the same as the preferred alignment, or may follow along Conejo Creek to Point E2. Excluding a crossing of U.S. 101, Segment D-E2 is not visible from any eligible scenic highways. However, it would be visible to several residential areas along Adolfo Road. The scenic variety of this area can be considered common as Conejo Creek is the primary visual feature for much of this route and no other distinctive scenic features are present. This area can be considered to have moderate level of visual sensitivity, since much of the corridor is visible from Adolfo Road, a well used secondary travel route. This visual condition of this is considered moderate (VC-2), because the transition from rural to urban is relatively gradual, preventing dominance of uncharacteristic features.
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Segment D-E (Alternative Alignment C). This segment would cross Calleguas Creek at Adolfo Road, follow Adolfo Road to the east to Camino Ruiz, and turn south on Camino Ruiz to U.S. 101. The alignment would be parallel and north of U.S. 101, then cross under U.S. 101 and follow parallel and south of U.S. 101 to Conejo Creek. The alignment would then follow the access road on the west bank of Conejo Creek to Adohr Lane, where it would become the same as Alternative Alignment B, extending to the Camarillo WRP. The alignment from Point E1 to Point E2 would be the same as the preferred alignment, or may follow along Conejo Creek as per Alternative Alignment B. The discussion of scenic variety, visual sensitivity, and visual condition is the same as for Alignment B. Segment E2-F (Alternative Alignment A). This segment would cross Calleguas Creek to the southeast, and follow the access road on the east bank to intersect the Phase I pipeline near the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility (Camrosa WRF). Since this alternative is basically the same alignment as the proposed alignment, except on the other side of the Creek, the visual setting discussion for the preferred alignment also applies for this alternative. Table 5.8-4 summarizes the aesthetic ratings for the proposed pipeline corridors and alternatives. Table 5.8-4. Aesthetic Ratings for Pipeline Segments
Visual Segment Scenic Variety Visual Sensitivity Adjacent Eligible Scenic Highways Condition Proposed Action – Phase I F-G Common Moderate VC-1 Las Posas, Potrero, Lewis Roads G-H Common Low-Moderate VC-4 None Proposed Action – Phase II A-B Common Moderate VC-3 None B-C Common High VC-3 Los Angeles Ave, Spring Rd, SR 23 C-D Common Low VC-2 None D-E2 Minimal-Common Moderate-High VC-3 U.S 101 E2-F Common Moderate VC-2 Lewis Road
Alternative Alignments – Phase I F-G (Alt. A) Common Moderate VC-1 Las Posas, Potrero, Lewis Roads G-H (Alt. A) Common High VC-4 None
G-H (Alt. B) Common High VC-4 None Alternative Alignments – Phase II
B-C (Alt. A) Common High VC-3 Los Angeles Avenue, SR 23 B-C (Alt. B) Common High VC-3 Los Angeles Avenue, SR 23
C-D (Alt. A) Common Moderate-High VC-2 Los Angeles Avenue C-D (Alt. B) Common Moderate VC-2 None
D-E2 (Alt. A) Common Low-Moderate VC-3 Lewis Road, U.S. 101 D-E2 (Alt. B) Common Moderate VC-2 U.S. 101
D-E2 (Alt. C) Common Moderate VC-2 U.S. 101 E2-F (Alt. A) Common Moderate VC-2 Lewis Road
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5.8.2 Environmental Consequences 5.8.2.1 Significance Thresholds The evaluation of the project’s aesthetic impacts is based upon a review of the project plans, area maps, aerial photographs, and site reconnaissance. For the purposes of this analysis, a significant adverse aesthetic impact would occur, if project-related activities would permanently degrade the scenic variety or visual condition of an area with a high to moderate level of visual sensitivity or cause the obstruction of scenic views. 5.8.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I. As indicated in Table 5.8-4, the Phase I pipeline segments are considered to have low to moderate visual sensitivity. As described in Section 3.0, Project Description, pipeline installation would be accomplished using open trenching techniques in most areas and methods such as boring and jacking for major surface structure crossings including creeks and State highways. No new access roads would be required for the purposes of project construction or maintenance. Equipment, materials, exposed soils, trenches, and stockpiled soil would be visible from public roadways during the period of project construction. Construction is expected to proceed at a rate of about 200 feet per day. Views of construction activities are uncharacteristic of the existing visual condition of the project area, such that short-term deterioration of visual quality would occur in areas with low to moderate visual sensitivity. Although this impact is considered to be adverse, it is less than significant because of its temporary and mobile nature. A diversion structure would be located immediately north of the Ormond Beach power plant and would include a masonry building, valves and associated equipment. The diversion structure would be removed from the beach and not visible to beach users. This type of facility would be viewed as a visually compatible extension of the power plant. Therefore, the diversion structure is not expected to substantially reduce the scenic variety or visual condition of the area. The existing Ormond Beach power plant outfall would be used. Therefore, no visual impacts would be associated with construction of or modifications of the outfall. The project would need to comply with discharge permits and as such no floatable materials or other discharge that would create a visual impact at the outfall would be allowed. Therefore, no visual impacts associated with discharge are expected. Phase II. The pipeline would be extended to the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant, Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant, and Simi Valley dewatering wells. Excluding Segment C-D, the preferred pipeline alignment has a moderate to high level of visual sensitivity. Views of construction activities are uncharacteristic of the existing visual condition of the project area, such that short-term deterioration of visual quality would occur. Although this impact is considered to be adverse, it is less than significant because of its temporary and mobile nature. Cumulative. The proposed project would incrementally contribute to construction- related short-term degradation of visual resources. However, due to the short-term and mobile nature of the construction impacts, and the low probability of other projects impacting the same area as the proposed project at the same time, short-term construction impacts are not expected to be cumulatively considerable.
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5.8.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. The visual impacts for construction would be as described for the preferred alignments above. Because of the short-term nature of construction, impacts are considered adverse, but less than significant. However, the degree of the adverse impact varies depending on the alignment. A comparative evaluation of the alternative alignments is presented as follows. Alternative A. Segment F-G Alternative A construction activities would result in a minimal impact, because it would be mostly removed from public roadways and viewing areas. The construction-related impact to visual resources associated with Alternative A is less than significant, and less than the preferred alternative. Segment G-H Alternative A construction activities would temporary degrade visual resources on a route (Perkins Road) with a high level of visual sensitivity, associated with recreational access. The construction-related impact to visual resources associated with Alternative A is less than significant, but greater than the preferred alternative. The diversion structure would be located south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. Maintaining the pipeline and diversion structure would require the construction of an asphalt access road adjacent to or above the buried pipeline. Depending on the rate of sand migration, a small wall may have to be constructed to protect the access road from sand inundation. Because Perkins Road and the public parking area located south of the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant are used by members of the public for recreational access, the site is visually sensitive. Although the diversion structure would be visually compatible use with the existing power plant, the mechanical elements of the plant are presently well screened by walls and landscaping. Therefore, unless the diversion structure is appropriately screened from public view, a significant adverse visual impact would result. The existing Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall would be used. Therefore, as with the preferred outfall, no visual impacts would be associated with construction of or modifications of the outfall. The project would need to comply with discharge permits and as such no floatable materials or other discharge that would create a visual impact at the outfall would be allowed. Therefore, no visual impacts associated with discharge are expected. Alternative B. Segment G-H Alternative B construction activities would temporary degrade visual resources adjacent to and within coastal wetlands used as a recreational area by bird watchers and other nature enthusiasts. Although this segment is considered to have a high visual sensitivity, construction activity would be temporary and biological restoration of the pipeline corridor discussed in Section 5.5 would also restore visual resources. Therefore, aesthetic impacts are considered less than significant. A diversion structure would be located near the dunes, immediately south of the Ormond Beach power plant and would include a small masonry building, valves and associated equipment. The diversion structure would be located adjacent to the beach and visible to beach users. This type of facility would be viewed as a visually compatible extension of the power plant. Therefore, the diversion structure is not expected to substantially reduce the scenic variety or visual condition of the area.
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Phase II. Segment B-C Alternative A would result in a lesser short-term visual impact as compared to the preferred alignment, since much of it is located along the Arroyo Simi away from public view. Aesthetic impacts associated with this segment are considered less than significant. Segment B-C Alternative B would have essentially the same level of impact as the preferred alternative, since both are primarily adjacent to public roads and along the railroad rights-of-way. However, this Segment would be visible to motorists on Los Angeles Avenue (an eligible scenic highway) for a much longer distance. Aesthetic impacts associated with this segment are considered less than significant, due to the temporary and mobile nature of construction disturbance. Segment C-D Alternative A would have a substantially greater short-term visual impact than the preferred alternative, because it would be located on public roads and railroad rights-of-way. Contrary to the preferred alignment, this segment would be visible to motorists on Los Angeles Avenue (an eligible scenic highway). Aesthetic impacts associated with this segment are considered less than significant, due to the temporary and mobile nature of construction disturbance. Segment C-D Alternative B would have similar impacts as the preferred alignment, except this alternative would be more visible to the public, along Flynn Road and Adolfo Road. Aesthetic impacts associated with Alternative B are considered less than significant, but greater than the preferred alignment. Segment D-E2 Alternatives A, B and C would have a higher degree of short-term visual impact than the preferred alignment because of increased visibility from public roads. In particular, Alternative A would be highly visible by motorists on Lewis Road, an eligible scenic highway. Aesthetic impacts associated with any of the alternatives for this segment are considered less than significant. Segment E-F Alternative A would have the same degree of visual impact as the preferred alignment. 5.8.2.4 No Action Alternative Construction would be avoided; therefore, there would be no aesthetic impacts.
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5.8.3 Mitigation Measures 5.8.3.1 Proposed Action The Proposed Action would not result in significant impacts to aesthetics; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary. . 5.8.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments The following measure shall be fully implemented to reduce aesthetics impacts of the diversion structure associated with pipeline segment G-H Alternative A: • The diversion structure near the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant shall be screened from public view by appropriate measures such as visually compatible walls, landscaping or landscaped berms. 5.8.4 Residual Impacts 5.8.4.1 Proposed Action No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant. 5.8.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Full implementation of the above mitigation measure would reduce aesthetics impacts to a level of less than significant. 5.8.5 Federal Findings No Federal findings are required for visual resources.
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5.9 TRANSPORTATION 5.9.1 Affected Environment 5.9.1.1 Regional Roadway Network Regional access to the Phase I project area is provided by State Route (SR) 1 and U.S. 101. Major roadways serving the Phase I project area include Hueneme Road, Wood Road, South Las Posas Road, Lewis Road, Santa Rosa Road, and Pleasant Valley Road. The preferred pipeline alignment parallels several of these roadways for total of approximately 39,000 feet. Regional access to the Phase II project area is provided by SR 118, SR 1, and U.S. 101. Major County roadways serving the Phase II project area include Lewis Road, Pleasant Valley Road, Santa Rosa Road. The Phase II preferred pipeline alignment parallels Rancho Road, Howard Road, Hitch Blvd., Poindexter Avenue, High Street, East Los Angeles Avenue, Nogales Avenue, Easy Street, Chain Drive, SR 118 and the Union Pacific railroad corridor (See Figures 3-3 through 3-8). Physical characteristics of the major roadways serving the project area, including number of lanes, volume, and Level of Service (LOS) are presented in Table 5.9-1. Alternative pipeline alignments also parallel several of the above-listed roads along with Perkins Road, Arnold Road, and Olds Road within the Phase I project area; and Lewis Road, Pleasant Valley Road, Camino Ruiz, Adolfo Road, Somis Road, Flynn Road, Gabbert Road, and U.S. 101 within the Phase II project area. Existing Traffic Volumes and Levels of Service. Available existing (2000) traffic count data was obtained from the County of Ventura to assess current conditions. This data included vehicles per day (VPD) volumes on roadways listed in Table 5.9-1. At Hitch Blvd, Hueneme Road, Las Posas Road, Lewis Road, Pleasant Valley Road, Santa Rosa Road, and Wood Road vehicles per day counts were conducted by the County in 2000. The VPD counts on each roadway were assigned a LOS classification in Table 5.9-1, based on Ventura County thresholds listed in Table 5.9-2 for Class I roadways (level terrain, meeting County road standards). The most recent available traffic counts (year 2001) were obtained from Caltrans (www.dot.ca.gov/hq/traffops/saferesr/trafdata/2001all) for affected State highways (SR 1, U.S. 101, and SR 118). Average annual daily volumes are presented in Table 5.9-1; however, peak hour volumes were used to determine LOS as per the Highway Capacity Manual (Transportation Research Board 1985).
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Table 5.9-1. Roadway Physical Characteristics
Vehicles Number LOS Roadway Location per Day of Lanes (2000)
Phase I
SR 1 Hueneme Road 4 16,500 A
U.S. 101 Pleasant Valley Road 6 126,000 E
Hueneme Road East of Las Posas Road 2 10,800 D
Wood Road South of Hueneme Road 2 2,100 A
South Las Posas Road South of SR 34 2 13,400 D
Lewis Road South of Pleasant Valley Road 2 9,300 C
Santa Rosa Road West of Las Posas Road East 4 16,300 A
Pleasant Valley Road South of SR 34 2 11,100 D
Phase II
SR 1 Hueneme Road 4 16,500 A
U.S. 101 Pleasant Valley Road 6 124,000 E
Los Angeles Avenue (SR 118) Grimes Canyon Road 2 17,500 E
SR 118 Freeway Madera Road 6 69,000 B
Lewis Road South of Pleasant Valley Road 2 9,300 C
Pleasant Valley Road South of SR 34 2 11,100 D
Santa Rosa Road West of Las Posas Road East 4 16,300 A
Hitch Blvd. South of SR 118 2 2,500 B Sources: Ventura County Public Works Agency, Caltrans
Level of Service Methodology. Level of service (LOS) is a quantitative measure used to describe the condition of traffic flow, ranging from excellent conditions at LOS A to overloaded conditions at LOS FO. LOS definitions are provided in Table 5.9-2 for Class I County roadways. Freeway LOS assignment is very similar, but is based more on travel speeds relative to design speed. LOS is based on a quantitative measurement of traffic volumes known as Average Daily Traffic (ADT) and/or Vehicles Per Day (VPD). These two calculations are considered generally the same since they both result in a count of the total average daily traffic along a specified roadway. These LOS roadway capacities are “rule-of-thumb” only. They are affected by such factors as intersections (number and configuration), degree of access control, roadway grades, design geometrics, truck traffic, directionality of traffic, etc.
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Table 5.9-2. Level of Service (LOS) Definitions
Level of Average Daily Traffic (ADT) Traffic Conditions Service Number of Lanes ADT
2 2.400
Free, uninterrupted low volume flow at high speeds with no restrictions on A 4 19,000 maneuverability (lane changing) and with little or no delays.
6 29,000
2 5,600
B 4 28,000 Stable flow with some restrictions to operating speed occurring.
6 42,000
2 10,000 Stable flow but with speed and maneuverability restricted by higher traffic C 4 38,000 volumes. Satisfactory operating speed for urban locations with some delays at signals. 6 57,000
2 16,000 Approaching unstable flow with tolerable operating speeds subject to D 4 47,000 considerable and sudden variation, little freedom to maneuver and with major delays at signals. 6 70,000
2 27,000
Unstable flow with volume at or near capacity, lower operating speeds and E 4 58,000 major delays and stoppages.
6 87,000
Forced flow operation with low speeds and stoppages for long periods due F - - to congestion. Volumes below capacity.
Forced traffic flow. Speed and flow may drop to zero with high densities. FO - - Delays of 15 minutes to 1 hour. Operating speed less than 20 miles per hour.
5.9.1.2 Railway Corridors In the vicinity of the Phase I project area, railroad corridors are limited to the Ventura County Railroad, which links Port Hueneme to the Union Pacific Railroad in Oxnard. Proposed pipeline segment G-H Alternative A would cross the Ventura County Railroad tracks at Hueneme Road. In the Phase II project area, the Union Pacific Railroad operates tracks from Oxnard, along Fifth Street, along SR 34 (Lewis Road) to Somis, and along SR 118 to Moorpark and Simi Valley. Proposed pipeline segments B-C and C-D (Alternatives A & B only) involve several crossings of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks.
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5.9.2 Environmental Consequences The proposed project would primarily generate vehicle trips during the construction period, associated with delivery of materials and equipment, and worker transportation. Operation and maintenance activities associated with project operation are expected to be limited to a few trips per month and are considered negligible in terms of traffic impacts. 5.9.2.1 Significance Thresholds CMWD has adopted the following significance thresholds for the proposed project, based on the characteristics of project transportation impacts: • Substantially reduce access to residences and businesses; • Substantially alter circulation patterns; • Interfere with the safe operation of transportation facilities; and • Damage transportation facilities. 5.9.2.2 Proposed Action This analysis assumes that up three construction teams may be working simultaneously, with a trip generation of up to 70 one-way truck trips and 30 one-way worker trips per day per team. Although it is assumed that all project-related truck trips are new to the regional roadway network, it is likely that most project-related truck trips would be made by the existing pool of trucks serving the construction industry. As noted in Section 3.6, Project Construction, it is difficult to anticipate the type of construction and associated trip generation rates at each construction site. Likewise, it is difficult to anticipate exactly how far apart each construction team would be working at any one time. However, it is possible that vehicles serving two teams may utilize the same roadways for a few months. This could lead to an increase of 200 VPD (100 per team) for that portion of roadway during the days when the two teams are working close together. Phase I. Construction-related Trips. This portion of the project area would likely be accessed from Rice Road or South Las Posas Road. The addition of 200 ADT would not result in any change in LOS or cause any of the roadways listed in Table 5.9-1 to fall to unacceptable levels (LOS E). Traffic impacts are considered less than significant. Circulation Impacts. Pipeline installation activities may result in lane closures and temporary detours. However, standard traffic control measures from the most current version of “Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction” by Public Works Standards, Inc., with regard to traffic and access (Section 7-10.1), storage of equipment and materials in public streets (Section 7-10.2) and street closures, detours and barricades (Section 7-10.3) would be fully implemented. Affected areas are mostly farmlands, with a few rural residences, and no traffic-dependent businesses. Access to these land uses would be maintained, including emergency access for public services (police and fire). Circulation impacts are considered less than significant.
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Conflicts with Transportation Facilities. As stated in Section 3.6, Project Construction, all roadways disturbed during pipeline installation would be restored to their pre- construction condition. All railroad crossings would be completed through tunneling, such that no impacts to facilities or operations is expected. Restoration of transportation facilities and requirements to minimize conflicts would be enforced through encroachment permits issued by the Ventura County Public Works Agency, affected city public works departments, Caltrans and the Union Pacific Railroad (see Section 5.1.2.2). Compliance with these encroachment permits would result in less than significant impacts to transportation facilities. Phase II. Construction-related Trips. This portion of the project would be accessed from SR 118, Los Angeles Avenue, Somis Road, Lewis Road, Adolfo Road and Pleasant Valley Road. Table 5.9-1 indicates that Los Angeles Avenue and Pleasant Valley Road operate at poor LOS. The project-related addition of a maximum of 200 VPD would not change the LOS of affected roadways, or cause existing roadways to operate at unacceptable LOS. Traffic impacts are considered less than significant. Circulation Impacts. Pipeline installation activities may result in lane closures and temporary detours. Access to residential and commercial areas in Moorpark and western Simi Valley may be reduced. Traffic-dependent businesses along Los Angeles Avenue and High Street may be adversely affected. However, standard traffic control measures from the most current version of “Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction” by Public Works Standards, Inc., with regard to traffic and access (Section 7-10.1), storage of equipment and materials in public streets (Section 7-10.2) and street closures, detours and barricades (Section 7-10.3) would be fully implemented. Implementation of these measures would maintain access through providing alternate routes (detours) and minimizing road closures. In addition, traffic control would be short-term at any one location, with a duration of 2 weeks or less. Emergency access for public services (police and fire) would also be maintained. Circulation impacts are considered less than significant. Conflicts with Transportation Facilities. The discussion under Phase I is applicable to Phase II of the proposed project. Project-related impacts would be less than significant. Cumulative. Other construction projects may occur in close proximity during the construction phase of the proposed project, and may exacerbate circulation impacts and transportation conflicts discussed for Phase I and II. However, coordination with these projects would be achieved through the encroachment permit process, such that cumulative impacts would be less than significant. 5.9.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments The discussion of impacts of the Proposed Action is applicable to these alternatives. 5.9.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall No traffic impacts would occur under this alternative. Beach access at the terminus of Perkins Road would be maintained.
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5.9.3 Mitigation Measures No significant impacts were identified. Therefore, mitigation measures are not required. 5.9.4 Residual Impacts No mitigation measures are necessary. Therefore, residual impacts would be the same as the project impacts discussed in Section 5.9.2. 5.9.5 Federal Findings No Federal findings are required for conflicts with transportation facilities.
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5.10 RISK OF UPSET The focus of this analysis is the failure of the proposed pipeline due to natural events or design flaws, and the subsequent discharge of brine to the environment. Upsets associated with wastewater treatment would be the responsibility of the individual facility operators and are not addressed in this analysis. However, such upsets would likely affect the reverse osmosis process, resulting in discharge of higher quality water (lower total dissolved solids and other constituents) to the proposed pipeline. 5.10.1 Affected Environment Pipeline failure may result in discharge of brine directly into surface waters or into agricultural or urban areas. Discharge to surface waters would degrade surface water quality and aquatic habitat, and adversely affect groundwater quality through infiltration. Discharge to agricultural areas may result in crop losses and may adversely affect groundwater quality through infiltration. Discharge to urban areas may result in property damage and may adversely affect groundwater quality through infiltration. Surface water and groundwater resources are discussed in Section 5.4 of this EIR/EA. Instream biological resources and agricultural resources are discussed in Sections 5.5 and 5.6 of this EIR/EA, respectively. 5.10.2 Environmental Consequences The design of the pipeline has not been completed to date. However, information provided in Section 5.2 (Geology) of this EIR/EA concerning risk of pipeline failure due to fault rupture, subsidence, liquefaction and landslides would be used to design the pipeline to withstand these stresses. Site-specific geotechnical studies would also be completed as discussed in Section 5.2, to facilitate pipeline design. The results of these studies would be used to determine the appropriate pipe material, pipe joint type, pipe bedding, burial depth and related factors to minimize the potential for pipeline failure. Pipeline exposure at stream crossings may also occur and lead to pipeline failure due to erosion and/or impact with debris during storm events. However, these crossings would be installed through tunneling at a safe depth below the streambed and/or encased in steel- reinforced concrete to withstand intermittent exposure. Operating procedures would be developed, including monitoring and inspection methods and requirements. Currently, it is expected that flow meters would be installed at each input to the pipeline and at the diversion structure near the ocean outfall. These flow meters would be monitored to determine the wastewater discharge rate to the ocean, and to help identify the source of pipeline failure (reduced flow rates), should it occur. Valves would be provided at each of the inputs to the pipeline to terminate flow, should a pipe break occur. Each of the facilities that would contribute wastewater to the pipeline would be required to provide several days of storage of treated wastewater, to allow discharge to the pipeline to be terminated while repairs are conducted.
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5.10.2.1 Significance Thresholds The primary impacts associated with pipeline failure are related to water quality. Therefore, any exceedances of water quality objectives in the Water Quality Control Plan are considered significant impacts. In addition, the significance of any secondary impacts to biological resources are assessed based on the significance thresholds discussed in Section 5.5 (Biological Resources). 5.10.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I. Pipeline Failure at Stream Crossings. Pipeline breakage at stream crossings is most probable during storm events, when flow rates are several thousand cubic feet per second (cfs). For example, a storm with a return period of 10 years is estimated to generate a flow of 20,000 cfs in Calleguas Creek near the Lewis Road Crossing. Under these conditions, maximum discharge from a break in the pipeline (7 cfs, Camrosa WRF wastewater only) would be diluted by about 3,000:1, such that any effect on water quality would be negligible and considered a less than significant impact. However, pipeline failure at stream crossings may occur due to the deterioration of the pipe material, or pipe joint failure of undermined pipeline crossings during low flow periods. In addition, breakage may not be detected until storm flow rates have declined, such that dilution ratios may be much less than 3,000:1. Pipeline leakage could also occur through the negligence of other parties, through inadvertent damage during installation of other utilities or flood control structures. Table 5.10-1 provides an assessment of the flow rate, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and ammonia concentrations of wastewater that may be discharged to Calleguas Creek, Revolon Slough, Oxnard Drain or Oxnard Industrial Drain due to a pipeline failure, relative to existing surface flow. Stream flow and water quality data was taken from the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study (LWA 2000), LWA (2001) and Fugro West (1997). Ammonia concentrations sampled quarterly and averaged over the period of 1986 to 1997 were taken from Fugro West (1997) for the sampling stations near proposed pipeline crossings. As shown in Table 5.10-1, treated wastewater from the Camrosa WRF contains lower concentrations of TDS and ammonia than existing surface flow. Therefore, failure of the Phase I pipeline (containing only Camrosa WRF wastewater) would not result in exceedances of water quality objectives. In fact, Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board NPDES Permit No. CA-0059501 authorizes direct discharge of Camrosa WRF effluent into the surface waters of Calleguas Creek. Water quality impacts associated with failure of the Phase I pipeline are considered less than significant. Pipeline failure at stream crossings would also cause erosion of the streambed and banks, and may undermine flood control structures or roadway bridges. However, pipeline failure is most likely to occur within the streambed, and not adjacent to armored banks or bridge abutments. In addition, the discharge would be short-term, with volumes much less than typical storm events. Therefore, erosion-related damage to structures is considered a less than significant impact.
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Table 5.10-1. Characteristics of Discharge to Affected Waterbodies due to Pipeline Failure
Stream Flow Wastewater or Brine Discharge (Low Flow) (Design Flow) Segment Affected Waterbodies TDS Ammonia TDS Ammonia Flow (cfs) Flow (cfs) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L)
Phase I
Calleguas Creek 9.1 930 3.8 F-G 7.0 821 0.1 Revolon Slough 4.4 1,500 est. Unknown
G-H (Alt. A) Oxnard Industrial Drain Unknown 3,450 Unknown 7.0 821 0.1
G-H (Alt. B) Oxnard Drain Unknown 9,000 Unknown 7.0 821 0.1
Phase II
None, no stream A-B crossings
B-C (preferred & Arroyo Simi 11.3 735 10.6 8.7 4,500 95 Alt. A)
Arroyo Las Posas C-D Unknown 1,500 est. Unknown 19.5 (1) 5,000 53 tributaries
D-E1 (Alt. B Calleguas Creek <9.1 1,000 est. 6 est. 19.5 5,000 53 & C)
D-E1 (Alt. B Conejo Creek 2.3 976 8.3 19.5 5,000 53 & C only)
E1-E2 Calleguas Creek <9.1 893 5.6 22.6 (2) 4,900 46
E2-F (Alt. A) Calleguas Creek 9.1 est. 930 5.6 22.6 4,900 46
Calleguas Creek 9.1 930 3.8 F-G 29.6 (3) 3,900 36 Revolon Slough 4.4 1,500 est. Unknown
G-H (Alt. A) Oxnard Industrial Drain Unknown 3,450 0.1 29.6 3,900 36
G-H (Alt. B) Oxnard Drain Unknown 9,000 Unknown 29.6 3,900 36
(1) Includes flow from VCWWD and Santa Rosa wells (2) Includes flow from Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant (3) Includes flow from Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility
Erosion related to pipeline failure could result in the short-term loss of riparian habitat and wetlands. These habitats may support special-status wildlife species. However, as discussed above, the magnitude of discharge would be much less than a typical storm event, which riparian and wetland habitats are adapted to withstand. Therefore, erosion-related loss of riparian habitat and wetlands is considered a less than significant impact. Pipeline Failure due to Geologic Hazards. Section 5.2 (Geology) of this EIR/EA identifies risk of pipeline failure due to subsidence for Phase I, which could result in localized erosion, flooding of agricultural crops, flooding of residential and commercial areas and degradation of groundwater quality through infiltration.
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Erosion may damage private property as well as roadways, utilities and agricultural crops. Flooding of residential and commercial areas may result in damage to private property and landscaping. However, geologic hazards of the project area are common to virtually all pipeline projects in the region, and engineering designs and materials are readily available to prevent pipeline failure. As discussed above, site-specific geotechnical studies would be completed and engineering designs and pipe materials selected to withstand geologic stresses and prevent pipeline failure. Therefore, risk of pipeline failure due to geologic hazards is considered a less than significant impact. Phase II. Pipeline Failure at Stream Crossings. Pipeline breakage at stream crossings is most probable during storm events, when flow rates are several thousand cubic feet per second (cfs). For example, a storm with a return period of 10 years is estimated to generate a flow of 8,500 cfs in Arroyo Las Posas (Natural Resources Conservation Service 1994). Under these conditions, maximum discharge (design flow) from a break in the pipeline would be diluted by 400:1, such that any effect on water quality would be negligible and considered a less than significant impact. However, pipeline failure at stream crossings may occur due to the deterioration of the pipe material, or pipe joint failure of undermined pipeline crossings during low flow periods. In addition, breakage may not be detected until storm flow rates have declined, such that dilution ratios may be much less than 400:1. Pipeline leakage could also occur through the negligence of other parties, through inadvertent damage during installation of other utilities or flood control structures. Table 5.10-1 provides an assessment of the flow rate, TDS and ammonia concentrations of wastewater/brine that may be discharged to a waterbody due to a pipeline failure, relative to existing surface flow. Pipeline discharge rates are based on design flows (100 percent scenario, see Table 3-1), and should be considered maximum values. Stream flow and water quality data was taken from the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study (LWA 2000), LWA (2001) and Fugro West (1997). Ammonia concentrations sampled quarterly and averaged over the period of 1986 to 1997 were taken from Fugro West (1997) for the sampling stations near proposed pipeline crossings. Brine discharge rates, TDS and ammonia concentrations of flows within the pipeline at each crossing are based on LWA (2001), but were consolidated to reflect the contents of the pipeline at various locations. Brine discharge to a waterbody would result in the exceedances of water quality objectives for TDS, chloride, boron, ammonia and chromium (Segments C-D, D-E, E-F only). Beneficial uses would be impaired in the short-term, resulting in a significant impact (Impact RISK-1).
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In addition, biological resources may be adversely affected. Based on combining surface flows and brine discharge provided in Table 5.10-1, discharge to Arroyo Simi from a pipeline failure along Segment B-C would result in TDS concentrations of about 2,370 mg/L and ammonia concentrations of about 42 mg/L. Discharge to Conejo Creek from a pipeline failure along Segment D-E1 would result in TDS concentrations of 4,600 mg/L and ammonia concentrations of 48 mg/L. Discharge to Calleguas Creek from a pipeline failure along Segment D-E1 would result in TDS concentrations of over 3,700 mg/L and ammonia concentrations of over 36 mg/L. Discharge to Calleguas Creek from a pipeline failure along Segment E1-E2 would result in TDS concentrations of over 4,000 mg/L and ammonia concentrations of over 33 mg/L. Discharge to Calleguas Creek from a pipeline failure along Segment F-G would result in TDS concentrations of 3,200 mg/L and ammonia concentrations of 28 mg/L. Discharge to the Oxnard Drain or Oxnard Industrial Drain along Segment G-H would result in ammonia concentrations of near 36 mg/L. Generally, total salinity (TDS) does not adversely affect freshwater fish unless then concentration approaches levels found in body fluids (Alabaster 1980). Body fluid salinity of freshwater fish ranges from 25 to 30 percent of seawater or about 8,750 to 10,500 mg/L TDS. Given that brine discharges to surface waters would be short-term and less than 5,000 mg/L TDS, impacts to fish are considered less than significant. Other aquatic wildlife known from the watershed (treefrog, bullfrog, western toad, pond turtle, garter snakes) are expected to be less sensitive to increases in TDS, and most have the option of leaving affected surface waters, at least for short periods to avoid high TDS. Therefore, impacts to amphibians and aquatic reptiles are considered less than significant. However, ammonia contained in the brine discharge would be dissolved in surface waters as ammonium. Ammonium exists in two forms in water; ammonium ion (NH4+) and ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH). The ammonium ion is converted to nitrate and used by algae and aquatic plants. Ammonium hydroxide is highly toxic to aquatic organisms, especially fish (Trussel 1972). The ratio of ammonium ion to ammonium hydroxide is dependent upon pH and temperature. At high pH, ammonium hydroxide may become toxic to fish. Wastewater within the pipeline would have a similar pH as stream flow (see LWA 2001). However, the massive increase in ammonia is expected to include some increase in ammonium hydroxide, and may result in fish kills. Fish potentially affected include arroyo chub (California Species of Special Concern) in Arroyo Simi, Arroyo Las Posas and Conejo Creek, and tidewater goby (Federal Endangered) in the Oxnard Drain. Impacts to fish are considered significant (Impact RISK-2). Brine discharge to surface waters would also adversely affect groundwater quality through infiltration. Impacts to groundwater would more severe in Segments B-F, where seawater intrusion has not occurred and high TDS levels in the brine would have a greater effect on aquifer TDS concentrations. The severity of potential impacts would be limited by the short time period in which brine discharge would occur (probably a few days), and very small volume as compared to annual stream flow. Therefore, this impact is considered less than significant.
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Pipeline failure at stream crossings would also cause erosion of the streambed and banks, and may undermine flood control structures, railroad or roadway bridges. However, pipeline failure is most likely to occur within the streambed, and not adjacent to armored banks or bridge abutments. In addition, the discharge would be short-term, with volumes much less than typical storm events. Therefore, erosion-related damage to structures is considered a less than significant impact. Erosion related to pipeline failure could result in the short-term loss of riparian habitat and wetlands. These habitats support special-status wildlife species, including the endangered least Bell’s vireo. However, as discussed above, the magnitude of discharge would be much less than a typical storm event, which riparian and wetland habitats are adapted to withstand. Therefore, erosion-related loss of riparian habitat and wetlands is considered a less than significant impact. Pipeline Failure due to Geologic Hazards. Section 5.2 (Geology) of this EIR/EA identifies risk of pipeline failure due to fault rupture, subsidence, liquefaction and landslides. As discussed in Section 5.2, fault rupture and landslides are considered a hazard to Segments A-B, B-C, D-E; subsidence is considered a hazard to Segments E-F, F-G, G-H, and liquefaction is considered a hazard to Segments C-D and E-F. These geologic hazards could cause pipeline failure, resulting in localized erosion, flooding of agricultural crops, flooding of residential and commercial areas and degradation of groundwater quality through infiltration. Erosion may damage private property as well as roadways, utilities and agricultural crops. Flooding of agricultural crops may lead to direct crop losses due to high TDS levels, and future loss of productivity due to salt accumulation in soils. Flooding of residential and commercial areas may result in damage to private property and landscaping. However, geologic hazards of the project area are common to virtually all pipeline projects in the region, and engineering designs and materials are readily available to prevent pipeline failure. As discussed above, site-specific geotechnical studies would be completed and engineering designs and pipe materials selected to withstand geologic stresses and prevent pipeline failure. Therefore, risk of pipeline failure due to geologic hazards is considered a less than significant impact. Cumulative. Other public works projects (pipelines, fiber optic cables, flood control structures) may be implemented at stream and roadway crossings of the proposed pipeline system. Construction of these projects may increase the risk of upset (pipeline failure) of the proposed project through negligence. However, these projects would not result in any new impacts or alter the significance of any impacts identified for the proposed project. 5.10.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments The discussion of impacts associated with the proposed action are applicable to the alternative pipeline alignments. In addition, pipeline failure at the Oxnard Industrial Drain crossing (Segment G-H Alternative A) would adversely affect the endangered tidewater goby, possibly resulting in fish kills and extirpating this species from this drainage. Tidewater goby may also occur in the Oxnard Drain (Edison Canal), and may be similarly impacted by pipeline failures at the proposed crossing (Segment G-H Alternative B).
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5.10.2.4 Alternative Ocean Outfall The alternative pipeline alignment would terminate at, and discharge into the existing outfall used by the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant. Risk of upset associated with using this outfall would be limited to pipe failure of the existing outfall, resulting in discharge to the ocean prior to the dilution ports at the outfall terminus, causing reduced dilution. Reduced dilution would increase the concentration of constituents, resulting in greater water quality impacts. However, the outfall is inspected regularly by the City of Oxnard, and appears in good condition. Therefore, the proposed project would not increase risk of upset of the existing outfall. 5.10.2.5 No Action Alternative The No Action Alternative would not involve any physical change such that no risk of upset would occur. 5.10.3 Mitigation Measures 5.10.3.1 Proposed Action Phase I. No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation is not necessary. Phase II. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce potential risk of upset impacts: MM RISK-1. All pipeline stream crossings shall be inspected by CMWD within 24 hours of the termination of a major storm event (return period of 5 years or greater). Flow to the affected segment shall be terminated within 4 hours upon the observation of any leakage. Exposure of the pipeline or damage (not causing leakage) shall be evaluated by CMWD within one week of observation to determine the need for repairs or protection of the pipeline to prevent future failure. MM RISK-2. Flow meters shall be installed near or at the diversion structure to monitor total flow in the pipeline. Flow rates shall be continuously recorded and shall be monitored by CMWD within 24 hours of a major storm event to detect changes in flow associated with storm-related pipeline failure. 5.10.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. No significant impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation is not necessary. Phase II. Mitigation measured provided above for the Proposed Action are applicable to the alternative pipeline alignments. 5.10.3.3 Alternative Ocean Outfall No risk of upset impacts were identified; therefore, mitigation measures are not necessary.
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5.10.4 Residual Impacts 5.10.4.1 Proposed Action Phase I. No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant. Phase II. Implementation of the measures described above would reduce impacts related to risk of upset to a less than significant level. 5.10.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. No significant impacts were identified; therefore, residual impacts would be less than significant. Phase II. Implementation of the measures described above would reduce impacts related to risk of upset to a less than significant level. 5.10.5 Federal Findings No Federal findings are required for risk of upset.
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5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES 5.11.1 Affected Environment 5.11.1.1 Regional Setting Prehistory. The general 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. Ventura County is within the historic territory of the Ventureño Chumash. The archaeological record indicates that sedentary populations occupied the coastal regions of California more than 9,000 years ago. Several chronological frameworks have been developed for the Chumash region including Rogers (1929), Wallace (1955), Harrison (1964), Warren (1968), and 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. King’s Early Period extends from approximately 8000 to 3350 Before Present (B.P.). This time frame roughly corresponds with Rogers’ Oak Grove Culture and Wallace’s Millingstone Horizon. The Early Period, is characterized by the use of large flake and core tools, millingstones and handstones, combined with a lack of bone and shell tools, ornamentation, and refuse. The millingstones indicate grinding of hard seeds, probably gathered from sage plants. Mortars and pestles, which indicate acorn grinding, were not widely used until late in the Early Period (Glassow et al. 1985). Early Period settlements appear to represent the remains of residential base camps and were usually located on hilltops or knolls (Glassow and Wilcoxon 1988). Cemeteries are associated with permanent settlements. King’s Middle Period extends from approximately 3350 to 800 B.P. This period correlates with Rogers’ and Harrison’s Hunting People, and Wallace’s Intermediate Horizon. This period is characterized 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. The shift to the predominance of mortar and pestle for milling tools indicates increased exploitation and dependence on acorns (Glassow and Wilcoxon 1988). Inherited leadership and status differentiation with religious specialists, as evidenced by mortuary data, were all social aspects of the Middle Period. Villages of this period were more permanently occupied and some satellite sites became differentiated in size and purpose. Middle Period sites are distinguishable into sub-phases by different types of bead and projectile points along with other diagnostic artifacts. Middle Period sites tend to be small and often contain artifacts that are lighter in weight and more portable than those from earlier sites.
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King’s Late Period extends from approximately 850 to 180 B.P. and corresponds with Rogers’ Canalino/Chumash and Wallace’s Late Prehistoric Horizon. The Late Period is marked by a dramatic increase in population. The development of a highly effective maritime subsistence pattern during this period, comprised of exploitation of fish, shellfish, sea mammals, and waterfowl, enabled villages of nearly 1,000 individuals to cluster in areas along the coast, although 100-200 was more typical. These were the most populous aboriginal settlements west of the Mississippi River (Morrato 1984). Permanent inland settlements subsisted from a variety of resources including an abundance of acorns, seed plants, rabbits, and deer. The smaller inland villages were economically allied with the larger coastal villages. The Chumash villages, also known as rancherias, were usually situated near the confluence of watercourses and/or habitats. The full development of Chumash culture, one of the most socially and economically complex hunting and gathering groups in North America, occurred during the Late Period (Arnold 1987). The Chumash were very advanced in their culture, social organization, religious beliefs, and art and material object production (Morrato 1984). Class differentiation, inherited chieftainship, and intervillage alliances were all components of Chumash society. Historical accounts of the Chumash began in the diaries of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, who recorded a village (CA-VEN-3/Shisholop) near the present day Ventura County fairgrounds. Spain began to colonize Alta California in 1769. Between 1772 and 1804, the Missions San Buenaventura, Santa Bárbara, San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, La Purísima Conceptión and Santa Ynez were built in Chumash territory. The Spanish missionaries began a program of converting the Chumash to Christianity, baptizing them, and moving them into missions. 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 Chumash population had been decimated by disease and declining birthrates. Population loss as a result of disease and economic deprivation continued into the next century. Still today many people proudly claim Chumash ancestry and take an active interest in promoting their culture and protecting archaeological evidence of their ancestors. Based on ethnographic data, Applegate (1975) and King (1994) have identified the following historically referenced Chumash placenames within the general project vicinity. 1. Ihsha, meaning ashes, is a village site located at the mouth of the Santa Clara River. 2. Iswey, translation “the cut”, is at the mouth of the Santa Clara River. 3. Kamaqakmu is an unknown feature north of Oxnard. 4. Kanaputeknan is a historic village located near the mouth of the Santa Clara River. 5. Kasunalmu translates as sending place and represents a historic village located near Union High just west of Oxnard. 6. Lalimanuh is a village on Calleguas Creek located northeast of Pt. Mugu. 7. Lulapin is the name for Pt. Mugu. 8. Luna is an undiscovered location of Calleguas Creek.
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9. Malhohshi is an unknown feature near present day Oxnard. 10. Maliti is an unknown location northeast of Oxnard. 11. Muwu is a village/rancheria that was located near the shore of Mugu Lagoon and was an important Chumash capitol and ceremonial center. Muwu served as the center of Lulapin, a Chumash chiefdom that included the Oxnard Plain (W & S Consultants 1996). The interpretation of Muwu is "beach". 12. Satwiwa, thought to mean bluff, is a village on Rancho Guadalasca located north of Mugu. 13. Shalikuwewech, meaning it is piled up, is a place north of Point Mugu. 14. Shishlomow is a place just south of Hueneme. 15. Simo'mo village/rancheria is located inland from Mugu Lagoon. The translation of Simo'mo is "the saltbush patch". 16. Sitiptip is a lagoon above the Hueneme Wharf. 17. Swini represents an unknown location near the present day City of Oxnard. 18. Tipipsheshmu is an unknown feature on the Oxnard Plain. 19. Wene'mu translates as "sleeping place" and is located at present day Hueneme. Wene'mu was a temporary camp that was used as a rest stop for canoe trips to and from Anacapa Island. History. The first European contact in Ventura County occurred in 1542 when Cabrillo anchored off what is the present day City of San Buenaventura. Over 50 years later in 1595, Sebastian Rodriguez Cermeno sailed through the Santa Barbara Channel. The next documented European expedition to land in the area was Sebastian Vizcaino in 1602. Over one hundred and fifty years passed before the next major European expedition reached Ventura County. In 1769, Gaspar de Portola departed the newly established San Diego settlement and marched northward toward Monterey with the objective of securing the port and establishing five missions along the alignment. They passed through present-day Ventura County that same year. The 1774 expedition of Juan Baptista de Anza followed Portola’s alignment. The Portola and Anza Expeditions were preludes to Spanish colonization of California. Mexico gained its independence from Spain in 1822, and fourteen years later the Missions were secularized and their lands granted as rewards for loyal service or in response to an individual’s petition. The proposed pipeline alignment and alternatives, cross the historic territory of two Mexican land grants, Ranchos El Rio de Santa Clara O'La Colonia and Guadalasca. The Mexican Period ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hildago in 1848, which transferred control of California, New Mexico, Texas, and other western properties to the United States.
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During the early American Period, the Rancho lands were sold off and cattle ranching continued to be a major economic activity in the project region. The Rancho El Rio de Santa Clara O'La Colonia lands were first cultivated by Christian Borchard in 1867, who planted the first American grain in Ventura County (Wlodarski 1999:12). With the drilling of artesian wells in 1871 and the construction of the Port Hueneme Wharf, the Oxnard Plain quickly developed into a major agricultural region. Early crops grown on the Oxnard Plain emphasized lima beans, corn, barley, flax, and wheat. Sugar beets became the major crop in the area following the construction of a large sugar beet factory by the Oxnard brothers on a flat stretch of lightly populated agricultural land known as Rancho La Colonia in 1897. Following the completion of the sugar beet factory and railroad spur, a townsite was developed and named in honor of the Oxnard brothers (Triem 1985). The City of Oxnard was incorporated in 1903. Since the turn of the century, the Oxnard Plain, as well as the region immediately surrounding and including the Phase I study area have remained an area of important agricultural activities. The 1904 U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 15' Port Hueneme quadrangle map shows the entire length of Hueneme Road within the study area. Arnold Road and Perkins Roads are also shown, but both extend only a portion of their current length. Perkins Road is shown as a dirt road. There are lagoons south of Perkins Road and Arnold Road. There are 25 structures shown along the various Phase I pipeline alignments. The structures are well spaced and not clustered, indicative of farmhouses and barns. The 1943 USGS 15' Port Hueneme quadrangle map both Perkins Road and Arnold Road at their current length. The lagoon seen at the southern end of Perkins Road in the 1904 map is no longer shown and was apparently filled. The southern end of Arnold Road is shown as extending into a salt marsh. The 1943 map includes railroad tracks, which cross Hueneme Road just east of Saviers Road and then head west toward Port Hueneme. There are 38 structures shown along the various Phase I pipeline alignments, including Ocean View School, indicating a growing population in the general area. For the most part the structures remain well spaced and not clustered, indicative of the agricultural prominence in the area. There is a small cluster of five structures around the intersection of Hueneme Road and Alternative Highway Route 101, which based on the current survey observations, included migrant housing, a store and motel. The 1950 USGS 7.5' Camarillo quadrangle map and 1949 USGS 7.5' Oxnard quadrangle map show over 50 structures along the various Phase I pipeline alignments. Most of the structures continue to be spaced out along Hueneme Road with small clusters of buildings where Hueneme Road crosses the Ventura County Railway and Alternative Highway Route 101. The most notable changes on the 1967 USGS 7.5' Camarillo and Oxnard quadrangle maps is the urban development west of Saviers Road on the north side of Hueneme Road and industrial development along Perkins Road south of the railroad tracks, including a sewage and paper plant.
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The western most portion of the Phase I project area is located within the City of Oxnard and has seen increased commercial and industrial development replacing farmland along Hueneme Road, Perkins Road and Edison Road over the last 50 years. Most of the Phase I pipeline alignments traverse prime farmland, the majority of which is and has been in agricultural production for several decades. All of the Phase I alignments have been disturbed by agricultural activity, drainage alteration, road construction or development. 5.11.1.2 Site Specific Setting A record search was conducted at the South Central Coastal Information Center housed at California State University Fullerton on June 11 and 25, 2001. The record search encompassed the 300-foot-wide environmental assessment corridor for the Proposed Action and alternative pipeline alignments for both Phase I and Phase II. This 300-foot-wide corridor represents the area that may be affected by pipeline installation, and is defined as the Area of Potential Effect (APE) for the purposes of this cultural resource impact assessment. However, the formal APE required under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 would be based on the actual impact area once pipeline alignments have been finalized, which would generally be only about 75 feet wide. Conejo Archaeological Consultants completed an archaeological survey of the Phase I portion of the pipeline alignments (Proposed Action, Alternatives A & B) in June and July 2001. Additional information was provided by the Native American Heritage Commission, through Native American Consultation, and from historical map research conducted at the University of California, Santa Barbara Map and Imagery Library. Phase I. There have been 28 archaeological surveys within a one-quarter mile radius of the Phase I Proposed Action and alternative pipeline alignments, most of which traverse prime agricultural land that has been row cropped for nearly a century. The most recent survey was conducted by Conejo Archaeological Consultants in June and July 2001 for the proposed project and covered an approximate 300-foot wide corridor where feasible for each alternative. Four prehistoric sites, one redeposit and two historic sites are recorded within a one- quarter mile radius of the Phase I proposed pipeline alternatives. Conejo Archaeological Consultants (2001) also identified some areas that should be considered sensitive for cultural resources although no sites have been previously recorded at these locations. Based on ethnographic information Round Mountain is identified as an important Chumash shrine site. General descriptions of the sites and Round Mountain are provided below: Prehistoric Archaeological Sites CA-VEN-174/Round Mountain was recorded by King in 1967 and was described as a “shell midden occupying a steep sided spur”. King estimated the site area at 150 x 50 feet with a depth of approximately 12 inches. Artifacts noted at the site consisted of a flower pot mortar, core tools, knife, flake scrapers, projectile point, and a bone awl. CA-VEN-174 was originally recorded along a south slope of Round Mountain.
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In 1998, Wlodarski and Larson (1998) updated the CA-VEN-174 site boundaries to include the entire topographic feature of Round Mountain and state that “Although grading of the top has eliminated potential features such as sleeping circles, beads and artifacts, it retains its importance due to the fact that it was probably a summer solstice observation point, and this direct association with Boney Mountain to the east is still present. In addition, the presence of a midden component on the south further enhances the importance of this resource.” Round Mountain is located immediately southwest of the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility. Ethnographic references to Round Mountain include: (Quoted directly from Romani 1994:8,9) – “John P. Harrington (n.d.), recorded an entry in his notes regarding a Chumash place name known as Satwiwa. His entry reads “The big detached hill 2 miles distant from the shore at Lulapin is called Satwiwa…This name means “independent.” A cryptic hand written notation, possibly written by Steve Horn (although it is presently unclear), further reads “Mountain above Mugu said to be place of shrine…possibly shrine of all the Lulapin.” Steve Horn (n.d.), located a Harrington account taken from one of his informants, possibly Luis Francisco from Saticoy. The account reads as follows: “Satwiwa is the Indian name of a little hill where the founder of this place was Jose Alfares Ortega [name unclear]. It is a place there like a round hill-like a [castle!], and for that reason it is called in Sp. “Un Morro”. Some springs are there yet. Where the original house was. The Indian name Satwiwa means in Sp. [?Morro?]. This place is back from the ocean, back from Pt. Mugu. It is a Indian village at Morro- only the Indian workers of old Ortega lived there.” Based on these accounts, it would appear that Round Mountain best fits the Satwiwa place name, and moreover, represented an important Chumash shrine site. CA- VEN-174/Round Mountain is not located within the APE of the Proposed Action or alternative alignments. CA-VEN-555 (a & b) was recorded by D’Altroy, Baksh and Bove in 1978, who describe it as “Two distinct areas with a light shell scatter…All shell appeared to be weathered Pismo clam”. Twelve years later Steven Schwartz (1990) reported that he was unable to relocate CA-VEN-555 and notes “The area does have some shell, but shell appears to be natural beach deposit”. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-555 is located outside, but immediately south of the APE (Segment F-G Alternative Alignment B). CA-VEN-662 was first recorded by Van Valkenberg in 1933 and later by Horne and Craig in 1979 who described it as a “poorly developed midden deposit situated on a slight rise east of the extinct “Shishlomo” estuary”. Van Valkenberg’s 1933 field notes state that “It is possible this site may be Weneme-me ---meaning temporary camp, and supplied neophytes to the Mission San Buenaventura”. Horne and Craig (1979a) also note “This is a very important site”. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-662 is located about one-quarter mile west of the APE (Segment G-H Alternative A).
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CA-VEN-863 was recorded by Brock and Harris in 1987 and is described as “a major shell midden with associated artifacts”. The site area was estimated at 350 x 225 meters with an unknown depth. Artifacts observed included ground stone and chipped stone. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-863 is located northeast of Round Mountain, or approximately 2,000 from the APE (Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility, terminus of pipeline segments E-F and F-G). Redeposit FW-1 was recorded by Fugro West in 1994. It consisted of scattered marine shell, one quartz flake and one obsidian core. The FW-1 redeposit area has been subject to both excavation and dump activities. The fill observed by Fugro had been trucked in from agricultural fields located closer to the coast, following flood related clean-up activities. Since FW-1 had no spatial integrity it is not considered a significant resource and is ineligible for National Register of Historic Places listing. This redeposit site is located within the APE (Segment F-G, Proposed Action and Alternative A), but was buried by fill associated with the construction of the new Hueneme Road Bridge. Historic Archaeological Sites CA-VEN-664H consists of the remains of 20th century farm buildings located east of Perkins Road, recorded by Horne and Craig in 1979(b). The former buildings apparently dated between 1949 to 1967 based on USGS 7.5' Oxnard quadrangle map. Horne and Craig estimate that approximately 90 percent of the site was destroyed. Features and materials noted included a cistern, clusters of irrigation pipe and bricks, irrigation tile, ceramics, glass, and one handmade shell button. Shell fragments and butchered cow bones were also observed. W & S Consultants (1991:23) re-examined CA-VEN-664H and noted "Examination of this site during the survey determined that it has been completely destroyed by modern industrial development, and now lies under a paved parking lot and factory building." CA-VEN-664H was not evaluated for National Register of Historic Places eligibility. However, as it is documented as being destroyed, CA-VEN-664H does not meet National Register of Historic Places eligibility requirements. The westernmost boundary of CA-VEN-664H's original location is located within the APE (Segment G- H Alternative Alignment A). CMWD-1H was recorded by Conejo Archaeological Consultants (2001) as a light, but wide scatter of historic materials along the Alternative A alignment. The site is located within the APE (Segment F-G Alternative A), just east of the Revolon Slough in the Edison rights-of-way within an agricultural field. Materials observed included glass dating back to the early 1900s, clay pipe fragments, an old wrench (~1930s), cut cow bone, white Bone China fragments, and white with blue design porcelain fragments, two links of rusted iron chain, and a few mussel and clam shells. The materials observed have pushed around from decades of farming activity. They may represent a historic dumpsite or materials that were washed down and deposited by the Revolon Slough. This historic deposit has not been evaluated for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Sacred Sites A sacred sites file check was conducted by Rob Wood of the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) on July 9, 2001. No sacred lands were identified within or adjacent to the Phase I project area. Round Mountain has not been evaluated as a scared site within the definition of Executive Order 13007. However, this site may be considered a sacred site. Other Culturally Sensitive Areas/Sites These areas are defined as locations where archeological sites have not been recorded, but prehistoric activity of Native Americans is known or indirect evidence (re- deposited artifacts) has been found. Cultural deposits are likely to occur in these areas, but may be buried and not visible on the surface. All three Segment G-H alternatives (Edison Road, Perkins Road and Arnold Road) (see Figure 3-4) are located in close proximity to and/or cross historic estuaries (USGS 15’ Hueneme quadrangle map, 1904, reproduced 1947). Archaeological sites are frequently located in the vicinity of estuaries as they provided a wide variety of both flora and faunal resources that were utilized by the aboriginal inhabitants of the area. From 6054 Arnold Road south to the road's terminus, there is a large drainage ditch along the east side of the road. On the east side of the ditch there is a dirt berm. It is likely that most of the dirt for the berm came from the adjacent ditch, although it may also include soil pushed up from neighboring agricultural fields and/or some imported dirt. Within this berm numerous marine shell fragments were noted along with one chert flake. The flake showed no signs of retouch. Historic debris including porcelain and purple glass, and butchered cow bone, along with modern trash was also noted scattered along the length of the berm. The chert flake, Isolate -1, was obviously relocated to its current position atop the berm. The flake and historic debris noted in the berm and have no stratigraphic integrity and, therefore, have lost their ability to answer scientific questions. However, they do indicate an increased likelihood of project construction potentially finding buried cultural resources along this alignment. The shell was primarily Pismo calm (Tivela stultorum) and Chione sp. and are most likely the result of natural deposition. Light industrial development is located along the west side of Perkins Road. No prehistoric or historic materials were observed along this road, but it is near a historic estuary and within a quarter mile of archaeological site CA-VEN-662. The vicinity of the Perkins Road and Hueneme Road intersection is considered culturally sensitive to local Native American Chumash as two or three burials were reportedly found approximately 300 feet west of the intersection (Hernandez, personal communication). Listed Historic Properties The National Register of Historic Places does not list any properties within or adjacent to any of the Phase I pipeline alignments (National Park Service 2001). There are no California Historic Landmarks (California Department of Parks and Recreation 1996) within or adjacent to any of the Phase I pipeline alignments.
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The Office of Historic Preservation’s 2001 Historic Property Data File for Ventura County lists no significant historic properties within or adjacent to any of the Phase I pipeline alignments. Ventura County (1997) lists one Historical Landmark (No. 86; Gerberding/Moranda House), located about three blocks north of the Segment G-H Alternative A alignment on East Clara Street. Primary and Building Records (56-150027 and 56-150028) are on file at the South Central Coastal Information Center for two structures located at 2275 and 2281 East Hueneme Road (Old Ocean View School and Eastwood Home). Both structures were determined ineligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Several structures including single family homes, barns, fruit stands, well pump houses and concrete stand pipes are located within the 300 foot corridor surveyed along the Proposed Action and alternative pipeline alignments, with most of them being located adjacent to Hueneme Road, the Proposed Action pipeline alignment (Segment F-G) (Conejo Archaeological Consultants 2001). Many of these structures are over 50 years old and, thereby, potentially eligible for listing on the National Register. However, eligibility will require that other criteria be met. Phase II. Due to the lack of certainty regarding the final pipeline alignments, no field surveys were conducted of the areas that would be affected by the proposed Phase II facilities. However, there have been approximately 120 archaeological surveys/excavations/reports within one-quarter mile of the Phase II Proposed Action and alternative alignments. Seventeen prehistoric and two historic archaeological sites are recorded within a one-quarter mile radius of the Phase II pipeline alignments. Based on past Native American consultation, the cupule rock from CA-VEN-786 is considered an important ceremonial site. General descriptions of the archaeological sites are provided below: Prehistoric Archaeological Sites
CA-VEN-95 was recorded by Boyer and Craig (1967) as a light scatter of chipping waste on a bank of Alamos Creek. A tarring pebble, a few flakes and one tri-facial mano were observed. Leonard (1975a) describes the site as covering an area of approximately 400 by 150 feet. Leonard noted quartzite flakes and cores, and fire affected rock with the highest concentration of material in the northern half of the site. Kuhn nominated the site for listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, but National Register status was denied. Kuhn updated the site record in 1980 and noted numerous cores, manos, flakes, hammer stones and fused shale flakes. CA-VEN-95 is located within the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action and Alternative A).
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CA-VEN-96 probably represents the village site of Shimiyi, a relatively permanent village that was occupied for perhaps as long as 1,000 years. This is the major Chumash village for the Simi Valley area, for which the valley is named. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA- VEN-96 is located on the opposite side of Arroyo Simi of the APE of the Proposed Action or alternatives. CA-VEN-225 was recorded by the Kings in 1970. It was situated on a stream terrace near the confluence of Happy Camp Canyon and Arroyo Simi. Excavation confirmed the existence of a small campsite with a low occupation density (Lopez 1981). CA- VEN-225 was apparently destroyed by construction activities (Wlodarski 1986). This Site is not located within the APE of the Proposed Action or alternatives. CA-VEN-227 was recorded by the Kings in 1970. It was situated on the south side of Arroyo Simi approximately one mile east of Moorpark. CA-VEN-227 consisted of three artifacts recorded on the side of a hill. The Kings indicated that the site would probably be destroyed by highway construction. Wlodarski (1986) stated that CA- VEN-227 was apparently destroyed. This Site is not located within the APE of the Proposed Action or alternatives. CA-VEN-228 is located on a knoll north of the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant and State Route 118. The site was recorded by King and Decker (1970) as a scatter of artifacts consisting of 1 mano, 1 core tool and 1 fused shale flake. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-228 is located in close proximity, but not within the APE (Segment B-C Alternative B). CA-VEN-340 was recorded by Leonard in 1975 on a sandy terrace on the north bank of Arroyo Simi just upstream from the confluence of Arroyo Simi and Brea Canyon. The site is part of a complex of three Late Period villages located at the western end of Simi Valley. Salvage excavations for a portion of this village suggest that the site may date to the early Late Horizon (Leonard 1976). The site was heavily impacted by construction in the 1970s. The center of the site was bulldozed and graded, leaving only the lower portion of a mortuary feature (with at least five individuals) and a limited amount of village deposit intact. The bulk of this deposit was used for fill in adjacent lots. The remaining intact deposit should be considered extremely important (Leonard 1976). This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-340 is located in very close proximity, but not within the APE (Segment A-B). CA-VEN-342 was recorded by Leonard (1975b) as a probable temporary processing camp. It is located east of the Simi Valley dewatering wells. The previous site designation was CA-VEN-226. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-342 is located north of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks and about 1,000 feet from the APE (Segment A-B).
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CA-VEN-343 was recorded by Leonard (1975c) as a scatter of approximately 200 small flakes over the top of a knoll. The site is located east of the Simi Valley dewatering wells. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-343 is located north of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks and about 1,000 feet from the APE (Segment A-B). CA-VEN-344 was recorded by Leonard (1975d) as a scatter of lithic debris over the slope and summit of a knoll, which is located east of the Simi Valley dewatering wells. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-344 is located north of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks and about 1,500 feet from the APE (Segment A-B). CA-VEN-631 was recorded in a cultivated field 500 meters west of Arroyo Los Posas in 1979. It consists of a core concentration of cultural materials measuring 175 by 250 feet, surrounded by an area of moderate concentration. The surface component of this site has been disturbed by agricultural activity and the subsurface component is unknown. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-631 is located within or in very close proximity to the APE (Segment C-D Proposed Action and Alternative B). CA-VEN-643 consists of a light density lithic scatter. The knoll on which this site is situated was bisected by a 40-foot deep cut for railroad construction. The cut destroyed the majority of the site but left two small intact strips on either side of the Union Pacific Railroad rights-of-way (Dames & Moore 1988). This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-643 is located within the APE (Segment A-B). CA-VEN-693 consists of a surface lithic scatter that was recorded by Kuhn in 1980, who notes the "Site may represent wash from hilltop that was graded several decades ago. The hilltop was graded again in 1979." This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-693 is located within the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action). CA-VEN-786 was recorded as an artifact scattering containing two topographically distinct loci by Romani and Romani (1984). Numerous artifacts were associated with the site including flakes, flake tools, groundstone, hammerstones, and cores. A limited subsurface testing program was conducted in 1985 to determine the site's western boundary. A site visit by Caltrans in 1986 discovered that CA-VEN-786 had suffered considerable loss (approximately 43%) by the excavation of a borrow pit on the east side of the site. Greenwood and Associates were retained to evaluate the borrow pit damage and make recommendations (Wlodarski and Romani 1986). Greenwood and Associates limited excavation determined that CA-VEN-786's remaining deposits still have the potential to contribute to the resolution of many significant research questions relevant to the other sites in the area including settlement patterns of the Ventura region, internal site structure, and other problems which transcend the immediate site boundaries.
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Greenwood and Associates also discovered a cupule boulder, not recorded by previous investigators, which appeared to have been pushed off the site area into the bottom of a small canyon. The face of the boulder contains 16 small round to oval ground pits or cupules, variable in size from 5 to 8 centimeters with a depth of 2 to 6 centimeters. In addition to the cupules there are two well defined mortars in the concentration of the cupules. The cupule boulder is evidence for ceremonial or ritual activity at this site (Wlodarski and Romani 1986). Chumash consultant Melissa Hernandez indicated that the rain rock (cupule rock) associated with CA-VEN-786 is a sacred ceremonial site (Conejo Archeological Consultants, 2001). This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA- VEN-786 is located about 1,000 feet from the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action and Alternative A). CA-VEN-864 was recorded in 1987 as a very sparse lithic scatter consisting of "two chips of fused shale and two pieces of marine shell" (Parker 1987a). Based on a limited subsurface test program, which resulted in no evidence of subsurface deposits, Parker (1987b) evaluated CA-VEN-864 as an insignificant cultural deposit. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-864 is located near the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant, and appears to be within the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action and Segment C-D Proposed Action and Alternative B). CA-VEN-898 was recorded by Wlodarski and Larson in 1995 as a light lithic scatter representing a possible temporary, special use, limited activity area. Arroyo Simi lies below this site to the north. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-898 is located about 1,000 feet from the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action and Alternative A). CA-VEN-1089 was recorded by Neuenschwander and Olgesby in 1991. The site consists of a sparse shell and burnt bone scatter with an associated circular mano/abrader. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-1089 is located in a plowed field adjacent to north edge of Union Pacific Railroad rights-of-way and south of State Route 118. CA-VEN-1089 is located within the APE (Segment C-D Alternative A). CA-VEN-1341 was recorded by Simon and Whitley in 1996 as a subsurface archaeological deposit, possibly midden, within an existing recycling facility. Phase II testing was conducted at this site by W & S Consultants in 1997, and no archeological artifacts were found. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-1341 is located within the APE (Segment A-B).
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Historic Archaeological Sites CA-VEN-661H is the site of a former blacksmith shop erected ca. 1892. Callison recorded it as vacant lot with remnants of foundations and broken cement slab in poor condition in 1980. The Site is located at the intersection of Rice Street and Somis Road in Somis, and has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-661H is located within the APE (Segment C-D Alternative A). CA-VEN-862H is a historic refuse deposit dating from the 1910s through the 1930s. It represents either a dump area or the material was redeposited during road grading activities. Brock and Harris recorded the site at the intersection of Calleguas Creek and Pleasant Valley Road in 1987. This Site has not been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. CA-VEN-862H is located within the APE (Segment D-E2 Proposed Action and Alternative A). Sacred Sites A sacred sites file check was conducted by Rob Wood of the Native American Heritage Commission on July 9, 2001. No sacred lands were identified within or adjacent to the Phase II project area. However, Chumash Consultant Melissa Hernandez indicated that the "rain rock" (cupule rock) associated with CA-VEN-786 is a sacred ceremonial site (Maki 2001). This site has not been formally reported and is not in it’s historic location. Therefore, this cupule rock may not qualify as a sacred site under Executive Order 13007. In any case, this site is not located in proximity to the project APE. Listed Historic Properties
The listings of the National Register of Historic Places includes two properties, Colony House and Simi Adobe-Strathearn House, within one-quarter mile of the project pipeline alignments (National Park Service 2001). Both properties are located at 137 Strathearn Place in Strathearn Historical Park. Neither property is located in close proximity to the APE. There is one California Historic Landmark, No. 979 Rancho Simi, within one-quarter mile of the project site (California Department of Parks and Recreation 1996). This landmark is located in Strathearn Historical Park and is not located in close proximity to the APE. At least five structures in the Virginia Colony of Moorpark have been recorded (152750, 152751, 152752, 152753, & 152754) by the South Central Coastal Information Center, indicating they may have been evaluated for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. Unfortunately, no site record forms were available, so it is unknown if these structures were evaluated as significant or insignificant, if evaluated at all. These structures are located in close proximity to the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action and Alternative A). The State Office of Historic Preservation’s 2001 Historic Property Data File for Ventura County lists several properties that have been evaluated within the Camarillo, Somis, Moorpark, and Simi area within a few blocks of the various proposed pipeline alignments. However, no significant historic properties have been identified within or adjacent to the proposed pipeline alignments.
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Ventura County (1997) lists the following 10 landmarks within one-quarter mile of the Phase II pipeline alignments: • No. 6 - Simi Adobe. This landmark is located in Strathearn Historical Park in Simi, and is not located in proximity to the APE. • No. 40 - Simi Library. This landmark is located in Strathearn Historical Park and is not located in proximity to the APE. • No. 41 - Haigh/Tally Colony House. This landmark was moved to Strathearn Historical Park and is not located in proximity to the APE. • No. 55 - Methodist Church. This landmark is located at 702 Walnut Street in Moorpark. This structure is located about 500 feet from the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action and Alternative B). • No. 72- Pepper Trees. These landmark trees are located along High Street in Moorpark and are located within the APE (Segment B-C Proposed Action and Alternative B). • No. 85 - Somis Thursday Clubhouse. This landmark is located at 5380 Bell Street in Somis. It is located within or in close proximity to the APE (Segment C- D Alternative A). • No. 91 - Chumash Village of Shimiji. This landmark is located in Strathearn Historical Park and is not located in proximity to the APE. • No. 93 - Wood Ranch Barns. This landmark is located in Strathearn Historical Park and is not located in proximity to the APE. • No. 128 - Fulkerson Hardware. This landmark is located at 3403 Somis Road in Somis, and is within the APE (Segment C-D Alternative A). • No. 133 - Somis School. This landmark is located at 5268 North Street in Somis. It is located about 400 feet from the APE (Segment C-D Alternative A). Based on review of pre-1951 USGS 7.5' topographic maps, there are numerous structures over 50 years old within and/or adjacent to the Proposed Action alignment and alternative alignments. The age of these structures make them potentially eligible, although other criteria must be met, for listing on the National Register. 5.11.1.3 Regulatory Setting The proposed project falls under Federal, State and County cultural resource laws and policies. An overview of the major laws and policies that are to be used in assessing impacts to the project site’s cultural resources is presented below. Federal This document was prepared (in part) to comply with NEPA, which states (Section 101(b)) that it is the continuing responsibility for the Federal government to use all practicable means to preserve important historic, cultural, and natural aspects of our national heritage when implementing federal programs, policies, and decisions. The following is a discussion of Federal laws and statutes regarding cultural resources.
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Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974 (AHPA). It is the purpose of this act to further the policy set forth in "An Act to Provide for the Preservation of Historic American Sites, Buildings, Objects, and Antiquities of National Significance and for Other Purposes" approved August 21, 1935. The AHPA of 1974 amends the Reservoir Salvage Act of 1960. This Act specifically provides for the preservation of historical and archaeological data which might be irreparably lost or destroyed as a result of: 1) flooding, the building of access roads, the erection of workmen's communities, the relocation of railroads and highways, and other alterations of terrain caused by the construction of a dam by an agency of the United States, or by any private person or corporation holding a license issued by any such agency; or 2) any alteration of the terrain caused as result of any Federal construction project or federally licensed project, activity, or program. Archaeological Resource Protection Act of 1979 (ARPA). The ARPA states that archaeological resources on public and Indian lands are an accessible and irreplaceable part of the Nation's heritage. The Act provides for the following: • Establishes protection for archaeological resources to prevent loss and destruction due to uncontrolled excavations and pillaging; • Encourages increased cooperation and exchange of information between government authorities, the professional archaeological community, and private individuals having collections of archaeological resources prior to the enactment of this Act; • Establishes permit procedures to permit excavation or removal of archaeological resources (and associated activities) located on public or Indian lands; and • Defines excavation, removal, damage, or other alteration or defacing of archaeological resources as a "prohibited act" and provides for criminal and monetary rewards to be paid to individuals furnishing information leading to the finding of a civil violation or conviction of a criminal violator. National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (as amended). The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) expresses a general policy of supporting and encouraging the preservation of prehistoric and historic resources for present and future generations by directing Federal agencies to assume responsibility for considering historic resources in their activities. The statute ensures the accomplishment of its policies and mandates by several means: • Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish and maintain a National Register of Historic Places; • Directs the Secretary of the Interior to approve State preservation programs, and to designate State Historic Preservation Officers to administer State preservation efforts; • Authorizes a grant program for States for historic preservation projects and individuals for the preservation of listed National Register properties; • Establishes the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) as an independent Federal agency;
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• Establishes procedures that Federal agencies must follow in managing Federally owned or controlled property and requires consultation with the ACHP prior to the approval of any undertaking which may harm historic properties; and • Establishes a National Historic Preservation Fund. Section 106 (16 U.S.C. 470f) of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (80 STAT. 915) requires that: The head of any Federal agency having direct or indirect jurisdiction over a proposed Federal or federally assisted undertaking in any State and the head of any Federal department or independent agency having authority to license any undertaking shall, prior to the approval of the expenditure of any Federal funds on the undertaking or prior to the issuance of any license, as the case may be, take into account the effect of the undertaking on any district, site, building, structure, or object that is included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register. The head of any such Federal agency shall afford the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation established under Title II of this Act a reasonable opportunity to comment with regard to such undertaking. The regulations governing the implementation of Section 106 written by the ACHP are presented in 36 CFR Part 800, Protection of Historic Properties. Briefly, the steps in the Section 106 process involve: • Determine whether a proposed project constitutes an undertaking and identify consulting parties, which includes Native Americans (§800.3); • Determine the Area of Potential Effects (APE) (§800.4). Then gather information on existing sites and research and contact consulting parties; • Identify historic properties (§800.4b); Evaluate historic significance by applying the National Register criteria to identified properties in the APE and determine eligibility (§800.4c); • Assess project effects on eligible or listed NRHP properties (§800.4d and §800.5); and • Resolve any adverse effects through consultations with SHPO, Native Americans and interested parties, and notify the ACHP (§800.6). • A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) must be drafted (§800.8(c)(4)(i)(B)). Under Section 106, historic properties can be determined eligible for inclusion in the National Register under the streamlined eligibility process. An historic property determined eligible for inclusion in the National Register is afforded the same protection as historic properties that have been formally nominated. However, such properties would not be listed until a formal nomination has been processed and approved. Executive Order 13007. President Clinton signed Executive Order 13007 on May 24, 1996, which requires Federal agencies to accommodate access to and ceremonial use of Indian sacred sites by Indian religious practitioners and avoid adversely affecting the physical integrity of such sites.
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California Register of Historical Resources Drafted in 1995, this document provides proposed guidelines for the nomination of properties to the California Register. The California Register is an authoritative guide to be used by state and local agencies, private groups, and citizens to identify the State’s historical resources and to indicate which properties are to be protected, to the extent prudent and feasible, from substantial adverse change. The criteria for listing resources on the California Register are based on those developed by the National Park Service for listing on the National Register of Historic Places with modifications in order to include a broader range of resources which better reflect the history of California. California Public Resources Code Section 5097.9 of the California Public Resources Code stipulates that it is contrary to the free expression and exercise of Native American religion to interfere with or cause severe irreparable damage to any Native American cemetery, place of worship, religious or ceremonial site, or sacred shrine. State Health and Safety Code If human remains are exposed during construction, 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 (NAHC). The NAHC would then contact the most likely descendent of the deceased Native American, who would serve as a consultant on how to proceed with the remains. Ventura County General Plan Policies Section 1.8 of the Goals, Policies and Programs of the Ventura County General Plan provide a framework for the protection of cultural resources. These policies require assessments, determination of impacts in consultation with recognized local Native American groups, avoidance of impacts to significant resources when feasible, and development of mitigation according to guidelines of State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and the NAHC. 5.11.2 Environmental Consequences 5.11.2.1 Significance Thresholds Section 15064.5 of the State CEQA Guidelines states that a substantial adverse change in the significance of an historical resource may have a significant effect on the environment. Adverse changes may include demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings. For the purposes of this document, a substantial adverse change to a historically significant resource is considered a significant impact. A cultural resource shall be considered to be "historically significant" if the resource meets the criteria for listing on the California Register of Historic Resources (Pub. Res. Code SS5024.1, Title 14 CCR, Section 4852) including the following: • Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of California's history and cultural heritage;
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• Is associated with the lives of persons important in our past; • Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction, or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses high artistic values; or • Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. In addition, the Federal Section 106 process requires cultural sites to be evaluated to determine eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Few sites that may be affected by the project have been evaluated. Adverse effects to listed or eligible sites may be considered significant impacts, and require mitigation. 5.11.2.2 Proposed Action Phase I Prehistoric Archaeological Sites No impacts to the four recorded prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-174, -662, -555, and – 863) located within one-quarter mile of the Proposed Action pipeline alignments are expected, as all four are recorded outside of the project’s APE. Redeposit FW-1 was destroyed by construction of the Hueneme Road bridge and is not considered a historically significant resource. Therefore, impacts associated with pipeline installation would be less than significant. CA-VEN-174 (Round Mountain), a probable Chumash solstice observation point, is outside of the Phase I APE, but does overlook the general eastern end of the project area. Previous impacts to Round Mountain include grading of the top of the mountain and a road up its north side, and road grading at its base. The general project area over which Round Mountain dominates has been farmed for numerous decades. Hueneme Road is present on the 1904 USGS 15' Port Hueneme quadrangle map. Project impacts to the setting of Round Mountain, if any, are expected to be temporary as the pipeline would be buried within existing agricultural fields and/or under existing roads. Therefore, impacts to this resource are considered less than significant. Although no prehistoric sites were identified along the proposed pipeline alignment, it is possible that subsurface sites could be present that were not visible during the field survey. Review of the USGS 1904 15' Hueneme quadrangle map indicates that historic sloughs extended inland near the southern end of Edison Road. In addition, prehistoric sites are sometimes located on high ground above the sloughs. Therefore, the Segment G-H alignment along Edison Road should be considered sensitive for prehistoric resources. The survey along Edison Road southern extent was at the entrance gate for the Ormond Beach Plant. No permission for access inside the plant property including the beach dune area precluded this area from being surveyed. There is a potential that unknown buried archaeological deposits may exist within or adjacent to the pipeline alignment, and may be impacted by trenching or other pipeline installation activities. Any such impact would be considered significant, if historically significant resources were adversely affected (Impact CR-1).
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Historic Archaeological Sites No historic archeological sites are located within or adjacent to the APE of the Proposed Action. Therefore, no impacts to these sites would occur. Historic Structures Several structures over 50 years old are located within the 300 foot wide corridor surveyed by Conejo Archaeological Consultants for the pipeline alignment. The majority of these historic structures have not been evaluated for historical significance, and for the purposes of this analysis are considered potentially significant. Project construction may require demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of its immediate surroundings of one or more of these structures. This impact would be considered significant, if historically significant resources were adversely affected (Impact CR-2). Phase II Prehistoric Archaeological Sites Six prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-95, -631, -643, -693, -864, -1341) have been reported from within the 300-foot-wide APE along the Phase II Proposed Action pipeline alignment. The stratigraphic integrity of these sites may be disrupted and artifacts may be lost as a result of pipeline installation. An additional prehistoric site (CA-VEN-340) is located in close proximity to the APE (see Table 5.11-1). Due the general uncertainty of actual site boundaries, this site may also be impacted by pipeline installation. Impacts to prehistoric archaeological sites are considered potentially significant, pending further evaluation of their historical significance (see Mitigation Measure MM CR-3) (Impact CR-3). Due to the high density of archeological sites in along Arroyo Simi, it is possible that trenching or other pipeline installation activities could expose unknown buried archaeological deposits and/or burials. If project excavation exposes any such deposit(s) (intact or disturbed), this would be a potentially significant impact, pending further evaluation of their historical significance (see Mitigation Measure MM CR-3) (Impact CR-4). Historic Archaeological Sites The Proposed Action pipeline alignment traverses CA-VEN-862H, and may result in a significant disturbance of this site (Impact CR-5). Historic Structures/Landmarks One landmark (no. 72, Pepper Trees) is located within Proposed Action APE, and pipeline installation may result in the loss or alteration of this landmark (Impact CR-6). Portions of the Virginia Colony of Moorpark (Avenida Colonia) are located immediately adjacent to the APE. It is unknown if these structures have been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places; however, it is likely that they are historically significant under the CEQA definition. Substantial adverse changes (demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings) to these structures would be considered a significant impact (Impact CR-7).
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Structures over 50 years old may be located within or adjacent to the Proposed Action pipeline alignment. Surveys would be required to identify and evaluate these structures. If project construction requires demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings of any structure 50 years or older, this could result in a significant impact (Impact CR-8). Cumulative. The proposed pipeline alignments are generally located adjacent to roadways, where activities such as roadway maintenance, utility installation, drainage maintenance and land development may occur. These projects may impact the same archeological resources as impacted by the proposed project. In addition, land development associated with population growth in the region (primarily in Oxnard, Simi Valley and Moorpark) is expected to result in the continued degradation of cultural resources. The proposed project would incrementally contribute to this cumulatively significant impact to cultural resources (Impact CR-9).
Table 5.11-1. Summary of Phase II Cultural Resource Impacts
Segment Resource Type Impact
Preferred Alignment
Prehistoric Site Potential disturbance of CA-VEN-340 A-B Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-643 Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-1341
Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-95 Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-864 B-C Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-693 Historic Landmark Disturbance of High Street Pepper Trees (no. 72)
Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-631 C-D Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-864
D-E2 Historic Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-862H
Alternative A
Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-95 B-C Prehistoric Site Potential disturbance of CA-VEN-227 Prehistoric Site Potential disturbance of CA-VEN-864
Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-1089 Historic Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-661H C-D Historic Landmark Disturbance of the Somis Thursday Clubhouse (no. 85) Historic Landmark Disturbance of Fulkerson Hardware (no. 128) Historic Landmark Disturbance of the Somis School (no. 133)
D-E2 Historic Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-862H
Alternative B
Prehistoric Site Potential disturbance of CA-VEN-228 B-C Prehistoric Site Disturbance of CA-VEN-864 Historic Landmark Disturbance of High Street Pepper Trees (no. 72)
Prehistoric Site Potential disturbance of CA-VEN-631 C-D Prehistoric Site Potential disturbance of CA-VEN-864
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5.11.2.3 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I Prehistoric Archaeological Sites No impacts to the four recorded prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-174, -662, -555, and – 863) located within one-quarter mile of the alternative pipeline alignments are expected, as all four are recorded outside of the project’s area of potential effect. Redeposit FW-1 was destroyed by construction of the Hueneme Road bridge and is not considered a historically significant resource. Therefore, impacts associated with pipeline installation would be less than significant. CA-VEN-174 (Round Mountain), a probable Chumash solstice observation point, is outside of the Phase I APE, but does overlook the general eastern end of the project area. Previous impacts to Round Mountain include grading of the top of the mountain and a road up its north side, and road grading at its base. The general project area over which Round Mountain dominates has been farmed for numerous decades. Hueneme Road is present on the 1904 USGS 15' Port Hueneme Quadrangle. Project impacts to the setting of Round Mountain, if any, are expected to be temporary as the pipeline would be buried within existing agricultural fields and/or under existing roads. Therefore, impacts to this resource are considered less than significant. There is a potential that unknown buried archaeological deposits may exist within or adjacent to the pipeline alignment, and may be impacted by trenching or other pipeline installation activities. Any such impact would be considered significant, if historically significant resources were adversely affected. Historic Archaeological Sites CA-VEN-664H is located within the APE of Segment G-H Alternative A. However, this site is documented as destroyed and is not considered a historically significant resource. Therefore, impacts associated with pipeline installation would be less than significant. CMWD–1H is located within the APE of Segment F-G Alternative A. This Site is a historic archaeological trash site that has been extensively disturbed by decades of farming activity. As currently recorded, this historic deposit does not meet the eligibility criteria for listing on the NRHP or California Register. However, this Site has not been evaluated and historically significant subsurface resources may be present. Therefore, impacts to CMWD-1H are considered potentially significant. Historic Structures Several structures over 50 years old are located within the 300 foot wide corridor surveyed by Conejo Archaeological Consultants for the alternative pipeline alignments. The majority of these historic structures have not been evaluated for historical significance, and for the purposes of this impact assessment, these structures are assumed to be historically significant. Therefore, if project construction requires demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings of any structure 50 years or older, this could result in a significant impact.
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Phase II Prehistoric Archaeological Sites Four prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-95, -643, -1089, -1341) have been reported from within the APE of the Phase II Alternative A alignment (including Segment A-B shared with the other alignments). The stratigraphic integrity of these sites may be disrupted and artifacts may be lost as a result of pipeline installation. An additional three prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-227, - 340, -864) are located in close proximity to the APE the Phase II Alternative A alignment (see Table 5.11-1). Due the general uncertainty of actual site boundaries, these three sites may also be impacted by pipeline installation. Impacts to prehistoric archaeological sites are considered potentially significant, pending further evaluation of their historical significance (see Mitigation Measure MM CR-5). Three prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-643, -864, -1341) have been reported from within the APE of the Phase II Alternative B alignment (including Segment A-B shared with the other alignments). The stratigraphic integrity of these sites may be disrupted and artifacts may be lost as a result of pipeline installation. An additional four prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-228, -340, -631, -864) are located in close proximity to the APE of the Phase II Alternative B alignment (see Table 5.11-1). Due the general uncertainty of actual site boundaries, these four sites may also be impacted by pipeline installation. Impacts to prehistoric archaeological sites are considered potentially significant, pending further evaluation of their historical significance (see Mitigation Measure MM CR-5). Alternative Alignment C (where it varies from the Proposed Action alignment) would not impact any known prehistoric sites. Historic Archaeological Sites Two historic archeological sites (CA-VEN-661H, 0862H) are located within the APE of Alternative A, and pipeline installation along this alignment may result in significant disturbance of these sites. Impacts to historic archaeological sites are considered potentially significant, pending further evaluation of their historical significance (see Mitigation Measure MM CR-2). No historic archeological sites are located within the APE of Alternative B; therefore, no adverse affects are expected from pipeline installation. Historic Structures/Landmarks Three historic landmarks are located within the APE of the Alternative A pipeline alignment (see Table 5.11-1), and pipeline installation may result in significant impacts associated with the loss or substantial alteration of these sites. One historic landmark is located within the APE of the Alternative B pipeline alignment (see Table 5.11-1), and pipeline installation may result in in significant impacts associated with the loss or substantial alteration of this site.
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Portions of the Virginia Colony of Moorpark (Avenida Colonia) are located immediately adjacent to the APE of Alternative A. It is unknown if these structures have been evaluated for eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places; however, it is likely that they are historically significant under the CEQA definition. Substantial adverse changes (demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings) to these structures would be considered a significant impact. Structures over 50 years old may be located within or adjacent to the alternative pipeline alignments. Surveys would be required to identify and evaluate these structures. If project construction requires demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings of any structure 50 years or older, this could result in a significant impact. 5.11.3 Mitigation Measures 5.11.3.1 Proposed Action Phase I MM CR-1. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce potential impacts to archeological resources to a less than significant level: 1. The final pipeline alignments and associated construction impact corridor shall be field verified to ensure it lies within the cultural resources APE surveyed by Conejo Archeological Consultants. An archaeologist shall conduct an archaeological survey of those areas not previously surveyed, including portions of Segment G-H south of the terminus of Edison Road. Additional mitigation measures and/or changes in the alignment to avoid resources to the extent feasible shall be developed. 2. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be drafted for mitigation of historic properties. All requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act shall be fully implemented. 3. Plans for monitoring, treatment of human remains, and unplanned discoveries shall be written in consultation with USBR, SHPO, Native Americans, interested parties, and Advisory Council, if they chose to participate. These plans shall be incorporated into the Final EIR/EA. 4. A professional archaeologist shall provide a cultural resources orientation to construction workers associated with excavation activities. The orientation shall include a description of the type of cultural resources that may be encountered during construction and what steps are to be taken if such a find is unearthed.
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5. In the event that intact archaeological deposits are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work shall be terminated within the vicinity of the find. In compliance with Plans developed as part of measure 3 above, the find shall be evaluated by a professional archaeologist in consultation with affected Native American groups and SHPO, and mitigated as warranted. A Chumash consultant shall be retained to monitor any fieldwork associated with Native American resources. After the find has been appropriately mitigated, work in the area may resume. 6. In those areas determined archaeologically sensitive for Native American resources (southern half of Edison Road), a professional archaeologist and Chumash consultant shall be retained to monitor all excavation activity. 7. 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 (NAHC). The NAHC would then contact the most likely descendent of the deceased Native American, who would then serve as consultant on how to proceed with the remains. MM CR-2. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce potential impacts to historic resources to a less than significant level: 1. The final pipeline alignments shall be designed to avoid structures 50 years or older. 2. If any structure 50 years or older cannot be avoided by project construction, then a professional historian shall be retained to conduct an architectural historical evaluation of the structure(s). The historic assessment shall determine the eligibility of the structures for the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register. Mitigation measures shall be developed for substantial adverse changes (demolition, destruction, relocation or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings) to historically significant structures, and may include documentation and relocation. 3. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be drafted for mitigation of historic properties. All requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act shall be fully implemented. Phase II MM CR-3. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce potential impacts to archeological resources to a less than significant level: 1. Conduct a Phase I archaeological survey of those areas not subject to previous archaeological reconnaissance and re-survey those areas where previous survey work does not meet current professionally acceptable methodology standards.
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2. Incorporate the findings and recommendations of the Phase I archaeological survey report into the project conditions. 3. Conduct a new archaeological and historical record search, if surveys are not completed by June 2002. 4. Avoid recorded prehistoric and historic archaeological sites whenever feasible. This may require field checks and in some cases boundary testing to verify the avoidance of impacts. 5. If impacts to an archaeological site(s) cannot be feasibly avoided, a Phase II Evaluation Excavation and/or Phase III Data Recovery Excavation and/or a monitoring program shall be completed. The evaluation shall include a determination of eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The effects of the proposed project on these resources (if any) shall be determined, and Native American representatives shall be contacted. Mitigation measures shall be developed as appropriate for the significance of the resource and magnitude of project impacts, and submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office for concurrence. Any other requirements for Section 106 processing shall also be completed at that time. The site evaluation and data recovery shall be completed in consultation with Reclamation, SHPO, Native Americans and interested parties. 6. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be drafted for mitigation of historic properties. All requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act shall be fully implemented. 7. Plans for monitoring, treatment of human remains, and unplanned discoveries shall be written in consultation with USBR, SHPO, Native Americans, interested parties, and Advisory Council, if they chose to participate. These plans shall be incorporated into the Final EIR/EA. 8. A professional archaeologist shall provide a cultural resources orientation to construction workers associated with excavation activities. The orientation shall include a description of the type and nature of cultural resources that may be encountered during construction and steps to be taken if such a find is unearthed. 9. In the event that intact archaeological deposits are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work shall be terminated within the vicinity of the find. In compliance with Plans developed as part of measure 7 above, the find shall be evaluated by a professional archaeologist in consultation with affected Native American groups and SHPO, and mitigated as warranted. After the find has been appropriately mitigated, work in the area may resume.
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10. 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 NAHC. The NAHC would then contact the most likely descendent of the deceased Native American, who would then serve as consultant on how to proceed with the remains. MM CR-2 shall be fully implemented to reduce potential Phase II impacts to historic resources to a less than significant level. 5.11.3.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I MM CR-4. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce potential impacts to archeological resources to a less than significant level: 1. The final pipeline alignments and associated construction impact corridor shall be field verified to ensure it lies within the cultural resources APE surveyed by Conejo Archeological Consultants. An archaeologist shall conduct an archaeological survey of those areas not previously surveyed, including portions of Segment G-H Alternative A near the Oxnard Wastewater Treatment Plant, and portions of Segment G-H Alternative B near the Ormond Beach power plant. Additional mitigation measures and/or changes in the alignment to avoid resources to the extent feasible shall be developed. 2. Historic archeological site CMWD-1H shall be avoided, if feasible. 3. If impacts to CMWD-1H (or any other archaeological site discovered under measure 1 above) cannot be feasibly avoided, a Phase II Evaluation Excavation and/or Phase III Data Recovery Excavation and/or a monitoring program shall be completed. The evaluation shall include a determination of eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The effects of the proposed project on these resources (if any) shall be determined, and Native American representatives shall be contacted. Mitigation measures shall be developed as appropriate for the significance of the resource and magnitude of project impacts, and submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office for concurrence. Any other requirements for Section 106 processing shall also be completed at that time. The site evaluation and data recovery shall be completed in consultation with Reclamation, SHPO, Native Americans and interested parties. 4. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be drafted for mitigation of historic properties. All requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act shall be fully implemented.
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5. Plans for monitoring, treatment of human remains, and unplanned discoveries shall be written in consultation with USBR, SHPO, Native Americans, interested parties, and Advisory Council, if they chose to participate. These plans shall be incorporated into the Final EIR/EA. 6. A professional archaeologist shall provide a cultural resources orientation to construction workers associated with excavation activities. The orientation shall include a description of the type of cultural resources that may be encountered during construction and what steps are to be taken if such a find is unearthed. 7. In the event that intact archaeological deposits are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work shall be terminated within the vicinity of the find. In compliance with Plans developed as part of measure 3 above, the find shall be evaluated by a professional archaeologist in consultation with affected Native American groups and SHPO, and mitigated as warranted. After the find has been appropriately mitigated, work in the area may resume. 8. In those areas determined archaeologically sensitive for Native American resources (Perkins Road-Alternative A, Arnold Road south of 6054- Alternative B), a professional archaeologist and Chumash consultant shall be retained to monitor all excavation activity. 9. 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 NAHC. The NAHC would then contact the most likely descendent of the deceased Native American, who would then serve as consultant on how to proceed with the remains. MM CR-2 shall be fully implemented to reduce potential Phase I impacts to historic resources to a less than significant level. Phase II MM CR-5. The following measures shall be fully implemented to reduce potential impacts to archeological resources to a less than significant level: 1. Conduct a Phase I archaeological survey of those areas not subject to previous archaeological reconnaissance and re-survey those areas where previous survey work does not meet current professionally acceptable methodology standards. 2. Incorporate the findings and recommendations of the Phase I archaeological survey report into the project conditions. 3. Conduct a new archaeological and historical record search, if surveys are not completed by June 2002.
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4. Avoid recorded prehistoric and historic archaeological sites whenever feasible. This may require field checks and in some cases boundary testing to verify the avoidance of impacts. 5. If impacts to an archaeological site(s) cannot be feasibly avoided, a Phase II Evaluation Excavation and/or Phase III Data Recovery Excavation and/or a monitoring program shall be completed. The evaluation shall include a determination of eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The effects of the proposed project on these resources (if any) shall be determined, and Native American representatives shall be contacted. Mitigation measures shall be developed as appropriate for the significance of the resource and magnitude of project impacts, and submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office for concurrence. Any other requirements for Section 106 processing shall also be completed at that time. The site evaluation and data recovery shall be completed in consultation with Reclamation, SHPO, Native Americans and interested parties. 6. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be drafted for mitigation of historic properties. All requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act shall be fully implemented. 7. Plans for monitoring, treatment of human remains, and unplanned discoveries shall be written in consultation with USBR, SHPO, Native Americans, interested parties, and Advisory Council, if they chose to participate. These plans shall be incorporated into the Final EIR/EA. 8. A professional archaeologist shall provide a cultural resources orientation to construction workers associated with excavation activities. The orientation shall include a description of the type and nature of cultural resources that may be encountered during construction and steps to be taken if such a find is unearthed. 9. In the event that intact archaeological deposits are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work shall be terminated within the vicinity of the find. In compliance with Plans developed as part of measure 7 above, the find shall be evaluated by a professional archaeologist in consultation with affected Native American groups and SHPO, and mitigated as warranted. After the find has been appropriately mitigated, work in the area may resume. 10. 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 NAHC. The NAHC would then contact the most likely descendent of the deceased Native American, who would then serve as consultant on how to proceed with the remains.
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MM CR-2 shall be fully implemented to reduce potential Phase II impacts to historic resources to a less than significant level. 5.11.4 Residual Impacts 5.11.4.1 Proposed Action Phase I. Implementation of the measures provided in Section 5.11.3 would reduce potential project-specific and cumulative impacts to a less than significant level. Phase II. Implementation of the measures provided in Section 5.11.3 would reduce potential project-specific and cumulative impacts to a less than significant level. 5.11.4.2 Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I. Implementation of the measures provided in Section 5.11.3 would reduce potential project-specific and cumulative impacts to a less than significant level. Phase II. Implementation of the measures provided in Section 5.11.3 would reduce potential project-specific and cumulative impacts to a less than significant level. 5.11.5 Federal Findings Federal concerns have been addressed in the preceding sections, at the request of Reclamation.
Page 5.11-29 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Socioeconomics
5.12 SOCIOECONOMICS 5.12.1 Affected Environment Sections 15054 and 15131 of the State CEQA Guidelines state that economic or social changes resulting from a project shall not be treated as significant effects on the environment. However, economic or social changes may be used to determine the significance of a physical effect on the environment. For example, a new roadway (physical change) may reduce access to existing businesses, and may have an adverse economic effect. Under CEQA, the economic effect would be used to determine the significance of the physical change. The proposed project could have a social or economic impact, with regard to making new water sources available for consumption. However, the significance of physical changes associated with the project have been determined based on other resources (water quality, biology, growth inducement), such that socioeconomics is not needed as a factor to determine significance. NEPA does not exempt social or economic effects from consideration as environmental impacts. Although the proposed project is unlikely to have significant social or economic effects, a discussion of environmental justice is provided in compliance with Reclamation’s NEPA Handbook. 5.12.2 Environmental Consequences Executive Order 12898 directs Federal agencies to take appropriate and necessary steps to identify and address disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effects, including the interrelated social and economic effects of their programs, policies and activities on minority populations and low income populations in the United States. The proposed action or alternatives would not have any impacts that would disproportionately affect minority or low income populations. All impacts would affect the population at large, without regard to social, racial or economic status.
Page 5.12-1 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Indian Trust Assets
5.13 INDIAN TRUST ASSETS 5.13.1 Affected Environment U.S. Department of Interior policy (Secretary of the Interior Order 3175) requires that actions reviewed under NEPA consider potential effects on Indian Trust Assets, which are defined as legal interests in property held in trust by the Federal government for the benefit of Indian tribes or individuals. Examples of such assets include lands, mineral rights, hunting and fishing rights, and water rights. Reclamation policy required activities to be carried out in a manner that protects Indian Trust Assets and avoids adverse impacts when possible. 5.13.2 Environmental Consequences The Southern California (Riverside) office of the Bureau of Indian Affairs was contacted to identify any Indian Trust Assets in the project area. No such assets were identified; therefore, there would be no affect.
Page 5.13-1 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Growth Inducement
6.0 GROWTH INDUCEMENT The State CEQA Guidelines require that an EIR assess the growth-inducing impacts of a project, particularly the potential for a project to: ". . . foster economic or population growth or the construction of new housing, either directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment. Included in this are projects which would remove obstacles to population growth." The proposed pipeline system would provide a means for disposal of brine (ocean discharge), which would facilitate the treatment and use of poor quality groundwater. Providing a means for the disposal of brine would also facilitate the further treatment of wastewater for reclamation. The use of treated groundwater and reclaimed wastewater would make other sources of potable water available for consumption, which may induce population growth. Treatment of poor quality groundwater and wastewater may occur in the absence of the proposed pipeline system as the demand for reclaimed water increases. The City of Simi Valley has considered treating water from their dewatering wells and reclaiming additional wastewater from the Simi Valley Water Quality Control Plant. However, disposal of the waste product of treatment (brine) may become problematic as instream water quality standards become more restrictive as part of the TMDL development process (see Section 5.4). Therefore, the availability of a brine disposal pipeline may serve as an incentive for the City to implement these projects. The principal source of water in Simi Valley is imported from the State Water Project, and supplied by CMWD. The City of Simi Valley would like to reduce their dependence on imported water, because imported water may become more costly and scarce as growth occurs in southern California. Therefore, it is possible that the proposed pipeline system may serve as an incentive to the City of Simi Valley to use local water sources (groundwater and reclaimed wastewater) and reserve imported water for future growth. In addition, the treatment of groundwater from the Santa Rosa and VCWWD wells would also make these sources available for consumption. The availability of a disposal mechanism for brine (proposed pipeline system) may serve as an incentive to treat these water sources and provide additional drinking water for future growth. Overall, the proposed project has the potential to be growth inducing.
Page 6-1 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Irreversible/Irretrievable Commitments of Resources
7.0 IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF RESOURCES The Council on Environmental Quality NEPA guidelines (40 CFR 1502.16) requires the discussion of any irreversible or irretrievable commitments of resources that would be involved with the proposed action or alternatives. The environmental effects of the proposed action or alternatives are entirely reversible. Restoration of areas impacted by pipeline installation and other mitigation measures identified in this document would reverse these short-term impacts, and abandonment of the pipeline would terminate any long-term impacts (mostly water resources-related). The proposed action and alternatives would require the consumption of fossil fuels, and commitment of steel and concrete (and other non-renewable materials) during the construction phase, which are irretrievable resources. The commitment of these resources would be relatively small, short-term (construction only) and focused toward a specific goal.
Page 7-1 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Consultation and Coordination
8.0 CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION 8.1 PERSONS AND AGENCIES CONSULTED Acosta, Ernie. Permit Engineer, California Department of Transportation Alary, Steve. Planner, County of Ventura Resources Management Agency, Planning Division Alcalla, Jim. City of Moorpark Engineering Department Bay, S. Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Britt, Butch. Deputy Director, Ventura County Public Works Agency, Transportation Division Deshmukh, Shivaji. Engineer, Orange County Water District Farris, Rick. Ecologist, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Greaves, Jim. Ornithologist Hauschild, Mary. Union Pacific Railroad, Real Estate and Utility Division Henry, Bobbie Joe. Realty Officer, Bureau of Indian Affairs Keivanfar, Kevin. Manager, Ventura County Public Works Department, Flood Control Division, Permit Section Martinez, Juan. Planner, City of Oxnard Planning and Environmental Services McGovern, Lucia. Permit Coordinator, West Basin Municipal Water District Para-Hernandez, Melissa. Native American Richardson, Joe. Facility Manager, Port Hueneme Water Agency Roshanian, Rob. Manager, City of Oxnard, Development Services Salazar-Folkes, Beverly. Native American Tsai, Don. Permit manager, Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board Turner, Ken. Groundwater Specialist, United Water Conservation District Westdyke, Bob. Director, City of Camarillo, Public Works Department 8.2 SCOPING AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT As part of the CEQA process, a Notice of Preparation was sent out in October 2000 to responsible agencies and interested members of the public, to allow public input to the scoping process. CMWD received 16 comment letters in response to the Notice of Preparation. In addition, the proposed project is discussed frequently at monthly watershed stakeholders meetings coordinated by CMWD. Public input regarding the proposed project is often provided at these meetings. Ninteen comment letters were received during the public comment period (May 17 through July 13, 2002). Responses to each of these comments is provided in Section 13.0 of this EIR/EA.
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8.3 SECTION 7 CONSULTATION UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT A copy of the Draft EIR/EA was sent to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Reclamation has requested concurrence with its effect determinations on listed species and critical habitat for Phase I of the proposed project as listed in Section 5.5.5.2. Section 7 consultation for Phase II would be delayed until more specific project information is developed. The Service’s initial response is provided in a comment letter dated July 31, 2002 (see Section 13.0). Based on this letter, there is confusion regarding the project under consideration (Phase I only). Reclamation is currently resolving this issue and expects concurrence with the effects determinations in the near future. 8.4 SECTION 106 CONSULTATION UNDER THE NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT A copy of the Draft EIR/EA was sent to representatives of the local Chumash Indian tribe. Phase I consultation with Native American tribes and interested parties will continue throughout the Section 106 process, including the development and implementation of mitigation measures (if needed). Section 106 consultation for Phase II would be delayed until more specific project information is developed. Section 106 consultation with the California State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has been initiated by Reclamation.
Page 8-2 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Summary of Mitigation Measures
9.0 SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES/ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS The following is a summary of mitigation measures and environmental commitments made on behalf of the proposed project. CMWD would be responsible for implementation of each measure/commitment.
Page 9-1 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project List of Preparers
10.0 LIST OF PREPARERS This document was prepared for the Calleguas Municipal Water District by Padre Associates, Inc. and Conejo Archeological Consultants. Persons involved in its preparation include: 10.1 PADRE ASSOCIATES, INC. Simon Poulter: Project Supervisor; Quality Control: B.A., M.R.P. with 17 years of professional experience Matt Ingamells: Project Manager; Air Quality; Water Resources; Biology; Noise; Transportation; Risk of Upset sections: B.S., M.A. with 20 years of professional experience Donna Hebert: Land Use; Aesthetics sections: B.S., M.A. with 11 years of professional experience Edward Powers: Geology section: B.S., C.E.G. with 16 years of professional experience Rick Meredith: Biology section: B.S., M.S. with 21 years of professional experience Chris Dunn: Agriculture section: B.S. with 2 years of professional experience 10.2 CONEJO ARCHEOLOGICAL CONSULTANTS Mary Maki: Cultural Resources section: B.A., M.A., S.O.P.A. with 13 years of professional experience 10.3 BUREAU OF RECLAMATION Anthony Vigil, Environmental Specialist Dave Curtis, Realty Specialist Eric Watson, Environmental Specialist and ESA Coordinator Laurie Perry, Archeologist Steve Muth, Natural Resource Specialist Dennis Watt, Hydrologist
Page 10-1 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project References
11.0 REFERENCES Alabaster, J.S. 1980. Water Quality Criteria for Freshwater Fish. Applegate, Richard. 1975. An Index of Chumash Placenames. In San Luis Obispo County Archaeological Society Occasional Paper Number Nine. Roberts House of Printing, Paso Robles, California. Aquatic Bioassay and Consulting Laboratories. Inc. 2001. City of Oxnard Receiving Water Monitoring Report Summary Report 2000. Prepared for the City of Oxnard. Arnold, Jean. 1987. Craft Specialization in the Prehistoric Channel Islands. In: California, University of California Publications in Anthropology 18, University of California Press, Berkeley and Los Angeles. Atwood, J.L. 1990. Status Review of the California Gnatcatcher) (Polioptila californica). Manomet Bird Observatory. Barbour, M.G and J. Major. 1988. Terrestrial Vegetation of California. California Native Plant Society Special Publication number 9. Biosystems Analysis. 1993. Biological Resource Surveys for Southern California Edison’s Ormond Beach Generating Station. Bolt, Beranek and Newman. 1971. Noise from Construction Equipment and Operations, Building Equipment, and Home Appliances. Prepared for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (PB-206717). Bookman-Edmonston Engineering, Inc. 1997. Draft Regional Wastewater Reuse and Brackish Groundwater Utilization in the Calleguas Service Area (a Strategic Assessment). Prepared for Calleguas Municipal Water District. Bookman-Edmonston Engineering/Navigant Consulting, Inc. 2000. Draft Results of the Coordinated Monitoring Program: Groundwater Element. Prepared for Calleguas Municipal Water District. Boyer, J. and S. Craig. 1967. CA-VEN-95 Archaeological Site Record. Brisby, W.L. 1978. General Biotic Survey of the Flora and Fauna of Parcel Map No. 3220, Tracts J and K. Report for the Marn Development Company, Rancho Simi. Brock, James and Nina Harris. 1987a. CA-VEN-863, Archaeological Site Record. Brock, James and Nina Harris. 1987b. CA-VEN-862H, Archaeological Site Record. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). 1981. Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Proposed 1982 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Lease Sale Offshore Southern California, OCS Sale no. 68. Burger, J. and M. Gochfeld. 1985. Early Postnatal Lead Exposure: Behavioral Effects in Common Tern Chicks (Sterna hirundo). J. Toxicol. Environ. Health 16:869. Burgess, R. 1985. Study of Selected Plant Species for the Conejo Creek Realignment Project. Prepared for the Ventura County Public Works Agency.
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California Department of Conservation. 1998. Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program Important Farmland Maps, Simi Valley West, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Camarillo, and Oxnard 7.5’ Quadrangle Maps. California Department of Fish and Game. 1983. A Plan for Protecting, Enhancing, and Increasing California’s Wetlands for Waterfowl. California, Department of Parks and Recreation. 1996. California Historical Landmarks. Office of Historic Preservation, Sacramento, California. California Department of Parks and Recreation. 2001. Directory of Historic Properties in the Historic Property Data File for Ventura County. Office of Historic Preservation, Sacramento, California. California Department of Transportation. 2000. Traffic Volumes. http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/traffops/ California Department of Water Resources. 1999. Groundwater Level Data Common Terms. http://well.water.ca.gov/gwbrochure/terms/ California Division of Mines & Geology. 1998. Earthquake Fault Zone Map of the Camarillo Quadrangle, Official Map, Scale: 1:24,000. California Division of Mines & Geology. 1998. Earthquake Fault Zone Map of the Moorpark Quadrangle, Preliminary Review Map, Scale: 1:24,000. California Division of Mines & Geology. 1998. Earthquake Fault Zone Map of the Newbury Park Quadrangle, Preliminary Review Map, Scale: 1:24,000. California Division of Mines & Geology. 1996. Earthquake Fault Zone Map of the Simi Valley West Quadrangle, Preliminary Review Map, Scale: 1:24,000. California Division of Mines & Geology. 1997. Official Map of Seismic Hazards Zones, Moorpark Quadrangle, Scale: 1:24,000. California Division of Mines & Geology. 2001. Preliminary Map of Seismic Hazard Zones, Oxnard Quadrangle, Scale: 1:24,000. California Division of Mines & Geology. 1997. Official Map of Seismic Hazard Zones, Simi Valley West Quadrangle, Scale: 1:24,000. California Division of Mines & Geology. 1995. The Northridge, California, Earthquake of 17 January 1994, Special Publication 116. California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Los Angeles Region. 1994. Water Quality Control Plan, Los Angeles Region. Callison, Shelia. 1980. CA-VEN-661H Archaeological Site Record. Camp Dresser & McKee, Larry Walker Associates, Uribe and Associates and Resources Planning Associates. 1993. California Storm Water Best Management Practice Handbooks, Construction Activity. Prepared for Stormwater Quality Task Force. Sacramento, CA.
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Conejo Archaeological Consultants. 2001. Phase 1 Archaeological Study for the CMWD Brine Line Project, Camrosa Water District Wastewater Treatment Plant to Existing Ocean Outfall, of Approximately 16 Linear Miles, Ventura County, California. D’Altroy, Baksh and Bove. 1978. CA-VEN-555 Archaeological Site Record. Dames and Moore. 1988. Phase 1 Cultural Resources Survey, Fiber Optic Cable Project, Burbank to Santa Barbara, California. Davis, F.W., P.A. Stine, D.M. Stoms, M.I. Borchart, and A.D. Hollander. Gap Analysis of the Actual Vegetation of California, 1. Southwestern Bioregion. Madrono 42(1):40-78. DeLisle, H., G. Cantu, J. Feldner, R. Horne, P. O'Connor, M. Peterson, and B. Robertson. 1986. The Present Status of the Herpetofauna of the Santa Monica Mountains. Prepared under the auspices of the Southwest Herpetological Society and the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles. Dibblee, T.W. 1992a. Geologic Map of the Moorpark Quadrangle, Ventura County, California, Scale: 1:24,000. Dibblee, T.W. 1992b. Geologic Map of the Oxnard Quadrangle, Ventura County California, Scale: 1:24,000. Dibblee, T.W. 1992c. Geologic Map of the Newbury Park Quadrangle, Ventura County, California, Scale: 1:24,000. Dibblee, T.W. 1992d. Geologic Map of the Simi West Quadrangle, Ventura County, California, Scale: 1:24,000. Edelman, P. 1990. Critical Wildlife Corridor/Habitat Linkage Areas between the Santa Susana Mountains, the Simi Hills and the Santa Monica Mountains. Prepared for The Nature Conservancy. Edwards, R.D., D.F. Rabey, and R.W. Kover. 1970. Soil Survey Ventura Area, California. USDA Soil Conservation Service in cooperation with University of California Agricultural Experiment Station. ENSR Consulting and Engineering. 1997. Final Master Environmental Impact Report for the West End Community Development Project and West End Specific Plan. Prepared for the City of Simi Valley. Environmental Science Associates. 1997. Draft Environmental Impact Report #307 Hill Canyon Regional Recreational Facility. Prepared for the Hill Canyon Recreational Resources Authority. Fjeld, E., T.O. Haugen and L.A. Vollestad. 1998. Permanent Impairment in the Feeding Behaviour of Grayling (Thymallus thymallus) Exposed to Methylmercury During Embryogenesis. The Science of the Total Environment 213:247. Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Agency. 1997. Draft Groundwater Management Plan Update. Frick, W.E., P.J.W. Roberts, L.R. Davis, J. Keyes. D.J. Baumgartner and K.P. George. 2001. Dilution Models for Effluent Discharges, 4th Edition (Visual Plumes) – DRAFT. U.S. EPA Environmental Standards Division.
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Fugro West, Inc. 1995a. Final Program Environmental Impact Report for the Las Posas Basin Aquifer Storage and Recovery Project. Prepared for Calleguas Municipal Water District. Fugro West, Inc. 1995b. Aquatic Surveys of Calleguas and Conejo Creeks. Prepared for Calleguas Municipal Water District. Thousand Oaks, CA. Fugro West, Inc. 1997. Data Collection Program, Annual Report 1996, Conejo/Calleguas Creek System, Ventura County, California. Prepared for the City of Thousand Oaks. Glassow, Michael A. and Larry R. Wilcoxon. 1988. Coastal Adaptations Near Point Conception, California, with Particular Regard to Shellfish Exploitation. In: American Antiquity 53:36-51. Glassow, Michael A., Larry R. Wilcoxon, and Jon Erlandson. 1985. Cultural and Environmental Change During the Early Period of Santa Barbara Prehistory. Manuscript on file, Department of Anthropology, UC Santa Barbara. Gochfeld, M. 1980. Tissue Distribution of Mercury in Normal and Abnormal Young Common Terns. Marine Pollut. Bull. 11:362. Grant, Campbell. 1978. Chumash: Introduction. In: Handbook of North American Indians, California, Vol. 8. Edited by Robert F. Heizer, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. Hall, E.R. 1981. The Mammals of North America. John Wiley & Sons. New York, NY. Harrison, William M. 1964. Prehistory of the Santa Barbara Coast, California. Doctoral Dissertation, University Microfilms, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Hart, C.W. and Samuel L.H. Fuller. (1979). Pollution Ecology of Estuarine Invertebrates. Academic Press, N.Y., N.Y. Headman and Jaszewski. 1984. Fundamentals of Urban Design. American Planning Association, Chicago Illinois. Heinz, G. 1979. Methylmercury: Reproductive and Behavioural Effects on Three Generations of Mallard Ducks. Journal of Wildlife Management 43:394. Hickman, J. C. 1993. The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of California. University of California Press. Berkeley, CA. Hodgkinson, K. M. 1996. Damage and Restoration of Geodetic Infrastructure Caused by the 1994 Northridge, California Earthquake, USGS Open File Report 96-517. Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. California Department of Fish and Game, Non-Game Heritage Program. Sacramento, CA. Horne, Stephan and Stephan Craig. 1979a. CA-VEN-662 Archaeological Site Record. Horne, Stephan and Stephan Craig. 1979b. CA-VEN-664H Archaeological Site Record. Impact Sciences, Inc. 1991. Biological Sensitivity Analysis for Tentative Parcel Map No. PM- 4687.
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Impact Sciences, Inc. 1993. Carlsberg Specific Plan EIR. Impact Sciences, Inc. 1995. North Ormond Beach Coastal Management Plan. Prepared for Ventura County Flood Control District. Impact Sciences, Inc. 1997. Final Environmental Impact Report Camarillo Regional Park Golf Course and Amphitheatre. Prepared for the County of Ventura, General Services Agency. Izbicki, John A. 1993. Seawater Intrusion in a Coastal California Aquifer. U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 125-96. http://water.wr.usgs.gov/fact/b07/up.html. Jennings, M.R. 1983. An Annotated Checklist of the Amphibians and Reptiles of California. California Fish and Game 69(3):151. Jones & Stokes Associates, Inc. 1995. South Ormond Beach Wetland Restoration and Management Plan. Prepared for the City of Oxnard with assistance from Philip Williams & Associates, EMCON Associates and Pacific Coast Land Design. Kennedy/Jenks Consultants. 1999. Draft Concept Report Regional Salinity Management and Wetlands Enhancement Program. Prepared for the Calleguas Municipal Water District. King, Chester. 1967. CA-VEN-174 Archaeological Site Record. 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. King, Chester. 1994. Prehistoric Native American Cultural Sites in the Santa Monica Mountains. Prepared by Topanga Anthropological Consultants for the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore Foundation. King, Chester and Decker. 1970. CA-VEN-228 Archaeological Site Record. King, Chester and Linda King. 1970a. CA-VEN-225 Archaeological Site Record. King, Chester and Linda King. 1970b. CA-VEN-227 Archaeological Site Record. Kuhn, Michael W. 1977. National Register of Historic Places Inventory--Nomination Form. Kuhn, Michael W. 1980a. CA-VEN-95 Archaeological Site Record. Kuhn, Michael W. 1980b. CA-VEN-693 Archaeological Site Record. Larry Walker Associates, Inc. (LWA) 2000. Calleguas Creek Characterization Study-Results of the Coordinated Water Quality Monitoring Program, Surface Water Element. Prepared for the Calleguas Municipal Water District. Larry Walker Associates, Inc. (LWA) 2001. Calleguas Creek Brine Line EIR Water Quality Analyses. Prepared for the Calleguas Municipal Water District. Leonard, N. Nelson III. 1976. Simi Valley Industrial Park Project: Archaeological Element. Leonard, N. Nelson III. 1975a. CA-VEN-95 Archaeological Site Record. Leonard, N. Nelson III. 1975b. CA-VEN-342 Archaeological Site Record.
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Leonard, N. Nelson III. 1975c. CA-VEN-343 Archaeological Site Record. Leonard, N. Nelson III. 1975d. CA-VEN-344 Archaeological Site Record. Leonard, N. Nelson III. 1976. CA-VEN-340 Archaeological Site Record. Lopez, Robert. 1981. On Impact Mitigation of CA-VEN-225, Moorpark, Ventura County, California (carried out in 1972 and 1981). Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (LARWQCB). 1994. Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region, Basin Plan for the Coastal Watersheds of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. LSA Associates, Inc. 1996. Updated Biological Constraints Analysis for the Hill Canyon Regional Recreational Facility. Prepared for Golf Dimensions, Irvine, CA. Maki, Mary. 2001. Phase I Archaeological Survey of Approximately 24 Acres for the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant 5.0-MGD Expansion Project, Moorpark, Ventura County, California. Marsh, K.G. 1981. Biological Assessment West End Industrial Area, Simi Valley, California. Prepared for PRC Toups. MBC Applied Environmental Sciences. 2001. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 2000 Receiving Water Monitoring Report Reliant Energy Ormond Beach Generating Station Ventura County, California. Prepared for Reliant Energy. McIntyre, J.D. 1973. Toxicity of Methylmercury for Steelhead Trout Sperm. Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 9:98. McKim, J.M., G.F. Olson, G.W. Holcombe and E.P. Hunt. 1976. Long-term Effect of Methylmercuric chloride on Three Generations of Brook Trout (Salverlinus fontinalis): Toxicity, Accumulation, Distribution and Elimination. Journal of Fisheries Research Board of Canada 33:2726. Metropolitan Water District (MWD) of Southern California. 1994. West Valley Project Administrative Draft Environmental Impact Report. Prepared in association with Calleguas Municipal Water District, Woodward-Clyde Consultants and Dames & Moore. Mitsch, W. J. and J. G. Gosselink. 1986. Wetlands. Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, Inc. Montgomery Watson. 1995. Report on Arroyo Simi Characterization. Prepared for the Simi Valley County Sanitation District. Morrato, Michael. 1984. California Archaeology. Academic Press, San Diego, California. Moyle, P. B., J. E. Williams, and E. D. Wikramanayake. 1989. Fish Species of Special Concern in California. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Biology. University of California, Davis. National Park Service. 2001. National Register of Historic Places. National Marine Fisheries Service. 1999. Our Living Oceans, Report on the Status of U.S. Living Marine Resources 1999.
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National Research Council. 1993. Managing Wastewater in Coastal Urban Areas. National Academy Press. Natural Diversity Data Base (NDDB). 2001. RAREFIND 2 output for the Point Mugu, Oxnard, Camarillo, Newberry Park, Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, Simi Valley West, Simi Valley East, Moorpark, and Santa Paula 7.5-minute quadrangles. California Department of Fish and Game. Sacramento, CA. Natural Resources Conservation Service. 1994. Draft Calleguas Creek Watershed Implementation Plan for Mugu Lagoon. Prepared in coordination with the U.S. Forest Service, the Ventura County Resource Conservation District and the California State Coastal Conservancy. Neuenschwander and Olgesby. 1991. CA-VEN-1089 Archaeological Site Record. Onuf, C. P. June 1987. The Ecology of Mugu Lagoon, California: An Estuarine Profile. Performed for U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Biological Report 85(7.15). Oxnard (City of). 1982. Coastal Land Use Plan. Oxnard (City of). 1990a. City of Oxnard 2020 General Plan. Oxnard (City of). 1990b. Final Environmental Impact Report 88-3 for the City of Oxnard 2020 General Plan. Pacific Southwest Biological Services, Inc. 1989. Report of a Biological Survey of Wood Ranch Eastern Sector Simi Valley, California. Prepared for Robert Bein, William Frost & Associates and the City of Simi Valley. National City, CA. Padre Associates, Inc. 1998. Final Program EIR for the Unit W & Unit F Interceptor Reconstruction Project. Prepared for Boyle Engineering Corporation and the City of Thousand Oaks. Padre Associates, Inc. 1999a. Biological Baseline Assessment for Lower Happy Camp Canyon Regional Park, Ventura County, California. Prepared for County of Ventura, General Services Agency, Parks Department. Padre Associates, Inc. 1999b. Final Supplemental EIR for Phase II of the Unit W Interceptor Reconstruction Project. Prepared for Boyle Engineering Corporation and the City of Thousand Oaks. Padre Associates, Inc. 2001a. Mitigated Negative Declaration, Grimes Canyon Reservoir Project. Prepared for Calleguas Municipal Water District. Padre Associates, Inc. 2001b. Simi Valley Landfill Expansion Project, Revised Biological Impact Analysis. Prepared for the Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center. Parker, John. 1987a. CA-VEN-864 Archaeological Site Record. Parker, John. 1987b. Cultural Resources Evaluation of Site CA-VEN-864 and the Moorpark Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion South East Parcel. Perliter & Ingalsbe Consulting Engineers. 2001. Regional Brine Lines Sizing and Alignment Study. Prepared for the Calleguas Municipal Water District.
Page 11-7 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project References
Powell, A. 1999. Western Snowy Plovers and California Least Terns. In: Status and Trends of the Nation’s Biological Resources. Prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey. Public Works Standards, Inc. 1999. Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction. Adopted by Joint Cooperative Committee of Southern California Chapter, American Public Works Association and Southern California Districts, Associated General Contractors of California. Reed, P.B. Jr. 1988. National List of Plant Species that occur in Wetlands: California (Region 0). (U.S. Fish and Wildl. Serv. Biol. Rep. 88(26.10)). St. Petersburg, FL. Rogers, David Banks. 1929. Prehistoric Man on the Santa Barbara Coast. Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Romani, John. 1994. A Cultural Resource Survey for the Proposed Renovation of the Camrosa Wastewater Treatment Plant, Round Mountain, Ventura County. On file at the South Central Coastal Information Center, CSU Fullerton. Romani, John and Gwen Romani. 1984. CA-VEN-786 Archaeological Site Record. San Diego (City of). 1992. Total Resource Recovery Project, Health Effects Study, Final Summary Report. Sawyer, J. O. and T. Keeler-Wolf. 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. Prepared for the California Native Plant Society. Schwartz, Steven. 1990. CA-VEN-555 Site Record Update. Simon and Whitley, 1996, CA-VEN-1341 Archaeological Site Record. Skinner, M. W. and B. M. Pavlik. 1994. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California. Special Publication No. 1. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. South Coast Air Quality Management District. 1993. CEQA Air Quality Handbook. Staal, Gardner, and Dunne, Inc. 1994. Data Collection Program Annual Report 1993, Conejo/Calleguas Creek, Santa Rosa Ground Water Basin, Ventura County, California. Prepared for City of Thousand Oaks, Camrosa Water District. State Water Resources Control Board. 1997. 1996 California Water Quality Assessment Report. California Environmental Protection Agency. State Water Resources Control Board. 2000. 2001 California Ocean Plan, Water Quality Control Plan Ocean Waters of California. Swift, C. C., T. R. Haglund, M. Ruiz, and R. N. Fischer. 1993. The Status and Distribution of the Freshwater Fishes of Southern California. Southern California Academy of Sciences, 1993. Transportation Research Board. 1985. Highway Capacity Manual Special Report 209. Triem, Judy. 1985. Ventura County, Land of Good Fortune. Windsor Publications, Chatsworth, California.
Page 11-8 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project References
Trussel, R.P. 1972. The Percent Un-ionized Ammonia in Aqueous Ammonia Solutions at Different pH Levels and Temperatures. J. Fish. Res. Bd. Canada, 29:1505. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 1974. National Forest Landscape Management, Volume 2, Chapter 1. U.S. Department of the Navy (USN). 2000. Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Point Mugu Sea Range. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1991. Nonroad Engine and Vehicle Emission Study. EPA 460/3-91-02. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1995. Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors (AP-42), Volume I. U. S. Government Printing Office. Revised 2001. Farmland Protection Policy Act [7CFR658]. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Ventura County. 1997. Ventura County Historical Landmarks & Points of Interest. Ventura County. 2000. Ventura County Initial Study Assessment Guidelines. Ventura County Air Pollution Control District. 2000. Ventura County Air Quality Assessment Guidelines. Ventura County Public Works Agency. 2000. Traffic Volumes on Ventura County Roadways. Ventura County Resource Management Agency. 1994a. Ventura County General Plan Resources Appendix. Ventura County Resource Management Agency. 1994b. Ventura County General Plan Hazards Appendix. Ventura County Resource Management Agency. 1997. Ventura County General Plan Public Facilities and Services Appendix. Ventura County Resource Management Agency. 1999. Ventura County General Plan Goals, Policies and Programs. Ventura County Solid Waste Management Department. 1999. Ventura County Business Resource Directory. http://www.rain.org/~swmd/brd/brd-ch1.html#ag W & S Consultants. 1997a. Phase II Test Excavation and Determination of Significance on a Portion of CA-VEN-1341, Simi Valley, Ventura County, California. W & S Consultants. 1997b. Limited Phase II Archaeological Test Excavation for the Calleguas Municipal Water District Reclaimed Waterline, Simi Valley, Ventura County, California. Wallace, William J. 1955. A Suggested Chronology for Southern California Coastal Archaeology. In: Southwestern Journal of Anthropology 11(3):59-77. Warren, Claude N. 1968. Cultural Tradition and Ecological Adaptation on the Southern California Coast. In: Eastern New Mexico University, Contributions in Anthropology 1(3):1-15.
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Weber, F. H., et al. 1973. Geology and Mineral Resources of Southern Ventura County, California, California Division of Mines and Geology Preliminary Report 14. Westman, W.E. 1981. Diversity Relations and Succession in California Coastal Sage Scrub. Ecology 62:170. Westman, W.E. 1986. Implications of Ecological Theory for Rare Plant Conservation in Coastal Sage Scrub. In: Conservation and Management of Rare and Endangered Plants. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Wetzel, R.G., (1975). Limnology. W.B. Saunders, Philadelphia, PA. Wlodarski, Robert and Dan Larson. 1995. CA-VEN-898 Archaeological Site Record Update. Wlodarski, Robert and Dan Larson. 1998. CA-VEN-174 Archaeological Site Record Update. Wlodarski, Robert and John Romani. 1986. Archaeological Survey Report for the VEN23/118 Freeway to Freeway Connection near Moorpark, Ventura County, California. Wlodarski, Robert. 1998. A Phase 1 Archaeological Study for the Lewis Road Widening Project, Ventura County, California. On file at the South Central Coastal Information Center, CSU Fullerton. Wlodarski, Robert. 1999, A Phase I Cultural Resources Study for the Camarillo Hills Drain Improvement Project, County of Ventura, California. On file at the South Central Coastal Information Center, CSU Fullerton. Wlodarski, Robert. 2000. A Phase I Archaeological Study for Proposed Expansion Areas for a Supplemental Environmental Impact Report for California State University Channel Islands, County of Ventura, California. Yerkes, R.F. 1985. Geologic and Seismologic Setting, In: Ziony, J.E. (ed.) Evaluating Earthquake Hazards in the Los Angeles Region-An Earth Science Perspective. U.S. Geologic Survey Prof. Paper 1,360. Zedler, J. B. 1982. The Ecology of Southern California Salt Marshes: A Community Profile. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service FWS/OBS-81/54. Zeiner D. C., W.F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K.E. Mayer, and M. White, eds. 1990. California’s Wildlife. Vol. I Amphibians and Reptiles. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California. 272 pp. Zeiner D. C., W.F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K.E. Mayer, and M. White, eds. 1990. California’s Wildlife. Vol. II Birds. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California. 731pp. Zeiner D. C., W.F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K.E. Mayer, and M. White, eds. 1990. California’s Wildlife. Vol. III Mammals. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California. 407pp.
Page 11-10 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Distribution List
12.0 DISTRIBUTION LIST 12.1 FEDERAL AGENCIES U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 12.2 STATE AGENCIES State Clearinghouse (CEQA) California Department of Fish and Game Regional Water Quality Control Board California Department of Transportation California Coastal Conservancy 12.3 COUNTY AGENCIES Resource Management Public Works Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Farm Bureau Flood Control 12.4 LOCAL AGENCIES City of Moorpark City of Simi Valley City of Thousand Oaks City of Camarillo Camrosa Water District 12.5 NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES Chumash 12.6 LIBRARIES (COUNTY) Foster (Ventura) Moorpark Branch Simi Valley Branch
Page 12-1 Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
13.0 RESPONSE TO COMMENTS Section 15087 of the State CEQA Guidelines provides an opportunity for the public and agencies to review the Draft EIR and submit comments regarding its adequacy. The National Environmental Policy Act does not require formal responses to comments on Environmental Assessments. However, all comment letters received during the public comment period (May 17 to July 13) are presented with written responses. Comment letters on the Draft EIR received during and following the public comment period were submitted by the agencies and persons listed below. • California Department of Health Services (May 28, 2002) • Ventura County Public Works Agency-Transportation Department (June 13, 2002, revised August 16, 2002) • City of Simi Valley (June 17, 2002) • Reliant Resources (June 20, 2002) • California Department of Transportation (June 25, 2002) • Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (June 25, 2002) • City of Camarillo (June 25, 2002) • Ventura County Resource Management Agency-Environmental Health Division (July 1, 2002) • Ventura County Public Works Agency-Flood Control Department (July 1, 2002) • City of Thousand Oaks (July 2, 2002) • Howard M. Jones, Trustee (July 2, 2002) • City of Oxnard (July 3, 2002) • California Regional Water Quality Control Board (July 3, 2002) • Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner (July 3, 2002) • Unknown, undated (received July 3, 2002) • Naval Base Ventura County (July 3, 2002) • Surfrider Foundation (July 11, 2002) • California Department of Fish and Game (July 12, 2002) • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (July 31, 2002) In accordance with the requirements of Section 15088 of the CEQA Guidelines, responses to comments are provided in this section.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: California Department of Health Services Date: May 28, 2002 The engineering design of Phase I of the pipeline is in progress, and will comply with required separation distances from other water and sewer pipelines.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Ventura County Public Works Agency-Transportation Department Date: June 13, 2002, revised August 16, 2002 1. Level of Service (LOS) calculations were based on the Highway Capacity Manual. The EIR/EA will be revised to use the Ventura County General Plan LOS methodology (Figure 4.2.2 of the Public Facilities and Services Appendix). Based on this methodology, the LOS for South Las Posas Road would be D (assuming Class I). However, the addition of 200 VPD would not reduce LOS on this roadway (VPD must exceed 16,000 to change LOS from D to E). 2. Consistency with General Plan Policy 4.2.2.4 would be ensured through the submittal, approval and implementation of a construction traffic control plan (as per your comment 6). The proposed project is a pipeline and operation would generate less than 10 ADT (see page 5.3-11). Therefore, no significant impacts to SR 118 or other roadways is expected. 3. Pipeline installation will be consistent with Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction. 4. Encroachment permits for pipeline installation will be obtained as required by the selected construction contractor. 5. A traffic control plan will be developed by the selected construction contractor, and submitted to the County for approval. 6. Comment noted.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: City of Simi Valley Date: June 17, 2002 1. The EIR/EA will be revised to note that the five wells are located at five different locations, but the connection to the proposed pipeline system would occur at Chain Drive, following construction of interconnect piping and RO treatment facilities by the City. 2. Plant flow rates were obtained from Bookman-Edmonston Engineering (1997), but will be revised based on information provided in this comment. 3. The requested text revision will be completed. 4. Figure 5.2-3 will be revised to more accurately represent the presumed location of the Simi Fault.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Reliant Resources Date: June 20, 2002 1. The ocean dispersion modeling conducted for the EIR/EA considered the scenario that the proposed pipeline may be the only effluent discharged to the outfall. The modeling identified impacts that can be mitigated through a variety of measures including additional pre-treatment of water discharged to the proposed pipeline, flow restrictions from some sources and outfall modifications. Please see the response to the City of Oxnard’s comments regarding capacity issues at the Oxnard outfall. 2. We agree that wetland creation/restoration projects in the Ormond Beach area may be viable users of brine and wastewater transported by the proposed pipeline. As discussed in Section 4.1.3 of the EIR/EA, wetlands enhancement projects are not viewed as an alternative to an ocean outfall because such projects could not accommodate design flow rates. However, CMWD is committed to facilitating such projects when feasible.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: California Department of Transportation Date: June 25, 2002 The selected construction contractor will be required to obtain the necessary encroachment and transportation permits for construction work within the State Right-of-Way and transportation of over-sized equipment.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Ventura County Air Pollution Control District Date: June 25, 2002 1. The additional measures listed on page 5.3-9 will be added to the summary table in Section 9. 2. The proposed project consists of a pipeline to convey highly treated municipal wastewater and brine generated from brackish groundwater recovery projects and does not include any facilities that produce air contaminants or are subject to an APCD permit. 3. The EIR/EA will be revised to note that only six monitoring stations are currently operating in Ventura County. 4. A conformity discussion is provided in Section 5.3.5 of the EIR/EA. The proposed project would not exceed the de minimis thresholds such that a conformity demonstration is not required.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: City of Camarillo Date: June 25, 2002 1. Section 2.4.3 of the EIR/EA will be revised to acknowledge that future increases in TDS and chloride would be caused by the continued use of high TDS surface and groundwater and associated agricultural return flows, in combination with discharge of treated wastewater to surface waters (see Section 1.2 of the EIR/EA). The proposed project would address salt loading in the watershed by reducing salts in wastewater discharged to streams and removing salts from groundwater prior to use. 2. The preferred pipeline alignment in the Camarillo area is along Arroyo Las Posas and would not affect Flynn Road. However, the referenced pipeline segment is part of Phase II, which is considered conceptual at this time and the final selection of pipeline alignments may not be determined for several years. CMWD would consult with the City at that time as to the City’s concerns regarding pipeline alignments. 3. Prime farmlands were mapped in the EIR/EA based on the most recent important farmland maps provided by the California Department of Conservation. The area referenced in the comment is considered prime farmlands, but has been converted to residential land uses in the last few years. Figure 5.6-4 and Table 5.6-3 will be revised to be consistent with this change in land use. 4. Portions of the pipeline alignment within the City are part of Phase II, which is assessed at a program level in the EIR/EA. The EIR/EA addressed construction-related impacts (including noise and dust) to existing land uses in 2001. Subsequent CEQA documentation for Phase II would assess impacts to new land uses and provide additional detail concerning impacts to recently constructed improvements such as mitigation plantings and bank improvements. Mitigation may include joint use of access roads.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Ventura County Resource Management Agency-Environmental Health Division Date: July 1, 2002 The term “direct use” is used in the EIR/EA to mean a diversion of brine/wastewater from the pipeline for beneficial uses. This use is only a concept at this time and users have not been identified, but may include wetland enhancement in the Ormond Beach area. Environmental impacts associated with direct use would be identified in a subsequent environmental document, when more detail is available. Beneficial uses of the treated water are the same as existing, mostly wildlife habitat, landscape and agricultural irrigation and groundwater replenishment. Groundwater and effluent would be further treated to reduce salinity and used for the same pre-project purposes.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Ventura County Public Works Agency-Flood Control Department Date: July 1, 2002 A watercourse permit would be obtained by the selected construction contractor for encroachments into floodplain areas or jurisdictional watercourses.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: City of Thousand Oaks Date: July 2, 2002 1. The referenced statements (primarily in Sections 2.1.4 and 2.4.3) have been revised to clarify that additional wastewater treatment is only one of several project components identified to manage salinity in the watershed. TMDL requirements were mentioned only as another reason to manage salinity, and not to demonstrate compliance. 2. As stated in Section 3.3.2 of the Draft EIR/EA, there is uncertainty regarding the amount of wastewater (including brine) that would be transported by the proposed pipeline system. Therefore, pipeline sizing (and associated capacity) is highly conservative to provide flexibility to meet these uncertain needs. Although the City has stated that a pipeline extension is not needed at this time, it is expected that the proposed pipeline system would have sufficient capacity to meet the City’s needs, should an extension be needed in the future. However, additional environmental review would be required, as such an extension was not addressed in the Draft EIR/EA. 3. The City is concerned that project-related surface flow reduction may require additional stream bypass flow and impinge upon water rights at the Conejo Creek Diversion. As shown in Table 5.4-7 of the Draft EIR/EA, the proposed project would not result in any flow reduction at the Conejo Creek Diversion (upstream of the Camarillo Sanitary District). However, a 0.3 to 0.6 cfs dry season flow reduction may occur downstream of the Camarillo Sanitary District Plant as a portion of treated wastewater currently discharged to Conejo Creek is treated and diverted to the proposed pipeline as brine. Mitigation measure MM WR-3 provides a process for CMWD to assess the impact based on conditions existing at the time the project is implemented. However, flow augmentation or other mitigation would be the ultimate responsibility of the entity responsible for flow reduction (Camarillo Sanitary District in this case), in coordination with Calleguas MWD. 4. The surface water analysis was based on the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study because data on effluent and receiving water quality were not available for periods after implementation of nitrification/denitrification at the Hill Canyon Treatment Plant. The use of this data would allow a more accurate representation of existing conditions, but would not substantially affect the impacts of the project as presented in the EIR/EA. We would welcome this data in future modeling assessments, which may be necessary for Phase II of the project.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Howard M. Jones, Trustee Date: July 2, 2002 1. The Calleguas Creek Watershed Plan Steering Committee acted to approve the Salinity Management Project (Brine Line) as an early action at their meeting on March 30, 2000. The motion was made by Steering Committee member Dan Pinkerton and approved by the full Committee. A memo was sent to the subcommittee co-chairs on May 24, 2000 requesting that each adopt a version of suggested support language, and Section 10 of the Regional Brine Disposal Pipeline Study was attached for their information. The Habitat and Natural Resources Subcommittee however had already acted to support the project as an early action on April 11. The Flood Protection and Sedimentation Subcommittee acted on the suggested language on June 6; and Public Outreach and Education did the same on June 9, 2000. The Water Resources and Water Quality Subcommittee had initiated the request and took no further action. 2. The proposed project addresses four of the five municipal wastewater treatment plants in the watershed and all of the major drainages (excluding Arroyo Conejo). Therefore, “regional” appears a fitting project title. 3. This comment is very general and does not address the proposed project. No response is required.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: City of Oxnard Date: July 3, 2002 1. CMWD understands that the City has requested an increase in permitted outfall capacity from the Regional Water Quality Control Board from 22.6 to 31.7 mgd. If this request is not granted, expansion or modification of the outfall will be required to meet the City’s long-term needs. Therefore, it appears that long-term outfall capacity for the proposed project is not assured. CMWD also understands the City is planning a Groundwater Recovery Enhancement And Treatment Program (GREAT Program). This Program would increase outfall capacity by 5 mgd (Phase I) to 32.6 mgd (Phase 2A) by diverting secondary-treated municipal wastewater from the outfall to a tertiary treatment facility for reclamation. However, the GREAT Program relies on grant funding which has not be obtained to date. CMWD is willing to work with the City to fully determine the long-term availability of outfall capacity; however, even if Phase I of the GREAT Program is fully implemented the Oxnard outfall capacity would be insufficient to meet the long-term needs of the proposed project. 2. The City of Oxnard may be considered a minority or low income community; however, water quality impacts of the proposed project would affect all users of the ocean equally including sport fishermen, boaters and other non-sustenance uses. However, mitigation measures are provided in the EIR/EA to reduce water quality impacts to a level of less than significant such that mercury toxicity would not occur and fishing success would be unaffected.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Date: July 3, 2002 1. The ocean water quality impacts of the proposed project were evaluated based on available water quality information from potential contributors to the proposed pipeline. Assessment of acute toxicity requires a bioassay of the effluent, which is not possible until the project becomes operational. Toxicity bioassay testing would be conducted as part of NPDES permitting, if required. Chronic toxicity was determined for each constituent when water quality data were available by calculating effluent limitations based on outfall dilution modeling and estimates of chronic toxicity (Table D of the Ocean Plan). 2. Based on recommendations by the State Water Resources Control Board, the UM3 model was used to model the ocean outfall plume. This model simulates only initial dilution and cannot fully address long-term build-up once the plume reaches the ocean surface. However, preliminary calculations based on Shoreline Impact from Ocean Waste Discharges (Koh, 1988, ASCE Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, 114(4): 361- 376), indicate overall dilution may be decreased by long-term build-up. For example, in the Ormond outfall Scenario 4 (the least dilution evaluated of all scenarios and of both outfalls), the dilution would decrease from 5.33 to 5.26. The difference is negligible and does not change the significance of impacts identified in the EIR/EA. 3. The Ocean Plan specifies that the most conservative assumption for assessing impacts from a submerged ocean discharge is zero current. The modeled scenario effectively assumes that the discharge is at the shoreline (using limitations set for where humans and wildlife make beneficial use of the aquatic resource), rather than farther offshore. Simulating the fate and transport of an offshore plume by currents directed towards the shore would indicate a more dilute plume, and therefore would be less conservative. Public health (likely the greatest issue of concern with shoreline impacts) is most commonly impacted by bacteriological contamination (measured as coliform). However, the receiving waters also have a beneficial use of shellfish harvesting, which sets an even more restrictive criterion on discharges. Those lower limits were used in the analysis. Because the effluent discharged to the outfall would be tertiary treated, coliform levels in the discharged plume were determined to be much lower than the coliform criterion. 4. The condition of zero current (as modeled for the EIR/EA) is consistent with the Ocean Plan (see definition of “initial dilution” on page 25 of the Ocean Plan) and represents the most conservative assumption for dilution. The modelers do not agree with the implication that ambient currents and far-field mixing could result in less dilution by mixing. A useful reference on this topic is Fischer et al. (1979) Mixing in Inland and Coastal Waters. If currents in the vicinity of the outfall direct effluent towards shore and then along the shore (“hugging” the shoreline), this scenario implies that 1) turbulent conditions are reducing stratification strength to increase vertical mixing, and 2) more water is being drawn past the outfall, increasing dilution in the near-field and far-field (termed “secondary dilution” in recognition of its additive effect on dilution). Therefore, accounting for cross-currents in the dilution model would be less conservative than the conditions simulated.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
5. Ocean water quality modeling included the scenario when the effluent contributed by the proposed project would be the only flow into the ocean outfall (see Scenario 4). We understand that the NPDES permit for the outfall ultimately selected would require revision. 6. The quantitative analysis of toxic pollutants in the EIR/EA is limited to metals. A qualitative discussion of organics is included on page 5.4-26. A specific mention about pesticides in this section was provided because the available water quality data from non-point sources is limited to pesticides. A limited amount of water quality data are available from the POTW discharges on some other organic pollutants, but this data is limited and primarily non-detected data. As a result (as discussed on page 5.4-26), modelling of other toxic organics could not be conducted. Toxicity is also difficult to model, especially when the sources of toxicity are not clearly identified. Preliminary analysis under the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study indicated that much of the toxicity in Conejo Creek and Arroyo Simi resulted from ammonia concentrations in discharges from POTWs. To the extent that ammonia is responsible for the toxicity, the salinity management project will result in significant reductions in this pollutant in the watershed and toxicity will not be increased. A qualitative statement can be made about both toxic organics and toxicity that to the extent these pollutants are coming from point sources that implement reverse osmosis, the pollutant concentrations will remain the same or decrease from these sources (depending on the effectiveness of the membrane at removing the pollutant). However, as indicated for ammonia upstream of the Camarillo WRP (see page 5.4-30) project- related reductions in surface flow may result in less dilution for non-point sources of these pollutants. As a result, the possibility exists that receiving water concentrations may increase by a less than significant amount. Although not considered in the modeling, it is likely that population growth in the watershed would generate effluent at a greater rate than can be RO treated, resulting in discharge to surface waters and offsetting any flow reductions associated with the proposed project. 7. Because of the limited amount of information on non-point sources, the use of average concentrations was determined to be the best way to apply the available data to all of the conditions in the watershed during the model process. The maximum concentrations of pollutants measured in one part of the watershed are likely not applicable to other parts of the watershed because of varying conditions. Maximum pollutant concentrations could have been used for the point sources, however that would have created inconsistency between the two different types of sources, made the model difficult to calibrate with existing data, and in the end has little impact on the conclusions of the analysis. The analysis assumes reverse osmosis treatment is occurring at the point source discharges. As a result, no matter how high the concentration in the discharge is, pollutant concentrations would be substantially reduced through the treatment process. Therefore, treated water discharged to the stream from the POTW is always lower in concentration than the pre-project situation. Any increases in receiving water concentrations result from the decreased flow being discharged to the stream to dilute other sources of the pollutant. Therefore, the flow is the critical condition for this analysis.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
If maximum pollutant concentrations are used, the initial receiving water concentration would increase, and the discharge concentrations would be reduced by RO by the same percentage as they were under average conditions. As a result, the receiving water concentrations would have the same response as under the average discharge scenario with a different final concentration that is proportional to the difference between the average discharge concentration and the maximum discharge concentration. So, if the receiving water concentrations increased under average conditions, they will also increase under maximum conditions. However, if the concentrations did not increase under average conditions, they will not increase under maximum conditions. The only difference is in the exact magnitude of the change and the initial and final receiving water concentrations. Overall, the significance of water quality impacts identified in the EIR/EA would be the same whether average or maximum pollutant concentrations were used for effluent water quality. 8. It is correct that the water quality model is not completely presented in this document. However, a reference on page 5.4-26 indicates that the complete model description can be found in the Calleguas Creek Nutrient TMDLs document prepared by Larry Walker Associates (2000). The complete spreadsheet model for nutrients was submitted in electronic form to the Regional Board as part of that document. It is our understanding that the nutrient model was submitted for peer review as part of the Nutrient TMDL development process being conducted by the Regional Board. The model was calibrated using Calleguas Creek Characterization Study data from 1998-1999 and compared to other water quality data collected from NPDES monitoring programs and special studies to ensure that it compared favorably with that data. It was not strictly verified in any other manner. Groundwater impacts will depend on the area, whether recharge is occurring or groundwater is seeping into the system, and the existing quality of the groundwater. Our model is not equipped to address these issues. However, the EIR/EA includes a description of the predicted impacts on groundwater quality on page 5.4-37. An additional qualitative description of groundwater impacts is that there is the potential for a reduction in groundwater recharge in some areas because of the reduced flows. Some initial modelling done by Tim Durbin indicates that decreased recharge during low flows may actually improve the water quality in the groundwater because the water is not leaching salts from the upper soil layers as the groundwater levels rise. The increased concentrations in the receiving water primarily occur in the Arroyo Simi upstream of the Simi Valley WQCP and upstream of the Camarillo WRP because those areas are where the most dramatic reductions in flow occur. In the Arroyo Simi, groundwater seepage occurs constantly and groundwater recharge is not occurring at any time during the year. From upstream of Camarillo to Mugu Lagoon limited if any recharge occurs except to very shallow groundwater pockets because the primary aquifer is covered with a clay cap. Therefore, the impacts from increased receiving water concentrations in those areas should be minimal. Overall, the loadings to groundwater will decrease because there will be a reduced load of the pollutant in the stream.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
9. Mitigation Measure WR-2 requires an ocean impact assessment based on the actual volumes and composition of brine and wastewater reaching the selected outfall. The water quality analysis completed for the EIR/EA by Larry Walker Associates (2001) is not a compliance demonstration, but a good faith effort in identifying maximum potential impacts associated with use of the two outfalls considered. Due to the uncertainty regarding the ultimate users of the proposed pipeline, a compliance demonstration would be conducted as part of NPDES permitting. 10. Inland surface water quality impacts were found to be less than significant; therefore, mitigation is not required. However, an option under Mitigation Measure WR-3 is flow augmentation to maintain beneficial uses, which would dilute pollutant loads and reduce instream pollutant concentrations. Individual dischargers would be responsible for providing water to offset reduced instream flows, if selected as a mitigation option. 11. It is expected that additional water quality testing and dilution modeling would be required as part of NPDES permitting prior to commencing full scale discharge. 12. The inland surface water quality model has been provided to the Regional Board for review. The model appears to the most applicable to the proposed project and is adequate for CEQA/NEPA compliance. However, the Regional Board may require additional modeling during NPDES permitting. 13. See the response to Comments 1 and 6. 14. At this time, an outfall has not been selected for engineering analysis. However, CMWD would be responsible for any outfall modifications to meet the effluent limitations of the Ocean Plan. A new outfall is not considered feasible due to high construction costs and difficulty in obtaining permits. Using the Ormond Beach power plant outfall would have lesser environmental impacts than constructing a new outfall because construction- related impacts to the marine environment would be avoided, and cooling water is generally available to dramatically dilute project discharges.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner Date: July 3, 2002 1. The requested text change will be completed. 2. The requested text change will be completed. 3. The referenced paragraph is generally irrelevant and will be deleted from the EIR/EA. 4. The requested text change will be completed. 5. The requested text change will be completed. 6. The requested text change will be completed. 7. The requested text change will be completed. 8. The “b” will be deleted from the citation “Ventura County, 2000b”, to make it clear the document referenced is the Initial Study Assessment Guidelines. 9. As lead agency, CMWD adopted the thresholds presented in the EIR/EA and not necessarily the full text of thresholds listed in the Initial Study Assessment Guidelines. 10. The requested text change offers no clarification; therefore, no change will be made. 11. As lead agency, CMWD adopted the thresholds presented in the EIR/EA and not necessarily the full text of thresholds listed in the Initial Study Assessment Guidelines. 12. The requested text change offers no clarification; therefore, no change will be made. 13. Statewide importance farmlands adjacent to the Camrosa WRF are considered part of Phase I and are addressed in Table 5.6-2. 14. See the response to Comment 13. 15. The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District approved of the dust control measures provided in the EIR/EA to protect public health. Therefore, no additional measures are needed to protect crops. 16. Page 5.6-22 of the EIR/EA will be revised to note that 0.34 acres of farmland would be lost to the proposed diversion structure. 17. The requested text change will be completed. 18. The alternative pipeline alignment analysis of the EIR/EA will be revised to be consistent with the preferred alignment, such that dust impacts to crops are considered less than significant due to implementation of standard dust control measures. 19. The requested text change will be completed. 20. See the response to Comment 13. 21. Impacts listed in Table 5.6-5 for Alternative Alignments B and C of Segment D-E1 includes impacts associated with Segment E1-E2 for direct comparison to Alternatives A and B which run from Point D to E2 directly. 22. See the response to Comment 18.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
23. Growth inducement would be a result of decisions made by individual jurisdictions regarding the amount of wastewater or groundwater treated, the amount of potable water made available, amount of State water available and other factors. Therefore, growth inducement is outside the control of CMWD, such that mitigation measures are not feasible.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Unknown Date: Undated letter, received by CMWD on July 3, 2002 1. It is likely that Phase II would have significant unavoidable impacts such that an EIS may be required for NEPA compliance. However, the purpose of the EIR/EA is NEPA compliance for Phase I only. Phase I impacts are all mitigable, and an EA is the appropriate NEPA document. The EIR/EA identified the environmentally superior alternative (see Section 2.5). 2. CMWD has selected a preferred ocean outfall (Ormond Beach power plant). However, sufficient analysis and mitigation measures are provided in the EIR/EA to allow the CMWD Board of Directors to select either outfall alternative, based on economic and technical feasibility and other factors. Under CEQA, the CMWD Board of Directors must adopt findings prior to project approval, including specific considerations that render project alternatives as infeasible. See the responses to the City of Oxnard’s comments regarding feasibility of the Oxnard outfall. 3. Input has been solicited during numerous committee meetings associated with the Calleguas Watershed Management Plan, and during the public comment period. In addition, the Environmental Defense Center provided comments and suggestions during the early development of the project. 4. Reduced surface flow is associated with Phase II of the proposed project. See the response to Comment 1. 5. Mitigation Measure WR-3 addresses reduced surface flow. 6. The Oxnard outfall alternative is not considered feasible due to the lack of demonstrated long-term capacity. 7. The EIR/EA is a program-level document for Phase II, subsequent environmental documentation would be prepared to fully identify the impacts of surface flow reductions. Mitigation measures would be more fully developed at that time. 8. MM BIO-10 (page 5.5-47) avoids impacts to California least tern and western snowy plover through construction restrictions during the breeding season. Based on recent observations during removal of offshore pipelines at the Mandalay power plant, 500 feet is an adequate buffer to prevent adverse effects to these bird species. 9. We believe termination of discharge to be the ultimate form of mitigation. Again, the EIR/EA is a program-level document for Phase II, subsequent environmental documentation would be prepared and NPDES permitting completed (potentially including additional modeling) to fully identify the impacts to ocean water quality. Mitigation measures would be more fully developed at that time. 10. The purpose of including Phase II is to fully examine the impacts of the entire project, to prevent “piece-mealing”. Section 15378(a) of the State CEQA Guidelines states: “‘Project’ means the whole of an action, which has a potential for resulting in a physical change in the environment, directly or ultimately…” At this time, it is not certain as to what components of Phase II will be implemented, nonetheless CMWD is required by CEQA to identify impacts.
\ Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Naval Base Ventura County Date: July 3, 2002 1. Pipeline creek crossings have the potential to disturb DDT-containing sediments and re- suspend these pollutants in the water column (see page 5.4-19 of the EIR/EA). However, pipeline creek crossings in the vicinity of Mugu Lagoon (Revolon Slough, Calleguas Creek) would be completed using tunneling methods and would not disturb sediments. In any case, Mitigation Measure WR-1 of the EIR/EA requires soil testing prior to disturbance of sediments to detect and remove contaminated soils. 2. As shown in Table 5.4-7 of the EIR/EA, dry season surface flow would be reduced by 3 to 7 percent between the Camrosa WRF and Highway 1, depending if 50 or 100 percent of effluent from the Simi Valley WQCP and Camarillo WRP are treated. Modeling was not conducted below Highway 1, but it is assumed these flow reductions apply to Mugu Lagoon. Sediment is transported during high flow events, which would not be affected by the small flow reductions associated with the proposed project. 3. Nitrate and copper would be increased slightly at Mugu Lagoon as stated on page 5.4- 30 of the EIR/EA. 4. Speculating on the future intentions of each of the water agencies in the watershed is very difficult. However, CMWD feels the project scenarios are reasonable. For example, the analysis assumes all groundwater currently pumped from the Simi Valley wells and discharged to Arroyo Simi would be treated and used for potable uses. 5. Information regarding summer closure of Mugu Lagoon will be added to the EIR/EA. 6. Information provided concerning the harbor seal population at Mugu Lagoon will be added to the EIR/EA. 7. The EIR/EA acknowledges that reduction in surface flow may significant impact southwestern pond turtle (see page 5.5-38). 8. See the response to Comment 6. 9. Information provided concerning the brown pelican population at Mugu Lagoon will be added to the EIR/EA. 10. See the response to Comment 4. 11. The purpose of the EIR/EA is CEQA and NEPA compliance for Phase I only. Flow reductions and related impacts would be a result of Phase II, which will require additional environmental review prior to approval.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
12. Based on the analysis presented in the EIR/EA, Phase II of the proposed project would have a small impact on dry season surface flow and water quality. Changes in the hydrology of Mugu Lagoon and indirect effects to endangered species are not expected. However, as stated above, additional assessment would be required to fully identify Phase II impacts and develop mitigation measures.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: Surfrider Foundation Date: July 11, 2002 1. Mitigation Measure WR-2 of the EIR/EA is based on achieving compliance with the Ocean Plan, which sets effluent limitations at the limit of initial dilution. Initial dilution ends when the plume reaches the ocean surface, which is only 12 feet from the outfall terminus for the Ormond Beach power plant outfall (see Figure 3 of Larry Walker Associates, 2001). No other outfall is located in such close proximity such that plumes could not commingle and result in additive (cumulative) concentrations. Impact WR-3 would be mitigated by Mitigation Measure WR-2. 2. The City of Oxnard has requested an increase in permitted outfall capacity from the Regional Water Quality Control Board from 22.6 to 31.7 mgd. If this request is not granted, expansion or modification of the outfall will be required to meet the City’s long- term needs. Therefore, it appears that long-term outfall capacity for the proposed project is not assured at this time. The referenced statement in Section 4.3.2 of the Water Quality Analysis prepared by Larry Walker Associates (2001) was based on a report prepared in 1990. As stated above, the City is currently investigating options to modify the outfall to increase capacity. Note that all water discharged to the proposed pipeline system would be either RO-treated groundwater or tertiary treated wastewater, such that coliform should not be a concern. As a point of clarification, the Ormond Beach power plant outfall is 14 feet in diameter (not 14 inches as described in the comment letter), 3.5 times larger that the City of Oxnard outfall.
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: California Department of Fish and Game Date: July 12, 2002 1. We understand that the Department in concerned that the project only addresses water quality problems associated with treatment plant discharges and not non-point sources and agricultural return flows. However, the proposed project has been designed to accommodate brine generated by agricultural water treatment, thereby facilitating water quality improvement of these sources. Non-point sources would not be directly affected by the proposed project. However, regional programs developed by the Regional Board and implemented by local jurisdictions is expected to reduce the volume and pollutant loads of non-point sources in the long-term. We understand that the Department fears that the public and many agencies view riparian habitat created by treatment plant discharges as artificial and expendable. The EIR/EA does not hold this view, impacts are based on project-related changes to existing conditions, whether natural, historic or created/maintained by artificial discharges to streams. 2. The Phase I pipeline alignment was relocated during development of the Draft EIR/EA from wetland and sensitive habitat areas west of the Ormond Beach power plant to along the eastern boundary of the power plant adjacent to the site of the tank farm (now removed) (see Figure 3-4). However, Padre Associates was not allowed assess to survey this new alignment, and saltmarsh bird’s beak may be present. The following mitigation measures are provided in the EIR/EA and are expected to prevent impacts to State listed species: • Botanical surveys to identify populations of saltmarsh bird’s beak and other special-status species, and re-align the pipeline to avoid impacts (Mitigation Measure BIO-5); • Wildlife surveys to identify populations of Belding’s savanna sparrow and other special-status species, and re-align the pipeline to avoid impacts (Mitigation Measure BIO-6); and • Avoidance of the breeding season of California least tern and western snowy plover (Mitigation Measure MM BIO-10). 3. Follow-up surveys are needed because Padre Associates was not allowed access in some areas (see response to Comment 2), and pre-construction breeding bird surveys are needed immediately prior to construction to avoid migratory birds to the extent feasible (see MM BIO-1). Both Mitigation Measures BIO-5 and BIO-6 focus on avoidance of impacts through modification of the pipeline alignment. 4. CMWD understands that transplanting listed plant species is not appropriate; therefore, transplanting was presented as the last option in Mitigation Measure BIO-5. However, transplanting may be appropriate for non-listed species, such as red sand verbena. No permanent loss of habitat would occur, the pipeline would be fully buried and native plant communities would be restored within areas disturbed by construction (see MM BIO-8).
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
5. The referenced loss of riparian habitat would occur as part of Phase II (mostly pipeline segment C-D). As stated in the introductory paragraph of the comment letter, Phase II is assessed at a program-level and will require additional environmental review. The purpose of including Phase II in the EIR/EA is to fully examine the impacts of the entire project. Section 15378(a) of the State CEQA Guidelines states: “‘Project’ means the whole of an action, which has a potential for resulting in a physical change in the environment, directly or ultimately…” Many of the components of Phase II may never be implemented, but CMWD is required by CEQA to identify impacts. The selection of alignments for Phase II was primarily based on engineering considerations and not environmental. Final pipeline alignments for Phase II would be selected following the completion of subsequent environmental documents and would likely avoid riparian areas when feasible. 6. CMWD conducted extensive ocean plume modeling of both outfalls to determine the “suitability” of the outfalls to properly dilute flows from the proposed project and meet the effluent limitations of the Ocean Plan. This modeling is summarized in the EIR/EA (see pages 5.4-20 through 5.4-25, and pages 5.4-40, 5.4-41). As indicated in the EIR/EA, the Ormond Beach power plant outfall is preferred due to lack of demonstrated long-term capacity at the Oxnard outfall. The outfall is not too short, but may require modifications due to lack of dilution when power plant cooling water is not discharged. The City of Oxnard has requested an increase in permitted outfall capacity from the Regional Water Quality Control Board from 22.6 to 31.7 mgd. If this request is not granted, expansion or modification of the outfall will be required to meet the City’s long- term needs. Therefore, it appears that outfall capacity for the proposed project is not currently available. The proposed project may require a coastal development permit; however, this permit would be issued by the City of Oxnard and not the Coastal Commission. The State Lands Commission may become involved if outfall modifications are required; however, Reliant Energy owns the outfall and would be responsible for obtaining any permits. 7. CMWD believes the EIR/EA provides an adequate level of detail for Phase I and complies with the requirements of both CEQA and NEPA. The document was distributed to all responsible and trustee agencies, and analyzes all feasible alternatives (and some not considered feasible).
Calleguas Municipal Water District Calleguas Regional Salinity Management Project Response to Comments
Commenter: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Date: July 31, 2002 1. The reduction of surface flow rates into Mugu Lagoon would be caused by a project- related reduction in discharge to Conejo Creek from the Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant. The pipeline connection to the Camarillo Water Reclamation Plant would not occur as part of Phase I (see Table 3-2 of the DEIR/EA). As stated on page 1-2, the fundamental goal of the DEIR/EA is to comply with CEQA and NEPA for Phase I, only. We understand the Service’s concerns regarding Phase II; however, we feel that Phase I is not likely to adversely affect light-footed clapper rail. We plan to work closely with the Service to resolve the confusion regarding project phasing and fully comply with the Endangered Species Act. 2. We agree with the Service, loss of dry season surface flow in Phase II may result in adverse effects to least Bell’s vireo. However, Phase I is limited to transportation of effluent from the Camrosa Water Reclamation Facility which is not typically discharged to Calleguas Creek. Reclamation requested concurrence on Phase I only, which would not cause any change in current discharge rates of wastewater to the Calleguas Creek watershed and is not likely to adversely affect least Bell’s vireo . We plan to work closely with the Service to resolve the confusion regarding project phasing and fully comply with the Endangered Species Act. 3. We agree with the Service, ocean discharge of brine and wastewater in Phase II may result in adverse effects to California brown pelican and least tern. However, the project must comply with the effluent limitations of the Ocean Plan, which would mitigate potential impacts. In any case, Reclamation requested concurrence on Phase I only, which is not likely to adversely affect these species. We plan to work closely with the Service to resolve the confusion regarding project phasing and fully comply with the Endangered Species Act.
APPENDIX A Notice of Preparation and Initial Study
APPENDIX B Responses to Notice of Preparation
APPENDIX C Air Quality Emissions Calculations
APPENDIX D Noise Model Output
Table 2-1. Summary of Significant Unavoidable Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION MITIGATION MEASURES MEASURES & IMPACTS IMPACTS AND RESIDUAL IMPACTS RESIDUAL IMPACTS 5.1 LAND USE
Phase I. No significant impacts were identified. None necessary Phase I. Segment G-H Alternative Mitigation Alignment B would require a Measure - The Phase II. No significant impacts were identified. diversion structure to be located diversion structure south of the Reliant Energy power proposed for plant, within a Resource Protection Segment G-H zone. The precise location of this Alternative B shall facility has not been determined. be located to avoid The construction and operation of sensitive habitat the diversion structure may and provide a adversely impact sensitive habitat, minimum 50 foot and would be inconsistent with wide buffer area. Section 30240 of the Coastal Act Residual Impacts and Oxnard Coastal Land Use Plan Implementation of Policy 6.d, which requires the mitigation preservation of sensitive habitat and measure would a minimum buffer of 50 feet reduce land use surrounding sensitive habitat. This impacts of the policy inconsistency would be Segment G-H considered a significant impact. Alternative B Phase II. No significant impacts diversion structure were identified. to a level of less than significant.
However, CMWD does not own the site of the proposed diversion structure, and may not have control over the ultimate location of this facility. Therefore, impacts may not be avoidable and would remain significant.
Table 2-1. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION MITIGATION MEASURES MEASURES IMPACTS IMPACTS AND RESIDUAL IMPACTS AND RESIDUAL IMPACTS 5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Phase I. No significant unavoidable Phase I. Mitigation measures are not necessary. Phase I. No Same as the impacts were identified. significant Proposed Action Phase II - Mitigation Measure unavoidable impacts Phase II. Stream flow would be MM WR-3. As part of future environmental documentation, prior to project were identified. reduced because effluent (Simi implementation, CMWD shall complete a beneficial resource study and the Valley Water Quality Control Plant Phase II. Same as recommendations fully implemented. The study shall include the following and Camarillo Water Reclamation identified for the components: Plant) currently discharged to Proposed Action. streams would be lost as brine to 1. Hydrology study determining the potential change in wetted bottom area, and the proposed pipeline, and relative importance of dry season flow and storm flow in maintaining saturated groundwater from the Simi Valley soils; dewatering wells would be 2. Habitat inventory and wetland delineation of all areas affected by stream flow reclaimed and not discharged to reduction; Arroyo Simi. Reduction in surface 3. Fish and wildlife inventory of affected reaches, focusing on special status flow may result in the reduction in species; the area of riparian communities and wildlife habitat, and aquatic 4. Assessment of the loss of riparian habitat area and wetlands associated with habitat. In addition, dry season reduced dry season flow, and probable effects on fish and wildlife; surface water is critical for the 5. Mitigation measures, including purchase of groundwater and/or reclaimed water survival of aquatic species, from wastewater treatment plants for stream discharge to maintain beneficial including sensitive fish and reptiles; uses, and off-site habitat creation/restoration. arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle and two-striped garter snake. The assessment of impacts and development of mitigation measures shall be However, determining the amount sufficiently detailed to determine the nature and magnitude of the impact, and the of flow reduction that would have a effects of the mitigation measures in reducing impacts to a level of less than significant impact is very site- significant. Concept plans for mitigation shall be completed prior to project operation. specific and is outside the scope of Residual Impacts this program-level document. For Full implementation of Mitigation Measure WR-3 would maintain beneficial uses the purposes of this document, flow including groundwater replenishment, recreation, freshwater habitat, wildlife habitat reductions are assumed to have a and wetlands. However, the quality of this habitat (including wetlands) for special- significant impact by adversely status species may be degraded by reductions in surface flows. Additional analysis affecting special-status species, would be required at the time more detailed information regarding the potential wetlands, and fish and wildlife volume and timing of project-related surface flow reduction is available. It is habitat (Impact BIO-14). important to realize that wastewater and poor quality groundwater discharged to streams would be reclaimed for other uses (termination of stream disposal) in the absence of the proposed project, what is unclear at this time is the effect of the proposed project in accelerating this process. Therefore, in the absence of site- specific hydrologic analyses, residual impacts to biological resources may be significant. Table 2-1. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION MITIGATION MEASURES MEASURES & IMPACTS IMPACTS AND RESIDUAL IMPACTS RESIDUAL IMPACTS 5.7 NOISE Phase I. No significant unavoidable impacts were Phase I. Mitigation measures are not Phase I. No significant unavoidable Same as the identified. necessary. impacts were identified. Proposed Action Phase II. Nighttime work may be required for tunneling Phase II. Phase II. Nighttime work may be under Calleguas Creek, Arroyo Simi and U.S. 101, which required for tunneling under Mitigation Measures would significantly impact residences at the Lamplighter Calleguas Creek, Conejo Creek, mobile home park and homes on Avenida Colonia (and 1. Noise Control Corporation STC-30 noise Arroyo Simi and U.S. 101, which possibly the Via del Arroyo mobile home park) in blankets (or equivalent 13 dBA noise would significantly impact residences Moorpark. Nighttime exceedances of noise thresholds are attenuation) shall be utilized to fully along: considered a significant impact (Impact N-1) enclose all equipment associated with 1. Segment B-C Alternative A tunneling, if residences or schools are Nighttime exceedances of noise standards would located within 2,000 feet and work crossing of Arroyo Simi contribute to ambient traffic noise levels and are (residences on Avenida Colonia); occurs after 6 p.m.; considered cumulatively significant (Impact N-2) 2. Segment D-E Alternative A 2. No construction work shall occur within crossing of U.S. 101 (residences 350 feet of a residence after 6 p.m. or on at the Lamplighter mobile home Sunday (even with noise blankets installed); park); 3. Heavy equipment activity adjacent to 3. Segment D-E Alternative B residences shall be limited to the crossings of Calleguas and Conejo Creeks (residences on minimal period required to complete Adolfo Road); and pipeline installation; and 4. Segment D-E Alternative C 4. Equipment engine covers shall be in crossing of Calleguas Creek place and mufflers shall be in good (residences on Adolfo Road). working condition. Nighttime exceedances of noise Residual Impacts thresholds are considered a Nighttime construction work may be required significant impact. for tunneling, and noise standards would be Nighttime exceedances of noise exceeded at adjacent residences even with standards would contribute to ambient noise blankets in place. Noise impacts in these areas may not be fully mitigable and traffic noise levels and are considered cumulatively significant. residual impacts would be significant.
Table 2-2. Summary of Significant Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.2 GEOLOGY Phase I. Phases I and II. Phase I. Same as the Proposed Segment F-G would cross Calleguas Creek and Revolon MM GEO-1. The following measures Segment F-G would cross Calleguas Creek Action. Slough. Segment G-H would cross a tributary to the shall be fully implemented to reduce and Revolon Slough. Segment G-H Oxnard Drain at the terminus of Edison Road. These geologic and soil-related impacts: Alternative A would cross the Oxnard crossings may be completed using tunneling or trenching Industrial Drain. Segment G-H Alternative B 1. Appropriate Best Management methods. Should trenching methods be used to install this would cross the Oxnard Drain at the terminus Practices, as established in the segment, significant soil erosion associated with of Arnold Road. These crossings may be project’s National Pollutant disturbance of the bed and banks of these drainages may completed using tunneling or trenching Discharge Elimination System occur (Impact GEO-1). methods. Should trenching methods be used Construction Storm Water Permit, to install this segment, significant soil erosion Phase II. shall be employed at all associated with disturbance of the bed and construction sites. Such measures Segment B-C would cross Arroyo Simi several times; banks of these drainages may occur. may include, but are not limited to, however, these crossings would completed using temporary sand bagging, Phase II. tunneling methods, such that soil erosion within and construction of berms, installation adjacent to this drainage would not occur. However, Segment B-C Alternative A would cross of geofabric, and revegetation of smaller drainages (including Alamos Canyon, Grimes Arroyo Simi several times; however, these areas by hydroseeding and Canyon, and smaller unnamed drainages) may be crossed crossings would completed using tunneling mulching. CMWD shall be using trenching methods. Should trenching methods be methods, such that soil erosion within and responsible for implementation by used to install this segment, significant soil erosion adjacent to this drainage would not occur. the construction contractor. associated with disturbance of the bed and banks of these However, smaller drainages (including drainages may occur (Impact GEO-2). 2. All trench crossings of intermittent Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon, and smaller drainages shall be conducted when unnamed drainages) may be crossed using Segment C-D would cross smaller drainages (including no surface flows are present, and trenching methods. Should trenching Long Canyon, Balcolm Canyon, and smaller unnamed shall be re-contoured, re- methods be used to install this segment, drainages) using trenching methods. Should trenching compacted and revegetated to significant soil erosion associated with methods be used to install this segment, significant soil approximate pre-project conditions disturbance of the bed and banks of these erosion associated with disturbance of the bed and banks at the earliest practicable date. drainages may occur. of these drainages may occur (Impact GEO-3). CMWD shall be responsible for Segment C-D would cross smaller drainages implementation by the construction (including Long Canyon, Balcolm Canyon, contractor. and smaller unnamed drainages) using 3. Emergency shut-off valves shall be trenching methods. Should trenching designed and installed at all methods be used to install this segment, locations where flows would enter significant soil erosion associated with the pipeline, especially at critical disturbance of the bed and banks of these areas such as active fault zones drainages may occur. (Segments A-B, D-E2).
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.4 WATER RESOURCES
Construction activities are expected to result in MM WR-1. The following measures shall be The alternative pipeline alignments Same as the exceedances of water quality objectives in surface waters included in the Stormwater Pollution would have the same construction- Proposed for turbidity, nutrients, metals and organic compounds, Prevention Plan and implemented by the related impacts as the Proposed Action. Action. which is considered significant water quality impact construction contractor in coordination with The alternative pipeline alignments (Impact WR-1). CMWD to minimize disturbance of sediments would have the same impacts to ocean and erosion, and reduce the potential for Ammonia and copper concentrations at the Ormond Beach water quality, surface water quality, hydrocarbon discharge from construction ocean outfall would exceed Ocean Plan water quality surface water quantity and groundwater equipment: objectives, when the power plant was not pumping cooling quality as the Proposed Action. water through the outfall (Scenarios 4 and 5). This water 1. De-watering shall be conducted for However, the alternative ocean outfall quality impact is considered significant (Impact WR-2). excavation below the water table and (and associated Pipeline Segment G- include discharge to a sediment basin Mercury concentrations at the Ormond Beach ocean outfall H1) would have less than significant (or equivalent) prior to entering storm would exceed Ocean Plan water quality objectives, when impacts to ocean water quality. drains, creeks or other surface water the power plant was not pumping cooling water through the (BMP’s CA1, ESC56); outfall (Scenarios 4 and 5). However, estimates of effluent concentration are based on high detection limit analytical 2. Soil borings shall be conducted and soils methods. This potential water quality impact is considered shall be tested prior to construction significant (Impact WR-3). within the bed or banks of local creeks in order to identify potential metal and/or Diversion of wastewater currently discharged to streams pesticide contamination. If contaminants would be lost as brine to the proposed pipeline, and found in these soils (if any) exceed groundwater from the Simi Valley dewatering wells would levels considered hazardous as defined be reclaimed and not discharged to Arroyo Simi. Stream in the California Code of Regulations, flow in Arroyo Simi would be reduced by 38 percent (6.1 to Title 22, Section 22621 et. seq., they 3.8 cfs) upstream of the Simi Valley WQCP, and reduced shall be stored on an impermeable by 23 to 31 percent downstream of the Simi Valley WQCP. surface (or equivalent measures) to Stream flow in Arroyo Las Posas would be reduced by 37 prevent contamination of surrounding to 51 percent upstream of the MWTP (Hitch Blvd). Stream areas and removed to an appropriate flow in Conejo Creek would be reduced by 9 to 18 percent disposal site (BMP CA22); downstream of the Camarillo WRP. Stream flow in Calleguas Creek would be reduced by 3 to 7 percent at SR 3. Heavy equipment shall be fueled in a 1. The reduction in stream flow is expected to impair designated area away from creeks, beneficial uses such as recreation, wildlife habitat and storm drains and culverts should be wetlands (see Section 5.5) and is considered a significant used. This designated area shall include impact to water resources (Impact WR-4). a drain pan or drop cloth and absorbent materials to clean up spills (BMP CA31);
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.4 WATER RESOURCES (continued)
Surface water impacts were assessed based on current 4. Vehicles and equipment shall be wastewater generation rates. Future increases in maintained properly to prevent leakage. population and wastewater generation may reduce surface If maintenance must occur onsite, a water quantity impacts by providing more RO-treated designated area away from creeks, wastewater for discharge to surface waters. These storm drains and culverts shall be used. impacts are a result of regional population growth and may This designated area shall include a be considered cumulative impacts. However, even if future drain pan or drop cloth and adsorbent increases in wastewater discharge to surface waters fully materials to clean up spills (BMP CA32); offset surface water quantity impacts of the project, a 5. Construction activities within or significant impact would have occurred in the interim. immediately adjacent to intermittent Therefore, cumulative surface water quantity impacts are streams shall occur following the considered significant (Impact WR-5) seasonal termination of surface flow to avoid surface water (BMP ESC1 in part);
6. Construction activities within or immediately adjacent to perennial streams shall include diversion of surface flow around all work areas to prevent working in flowing water. This may require alternately diverting flows to one side of the creek bed, to allow work on the opposite side of the creek bed and bank to proceed. Non-erosive materials such as sand bags shall be used to construct the diversion berm (BMP ESC52);
7. Vegetation adjacent to construction activities shall be preserved when feasible to minimize erosion (BMP ESC2);
8. A temporary stream crossing with culvert shall be constructed if repeated crossing of flowing water by heavy equipment or vehicles is necessary (BMP ESC22);
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.4 WATER RESOURCES (Continued)
MM WR-2. Prior to any discharge to the proposed pipeline system, each prospective discharger shall complete an ocean impact analysis using a dilution model acceptable to the LARWQCB. The analysis shall be based on design flow rates and median constituent concentrations, consistent with the Water Quality Analysis conducted by LWA (2001). Extensive water quality testing shall be conducted on the prospective water source, using methods and minimum levels consistent with the Ocean Plan. The discharger shall demonstrate compliance with the effluent limitations of the Ocean Plan, and any other requirements of the NPDES permit issued for the proposed project.
MM WR-3. As part of future environmental documentation, prior to project implementation, CMWD shall complete a beneficial resource study and the recommendations fully implemented. The study shall include the following components:
1. Hydrology study determining the potential change in wetted bottom area, and relative importance of dry season flow and storm flow in maintaining saturated soils;
2. Habitat inventory and wetland delineation of all areas affected by stream flow reduction;
3. Fish and wildlife inventory of affected reaches, focusing on special status species;
4. Assessment of the loss of riparian habitat area and wetlands associated with reduced dry season flow, and probable effects on fish and wildlife;
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.4 WATER RESOURCES (Continued)
5. Mitigation measures, including purchase of reclaimed water from wastewater treatment plants for stream discharge to maintain beneficial uses, and off-site habitat creation/restoration.
The assessment of impacts and development of mitigation measures shall be sufficiently detailed to determine the nature and magnitude of the impact, and the effects of the mitigation measures in reducing impacts to a level of less than significant. Concept plans for mitigation shall be completed prior to project operation.
5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Phase I. Phase I. Phase I - Alternative A Phase I - Alternative A Installation of Segment G-H2 would result in the loss of MM BIO-1. Breeding bird surveys shall be Installation of Pipeline Segment G-H1 about 0.1 acres of brackish marsh, up to 0.2 acres of conducted by CMWD in May and June prior to would result in the loss of up to 1.0 Measures MM southern coastal salt marsh and up to 0.9 acres of the initiation of construction at all proposed acres of coastal salt marsh, and 0.1 BIO-1 through MM southern foredunes. Southern coastal salt marsh and creek crossings and pipeline segments adjacent acres of freshwater or brackish BIO-8 provided for brackish marsh are expected to meet the Corps, CDFG to creeks. Surveys shall include all suitable marsh. Southern coastal salt marsh, the Proposed and County wetland definitions. The loss of these habitat within 500 feet of identified impact areas. coastal freshwater marsh and coastal Action are sensitive communities and wetlands is considered a No heavy equipment shall be operated within brackish marsh are considered applicable to this significant impact (Impact BIO-1). 200 feet of any active nest of migratory bird sensitive communities and would Alternative. In species. meet the Corps, CDFG and County addition, the The Segment G-H2 pipeline would be located adjacent wetland definitions. The loss of following measure to known populations of salt marsh bird’s beak, red sand MM BIO-2. Habitat mapping shall be conducted sensitive communities and wetlands is is provided: verbena, spiny rush, globose dune beetle, wandering at all creek crossings and near the Reliant considered a significant impact. skipper and Belding's savannah sparrow. In addition, Energy power plant by a qualified biologist prior MM BIO-12. The sandy beach tiger beetle may occur within the to finalizing engineering design, and final Tidewater goby has been reported pipeline crossing foredunes. Direct loss of individuals and/or habitat of pipeline alignments shall be selected to avoid from the Oxnard Industrial Drain and of the Oxnard these special-status species, and indirect effects (dust native vegetation and sensitive communities to may be adversely affected by Industrial Drain and noise) is considered a significant impact (Impact the extent feasible. trenching, through increases in shall be completed BIO-2). turbidity, sedimentation-related loss of by tunneling to MM BIO-3. The disturbance corridor (impact habitat and stranding. Southern avoid impacts to Tidewater goby may occur in the tributary to the Oxnard areas) shall be reduced in width to 40 feet coastal salt marsh is considered brackish marsh, Drain at the terminus of Edison Road, and may be adjacent to sensitive communities and habitat for salt marsh shrew, Belding's wetlands, adversely affected by trenching, through increases in wetlands, where alternate trench spoil storage savannah sparrow and wandering tidewater goby and turbidity, sedimentation-related loss of habitat and and pipe lay-down areas are available. skipper. Loss of this habitat may California brackish stranding. These adverse effects may result in result in significant impacts to these water snail. significant impacts to this species (Impact BIO-3). species.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase I. Phase I. Phase I – Alternative A Phase I - Alternative B Least terns and western snowy plovers may be nesting MM BIO-4. Impact areas shall be staked in the The proposed diversion structure may within or in close proximity to the Segment G-H2 field by a surveyor, in coordination with CMWD be located in an area supporting Measures MM pipeline alignment. Construction activities would and the construction contractor, immediately southern coastal salt marsh, and up to BIO-1 through remove nesting habitat, disturb nesting birds and may prior to the initiation of construction. 0.3 acres of this community may be MM BIO-8, and result in nest abandonment and loss of eggs and/or Construction activities shall be monitored in the affected by diversion structure MM BIO-10 nestlings. These potential impacts are considered vicinity of sensitive habitats and known locations construction. The loss of this sensitive provided for the significant (Impact BIO-4). of special-status species, to ensure no community is considered a significant Proposed Action disturbance occurs outside the staked impact impact. Southern coastal salt marsh is are applicable to Phase II. area. The monitor shall be designated by the considered habitat for salt marsh shrew this Alternative. Segment A-B pipeline installation may directly affect construction contractor and approved by CMWD and wandering skipper. Loss of this In addition, the Plummer’s mariposa lily, Catalina mariposa lily, coast and have completed coursework in biology and habitat may result in significant impacts following live oak, coastal western whiptail, Southern California conservation. The monitor shall work with to these species. measure is rufous-crowned sparrow, and San Diego desert woodrat CMWD staff and the construction contractor to provided: Phase I – Alternative B by loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a modify the impact area as needed to minimize MM BIO-13. temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and impacts and meet the goals of the project. Installation of Pipeline Segment G-H2 The pipeline night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline would result in the loss of up to 1.7 MM BIO-5. Botanical surveys shall be crossing of the installation activities. In addition, mature trees protected acres of coastal brackish marsh, 5.2 conducted at all creek crossings and near the Oxnard Drain under Section 9-1.1503 of the Simi Valley Zoning acres of coastal salt marsh and 2.8 Reliant Energy power plant prior to selecting (Segment G-H) Ordinance would be removed or damaged. Impacts to acres of southern foredune. Southern final pipeline alignments to determine the shall be special-status species are considered significant coastal salt marsh and coastal brackish presence and distribution of special-status plant completed by (Impact BIO-5). marsh are also expected to meet the species within designated impact areas. tunneling to Corps, CDFG and County wetland Installation of Segment B-C pipeline would result in the Botanical surveys shall be conducted by a avoid impacts to definitions. The loss of these sensitive loss of 5.5 acres of coastal sage scrub, 7.3 acres of qualified botanist during known flowering brackish marsh, communities and wetlands is considered arroyo willow riparian forest and 0.1 acres of southern periods of plant species listed in Table 5.5-3 and wetlands, a significant impact. riparian scrub. This impact is considered significant, focus on areas that would be disturbed by the tidewater goby because these communities are becoming rare in the project. If special-status plant species would be Installation of Pipeline Segment G-H2 and California region (Impact BIO-6). adversely affected by the project, mitigation may directly or indirectly affect known brackish water measures shall include one or more of the populations of salt marsh bird’s beak, snail. Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest following: red sand verbena, spiny rush, globose (Arroyo Simi, Alamos Canyon, Grimes Canyon) along dune beetle, wandering skipper, Segment B-C are expected to meet the criteria for • Modifying the pipeline alignment or diversion Belding's savannah sparrow, California wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and structure location to avoid or minimize least tern and western snowy plover. In some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria impacts; addition, tidewater goby, California for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of • Preservation of the majority of the population brackish water snail, and sandy beach wetlands is considered a significant impact (Impact through a permanent conservation tiger beetle may occur in close proximity BIO-7). easement; and to the alignment. These effects would • Transplanting individual plants (perennials) be considered a significant impact. or seeds (annuals) from impact areas to restoration areas.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES
5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. MM BIO-6. Focused wildlife surveys shall be Phase I – Alternative B Phase II - conducted at all creek crossings and near the Alternative A Installation of pipeline Segment B-C may directly affect The proposed Alternative B diversion Reliant Energy power plant prior to the initiation Plummer’s mariposa lily, Catalina mariposa lily, coast structure would also be located Measures MM of construction by a qualified biologist to identify live oak, black walnut, western sycamore, arroyo chub, immediately adjacent to known BIO-1 through the presence and distribution of special-status coastal western whiptail, silvery legless lizard, San populations of red sand verbena, MM BIO-8 species. Survey methodology developed by Bernardino ring-neck snake, San Diego mountain globose dune beetle, California least provided for the CDFG and USFWS shall be followed for all kingsnake, coast patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, tern and western snowy plover. Direct Proposed Action threatened or endangered species. Mitigation least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, loss of individuals and/or habitat of these are applicable to measures shall be developed to avoid, minimize loggerhead shrike, coastal cactus wren, California special-status species, and indirect this Alternative. or offset impacts to the extent feasible, and may gnatcatcher, California horned lark, Bell’s sage sparrow, construction-related effects (dust and include: Phase II - grasshopper sparrow, Southern California rufous- noise) is considered a significant impact. Alternatives B crowned sparrow, San Diego desert woodrat, San Diego 1. Modifying the pipeline alignment or Phase II - Alternative A and C black-tailed jackrabbit, American badger and ringtail by diversion structure location to avoid or loss of habitat and/or individuals, or indirectly as a minimize impacts; Installation of Pipeline Segment B-C Measures MM temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and would result in the loss of up to 30 acres BIO-1 through 2. Limit construction activities to the non- night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline of riparian scrub and riparian forest MM BIO-8, and breeding season; installation activities. In addition, trenching within or during pipeline installation. Southern MM BIO-11 adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation 3. Diverting water from the Simi Valley riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian provided for the of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect dewatering wells to Arroyo Simi to maintain forest are expected to meet the criteria Proposed Action arroyo chub. In addition, mature trees protected under habitat for riparian-dependent and aquatic for wetlands under the County and are applicable to Section 9-1.1503 of the Simi Valley Zoning Ordinance special-status species; CDFG definitions, and some portion of these and oak trees protected under Section 8107-25 of the this area is expected to meet the criteria Alternatives. 4. Relocating aquatic species (arroyo chub, Ventura County Zoning Ordinance would be removed or for wetlands under the Corps definition. pond turtle and two-striped garter snake) damaged. Impacts to special-status species are The loss of sensitive communities and during dewatering (if needed) or other considered significant (Impact BIO-8). wetlands is considered a significant instream construction activities; and impact. Installation of Segment C-D may result in the loss of up 5. Reducing population levels of invasive to 45 acres of arroyo willow riparian forest and southern Installation of Segment B-C may directly species (giant reed, crayfish, bullfrogs, riparian scrub. This impact is considered a significant, or indirectly affect coast live oak, black large-mouth bass) that reduce habitat because these communities are becoming rare in the walnut, western sycamore, arroyo chub, value for special-status species. region (Impact BIO-9). coastal western whiptail, silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest MM BIO-7. Wetland delineations shall be San Diego mountain kingsnake, coast (Arroyo Las Posas and three tributaries) along Segment conducted by CMWD during the spring prior to patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, C-D are expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the initiation of construction of all trenched least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow- the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of stream crossings, and salt marsh and brackish breasted chat, loggerhead shrike, San this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands marsh within designated impact areas. The Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, American under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is pipeline alignment shall be modified to avoid badger and ringtail. considered a significant impact (Impact BIO-10). wetlands to the extent feasible.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase I. Phase II – Alternative A
Special-status species which may occur in close MM BIO-8. A restoration plan shall be In addition, trenching within or adjacent proximity to the Segment C-D disturbance corridor developed by CMWD to restore pre-construction to stream channels may result in include coast live oak, black walnut, arroyo chub, silvery topography, and replace wetlands, native plant sedimentation of downstream aquatic legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, coast communities and wildlife habitat affected by habitats, and adversely affect arroyo patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, project construction. Affected areas shall be chub. In addition, mature trees yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These returned to pre-construction conditions, or protected under Section 9-1.1503 of the species may be directly affected by loss of habitat better, in terms of native plant cover, species Simi Valley Zoning Ordinance and oak and/or individuals, or indirectly as a temporary loss of composition and diversity. The plan shall be trees protected under Section 8107-25 foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if prepared in coordination with trustee agencies of the Ventura County Zoning Ordinance needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. and include erosion control methods and would be removed or damaged. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream materials, specific planting areas, plant palettes, Impacts to special-status species are channels may result in sedimentation of downstream sources of plant material, propagation methods, considered significant. aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. In planting methods, monitoring and maintenance Installation of Segment C-D would result addition, oak trees protected under Section 8107-25 of methods and success criteria. The restoration in the loss of up to 0.3 acres of southern the Ventura County Zoning Ordinance would be plan shall be completed and approved by cottonwood-willow riparian forest, 0.5 removed or damaged. Impacts to special-status species regulatory agencies (if required) prior to the acres of southern willow scrub, 0.2 acres are considered significant (Impact BIO-11). initiation of construction. Restoration shall be of mulefat scrub and 0.2 acres of implemented within one year of the completion Special-status species (or suitable habitat) within or California walnut woodland. Southern of construction. immediately adjacent to the Segment D-E2-E1 cottonwood-willow riparian forest, disturbance corridor include arroyo chub, southwestern MM BIO-9. The pipeline crossing of the southern willow scrub and California pond turtle, two-striped garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, tributary of the Oxnard Drain shall be completed walnut woodland are considered yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These by tunneling to avoid impacts to tidewater goby, sensitive communities. Southern species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of brackish marsh and wetlands. cottonwood-willow riparian forest, foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if southern willow scrub and mulefat scrub needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. are also expected to meet the criteria for In addition, pipeline installation along Conejo Creek may wetlands under the County and CDFG disturb southwestern pond turtle burrows and result in definitions, and some portion of this area some mortality. Impacts to special-status species are is expected to meet the criteria for considered significant (Impact BIO-12). wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of sensitive communities and Special-status species (or suitable habitat) within or wetlands is considered a significant immediately adjacent to the Segment E2-F disturbance impact. corridor include arroyo chub, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. These species would be indirectly affected by temporary loss of foraging habitat due to noise, dust and night lighting (if needed) associated with pipeline installation activities. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant (Impact BIO-13).
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase I. Phase II – Alternative A
As discussed in Section 5.4 (Water Resources), MM BIO-10. Construction work within or Installation of Segment D-E2-E1 may discharge of the pipeline to the existing outfall at the adjacent to the dunes at the Reliant Energy directly or indirectly affect arroyo chub, Ormond Beach power plant would result in exceedances power plant shall be conducted between southwestern pond turtle, two-striped of California Ocean Plan water quality objectives for September 1 and March 1 to avoid the breeding garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, yellow ammonia, copper and mercury. These water quality season of California least tern and western warbler, yellow-breasted chat and objectives were developed to protect marine life. snowy plover. However, if construction work ringtail. In addition, pipeline installation Therefore, exceedances of these water quality must be completed during this time period, the along Conejo Creek may disturb objectives would substantially degrade the quality of the following measure shall be implemented: southwestern pond turtle burrows and marine environment and may have lethal or sublethal result in some mortality. Impacts to No more than one week prior to the initiation of effects to invertebrates, fish, marine birds and marine special-status species are considered work near the dunes, an intensive survey of the mammals, including special-status species (California significant. work area shall be conducted by a biologist least tern, California brown pelican and marine approved by USFWS to determine the Installation of Segment E2-F may mammals). This water quality impact to biological presence/absence of active nests or foraging directly or indirectly affect arroyo chub, resources is considered significant (Impact BIO-15). activities by California least terns and western Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow- The Ventura Council of Governments projects that snowy plovers. If active nests are found, all breasted chat and ringtail. Impacts to Ventura County will grow in population by 8 percent from areas within 500 feet of the nest site(s) shall be special-status species are considered 2001 to 2010, and by 18 percent by 2020. These clearly marked and avoided during construction. significant. population projections form the basis of the Ventura No disturbance shall occur within this protective Phase II – Alternative B County General Plan. Most of this population growth is area until all birds have fledged, as confirmed by expected to occur in Ventura, Camarillo, Oxnard, Simi the biologist. Installation of Pipeline Segment B-C Valley and Thousand Oaks. Development projects would result in the loss of 5.5 acres of Phase II. associated with this growth may be under construction coastal sage scrub, 7.0 acres of arroyo at the time the proposed project is implemented. The Measures MM BIO-1 through MM BIO-8 are willow riparian forest and 0.1 acres of proposed project would incrementally contribute to applicable to Phase II. However, habitat southern riparian scrub. This impact is construction-related impacts to special-status species, mapping and field surveys (MM BIO-2, -5 and – considered significant, because these sensitive habitats and wetlands associated with these 6) shall be conducted within impact areas communities are becoming rare in the other projects, and would result in cumulatively supporting native plant communities, riparian region. significant impacts to these resources (Impact BIO-16). vegetation or windrows. In addition, the Southern riparian scrub and arroyo following measure is provided to minimize willow riparian forest are expected to impacts to marine resources. meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is considered a significant impact.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase II – Alternative B
MM BIO-11. CMWD shall coordinate and Installation of Segment B-C may directly cooperate with Reliant Energy in completing or indirectly affect Plummer’s mariposa sampling and analysis of water quality, fish and lily, Catalina mariposa lily, coast live macroinvertebrates, mussels, benthic infauna oak, black walnut, western sycamore, and sediments required by the Ormond Beach arroyo chub, coastal western whiptail, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino permit. CMWD shall analyze this data on an ring-neck snake, San Diego mountain annual basis to determine if the project’s kingsnake, coast patch-nosed snake, wastewater contribution has caused or Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow contributed to any violations of the standards or warbler, yellow-breasted chat, objectives of the 2001 California Ocean Plan. If loggerhead shrike, coastal cactus wren, violations are detected and can be reasonably California horned lark, Bell’s sage attributed to the project’s wastewater sparrow, grasshopper sparrow, contribution, CMWD shall terminate discharge to Southern California rufous-crowned the ocean until a remedy can be developed. sparrow, San Diego desert woodrat, San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, American
badger and ringtail. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant.
Installation of Pipeline Segment C-D would adversely affect a maximum of 22 acres of riparian communities. The loss of arroyo willow riparian forest and southern riparian scrub is considered a significant impact, because these communities are becoming rare in the region.
Southern riparian scrub and arroyo willow riparian forest are expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the County and CDFG definitions, and some portion of this area is expected to meet the criteria for wetlands under the Corps definition. The loss of wetlands is considered a significant impact.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES MITIGATION IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MEASURES 5.5 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II – Alternative B
Installation of Segment C-D may directly or indirectly affect coast live oak, black walnut, arroyo chub, silvery legless lizard, San Bernardino ring-neck snake, coast patch-nosed snake, Cooper’s hawk, least Bell’s vireo, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. In addition, trenching within or adjacent to stream channels may result in sedimentation of downstream aquatic habitats, and adversely affect arroyo chub. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant.
Installation of Segment D-E1 may directly or indirectly affect arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle, two-striped garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. In addition, pipeline installation may disturb southwestern pond turtle burrows and result in some mortality. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant.
Phase II – Alternative C
Installation of Segment D-E1 may directly or indirectly affect arroyo chub, southwestern pond turtle, two-striped garter snake, Cooper’s hawk, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat and ringtail. In addition, pipeline installation may disturb southwestern pond turtle burrows and result in some mortality. Impacts to special-status species are considered significant.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.10 RISK OF UPSET
Phase I. No significant impacts were identified. MM RISK-1. All pipeline stream crossings The discussion of impacts Same as the Proposed Action. shall be inspected by CMWD within 24 associated with the Proposed Phase II. hours of the termination of a major storm Action are applicable to the Pipeline failure and the resulting brine discharge to a event (return period of 5 years or greater). alternative pipeline alignments. waterbody would cause exceedances of water Flow to the affected segment shall be In addition, pipeline failure at quality objectives for TDS, chloride, boron, ammonia terminated within 4 hours upon the the Oxnard Industrial Drain and chromium (Segments C-D, D-E, E-F only). observation of any leakage. Exposure of the crossing (Segment G-H Beneficial uses would be impaired in the short-term, pipeline or damage (not causing leakage) Alternative A) would adversely resulting in a significant impact (Impact RISK-1). shall be evaluated by CMWD within one affect the endangered tidewater week of observation to determine the need goby, possibly resulting in fish Ammonia discharged to surface waters as part of a for repairs or protection of the pipeline to kills and extirpating this species pipeline failure is expected to include some increase prevent future failure. from this drainage. in ammonium hydroxide, and may result in fish kills. Fish potentially affected include arroyo chub MM RISK-2. Flow meters shall be installed (California Species of Special Concern) in Arroyo near or at the diversion structure to monitor Simi, Arroyo Las Posas and Conejo Creek, and total flow in the pipeline. Flow rates shall be tidewater goby (Federal Endangered) in the Oxnard continuously recorded and shall be Drain. Impacts to fish are considered significant monitored by CMWD within 24 hours of a (Impact RISK-2). major storm event to detect changes in flow associated with storm-related pipeline failure.
5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES
Phase I. Phase I. Phase I – Alternative A Phase I.
There is a potential that unknown buried MM CR-1. The following measures shall be There is a potential that MM CR-4. The following archaeological deposits may exist within or adjacent fully implemented to reduce potential unknown buried archaeological measures shall be fully to the pipeline alignment, and may be impacted by impacts to archeological resources to a less deposits may exist within or implemented to reduce potential trenching or other pipeline installation activities. Any than significant level: adjacent to the pipeline impacts to archeological such impact would be considered significant, if alignment, and may be resources to a less than 1. The final pipeline alignments and historically significant resources were adversely impacted by trenching or other significant level: associated construction impact corridor affected (Impact CR-1). pipeline installation activities. shall be field verified to ensure it lies Plans for monitoring, treatment Any such impact would be Project construction may require demolition, within the cultural resources APE of human remains, and considered significant, if destruction, relocation or alteration of its immediate surveyed by Conejo Archeological unplanned discoveries shall be historically significant resources surroundings of one or more of these structures. Consultants. An archaeologist shall written in consultation with were adversely affected. This impact would be considered significant, if conduct an archaeological survey of USBR, SHPO, Native historically significant resources were adversely those areas not previously surveyed, CMWD–1H is located within the Americans, interested parties, affected (Impact CR-2). including portions of Segment G-H APE of Segment F-G. This Site and Advisory Council, if they south of the terminus of Edison Road. has not been evaluated and chose to participate. These Additional mitigation measures and/or historically significant plans shall be incorporated into changes in the alignment to avoid subsurface resources may be the Final EIR/EA. resources to the extent feasible shall present. Therefore, impacts to
be developed. CMWD-1H are considered potentially significant. Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase I. Phase I – Alternative A Phase I.
Six prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-95, -631, -643, -693, - 2. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be Several structures appearing The final pipeline alignments and 864, -1341) have been reported from within the 300- drafted for mitigation of historic older than 50 years occur within associated construction impact foot-wide APE along the Phase II Proposed Action properties. All requirements of Section the APE. Project construction corridor shall be field verified to pipeline alignment. The stratigraphic integrity of 106 of the National Historic may require demolition, ensure it lies within the cultural these sites may be disrupted and artifacts may be Preservation Act shall be fully destruction, relocation or resources APE surveyed by lost as a result of pipeline installation. An additional implemented. alteration of its immediate Conejo Archeological prehistoric site (CA-VEN-340) is located in close surroundings of one or more of Consultants. An archaeologist 3. Plans for monitoring, treatment of proximity to the APE. Due the general uncertainty these structures. This impact shall conduct an archaeological human remains, and unplanned of actual site boundaries, this site may also be would be considered survey of those areas not discoveries shall be written in impacted by pipeline installation. Impacts to significant, if historically previously surveyed, including consultation with USBR, SHPO, Native prehistoric archaeological sites are considered significant resources were portions of Segment G-H Americans, interested parties, and potentially significant, pending further evaluation of adversely affected. Alternative A near the Oxnard Advisory Council, if they chose to their historical significance (see Mitigation Measure Wastewater Treatment Plant, participate. These plans shall be Phase II – Alternative A MM CR-3) (Impact CR-3). and portions of Segment G-H incorporated into the Final EIR/EA. Four prehistoric sites (CA-VEN- Alternative B near the Ormond Due to the high density of archeological sites in 4. A professional archaeologist shall 95, -643, -1089, -1341) have Beach power plant. Additional along Arroyo Simi, it is possible that trenching or provide a cultural resources orientation been reported from within the mitigation measures and/or other pipeline installation activities could expose to construction workers associated with APE of the Phase II Alternative changes in the alignment to unknown buried archaeological deposits and/or excavation activities. The orientation A alignment (including Segment avoid resources to the extent burials. If project excavation exposes any such shall include a description of the type of A-B shared with the other feasible shall be developed. deposit(s) (intact or disturbed), this would be a cultural resources that may be alignments). The stratigraphic potentially significant impact, pending further Historic archeological site encountered during construction and integrity of these sites may be evaluation of their historical significance (see CMWD-1H shall be avoided, if what steps are to be taken if such a disrupted and artifacts may be Mitigation Measure MM CR-3) (Impact CR-4). feasible. find is unearthed. lost as a result of pipeline The Proposed Action pipeline alignment traverses installation. An additional three A Memorandum of Agreement 5. In the event that intact archaeological CA-VEN-862H, and may result in a significant prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-227, shall be drafted for mitigation of deposits are exposed during project disturbance of this site (Impact CR-5). -340, -864) are located in close historic properties. All construction, all earth disturbing work proximity to the APE (see Table requirements of Section 106 of One landmark (no. 72, Pepper Trees) is located shall be terminated within the vicinity of 5.11-1). Due the general the National Historic within Proposed Action APE, and pipeline the find. In compliance with Plans uncertainty of actual site Preservation Act shall be fully installation may result in the loss or alteration of this developed as part of measure 3 above, boundaries, these three sites implemented. landmark (Impact CR-6). the find shall be evaluated by a may also be impacted by professional archaeologist in Portions of the Virginia Colony of Moorpark are pipeline installation. Impacts to consultation with affected Native located immediately adjacent to the APE. It is prehistoric archaeological sites American groups and SHPO, and unknown if these structures have been evaluated for are considered potentially mitigated as warranted. A Chumash eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places; significant, pending further consultant shall be retained to monitor however, it is likely that they are historically evaluation of their historical any fieldwork associated with Native significant under the CEQA definition. Substantial significance (see Mitigation American resources. After the find has adverse changes (demolition, destruction, relocation Measure MM CR-5). been appropriately mitigated, work in or alteration of the resource or its immediate the area may resume. surroundings) to these structures would be considered a significant impact (Impact CR-7). Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase I. Phase II – Alternative A Phase I.
Structures over 50 years old may be located within 6. In those areas determined Two historic archeological sites If impacts to CMWD-1H (or any or adjacent to the Proposed Action pipeline archaeologically sensitive for Native (CA-VEN-661H, 0862H) are other archaeological site alignment. Surveys would be required to identify American resources (southern half of located within the APE, and discovered under measure 1 and evaluate these structures. If project Edison Road), a professional pipeline installation along this above) cannot be feasibly construction requires demolition, destruction, archaeologist and Chumash consultant alignment may result in avoided, a Phase II Evaluation relocation or alteration of the resource or its shall be retained to monitor all significant disturbance of these Excavation and/or Phase III Data immediate surroundings of any structure 50 years or excavation activity. sites. Impacts to historic Recovery Excavation and/or a older, this could result in a significant impact (Impact archaeological sites are monitoring program shall be 7. If human remains are unearthed, State CR-8). considered potentially completed. The evaluation shall Health and Safety Code Section significant, pending further include a determination of Land development associated with population 7050.5 requires that no further evaluation of their historical eligibility for listing on the growth in the region (primarily in Oxnard, Simi Valley disturbance shall occur until the County significance (see Mitigation National Register of Historic and Moorpark) is expected to result in the continued Coroner has made the necessary Measure MM CR-2). Places. The effects of the degradation of cultural resources. The proposed findings as to origin and disposition proposed project on these project would incrementally contribute to this pursuant to Public Resources Code Three historic landmarks are resources (if any) shall be cumulatively significant impact to cultural resources Section 5097.98. If the remains are located within the APE, and determined, and Native (Impact CR-9). determined to be of Native American pipeline installation may result American representatives shall descent, the coroner has 24 hours to in the significant impacts be contacted. Mitigation notify the Native American Heritage associated with loss or measures shall be developed as Commission (NAHC). The NAHC substantial alteration of these appropriate for the significance would then contact the most likely sites. of the resource and magnitude of descendent of the deceased Native Portions of the Virginia Colony project impacts, and submitted to American, who would then serve as of Moorpark (Avenida Colonia) the State Historic Preservation consultant on how to proceed with the are located immediately Office for concurrence. Any remains. adjacent to the APE. other requirements for Section MM CR-2. The following measures shall be Substantial adverse changes 106 processing shall also be fully implemented to reduce potential (demolition, destruction, completed at that time. The site impacts to historic resources to a less than relocation or alteration of the evaluation and data recovery significant level: resource or its immediate shall be completed in surroundings) to these consultation with Reclamation, 1. The final pipeline alignments shall be structures would be considered SHPO, Native Americans and designed to avoid structures 50 years a significant impact. interested parties. or older.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase I. Phase II – Alternative A Phase I.
2. If any structure 50 years or older Structures over 50 years old A professional archaeologist cannot be avoided by project may be located within or shall provide a cultural resources construction, then a professional adjacent to the alternative orientation to construction historian shall be retained to conduct pipeline alignments. Surveys workers associated with an architectural historical evaluation of would be required to identify excavation activities. The the structure(s). The historic and evaluate these structures. orientation shall include a assessment shall determine the If project construction requires description of the type of cultural eligibility of the structures for the demolition, destruction, resources that may be National Register of Historic Places relocation or alteration of the encountered during construction and the California Register. Mitigation resource or its immediate and what steps are to be taken if measures shall be developed for surroundings of any structure such a find is unearthed. substantial adverse changes 50 years or older, this could In the event that intact (demolition, destruction, relocation or result in a significant impact. archaeological deposits are alteration of the resource or its Phase II – Alternative B exposed during project immediate surroundings) to historically construction, all earth disturbing significant structures, and may include There is a potential that work shall be terminated within documentation and relocation. unknown buried archaeological the vicinity of the find. In deposits may exist within or 3. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be compliance with Plans adjacent to the pipeline drafted for mitigation of historic developed as part of measure 3 alignment, and may be properties. All requirements of Section above, the find shall be impacted by trenching or other 106 of the National Historic evaluated by a professional pipeline installation activities. Preservation Act shall be fully archaeologist in consultation with Any such impact would be implemented. affected Native American groups considered significant, if and SHPO, and mitigated as Phase II. historically significant resources warranted. After the find has were adversely affected. MM CR-3. The following measures shall be been appropriately mitigated, fully implemented to reduce potential Three prehistoric sites (CA- work in the area may resume. impacts to archeological resources to a less VEN-643, -864, -1341) have In those areas determined than significant level: been reported from within the archaeologically sensitive for APE (including Segment A-B 1. Conduct a Phase I archaeological Native American resources shared with the other survey of those areas not subject to (Perkins Road-Alternative A, alignments). The stratigraphic previous archaeological Arnold Road south of 6054- integrity of these sites may be reconnaissance and re-survey those Alternative B), a professional disrupted and artifacts may be areas where previous survey work archaeologist and Chumash lost as a result of pipeline does not meet current professionally consultant shall be retained to installation. An additional four acceptable methodology standards. monitor all excavation activity. prehistoric sites (CA-VEN-228, 2. Incorporate the findings and -340, -631, -864) are located in recommendations of the Phase I close proximity to the APE of archaeological survey report into the the Phase II Alternative B project conditions. alignment. Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase II – Alternative B Phase I.
3. Conduct a new archaeological and Due the general uncertainty of If human remains are unearthed, historical record search, if surveys are actual site boundaries, these State Health and Safety Code not completed by June 2002. four sites may also be impacted Section 7050.5 requires that no by pipeline installation. Impacts further disturbance shall occur 4. Avoid recorded prehistoric and historic to prehistoric archaeological until the County Coroner has archaeological sites whenever feasible. sites are considered potentially made the necessary findings as This may require field checks and in significant, pending further to origin and disposition pursuant some cases boundary testing to verify evaluation of their historical to Public Resources Code the avoidance of impacts. significance (see Mitigation Section 5097.98. If the remains 5. If impacts to an archaeological site(s) Measure MM CR-5). are determined to be of Native cannot be feasibly avoided, a Phase II American descent, the coroner One historic landmark (High Evaluation Excavation and/or Phase III has 24 hours to notify the NAHC, Street Pepper Trees) is located Data Recovery Excavation and/or a who would then contact the most within the APE, and pipeline monitoring program shall be likely descendent of the installation may result in completed. The evaluation shall deceased Native American, who significant impacts associated include a determination of eligibility for would then serve as consultant with the loss or substantial listing on the National Register of on how to proceed with the alteration of this site. Historic Places. The effects of the remains. proposed project on these resources (if Structures over 50 years old MM CR-2 shall be fully any) shall be determined, and Native may be located within or implemented to reduce potential American representatives shall be adjacent to the alternative Phase I impacts to historic contacted. Mitigation measures shall pipeline alignments. Surveys resources to a less than be developed as appropriate for the would be required to identify significant level. significance of the resource and and evaluate these structures. magnitude of project impacts, and If project construction requires Phase II. submitted to the State Historic demolition, destruction, MM CR-5. The following Preservation Office for concurrence. relocation or alteration of the measures shall be fully Any other requirements for Section 106 resource or its immediate implemented to reduce potential processing shall also be completed at surroundings of any structure impacts to archeological that time. The site evaluation and data 50 years or older, this could resources to a less than recovery shall be completed in result in a significant impact. significant level: consultation with Reclamation, SHPO,
Native Americans and interested Conduct a Phase I parties. archaeological survey of those areas not previously surveyed 6. A Memorandum of Agreement shall be and re-survey those areas where drafted for mitigation of historic previous survey work does not properties. All requirements of Section meet current professionally 106 of the National Historic acceptable methodology Preservation Act shall be fully standards. implemented.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase II.
7. Plans for monitoring, treatment of Incorporate the findings and human remains, and unplanned recommendations of the Phase I discoveries shall be written in archaeological survey report into consultation with USBR, SHPO, Native the project conditions. Americans, interested parties, and Conduct a new archaeological Advisory Council, if they chose to and historical record search, if participate. These plans shall be surveys are not completed by incorporated into the Final EIR/EA. June 2002. 8. A professional archaeologist shall Avoid recorded prehistoric and provide a cultural resources orientation historic archaeological sites to construction workers associated with whenever feasible. This may excavation activities. The orientation require field checks and in some shall include a description of the type cases boundary testing to verify and nature of cultural resources that the avoidance of impacts. may be encountered during construction and steps to be taken if A Memorandum of Agreement such a find is unearthed. shall be drafted for mitigation of historic properties. All 9. In the event that intact archaeological requirements of Section 106 of deposits are exposed during project the National Historic construction, all earth disturbing work Preservation Act shall be fully shall be terminated within the vicinity of implemented. the find. In compliance with Plans developed as part of measure 7 above, Plans for monitoring, treatment the find shall be evaluated by a of human remains, and professional archaeologist in unplanned discoveries shall be consultation with affected Native written in consultation with American groups and SHPO, and USBR, SHPO, Native mitigated as warranted. After the find Americans, interested parties, has been appropriately mitigated, work and Advisory Council, if they in the area may resume. chose to participate. These plans shall be incorporated into
the Final EIR/EA.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II. Phase II.
10. If human remains are unearthed, State If impacts to an archaeological Health and Safety Code Section site(s) cannot be feasibly 7050.5 requires that no further avoided, a Phase II Evaluation disturbance shall occur until the County Excavation and/or Phase III Data Coroner has made the necessary Recovery Excavation and/or a findings as to origin and disposition monitoring program shall be pursuant to Public Resources Code completed. The evaluation shall Section 5097.98. If the remains are include a determination of determined to be of Native American eligibility for listing on the descent, the coroner has 24 hours to National Register of Historic notify the NAHC. The NAHC would Places. The effects of the then contact the most likely descendent proposed project on these of the deceased Native American, who resources (if any) shall be would then serve as consultant on how determined, and Native to proceed with the remains. American representatives shall be contacted. Mitigation MM CR-2 shall be fully implemented to measures shall be developed as reduce potential Phase II impacts to historic appropriate for the significance resources to a less than significant level. of the resource and magnitude of project impacts, and submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office for concurrence. Any other requirements for Section 106 processing shall also be completed at that time. The site evaluation and data recovery shall be completed in consultation with Reclamation, SHPO, Native Americans and interested parties.
A professional archaeologist shall provide a cultural resources orientation to construction workers associated with excavation activities. The orientation shall include a description of the type and nature of cultural resources that may be encountered during construction and steps to be taken if such a find is unearthed.
Table 2-2. Continued
PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES IMPACTS MITIGATION MEASURES 5.11 CULTURAL RESOURCES (Continued)
Phase II.
In the event that intact archaeological deposits are exposed during project construction, all earth disturbing work shall be terminated within the vicinity of the find. In compliance with Plans developed as part of measure 7 above, the find shall be evaluated by a professional archaeologist in consultation with affected Native American groups and SHPO, and mitigated as warranted. After the find has been appropriately mitigated, work in the area may resume.
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 NAHC, who would then contact the most likely descendent of the deceased Native American, who would then serve as consultant on how to proceed with the remains.
MM CR-2 shall be fully implemented to reduce potential impacts to historic resources to a less than significant level.
Table 2-3. Comparison of the Alternatives Land Water Biological Transport- Risk of Cultural Pipeline Segment Geology Air Quality Agriculture Noise Aesthetics Use Resources Resources ation Upset Resources Proposed Action Phase I: F-G LS S LS S LS LS LS LS LS LS LS Phase I: G-H LS S LS S S LS LS LS LS LS S Phase I: Diversion LS LS LS S N LS LS LS LS LS LS Phase II: A-B LS LS LS S S LS LS LS LS LS S Phase II: B-C LS S LS S S LS SU LS LS S S Phase II: C-D LS S LS S S LS LS LS LS S S Phase II: D-E LS LS LS S S LS SU LS LS S S Phase II: E-F LS LS LS S S LS LS LS LS S S Alternative Pipeline Alignments Phase I: F-G Alt. A LS S LS S LS LS LS LS LS LS S Phase I: G-H Alt. A LS S LS S S+ LS LS LS LS LS S Phase I: Diversion A LS LS LS S S LS LS LS LS LS S Phase I: G-H Alt. B LS S LS S S+ LS LS LS LS LS S Phase I: Diversion B SU LS LS S S LS LS LS LS LS S Phase II: B-C Alt. A LS S LS S SU+ LS SU LS LS S S Phase II: B-C Alt. B LS S LS S SU LS SU+ LS LS S S Phase II: C-D Alt. A LS S LS S SU- LS LS+ LS LS S S+ Phase II: C-D Alt. B LS S LS S SU- LS LS+ LS LS S S Phase II: D-E Alt. A LS LS LS S SU LS SU+ LS LS S S Phase II: D-E Alt. B LS LS LS S SU LS+ SU+ LS LS S S- Phase II: D-E Alt. C LS LS LS S SU LS SU+ LS LS S S- Phase II: E-F Alt. A LS LS LS S SU LS LS LS LS S S Alternative Ocean Outfall Entire System SA SA LS S- S SA SA SA SA SA SA No Action Alternative N N N S+ S N N N N N N Codes: LS: Less than significant N: No impact SA: Same as the Proposed Action S: Significant, but mitigable SU: Significant after mitigation +: Greater than the Proposed Action -: Less than the Proposed Action Table 3.1 Anticipated Wastewater Contributions to the Project Pipeline System
50 Percent Scenario 100 Percent Scenario Input to Pipeline Flow to Flow to Source Future Flow Projection Flow to Stream Flow to Stream System Pipeline Pipeline (mgd) (mgd) (mgd) (mgd) Simi Valley Water Brine Ultimate effluent flow of 14.5 mgd 1.45 13.05 2.9 11.6 Quality Control Plant Moorpark Wastewater Treated wastewater Ultimate effluent flow of 3 mgd 3.0 0.0 3.0 0.0 Treatment Plant Camarillo Sanitary District Water Brine Year 2020 effluent flow of 6.75 mgd 0.68 6.08 1.35 5.4 Reclamation Plant Camrosa Water Treated wastewater Ultimate effluent flow of 3 mgd 3.0 0.0 3.0 0.0 Reclamation Facility Simi Valley dewatering Brine Pump capacity (4.3 mgd groundwater) 0.86 0.0 0.86 0.0 wells Las Posas Basin wells Current well production (6.8 mgd Brine 1.36 0.0 1.36 0.0 (VCWWD Wells) groundwater) Santa Rosa Basin Brine Projected yield (1.3 mgd groundwater) 0.26 0.0 0.26 0.0 TOTAL 10.61 19.13 12.73 17.0 Assumed Agricultural & Brine & treated 50 percent of estimated pipeline flows NA 6.37 Industrial Flows wastewater (12.73 mgd) GRAND TOTAL NA 19.1
NA: Not applicable, the 50 percent scenario was not used to assess impacts of ocean discharge
Table 5.4-5. Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for General Water Quality Constituents
Arroyo Arroyo Arroyo Simi Arroyo Simi Arroyo Las Conejo South Conejo Creek Conejo Creek Calleguas Conejo Constituent upstream of downstream Posas at Hitch Fork upstream of downstream Creek at Mugu Lagoon downstream SVWQCP of SVWQCP Blvd. upstream CSD of CSD Highway 1 HCTP HCTP Chloride Average water quality 140 140 150 170 140 140 150 n/a n/a from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing 164 137 146 165 132 145 157 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 182 66 88 165 132 145 81 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L)
Lowest applicable (1) (1) (1) (1) (1) (1) (1) 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 n/a n/a criteria (mg/L) TDS Average water quality 1727 1171 1198 1188 820 811 850 n/a n/a from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing 1895 1172 1294 1529 832 976 995 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 2051 942 1125 1529 832 984 771 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable 850 850 850 850 850 850 850 n/a n/a criteria (mg/L) Sulfate Average water quality 791 485 462 397 245 227 249 n/a n/a from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing 775 392 422 412 244 287 278 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 334 203 259 412 244 283 216 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable 250 250 250 250 250 250 250 n/a n/a criteria (mg/L) Table 5.4-5. Continued
Arroyo Arroyo Arroyo Simi Arroyo Simi Arroyo Las Conejo South Conejo Creek Conejo Creek Calleguas Conejo Constituent upstream of downstream Posas at Hitch Fork upstream of downstream Creek at Mugu Lagoon downstream SVWQCP of SVWQCP Blvd. upstream CSD of CSD Highway 1 HCTP HCTP Boron Average water quality 0.88 0.70 0.80 0.18 0.37 0.35 0.37 n/a n/a from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing 0.43 0.51 0.52 0.21 0.41 0.44 0.48 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 0.20 0.39 0.42 0.21 0.41 0.46 0.43 n/a n/a water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 n/a n/a criteria (mg/L) Ammonia Average water quality 0.3 10.6 3.9 0.2 11.0 8.3 5.0 0.2 0.3 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing 0.10 12.0 9.9 0.11 14.5 9.95 4.6 0.027 0.040 water quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 0.10 1.2 1.0 0.08 14.5 10.84 3.0 0.010 0.028 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable 1.8 2.7 2.7 1.7 3.1 3.3 3.5 2.2 2.7 criteria (mg/L) Nitrate Average water quality 4.4 3.0 12.9 1.4 1.2 4.8 9.6 20.4 18.1 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing 2.2 2.9 4.5 3.1 1.9 2.8 17.7 15.0 15.4 water quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 1.0 0.5 2.5 3.1 1.9 2.6 3.4 15.0 15.5 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 criteria (mg/L) (1) The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board is considering a lower objective for these reaches in conjunction with the development of a chloride TMDL for the watershed. The objective could be as low as 110 mg/L.
Table 5.4-6. Modeled Surface Water Quality Impacts for Metals
Arroyo Conejo Arroyo Simi Arroyo Simi Arroyo Las Arroyo Conejo Conejo Creek Conejo Creek Calleguas South Fork Constituent upstream of downstream of Posas at Hitch downstream upstream of downstream of Creek at Mugu Lagoon upstream SVWQCP SVWQCP Blvd. HCTP CSD CSD Highway 1 HCTP Arsenic Average water quality 1.70 3.43 2.98 2.65 2.75 3.50 3.53 1.78 2.83 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 3.71 2.21 2.56 4.21 2.81 3.18 3.54 3.78 4.16 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 4.66 2.07 2.54 4.21 2.81 3.24 2.99 3.78 4.14 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 36 36 (mg/L) Cadmium Average water quality 0.36 0.26 0.38 0.24 0.14 0.27 0.19 0.50 0.41 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 0.30 0.16 0.19 0.29 0.29 0.32 0.21 0.31 0.34 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 0.33 0.14 0.18 0.29 0.29 0.33 0.18 0.29 0.32 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 6.22 4.11 5.13 6.22 5.59 5.88 5.38 9.30 9.30 (mg/L) Chromium Average water quality 1.90 1.42 2.07 1.37 1.58 1.56 1.72 3.03 13.20 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 2.26 1.42 1.57 2.71 1.67 1.88 1.69 2.03 2.18 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 1.77 1.01 1.25 2.71 1.67 1.89 1.36 2.02 2.17 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 11.0 11.0 11.0 11.0 11.0 11.0 11.0 50.0 50.0 (mg/L) Table 5.4-6. Continued
Arroyo Conejo Arroyo Simi Arroyo Simi Arroyo Las Arroyo Conejo Conejo Creek Conejo Creek Calleguas South Fork Constituent upstream of downstream of Posas at Hitch downstream upstream of downstream of Creek at Mugu Lagoon upstream SVWQCP SVWQCP Blvd. HCTP CSD CSD Highway 1 HCTP Copper Average water quality 5.05 8.75 3.48 2.33 2.55 2.45 3.38 7.95 4.33 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 6.53 4.54 4.93 3.50 2.62 3.08 6.14 5.16 5.49 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 5.76 3.74 4.34 3.50 2.62 3.10 5.53 5.22 5.53 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 29.3 18.7 23.7 29.3 26.1 27.5 25.0 3.1 3.1 (mg/L) Lead Average water quality 0.32 2.26 0.72 0.37 0.49 0.43 0.72 1.25 0.60 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 0.92 0.62 0.68 0.94 0.64 0.67 0.73 0.59 0.66 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 1.33 0.61 0.69 0.94 0.64 0.66 0.59 0.59 0.66 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 10.9 5.59 8.01 10.9 9.20 9.98 8.63 8.10 8.10 (mg/L) Mercury
Average water quality 0.0014 0.0024 0.0029 0.0029 0.0028 0.0026 0.0042 0.0032 0.0019 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 0.0023 0.0037 0.0038 0.0026 0.0034 0.0036 0.0079 0.0017 0.0019 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 0.0032 0.0030 0.0031 0.0026 0.0034 0.0038 0.0061 0.0020 0.0022 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 (mg/L)
Table 5.4-6. Continued
Arroyo Conejo Arroyo Simi Arroyo Simi Arroyo Las Arroyo Conejo Conejo Creek Conejo Creek Calleguas South Fork Constituent upstream of downstream of Posas at Hitch downstream upstream of downstream of Creek at Mugu Lagoon upstream SVWQCP SVWQCP Blvd. HCTP CSD CSD Highway 1 HCTP Nickel Average water quality 10.0 7.98 8.70 6.25 4.55 6.23 5.90 19.8 11.1 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 18.0 8.12 8.93 7.99 6.00 6.91 5.95 10.7 11.5 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 9.11 4.45 5.84 7.99 6.00 7.00 4.73 10.03 10.85 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 168 116 149 168 150 162 109 8.2 8.2 (mg/L) Selenium Average water quality 1.58 0.90 0.98 1.30 0.40 0.55 0.40 0.52 0.54 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 1.32 0.78 0.83 1.38 0.65 0.74 0.59 0.55 0.68 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 1.84 0.78 0.85 1.38 0.65 0.76 0.52 0.54 0.67 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 71 71 (mg/L) Zinc
Average water quality 7.75 11.4 10.8 5.53 20.0 15.0 18.8 11.2 9.33 from CCCS (mg/L) Modeled existing water 7.87 12.4 12.6 4.78 20.0 20.4 36.1 8.66 9.18 quality (mg/L) Modeled post-project 2.98 8.11 8.80 4.78 20.0 21.8 28.1 10.1 10.5 water quality (mg/L) Lowest applicable criteria 382 264 339 382 341 369 247 81 81 (mg/L) NOTE: Metals criteria are based on the hardness in surface waters after the project is implemented. The lower hardness results in a lower objective for the metal and a more conservative approach to reviewing the water quality.