January - February 2021 Planning for Richardson's : recreation on MMWD's watershed Regulating and Protecting an by Nona Dennis Irreplaceable Natural Resource

No one saw it coming! Within days of the first call in March to stay-in-place as a measure to control the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, people thronged to the beach, parks, and open spaces. At first, land managers responded by limiting entry to bikes and close-to-home walkers. As confinement wore on, they realized that being outdoors was the universal “cure” for a restless public, and they doubled their efforts to manage the crowds. Marin Municipal Water District (MMWD, or District) was no exception. By mid-December 2020, watershed lands were still experiencing record numbers of iStock Eelgrass beds are a vital component of Richardson's Bay ecosystems. visitors who, for nine months, had been escaping from the confinement of home to the relative safety of the outdoors. by Terri Thomas Recreation as a whole, always welcomed “Richardson Bay is a priceless natural pebble beaches, rocky shorelines, eelgrass on the watershed, was straining District resource which affects those who live and and shellfish beds, seal haul-outs, herring resources, creating competition among work around it, and on it, and also those spawning grounds, and resting and feeding watershed land uses, ecological and who pass through it...Good water quality for tens of thousands of migrating cultural resources, and the District’s is absolutely essential for maintaining and overwintering waterbirds, including primary mission of supplying high quality Richardson’s Bay as important many species of diving ducks. Designated water and protecting the watershed’s , and for maximum public enjoyment,” as an Important Area by Audubon rich natural resources. Furthermore, it stated former Marin County Supervisor and , it includes a 900-acre protected was compounding existing visitor safety State Senator Peter Behr as President of MCL area, the Richardson Bay Audubon Sanctuary, concerns. in 1984. in its northeastern reach. The Sanctuary MMWD’s legacy of is seasonally closed to boats to protect Irreplaceable resource wintering waterfowl. public access Richardson’s Bay is a 3,000-acre Richardson’s Bay was once the top herring The history of MMWD’s founding ecologically-rich, shallow inlet of San on the west coast of North America, helps to explain the current recreational Francisco Bay. It hosts a mosaic of habitats spawn in its sheltered waters including open water, marshes, sandy Continued on page 2 Continued on page 4

In This Issue—

Corte Madera tidal marsh restoration— page 6 Transit Center project- page 7 Project Update: San Geronimo Valley-page 8 Nature Note: Eelgrass - page 11 MCL Director Profiles— page 11 New Mission, Vision, Guiding Principles- page 12

PAGE 1 January - February 2021 A Message from the President - MCL updates its Mission, Vision, and Guiding Principles

Dear Members and Friends, Last month Marin clearly states what we want: “…an of environmental work in many areas creates Conservation League’s Board ecologically diverse and resilient exciting possibilities to help stakeholders of Directors unanimously natural environment that a adopt best-practices and develop innovative approved MCL’s 2021-23 thriving, engaged community policies--that can help Marin and potentially Strategic Plan, a roadmap values and cares for”. can be spread elsewhere and so have impacts that will help us to remain As for MCL’s Guiding Principles, regionally and beyond. a relevant and effective we revised four Principles-- “Work for environmental justice, equity, advocate for Marin’s support nature first, act based on diversity and inclusion” in all of our environment. Personally, I’m science, use diverse approaches for environmental advocacy work means that relieved (it was a lot of work!) and mobilizing action, and tirelessly advocate we will listen, learn, and figure out how we excited by the many planned changes and for the environment--that capture our can best add value by working with partners the unplanned changes that will arise from past and current approach to thoughtfully in underserved communities, whose “learning by doing” as we implement the developing, vetting and advocating for residents are disproportionately people of Plan. policies that benefit Marin’s environment. color. Here are some highlights from our new The two new Principles are really Over time, we aim to improve our work Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles important to me: and how we communicate with you, the statements, listed on page 12. They precede “Integrate climate change understanding public, and decision-makers about that everything else in the Plan. into our work”. Yes, MCL’s Climate Action work--in order to be better and more To our Mission statement “Preserve, Working Group addresses climate change effective advocates for the environment on protect and enhance the natural assets mitigation and impacts--but so do our your behalf. And we’ll need your help: we of Marin”, we added “in a changing other main Issue Committees: Fire and hope you will check out our Issue Committee environment”, reflecting the growing impact Environment; Parks and Open Space; meetings and participate in new volunteer of climate change on our environment and of Land Use, Transportation and Water; and opportunities going forward! other negative environmental changes, such Agricultural Land Use. Integrating policy as spreading new pathogens and non-native expertise on climate change with policy invasive species. Our (first!) Vision statement expertise deeply rooted in MCL’s long history Robert Miller, President

Planning for recreation on watershed from page 1

“dilemma.” By the early years of the organized within months of the charter. Cycling escalated sharply in the 1980s as 20th century, much of Mt. Tamalpais was Their paramount interest was captured in mountain bike technology evolved, and in the hands of some 20 private water a headline in a 1915 issue of California- conflicts began to appear. Slow-moving companies. To the dismay of hikers who Out-of-Doors: “A Great Opportunity and visitors were suddenly faced with riders on flocked to the mountain, these privately- a Duty: A Water Supply and a Public two wheels reaching speeds three-to five owned lands were off-limits, particularly Park in Marin.” Thus, TCC members were times their own pace. in the Lagunitas Creek watershed. That enthusiastic supporters of the bond When then-Chief Ranger Bill Hogan all changed when, in 1912 and 1915, measure and all subsequent expansions retired in 2016 after 38 years as a ranger Marin citizens created and then funded of the new water district. They wanted to with the District, he estimated, based on the first municipal utility chartered in ensure that the watershed would remain visitor surveys in 1974 and 2013, bike use California. More than 10,300 acres came open to the public. And it did. had grown from about two percent of into the public domain. That would grow For many years, hiking, running, and all visitors to 30 percent. Equestrian use over ensuing years to the 18,500 acres horseback riding predominated. The mix had decreased, and hiking and running now managed by the District on Mt. of users was not without controversy. continued to be the dominant mode of Tam. (Nicasio and Soula Jule Reservoirs MCL voiced its concerns decades ago over recreation. In total numbers, annual visitors , constructed in 1961 and 1976, dangerous and unregulated horseback had roughly doubled from 750,000 annual respectively, brought the total a acreage riding. Hikers and runners cut corners visitors to over 1,600,000, now estimated to to 21,250.) It was not a coincidence and created social trails. A few “clunker” be over 2,000,000. “Outdoor recreation is that the Tamalpais Conservation Club, bicycles began appearing in the 1970s. representing a large group of hikers, was Continued on page 3

PAGE 2 January - February 2021

Planning for recreation on watershed from page 2 no longer a ‘nice to have’; it is now a ‘must reduced stamina have,’” he said. Leaders across the country that come with recognized the undeniable economic, social age, had been and health benefits of outdoor recreation. lobbying the With it came evident impacts to vegetation, District Board roads, and trails. to legalize the This already-considerable growth has E-bikes that they been amplified by Covid-19. A November already ride on the report from MMWD staff cited high levels watershed. They of use at major entry points and along were not alone popular trails (300 visitors per hour were in the growing reported recently on the Cataract Trail). The appearance of report cited parking limitations, trash and E-bikes on District sanitation issues, and increasing requests lands, however. for medical aid. A seasonal entrance The Board agreed attendant at Sky Oaks reported the last that the matter weekend of November as the busiest in warranted study. her term; 800 cars entered. Enforcement of After a year Marin County Parks personal safety measures against Covid-19 of robust Lake Lagunitas (foreground) and Bon Tempe Lake areas have has added to ranger responsibilities. public review, experienced especially high recreation levels since the onset of Staff began to take short-term actions, including study the Covid pandemic. such as augmenting and servicing sanitation by a Community safe access to recreational opportunities facilities, adding hand sanitizer at parking Advisory Committee and further outreach, for diverse visitors, address unauthorized lots and sanitation stations, upgrading staff eventually recommended to the Board uses, ensure adequate capacity to maintain trash cans with wildlife proof receptacles in December 2020 that they approve a three- infrastructure and historical landmarks, and monitoring trash in high use areas, and year Special Use Permit for E-bikes as an and reach out into the cultures of selling annual passes online. In addition to opportunity to gather data on their impact visitors and surrounding communities to recent pandemic precautionary signs, “slow on the environment, watershed facilities, integrate natural resource values with safe zone” signs and new signs to promote safe and other recreational visitors. By that recreational behaviors. The directors agreed behaviors and trail etiquette were being time, the pandemic had reached alarming to move forward with such a plan. designed and installed. “Ambassadors” were levels and showed no signs of abating. The assigned to busy locations to assist visitors. continuing growth in recreation on Mt. MMWD has had numerous plans in Plans to increase ranger presence by adding Tam, prompted by the pandemic, pointed place for managing vegetation and other two rangers were being budgeted. to the urgent need for a comprehensive resources on the watershed since the first Watershed Recreation Plan that would go “Environmental Planning Study” for the E-bikes or not? well beyond the narrow focus on E-bikes. watershed was developed in 1973. Urged The Directors demurred on approving the by MCL, that study paved the way for More than a year before the onset of the E-bike proposal, and directed further study a comprehensive understanding of Mt. pandemic, the Board had begun to focus on to the Watershed Committee. Tamalpais’ conditions and myriad resources. a single issue: should electric bikes (E-bikes) Twenty years later, a “Vegetation and Fire be permitted on the 92 miles of fire and Longer-term action: Management Plan” was prepared and guided emergency roads that traverse watershed a recreation plan the District for more than twenty years until lands? Under existing District Code, E-bikes it was replaced by the “Biodivesity, Fire and are considered “motorized vehicles” and At a board retreat in late September, Fuels Integrated Plan” (BFFIP) in 2019, after therefore prohibited on these roads. Over District staff outlined a longer-term years of preparation. The “Mt. Tamalpais the past few years, a relatively small cohort strategy to deal with recreational demand: Road and Trail Management Plan” (2005) of cyclists, many of them veterans of early a plan for recreation that would protect the inventoried all roads and trails on District years of mountain biking on Mt. Tamalpais watershed’s biodiversity, water quality and lands, identified numerous best practices and now experiencing the afflictions and environment, and at the same time sustain Continued on page 9

PAGE 3 January - February 2021

Richardson's Bay from page 1 on extensive eelgrass beds [see Nature County, Belvedere and Tiburon. In 1984, in RBSAP is that no permanent residential Note: The extraordinary ecology of eelgrass, response to surmounting negative impacts, vessels are allowed in Richardson’s Bay. The pg 10]. It is home to 55 species of fish. The representatives of the five jurisdictions RBSAP limits vessel stays to only 72 hours. eelgrass beds provide important habitat for and the Bay Conservation The removal of residential anchored vessels invertebrates, , marine mammals and and Development Commission (BCDC) has been a challenge. Between 1985 and other fish-eating species. Unfortunately, created the Richardson Bay Special Area 2019 the number kept growing. these beds have been negatively impacted Plan (RBSAP) to provide uniform policies In response to documented damage by by boats and associated anchoring and standards to be used to manage the anchors, the RBRA proposed that a mooring equipment for many years. future use and protection of the Bay. field be established in the anchorage outside Recommendations in the plan are included of the eelgrass habitat. The mooring would Richardson Bay Special Area for enforcement of the provisions of the fix a boat or other floating vessel to the Plan and the Public Trust Doctrine plan, designation of Richardson Bay as a bottom of the Bay in one location, by use of No Discharge Area, designations for local cable or chains. Unlike anchors, this type of Every year, Richardson’s Bay ecosystems are anchorages and moorages, and marsh mooring remains attached to the bottom damaged by residential vessels and other restoration and enhancement programs. in one place and would not drag on the floating structures. Associated anchors and When MCL commented on the RBSAP in bottom of the bay. the dragging scope of the anchor chains 1984, it concluded, “This is a very reasonable can be highly damaging to eelgrass beds plan. We urge that its findings, policies and In addition to protections in the RBSAP, and bottom lands. Other threats include maps be adopted.” Richardson’s Bay is protected by the Public leakage or dumping of petroleum, sewage, In 1985, the Richardson Bay Regional Trust Doctrine, a principle of common law trash and debris. Sunken boats present Agency (RBRA) was established to that is deeply rooted in US history and hazards; and shade is now considered by implement the RBSAP. The RBRA consisted culture and has been legally validated the National Marine Service and of the five jurisdictions, each of which were through the Supreme Court. Its basic California Fish and Wildlife as a negative required to contribute a percentage of the premise is that public trust lands and waters factor to marine vegetation and wildlife funds needed to implement their share of are to be managed for the public good and habitat. the plan. Ordinances were adopted by each not for individual purposes. In 2009, the California State Lands Commission issued Richardson’s Bay is surrounded by five jurisdiction to codify the provisions and a statement for Richardson Bay, “It is jurisdictions: Sausalito, Mill Valley, Marin ensure implementation. One policy in the important to stress, as discussions regarding the development of mooring fields proceed, that it is the position of the Commission staff, based on advice from the Attorney General’s office that residential use of the State’s tidelands and submerged lands, whether granted or ungranted, including residential live-aboard use, is not a use consistent with the Public Trust Doctrine, as it is for a purely private purpose that is unrelated to, not dependent upon, and does nothing to stimulate or promote the purposes for which tidelands are uniquely suited.”

Recent changes in management

In June 2017, frustrated that enforcement Patrick and Julie Belanger, The 111th Group of the provisions of RBSAP were not being Anchor damage viewed like "crop circles" around boats where eelgrass is plowed up. Continued on page 5

PAGE 4 January - February 2021

Richardson's Bay from page 4 enforced by the agency, Sausalito left the 2020 there were 144 boats. dependent on it. It will identify particular RBRA. Sausalito had been required to pay In October 2020, the BCDC Enforcement zones where activities can occur. RBRA has 35% of the RBRA operating costs and was Committee decided to enter into transition convened stakeholder listening sessions. experiencing most of the impacts from agreements with both Sausalito and Sausalito also has special programs. The the anchor-out vessels. Many residents RBRA identifying the need for a five-year Legacy Vessels program allows long-term of these vessels go ashore in Sausalito to sunset clause for eliminating permanent mariners on the bay to stay in their vessels, resupply or use city services. The Sausalito residential anchorage. The Enforcement anchored in Sausalito waters for the rest of Police Chief was needed to actively manage Committee moved immediately into their lives. There are six boats in this program the Sausalito portion of the anchorage. This agreement with Sausalito. BCDC is and their owners range in age from 68 to 80 duplication of enforcement costs was not engaging with RBRA and each of their years old. Sausalito also has a Safe Harbor sustainable. Leaving the RBRA gave rise to local member cities in their transition program, which finds alternative housing Sausalito more successfully implementing plan. Annual goals will be identified to for the residents of the boats anchored. their jurisdictional responsibilities under ensure regular reduction of vessels in RBRA Social services include portable showers, the RBSAP. jurisdictional waters to meet the goal of grab-and-go food, and Covid-19 testing. In November 2019, the RBRA published the 5-year timeframe. Additional activities Sausalito has been working with Marin the Ecologically Based Mooring and will be included in all agreements that County Health and Human Services, the Planning Feasibility Study completed by reduce habitat damage, limit new vessels Ritter Center, Sausalito Marina Operators Merkel and Associates (Merkel Study). to 72-hour mooring, encourage short and and the Sausalito Chamber of Commerce to The study identified areas of Richardson’s long-term housing solutions, and require transition the anchor-out community out Bay that did not have eelgrass beds subtidal habitat restoration. Senator Mike of homelessness, provide job opportunities and therefore could be identified as McGuire is assisting by discussing ways to and identify alternative slips and/or land potential mooring fields. In response to support permanent housing. housing. Sausalito has eight slips available the Merkel Study, Point Blue, funded by for transition and has received $171,000 Marin Audubon Society, conducted a bird RBRA and Sausalito transition from California Emergency Solutions and survey of the areas that the Merkel Study plans and programs Housing to help the effort. recommended. Completed in July 2020, Sausalito is also taking steps to protect Point Blue recommended a mooring field Seventeen of the 144 boats in RBRA’s the Dunphy Park eelgrass colony by not be allowed in the areas recommended boundaries have completed registration designating it as Open Water and thereby in the Merkel Study due to their findings in RBRA’s Safe and Seaworthy Program. having no boats in the area. They are of total number of birds, total number of These boats may qualify to stay longer developing a plan for restoring eelgrass species and bird species richness per plot in than others on the anchorage if they bring damage, and addressing issues that create those areas. their boats up to a safe condition. They are ongoing eelgrass impacts and will include After a 2019 audit criticized BCDC for not eligible for small funding grants. Marin the monitoring of projects for success. fulfilling its agency’s responsibilities and County social workers provide services cited Richardson Bay as an example, there once a month to assist the anchor-out MCL’s support was a new emphasis to enforce existing community. However, over the last few plans within including months of the pandemic, enforcement has Last October MCL's Board of Directors the RBSAP. BCDC began conducting had to wane. During this time 24 new boats adopted a position that reinforced its 1984 enforcement meetings and identified ways came into anchorage. support of the RBSAP and recommended to move the resident vessels out of the bay RBRA is beginning a process of creating that RBRA and Sausalito be given five while working with the inhabitants to find an Eelgrass Protection and Management years to implement the provisions of the other housing or moorings. Plan which will identify desired uses RBSAP, in support of BCDC’s Enforcement Since February 2019 when there were and known threats such as impacts by Committee’s timeframe. MCL continues to 239 boats anchored, there has been anchors, water quality issues and climate track the transition plans, the enforcement improvement. By August 2020, 202 boats change to the eelgrass areas within RBRA actions of BCDC, and the protection of were remaining -- the reduction due jurisdictional waters. The plan will discuss Richardson Bay. almost entirely to the removal of derelict how to accommodate uses and at the vessels that had no inhabitants. By October same time protect eelgrass and the animals

PAGE 5 January - February 2021 Project Status Updates

Golden Gate Transportation District tidal marsh restoration nears completion

In December, the Bridge, Highway and Transportation District (GGBHTD) breached the berm at the northern edge of its 72-acre property in Corte Madera to restore tides to a new four-acre site. The property was once part of the large complex of tidal marshes and that fringed San Francisco Bay. It is separated by berms on its north, south, and bay sides from the Corte Madera Ecological Reserve (Reserve) and bordered by the SMART right-of-way to the west. The restoration site is located northeast of the Village Shopping Center in Corte Madera. It is one more piece in the restoration of about 200 acres of Corte Madera’s former tidelands that were diked off from the Bay 70 years ago. In 1976, Highway & Transportation District 125 acres were restored as mitigation for construction of the Larkspur Ferry Terminal, The four acre restoration site is one more piece in the restoration of about 200 acres of leaving the 72-acre property for future Corte Madera's former tidelands that were diked off from the Bay 70 years ago. restoration.

Construction on the site began in October The restoration fulfills two GGBHTD and southern perimeter berms on the 2020 and is projected to be completed in commitments: one, to meet a 1988 Army GGBHTD property. Nor does it alter GGBHTD’s January to avoid disturbing adjacent tidal Corps of Engineer’s condition of permit access easement on the SMART right-of-way, marshlands during wildlife breeding season. that authorized the dredging and disposal which is used informally as a trail by the The project will provide additional tidal marsh of 90,000 cubic yards of dredge public. However, an informal trail along the habitat to support both the federally listed collected during maintenance of the Larkspur northwestern and northern outer perimeters Ridgway’s rail and the salt marsh harvest Ferry Terminal; and two, to satisfy a 1996 and within the project site will be replaced mouse, whose habitats include mudflats, low agreement with local environmental groups by a new berm trail along the eastern and marsh to high marsh, a transition zone with to mitigate for increased marsh erosion when southern edges of the restored marsh, vegetative refugia and adjacent protected ferry operations were modified to add a high- connecting with the rest of the trail loop. Of vegetated uplands. A “wildlife-friendly” speed ferry to its service. note, berms around the GGBHTD property fence is planned for both sides of the trail Breaching the northern berm connects were built in the 1970s during construction around the restored tidal marsh to minimize of the Larkspur Ferry Terminal to contain disturbance by pedestrians and dogs. a newly excavated slough on the site to an adjacent tidally influenced drainage dredged , and were not designed to channel. The restoration site is being graded provide flood protection. to elevations suitable for tidal inundation. After construction, the restored tidal This has involved spreading excavated fill, marsh and seasonal wetland areas will be relocating some portions of GGBHTD’s monitored for up to five years to evaluate perimeter berm, and moving some seasonal progress in achieving performance standards wetland habitat. In time, native marsh for vegetative cover and other indicators vegetation will naturally re-establish. of success. At that time, the District Nonnative vegetation on the site, including intends to deed the restoration site to the some nonnative trees, were removed. In California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Becky Matsubara, flickr creative commons all, approximately 14 acres of the GGBHTD to be managed as part of the Reserve, or property will support the restoration. to another suitable land trust for long-term The tidal marsh restoration will provide The project plan does not change or management. additional tidal marsh habitat for remove Corte Madera’s formal easement for Ridgway's rail, pictured above, and the the shoreline public trail along the eastern .

PAGE 6 January - February 2021 Project Status Updates

San Rafael Transit Center Replacement Project planning continues

Golden Gate Bridge Highway and reach other bus bays. Three bus bays would 4th and between Tamalpais and Hetherton Transportation District (GGBHTD) is be located on Hetherton and so right turns extending onto property west of Tamalpais. progressing its plans for the San Rafael from Hetherton onto 4th Street would be Tamalpais would be redesigned for bus, Transit Center Replacement Project prohibited to protect safety. Two Victorian shuttle and bike use-only with a dedicated (SRTCRP). The project includes three phases: houses on 5th that are potentially historic bike facility and wider sidewalks. In both identification and analysis of Transit Center resources would need to be relocated. alternatives, seven bus bays would be relocation alternatives, environmental Under the Freeway Alternative – This located on both sides of Tamalpais Avenue. analysis and clearance (both relocation facility would be located partially under An advantage of these alternatives is that and environmental analysis are currently the freeway between Hetherton and Irwin all transit activity would be located on one underway), and preliminary design and Streets and would require a lease for contiguous block and so would decrease engineering. Following completion of these that portion on Caltrans property. There circulation time. phases, there will be final design and, one to would be little opportunity for amenities All alternatives will require acquisitions. two years later, construction. A completion or permanent structures like bus shelters The project cost estimates for the 4th date is uncertain but currently the new under the freeway and Caltrans could evict Street Gateway and one of the Whistlestop Transit Center opening is anticipated four bus use should it need to conduct repairs Block alternatives range between $40 to seven years from now. there. Bus bays would be located between and $55 million. The cost estimate for the Four current Transit Center site and 5th Avenue and extending onto the block Whistlestop Block alternative in which configuration alternatives have been south of 4th Street. Transfers to the SMART the Whistlestop building would either be identified. Here is a descriptive summary of station and access to downtown would relocated or reconstructed is $40 to $60 those footprints: have to cross Hetherton, and transfer to million. The Under the Freeway alternative 4th Street Gateway Alternative – The other bus bays would require crossing 4th, is estimated between $60 and $85 million. facility would be located on two blocks raising safety concerns. This alternative GGBHTD will be putting together a funding between 3rd Street and 5th Avenue and would require bridging over the Erwin package that includes $30 million of between Tamalpais Avenue and Hetherton. Creek channel in three locations and would allocated Regional Measure 3 funding The Whistlestop building would not be displace four operational businesses and 72 that has not yet been released; there will included. The bus bays between 3rd and 5th Park & Ride parking spaces which would be proceeds from the sale of the current would be adjacent to the SMART Station, need to be replaced elsewhere. transit center site; GGBHTD is working however passengers transferring buses Two Whistlestop Block Alternatives with the Federal Transit Administration would need to use 4th Street crosswalks to – These are similar alternatives -- one that and anticipates federal funds; and they will integrates transit uses be working with their partner agencies to with the Whistlestop figure out how to fill a remaining gap in building and another in funding the entire project. which the Whistlestop Though it remains uncertain as to just building would how well transit ridership will rebound either be relocated post-pandemic in the months and years or reconstructed and to come, it is certain that what is planned in which Tamalpais and built today will set the stage for the Avenue would then future. The success of public transit is key be relocated to the to two societal objectives – increasing Whistlestop site equity and decreasing greenhouse aligning it more gas emissions (GHGs). Effective transit closely with Tamalpais and its infrastructure must meet the Avenue to the north. needs of those who don’t have access Both alternatives to private mobility and who depend on

Golden Gate Bridge Highway & Transportation District are located between quality transit (to employment, school, 3rd and 4th Streets shopping, healthcare appointments) in Footprints for alternative locations for the San Rafael Transit utilizing both sides of Center. Continued on page 9

PAGE 7 January - February 2021

Project Status Updates

A Vision Framework for the Trust for Public Land's property in San Geronimo Valley

The Trust for Public Land (TPL) is progressing on both its short-term planning and long-range vision for their 157-acre by Nona Dennis property in San Geronimo Valley. The property is surrounded by Marin County open space preserves and lies within the Lagunitas Creek Watershed with Larsen Creek running through the northern part of the property and San Geronimo Creek running through it to the south. A year and a half of community engagement meetings and workshops for developing shared goals, together with technical analysis of the site, has culminated in a Vision Framework for the property’s future. The comprehensive Framework document is due to be posted on the Reimagine San Geronimo website later this month. According to TPL’s December presentation of key elements of the Framework, conservation priorities include creek and floodplain restoration, daylighting and restoring Larsen Creek, improved habitat for salmonids and other aquatic species, restoring wetland habitats for birds and Trust for Public Land other sensitive wildlife and conserving and restoring vegetated riparian, grassland and TPL's conservation priorities for the San Geronimo Meadow include creek and upland corridors for wildlife linkages and floodplain restoration; improved, more complex habitat for salmonids and other movement. There are nine ponds on the site aquatic species; riparian corridor conservation for habitat movement; restoration – some may be restored, others preserved. and enhancement of wetland habitats. Over the summer Trout Unlimited assembled a technical advisory group reserved primarily for restoration, public Seashore. The site became the control to help refine the preliminary plan for open space, and conservation-compatible center with a field of tents and basic creek and floodplain restoration. Stream passive recreation, educational, and services for between 400 and 500 fire restoration is currently underway on San interpretive opportunities. The Clubhouse fighters and support staff, many of whom Geronimo Creek, and Trout Unlimited and parcel is where TPL envisions a broader traveled long distances to help fight the Environmental Science Associates are range of community and recreational uses. fire. Currently, the Marin County Fire leading additional restoration planning. It is also the most suitable location for a Department is using the clubhouse during According to TPL’s project manager, Erica new Marin County fire station, [located the pandemic to allow administrative staff Williams, “The restoration footprints close to the main road]. The circulation to spread out and socially distance while developed by Trout Unlimited and their (trails) may change from the current at work. After receiving a temporary use consultants and advisors will underpin alignment with proposed multi-use, permit in March, the department more the Vision Framework. ...[T]he Framework secondary and tertiary trails built into the recently entered into a formal agreement will integrate compatible public access, Framework.” to use the site for a fee. TPL has hired a fire passive recreation, and community ideas In August and September, the site expert to put together a comprehensive where possible and appropriate. Under hosted the National Park Service’s Incident fire fuel management plan and, as part the Framework, the San Geronimo and Command Post, set up to respond to the Larsen Meadows will be protected and Woodward fire in Point Reyes National Continued on page 9

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Project Status Updates

San Geronimo Valley, San Rafael Transit Center, Watershed recreation, from page 8 from page 7 from page 3 of their use of the clubhouse, the Fire order to thrive. Knowing that, GGBHTD to reduce erosion and sedimentation, and Department is helping to implement has sought local input from students at made recommendations about which roads key recommendations of that plan. The San Rafael High and English learners, at and trails to designate as official, and which property is being managed according to a Facebook Spanish-only meeting hosted ones to either reclassify or decommission fire-wise fuel management standards, by Canal Alliance, and through tabling and and restore. It continues to serve this with areas adjacent to structures receiving interaction at the current Transit Center to purpose. The BFFIP is the most current an increased level of weed and fuel capture input from current transit users in guide to managing vegetation. In 2016, the management. an effort to optimally meet their needs. One Tam partners initiated what will be a According to Williams, the clubhouse Furthermore, as there is no time left for series of reports measuring the health of parcel has also allowed community incremental steps toward sustainability. Mt. Tam. It identifies stressors like climate members and organizations, with Reducing GHGs and mitigating climate change, invasive species, and forest disease, a temporary use permit, to use the change has become paramount. In the and their impacts on key species indicators clubhouse and nearby property for House Select Committee’s recent report of the “health” of the mountain, but does nonprofit meetings, art installation “Solving the Climate Crisis”, California’s not include impacts of recreational growth projects, outdoor education programs, landmark goal to reduce GHGs to 40 on Mt. Tam as a cause of concern. and the like. The Nicasio Volunteer Fire percent below 1990 levels by 2030, None of these plans addresses the Department co-hosted a community Plan Bay Area 2050’s Transportation impacts of recreational use of Mt. Tam, per blood drive at the clubhouse in November Strategies, Marin’s Drawdown, and in se. Missing from MMWD’s information with the American Red Cross and the San local jurisdiction climate action plans, resources is a plan that defines what Geronimo Lions Club and there are plans success of public transit has become a sustainable recreation for the watershed to hold another blood drive in March. The key strategy. The new transit center must would look like – how to protect watershed Lions Club has also volunteered to help try to draw an increase of users to public biodiversity, water quality and environment with workdays on the property. A trio transportation and support complete while sustaining safe and inclusive access of San Anselmo high school students is trips. The new Transit Center alternatives to recreation – how to integrate recreation helping to map native and invasive species are incorporating networks with other values with protecting natural resources; and develop a management plan that will modes of public transit like sidewalks, bike how to educate or otherwise encourage include stewardship opportunities this lanes, and other forms of shared mobility, safe and resource-conscious behavior; or, spring. some more successful than others. when education alone is ineffective, how According to the TPL presentation, the The SRTCRP CEQA environmental review to effectively enforce regulations. property is returning to a natural state document will likely be released in mid to A longer term plan will define sustainable with managed natural land zones that late spring this year. It will analyze each recreation on the watershed, develop a blend open space, public access and fire of the four alternatives described above framework for monitoring and managing resilience. The property is currently open plus a “no build” alternative and will diverse recreational opportunities, assess to the public for passive recreation and select a preferred alternative as part of the capacity of infrastructure to support enjoyment of nature. Next steps will the process. MCL provided comments on recreation, recognizing that visitors include completing fundraising to cover the scope of the environmental issues have different goals, protect the well- acquisition and associated costs, and that should be addressed in the EIR. Many documented biodiversity and other transferring the property to a new owner, of those comments were included in the resources on Mt. Tam, and engage the larger ideally a public agency, in 2021 – 2022. SRTCRP’s February 2019 Environmental community in appreciating and stewarding Scoping Report’s summary of key issues. the irreplaceable assets that mountain’s Note: MCL worked with other watersheds afford. environmental and community groups to We encourage you to read our scoping MCL commends the directors’ decision defeat Ballot Measure D in March of last comments. MCL plans to comment on the to defer action on E-bikes, but also urges year. Measure D’s defeat cleared the path draft EIR when it’s released. We encourage them to move forward with developing for continued planning for conservation you to comment, too. a recreation plan BEFORE reconsidering priorities and public access. adding E-bikes to an already complex set of management issues. MCL looks forward to participating in that plan.

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Nature Note The extraordinary ecology of Eelgrass by Terri Thomas

Eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) is a type of “Submerged Aquatic Vegetation” and established colonies are known to be some of the most productive ecosystems worldwide. Eelgrass are true plants, not seaweeds or algae. They grow as seagrass meadows that have horizontal root systems and leafy shoots that extend upward into the water column. Colonies of eelgrass grow in the protected soft bottom bays and of the Northern Hemisphere, typically in shallow waters (0-6 feet), like those in Richardson’s Bay. Because they transform flat unconsolidated and into a highly structured forest-like density of leaves, eelgrass meadows create complex EUO Enrique Talledo, flickr creative commons habitats for the bay that have both unique The restoration of eelgrass has become a high priority worldwide. biological and physical traits. The eelgrass colonies in Richardson’s ecotourist event. It is the eelgrass beds that Eelgrass as habitat and food Bay provide a protective nursery for fish are the primary support system for most of and shellfish. Pacific herring lay their this ecologically-valuable wildlife fiesta. source for marine species eggs in eelgrass beds. Herring and their roe are two of the most important food Eelgrass improves water quality Eelgrass meadows provide important sources for birds and marine mammals in ecological functions and ecosystem services, the bay. The connection between eelgrass and prevents erosion of shorelines such as primary food production and and herring is so entwined that it is often habitat for commercially, recreationally, called the eelgrass-herring ecosystem — Because eelgrass is a rooted plant, it and ecologically important species. Because herring depend on eelgrass and marine also provides the vital ecological service of these meadows provide direct and indirect wildlife depends on the herring. Many trapping sediment that protects shorelines food for marine food chains, eelgrass is invertebrates thrive on eelgrass and from erosion and improves water quality. considered to be a “foundation” or habitat eelgrass provides habitat for birds such as Trapping suspended materials, taking up forming species as it creates a highly American Coot, Western and Clark’s Grebe, nutrients and other dissolved substances, structured, diverse environment for marine Scoter, Greater and Lesser Scaup, Ruddy and rooting into the unconsolidated soil life. Duck, and Bufflehead. Eelgrass is especially help prevent erosion. This ability to accrete important to the Black Brant, a bird species sediments is coupled with an ability to that requires it to survive. attenuate waves. Therefore, eelgrass is being looked at as a major player in During the annual herring spawning shoreline protection from sea level rise. runs, between December and early March, Richardson’s Bay comes alive with dramatic activity. Marine mammals, harbor seals, Eelgrass decline, and Californa sea lions roll and dive for the protection and restoration fish and hundreds, sometimes thousands, of birds circle, swoop and plunge into Eelgrass has declined worldwide, most the water following the herring through likely due to increased anthropogenic the eelgrass. Ducks and other water birds effects as well as climate-induced changes. Olivia Graham, SFSU feast on fish and roe at the surface. It is a Therefore, it has been given many specific Eelgrass in Richardson's Bay provide a truly wild scene, as exciting as any famous protective nursery for fish and their roe. Continued on page 11

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Eelgrass, from page 10 protections. It has special status under planting, monitoring, and evaluation. climatic conditions. As a result, additional the Clean Water Act and is considered an The restoration of eelgrass has become a monitoring and recurrent surveys have important element of Essential Fish Habitat high priority worldwide as its decline has become a priority. regulated under the Magnuson-Stevens become apparent. There are more efforts Recently, the and Ocean Science Fishery Conservation and Management Act. to improve upon conservation, restoration, Center in Tiburon received $1.2 million to Eelgrass has been designated as a Habitat and enhancement of the species. The conduct eelgrass restoration and research as Area of Particular Concern (HAPC) under California Coastal Conservancy has targeted part of a consent decree from San Francisco that Act. Finally, the National Oceanic eelgrass for major restoration with a goal Herring Association’s successful litigation and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) of 8,000 restored acres over the next 50 against PG&E. The project specifically fisheries policy recommends no net loss of years. Currently eelgrass covers 3,000 acres includes restoration of eelgrass beds that eelgrass habitat function in California. The or 1% of submerged lands. A predictive have been destroyed as a result of the illegal policy establishes protocols for mitigating model for eelgrass suggests that an even vessels anchored in Richardson’s Bay. adverse impacts on eelgrass and provides greater capacity for San Francisco Bay to guidelines for mapping, mitigation support eelgrass may exist under certain

MCL Director Profiles

Pamela Reaves is a past member of the San Rafael 2040 General Plan Steering Committee and the San Rafael Climate Change Action Plan Update Working Group. Pamela remains active in San Rafael as the environ- mental team leader for the nonprofit Responsible Growth Marin.

She graduated from the Environmental Forum of Marin, class of 30 and co-coordinated Toxins Day and Advocacy Day for many years. She was a Marin County Integrated Pest Management Commissioner for six years and helped revamp the County IPM Ordinance to improve oversight, transparency, and collaboration.

Because 53% of Marin County’s green house gas emissions are from transportation, Pamela is particularly interested in helping our County move towards electrification of all vehicles and to increase access to electric vehicles and EV infrastructure to all income levels. She also supports creek restoration and ranch management practices that can se- quester carbon to help combat climate disruption as well as improve the economic vitality of the rancher. She and her wife have lived in North San Rafael for 22 years and have created a waterwise luscious garden with vegetables, many citrus, stone fruit, and apple trees, as well as bird, bee, and butterfly habitat. Pam loves to hike for rejuvenation and exercise. She is newly retired from her clinical psychology practice.

Roger Roberts is a resident of Marin County since 1970. Roger retired after a 35-year career in International Trade and Project Finance. He has been a member of the Marin Conservation League for approximately 20 years, previously served on the Board for 12 years, 3 of those years as President.

Roger has a M.Sc. in World Business Administration and Finance from San Francisco State University and B.A. in Government and International Relations from the College of William and Mary. He served on the board of directors of Marin Citizens for Energy Planning, served as City Councilman for the City of Larkspur, served on various citizens advisory and action committees, and is a member of a number of other national and local environmental organizations.

PAGE 11 Non-Profit Marin Conservation League Organization Board of Directors U.S. POSTAGE PAID Officers Permit No. 151 Bob Miller, San Rafael, President San Rafael, CA Mike Swezy, Fairfax, 1st Vice President January - February 2021 Greg Zitney, Novato, 2nd Vice President Susan Stompe, Novato, Secretary 175 N. Redwood Dr., Ste. 135 San Rafael, CA 94903 Kenneth Drexler, Fairfax, Treasurer Directors RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Kim Baenisch, San Rafael Bob Berner, Dillon Beach Nona Dennis, Mill Valley Roger Harris, Corte Madera Larry Kennings, Mill Valley David Lewis, Novato Larry Minikes, San Rafael Vicki Nichols, Sausalito Linda Novy, Fairfax Kate Powers, San Rafael Pam Reaves, San Rafael Roger Roberts, San Rafael Jeff Stump, Inverness Terri Thomas, Sausalito Doug Wilson, Mill Valley Board of Directors meetings are held at 6:00 pm on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Staff New Year, New Vision! Kirsten Nolan, San Rafael Communications & Outreach Coordinator Martha Richter Smith, San Anselmo MCL Mission Office Administrator The mission of Marin Conservation League is to preserve, protect and enhance the natural assets of Marin in a changing environment Contact Information 175 N. Redwood Dr., Ste. 135 San Rafael CA 94903 | 415.485.6257 MCL Vision marinconservationleague.org Marin Conservation League’s vision for Marin is an ecologically diverse and [email protected] resilient natural environment that is valued and cared for by a thriving, Issue Committee Meeting Schedule engaged community (subject to change—check website) Land Use and Transportation: MCL Guiding Principles st 1 Wed. of the month, 10:00 am—12:00 pm 1. SUPPORT NATURE FIRST ACROSS ALL LANDS and WATERS. Give highest Parks and Open Space: priority to sustaining and restoring natural systems, including undeveloped open 2nd Thurs. of the month, 3:00 pm—5:00 pm space, agricultural lands, and urban landscapes. Fire and Environment Working Group: 2nd Mon. of the month, 3:00 pm—5:00 pm 2. ACT BASED ON BEST AVAILABLE SCIENCE. Be scientifically credible, employing Climate Action Working Group: 3rd Fri. of the most comprehensive information in advocating policies, positions and best the month, 9:00 am—11:00 am practices. Agricultural Land Use: meets quarterly; 3. INTEGRATE CLIMATE CHANGE UNDERSTANDING INTO OUR WORK. Act know- North Marin Unit: Check website for times ing that global climate change has profound local and regional environmental effects. Recognize that actions and policies for local mitigation and adaptation- Marin Conservation League was founded in 1934 to preserve, protect and enhance Marin -especially innovative ones--can have regional or national impacts. County’s natural assets. MCL is a non-profit 4. WORK FOR ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION. 501(c)3 organization. All contributions and These values are vital in all of our environmental advocacy work. memberships are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. 5. USE DIVERSE APPROACHES FOR MOBILIZING ACTION. When common goals Editor: Kate Powers, Nona Dennis allow, pursue opportunities to convene groups and forge partnerships in order to Design and Production: Kirsten Nolan increase collective impact. Printed in Marin on recycled paper with soy ink. 6. BE TIRELESS ADVOCATES FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. Advocate assertively and Please share and recycle. tenaciously for the environment and be passionate in carrying forward the MCL legacy. Read more in the President's Message, page 2

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