Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee (FWC) Date: July 16, 2014 Time: 3:00 p.m.
Location: County Public Works Department Road Maintenance Division lunch room (squad room) 2475 Waterbird Way, Martinez CA 94553 (Map is attached.)
AGENDA
3:00 Introductions.
3:05 Review/Approve minutes from the June 18, 2014 meeting.
3:10 Public comment. Includes public comment on topics on the agenda and items not listed on the agenda. The FWC shall also accept public comment on agenda items at the time they are discussed.
3:15 Updates and announcements from staff and FWC members. Includes discussion on implementation of actions authorized previously, on correspondence received, and on upcoming meetings of interest to the FWC.
3:20 Review and accept the final report from the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District on their Interpretive Panels for Alhambra Creek Watershed project.
3:25 Review and accept the final report from the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District on their Water Quality Testing for Salmonid Survival in Alhambra Creek Watershed project.
3:30 Review and accept the final report from The Regents of the University of California – Contra Costa Master Gardener Association on their Contra Costa Master Gardeners Our Garden Sustainability Program.
3:35 Review update provided by the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District on the Pinole Creek Fish Passage Enhancement Project.
3:45 Review and consider finalizing the draft 2014 Fish and Wildlife Committee Fall Forum agenda and discuss the budget, outreach and members’ tasks (pending Board of Supervisors authorization to spend Fish and Wildlife Propagation funds to host the event).
4:00 Review and discuss the draft 2014 work plan and annual report to the Board of Supervisors.
4:25 Review and consider approving the draft Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2015 grant cycle.
4:45 Determine the agenda for the next meeting. The next regular meeting date is August 20, 2014 and will be a field trip to the Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. Possible agenda items for upcoming meetings include:
Consider developing recommendations and/or a white paper on rodenticide use in the County Presentation on problem weeds
5:00 Adjourn
Times are approximate. Please contact Maureen Parkes at 925-674-7831 / [email protected] (or John Kopchik at 925-674- 7819 / [email protected]) at the CCC Department of Conservation and Development if you have questions about the Fish & Wildlife Committee or desire materials related to this agenda. The FWC will provide reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities planning to participate in this meeting who contact staff at least 72 hours before the meeting. County Public Works Department Road Maintenancce Division lunchroom (squad room)
From Hwy 680: 1. Merge onto CA-4W 2. Continue with the directions from Hwy 4.
From Hwy 4: 1. Take the Pacheco Blvd exit. 2. Merge onto Pacheco Blvd. 3. Turn onto Blum Road (North past Police Department). 4. Turn right onto Imhoff Drive (a cemetery is at the corner of Blum and Imhoff). 5. Turn left onto Waterbird. (There is a Top Soil / Clean Dirt sign at the corner). 6. Turn left onto the Public Works Maintenance building after you pass County’s gas pumping station. Once you are in the parking lot, passs the building on your right. Park your car near the side entrance (not the front entrance). Enter through the side entrance.
Our meeting room is on your left once you enter the building. Please ask the receptionist to direct you if you have trouble finding the meeting room.
Draft Meeting Minutes of the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee on June 18, 2014
Introductions. Martha Berthelsen, Roni Gehlke, Susan Heckly, Kathleen Jennings, Webb Johnson, Kevin McIlvenna, Daniel Pellegrini, Jeff Skinner and Scott Stephan attended the meeting. Martha Berthelsen provided advance notice that she would not be able to attend the meeting. Brett Morris was absent. Matthew Graul (East Bay Regional Park District), Nancy Kaiser (East Bay Regional Park District), Jim Hale, Nicole Kozicki (California Department of Fish and Wildlife) and Nancy Wenninger (Mount Diablo Audubon Society) attended the meeting. Maureen Parkes (CCC Department of Conservation and Development) attended as staff.
Review/Approve minutes from the May 21, 2014 meeting. The meeting minutes were approved as written.
Vote: 7-0 AYES: Gehlke, Heckly, Jennings, Johnson, McIlvenna, Pellegrini and Skinner NOES: None ABSENT: Berthelsen and Morris
Public comment. None.
Updates and announcements from staff and FWC members. Includes discussion on implementation of actions authorized previously, on correspondence received, and on upcoming meetings of interest to the FWC.
Maureen Parkes updated the Committee on the following items: • Martha Berthelsen provided advance notice that she would not be able to attend the meeting today. • Louis Terrazas, Don Brubaker, Francesca Demgen, Matthew Bettelheim had confirmed they are available and will present at the Fall Forum. • The field trip to Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge is confirmed for August 20, 2014 from 3-5 P.M. • Catherine Kutsuris, the Director of the Department of Conservation and Development announced her upcoming retirement.
Presentation on Managing and Minimizing the Impacts of Dogs in Regional Parks. (Matthew Graul, Chief of Stewardship, East Bay Regional Park District) Matthew Graul gave an informative presentation. He sited EBRPD Ordinance 38 which lists the prohibited and leash required areas for dogs. He said that they had installed educational signs and split rail fences to curb disturbance by trail users and pets to fish, water quality, and the riparian corridor. He said studies indicate that numerous dog owners read the signs and ignore the directions. Creek bank erosion is still an issue. He discussed several recommendations to improve the situation: • Repair fences and replace compliance signs on Wildcat Creek where needed. • Conduct additional monitoring to determine problem areas and erosion control options. • Create public service announcements to educate public about sensitive resources and resource protection issues. • Enlist volunteers and dog walkers to educate the public regarding potential ecological impacts. • Designate Wildcat Creek and Rifle Range Creek as resource protection areas.
The Committee suggested additional wording and QR codes on signage to include the amount of the fine for having a dog off leash and directions to trails/areas where dogs are allowed. The Committee thanked Mr. Graul for his presentation.
Presentation on the Kids Healthy Outdoors Challenge – Field Trips project. (Nancy Kaiser, Interpretive Services Manager, East Bay Regional Park District) Nancy Kaiser gave an informative presentation. She explained that the Kids Healthy Outdoor Challenge is a customized outdoor curriculum based on the Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, which has been adopted by 12 U.S. states. She explained that children and young adults have not had the outdoor experiences that current middle aged and older adults had in childhood and that this is a collaborative project to bring these life experiences to today’s children. Their program is focused on third grade students and they also had a successful all day field trip for Antioch High School. The Committee thanked Ms. Kaiser for her presentation.
Review letter of thanks from the Regional Parks Foundation for 2014 Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund grant award for the Kids Healthy Outdoor Challenge – Field Trips project. The Committee reviewed the letter.
Review and consider approving the request from the City of Walnut Creek for an extension to complete their Leviathan Floating Island Project Extension and a reissuance of the grant award check. The Committee reviewed and approved the request for an extension of time to complete the project and the reissuance of the grant award check.
Vote: 7-0 AYES: Gehlke, Heckly, Jennings, Johnson, McIlvenna, Pellegrini and Skinner NOES: None ABSENT: Berthelsen and Morris
Determine the agenda for the next meeting. The next regular meeting date is July 16, 2014. Possible agenda items for upcoming meetings include:
• Discuss the annual report/work plan (July) • Review RFP for 2015 Fish and Wildlife Propagation Grants (July) • Discuss the Fall Forum (July) • Field trip to Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) (August) • Wildlife in Your Backyard Brochure • Consider developing recommendations and/or a white paper on rodenticide use in the County • Presentation on problem weeds
Adjourn CONTRA COSTA DISTRICT NAME
(925) 672-6522 | PHONE (925) 672-8064 | FAX
5552 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94521
June 30, 2014 Contra Costa Fish and Wildlife Committee Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Rd. Martinez, CA 94553
FINAL REPORT Interpretive Panels for Alhambra Watershed / Watershed Education Program
Dear Fish and Wildlife Committee Members:
Contra Costa RCD received a generous grant for $2,650 from the Fish & Wildlife Committee in 2011, with an extension in 2012, to produce interpretive panels depicting Alhambra Watershed. The interpretive panels were installed in 2013 and a report was submitted to the CCF&W Committee in January 2014. The Committee gave the CCRCD permission to devote the $627.15 that remained after the completion of the interpretive panels to watershed education programs that incorporate the interpretive panels. This spring we collaborated with Alhambra High School to lead high school students in educational activities that benefit native plants, fish, and wildlife. Grant funds also support the Alhambra Native Plant Trail, an ongoing collaboration with Vicente Martinez High School’s New Leaf Academy.
March 15, 2014 Thirty-eight AP Biology high school students and six adults volunteered at the National Park Service’s Strentzel Meadow. We combined field work with an introduction to voluntary stewardship and ecological restoration. We used posters of the interpretive panels to teach about Alhambra Creek Watershed. We conducted two tours: One highlighted native plant restoration, the other tour focused on stream restoration. Students learned how the restoration project has reduced flooding and sediment deposition in the neighborhood downstream of the meadow. The restored meadow has also improved wildlife habitat. Students learned how this well-managed site contributes to regional scientific study of phenology, better public land management decisions, environmental education, and community outreach. After the tours, students enlarged and replaced wire cages that protect native trees and removed perennial pepperweed near the meadow’s test plots of native grasses.
May 18, 2014 Sixteen students and five adults volunteered at East Bay Regional Park District’s Martinez Shoreline. Before we began to pick up trash, we took a tour of the Shoreline and saw three of the four Alhambra Watershed interpretive panels. Students enjoyed our Alhambra Watershed Information Scavenger Hunt and found the answers to the scavenger-hunt questions on the interpretive panels, the Clean Water Program’s trash posters, and their own observations of native and non-native plants.
www.ccrcd.org
2014-2015 School Year We are very excited about plans for next year. Our partners at Alhambra High School and the New Leaf Collaborative plan to expand the educational programs. We used grant funds to print 20 watershed posters and purchase 5 pocket field guides to local wildlife for educational reference materials. We will also print postcards and stock outdoor brochure boxes along the Alhambra Native Plant Trail with flyers that educate the public about native plant gardens.
COMPLETED ACTIVITIES AND EXPENDITURES LOCATION, DATE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVE EXPENDITURES TOTAL Strentzel Creek & Restoration, Maintenance, and Monitoring: Hardware, gardening $185.39 Meadow Tour the restoration site, use interpretive supplies:$152.39 March 15, 2014 panel posters to teach watershed concepts. Snacks: $33.00 Repair and maintain plant cages and wattles.
Remove weeds. Martinez Regional Shoreline Clean-up Day: Field guides & small prizes $137.21 Shoreline “Informational scavenger hunt” that (Lindsay Museum): $101.39 May 18, 2014 incorporates the interpretive panels Collect Refreshments: $35.82 trash. Identify native & invasive plants. Alhambra Native Informational flyers and postcards available 2 outdoor brochure boxes $142.89 Plant Trail to the public at two gardens. (Staples) $61.15 Supplies for printing flyers and postcards (Staples) $81.74 All Programs References for educational programs: 20 Printing (Staples) $134.60 $166.88 24”x18”watershed posters and 5 pocket Wildlife pocket guides (Lindsay field guides Museum): $32.28 CCRCD contribution ($5.22) Total grant funds 627.15
The members of Alhambra Watershed Council are grateful for the support of the Contra Costa County Fish & Wildlife Committee. With your support volunteers are protecting the plants and wildlife of Alhambra Creek Watershed.
Sincerely,
Lisa Anich Watershed Coordinator for the Alhambra Watershed Council Contra Costa Resource Conservation District
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ALHAMBRA WATERSHED EDUCATION EVENTS -- 2014
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Alhambra Native Plant Trail Native plant gardens California gardens planted by students and volunteers
CONSERVE
water, ATTRACT birds and butterflies,
Photos Elaine by Jackson and ENHANCE homes and businesses. Martinez Chamber of Commerce office @ Amtrak Station Ward St & Las Juntas Martinez Library Reading Garden Martinez Senior Center Les Schwab Tire Center John Muir National Historic Site Plantas nativas de California CONSERVAR el agua, ATRAEN a la aves y mariposas, y MEJORAR las casas y negocios.
California native plants need less water Contra Costa once established. No need for fertilizers, Nonprofit rate Resource Conservation District herbicides, or pesticides because they are adapted to our climate. 5552 Clayton Rd Concord CA 94521 Plantas nativas de California necesitan poca agua. No hay necesidad de fertilizantes, herbicidas o pesticidas porque se adaptan a nuestro clima. So plant a border or fill your garden with California’s native plants! FIND OUT MORE AT
!www.ccrcd.org/alhambra.html We are grateful for support from the Contra Costa County Fish & Wildlife Propagation Contra Costa Resource Conservation District Fund and the Contra Costa County Alhambra Watershed Council Watershed Program.
ALHAMBRA NATIVE PLANT TRAIL POSTCARD
4 CONTRA COSTA DISTRICT NAME
(925) 672-6522 | PHONE (925) 672-8064 | FAX
5552 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94521
June 30, 2014 Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Rd. Martinez, CA 94553 FINAL REPORT 2013-14 Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund Grant Water Quality Testing for Salmonid Survival in Alhambra Creek Watershed
Dear CCC Fish & Wildlife Committee Members:
Contra Costa RCD received a generous grant of $1,712.52 from the Fish & Wildlife Committee in 2013 for equipment and supplies for the Alhambra Creek water quality monitoring program, which has two goals: 1. To train monitoring volunteers in collaboration with the New Leaf Academy in Martinez. 2. To evaluate whether Alhambra Creek has suitable for summer pool habitat for salmonids by testing stream temperatures and dissolved oxygen. VOUNTEER MONITORING PROGRAM This program is now in its third year. Seventeen New Leaf Academy High School students helped monitor water quality in the 2013-14 school year; 29 students have participated since April 2012. Presentations are given each year to the entire class, explaining the purpose of volunteer monitoring. The presentation covers basic chemistry and hydrology concepts, non-point source pollution, pollution prevention, and aquatic habitats. A short report about the AQUATIC HABITAT EVALUATION follows. GRANT EXPENDITURES VENDOR AMOUNT Calibration Supplies membrane kit, 4, 7, 10 & conductivity EquipCo (June 2014) $110.85 4, 7, 10 & conductivity EquipCo (January 2014) $47.63 Test Kits ammonia-nitrogen, phosphate Forestry Suppliers $161.00 New Equipment Hanna 9146 DO meter, shipping Forestry Suppliers $519.03 USB adapter for YSI datalogger Staples $47.40 8 temperature dataloggers, shuttle, software Onset HOBO dataloggers $684.00 Other Expenses mileage $143.39 CCRCD Contribution ($0.78) TOTAL GRANT EXPENSE $1,712.52
The members of Alhambra Watershed Council are grateful for support of the Contra Costa County Fish & Wildlife Committee which has provided essential funding for the Alhambra Water Quality Monitoring Program.
Sincerely,
Lisa Anich, Watershed Coordinator for the Alhambra Watershed Council Contra Costa Resource Conservation District 1
1. ALHAMBRA CREEK MONITORING PROGRAM Since April 2012 data has been collected almost every month at F St in Martinez. Data has been collected at other sites for most months beginning in February 2013. (Stations, equipment, and monitoring intervals are listed in Part 3.) Temperature dataloggers were purchased with grant funds. Continuous temperature data at a 30-minute interval has been collected at the Martinez Adult Education Campus Restoration Site (about 0.1 km upstream from F St) since April 22 2014 and other sites for shorter periods. We borrow Contra Costa County’s YSI 556 Multiparameter Datasonde which measures dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, and specific conductance. Fish & Wildlife Propagation grant funds enabled us to purchase a second dissolved oxygen/temperature meter (Hanna 9146) for educational programs and for use when the YSI 556 is unavailable. Dissolved oxygen in typical streams varies diurnally and is at a minimum in the early morning before algae and plant photosynthesis replenishes oxygen. Dissolved oxygen data has been measured between 9 am and noon and is expected to be in the lower part of the diurnal range. As of June 2014 we’ve not yet had a full summer to collect short-interval (30-minute) water temperature data. This year’s disappointing dry conditions make it difficult to evaluate suitability of summer pool habitat for salmonids. This year it is not feasible to monitor two of the sites throughout the summer but we will continue to collect 30-minute interval temperature data at the School Restoration site.
2. EVALUATION of AQUATIC HABITAT in ALHAMBRA CREEK Trout have been documented in Franklin Creek and in Alhambra Creek at the School Restoration site but we do not know whether they are migratory or resident. Dissolved oxygen and healthy stream temperatures are two necessities for salmonids and all aquatic life. We compare temperatures and dissolved oxygen concentrations to simplified criteria: Streams that support migratory fish should be cooler than 75 deg F ( 24 deg C). The dissolved oxygen concentration should be more than 6 mg/l for coldwater fish. The dissolved oxygen concentration should be 5mg/l or more for most other fish. Our data, though limited, provide a framework for understanding conditions in Alhambra Creek in a dry summer (2013) and an exceptionally dry summer (2014). Figure 1 illustrates the drastic reduction of dissolved oxygen (DO) in the low-precipitation years of 2013 and 2014 at F St. There has been an obvious decrease in DO during the current drought. Even during the winter of 2014 the DO was not above 55% saturation at any time when we were monitoring. Only one monthly observation at F St in 2014 met the criteria for coldwater fish, with a DO concentration of 6.03 mg/l. (DO was much higher at other sites but we do not have data at those sites for 2012.)
? ? ?
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FINDINGS So far we have found that: Dissolved oxygen depletion is far more critical than high water temperatures. Stream temperatures above 75 deg F ( 24 deg C) have not been observed. The highest 30-minute interval temperature was 72.2 deg F at the school restoration site at 7 PM on June 9, 2014. The maximum air temperature at the site that day was 103 deg F. The temperature datalogger at the school restoration site is in a location that is relatively shallow and well-lit. Cooler water temperatures are found in deeper and more shaded pools.
Figure 2. 30-minute interval stream temperatures in Alhambra Creek and Franklin Creek 76 74 school restoration 72 alhambra ave 70 68 upper franklin 66 64 62 60 58 56 54 52
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Stream Temperature, deg F deg Temperature, Stream
5/3/14 5/6/14 5/9/14 6/2/14 6/5/14 6/8/14
4/21/14 4/24/14 4/27/14 4/30/14 5/12/14 5/15/14 5/18/14 5/21/14 5/24/14 5/27/14 5/30/14 6/11/14 6/14/14 6/17/14 6/20/14 6/23/14 6/26/14 6/29/14
Overall, data is consistent with the “Relative BMI Rankings” for Alhambra Creek and for other Contra Costa Watersheds1 in that stressors to aquatic life increase from the upper watershed to the lower watershed. Upper Franklin Creek seems least impaired; the Alhambra Valley Creek Corridor (AVCC) between Wanda Way and Alhambra Avenue is intermediate; DO and temperatures are least suitable for salmonids in downstream sites. Of the sites monitored, the highest summer DO concentrations occur in shallow pools and riffles in the upper watershed (Upper Franklin Creek and Alhambra Creek at Wanda Way). Though aquatic plants and algae are sources of dissolved oxygen, algae could degrade habitat. Of the sites monitored, the most impaired is F Street. The likely cause of low DO concentrations is Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) from organic matter which consumes oxygen as it decomposes, combined with stagnation - flow rates too low to mix water and air. Possible sources of BOD and dissolved solids include leaking septic tanks or sewage pipes and grass clippings, leaves, and other organic waste dumped in the creek. Specific conductance, an indicator of dissolved solids, is higher in Alhambra Creek than Franklin Creek.
1 Data from the Creeks, Contra Costa Watershed Forum, March 2006
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Figure 3 summarizes data collected in the drought years 2013-14. It is not conclusive because it represents a small dataset and some missing data is estimated. Figure 3 serves as a hypothesis to be tested and a guide for future monitoring. Columns are arranged (L to R) from downstream to upstream sites. Sites are characterized by stream velocity (still pools or shallow riffles), the connectedness of the stream, and likely impairment due to pollution.
Figure 3: Dissolved oxygen concentration of Alhambra Creek during drought- a preliminary assessment 11.00 mouth of creek
downstream pool, most impaired 10.00 Criteria for cold-water fish (6 mg/l) connected pool, impaired and most other fish (5 mg/l) 9.00 riffle, impaired upstream pool that becomes isolated 8.00 least impaired site
7.00
6.00
5.00
DIssolved DIssolved Oxygen,mg/l 4.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.00 April May June July Aug Sept
Figure 3 illustrates these observations: In a drought year, most sites do not meet the DO criteria for coldwater fish through the summer. The least-impaired sites may meet DO criteria for coldwater fish through the summer. Dissolved oxygen concentrations can drop off quickly after a pool becomes isolated. At the mouth of Alhambra Creek there is more DO than at the impaired pools at F St and the restoration site. Deeply incised channels with steep banks limit aquatic plant growth. Wider, less incised channels (Franklin Creek and the Restoration Site) have higher dissolved oxygen concentrations than deep narrow channels. Some observations prompt questions: Alhambra Creek at Marina Vista Park is warmer than upstream sites by as much as 4.5 deg C (8 deg F) possibly due to tidal influx of water that has warmed in the shallow unshaded shoreline channels and marshes. Due to
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warmer temperatures and higher salinity, the 100% saturated DO concentration at the mouth of the creek is less than that at upstream sites. Even so, the DO concentration at the mouth of the creek is better than in impaired pools upstream. The site in upper Franklin Creek has surprisingly high DO concentrations, but it is not pristine; Illegal dumping occurs here. Algae at this site increases DO in late summer. Specific conductance (and dissolved solids) are notably lower at this Franklin Creek site than at any site on Alhambra Creek. While water at F Street has the lowest DO concentrations of any site, DO is better only a few hundred feet upstream at the school restoration site. F Street is a densely shaded site; just upstream, the restored creek banks allow more sunlight to reach the creek, which increases aquatic plant photosynthesis. However, algae has not been observed at the restoration site. Continuous short-interval DO data would help us compare the relative importance of photosynthesis versus streamflow mixing for replenishment of dissolved oxygen in Alhambra Creek.
CONCLUSIONS Although trout have been identified in Alhambra Creek at the School Restoration site and in Franklin Creek, preliminary data indicates that low dissolved oxygen concentrations would limit salmonid survival to the least-impaired sites during drought conditions. It is important to note that we monitor a small number of accessible sites and more suitable habitat may exist. We will continue to monitor Alhambra Creek to refine our interpretation of the data. We also want to compare our data with that of other local monitoring programs, notably the National Park Service’s data for Franklin Creek and temperature data from Contra Costa County Flood Control’s new gaging stations. We would also gain insights by monitoring other local creeks (Pinole, Rodeo, Peyton, Walnut, and Mount Diablo).
3. MONITORING SITES and EQUIPMENT Monitoring Sites Data Interval 1 Alhambra Ck at Marina Vista Park Bridge Monthly 2 Alhambra Ck at F Street Bridge Monthly 3 Alhambra Ck at School Restoration Site Monthly & 30 minute 4 Alhambra Ck at Walnut Avenue Bridge Monthly 5 Upper Franklin Ck Monthly & 30 minute 6 Alhambra Ck below Alhambra Avenue Monthly & 30 minute 7 Alhambra Ck at Alh. Valley Rd & Wanda Way Monthly below confluence with Arroyo del Hambre
MONTHLY INTERVAL DATA Dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, and specific conductance are measured using a YSI 556 multiparameter system, calibrated each day of use. Air temperature is measured with a digital thermometer. 30-MINUTE INTERVAL DATA Water temperature and air temperature are collected with HOBO dataloggers.
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From: Wallace, Ben- NRCS, Concord, CA [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, July 07, 2014 2:56 PM To: Maureen Parkes Subject: RE: FWC - Project Update
Maureen,
Thank you for the opportunity to update the Fish and Wildlife Committee on the Pinole Creek Fish Passage Enhancement Project. This email provides an update on the project.
PROJECT TIMELINE. CCRCD has decided to shift our target construction date to July 2015 (rather than this summer). I have attached a copy of the revised project milestones, assuming construction in the summer of 2015. There are numerous reasons for the change in schedule: · Designs. We were unable to schedule a technical review meeting with the Corps of Engineers flood control staff until April, which has delayed the procurement of the access/encroachment permit from the local Flood Control District. Subsequently, CCRCD requested additional comment on the revised designs. We are awaiting final approval, which is anticipated to come this summer. · CEQA. We learned that the CEQA document Caltrans prepared in 2012 needed to be revalidated. This California State Coastal Conservancy is providing in-kind consultant to assist with preparing an Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration. We anticipate this will be completed by the end of the year. Next steps: Once the final designs are approved and CEQA is underway, CCRCD will acquire the remaining regulatory permits, finalize bid specifications, solicit contractor bids, and award a contract for construction next summer. We also will be working on a long-term maintenance MOU with Caltrans and the Flood Control District.
FUNDING AGREEMENT. I appreciate the Fish and Wildlife Committee's support for this project. I look forward to following up with you about executing a funding contract when you are ready to do so. At what point you anticipate the Committee will be ready to execute a funding agreement? Will the funding agreement before one year or two?
Based on our recent conversation, I am not planning to attend the July meeting, however, I have saved the day for October. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions about the project.
Respectfully,
Ben ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Benjamin Wallace Contra Costa RCD (925) 672-6522 ext. 106 (510) 672-1260 (c) [email protected] Revised Milestones for Phillips 66 – Pinole Creek SEP (revised 05/20/2014)
Milestone Target Date QR 11 05/01/13 QR 12 08/01/13 QR 13 11/01/13 QR 14 02/01/14 QR 15 05/01/14 QR 16 08/01/14 FCD encroachment permit awarded 09/30/14 QR 17 11/01/14 CEQA revalidation complete 12/31/14 QR 18 02/01/15 Regulatory permits issued 01/31/15 Complete final (95%) construction plans & specifications 02/28/15 Caltrans encroachment permit awarded 02/28/15 Release bid solicitation 03/31/15 QR 19 05/01/15 Execute construction contract 06/30/15 QR 20 08/01/15 Complete construction 10/14/15 QR 21 11/01/15 Deliver completed (100%) as-built engineering report 11/30/15 QR 22 02/01/16 QR 23 05/01/16 QR 24 08/01/16 Complete first year monitoring (EBMUD lead) 09/30/16 QR 25 11/01/16 Certify completion of SEP 11/01/16 Final report 12/01/16 Color Key: Black: Project Mgmt. Blue: Engineering. Red: Permitting.
Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee Meeting ~ 14th Annual Fish and Wildlife Fall Forum in Contra Costa County ~
Date: Thursday, September 25, 2014 Time: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Location: Martinez Sportsmen’s Club, 304 Embarcadero Street, Martinez
If you plan to attend, please RSVP by September 19 to Maureen Parkes at (925) 674-7831 or [email protected]. Please indicate your preference for baby back ribs, chicken or a vegetarian/vegan option.
(Please see reverse for detailed map and directions)
AGENDA
5:00 Reception/sign-in/refreshments
5:30 Welcome and overview (Danny Pellegrini, Chair, Fish and Wildlife Committee)
6:00 Fish and Wildlife Outreach (to be determined) • The purpose of the Fall Forum • Acknowledgement of the relationships created by Judicial process • Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Committee’s interest in the Fish and Game Codes • Opportunities to improve coordination • Recognition of the work of conservation partners who have previously received grants from the Committee
6:15 Featured Presentation: Bricks, Books, and Butterflies: The Natural History and Restoration Outlook at Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge (Louis Terrazas - Wildlife Refuge Specialist for San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Don Brubaker – Refuge Manager for San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Francesca Demgen – President of Friends of San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Matthew Bettelheim - Wildlife Biologist and Science Writer)
----Complementary rib/chicken/vegan dinner courtesy of Fish and Wildlife Committee chefs----
6:40 Comments/questions/suggestions (including public comment)
6:50 Dessert and open discussion/mixer
7:00 Adjourn
Please contact Maureen Parkes at (925) 674-7831 or [email protected] if you have questions about the Fish and Wildlife Committee or desire additional materials related to this meeting.
From Richmond / Hercules on Hwy 4: Exit at Alhambra Avenue and turn left Continue on Alhambra Avenue Turn left at Marina Vista Ave Turn immediately right at Berrellesa Street and cross the train track Turn left onto Embarcadero Street (dirt road)
From Antioch/ Pittsburg on Hwy 4: Exit at Alhambra avenue and turn right Continue on Alhambra Avenue Turn left at Marina Vista Ave Turn immediately right at Berrellesa Street and cross the train track Turn left onto Embarcadero Street (dirt road)
From Walnut Creek / San Ramon on Hwy 680: Exit at Marina Vista and turn left Continue on Marina Vista Turn right at Berrellesa Street and cross the train track Turn left onto Embarcadero Street (dirt road)
From Benicia / Vallejo on Hwy 680: Exit at Marina Vista (first exit after the Benicia Bridge) and turn left Continue on Marina Vista Turn right at Berrellesa Street and cross the train track Turn left onto Embarcadero Street (dirt road)
Advisory Body Name: Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Advisory Body Meeting Time/Location: 3rd Wednesday of every month, 3 – 5 pm 2475 Waterbird Way County Public Works Department Road Maintenance Division lunch room Chair: Daniel Pellegrini Staff: John Kopchik and Maureen Parkes Reporting Period: January 2014 – December 2014 1. Activities and Accomplishments: The Fish and Wildlife Committee (Committee) met monthly to discuss matters related to fish and wildlife issues in Contra Costa County. The Committee is responsible for running a grant program that expends the Fish and Wildlife Propagation Funds (funds that are collected by the CA Department of Fish and Game for code violations). The Committee also hosts an annual Fall Forum to raise awareness among people working in law enforcement, environmental restoration, education and outreach about fish and wildlife issues. Grant Program: The Committee received 16 proposals for funding during the regular grant cycle. The Committee reviewed the proposals, interviewed applicants and selected each of the 16 proposals totaling $140,605.23 to recommend to the Board of Supervisors. Grants ranged from $985 to $40,000. The Committee reviewed progress and final reports and extended invitations to grantees to give presentations. Outreach: The Committee hosted the annual Fall Forum on September 25th, which is open to the public and encourages people involved in Fish and Wildlife law enforcement issues in Contra Costa County to attend. Invited attendees included representatives of the California Department of Fish and Game, Sheriff’s Department, District Attorney’s Office, Superior Court, Public Defender’s Office, the East Bay Regional Park District Police and the Board of Supervisors. Participants have indicated that the Fall Forums have been helpful in raising awareness and fostering cooperation on fish and wildlife issues and law enforcement. More than ___ people attended. Volunteer Activities: Several members volunteer in the community with other organizations that are interested in fish and wildlife issues. Martha Berthelsen - Steering Committee for SPAWNERS; Roni Gehlke – Aquarium in the Classroom Program; Susan Heckly - Lindsay Wildlife Museum and CCC Master Gardener; Kathleen Jennings - Mt. View Sanitary District’s Special Advisory Committee for the Peyton Slough Wetlands Advisory Committee; Webb Johnson - Waterbird Tours Alcatraz Island (National Park Service) and Farallones National Marine Sanctuary; Kevin McIlvenna - Friday Morning Breakfast Club (FMBC); Danny Pellegrini - Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District Board of Trustees, East Bay Regional Park District Park Advisory Committee, Sheriff’s Posse of Contra Costa County (Barbeque Captain) and the Martinez Sportsmens Club. Brochure: The Committee updated the Wildlife in Your Backyard brochure. Committee members were regularly updated on activities related to Fish and Wildlife in Contra Costa County and had presentations and a field trip which included: • Presentation on the Chelsea Wetlands Project. (Aaron Will, Ducks Unlimited, Inc.) • Presentation on the Draft Bay Delta Conservation Plan (twin-tunnel project) and the County’s position and engagement on this matter. (Ryan Hernandez, Department of Conservation and Development) • Presentation on the children’s book - Sardis and Stamm: from Storyboard to Storybook. (Matthew Bettelheim and Francesca Demgen, Friends of San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge) • Presentation on Managing and Minimizing the Impacts of Dogs in Regional Parks. (Matthew Graul, Chief of Stewardship, East Bay Regional Park District) • Presentation on the Kids Healthy Outdoors Challenge – Field Trips project. (Nancy Kaiser, Interpretive Services Manager, East Bay Regional Park District) • Field trip to Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge • Presentation at the Fall Forum
2. Attendance/Representation The Fish and Wildlife Committee consists of ten members. Each Supervisor appoints a member and the Internal Operations Committee appoints four members and one alternate. The term for a member is two years. The Committee meets monthly. They met ___ times at which a quorum was always present. The members were: Martha Berthelsen (D-1), Susan Heckly (D-II), Kevin McIlvenna (D-III), Brett Morris (D-IV), Daniel Pellegrini (D-V), Rhonda Gehlke (At-Large), Kathleen Jennings (At-Large), Jeff Skinner (At-Large), Webb Johnson (At-Large) and Scott Stephan (At-Large Alternate). 3. Training/Certification At monthly meetings committee members were regularly updated on activities related to fish and wildlife in Contra Costa County and had ____ presentations and one field trip (see Activities/Accomplishments). All members have viewed the required videos “The Brown Act and Better Government Ordinance – What You Need to Know as a Commission, Board or Committee Member” and “Ethics Orientation for County Officials.” Certifications are on file for all of the members.
4. Proposed Work Plan/Objectives for Next Year
(1) Fish and Wildlife Committee Operations: • Develop and refine Work Plan (working document in constant development). • Maintain FWC membership by advertising vacancies and forwarding applications to the Internal Operations Committee. • Seek to coordinate with other Fish and Wildlife Committees on regional matters. • Coordinate with Contra Costa Watershed Forum. (2) Make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors via the Internal Operations Committee for the appropriation of funds from the Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund to support fish and wildlife projects in the community: • Conduct grant program to solicit proposals, evaluate their relative merits, and recommend funding for projects which will contribute most to the fish and wildlife resources of the County. • Develop and advertise FWC grant program by: 1) Reviewing past Request for Proposals (RFP), funding applications; and 2) Developing new RFP, funding application deadline, and funding priorities and distributing these materials to the media, to the FWC mailing list and RFP mailing list, and to anyone else who request them. • Work with agencies, organizations, and individuals to help them plan and develop projects suitable for support from the Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund. • Monitor the efficacy of the grant disbursement process. • Review funding applications received. Make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors via the Internal Operations Committee for the awarding of grants. • Follow-up on projects that receive funding to assure that projects proceed as proposed. One way the FWC will do this is to extend invitations to prior Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund Grant recipients to future meetings to give status reports, outcomes and presentations regarding their projects. • Send out a letter to grant recipients requesting project status reports. (3) Fish and Wildlife Committee projects (develop and prioritize a list of projects for potential FWC involvement; select projects for FWC involvement and provided appropriate support, including: initiation, planning, consultation, and/or funding): • Make recommendations to the Board on awarding Certificates of Appreciation for significant contributions to the fish and wildlife resources of the County. • Consider a possible Wildlife Forum. (4) Improve enforcement of fish and game laws and regulations; increase flow of money into the Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund: • Review status reports on Fish and Game Code enforcement in Contra Costa County. Consider advising the Board on trends. • Help assure that, when appropriate, a portion of fines from violations of laws designed to protect fish and wildlife resources is deposited in the Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund. Promote awareness of the harm caused by violation of fish and wildlife regulations and the value of enforcement. • Host a Fall Forum with law enforcement officials (CA Dpt. of Fish and Game, Sheriff’s Dpt., District Attorney’s Office, Superior Court, Public Defender’s Office, the East Bay Regional Park District Police) to discuss fish and wildlife issues and enforcement. (5) Monitor and advise the Board on projects that may affect fish and wildlife resources in the county: • Attend field trips to see major restoration projects and prior Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund Grant recipients’ projects in the County. • Consider tours of ECCCHC properties, Marsh Creek Fish Ladder, Walnut Creek Drop Structure, Dow Wetlands and Chelsea Wetlands at Pinole. (6) Develop policy recommendations (“white papers”) on fish and wildlife issues: • Update FWC’s “Wildlife in Your Backyard” pamphlet. • Discuss rodenticide use in the County. • Discuss problem weeds. • Discuss wildlife and human interaction / interface. • Discuss public education on reducing the impact of cats on wildlife. • Discuss the Bay Delta Conservation Plan and proposal for water conveyance tunnels under the Delta.
Department of John Kopchik Contra Interim Director Conservation and Costa Aruna Bhat Development Deputy Director County 30 Muir Road Jason Crapo Martinez, CA 94553 Deputy Director
Phone: 1-855-323-2626
Date
Dear Fish and Wildlife Committee Propagation Fund Applicants:
The Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee is pleased to announce that completed funding applications are now being accepted for consideration for the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund (Fund). All application materials and guidelines are attached. Proposals must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2015 (a postmark of January 5, 2015, does not satisfy the submission deadline). Proposals may be emailed or mailed. Any applications that are received after the due date or without a signature will not be considered. The recommendations of the Fish and Wildlife Committee will be forwarded to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, which maintains final decision-making authority for expenditures from the Fund.
The Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund is entirely supported by fine revenues resulting from violations of the Fish and Game Code and Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations in Contra Costa County (County). Projects awarded from the Fund must benefit the fish and wildlife resources of the County and must meet the requirements of Section 13103 of the Fish and Game Code (attached). All applications that satisfy the requirements listed in the funding application directions will be considered.
The Fish and Wildlife Committee strongly encourages applications related to: • improving habitat, • scientific research, and
In addition, as a continued, additional focus for 2015, the Fish and Wildlife Committee wishes to fund high value, low-cost public education projects related to the scientific principles of fish and wildlife conservation. The Committee is interested in funding one or more small projects that will benefit the largest possible number of students (e.g. curriculum kits or other tools that have a high likelihood of making a significant impact on a broad audience.)
The Fish and Wildlife Committee generally does not recommend funding for operating costs and overhead, such as benefits or utilities. If an hourly rate is listed, costs need to be itemized separately (see grant guidelines for more details).
The Committee expects to recommend awards to several applicants. However, it is possible that a particularly excellent proposal will be recommended to receive a large portion of the total available funds. During the 2014 grant cycle a total of $140,605.23 was awarded to 16 projects. The awards ranged from $985 to $40,000. Successful applicants may anticipate receiving notification of funding awards by the late spring or summer of 2015.
The grant award funds will be disbursed on a cost reimbursement basis.* (See next page for exceptions.) Within a year of grant funding approval, or within one month of project completion, whichever comes sooner, recipients must submit a final project report which includes invoices and receipts documenting how funds were spent and the results of the project. Fish and Wildlife Propagation fund grants will be disbursed after receipt and approval of the final project report. Details will be outlined in the grant packet to all successful applicants.
*Exception For Non-Profit Organizations That Can Demonstrate Financial Hardship: Private, non-profit entities that can demonstrate that providing Fish and Wildlife Propagation grant funding on a cost reimbursement basis will create a financial hardship and be detrimental to the operation of the program will be eligible to receive up to ½ of the grant amount after the grant is awarded. The remaining amount of the grant will be disbursed after the entity has submitted information including invoices and receipts documenting how the initial disbursement was spent. Within a year of initial notification of the grant funding award (i.e. spring or summer of 2016), or within one month of project completion, whichever comes sooner, the entity will be required to submit information including invoices and receipts documenting how the second disbursement was spent, and provide a final project report documenting the results of the project.
*Exception For Small Projects Under $1,000: Grant funding may be disbursed to private, non-profit entities prior to the beginning of the project if the award is under $1,000 and the entity has provided documentation that the project could only be initiated with advance funding. Within a year of grant funding, or within one month of project completion, whichever comes sooner, recipients must submit a final project report which includes invoices and receipts documenting how funds were spent and the results of the project. The Committee appreciates your interest in this opportunity to improve the fish and wildlife resources in Contra Costa County. Should you have any questions about the Fish and Wildlife Committee or this funding program, please contact Maureen Parkes at 925-674-7831 or [email protected].
Sincerely,
Maureen Parkes Fish and Wildlife Committee Staff
Page 2 INSTRUCTIONS
What Must Be Included in Your Proposal (not to exceed 3 pages): 1) Signed Application Cover Page (see attached) 2) Description of the project for which funding is requested. Please include an explanation of: • how this project will benefit the fish and wildlife of Contra Costa County • how this project meets the requirements of Section 13103 of the Fish & Game Code (attached) which defines the eligibility requirements for projects requesting funding from the Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund. Indicate which letter(s) of the Section 13103 is/are satisfied. • If your proposal is eligible under Section 13103 (d), (h), (i), or (m), send a copy of your draft proposal a minimum of 30 days prior to the final deadline to the attention of Scott Wilson, Regional Manager, CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, 7329 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558, to request a letter of support. (This letter does not count toward your page limit) 3) Project schedule - The project must be completed within a year from the date you receive notification of funding (by Spring/Summer 2015). 4) Project budget (itemized). The Fish and Wildlife Committee generally does not recommend funding for operating costs and overhead. Examples for these may include benefits such as health insurance, and operation costs such as electricity to run an office. If an hourly rate is listed, overhead costs need to be itemized separately. The Committee generally gives preferences to funding material expenses (e.g. purchase of equipment). 5) Annual budget for the applying organization (not itemized). 6) Statement describing the applying organization, listing the Board of Directors and officers of the organization, and listing all affiliated organizations. 7) Statement describing the qualifications of the sponsoring organization and participating individuals for completing the project. 8) List of individuals responsible for performing project and of individuals responsible for overseeing project. 9) Statement describing the status of permit approvals necessary to perform project (if applicable). 10) Request for an exception to the grant funding cost reimbursement requirement due to financial hardship or an exception for a small project under $1,000. (This request does not count toward your page limit and is only required if requesting an exception.)
Format: • Your proposal packet, including cover sheet and any attachments must not exceed four single-sided pages or two double-sided pages, 8.5 by 11 inches in size. Please use 11 point font or larger and ½ inch margins or larger on your pages. If you are including a letter from the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife to demonstrate eligibility under Section 13103 (d), (h), (i) or (m) of the Fish and Game Code, this will not be counted as part of your page limit. Otherwise, if you submit more than 3 pages plus required cover sheet, your proposal may be disqualified without review. • Do not attach an additional cover letter, brochures, posters, publications, CDs, DVDs, large maps or yellow-sticky paper (e.g. Post-ItTM). • Your complete application packet including signature must arrive by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2015 (Pacific Standard Time) to be considered for funding. (Please note: A postmark of January 5, 2015 does not satisfy the submission deadline. If submitted after the deadline, your proposal will be disqualified).
Your complete application should be:
Emailed: [email protected] or Mailed: Contra Costa County Fish & Wildlife Committee c/o Contra Costa County Dept. of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553-4601 Attn: Maureen Parkes
If you wish to hand deliver, contact Maureen by email or at 925-674-7831. Page 1 of 2 Final Checklist Before You Submit Your Proposal: Please note that your proposal will not be considered if you provide more materials than required below: • Signed Cover page (your proposal will be disqualified if it does not have your original signature on the cover page). • 3 pages or less on your project description (any extra attachments such as a map and an organization budget will be counted as one of the three page limit.) • Letter from the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife only if your project is under Section 13103 (d), (h), (i), or (m) of the Fish and Game Code. (This is not a part of the page limit listed above). • Request for an exception to the grant funding cost reimbursement requirement due to financial hardship or an exception for a small project under $1,000. (This is not a part of the page limit listed above and is only required if requesting an exception).
If you have questions regarding the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund grant process, please contact Maureen Parkes: [email protected] / (925) 674-7831.
Page 2 of 2 13103. Expenditures from the fish and wildlife propagation fund of any county may be made only for the following purposes:
(a) Public education relating to the scientific principles of fish and wildlife conservation, consisting of supervised formal instruction carried out pursuant to a planned curriculum and aids to education such as literature, audio and video recordings, training models, and nature study facilities. (b) Temporary emergency treatment and care of injured or orphaned wildlife. (c) Temporary treatment and care of wildlife confiscated by the department as evidence. (d) Breeding, raising, purchasing, or releasing fish or wildlife which are to be released upon approval of the department pursuant to Sections 6400 and 6401 onto land or into waters of local, state, or federal agencies or onto land or into waters open to the public. (e) Improvement of fish and wildlife habitat, including, but not limited to, construction of fish screens, weirs, and ladders; drainage or other watershed improvements; gravel and rock removal or placement; construction of irrigation and water distribution systems; earthwork and grading; fencing; planting trees and other vegetation management; and removal of barriers to the migration of fish and wildlife. (f) Construction, maintenance, and operation of public hatchery facilities. (g) Purchase and maintain materials, supplies, or equipment for either the department's ownership and use or the department's use in the normal performance of the department's responsibilities. (h) Predator control actions for the benefit of fish or wildlife following certification in writing by the department that the proposed actions will significantly benefit a particular wildlife species. (i) Scientific fish and wildlife research conducted by institutions of higher learning, qualified researchers, or governmental agencies, if approved by the department. (j) Reasonable administrative costs, excluding the costs of audits required by Section 13104, for secretarial service, travel, and postage by the county fish and wildlife commission when authorized by the county board of supervisors. For purposes of this subdivision, "reasonable cost" means an amount which does not exceed 3 percent of the average amount received by the fund during the previous three-year period, or three thousand dollars ($3,000) annually, whichever is greater, excluding any funds carried over from a previous fiscal year. (k) Contributions to a secret witness program for the purpose of facilitating enforcement of this code and regulations adopted pursuant to this code. (l) Costs incurred by the district attorney or city attorney in investigating and prosecuting civil and criminal actions for violations of this code, as approved by the department. (m) Other expenditures, approved by the department, for the purpose of protecting, conserving, propagating, and preserving fish and wildlife. Contra Costa County Office Use Only: 2015 Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund Application Cover Page
Project title:
Organization/Individual applying:
(Organization type: please check one – government, non-profit, for-profit, other (explain)
Address:
Telephone: Fax:
E-mail:
Name and title of contact person:
One sentence summary of proposal:
Requested grant:
Proposal prepared by (name & title):
Signature (Typing your name does not count as a signature. If this section is empty, your proposal will not be considered):
______Signed on ______