BUTTE CREEK TRAILS PROJECT: A MASTER PLAN
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Authors CLIFFORD, SARS
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1* \ This Master’s Report has been submitted in partial fulfillm ent o f requirements for an advanced degree at The University o f Arizona and is deposited in theUniversity Li brary to be made available to borrowers under the rules o f the Library. Brief quotations from this project report are allowable without special permission, provide that accurate acknowledgement o f source is made. Request for permission for extended quotation from or reproduction o f this manuscript in whole or part may be granted by the copyright holder. / Signed:
APPROVAL BY THESIS DIRECTOR & COMMITTEE MEMBERS This thesis has been approved on the date shown below:
i'V c ^V - OZ- Mark P. Fredrickisqn,Thesis Director Date Associate Professor College o f Landscape Architecture
1 2 - ' o V ' o z__
Lauri Macmillian Johnson Date Associate Professor College o f Landscape Architecture
/a- 5 • Marjgaiw Livingston Date Assistant Professor College o f Landscape Architecture UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
SCHOOL OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
BUTTE CREEK TRAILS PROJECT:^ MASTER PLAN
A Master’s Report Submitted to the faculty of the
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE,PLANNING AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirments for the Degree of
MASTER OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
By Sars Clifford
Advisory Committee:
Associate Professor Mark Fredrickson Associate Professor Lauri Macmillan Johnson Assistant Professor Margaret Livingston
2002
W hat a he the natural features that make a township handsome? A river with it's waterfalls and meadows, a lake, a hill, a cl iff or indi vidual rocks, a forest, an ancient tree standing singly.Such things are beautiful; they have a high use which dollars and cents never repre sent. if the inhabitants o f the town were wise,they would seek to preserve such things ......
Henry David Thoreau, Journal 1861 Acknowledgements
What a wonderful journey this has been...... Who said you can't teach an old dog new tricks!
First o f all thank you to my friend and wife, Barbara..... your incredible attitude about challenge and change is tru ly remarkable... and to my kids, your'e the greatest!
To my compatriots in the Landscape Architecture Program..... we make a good team,Thank you .
To my committee , each ofyouur'e own special way have motivated me to succeed-
To those teachers that I have been so fortunate to work with....Thank you !
Nancy....for crossing the T's and dotting the i's...thank you for just being who you are. TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT OVERVIEW Acknowledgements What do I want to accomplish,scope and need o f the Butter Creek Trails Project. INTRODUCTION TO BUTTE CREEK CANYON Location o f th e p ro je ct area History o f Butte Creek Canyon PROJECT ANALYSIS Literature review. Site Inventory User group surveys Case studies PRELIMINARY DESIGN CONCEPTS Concept 1 Canoe Camp Concept 2 Picnic Day Camp Concept 3 Recreational Trail Concept 4 Butte Creek View Trail FINAL SOLUTION Final solution Final diagrammatic solution Trail heads Bicycle Trail Native Trail Covered Bridge Overview o f "Trails Project" Future trail extensions Benefits o f the project Conclusion APPENDICES References Survey guestionnaires/Results w nat qo I wgnx to ^ccompiibn
A mgsterplgn for the Butte Creek Trailways Project. Historical research, current analysis,community and individual surveys will be used in generating this ■ ■ project. Site inventory and case studies will help in determining a solution..Preliminary concepts will be derived from this research to determine a final concept solution.
Butte Creek Canyon roadside and creek
The Project location is in Butte County California. The specific region is Butte Stand o f Blue Oak,Butte Creek Canyon Creek canyon. This area is just a few miles outside the city limits o f Chico, California. Chico is town o f 65,000 people. Butte Creek Canyon sits between Chico and the town o f Paradise population 45,000. Paradise has a large retirement community. The canyon itself has a population o f approximately 1,500 people. Butte Creek is a year round stream abundant with steel head and salmon.
Panoramic view o f Butte Creek Canyon
Project Location
Butte Creek Canyon
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The Butte Creek Trails Project is located in Northern California. The site is situated between Chico and Paradise California. Butte Creek Canyon is nestled in the foothills o fth e Sierras.Butte creek sits in the canyon between two majestic volcanic walls to the east and west.The creek is a year round stream. Chinook salmon and steel head make this their home.Butte Creek Canyon is popular to local as well as com m unity residents. The Creek offers a respite from the hot summer day's.The Historic Honey Run Covered Bridge is a popular destination for those who visit the canyon. Local students find the creek a tubers paradise! Located 90 miles north o f Sacramento at the northern end o f the lush Sacra mento Valley is the town o f Chico. Six miles southeast o f the center o f Chico lies Butte Creek Canyon.This canyon is the site for The Butte Creek Trails Project. OR
The Butte Creek Trails Project is located within the boundaries o f the Butte Creek watershed. The Watershed is located in Butte County, along the eastern edge o fth e Sacramento Valley, in Northern California. Butte Creek is one ofthe few and most significant tributaries o f the Sacramento River system which provides important habitat to many aquatic and terrestrial animals, includ ing the rare Spring Run Chinook Salmon. The entire watershed is o u t lined in yellow,with the circled red area indicating the Butte Creek Trails Project. The watershed is under the protection o f the Butte Creek Water shed Advisory Committee. Monthly meetings are held,as well as special fundraisers to help with the upkeep and protection o f The Butte Creek Water- Butte Creek canyon was born 180 m illion years ago, the result o f a Cataclysmic explosion. The volcanoe respon sible for the massive buildup o f the canyon walls was Mount Lassen located 90 miles north o f the canyon. Butte Creek originates on the western slope o fth e Sierra Nevada at an elevation o f approximately 7 ,0 0 0 feet. Run-off originating from snow and rainfall creates numerous tributaries that flow into the Jonesville Basin in Lassen National Forest. Butte Creek cascades from the Jonesville Basin approximately 25 miles through a steep canyon to a point where it enters the valley floor near Chico. The stream flows all year, but peak flows generally occur between Octo ber and May. Early peak flows result fi'om rainfall, and late season peak flows result from snowmelt. Stream tem peratures remain cool all year. Deep, shaded pools surrounded by species o f pine and fir form the landscape in the section ofthe canyon above Centerville, whereas the area below has a shallower gradient and a riparian canopy o f alder, oak, sycamore and willow.
Today, Butte Creek is one ofthe most significant remaining tributaries ofthe Sacramento River that provides a habitat for a sustaining population o f spring run Chinook salmon and additionally supports fall run salmon, and poten tially a remnant population o f late fall run salmon and Steel head Trout.
Caves in upper Butte Creek Canyon Butte Creek circa 1910
The early residents o f Design implications Butte Creek Canyon were the Maidu Indians. The ’ Use o f native materials Maidu were content to live simply in caves or brush ’ Historical design elements dwellings along the creek's banks. ’ Viewsheds History of Butte Creek Canyon History
The Gol4 Rush
1844 John Bkjwell was given a land grant o f 2 6 ,0 0 0 acres and soon the Canyon began a huge transforma tion from a quiet wilderness, to a wild west gun toting carnival The reason for this change was the "California Gold Rush" The discovery o f gold changed forever the character o fth e canyon. In less then tw o years, three large settle ments grew within the canyon as gold strikers rushed into the canyon to search for the Gold! The settlements Helltown, Diamondville, and Centerville increased the canyons' occupancy to over 3500 people. A growth from the original 800 Maidu Indians estimated to have lived in the canyon previously to the Gold rush. The early miners worked exclusively within the creek bed, but as more miners came into the area the sophistication o f mining also grew. Miners alongside the canyon hillsides were blasting away with huge 8 inch water nozzles,bringing soft soils into the creek as well as the gold. This practice o f mining was reft red to as hydraulic mining. This mining technique was practiced first in California in 1855. By 1884, the practice had been outlawed because o f severe sedimentation that resulted in flooding, loss o f farmland and impairment to river navigation. More than one billion cubic yards o f silt, sand and gravel were estimated to have been washed down the Sacramento River and its tributaries by hydraulic mining. Gold found in the canyon was estimated to have been worth over 4 m illion dollars in its heyday. By 1863 there were no Maidu Indians left in a once peaceful idyllic canyon. The canyon now was strewn with miners and there left over wastes. Hillsides stripped barren o fa n y life...... Piles and piles o f rock rubble stood where previously pristine oak covered hills once had commanding views o fth e canyon and the creek. In addition to the white settlers, Chinese also flocked to the area. A large Chinese settlement stood near the center o f Diamondville. The Chinese worked side by side with the white miners fo r awhile, but then discontentment grew as gold became scarce. Economic sanctions were imposed on the Chinese. The Chinese people in the canyon were forbidden to file mining claims. These sanctions did not work, and in 1882 the Chinese settlement was burned to the ground- The remaining Chinese residents soon pulled up stakes and headed out o fth e canyon. By the turn ofthe century,most ofthe Canyon's mining companies moved out,leaving behind the scarred ruins o f mining activities. Today's canyon finds hearty souls looking for life outside the cities. Looking fora place to live that may offer a simpler alternative to a fast paced living. i i t j i v ' i y
Tod^y Butte Creek Canyon is a home to retirees, students, and families living outside the boundaries o fth e city. The canyon is again changing as big money from outside the area is bringing in an influx o f people, large homes, fast cars and a faster pace o f life. The quality o f life is again being threatened- Growth is invetiable. but smart growth is a choice! The existing roadway is narrow and winding,with barely enough room for bicyclist on the road,competeing with automobile traffic. Weekend traffic can be dangerous to the cyclist .Butte Creek Canyon is a very popular destina tion for students attending the nearby Chico Sate University. Access to the creek is limited to a few spots, forcing users to find parking and entrance to the water.There is no on road parking allowed in the canyon. Bicyclist also use this stretch o f Honey Run Road as a link between downtown Chico and neighboring town o f Paradise. It is a very popular biking area,with its proxim ity to the creek and roads leading to popular biking destinations. Local landowners are in disagreement as to just how much access should be allowed • Another huge concern is the stream bed itselfand the amount o f litter that is left behind by weekend "tubers".The salmon habitat is also being threatened by creek users and poachers looking fora fish dinner. Adversity is abundant in the canyon, but with good planning and forsight, hopefully the canyon can remain a place for all to enjoy.
BUTIEUEEK WAIERSHEC CONSE V NGf
nfoimirs MMtfC Ml IWbC**. Uni* swewtn No Glass MWMM to mil •mil**.'*«> ittm IIMHWW Containers ,ktoO***toC*M*p*:MRkWNtotoktoH MMft allowed on towkwktowi# butte creek scenes 1(1 II l.l MK * # * * * W « , * Butte Creek k to <(*•«.I tot* wwmitoilNi Chico Velo Magazine l**«tw **,i*» Awards recieved by The City o f Chico nw»3S5? JMaMUlMM
2002: Listed in "Top 100 Small Arts Towns in America" Oohn Villani, 2002) 2 0 0 0 : Ranked #1 in Forbes Magazine's "Best Places in America" (May, 2 0 0 0 ) 1999: Ranked 13th in Money.Com's "Best Places to Live" Survey 1998: Rated in Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine's "Great Places to Retire" 1997: Voted #1 Cycling Community in America by Bicycling Magazine Winter Migratory Waterfowl Tour PROJECTANALYSIS
LITERATURE REVIEW SITE IN V E N T O R Y USER GROUP SURVEYS CASE STUDIES
ANALYSIS
Literature review The books,articles and web sites visited all added to a study o f Land planning, bicycle path design, natural elements and resources,and the most important thoughts and ideas from previously designed trail way projects. The Tailings o f Butte Creek, played a most important part in gathering research o f Butte Creek Canyon. Joeseph Mag fees Butte County H istory he I ped with a historical timeline. Which was important in putting togetheran hisorical analysis o f Butte Creek Canyon. "Out Past before us, Why do we save /Y written by David Lowenthal and Marcus Binney helped me realize how im portantthe historical context o f this project is. And how careful we need to be when we make our plans for the future, lowenthals guote " What does our Tangible heritage signify tom us as individuals,communities,nations-’How can we make the best use o f it" summed up to be very careful when planning for tomorrow that yesterday is remembered. Considering the design o f the Butte Creek Trails Project I found some very thoughful insights. In the book Invisible Garden s pg. 2 0 written by Peter Walker a description was given o f Franklin Park in Boston designed by Fred nek Law Olmstead- The park "took advantage o f existing land forms,low hills and gentle valleys,that offered a range ofviews from broad and open to closed an intimate.'The Butte Creek Trails Project uses these thoughts in its design. Dan Kiley quoted later in Invisible Gardens pg.177 further added to my thoughts on proposing a design solution.'To stay atuned to the environment,to take a walk in the woods and not to trample on the f!ower,to simplify,to know when to do nothing-When not to alter a landscape", this was impor- ta n tto me in my design as I learned thru these readings and thru interviews from the com m unity to tread easy oin the land I feel strongly that we do need to design and plan, yet we need to work within the existing landscape. We need to appreciate this natural beauty and let The pre exisying landscape help us mold our design. From the Book landscape Ecology principals in Landscape Architecture and Land Use Planning pg.60 written by Wench E Dramstad, James D. Olson and Richard TT forma n the concept o f considering wildlife corridors blantly explained the need for wildlife to be able to move from one side ofthe roadway to another in a safe and sane manner,. I took this idea a step further and designed a Trailhead/wildlife condor to work together that would allow both pedestrian and w ild lif movement under an existing bridge. The Butte Creek Watershed Owners Manual compiled by The Butte Creek Watershed Conservancy was invaluable in my research. Gis maps covered the entire Butte Creek watershed- These maps were the project o fth e California Stae University o f Chico's Geography Department.The manual covered the entire watershed that encompasses 4 neighboring counties. Butte Creek Canyon was covered in detail. In conclusion I found numerous web sites as well as on each aspect o f my Trails Project.From this research i gathered my design implications. On the following tw o pages i have put together some o fth e information gathered from specific literature. Literature review
Fig. 14 bridge undercrossing
j**! rjr.' y x' HS-til ’■’m
i ^ 1? " s R ! i - . Underpass for wildlife movement Flg-17 underpass ^ *w 3 Landscape Ecology Principals in Landscape Architecture and Land Use Planning Wench E. DramstadJames D. Olson Richard T.T. Forman l # K g :
Design Implications
* Application and design at different scales * Keep impact to a minimum * Underpasses for wildl ife passageways ig.15,16 River stroll “This is a brilliant idea.In the absence of a * Looped trails grand metropark,use a trail system and give * Financial community involvement-"Buying in pieces to the local community to build” V ______y
Bob Fonte, Vital connections, Landscape Literature review Analysis
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal,begun as a proposed trade route on the Potomac river... .Now a peaceful river strolling trail
Design Implications
* Historic W ls
History as part o f Nature.. .Darwin Lambert National Parks in * Meditative areas Crisis National Parks and conservation Association 1982 * Natural trails
* Look at the entire watershed as important
* Use the land to teach
Fig. 19 springs Boiling Springs,Eagle Creek,Savage, Minnesota ANALYSIS
SITE IN V E N T O R Y bite Inventory
The first step in the angylsis procedure was to make an inventory o f what is in Butte Creek Canyon. What does it look like!> Types o f features. What is the fiber that makes up this canyon. A design implications list was generated from the inventory. This list simply states elements found while analysing the project area.These features will then be discussed in the analysis section o f this report.
Existing vegetation implications
Topography
Riparian waterways Volcanic surfaces,rolling hil!s,steep cliffs,bluffs,.....Blue land ownership oak,Live oak,Fir,Ponderosa Pine,Digger Pine,Manzanita,Star thistle,Deer brush, aguatic plants,wildflowers,..... firehouses,private Recreational facilities homes,Covered bridge,ranches, Butte Creek,Natural springs,,Beaver, Mountain Lions,Jackrabbits,Civvy cats, Existing nearby structures Fox, Bear, Rattlesnakes, ChinookSalmon, Steel head,..... Diversion Dam driveway,Private Roadways driveways.....condensed traffic,box canyon,fire danger,bicyclist,joggers,runners, automobiles/trucks.....dim street lighting,vapor lights, Wa I kways/Tra i I ways waterway, flood, high water, tubers, canoe's....difficult parking, dangerous curves, narrow,degradation to Parking creek side
Pedestrian and vehicular circulation
Population statistics txistmg vegetation
Foothill Chaparral Foothill chaparral occurs in scattered sites adjacent to the foothill woodland and is found at an elevation between 4 0 0 to 5 0 0 0 feet. It occurs on ridges and upper slopes where it is restricted to poor soilsThe foothill chaparral com m unity generally lacks trees and herbs, and is characterized by evergreen and sclerophyllous Chard-leaved) shrubs. Chaparral is a fire-adapted community. Fire plays tw o major roles. First, fire is important in replenishing plants dependent on peri odic fires to establish germination. Second, fire recycles nutrients Ci.e., rain leeching nutrients from charred wood) in this nutrient limited environment. In 1997 an extensive Forest fire ran through butte Creek Canyon burning a swath on the west banks o fth e canyon. Evidence o ftb is dramatic fire portrays itself a long the west banks o fth e canyons walls. Associated species include: whiteleaf common, and greenleaf manzanitas (Arctostaphylos viscid, A. manzznrtj, and A. patub respectively), chamise (Acjendstomd fyscicuktum), wedgeleafceanothus or buckbrush ( Ce^ noth us cunejtus), tobacco brush (C. velutinus), mountain whitethorn (C corejufetus) ocean spray CHo/octiscus discolor), scrub oak ( Quetcusberberdifolisi)
Blue Oak W ood la n4 Considerable stands o f blue oak woodland remain and are found in Butte CreekBlue OAc,(Quercus cjougfesii) znA gray pine (.Pinussjbintinzi) speckle the hillsides.Black oak ( Quetcus kelloggi) may be associated with the woodland in moist areas higher up on the canyon walls.
Valley Oak Riparian Forest/Wood land Valley oaks generally do not occur immediately along the banks o f rivers and streams. Instead, they stand atop terraces overlook ing the f!oodplain.Associates o fth e valley oak riparian forest include: common elderberry iSjmbucus mexicana), California wild grape •' C Vitis czlifornica), poison oak C Toxicodendron diversilobum), and western sycamore. •*
Blue Oak forest
The Area in the proposed site has a variety o f vegetation,as well as elevation and slope change .The picture here shows an older stand o f Native Blue oaks. This stand is located on the west side o f Butte Creek and is in the area o fth e proposed native trail. This land is owned by the Burea o f land Management.
The Native Trail will Have numerous obstacles that will need to be solved-The proposed site has a serious elevation gain located to the North and east end o fth e trail.approximatly 3 miles o fth e projected area is relativly nat with less than a 3% change o f grade. Lxisting vegetation
R.ip3mn Communities R.ip3n'3n forests are found at all elevations throughout Butte Creek wherever perennial or ephemeral watercourses flow. There are several types o f riparian communities within Butte Creek: wil low/aider, lodgepole pine, small amounts o f aspen/ cottonwood/Willow scrub, cottonwood forest, white alder forest, and valley oak woodland major floods in the past few years have reduced the numbers, but slowly they are regaining there foothold.
W illow Riparian Scrub W illow scrub may form dense thickets generally along sandy creek banks in Butte Creek Canyon.. A representative sample o f willow scrub is located in the Butte Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve . Willows may also form an understory in areas dominated by tree species.Sandbar willow (5. exigm) and Gooding's black willow (5. goo44ingii) are commonly found on the valley flo o r.
W etlands Butte Creek supports a variety o f natural wetlands, including freshwater marsh, slough, vernal pools. Human created wetlands stemming from irrigation ditches, flooded rice fields, canals, and reservoirs also are in evidence.The freshwater marshes may be found where there is standing or slow-moving shallow water. These areas include the banks o f reservoirs, rivers, creeks, sloughs, and ponds. Three layers o f plants can be found in or along the marshes or sloughs: free floating CZe/w^spp., duckweed), emergent C Typhjspp., cattail), and partially to fully submerged (Potzmogetonpectinjtus, fennel-leaved pondweed).Three genera are well represented; cattails C Typhd k tifo lia m b 77 cfomingensis), sedges C Carex amplifolia and C praegracilis), and rushes Uuncus ba ficu s va r mexicanus and J- oxymeHs). Hard-stemmed tule (Scitpus acutus) is often associated with the cattails, sedges and rushes. Cane C Ph rag mites australlis) and blue vervain ( Verbena hasta) also are present in small amounts.
Gravel and Sand Bars Gravel and/or sandbars form as a result o f the inherent flood dynamics o f a riparian system. Flood waters scour the banks gathering debris and sediment from one site and depositing them at another site. It is in these disturbed sites where early succession may begin. Native early succession or pioneering species whose seedlings may be found growing on sand and gravel bars include Fremont's cottonwood (Populus fremoniii), a variety o f willow (.Sah'x) species, and many native herbs. However, these newly created openings provide an opportunity for a variety o f non-native species to become established as well. Butte Creek has year round flows. December through April are the high flow months. The Creek is a spawning ground for The Chinook Salmon. Over the past 8 years the numberofspawing salmon has increased dramati cally to an estimated 22,000 in 2002. Chico State college has purchased 4 ,0 0 0 Feet o f Creek front prop erty to use as an ecological study area.There is an eco logical preserve owned by Department o f Fish and Game at the first mile ofthe project. Legal creek access is limited to just a few areas along the creek banks.The warm months bring an iflux o f visitors to the area The Butte Creek Advisory Commiittee , as well as The De partment o f Fish and Game control the Creek and the security involvrd. imi-J CA Dept, of Fish and Game Land Ownership and Land Vses The diversity in the terrain encompassed by the Butte Creek watershed is reflected by the diversity o f its land ownership and land California Department o f Fish and Game has the following policies regarding the use o f its property * Providing suitable habitat and living space for the preservation o f native species and endangered animals and plants. * Protecting surrounding agricultural lands from deprecating waterfowl by providing feeding and resting areas for waterfowl. 'Providing access to public lands for hunting and fishing opportunities. * Providing for multiple use o f the area when this use will not unduly interfere with the primary use o f the land- Private landowners have the greatest potential for improving habitat conditions and wildlife populations.Through puplic participation in land use planning, private owners can shape the future o f Butte Creek.The primary regulatory agency for private land use decision making in the Butte Creek Watershed, is Butte County. The policy making body for that agency is the Butte County Board o f Supervisors with advisory input from the Butte County Planning Commission. The California State University o f Chico since acquiring property has ensured that Butte Creek will be a learning environment for the community. Recreation FeciUtie 3D 3D O
Butte Creek Ecological Honey Run Covered Preserve , . me California Depart Bridge ment o f Fish and Game Built in 1896,the bridge is Ecological Reserve (285 acres) under the jurisdiction o f the provides an opportunity for Honey Run Bridge the investigation and devel Association.it is currently a opment o f channel and popular destination spot for Butte Cheek Watershed Recreational Facilities floodplains canyonvisitors
Recreational facilities are located throughout the watershed- California state University Recent efforts by the Butte Creek Watershed Conservancy, o f Chico Outdoor Educa Centerville Recreation and Historical Association, Honey Run tion center Covered Bridge Association, Butte Creek Volunteer Fire In late 1998, CSV, Chico acquired Department, 4-H and Paradise Parks and Recreation District ownership and management have led to the formation o f a Butte Creek Canyon Recreation responsibility for this property Advisory Committee. This Committee provides a forum for located in the lower canyon establishing priorities to address recreational concerns in the section o f Butte Creek. This 90+ Canyon. There is a general consensus among the Recreation acre parcel contains approxi Advisory Committee that more recreationists have a serious mately 4 ,0 0 0 feet o f creek downside Ci.e., traffic, trash, trespassing, etc.). However, the frontage that is a critical riparian need to manage for proper parking, trash facilities, and public i-flc+i-r-inmc A f h f p f f n v A -fv-i snlvp +hp Ai\pm a n f i-prt-paHnti in corridor utilized by adult spring- The rogdvvay along Butte Creek is narrow and dangerous for cyclist. Parking alongside the roadway is not allowed on the pavement. However, there are pullouts that can afford parking spaces and access to the creek.The Creek is a very popular destination spot for the numerous visitors. Late spring and early summer on Centerville road become a haven for Bicyclist, hikers, joggers and autom o biles. W ith the proxim ity o fth e University to the canyon,there are many students making there way to the cool respite that Butte Creek can offer.The weather at this tim e o fth e year is ideal for all types o f outdoor enthuasists.
With this combination o f visitors to the canyon, along with the increased number o f homeowners, it is becoming a battle ground for ideals. The canyon has two groups that are both working to protect Butte Creek from becoming overdeveloped- The Butte Creek Watershed was established to help protect the rights o fth e homeowners as well as the intergrity o f Butte Creek. A few years later Friends o f Butte Creek was established to enhance Butte % - w Creek's natural beauty and educate the com m unity as to the importance o f safeguarding the natural environment that the canyon offers to its dwellers,as well as the casual visitor to the canyon. mm*
Narrow Centerville road Truck shows how narrow road is Home ownership is also on the rise. Although there are a limited number o f buildable lots left.each one is being developed. There is a minumn acreage that has been established,hoping to protect the Canyon's intergrity. The projected population for Butte County shows that Butte General Statistics county will double in population in less than 40 years time. The design implications ofthese figures indicate that planning must be made now forthisfuture growth. Population
City of Chico 55,400 Butte County Chico Urban Area 84,950 Population Projections California Department of Finance, May 2000 Butte County 204,000 4 0 0 0 0 0 Projected annual growth rate 2% 3 5 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0
2 5 0 0 0 0 200000
1 5 0 0 0 0 100000
5 0 0 0 0
2 0 4 0 E le v a tio n 230 feet above sea level
'W eather Month Hi Low Rainfall Humidity @ 4pm January 54 36 5.32 59% April 73 45 1.87 35% June 97 60 .02 18% Design Implications September 79 47 1.35 31% *4 season trails Annual Average Rainfall = 26.04 (weather information based on a 30-year average) "Erosion control
"Plan for growth The weather patterns in Butte county fluculate greatly with each season. Rainfall is abundant in the winter season, tapering "Trail size o ff in the summer m onths.. The design implications here indicate a 4 season trail. Rainfall will discourage the casual "User numbers stroller from use. Impact on the trails in heavy rains could cause erosion problems. Snowfall is rare in winter. Extreme heat occurs in the summer periods. ANALYSIS
USER GROUP SURVEYS community burvey
■ under 20 ■ 21-30 D 31-40 □ 41-50 ■ 51-60 □ 61-70 16% ■ 71-up Age range o f survey participants
* Largest age range group 25% between the ages o f 50 -60 years o f age (14 O f Percent o f hikers that hike in Butte Creek 56 respondents) Canyon
'Average number o f years respondents have lived in Butte Creek canyon 12 years ( 32 O f 56 respondents) Number o f years that survey participants have *52% male and 48% female resided in Butte Creek Canyon resopondents (56 O f 56 respondents) Percentage o f respondents that ride bicycles 'Percenatge o f respondents that hike 73% (56 O f 56 respondents)
'percentage o f hikers that hike in Butte Creek Canyon 86% (35 O f 56 respon dents)
'Percenatge o f respondents that ride bicycles 68% (38 O f 56 respondents) Percentage o f responents that bicycle in Butte Creek Canyon 'Percentage o f bicyclist that tide in Butte Creek Canyon 57% (21 o f 56) respondents 73% Structured interview questions submitted to selected Structured interview process members o f Butte County Questions were asked to selcted commu ’ What do you th in k about a designed trailway in Butte Creek nity members regarding the Butte Creek Trails Canyon!1 Project. The questions and responses were asked ’Would a trail way be o f benifit to the community!* individually to each o fth e selected respondents. ’ Would you want access to the creek via the trails!* The questions were designed to have opened ’ What parking issues,ifany do you see!* ended responses. Thes responses were used to help ’What environmental issues would be involved in the pro generate design concepts and a final solution. The posed trail ways* selected members were all active in the commu ’What type ofuse\r do you feel would be attracted to the area;* nity. The respondents came from diverse back ’ What types o f design elements would you use on this grounds. Landscape Architects, The Butte Creek project!* Watershed Advisory Committee, Chico Veto ’ What types o f plant materials would you suggest? Bicycle Club,The Honey Run Bridge Association, ’ What types o f recreational facilities would you like to see the Centerville Historical Organization and De alongside the trailways project <* partment o f Fish and Game. ’ What suggetstions do you have for crossing existing road The responses were taped and then tabu ways? lated- Consideration was given to each ’ What safety issues do you forsee with this project? How response,looking for repeated responses indicated would you address them need-Design implications were gathered fi'om the ’ Would you want a multiuse or single track trail? survey results. The appendicies section in back lists questions and the responses recieved-
Structured interview response Strongly agree that a trail way would be o f benifit to the community
Very diverse feelings about access to the creek from the trails
Not a safe place to ride or walk in because ofthe proximity to automobiles
Native Plants only to be used in design
Mixed feelings about single or multi use trails
No use o f lights along trail way l l strongly agree \ z-Agree 3-unsure 4-uisagree D-Dtrongiy disagree Likert community survey (2) - Butte Creek Canyon trail-way would offer an pleasant recreational oppurtumty. II -Strongly agree I 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree (3) - Butte Creek Canyon trail-way would be a pleasant alternative to other trails in Butte County. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree [3-Unsure] 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree (4) - Butte Creek Canyon is currently a safe area to walk and hike. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree A random sample Likert (5)- Walking/ riding through proposed trail-way in Butte Creek Canyon would be enjoyable. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree questionnaire was used (£)- Butte Creek Canyon has a strong sense of community spirit. within the Butte County I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree c o m m u n ity . It was given (7)- Butte Creek Canyon currently has adequate recreation facilities. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree in 4 d iffe re n t areas o f {&)- A development of a trail-way would benefit the entire community of Butte County. Butte County. It was -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree distributed at different 9)- I would use the trail-way in Butte Creek Canyon. times o f the day. The Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree ( I 0)- I would recommend the trail-way in Butte Creek Canyon to others. questionnaire was given -Strongly agree] 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree to just one respondent at (II)- Native plants should be used in the trail-way project. a time, and no questions -Strongly agre^ 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree concerning the question I 2)- Picnic areas should be designed for the trail-way users. I -Strongly agree p-Agred 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree naire itself were answered (13)- The trailway should be a multi-use path. or responded to until I -Strongly agree 2-Agree ^3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree after the questionnaire ( I 4)- The design of a trail-way path should be permanent. -Strongly agree 12-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree was com plete.There was ( I 5)- A trail-way would increase creek usage in Butte Creek Canyon. not a time allotment -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree required for ( I 6)-There should be creek access throughout the trail in Butte Creek Canyon. completion.The high I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree ( I 7)- Parking currently is an issue in Butte Creek Canyon. lighted responses shown I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree at the right are the high ( I 6)- Parking will become an issue for trail-way users in Butte Creek Canyon. est response given to a I -Strongly agree 12-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree specific question. Total ( I 9)- There are enough trails in Butte Creek Canyon. I-Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure q4>isagree ] 5-Strongly disagree respondents to the ques (20) A proposed trailway should have lights for night time use. tionnaire numbered 56 I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree ^Strongly disagree i (2 I ) Butte Creek Canyon is currently a safe area to ride a bike in. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3 Unsure |4 Disagree I 5 Strongly disagree DESIGN IMPLICATIONS FROM COMMUNITY SURVEYS AND SELECTED QUESTIONNAIRES
The user group surveys and the selected structured interviews were a key element in focusing in on a design for the Butte Creek Trails Project. The random sample Likert survey used with the com m unity displayed some very strong desires. Firstly the consensus to continue with this project was clear. From 44 surveys collected 40 respondents said that yes a trail ways project would be o f be ni fit to the entire community. The remaining 4 respondents said they were unsure. 30 o f 44 respondents were bike riders and would like to see a bike trail. 38 o f 44 respondents were hikers and would ant a hiking trail in Butte Creek Canyon. The use o f lights was strong responded to with 41 O f 44 respondents clearly stateing they disagreed with the use o f lights on the trail way itself Community access to the Creek was somewhat ambilivent 28 o f 44 respondents were unsure about access while 7 were against acceess completely and the remaing 9 were for allowing access to the creek. The selected questions that were asked to com m unity members also gave clear ideas as to what they would like to see in the architecture o f this project. Responses to the idea o f a Trail way in Butte Creek canyon were "Excellent idea ", much neecjecj in the community'The proposed trails project recieved no negative responses to a trail way plan. The lighting issue was a vehement "no", while the issue o f creek access was mixed- From these duestionnaires the projects direction became clear. Yes a trailways project would be o f be n ifitto both the com m unity and the Canyon,and the project should be designed with minimal impact on the existing Landscape.
Design Implications
* Yes a trail way should be built * Yes a bike trail would be used * No lights on trailway * Questionable access to the creek ANALYSIS
CASE STUDIES FAiminGioQ
RIMER TRAIL ClirOR S I I 3 IUIT F I ia ilC T I l 1 URLI1 CTI1 5 ike trail. Bicycle trail along river The Towns o f Burlington, Canton, Farmington a net Simsbury, are building a 16 mile, multi-use trail known as the Farmington River Trail. The trail will be located on former railroad bed, the shoulder o f roads and other public land when necessary. The trail will serve walkers, runners, cyclists, in-line skaters and cross country skiers. For most o f its length, the trail will consist o f a ten fo o t wide, handicapped accessible, paved surface. When completed, the Farmington River Trail will connect with the Farmington Valley Greenway in both Farmington and Simsbury to form a 26 mile loop.
Design Implications
’Connectivity to the community
’proximity to roadway
'Shaded pathway
’ Paved surface
’ M ulti-ues trail
'Linear pathway i f you hyve ever walked across the Golden Gate bridge, flown a kite along the waterfront in Tiburon, in-line skated on the Foster City levee, hiked through the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, or windsurfed o ff Candlestick Point, you too have enjoyed the Bay Trail. The Bay Trail is a planned recre ational corridor that, when complete, will encircle San Francisco and San Pablo Bays with a continuous 4 0 0-m ile network o f bicycling and hiking trails. It will connect the shoreline o f all nine Bay Area counties, link 47 cities, and cross the m ajortoll bridges in the region. To date, approximately 210 miles o f the alignment— or slightly more than half the Bay Trail's ultimate length— has been completed-
Design implications
'Connectivity o f bicycle trails to neighboring communities
'Trail surfaces
'Diverse environmental species
Recreational cor-idor Lewis and Clark Trail
Big sky Montana Lewis and Calrk Trail
The Lewis and Clark Bicycle Trail's 3,975 miles cross nine mountain passes, pass through four national Design implications parks and monuments, overlook dozens o f rivers in addition to the Missouri and the Columbia, and 'Bridges promise you views o f bison, elk, and other wildlife. The Trail will be the best possible way to experience 'Sky views the m agnif cent landscapes witnessed by Lewis and Clar< all of the sense o f wonder, all o f the adven 'Connectivity ture, but a lot less inconvenience and hardship. 'Paved surface Research for the Trail was completed in the su m mer o f 2001. In October 2001, the Routes and 'Historical context Mapping department began the task of laying out the route and is now knee-deep in reviewing all the research notes and translating them into maps. They are on track to have maps printed this fall so trips can begin in the spring o f 2003. 13hoe U ty to sugar nine Point This 9 mile section o f paved multi-use bike trail runs along West Shore Boulevard and includes several highway crossings, 2 miles o f highway shoulder and residential streets. Some moderate grades are included- Scenic lake views. Provides access to Kilner Park, picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis, fishing, boating and campgrounds. Access to Ward and Blackwood Canyons await you at the end o f this trail
Truckee river path.
This 4 mile Section o f paved multi-use bike trail runs along the scenic Truckee River and is mostly flat with a few easy grades. The trail ehds at Midway Bridge where you will find the Western States Trailhead- The entrance to Squaw Valley is another 1/2 mile from River’s Edge Truckee, California Midway Bridge and access ru ns along the shoulder o f Highway 89. Construction o f a bypass to the highway is well under way and will make a beautiful addition when completed. This is a very popular, Design implications scenic path with the Truckee River lapping at the edges o f the paved trail. This trail Provides access to fishing, picnic areas and river rafting. * River trail From Squaw Valley there is a designated bike lane on Highway 89 to ’ paved bicycle path ’ Creek access West River Road in Truckee. ’ elevation changes ’ Picnic areas ’ Fishing Truckee, CgliTomig
Trails edge. Squaw Valley, California Design Implications TheWestem States Trail connects numerous trails in the "Connectivity to other trails Lake Tahoe region o f California to local trails, as well a s leading "Proximity to rivers edge into intra-state trails. The trail goes over a series o f steep vertical "Natural surface climbs in the Tahoe Basin. The Trail in winter is covered with "Wooded area snow and not passable in many sections. "Hiking trail "Seasonal trail B rig h t A n g e l Trail, Grand Canyon National Park
Along the Bright angel Trail located in the Grand Canyon, Arizona, there area series o f travel shelters that give hikers a respite from the outside elements. Shade is a welcome relief from the high temptatures that bake the canyon. The shelters are designed with native materials,easily found in the region. The idea o f using native materials is an im por tant design element for the Butte Creek Trails Project.
Page 106,107 parks and recre ation structures
Design implications
"Use o f native materials
"Shelter along trail way
"Natural trail surface
” Shade structure
"Rustic appearance Cape Croker Trail,Ontario Canada
Steep limestone clitfs surround Sydney Bay on the sacred land o f the Chippewas o f Nawash. This trail begins with recently developed 'Snake Trail Boardwalk', the wheelchair accessible portion o fth e trail. Exiting the boardwalk, follow the Bruce Trail markings towards the top o f the Escarpment. A blue blazed side trail completes the loop. The Trail way is considered easy to moderate walking.The surface is made o f a variety o f materials:Boardwalk,gravel and hardpacked surfaces.
Croker Trail,Canada
Design Implications *ADA Standards "Connectivity to Chico, and surrounding communities "Use o f boardwalk as design element over environmen ta lly sensitive areas. "Design multiple pathways "Use o f variety o f surfaces "difficulty o f trail Beaver River Canoe Route Ontario,Cana4a
The Bejvef- River Q n o e Route begins n o rth o f Kimberley, met winds its w$y through open jre js jn d 4 wooded stretches. W ildlife viewing opportunities 3 re excellent, js is fishing.
Beaver River Ttg il,Bruce Grey Ttails Ontario, Canada
Beaver River Trails
Design Implications
* water activities
* access from overlooks to water
Butte Cheek,Chico California Miami Florida River Trail
v o MLjmmm i
: i,?,' $■ E u
Design implications
'Bike separation from Automobile traffic 'Proxim ity oftraiis to water
'Overhead tree canopy 'Paved bicycle surface 'Connection to city PRELIMINARY DESIGN CONCEPTS
CONCEPT ONE ...... C A N O E C A M P C O N C EPT T W O ...... PICNIC D AY C A M P CONCEPT THREE...... RECREATIONAL TRAIL CONCEPT FOUR ...... BLOTE CREEK VIEW TRAIL r i^xi— l- i i - i *1 1/ m ■ Concept One Onoe Camp
This solution is designed to have all pathways and rercreational facilities together on the east side o f Butte Creek.The multi-use path is designed foi all types o f users: bicyclist, hikers, joggers and eguistrians.The trail is designed for overnight carry in and carry out campers.Restroom facilities would be sei up at designated campgrounds. Boating facilities for no n-m o to rized boats also s up at campgrounds. The primary aim o f the design is to keep all traffic from the Autom obile corridor on the west side c Butte Creek.
The benefits o f this design "Pedestrian traffic away from automobi traffic "Actual building o f project would not interfere with normal flow oftraffic "Camping and boating facilities
Potential problems o f this design are:
"Restroom sewage issues "A larger area ora sensitive ecological preserve would be disturbed ^ "Bicycle and pedestrian traffic is TrailhegdLoQtion to heavy o f a usage for the area. "Camping in area would bring in •^•Camping sites/boat facilities heavy influx o f visitors multi-use pathway "Parking could be an issue with Concept Two Picnic fay camp This solution is designed to have all pathways and rercreational facilities together on the south side o f Butte Creek No camping would be permited and no facilities would be set up for canoes. There would not be restroom facilities on any portion ofthe path way. Restrooms would be located at trail heads. The benefits o f this design ‘ Less impact no camping 'Designed Creek overtlooks for day usage 'Pedestrian traffic away from autom o bile traffic 'Actual building ofpiro\ec± would not interfere with normal flow oftraffi'c
Potential problems o f this design are: 'more usage with multi-use pathway would bring heavier flow o f traffic to the sensitive ecological areas y 'possible degradation o f paths with heavier bicycle and equestrian usage
Trail head Location
£ overlook location
multi-use pathway Concept Three Recreational Trjil
This solution is designed to offer both a bicycle path and a hiking trail separate from one another. The bicycle trail offers: approximately a 10 mile loop trail that circles the stream bed.. The bicycle trail runs along the west bank o f the road north towards the Honey Run Bridge Trail head, and then circles back towards town on the opposite side o f Butte creek. The hiking tra ils , a linear path approximately 4.5 miles in length. The native path runs on the south and east side o f Butte creek,below the bike path,and closer to the stream bed- Over looks will be designed simply with native materials, discouraging traffic from creek y ^ | access. This design encourages usage from ■ v town as a day trip as there is no trail head at the mouth o f the canyon The be ni fits o f this design "Circular loop for bicyclist | ) p * * Seperate paths for bicylist and hikers p ' Potential problems o f this design are: "No Southern Trail head "Extensive use ofecologically sensitive land * Creates more distraction for hikers caused by bicyclist nils*--
Hiking Trail
Bicycle Trail Concept four Butte Creek View Trail
This solution offers two distinct trailways. The hiking trail is placed on the west side o f Honey Run Road above Centerville road on the west side.The bicycle trail is designed to parallel Honey Run Road and Butte Creek. The re are trail heads located at both the North and South ends o fth e linear project. Overlooks above the road, designed with picnic facilities offer panoramic views o f the canyon and the creek. The benefits o f this design "Less o f an environmental impact on sensitive riparian areas ’ Easy access from trail heads at north and south ends oftrailways project ’ Separate paths for bicyclists and hikers ’ Homeowners have easy access Trail acts as a firebreak
Potential problems o f this design are: ’ Road crossing at north end could be dangerous for hikers ’ Proximity o f hiking trail to homeowners ’ Possible erosion to private lands
Butte Creek Eagle’s view Hiking Trail Bicycle Trail Q Trail Head FINAL SOLUTION Final solution Final diagrammatic solution Trailheads Bicycle Trail Native Trail Meeting at the Covered Bridg Overview o f project Future trail extensions Benefits o f the project
.... Final solution Compilation o f ideas from.
Butte Creek Watershed Advisory Department o f Fish and Game California State University o f Chico Chico Velo Bicycle Club Paradise Parks and Recreation Department Random community surveys Structured interviews Case studies Literature review Preliminary concepts
A "bicycle Trail" A "native Trail" Designed overlooks Use o f native materials Two trail heads with restroom facilities Outdoor education center access Parking Future trail extensions porates designs from the four ButfeOeek TwlwjysProject...diagrammatic Solution preliminary design concepts. The reasons for picking this solution were made by compiling to gether information gathered from the community through questionnaires and interviews. This design combines the surveys and interviews into a design that has been com m unity generated- The Project has tw o separatetrails. One trail proposed is a bicycle trail that parallels Centerville Road - The pathway would be designed for bicyclist to ride seperate o fth e roadway. Two overlooks with creek access would be avai la be to the riders. Parking would be available at both ends ofthe linear project. Restrooms would be available at each trail head-Across the creek on the east side would be a designed hiking trail. The" Native Trail" would take the hiker on a quieter journey through Butte Creek Canyon.The trail would be designed with two overlooks. The overlooks would also offer Creek access. Access to the "Native Trail" would be from Section shows bicycle and the trail heads located at both the ’Single track trails trail south and north ends o fth e trail. ’ Use o f existing roadway shoulders for bicycle path The northern trail head would ’ No camping,or restrooms on trails also have picnic facilities for day ’ Seperate trails, seperate experiences ues. ’ Creek access SKY VIEW OF THE TRAILS PROJECT Trail z Honey Run BridgeTYiTIhead connec tio n to Paradise
Trail connection to Chic
Butte Creek Rock Trailhead Overlook
Private homes Ia,
Native Trail loop
ative Trail
The Butte Creek Trails Project 'ey? I
Butte Cheek Rock Thai I Kegel location Honey Run Budge Thai I head location Two sepghgte thail heads a he planned foh the phoject. The Butte Cheek Rock Thgilhead would be located at the southehn edge o fth e phoposed phoject. This Thail head will have hesthoom facilities and tw o pahking aheas and posted signage displaying what you might see along the pathway. Signs will also be posted encouhaging the usehto "cahhy out what they have cghhied The location is just o ff the skyway. The skyway is the main access hoad to Pai-adise , Califohnia. Two sepehate pahking aheas wii offeh access to the trails from the nohth and sount sides o f The skyway. Access from the southehn pahking lo t would be by use < a designed thailway going undei-the existing budge that spans Butte Cheek. Honey/Run Budge Thgilhead would be located 5 miles north o fth e enthgnee to Butte Cheek Canyon, Justfcffthe skyway an north o fth e phoposed Butte Cheek Rock Thgilhead- This Thgilhead would 3Iso l^gve hesthooms,pahking,as well as picnic ghounds and access to the cheek. The bicycle section o f the Butte Creek Tr^ilwgys Project is designed for the bicyclist to ride to alongside the streambed, allowing excellent views o f Butte Creek. The designed over looks will allow the rider to stop and take in the scenic beauty o f the area, yet at the same time leave minimal impact to the highly sensitive riparian areas along the creek bank.The ovelooks are designed with the use o f native materials therby blending into surrounding countryside. The Bicycle pathway heading in a northly direction begins at the mouth o f Butte Creek Canyon. Riders from town can use this as an extension ofthe numerous bicycle paths that surround Chico. Or for the day rider to the Canyon entrance can begin at the proposed Butte Creek Rock Trail head which is just south o f Honey Run Road on the
Skyway. The bicycle path is approximate 5 miles in length in a one way direction ending at Bicycle riders on natural surface the bridge trail head- The charming turn o fth e century Honey Run Covered Bridge built in 1896 awaits the rider. Picnic areas,running water and restroom facilities as well as creek access are available.This trailhead which has parking can also be a starting point for the rider coming down from the town o f Paradise, or Canyon dwellers living further north in the canyon.The bicicyce pathway is designed to allow the rider to be o ffth e main road and free from gutomoble disturbance. Thusly allowing the rider peace o f mind from the heavy traffic that can flow thru the canyon,especially on weekends! The bicycle trail starts at the intersection o fth e Skyway and Centerville road- The road as it exists currently is narrow and dangerous for bicycle riders. This first section o fth e bicycle path has a very small elevation gain as you head deeper into Butte Creek Canyon (100 feet in 21/2 miles) the gain is barely noticeable.The bicyle trail is just o ff the roadway. There are homes in this part o fth e canyon, but there setback o ff the road • Riding the bicycle trail... so lu tio n
Honey Run Road
Butte Creek Rock Trail head
Bicycle trail overlook Centerville
A t the bicycle trail overlook, the bicyclist can take a break and realx. The Creek to your east is accesible from this overlook.Bicycle racks keep your bike safe as you sit and have lunch,or ifyour more adventurous go for a swim in the cool waters.The bicyle overlook will be designed from Native materials.. Shade from an overhaed tree canopy will help keep you cool from the hot summer sun. Native Trail Section
This final solution offeres a "Native trail " that is ['ust under 5 miles in lenght.The trail is located on the south and east sides o f Butte Creek running parrel I to the stream bed. The trail will meander along the stream banks,as well as take the hiker higher up for views o f the canyon Covered bridge as well as the creek itself The trail is designed with minimal impact to the existing riparian areas. O verlooks de signed will not designed for large num bers o f viewers, but rather just as a rest stop for the hardy hiker. Boulders will be used for resting, and the large leafy over head trees Can be used for shade on the hot summer days.Access to the Creek w ill be offered in signed areas. N ative plants discouraging the hiker from en “Native Trail” te rin g th e stream w ill be planted in areas Stairway ta creek needing to be protected. A t the north and south ends o f the Native trail signage will be used at the trail heads
Overlook encouraging the hiker to "carry in and out" what they have brought in.
Plan view native trail overlook Butte Creek Rock Trail head
This section o fth e "Native Trail" has an overlook to stop and picnic in. There are no facilities here. But shade from a overhead tree canopy keep the sun from scorching the hiker on a hot summer day.Tempatures in the summer can reach to over 100 degrees. Access to the creek to cool o ff your feet and swim is available.Remember to carry out what you have carried in.Signs posted at the overlook will remind the trail users.. Fishermen can use this snot while the fishinn season is onen r l r * ' - •!- < F v-f Rgilmad spur
utte Creek Rock Trailhegd C h ico
In this section ofthe Native Trail, you will encounter some elevation gain as you climb above the creek and get a bird's eys view o f Butte Creek. T bis location is accessible from either the Northern Trailhead (Honey Run Bridge) or The Butte Creek Rock Trailhead located just o ff the Skyway at the southern end o f this project.Tbe 'Native trail will be ADA accesible.At this point on the trail you will also have a series o f loop trails that are avail able to wander and enjoy the diverse vegetation at this elevation. — ft.ifc ■■ Bridge over ravine on Native Trail
Pa rad i
r Butte Ci-eek Rock Trail head C hico
This is the highest elevation on the Native Trail. There are tw o bridges that are designed to cross a steep ravine. From this viewpoint you can see Butte Creek below and the Honey Run Covered Bridge. The Bridges are built from stone from the mine tailings ofthe early hydraulic mines.From this vantage point you can seethe lights from Chico in the distance. The HoneynRun Historical Covered Brifdge was built in 1896. This Bridge is the site for the northern trail head o f the Trail ways Project.The Bridge is no longer used for automobile traffic, but as a picnic area for Canyon visitors.The bridge is under the jursidiction o f the Honey Run Bridge A ssociation and the Paradise parks and Recreration district. This Trail head will offer the visitor: picnic tables, restrooms, and water access. Parking is available on both the east and west ends o fth e Covered bridge. This trail head acts as a stopover for bicylist heading deeper into the canyon, or those riding to Paradise for an all day ride. Crossing through the Covered Bridge Hikers can enter the Native trail and continue back to Chico, or wait at the bridge for a pre - arranged ride back to town. vy VQ-I Vl^VV W l UU LLC V-fCCK Lenterville Trails Project Private homes Roa4 l 1 V- I VZ1
The Trgilwgys project has a natural extension into the town o f Chico, as well as an extension from the covered Bridge Trail head up and into Paradise.The city o f Chico is currently looking at approving an extension (note the yellow spot below) This bike path will connect the city o f chicoto the skyway. The skyway then connects to the proposed Butte Creek trail ways project. A t the northern end o f this project is the Honey Run Bridge Trailhead. From this point the main road splits in to tw o directions. A t this point the trail user can either return to Chico, or continue east up into Paradise, or north to Centerville, (note red circles below) The Butte Creek Trail Project offers a myriad o f opportunities to visitors to the site
* Fishermen can use both the bicycle trail as well as the Hiking trail to gain access to some fishing areas on the creek.
* Homeowners can use the bicycle trail as a safe means o f commuting to town.
* Nature lovers will find the Native trail to be o f special enjoyment, allowing the visitor to see and enjoy the canyon with out heavy impact on the area.
* Hikers and bikers will find the trails valuable alternatives to what is currently being offered in the area.
The trails are designed for all ages. The native trail can offer a guiet respite from the road,as well as a glimpse into the other "side o fth e creek"
The road racers can enjoy the bicycle trail as a connection into Paradise or Forest Ranch.
'Automobiles in the canyon will have less o f a worry from bicyclist riding on the side o fth e road- The bicycle trail will offer a separation o f the bicyclist from the automobile traffic.
* Creek users will have a safe legal entrance into the waters o f Butte Creek. Conclusions
The entire Butte Creek Watershed, not just the Canyon, presents a number o f challenging recreational issues. The watershed possesses qualities that make it enticing to recreational use: flowing water suitable for wading, swim ming, and whitewater floating, fishing, scenery, winter activities, riparian areas, hunting, trails, roads, and 3 generally natural or rural appearance. Population pressures are expected to increase in the future. Recreation has clearly been a concern for many years by residents, resource agencies, and law enforcement agencies. The focus o f much ofthe concern is the lower reaches o f the canyon area frequented by tubers, swimmers, kayakers, bicyclists, auto tourists, anglers, and other recreationists. The only developed public sites in the canyon are the Honey Run Covered Bridge and the Centerville School and Museum. There are many undeveloped creek access areas, some private and some public, but with no definition o f boundaries between private and public land. This has led to degradation ofthese undeveloped areas and numerous conflicts with private property owners. The increased population in Butte Creek Canyon, Paradise, and the Chico urban areas has increased the problems. Restrictions on recreation in Bidwell Park in Chico and on the Sacramento River, specifically parking and alcohol regulations, have also contributed to increased impacts on Butte Creek. Recreational facilities are located throughoutthe watershed but there is no comprehensive management or consideration for the impacts o f unmanaged recreation. Efforts by the Butte Creek Watershed Conservancy, Centerville Recreation and Historical Association, Honey Run Covered Bridge Association, Butte Creek Volunteer Fire Department, 4-H , and Paradise Parks and Recreation District are all helping to preserve ButteCreek Canyon's Integrity There is a general consensus among the involved agencies that with more recreationists there will be a a more serious downside (i.e., traffic, trash, trespassing, etc.). However, the need to manage for proper parking, trash facilities, and public restrooms drives the effort to address these issues. This project is an analysis o f a section o fth e Butte Creek watershed,specifically a five mile section located between the Skyway entrance to Butte Creek Canyon continuing to the Historic Honey Run Covered Bridge. In addition to the analysis o fth e project area. I have presented design concepts for a system o f bicycle and hiking trails into and through Butte Creek Canyon.I conclude the preliminary concepts with a design solution. Futher indept analysis o f land ownership issues with private as well as public landholders is necessary for a better understanding o fth is projects viability.Tbis solution is designed as a masterplan only.M y hopes would be to use this as a springboard for open discussion with the community as to the possibility to put this idea into action. REFERENCES
;e Miami Valley Bike Friendly Manual
>nnally Horstman Eugenia National Parks in Crisis. National Parks and conservation Association 1982 ban,I Mei, editor. Com m unity Trails Handbook. Chadds Ford, PA: Brandywine Conservancy, Environmental Management Center, 1997. ian, I Mei, editor. A Com m unity Resource Guide for Greenway Projects. Tallahassee. FL The Florida Department o f Environmental Protection, amstad, E Wenche, James D.Olson and Richard TT Forman Landscape Ecology Principals in Landscape Architecture and Land Use Planning Islar ess Washington D C 1996
nk, Charles A., Kristine Olka, and Robert M. Searns; Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Trails for the Twenty-First Century (Second Edition): Planning ;sign. and Management Manual for Multi-Use Trails. Washington, D.C.: Island Press, 2001
ink, Charles A. and Robert M. Searns. Greenways. A Guide to Planning. Design, and Development. Washington, DC: Island Press, The Conservatic md, 1993. reenbie, B Barrie Design for Diversity. Elsevier Scientific Publishing Company New your 1976
Dwenthal David and Marcus Binney. Our Past W hy do we s
icGie, F Joseph History o f Butte County Volume 11840-1919 Butte County Board o f Education 1982 icGie, F Joseph History o f Butte County V olum e21920-1980 Butte County Board o f Education 1982
Metropolitan Branch Trail Concept Plan. Washington, DC: Washington Area Bicyclist Association and the Coalition for the Metropolitan Branch >99. lational Park Service Tools and Strategies: Protecting the Landscape and Shaping Growth. Washington. D.C.: National Park Service.
ails-to-Trails Conservancy Improving Conditions for Bicycling and Walking. Washington. DC: Federal Highway Administration, January 1998.
1 11 - ID -i«-»A C i t-v'-t > im/icikU Tkf Mi+ Phf-ss C^mbudde Massachusetts 1994 Community questionaire
As a student a t the U niversity o f Arizona 5choot o f Landscape A rchitecture / am currently working on a thesis project. M y topic is a conceptual design o f a trail-w ay running from the Skyway to the C overed B ridge m B utte Creek Canyon, located m B utte County, California. In order to form ulate som e conceptual designs for m y thesis topic it is necessary to assess the opinions o f the com m unity. The inform ation collected will be com piled and used to generate design ideas. Participation is voluntary and greatly appreciated. Please circle the m ost appropriate response.
A g e R a n g e
Under 20 years 20-30 years 30-40 years 40-50 years 50-60 years 60-70 years 70-up
Female Male
Years residing in Butte County 0 1 -3 4 - 7 7-10 10-12 13-16 1 7 - 2 0 2 1 -3 0 30 or more years
Years residing in Butte Creek Canyon 0 1 -3 4 - 7 7-10 10-12 13-16 1 7 - 2 0 2 1-30 30 or more years
Do you live between the Skyway and the Covered bridge in Butte Creek Canyon ? Yes no
I am a bicycle rider Yes no
I have been riding bicycles in Butte Creek Canyon for number of years 0 1 -3 4 - 7 7-10 10-12 13-16 17-20 21 -30 30 or more years
I am a hiker? Yes no
I have been hiking in Butte Creek Canyon for number of years ^ 1 y /i 7 v in in, i o l l C | 7-20 2 I -30 30 or more years lom m unity quesrion^ire
Survey for individual Participants
What do you think about a designed trail-way in Butte Creek Canyon from the Skyway to the Covered Bridge?
Would a trail-way would be of benefit to the community?
Would you want access to the creek via the trail?
What parking issues if any would you see?
Do you feel there may be any environmental issues involved in a proposed trail-way? If so what measures might you suggest to address the issues?
What types of user would be attracted to the area?
What type/types of design elements would you think are appropriate to this area?
What types of plants would you suggest for such a project?
What types of recreational facilities would you like to see along the trail-way?
What suggestions might you have for crossing the existing roadways?
What safety issues do you foresee with this project, and how would you address them ?
Would you want to see a multi-use trail or a single track trail?
Any additional comments, Suggestions, Ideas? Community questionaire
Community Survey of Butte Creek Canyon thesis trail way project
( 1) - Butte Creek Canyon could benefit from a trail-way. I Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
(2) - Butte Creek Canyon trail-way would offer an pleasant recreational oppurtumty. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
(3) - Butte Creek Canyon trail-way would be a pleasant alternative to other trails in Butte County. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
(4) - Butte Creek Canyon is currently a safe area to walk and hike. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
(5) - Walking/ riding through proposed trail-way in Butte Creek Canyon would be enjoyable. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
(6) - Butte Creek Canyon has a strong sense of community spirit. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
(7) - Butte Creek Canyon currently has adeguate recreation facilities. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
{&)- A development of a trail-way would benefit the entire community of Butte County. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
(9)- I would use the trail-way in Butte Creek Canyon. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
( I 0)- I would recommend the trail-way in Butte Creek Canyon to others. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree I I)- Native plants should be used in the trail-way project. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I 2)- Picnic areas should be designed for the trail-way users. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I 3)- The trailway should be a multi-use path. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I 4)- The design of a trail-way path should be permanent. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I 5)- A trail-way would increase creek usage in Butte Creek Canyon. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I £)-There should be creek access throughout the trail in Butte Creek Canyon. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I 7)- Parking currently is an issue in Butte Creek Canyon. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I &)- Parking will become an issue for trail-way users in Butte Creek Canyon. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
I 9)- There are enough trails in Butte Creek Canyon. -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
20) A proposed trailway should have lights for night time use. 1 -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3-Unsure 4-Disagree 5-Strongly disagree
2 I) Butte Creek Canyon is currently a safe area to ride a bike in. I -Strongly agree 2-Agree 3 Unsure 4 Disagree 5 Strongly disagree 1-Strongly agree 2-agree 3-unsure 4-disagree 5-Strongly disagree Q iyESTIO N AIR E RESULTS 1 1,1,2,1,1,1,1,1,2,1,2,1,1,3,U ,2,2,3,1,1,1, 1,1,1,1,2,1,2,1,1,3,1,1,2,2,3,1,1,1,1,2,1,2
2 1,1,2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,2,2,1,3,1,1,2,1,2,2,1,1„2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,2,2,1,3,1,1,2,1,1,2,2,1,3,1
3 1,1,2,1,1,1,2,3,2,3,2,2,1,3,1,3,2,3,3,2,1,1, 1,2,1,1,1,2,3,2,3,2,2,1,3,1,3,3,2,3,3,2,1,1
4 3,3,3,3,3,4,3,4,3,3,3,3,4,3,4,3,3,2,3,3,2,4, 4,3^^,3,4,3,4,3,3^,3,3^,4,3,3,3,3,4,3,4
5 2,1,2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,2,1,1,3,1,2,3,1,1, 2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,2,1,1,3,1,2,1,1,3,1,2
6 2,1,2,3,2,2,1,2,2,3,2,3,2,3,1,3,3,3,3,3,1,2, 3,2,2,1,2,2,3,2,3,2,3,1,3,3,3,2,2,2,3,1,3,3
7 5,4,3,4,5,3,4,4,3,3,3,2,3,4,3,3,3,2,3,5, 4,3,4,5,3,4,4,3,3,3,2,3,4,3,3,3,2,3,4,3,3,3,2,2
8 3,2,3,2,1,1,1,3,3,3,2,1,2,3,1,1,1,2,3,2,1,1, 3,2,3,2,1,1,1,3,3,3,2,1,3,1,1,1,2,3,2,1,2,3
9 1,2,3,1,1,1,1,2,1,1,2,1,2,3,1,1,2,2,2,2,1,2,3,1,1,1,1,2,1,1,2,1,2,3,1,1,2,2,2,2,1,2,1,2,
10 1,2,2,1,1,1,1,2,1,1,2,1,2,3,1,1,2,2,2,2,1,1, 1,2,2,1,1,1,1,2,1,1,2,1,2,3,1,1,2,2,2,2,1,1
11 1,2,2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,2,1,2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1, 1,2,1,2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,2,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,2
12 4,3,2,1,1,1,4,2,3,1,2,1,3,4,1,1,4,2,4,2,2,1, 3,4,1,1,4,2,4,2,2,1,1,1,1,4,2,3,1,2,1,3,3,4
13 3,2,2,1,1,1,3,2,1,2,2,1,2,3,1,1,4,3,2,2,4,3, 3,2,2,1,1,1,3,2,1,2,2,1,2,3,1,1,4,3,2,4,2,3
14 2,2,2,1,3,1,2,3,3,3,3,2,1,3,1,3,4,3,5,4,2,1, 2,2,1,3,1,2,3,3,3,3,2,1,3,1,3,4,3,5,4,2,2,3
15 3,3,2,2,1,1,4,1,3,3,2,2,2,3,2,3,2,3,2,2,3,2, 3,2,2,1,1,4,1,3,3,2,2,2,3,2,3,2,3,2,2,3,2,4
16 4,5,3,1,3,1,2,3,1,1,2,2,4,3,1,1,2,3,2,2,2,2, 5,3,1,3,1,2,3,1,1,2,2,4,3,1,1,3,3,3,3,2,2,4
17 2,1,1,2,1,1,2,1,1,3,1,1,1,3,1,3,3,2,2,3,2,1, 2,1,1,2,1,1,2,1,1,3,1,1,1,3,1,3,3,2,2,3,2,1
18 3,2,2,2,1,1,4,1,2,3,2,1,2,3,1,3,2,1,1,3,2,1, 3,2,2,2,1,1,4,1,2,3,2,1,2,3,1,3,2,1,1,3,2,1
19 4,5,4,4,4,5,4,5,5,3,3,3,4,3,4,3,3,3,2,3,4,4, 4,5,4,4,4,5,4,5,5,3,3,3,4,3,4,3,3,3,2,3,4,5
20 4,3,4,4,3-,5,5,4,4,3,5,5,5,5,3,2,4,3,5,4,5,5, 4,3,4,4,3-,5,5,4,4,3,5,5,5,5,3,2,4,3,5,4,5 Community survey results (numbers)
Ages l/n 4 e r2 0 years -5 21-30-7 31-40-6 41-50-8 51-60-7 61- 70-6 71+-5
Points assigned to questions 1- Strongly agree 2 - agree 3- unsure/neutra! 4 - 4isagree 5 - 5trongly Disagree
Ordering system o f questionnaire C Response Categories)
Functional/transportation 1.4.5.7.12.13.16.17.18.20.21 Environmental 1.2.3.4.11.13.14.16.17.18.19.20 Socio-cultural 1,2,6,8,9,10,12,15 Financial/economics 1.7.11.12.13.14.16.19.20 Aesthetics 1.2.3.5.9.11.12.13.14.16.18.19.20.21 Community survey results (numbers) emales Males interviewed 21 23
'ears residing in Butte County )...... 7 -3...... 3 L-...... /I 1-10...... 4 1-13...... 5 4-16...... 5 7- 20...... 4 ’1-30...... 6 ;o+...... 6 Years residing in Butte Creek canvon 0...... 17 I- 3...... 4 4-7...... 2 8- 10...... 2 II- 14...... 2 15-19...... 4 20-24...... 5 25-30...... 5 30+...... 21
Bicycle rider YES...... 30 NO...... 14
Hiker
YES...... 38 NO ...... 6
Hiker in Butte Creek Canyon