The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2023-11-14 PSC Agenda PacketPage 1 of 2 Public Spaces Commission Special Meeting AGENDA Ukiah Valley Conference Center ♦ 200 South School St. ♦ Ukiah, CA 95482 or by Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 November 14, 2023 - 5:30 PM 1. ROLL CALL Commissioners: Elora Babbini, Vicki Bitonti-Brown, Megan Parker, Casey Thompson, Jose Scriven, Steven Ratley 2. INTRODUCTIONS 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 3.a. Approval of Minutes from July 11th 2023 - Regular Meeting Recommended Action: Attachments: 1. 2023-07-11 Minutes 3.b. Approval of Minutes from September 12th 2023 - Regular Meeting Recommended Action: Attachments: 1. 2023-9-12 Minutes 4. STAFF MEMBER PRESENTATIONS/REPORTS 4.a. Orr Creek Greenway - A Longstanding Vision Recommended Action: Accept the report and provide comments. Attachments: 1. Orr Creek Reaches Map 5. COMMISSIONERS REPORTS 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6.a. McGarvey Park Conceptual Landscape Plan Recommended Action: Review, discuss and provide comment. Attachments: 1. McGarvey Park_230829_draft Plans_Site Plan_Concepts 1 and 2 2. McGarvey Park_230829_draft Material and Plant Palette 3. McGarvey Park_230829_draft OPC_Concepts 1 and 2 Page 1 of 36 Page 2 of 2 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS The Public Spaces Commission (PSC) welcomes input from the audience that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the PSC. In order for everyone to be heard, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes per person and not more the (10) minutes per subject. The Brown Act regulations do not allow action to be taken on audience comments. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8.a. Receive Report and Provide Comment on a Draft Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan Recommended Action: Review, discuss, and provide comment on the draft Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan. Attachments: 1. WHWPA Management Plan DRAFT_11_9_23 9. ADJOURNMENT Please be advised that the City needs to be notified 72 hours in advance of a meeting if any specific accommodations or interpreter services are needed in order for you to attend. The City complies with ADA requirements and will attempt to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities upon request. Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the Public Spaces Commission after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at the main entrance of the City of Ukiah Annex, located at 411 W. Clay St., Ukiah, CA 95482, not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting set forth on this agenda. Page 2 of 36 AGENDA ITEM 3a Page 1 of 2 CITY OF UKIAH PUBLIC SPACES COMMISSION MINUTES Regular Meeting 411 W. Clay St- Conference Room #5 Ukiah, CA 95482 Virtual Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 July 11th, 2023 5:30 p.m. 1. ROLL CALL Public Spaces Commission met at a Regular Meeting on July 11th, 2023, having been legally noticed on July 7th, 2023. The meeting was held virtually at the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 and in person in Conference Room #5 at 411 W Clay, Ukiah Ca 95482. Commissioner Babbini called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. Roll was taken with the following Commissioners Present: Elora Babbini, Vicki Bitonti- Brown, Megan Parker, Casey Thompson, Rob Fitzsimmons, Joe Scriven. Commissioners Absent by Prearrangement: NONE. Staff Present: Neil Davis, Community Services Director and Araceli Sandoval, Community Services Administrative Assistant. 2. INTRODUCTIONS None Given 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approval of Minutes from June 13-Special Meeting Parker/Fitzsimmons to approve the Minutes of June 13th, 2023, a Special Meeting; as submitted. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Babbini, Bitonti-Brown, Parker, Thompson, Scriven, Fitzsimmons. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None 4. STAFF MEMBER PRESENTATIONS/REPORTS a. Discussion of Observatory Park Landscape Upgrade Presenter: Neil Davis Report was received. Public Comment: Feedback on potential issues with removing the fence on south end. Overall in favor of continuing planning for landscape upgrade. Motion/Second: Fitzsimmons/Parker to proceed planning for landscape upgrade. Motion carried by the following roll call votes: AYES: Babbini, Bitonti-Brown, Parker, Thompson, Fitzsimmons, and Scriven. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None 5. COMMISSIONER REPORTS Megan Parker – Commission Member 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Discussion and review of McGarvey Park Landscape Plan Process and Status Presenter: Neil Davis Page 3 of 36 Public Spaces Commission Minutes for July 11th, 2023 Continued: Page 2 of 2 Report was received. 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS No public comment was received. 8. NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion: Subjects for Upcoming Community Forums Suggestions for upcoming Community Forums were provided. 9. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:47 p.m. ________________________________ Araceli Sandoval, Public Spaces Commission Clerk Page 4 of 36 AGENDA ITEM 3a Page 1 of 2 Public Spaces Commission Regular Meeting MINUTES Civic Center Annex ♦ 411 W. Clay St., Conf. RM #5 ♦ Ukiah, CA 95482 Virtual Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 September 12, 2023 - 5:30 PM 1. ROLL CALL Public Spaces Commission met at a Regular Meeting on September 12th, 2023, having been legally noticed on September 8th, 2023. The meeting was held virtually at the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 and in person in Conference Room #5 at 411 W Clay, Ukiah Ca 95482. The meeting was adjourned due to a lack of quorum. Commissioners Present: Vicki Bitonti-Brown and Joe Scriven. Commissioners Absent by Prearrangement: Megan Parker. Staff Present: Neil Davis, Community Services Director and Araceli Sandoval, Community Services Administrative Assistant. 2. INTRODUCTIONS None Given. 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approval of the Minutes for the July 11th 2023 – Regular Meeting. No Quorum-move to next meeting. 4. STAFF MEMBER PRESENTATIONS/REPORTS a. Report on Progress of Plans for the Riverside Park Regeneration Project No Quorum-move to next meeting. b. Discussion of Trails and Non-Motorized Path Plans for the City of Ukiah No Quorum-move to next meeting. c. Discussion of Future Park and Recreation Uses of the City Owned Property on Norgard Lane. No Quorum-move to next meeting. 5. COMMISSIONERS REPORTS None Given. 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Observatory Park Landscape Update Page 5 of 36 Public Spaces Commission Minutes for September 11, 2023, Continued: Page 2 of 2 No Quorum-move to next meeting. 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS None Given. 8. NEW BUSINESS 9. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m. due to a lack of quorum. ____________________________________________ Araceli Sandoval, Public Spaces Commission Clerk Page 6 of 36 Page 1 of 2 Agenda Item No: 4.a. MEETING DATE/TIME: 11/14/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2896 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: Orr Creek Greenway - A Longstanding Vision DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: 1. Orr Creek Reaches Map Summary: Orr Creek Greenway is a concept that has been in public discussion for fifty years. Due to political and financial constraints little progress has been made. Background: Orr Creek (alternatively “Orrs” Creek) is a major tributary and salmon carrying tributary to the Russian River. The Creek originates to the east of Ukiah and winds for over five miles before reaching Low Gap Park. The creek runs through Low Gap Park, then along the edge of the Golf Course before reaching the center of Ukiah. Though channelized, the Creek is rarely underground even through the most densely developed neighborhoods. It crosses under the freeway, runs along the softball complex and finally reaches the Russian River. Modern standards of creek care were not historically valued. Property lines were frequently drawn with the center line of the creek as a boundary. Properties were built as close as possible to the creek and questionable approaches to streambank stabilization, including using old cars and tires as stabilizers, were allowed. The creek was realigned in multiple places to facilitate development without thoughtful consideration of the environmental impacts. As far back as the 1970’s community members have suggested the environmental, recreational, and health benefits of creating a trail along the creek and performing creek restoration. In the last 10 years the concept has evolved to envision a “greenway” style linear park including a trail and amenities. Short sections of trail along the corridor have been established, some formally and some informally. A formal, permeably paved section of trail exists between Orchard Ave and Orr St. A formal dirt path exists on City property between Oak St and Brush. In 2022 this site and the site between Orchard and Orr St were designated as City Parks. The path continues to the east informally across Ukiah Unified School District property from Brush St to the County-owned properties along Low Gap Road. Discussion: The creek can be divided into sections (reaches) to facilitate discussion. City staff have described the creek from Low Gap Park to the Russian River in five “reaches” (Attachment 1). Reach 1 extends from the Russian River to the east side of Highway 101. Reach 2 extends from the East side of Highway 101 to Oak St. Reach 3 extends from Oak St to the Railroad corridor, and reach four extends from Oak St to the east side of Low Gap Park. Reach five extends from the East side of Low Gap Park to the headwaters. Completing and or improving any portion of the Greenway will present some degree of challenge. However, some portions will be much easier, while some will be much more difficult with technical, logistical, financial, and political issues weighing on the project to varying degrees based on the location. The easiest section to build and improve would be from the Russian River to the west side of Highway 101. However, this would also be the least useful section. Improving this section and establishing a path, without a Page 7 of 36 Page 2 of 2 consistent user group, could lead to an increase in homeless-related problems in the area. Although there are many examples of trails using creek highway under-passes, this requires coordination with Cal Trans and would be technically and economically challenging, likely requiring long-term and consistent or relentless effort to achieve. The Second reach of the creek from the Highway to the railroad corridor has an existing path with relatively wide setbacks on both sides of the creek between Orchard Ave and Orr St. The setbacks are heavily infiltrated with non- native species, a man-made and questionable berm is along the creek, and the hidden area behind the berm is a preferred spot for homeless camping. Streets and Parks crews work with the Police to routinely roust illegal campers from the creek and remove garbage, but it is an ongoing effort to keep the area clear. The area from Orr St to the railroad corridor is on private property. The northern bank of the creek has the most room for a trail, but the property owners (Ford St Project) are not open at this time to allowing passage. The section from the railroad corridor to Oak St is the most densely populated area, is on private property, and has minimal creek setbacks. Or these reasons, this section provides the most daunting challenges to the project concept. However, from Oak St to the west side of Low Gap Park is both a desirable area for a linear park and trail and is relatively feasible. As stated earlier, there is existing path for much of this section. Funding is the only significant barrier to improving the existing path. From the County property to Low Gap Park, there is no room for trail on the north side of the creek, which necessitates locating the path on the edge of the golf course. There are many examples of trail along golf courses and technically this is workable solution. There may, however, be user opposition to locating the trail here. Grant funding for a project like the Orr Creek Greenway should be relatively available. Having a concept plan in place, and strong community support for the project will be necessary to move the project forward. Recommended Action: Accept the report and provide comments. Page 8 of 36 Page 9 of 36 Page 1 of 1 Agenda Item No: 6.a. MEETING DATE/TIME: 11/14/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2898 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: McGarvey Park Conceptual Landscape Plan DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: 1.McGarvey Park_230829_draft Plans_Site Plan_Concepts 1 and 2 2.McGarvey Park_230829_draft Material and Plant Palette 3.McGarvey Park_230829_draft OPC_Concepts 1 and 2 Summary: The Public Spaces Commission will review, discuss, and provide comment on the draft conceptual plans for McGarvey Park Landscaping. Background: The City of Ukiah’s 43,000 sf McGarvey Park occupies the block surrounded by W Clay St, S Dora Ave, W Stephenson St and W Bush St. The property was donated by Judge McGarvey in 1888. The park’s traditional landscaping is overgrown with older plants, its paths are deteriorated with root humps, the irrigation needs replacement, and its central feature is a dilapidated and non-functional fountain. Despite these many challenges, the location, plentiful shade, and abundant benches, along with some interesting flowering trees makes the park a popular stopping point. The park is actively and frequently used as a location for photo portraits as well as by picnickers, dog walkers and people looking for a comfortable place to rest. The City of Ukiah contracted with GSM Landscape Architects Inc to prepare a conceptual landscape design with enough detail to support grant applications for the installation of the plan. GSM Landscape Architects met with City staff at McGarvey Park in the late Spring for a site visit and discussion of park maintenance needs. The Public Spaces Commission hosted a Community Forum on May 9th in which GSM consultants led a community input session and discussion of possible landscaping options. Discussion: GSM Landscaping reviewed the comments from the May 9th meeting and incorporated them into two alternative conceptual designs (Attachment 1), Material and Plant Palette recommendations (Attachment 2), and a Preliminary Opinion of Probable Costs (Attachment 3) for community and Commission review. Staff seeks public and Commissioner comment on these plans. Recommended Action: Review, discuss and provide comment. Page 10 of 36 M M M M M STEPHENSON STREET CLAY STREET DO R A S T R E E T BU S H S T R E E T A 1" = 20' 20' GRAPHIC SCALE IN FEET 0 40' M C G A R V E Y P A R K C I T Y O F U K I A H S I T E P L A N THIS PLAN IS PRELIMINARY AND NOT INTENDED FOR CONSTRUCTION. GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR, OR LIABLE FOR, UNAUTHORIZED CHANGES TO OR USES OF THESE PLANS. ALL CHANGES TO THE PLANS MUST BE IN WRITING AND MUST BE APPROVED BY GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. THIS DOCUMENT AND THE IDEAS INCORPORATED HEREIN AS AN INSTRUMENT OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, IS THE PROPERTY OF GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. AND IS NOT TO BE USED IN WHOLE OR IN PART FOR ANY OTHER PROJECT, WITHOUT THE WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION OF GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. c COPYRIGHT 2023. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. A U G U S T , 2 0 2 3landscape architects, inc. www.gsmlainc.com EXISTING PARK TREES Crepe Myrtle Coast Redwood Deodar Cedar Dogwood Eastern Redbud Evergreen Pear Japanese Maple Mock Orange Norway Spruce Pin Oak Privet Red Maple Southern Magnolia Strawberry Tree Sweet Gum Valley Oak LEGEND - EXISTING CONDITIONS Existing tree to remain Existing tree to be removed - unhealthy, poor form, over-shaded and competition with neighboring trees Existing Fountain Existing Bench Existing Memorial Bench Existing Area with bicycle rack, drinking fountain, trash and recycling toters, dog waste station, and irrigation controller Existing Park Sign Existing Boulders Existing Rotary Little Library Existing Power Pole Existing Sign Existing Ukiah Trails Route Marker Existing Irrigation Backflow Preventor Existing Water Meter Existing Concrete Pavement Existing Asphalt Pavement Existing Turf Grass Existing Shrub Planting M A Page 11 of 36 STEPHENSON STREET CLAY STREET DO R A S T R E E T BU S H S T R E E T 1" = 20' 20' GRAPHIC SCALE IN FEET 0 40' M C G A R V E Y P A R K C I T Y O F U K I A H D R A F T L A N D S C A P E P L A N - C O N C E P T 1 THIS PLAN IS PRELIMINARY AND NOT INTENDED FOR CONSTRUCTION. GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR, OR LIABLE FOR, UNAUTHORIZED CHANGES TO OR USES OF THESE PLANS. ALL CHANGES TO THE PLANS MUST BE IN WRITING AND MUST BE APPROVED BY GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. THIS DOCUMENT AND THE IDEAS INCORPORATED HEREIN AS AN INSTRUMENT OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, IS THE PROPERTY OF GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. AND IS NOT TO BE USED IN WHOLE OR IN PART FOR ANY OTHER PROJECT, WITHOUT THE WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION OF GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. c COPYRIGHT 2023. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. A U G U S T , 2 0 2 3landscape architects, inc. www.gsmlainc.com LEGEND Existing Tree to remain Boulders Power Pole Sign Ukiah Trails Route Marker Irrigation Backflow Preventor Water Meter Concrete Pavement Turf Grass KEY NOTES Stone seat walls Red Maple Trees Sango Kaku Japanese Maple Trees Flowering/accent trees Renovate grass and install new irrigation for improved use and better maintenance access, typical New plantings and landscape boulders Tree with circular mulch area, typical Bottle filler/double tiered drinking fountain Memorial bench Trash, recycling and pet waste station Bike rack Maintenance access with removable bollards Relocated or new irrigation controller 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 New park sign Canopy shade trees with landscaping and mounds Central gathering space/remove fountain Repurposed or new memorial benches on paths New plantings and landscape boulders 12 13 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 10 11 12 13 2 4 New pathway, typical Page 12 of 36 STEPHENSON STREET CLAY STREET DO R A S T R E E T BU S H S T R E E T 1" = 20' 20' GRAPHIC SCALE IN FEET 0 40' M C G A R V E Y P A R K C I T Y O F U K I A H D R A F T L A N D S C A P E P L A N - C O N C E P T 2 THIS PLAN IS PRELIMINARY AND NOT INTENDED FOR CONSTRUCTION. GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR, OR LIABLE FOR, UNAUTHORIZED CHANGES TO OR USES OF THESE PLANS. ALL CHANGES TO THE PLANS MUST BE IN WRITING AND MUST BE APPROVED BY GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. THIS DOCUMENT AND THE IDEAS INCORPORATED HEREIN AS AN INSTRUMENT OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, IS THE PROPERTY OF GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. AND IS NOT TO BE USED IN WHOLE OR IN PART FOR ANY OTHER PROJECT, WITHOUT THE WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION OF GSM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC. c COPYRIGHT 2023. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. A U G U S T , 2 0 2 3landscape architects, inc. www.gsmlainc.com LEGEND Existing Tree to remain Boulders Power Pole Sign Ukiah Trails Route Marker Irrigation Backflow Preventor Water Meter Concrete Pavement Turf Grass KEY NOTES New plantings and landscape boulders Renovate grass and install new irrigation for improved use and better maintenance access, typical Tree with circular mulch area, typical Bottle filler/double tiered drinking fountain Memorial bench Trash, recycling and pet waste station Bike rack Maintenance access with removable bollards Relocated or new irrigation controller 1 2 3 4 New park sign Relocated fountain or new sculptural pieces Red Maple tree grove with mounded hummingbird garden Small children's play area Multi-use turf oval, centered within park Repurposed or new memorial benches on pad next to paths New plantings and landscape boulders 5 6 7 8 9 11 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 5 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 7 8 9 New pathway, typical Page 13 of 36 M c G A R V E Y P A R K C I T Y O F U K I A H , C A Material and Plant Palette Recommendations A U G U S T 2 0 2 3 GSM landscape architects, inc. 1700 Soscol Ave. Suite 23 Napa, CA 94559 707.255.4630 www.gsmlainc.com Permeable paver path with concrete edge PAVEMENT SITE MATERIALS Concrete pavers with color variation Full range bluestone path Bluestone pavers with concrete band Integrally colored concrete path Integrally colored concrete path and permeable paving Concrete pavers Stablized decomposed granite Concrete pavers, integrally colored concrete and stone seat wall Stone seat walls and earth mounding Mossy landscape boulder Natural bark mulch McGarvey Park memorial bench City of Ukiah park sign Bottle ﬁ ller with two tier drinking and pet fountain Children’s play area Culture-inspired art Interactive-inspired art HIstoric fountain base and/or drinking fountain repurposed as art Nature-inspired artCulture-inspired art Interactive-inspired art Nature-inspired art Acer palmatum ‘Sango Kaku’ Coral Bark Maple Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’ Bloodgood Japanese Maple Acer r. ‘October Glory’ October Glory Maple Cercis canadensis Eastern Redbud Quercus wislizeni Interior Live Oak Ulmus parvifolia ‘Drake’ Drake Elm Carex divulsa Berkeley Sedge Lomandra longifolia Lomadra Grass Sesleria autumnalis Autumn Moor Grass Achillea millefolium White Yarrow Achillea millefolium ‘Paprika’ Paprika Yarrow Asclepias californica Milkweed Heuchera maxima Island Alum Root Iris douglasiana Douglas Iris Nandina domestica ‘Firepower’ Firepower Heavenly Bamboo Penstemon h. ‘Margarita BOP’ Margarita Bop Penstemon Rhamnus c. ‘Mound San Bruno’ Mound San Bruno Coffeeberry Ribes sanguineum Red Flowering Current Salvia spathaceae Hummingbird Sage Epilobium californica California Fuchsia Polystichum munitum Western Sword Fern Woodwardia ﬁ mbriata Giant Chain Fern Arctostaphylos uva-usi Point Reyes Manzanita Baccharis pilularis ‘Pigeon Point’ Dwarf Coyote Bush Berberis repens Creeping Mahonia Ceanothus ‘Yankee Point’ Yankee Point Ceanothus Ceanothus m. ‘Valley Violet’ Valley Violet Ceanothus Children’s play area Children’s play area Children’s play area ART Koelreuteria paniculata Goldenrain Tree CHILDRENS PLAY AREA TREES GRASSES SHRUBS AND GROUNDCOVER Interactive-inspired art Page 14 of 36 City of Ukiah August, 2023 Preliminary Opinion of Probable Costs McGarvey Park Concept 1 Item Total SITE PREPARATION AND DEMOLITION 1 Mobilization 2 Clearing and grubbing 3 Remove asphalt path 4 Uninstall existing site elements that will be relocated 5 Construction fencing Subtotal Site Preparation and Demolition 100,779.00$ SITE WORK 6 Grading at mounds 7 Path 8 Path - Specialty Subtotal Site Work 166,165.00$ SITE ELEMENTS 9 Boulders 10 Drinking fountain with bottle filler 11 New park sign installation 12 Pet waste containers 13 Relocated benches 14 Relocated bike rack 15 Removable bollards 16 Stone seat wall Subtotal Site Elements 117,200.00$ PLANTING AND IRRIGATION 17 Soil preparation 18 Fine grading 19 Irrigation system with new controller 20 Mulch 21 Root barrier 22 Shrubs and groundcover in planting areas 23 Sod 24 Trees (24" box) Subtotal Planting and Irrigation 347,901.81$ MAINTENANCE PERIOD 25 90-day Subtotal Maintenance Period 10,000.00$ PROJECT SUBTOTAL 742,045.81$ PROJECT CONTINGENCY 20%148,409.16$ PROJECT TOTAL 890,454.97$ Notes: This opinion of probable cost has been prepared to assist the City with determining anticipated costs associated with the construction of elements shown in Concept 1 prepared by GSM landscape architects, inc. (GSM). This was developed on the basis of professional judgment/experience. It assumes that construction will begin in 2024 when soils are at optimal soil moisture for grading. This cost opinion does not include figures for tree removal or root grubbing, new lighting, park signage, new litter or recycling containers, bike racks, benches, construction plans or bid documents, inspections, permits, SWPPP, environmental/archaeological review, mitigation measures, bidding, construction administration services, temporary construction facilities, or special structural or geotechnical processes if required. etc. GSM does not have control over the cost or availability of labor, equipment, materials, market conditions, or the Contractor's method of pricing. GSM landscape architects, inc. makes no warranty, express or implied, that the bids for work associated with this project will not vary from our opinion of probable cost. GSM landscape architects, inc. • Phone 707 255 4630 • www.gsmlainc.com 1 of 2 Page 15 of 36 City of Ukiah August, 2023 Preliminary Opinion of Probable Costs McGarvey Park Concept 2 Item Total SITE PREPARATION AND DEMOLITION 1 Mobilization 2 Clearing and grubbing 3 Remove asphalt path 4 Uninstall existing site elements that will be relocated 5 Construction fencing Subtotal Site Preparation and Demolition 100,779.00$ SITE WORK 6 Grading at mounds 7 Path Subtotal Site Work 114,830.00$ SITE ELEMENTS 8 Boulders 9 Children's play area 10 Drinking fountain with bottle filler 11 New park sign installation 12 Pet waste containers 13 Public art 14 Relocated benches 15 Relocated bike rack 16 Removable bollards Subtotal Site Elements 271,200.00$ PLANTING AND IRRIGATION 17 Soil preparation 18 Fine grading 19 Irrigation system with new controller 20 Mulch 21 Root barrier 22 Shrubs and groundcover in planting areas 23 Sod 24 Trees (24" box) Subtotal Planting and Irrigation 351,642.26$ MAINTENANCE PERIOD 25 90-day Subtotal Maintenance Period 10,000.00$ PROJECT SUBTOTAL 848,451.26$ PROJECT CONTINGENCY 20%169,690.25$ PROJECT TOTAL 1,018,141.51$ Notes: This opinion of probable cost has been prepared to assist the City with determining anticipated costs associated with the construction of elements shown in Concept 2 prepared by GSM landscape architects, inc. (GSM). This was developed on the basis of professional judgment/experience. It assumes that construction will begin in 2024 when soils are at optimal soil moisture for grading. This cost opinion does not include figures for tree removal or root grubbing, new lighting, park signage, new litter or recycling containers, bike racks, benches, construction plans or bid documents, inspections, permits, SWPPP, environmental/archaeological review, mitigation measures, bidding, construction administration services, temporary construction facilities, or special structural or geotechnical processes if required. etc. GSM does not have control over the cost or availability of labor, equipment, materials, market conditions, or the Contractor's method of pricing. GSM landscape architects, inc. makes no warranty, express or implied, that the bids for work associated with this project will not vary from our opinion of probable cost. GSM landscape architects, inc. • Phone 707 255 4630 • www.gsmlainc.com 2 of 2 Page 16 of 36 Page 1 of 2 Agenda Item No: 8.a. MEETING DATE/TIME: 11/14/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2911 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: Receive Report and Provide Comment on a Draft Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: None Summary: Review, discuss, and provide comment on the draft Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan. Background: The City Council’s strategic plan and the City's Climate Initiatives include a number of goals that support the importance of open space conservation (ie., Climate Initiative 4.b. Maintain wild lands). The Council's Strategic Plan includes a goal to “Enhance Our Neighborhoods” establishing goal to “preserve, conserve, and protect the natural resources/features of the Ukiah Valley and open space.” In pursuit of these goals, the City recently acquired the Western Hills Watershed Protection Area (WHWPA) which comprises 763+/- acres and lies in the hills west of Ukiah Valley. This land comprises a significant watershed for the valley and serves as a valuable habitat refuge for wildlife, as well as providing potential wildfire mitigation opportunities. For decades, conserving the hills to the west of Ukiah has been discussed by the community. Discussions typically focused on the biological and aesthetic values the WHWPA would add, as forested and undeveloped land. The Ukiah City Council’s Strategic Plan describes a goal of promoting the protection of Ukiah’s western wildland urban interface to restore and conserve forests and stream ecosystems, provide large-scale wildfire mitigation, and protect the Upper Russian River Watershed to benefit fish and wildlife as well as the greater Ukiah community. Further, the western hills are seen to hold the potential for water storage and power generation. Funding for the acquisition of this property was secured from the City of Ukiah’s Electric Utility Department, the Water Resources Department, and the General Fund. With the acquisition of the property comes the responsibility of management. As a first step a Baseline Assessment was prepared, reviewed by the Public Spaces Commission, and accepted as complete by the City Council on August 2nd, 2023. Discussion: Based on the Baseline Assessment, staff have prepared a draft management plan for the WHWPA. “The Management Plan defines the priorities and goals for the WHWPA to ensure continuity in management decision making. Once approved by the Ukiah City Council, the overarching goals of property ownership should rarely if ever change. This plan is further intended to guide staff in day-to-day activities and to provide criteria for the operations, maintenance, and management of the Preserve. In keeping with the primary goals of protecting the WHWPA’s scenic resources and biodiversity, soil and aquatic resources, and ecological functions, most of the management actions should either directly or indirectly implement the natural resources goals.” “The Management Plan was designed to protect the conservation values of the WHWPA while providing the opportunity for the future possibility for public recreational and educational opportunities that are compatible Page 17 of 36 Page 2 of 2 with protection of natural resources. It provides guidance for balancing multiple goals.” “The actions and policies of the Management Plan are organized into four resource/use categories with multiple topic areas within each: Resource Management, Fire Risk Abatement, and Public Uses and Engagement.” The Draft plan includes three alternative vision statements for PSC consideration. Staff request comment on the vision statements and the overall plan. Recommended Action: Review, discuss, and provide comment on the draft Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan. Page 18 of 36 City of Ukiah 300 Seminary Drive Ukiah, CA 95482 August 2023 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan January 2024 DRAFT Page 19 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 1 Project Location The Western Hills Watershed Protection Area (WHWPA) is located in eastern Mendocino County in the foothills rising from the Ukiah Valley in the Northern Coast Mountain Range. From north to south, the WHWPA ranges between a tenth of a mile to 1.3 miles wide and spans 1.8 miles from east to west for a total of ~ 660 acres. The WHWPA extends from the valley floor at 760 feet to its highest point at Lookout Peak at 2,726 feet in elevation. Overall, the WHWPA is steep with slopes ranging from 30-70 percent. The vegetation is overgrown in some locations and wildfire has been suppressed for decades. Looking to the west from the highest ridge, views of Pine Mountain and the headwaters of Robinson Creek can be seen. Looking to the east provides views of Lake Mendocino, the Ukiah Valley, and the mountain tops of Sanhedrin, Hull, Snow, Red, and Konocti Mountains. Two forks of Doolin Creek flow east out of the central and southern parts of the WHWPA. The headwaters of Gibson Creek lie in the northwesternmost corner of the WHWPA and an unnamed creek in the northeastern parcel of the WHWPA flows east toward Hillcrest Avenue. WHWPA Management Plan This Management Plan defines the priorities and goals for the WHWPA to ensure continuity in management decision making. Once approved by the Ukiah City Council, the overarching goals of property ownership should rarely if ever change. This plan is further intended to guide staff in day-to- day activities and to provide criteria for the operations, maintenance, and management of the Preserve. In keeping with the primary goals of protecting the WHWPA’s scenic resources and biodiversity, soil and aquatic resources, and ecological functions, most of the management actions should either directly or indirectly implement the natural resources goals. The Management Plan was designed to protect the conservation values of the WHWPA while providing the opportunity for the future development of recreational, educational, and utility support opportunities that are compatible with protection of natural resources. This document is intended to provide guidance for balancing multiple goals. The actions and policies of the Management Plan are organized into three categories with multiple topic areas within each: Resource Preservation, Fire Risk Abatement, and Public Uses and Access. Page 20 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 2 Purpose and Vision of City of Ukiah Open Space Designated Properties The City of Ukiah is committed to protecting the purity and integrity of the Ukiah Valley Aquifer that supplies water to residents and the flora and fauna of the Ukiah Valley, as well as to the Russian River. Protecting the watershed created by the western hills from development was the primary purpose for the City’s acquisition of the WHWPA. Additional but secondary reasons, or goals for the acquisition included habitat and viewshed protection, utility support, and recreation. All plans and activities should balance these secondary goals while assuring the ascendency of watershed protection. Vision Statement Alternative 1: "Creating an Open Space Preserve, Balancing Resource Management, Fire Risk Abatement, and Public Engagement" Our vision for the WHWPA project is to establish an Open Space Preserve that harmoniously integrates resource management, fire risk abatement, and public access for healthful outdoor recreation. We aspire to protect native plants and wildlife communities, prevent erosion, and maintain water quality. Simultaneously, we aim to engage the public in citizen science, education, and passive recreation while ensuring the protection of historical resources and providing essential infrastructure for the benefit of our community. Vision Statement Alternative 2: "WHWPA: A Model of Environmental Resilience, Community Engagement, and Public Safety" Our vision for WHWPA is to achieve environmental resilience by proactively managing resources, reducing fire risks, and allowing community access to wild spaces to promote individual and community health. We are committed to preserving native plants and wildlife, preventing erosion, and safeguarding water quality. Simultaneously, we prioritize public access for citizen science, education, and passive recreation while safeguarding historical and archaeological resources and enhancing essential infrastructure. Vision Statement Alternative 3: "Balancing Conservation and Community at WHWPA: A Living Showcase of Sustainability" Our vision for WHWPA is to create a living showcase of sustainability, where resource management, fire risk abatement, and passive recreation objectives coexist seamlessly. We strive to protect native plants and wildlife, control erosion, and maintain water quality. Additionally, we are dedicated to offering safe public access for citizen science, education, and passive recreation, all while respecting and preserving historical resources and supporting critical infrastructure needs. Page 21 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 3 Resource Preservation Objective 1 Establish a Management Culture of Continual Improvement and Increased Resource Knowledge and Understanding. Objective 2 Locate WHWPA Facilities to Avoid Rare Plants, Sensitive Natural Communities and Habitat for Wildlife Objective 3 Control Erosion, Protect Water Quality, and Maintain Facilities Objective 4 Control Dust during Construction and other Management Activities Objective 5 Revegetation after Soil Disturbance Objective 6 Best Management Practices for Hazardous Materials Handling and Pollution Objective 7 Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species Objective 8 Prevent Spread of Sudden Oak Death and Other Plant Pathogens Objective 9 Best Management Practices for Use of Pesticides and Herbicides Fire Risk Abatement Objective10 Reduce Fire Risk to the WHWPA through Fire Abatement and Vegetation Management Activities Objective 11 Protect Habitat during Fire Abatement and Vegetation Management Activities Public Uses and Access Objective 12 Provide Safe Public Access for Citizen Science / Education, Volunteer Management, and Recreation Objective 13 Monitor for, and Protect if Found, Historic or Archeological Resources Objective 14 Provide Water Storage, Power Generation, and Communication Infrastructure Objective 15 Provide and Protect Access to Native American Culture Bearers to Nurture Areas for Harvest and Traditional Uses Page 22 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 4 General Program Objectives, and Resource Conservation Objectives The following Project Objectives and Management Tasks are intended to guide the management of the WHWPA and to protect and enhance native habitats and protect sensitive biotic resources (such as riparian zones and creeks, Sensitive Natural Communities and habitat for native wildlife and plan species); protect cultural resources; and potentially expand access to the Protection Area. This plan assures activities on the property will minimize impacts to less than significant levels. A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan shall be produced and implemented in coordination with facility development. Project Objectives Resource Preservation Objective 1 Establish a Management Culture of Continual Improvement and Increased Resource Knowledge and Understanding. •Seek opportunities to fund and carry out property surveys to better understand and map the WHWPA. •To the greatest extent possible begin with high level, broad scale surveys to be used to identify areas of concern, such as areas with rare plants or Sensitive Natural Communities, and then focus subsequent surveys on areas of heightened concern. •To the greatest extent possible collect and collate studies into a single searchable source. •Seek opportunities to collaborate with partner agencies to further the knowledge and understanding of the project. •Seek formal and informal opportunities for staff education. Objective 2 – Locate WHWPA Facilities to Avoid Rare Plants, Sensitive Natural Communities and Habitat for Wildlife The City shall use the following design standards to minimize impacts on native vegetation and wildlife communities: •To the greatest degree possibly site roads, trails, and other park infrastructure out of sensitive habitat areas. •Maintain buffers between new trails or park infrastructure and drainages. •Limit removal of existing native vegetation during site development. •Design trails to avoid mature trees and plan revegetation as needed to maintain native canopy cover and understory species. •Limit the use of fences. When fencing is essential, use wildlife-friendly fencing. Page 23 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 5 Management Task 2A: Avoid Loss of Special-Status species and their Habitats The City shall ensure that the following protection objectives for special-status plants and species of local concern and their habitat are implemented during management activities in the WHWPA. • Maintiain a list of special status plants to be updated at least every three years to monitor for newly listed species •Avoid removal and minimize trimming of Raiche’s Manzanita (Arctostaphylos stanfordiana spp. raichei) and Redwood Lilly (Lilium rubescens) during vegetation management activities. Train crews to recognize this species prior to each vegetation clearing effort, and have a trained supervisor oversee all work in areas where this plant occurs. •Ensure that Red bellied newts (Taricha rivularis) are protected during vegetation management activities. Train crews to recognize this species prior to each vegetation clearing effort, and have a trained supervisor oversee all work in areas where this plant occurs. • Prior to any park development in areas beyond existing trails and roads, the City shall conduct a botanical survey to ensure that no special-status species are present. Surveys shall be conducted at the appropriate time for plant identification and shall be conducted by a botanist experienced with Mendocino County plant species and natural communities. If special-status plants or their habitat are not identified during initial site surveys, no further mitigation is necessary under this objective. • If any special-status plant species or Sensitive Natural Communities are found in areas proposed for park development, project plans shall be adjusted to avoid impact to the species. The City shall consult with a qualified botanist to determine appropriate setback distances and protection objectives. • If special-status plant species or Sensitive Natural Communities cannot be avoided, project-specific protection objectives (e.g., transplant, seed collection, propagation) shall be developed and implemented. • Any herbicide application to treat non-native plants must ensure that no native plants are affected. A thorough review of Invasive Plant Management best practices should be undertaken and consultation with the Invasive Plant Council should be considered prior to application. Management Task 2B: Protect Birds During Construction and Other Management Activities The City shall ensure that the following protection objectives for birds are implemented for construction, ground disturbing, and/or vegetation management activities: Page 24 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 6 • Work outside of the critical breeding bird period (February 15 through August 31) including construction projects and during ongoing land management (e.g., vegetation trimming and removal, etc.). If activities must occur during this period, work areas shall be surveyed by a qualified biologist prior to commencing. Surveys shall be required for all human-related ground disturbance activities in natural habitats and for vegetation trimming and removal. The surveys shall be conducted within one week prior to initiation of vegetation clearing, tree removal and trimming, or other construction activities. If the biologist finds no active nesting or breeding activity, work can proceed without restrictions. If active raptor or owl nests are identified within 100 feet of the construction area or active nests of other special-status birds (e.g., passerines, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, etc.) are identified within 50 feet of the construction area, a biologist shall determine whether or not construction activities may impact the active nest or disrupt reproductive behavior. If it is determined that construction would not affect an active nest or disrupt breeding behavior, construction can proceed without restrictions. The determination of disruption shall be based on the species’ sensitivity to disturbance, which can vary among species; the level of noise or construction disturbance; and the line of sight between the nest and the disturbance. If the biologist determines activities would be detrimental, the nesting area and 250-foot buffer for larger nesting birds (e.g., owls, raptors, herons, egrets) and 50-foot buffer for small nesting songbirds shall be avoided until the nest has been vacated. • If the work area is left unattended for more than one week following the initial surveys, additional surveys shall be completed. Ongoing construction monitoring shall occur to ensure no nesting activity is disturbed. If State and/or federally listed birds are found breeding within the area, activities shall be halted, and consultation with the CDFW and USFWS shall occur to determine if any additional protection objectives are needed. • For fire risk abatement fuel management, nesting bird surveys shall be required for all fire risk abatement vegetation management in late winter through spring. All burn piles shall be burned outside of the bird nesting season (February 15 through August 31). If activities must occur during this period, burn activities shall be reviewed and approved by a qualified biologist before commencing. Objective 3 - Control Erosion, Protect Water Quality, and Maintain Facilities The City shall maintain roads, trails, and any other approved infrastructure to ensure long term viability and utility of the infrastructure while ensuring erosion control, sediment detention. Site maintenance activities shall occur in accordance with the Handbook for Forest, Ranch, & Rural Roads (2015) and the following objectives: • Protect disturbed areas against erosion. When a road project involves grading or work within or adjacent to a stream, a spill prevention and clean-up plan, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (if disturbance is greater than one acre), or similar document (Erosion Control Plan) shall be prepared and implemented during construction activities to protect water quality. The plan would address polluted Page 25 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 7 runoff and spill prevention policies, BMPs that are required to be available on site in case of rain or a spill (e.g., straw bales, silt fencing, erosion control blankets), clean-up and reporting procedures, and locations of refueling and minor maintenance areas. • Dispose of all debris, sediment, rubbish, vegetation, or other construction-related materials in a location approved by the City. No materials, including petroleum products, chemicals, silt, fine soils, or substances deleterious to the function of a watercourse, water quality, or biological resources, would be allowed to pass into, or be placed where it can pass into stream channels. • Cover stockpiled soils if rain occurs while materials are temporarily stockpiled. Cover stockpiles with plastic that is secured in place to ensure the piles are protected from rain and wind. Silt fencing or wattles would be installed on contour around all stockpile locations. • Follow Ukiah Valley Trail Group’s Trail Maintenance and Design Guidelines for all trail construction and maintenance. (Appendix X) • Minimize the amount of soil disturbance and avoid trail alignments in seeps or wet areas. • Install temporary erosion control objectives such as wattles before construction begins and remove once the site has been stabilized with native vegetation or other method. • Maintain vegetated filter strips at the base of slopes and along trails to allow surface water to slow down and for sediment to be retained. Management Task 3A -Maintain roads and facilities to minimize sedimentation and maintenance costs. •Perform an annual survey of road conditions after the end of winter rains. •Note and document maintenance needs that will be required prior to the next rainy season. •All road work shall be completed in accordance with the Handbook for Forest, Ranch, & Rural Roads (see Reference List). Project Objective 4 - Control Dust during Construction and other Management Activities The City shall implement the following dust control objectives in areas where soil or vegetation has been disturbed and during construction activities: • Cover open-bodied trucks when used for transporting materials likely to give rise to airborne dust. • Use water or chemicals to control dust during construction operations or clearing of land. Page 26 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 8 • Apply water or suitable chemicals on materials stockpiles and other surfaces that can give rise to airborne dusts. • Limit vehicle speeds on dirt roads to not more than 12 miles per hour. Objective 5 – Revegetation after Soil Disturbance The City shall implement the following objectives in areas where soil or vegetation has been disturbed by management activities: • Implement soil protection objectives, including seeding or planting, promptly with appropriate native species and covering with weed-free straw mulch, and/or installing biodegradable erosion control fabric on slopes. • Use seed or container stock of local origin for plantings. Seed or propagules for revegetation would be collected from the property itself if a viable source is present. Where this is not possible, propagules shall be from within the Russian River watershed with exceptions being made only after review by a qualified staff member or consultant. Within these geographic parameters, collections shall be made with the goal of capturing natural genetic variation (e.g., collect from a range of elevations and from plants exhibiting varied phenology). • Include native plant species with high value to local wildlife and/or butterflies and other pollinators in planting palettes as appropriate to the site. Ideally, the area should be surveyed in advance to identify and mimic the species naturally occurring on the site. • For management actions that have removed native vegetation, evaluate post-construction revegetation success on individual site conditions based generally on the following: 1) establishment of native trees and shrubs at a ratio of 2:1 living after five years (or the ratio mandated by regulatory permits), 2) establishment of herbaceous cover equal to that of adjacent undisturbed ground within three years, and 3) no increase in invasive species populations (or no greater cover of invasive species than that of adjacent undisturbed ground). • Enhance native butterfly habitat by incorporating larval host plants and nectar plants into restoration palettes as appropriate. • Include a mixture of plant types (i.e., shrubs, vines, perennials, and herbaceous species as well as trees) in planting palettes to maintain or improve the structural diversity of habitats. • Use limited organic, weed-free amendments if required to help establish restoration vegetation for soils that have been disturbed and require additional organic matter or nutrients to support native Page 27 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 9 plants. Organic fertilizers shall only be used above the normal high-water mark of any adjacent waterways. No chemical fertilizers shall be used. Objective 6 - Best Management Practices for Hazardous Materials Handling and Pollution Prevention The City shall employ Best Management Practices for staging, maintenance, fueling, and spill containment of potentially hazardous materials used on the property. The City shall ensure that all equipment used onsite is inspected for leaks. Vehicles shall be parked and fueled in a designated staging a minimum of 50' away from creeks, drainages, and other water sources including wetlands and seasonal wetlands. All equipment shall be properly cleaned before entering the Preserve, and spill prevention kits shall be available onsite. Objective 7- Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species The City shall prevent the spread of invasive weeds and other species to the extent feasible. Invasive Plants Weed control methods shall include, but would not be limited to: •Clean plant material and soil from the tires and undercarriage of vehicles and equipment (e.g. mowers) that have traveled through weed-infested areas before they leave those areas. •Cleaning may be done with a hose if water is available and/or with a scrub brush or stiff broom. •Train staff and WHWPA volunteers to recognize invasive species and report new infestations promptly to Director of Community Services or designee. •If resources are available, educate residents immediately adjacent to the WHWPA about invasive species and encourage use of locally native plant species in landscaping.. Invasive Animals •Monitor for the invasion of pigs and other non-native animals with the assistance of trail cams and quarterly site tours. •Intervene early and aggressively to exclude pigs from the property. •Develop a plan for depredation pig hunts to be available and ready for implementation should pigs be discovered. Page 28 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 10 Objective 8 – Prevent Spread of Sudden Oak Death and Other Plant Pathogens The City shall be responsible for protecting against the spread of Sudden Oak Death (SOD) and other plant pathogens through implementation of the following requirements: •Before purchasing any nursery stock for restoration plantings, confirm that the nursery follows current Best Management Practices for preventing the spread of SOD (consult the California Oak Mortality Task Force for current standards). •Inspect all plant materials for symptoms of SOD before bringing onto the property. •Train management staff on host species, symptoms, and disease transmission pathways for Phytophthora ramorum and other Phytophthora species, and on Best Management Practices to prevent the spread of SOD, including: o Clean equipment after working in forest and woodland habitats, including chainsaws, boots, and truck tires (spray with a 10% bleach solution or other disinfectant, then rinse). o Work in forest and woodlands in the dry season instead of the wet season when spores are being produced and infections are starting. Avoid or minimize pruning oak, tanoak, and bays in wet weather. o Leave potentially infected downed trees on site instead of transporting the material to an uninfected area. Where infection is already known to be present, leaving P. ramorum infected or killed trees on site has not been shown to increase the risk of infection to adjacent trees. Allow removal from the property only if fire risk is high or for aesthetic or safety. If infected material is removed from the site, dispose of at an approved and permitted facility within the quarantine zone encompassing the 14-county infected quarantine zone. •If necessary to reduce safety or fire hazards, infected trees can be cut, branches chipped, and wood split. Do not leave cut wood and chips in an area where they might be transported to an uninfected location. •Educate WHWPA users about objectives to prevent the spread of SOD. Provide signage at major trailheads explaining that SOD occurs on the property, showing typical symptoms and explaining that it can be spread by WHWPA visitors, especially in wet winters, during rainy and windy weather. This may be based on existing public educational materials such as those developed by the California Oak Mortality Task Force. Request that WHWPA visitors: o Stay on established trails and respect trail closures. o Avoid entering areas that appear to be diseased, especially in wet, muddy conditions. If avoidance is not possible, follow the sanitation practices described below. o Avoid transporting SOD on shoes, vehicles, or other transport. After traveling through an infected area, clean up and disinfect. For instance, hikers should remove mud from shoes Page 29 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 11 using an old screwdriver, stiff brush, and/or towel. Further disinfect shoes by washing with soap and water or spraying with a 10% bleach solution. Objective 9 – Best Management Practices for Use of Pesticides and Herbicides The City shall minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides to the extent feasible as directed by the City of Ukiah’s Integrated Pest Management Plan. The City shall ensure that any use of pesticides is done according to manufacturers’ recommendations and only as part of the City’s Integrated Pest Management Plan to protect natural resources and conservation values. Use pesticides with caution to prevent contaminated runoff. A surfactant-free formulation shall be used any time pesticides or herbicides are used within a riparian area. Herbicide application shall be done under the guidance of a certified pest control applicator and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Fire Risk Abatement Objective 10 – Reduce Fire Risk to the WHWPA through Fire Abatement and Vegetation Management Activities The City shall collaborate with the Ukiah Valley Fire Protection District, Mendocino County Fire Safe Council, and CalFire to undertake fire reduction and mitigation programs. The following harm reduction programs and efforts shall be pursued: •Convene regular meetings to ensure collaboration and communication between the partner agencies. •Develop a priority list of fire mitigation measures to be implemented as funding is available. •Maintain a log of fuel load management and fire mitigation project completion. •To achieve the fire hazard reduction goals, the City shall develop a Fire Risk Abatement Plan. The work plan shall include a description of the current and target condition of the treatment area, map and photos of the treatment area; identify immediate and long-term goals, timeline for implementation, access points, disposal methods, and target species. Fire Risk Abatement Plans may cover a period of 1 to 5 years. The Fire Risk Abatement Plan shall follow the natural resource and fire management recommendations set forth in the WHWPA Management Plan. Once the plans are developed, implementation will proceed as described in the plan. Maintenance and Management Task 10A - Reduce Fire Risk on the WHWPA During Maintenance or Patrol Activities The City shall implement the following measures to reduce fire risk on the WHWPA during Page 30 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 12 maintenance activities: • Prohibit vegetation management for ongoing WHWPA maintenance or fire risk abatement during red flag days according to the National Weather Service. • Require all equipment and vehicles used on the WHWPA to be equipped with spark arrestors or other means of controlling backfiring. • Limit use of power tools for maintenance or other activities during periods of high and very high fire danger. • Limit driving onto the Preserve during periods of high and very high fire danger. • Prohibit parking or driving over flammable material such as grasses and dry brush. • Maintain clear, unobstructed access along the fire and emergency access road by trimming back encroaching vegetation and promptly responding to and removing any trail obstruction • Ensure that fire department staff or other entities overseeing fuel load management activities participate in the annual staff meeting and communication protocol. •All vehicles driven onto the WHWPA shall be equipped with a fire extinguisher, chain saw and associated safety equipment, standard fire-fighting equipment (e.g., shovel, McLeod, fire extinguisher), and a first-aid kit. Objective 11 – Protect Habitat during Fire Abatement and Vegetation Management Activities The City shall fully maintain habitat quality and complexity during fire abatement and vegetation management activities consistent with protecting public safety. The following habitat protection objectives shall be implemented: •Develop and maintain a trail and road system to increase emergency access routes and serve as small fire breaks. WHWPA areas along the emergency access routes shall be maintained for emergency vehicle travel while retaining as much vegetation as possible. Established and maintained corridors reduce the chance of emergency road building. •Roads and trails provide a good access area for shaded fuel breaks and should be considered as priority areas for fuel load management. •Once established, trails should be evaluated and recommendations for trail clearing widths should be established on a case-by-case basis. Page 31 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 13 •Prior to vegetation management activities, establish permanent photo points to illustrate before- and after-treatment conditions. Provide typical views of treatment locations for five years after treatment. Use photos to review changes in habitat conditions. Photos shall be taken at the same month each year – for example, in May or June when new leaves are present on plants. If undesirable changes, such as decreased plant density or non-native plant invasion are noted, the City shall review practices and revise as needed to protect natural resources. •Conduct biological trainings and surveys prior to vegetation management activities. •Engage personnel familiar with native plant identification and wildlife requirements to guide vegetation management and fuel reduction work on the ground. •Allow maintenance vehicle access only on the fire and emergency access road and existing trails. •Maintain habitat complexity, especially along drainages and riparian corridors outside the emergency access corridor. This will require maintaining a balance between providing diverse, multistory forest and woodlands for wildlife utilization and plant community diversity and the need for fire risk abatement and emergency services access. •If vegetation management is needed along drainages for public safety, ensure that the special ecological values of the habitat are maintained. Work only on sites that are accessible without driving off-road or off-trail, dispose of cut vegetation without blocking drainages, minimize ground disturbance, and maintain duff and native canopy. •Limit ground disturbance during all vegetation management activities. Where bare ground is exposed as a result of work, promptly treat to prevent erosion, establish native plant species including ground cover, grasses, and shrubs, as appropriate, and limit colonization by invasive plant species; Seeding recommendations should be developed and added to this plan as an Appendix. •Unless there is a threat to public safety or increased fire risk, retain decaying and dying trees, limbs, snags, and debris piles for wildlife habitat. Snags should be left standing at not less than six per acre. If a downed trees crosses over a trail, cut and move to the side. •In areas of tree die-off, trees can be felled and limbed. A minimum of six snags per acre should be retained for habitat preservation. •Engage a professional botanist or vegetation ecologist to review fire hazard reduction practices every five years to ensure that vegetation removal is not negatively affecting native plant community species composition or health, or wildlife communities. Page 32 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 14 Public Uses and Access Objective 12 – Provide Safe Public Access for Citizen Science / Education, Volunteer Management Assistance, and Recreation The City shall develop and implement plans to allow public access to the WHWPA. Public access may be permitted to allow for Citizen Science and Education, Volunteer Activities, and / or Recreation. The following public access objectives shall be implemented: •Develop and implement policies and procedures for public access to pursue research, citizen science, and / or education to be added as an appendix to this document. •Develop and implement policies and procedures for volunteer assistance in the management of the WHWPA to be added as an appendix to this document. •Develop and implement policies and procedures for public recreational access to the WHWPA to be added as an appendix to this document. •Coordinate with Human resources to limit liability. •The use of motor vehicles by the public will be restricted to the greatest degree possible. Motor vehicle use for the sole purpose of recreation shall be prohibited. Objective 13 – Monitor for, and Protect if Found, Historic or Archeological Resources The City shall remain vigilant for the discovery of previously unknown Historic or Archeological Resources. In pursuit of this objective the City shall; •Seek funding for and obtain an Archeological survey of the WHWPA. Management Task 13A; Identify and Avoid or Minimize Impacts on Historic Resources Should subsurface historic materials be encountered during construction, the City shall ensure that trail maintenance, or resource management activities, the piece of equipment or crew member that encountered the materials shall stop and the find shall be inspected by a qualified historian/archaeologist. Project personnel shall not collect historic materials. If the historian/archaeologist determines that the find qualifies as a unique historic resource for the purposes of CEQA (Guidelines Section 15064.5(c)), all work shall be stopped in the immediate vicinity to allow the archaeologist to evaluate the find and recommend appropriate treatment. Such treatment and Page 33 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 15 resolution shall include either modifying the project to allow the materials to be left in place or undertaking data recovery of the materials in accordance with standard archaeological methods. The preferred treatment shall be protection and preservation. If the resource is determined to qualify as historic under CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5(a), and the management action would impair the resource, such impacts on the resource shall be avoided. Management activities shall be implemented to avoid impairment of the historic resources. Objectives to protect historic resources may include, for example, temporary protective barriers or construction worker training. Management Task 13B: Identify and Avoid or Minimize Impacts on Archaeological Resources The City of Ukiah shall ensure that if previously unknown archaeological materials are encountered during construction, trail maintenance, or resource management activities, the piece of equipment or crew member that encountered the materials shall stop, and the find shall be inspected by a qualified archaeologist. Project personnel shall not collect archaeological materials. If the archaeologist determines that the find potentially qualifies as a unique archaeological resource for the purposes of CEQA (Guidelines Section 15064.5(c)), all work shall be stopped in the immediate vicinity to allow the archaeologist to evaluate the find and recommend appropriate treatment. Such treatment and resolution shall include either project modification to allow the materials to be left in place or undertaking data recovery of the materials in accordance with standard archaeological methods. The preferred treatment shall be protection and preservation. Management Task 13C: Procedures for Encountering Human Remains If human remains are encountered, project personnel shall stop all work in the immediate vicinity. The Mendocino County Coroner and a qualified archaeologist shall be notified immediately so that an evaluation can be performed. If the coroner determines the remains are Native American and prehistoric, NAHC shall be contacted so that a “Most Likely Descendant” can be designated, the appropriate Tribal representative can be contacted, and further recommendations regarding treatment of the remains can be provided. The City of Ukiah shall ensure that if human remains or funerary objects are discovered during soil-disturbing activities, the City shall ensure that all work stops in the vicinity and that the Mendocino County Coroner is notified. A qualified archaeologist shall evaluate the remains. If human remains are of Native American origin, the Coroner shall notify the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours of identification, pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. NAHC would appoint a Most Likely Descendant (MLD). A qualified archaeologist, the City of Ukiah, and the MLD shall make all reasonable efforts to develop an agreement for the treatment, with appropriate dignity, of any human remains and associated or unassociated funerary objects (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5[d]). The agreement shall take into consideration the appropriate excavation, removal, recordation, analysis, custodianship, and final disposition of the human remains and associated or unassociated funerary objects. The PRC allows 48 hours to reach agreement on these matters. If the MLD and the other parties cannot not agree on the reburial method, the City shall follow PRC Section 5097.98(b), which states that “the landowner or his or her authorized representative shall reinter the human remains and items associated with Native American burials with appropriate dignity on the Page 34 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 16 property in a location not subject to further subsurface disturbance.” Management Task 13D: Avoid or Document Paleontological Resources The City of Ukiah shall ensure that if a paleontological resource is discovered during construction, trail maintenance, or resource management activities, all ground-disturbing activities within 50 feet of the find shall be temporarily halted. Activities may be diverted to areas beyond 50 feet from the discovery. The City shall notify a qualified paleontologist who will document the discovery, evaluate the potential resource, and assess the nature and significance of the find. Based on scientific value or uniqueness, the paleontologist may record the find and allow work to continue or recommend salvage and recovery of the material. The paleontologist shall make recommendations for any necessary treatment that is consistent with currently accepted scientific practices. Management Task 13E; Consult with Native American Tribes if Previously Undiscovered Artifacts are Discovered In the event any Native American archaeological remains are discovered during implementation of management activities, the City shall contact and consult with local tribes who have a traditional and cultural affiliation with the Project area. If the tribe(s) considers the resource to be a tribal resource, the City shall consult with the tribe to develop appropriate mitigation objectives in accordance with Public Resources Code 21080.3.2. Objective 14 Provide Water Storage, Power Generation, and Communication Infrastructure The City of Ukiah’s Water and Utilities Departments contributed to funding for the WHWPA acquisition with the understanding that water storage and power generation were potential uses of the property. While watershed protection is the primary goal of the property, the placement of water tanks and limited power generation infrastructure should be considered when feasible with mitigations for the use as determined by CEQA reviews such as Mitigated Negative Declaration or EIR. Objective 15 Provide and Protect Access to Native American Culture Bearers to Nurture Areas for Harvest and Traditional Uses The City shall develop and implement plans and policies to allow safe and secure access to Native American culture bearers who wish to nurture areas for harvest, harvest for personal and family use, and for the pursuit of other traditional uses. Page 35 of 36 Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Management Plan 17 References Weaver W., Weppner E., Hagans, D; Handbook for Forest, Ranch, & Rural Roads (2015). Mendocino County Resource Conservation District Ukiah Valley Trail Group’s Trail Maintenance and Design Guidelines (2015). Bride, Anna; Davis, Neil Western Hills Watershed Protection Area Baseline Documentation Report (2023). City of Ukiah Page 36 of 36