HomeMy WebLinkAboutMendocino County Resource Conservation District 2026-06-15
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LANDOWNER ACCESS AGREEMENT WITH
MENDOCINO COUNTY RESOURCE CONSERVATION DISTRICT
AND
CITY OF UKIAH
WEST UKIAH HILLS PHASES I AND II
This Agreement is made and becomes effective on June 15th, 2026 between City of Ukiah,
hereinafter called “City,” and the Mendocino County Resource Conservation District,
hereinafter called “MCRCD”. City is the fee owner of, or has a beneficial interest in, certain real
property located in the Ukiah West Hills (“Project Area”) in Mendocino County, California.
I. RECITAL
MCRCD is a subgrantee to Humboldt Resource Conservation District who was awarded grant
funding from the California State Coastal Conservancy (“SCC”) to implement wildfire resilience
and vegetation management activities within the Ukiah West Hills Project Area (“Project”)
(PHASE I).
MCRCD was also directly awarded grant funding from the SCC to implement wildfire resilience
and vegetation management activities on a separate area within the Project Area (Phase II).
Both phases of the Project include fuel reduction, fire hardening of trail corridors, and related
activities as described in the SCC Grant Agreement and approved work program (collectively,
“SCC Grant Requirements”). MCRCD will serve as the Project manager and CEQA Lead
Agency for Phases I and II.
The location of the Project Area is: T15N R12W Sec 19, T15N R12W Sec 30, T15N R13W Sec
23, T15N R13W Sec 24, T15N R13W Sec 25, T15N R13W Sec 26; and it includes APNs:
0031901700, 0031901100, 0035001400, 0032600100, 1570300305, 1570501600, 1570700500,
1570600305, 1570501400, 1570300205, 1570500305, 1570501300, 1570501500, 1570501800,
0031901600, 0010408300, 1570600205.
The purpose of this Agreement is to establish the terms under which MCRCD may access City -
owned property and implement the Project, and to allocate responsibilities necessary to ensure
compliance with SCC Grant Requirements.
II. SCC CONTRACT PRECEDENCE
In the event of any conflict between this Agreement and the SCC Grant Agreement, work
program, or any applicable SCC Grant Requirement, the SCC Grant Requirement shall control.
The SCC Grant Agreement is incorporated by reference. The work programs describing the
scope of work for the Project are attached as Exhibit 1.
III. ACCESS PERMISSION
City hereby grants MCRCD, its employees, contractors, consultants, agents, and SCC
representatives, a non-exclusive right of entry to the Project Area for purposes of planning,
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environmental compliance, implementation, inspection, monitoring, reporting, grant closeout,
and corrective work.
Access shall be provided at reasonable times with reasonable notice, except where immediate
access is required to address safety concerns, regulatory compliance, or grant obligations.
IV. GRANT CONDITIONS
All work conducted under this Agreement shall be limited to the scope authorized under the
SCC-funded Project, including fuel reduction, trail fire hardening, and associated activities.
City agrees to cooperate with implementation of the SCC-approved Phase I and II Work
Programs, which shall govern the methods, schedule, and scope of Project work (See Exhibit 1)
MCRCD may utilize contractors to perform Project work, and City shall allow such contractors
reasonable access to the Property.
(i) Permits for all work will be obtained by RCD or their contractor before construction
begins. All work shall be in conformance with the terms and conditions of permits.
All discretionary or ministerial permits will be held by RCD or their contractor.
(ii) The City will conform to all terms and conditions of [Coastal Conservancy Phase I
Block Grant to HCRCD# G23-163 under Work Program 186 (HCRCD / MCRCD
Sub-grant dated 3/27/2025) and Phase II Grant # G25-048 attached as Exhibit 1]
incorporated here by reference with applicable sections including but not limited to
nondiscrimination and maintenance requirements.
V. CITY MAINTENANCE OBLIGATIONS
Following completion of Project implementation, City shall maintain the treatment areas,
including shaded fuel breaks and trail corridors, in a manner sufficient to preserve their intended
wildfire-resilience function. Maintenance shall include actions necessary to maintain treatment
effectiveness, access, and public safety.
City shall not authorize or allow activities that materially impair treatment areas, interfere with
access, or result in noncompliance with SCC Grant Requirements.
VI. INDEMNIFICATION
a. Each party, to the extent permitted by law, agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the other
party, its employees, officers, invitees, guests, agents, consultants, and the successors and assigns
of any and each of them, from all claims, demands, losses, damages, expenses, costs (including
without limitation, reasonable attorney's fees and court costs), penalties, liabilities or other
obligations of any kind, arising out of the indemnifying party’s performance under this
Agreement except where such injury or damage arose from the sole negligent or intentional acts
or omissions of the other party.
b. To the furthest extent permitted by law, City shall defend, indemnify and hold MCRCD, their
agents, employees, contractors or subcontractors, their agents, employees, and funding agencies
harmless from any and all claims, demands, or liability that arise out of, relate to, or are incident
to actions taken by MCRCD as lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act that
relate to the Project.
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VII. TERM
The term of this Agreement shall be for five years from the date of execution shown below. This
agreement can be amended only by written agreement of both parties.
The following obligations shall survive termination as applicable:
• Maintenance
• Indemnification
• Reimbursement
• Compliance verification
VIII. DEFAULT AND CURE
If either party fails to perform its obligations, the other party may provide written notice.
The defaulting party shall have twenty (21) business days to cure, or to commence cure and
diligently complete it if cure cannot be completed within that period.
If necessary to protect SCC compliance, funding, or Project completion, MCRCD may enter the
Property and take corrective action.
IX. TRANSFER AND SUCCESSORS
City shall notify MCRCD of any transfer or encumbrance of the Property.
City shall ensure that any successor assumes obligations necessary to preserve access,
maintenance, and compliance with SCC requirements.
X. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT
This Agreement may be terminated by either party, in its sole discretion, upon the occurrence of
one or more of the following events:
a. The mutual written agreement of both parties.
b. Either party’s determination that:
(i) compliance with the Agreement will result in the violation of a federal, state or local
statute or regulation, or
(ii) termination of the Agreement would be in the public interest, or
(iii) grant funding for the Program is not received, or grant funding for the Program is
terminated, delayed or reduced, or
(iv) Construction of the Project is not feasible due to circumstances beyond the City’s or
RCD’s reasonable control.
c. Default of either party in the performance of any of the terms and conditions of this
Agreement, or material breach of any of its provisions or warranties, and failure to cure the
default or breach within 21 business days after service on the defaulting party of written
notice of such default or breach.
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XI. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
a. Governing Law: The interpretation and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the
laws of the State of California.
b. Severability: If any provision of this Agreement is found to be void, invalid or unenforceable, it
will be reformed to comply with applicable law or stricken if not so conformable, so as not to
affect the validity and/or enforceability of the remainder of this Agreement.
c. City covenants to give actual notice of this Agreement and its terms to any party or entity to
whom City intends to convey, devise or transfer any interest (including a security interest) in the
Property prior to such conveyance, devise and/or transfer. City agrees to notify MCRCD of any
such conveyance, devise or transfer.
d. No joint venture or partnership or agency relationship is created by this Agreement as between
City, MCRCD and any other party hereto.
e. No Recourse: Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement, City shall have no recourse
against MCRCD for financial, administrative, or other support or assistance, including, but not
limited to, support or assistance associated with disputes arising at any time with Contractor or
any other third party.
f. Amendment: This Agreement may be amended only by an agreement in writing signed by all
parties to the Agreement.
g. Time is of the Essence: Time is of the essence in this Agreement and each of its provisions.
h. Open Records: All books and records of the parties shall be open to inspection and audit upon
reasonable notice for any valid business purpose related to this Agreement.
MCRCD City of Ukiah
Date Date
Signature Signature
Printed Name Stephanie Garrabrant-Sierra Printed Name
Title Executive Director Title
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6/12/2026
Sage Sangiacomo
City Manager
06/18/2026
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Exhibit 1
Appendix B – Phase I Work Program
WORK PROGRAM UNDER CONTRACT 186
RCD Name: [Mendocino County Resource Conservation District]
Conservancy Grant Agreement # 23-163
Work Program Number [6-1]
Today’s Date [Jan 30, 2026]
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Mendocino County Resource Conservation District (MCRCD) proposes the approximately 90-
acre Ukiah West Hills Phase 1 Fuels Reduction Project in the Western Hills above the City of
Ukiah. Phase 1 represents an initial implementation effort focused on priority corridors within
the Western Hills Watershed Protection Area.
The project will implement shaded fuel breaks and targeted thinning along existing roads and
planned trail alignments to reduce hazardous fuel continuity in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity
Zone. Treatments will improve firefighter access, ingress and egress, evacuation reliability, and
operational safety while supporting the City’s long-term vision for fire-hardened public access in
the western hills.
Vegetation treatments will focus on thinning dense brush and small trees, pruning lower
branches to reduce ladder fuels, and retaining larger, healthy trees to maintain shade, slow
understory regrowth, and protect soil and watershed values. Work will be designed to create
continuous but lightened fuel-reduced corridors rather than wide area clearings.
Phase 1 will be implemented on City-owned land and will occur entirely within areas analyzed
under the City of Ukiah’s adopted CEQA documents for the Western Hills Watershed Protection
Area. Potential partners include the City of Ukiah, CAL FIRE Mendocino Unit, Mendocino
County Fire Safe Council, Ukiah Valley Fire Authority, and adjacent landowners. Phase 1 will
also help establish a practical foundation for future maintenance and follow-on fuels reduction
work in the Ukiah West Hills.
II. SCOPE OF WORK
Task 2 Capacity Building
MCRCD will provide overall project management and administrative oversight to ensure the
Ukiah West Hills Phase 1 Fuels Reduction Project is implemented in accordance with the
approved Work Program, schedule, and budget. MCRCD will coordinate regularly wit h the
Humboldt County Resource Conservation District (HCRCD) Program Manager to communicate
project status, upcoming milestones, and any issues requiring attention.
MCRCD will manage the project budget and timeline; prepare and submit progress reports,
invoices, and requests for disbursement using Conservancy and HCRCD templates; and
participate in required group governance meetings with other North Coast RCDs. Progress
reports will document subcontractor activities, completed deliverables, implementation progress,
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compliance status, and any challenges encountered, along with proposed resolutions or schedule
adjustments as needed. As part of project oversight, MCRCD staff will conduct periodic site
visits during implementation to review contractor work for consistency with the approved
treatment specifications, applicable best management practices, and the scope described in this
Work Program, and will coordinate with partners to address any needed field adjustments.
Capacity Building Task Deliverable(s):
1. Ongoing general project management and administrative oversight for the duration of the Work
Program, including coordination with the HCRCD Program Manager.
2. Participation in required group governance meetings with other North Coast RCDs, as applicable.
3. Periodic progress reports documenting project status, subcontractor activities, completed
deliverables, implementation progress, and any issues and proposed resolutions.
4. Invoices and requests for disbursement submitted in accordance with Conservancy and HCRCD
requirements.
5. Final project report summarizing capacity-building activities conducted under this task.
6. Two Adobe Creative Cloud licenses maintained for a two-year period to support project mapping,
documentation, and outreach materials.
7. Establish relationship w local Tribal Nations to gauge interest in project involvement
Task 3 Planning and Project Development
Planning and Project Development includes field layout and refinement of treatment unit
boundaries within the approximately 90-acre Phase 1 project area, coordination of environmental
and permit compliance consistent with the City of Ukiah’s adopted CEQA documents (see
Environmental and Permit Compliance section below), and preparation of implementation -ready
contracting materials. This task also includes time to develop and finalize prevailing wage
contracts and related documentation needed to support implementation. Currently working
with CCC to determine capacity and availability to do the work.
Planning and Project Development Task Deliverable(s):
1. Field layout and documentation of treatment unit boundaries for approximately 90 acres of
Phase 1 fuels reduction treatments.
2. Documentation demonstrating that the proposed treatments are fully covered by the City of
Ukiah’s adopted CEQA documents, including any required consistency findings or minor
addenda, if applicable.
3. Finalized treatment specifications or prescriptions for Phase 1 implementation, consistent
with the approved project layout and City of Ukiah CEQA requirements.
4. Implementation-ready contracts and associated bid or agreement documents developed to
meet prevailing wage requirements.
Task 4 Implementation
Implementation of up to 90 acres of fuels reduction treatments representing the Ukiah West Hills
Phase I Fuels Reduction Project, conducted in accordance with the approved Work Program,
treatment specifications, and applicable best management practices.
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Implementation Task Deliverable(s):
1. Completion of up to 90 acres of manual and mechanical fuels reduction treatments
within the Phase 1 project area.
2. Maps, photographs, and figures documenting completed treatment areas, along
with a post-implementation summary report describing the work performed.
3. Executed land access agreement(s) from the City of Ukiah authorizing
implementation activities within the project area.
4. Contractor invoices and documentation supporting completed treatment acres.
III. ENVIRONMENTAL AND PERMIT COMPLIANCE
Before starting project implementation, all necessary CEQA review must be completed and
permits must be obtained by RCD. The RCD will work with HCRCD to document
environmental and permit compliance. The State Coastal Conservancy will also review all
documents and issue their approval. When compliance is met and the Conservancy concurs,
HCRCD will issue RCD a Notice to Proceed to being implementation work. Implementation
work may not occur prior to that time.
The City of Ukiah has completed CEQA for vegetation management and related trail and access
improvements within the Western Hills Watershed Protection Area through the adopted Lookout
Peak Trails Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND). Thi s CEQA document also
covers the WHWPA Road and Fire Break Maintenance Plan and associated “fire-hardened trail”
vegetation management corridors along existing roads and planned trail alignments.
The Ukiah West Hills Phase 1 Fuels Reduction Project will be implemented entirely within the
footprint and scope analyzed in the City’s adopted CEQA documents. Treatments will consist of
shaded fuel breaks and targeted thinning along existing roads and planned trail corridors and will
be consistent with the mitigation measures and mitigation monitoring and reporting program
adopted by the City. No new stand-alone CEQA document is anticipated beyond City
consistency findings or minor addenda, if required.
IV. SCHEDULE
Work Completion Date: December 31, 2028
Final Request for Disbursement and Final Progress Report: March 1, 2029
Termination Date: April 1, 2029
The RCD will submit project deliverables to the HCRCD Program Manager as listed in the
schedule below. In the event the RCD anticipates a delay in the project schedule, the RCD shall
inform the HCRCD Program Manager by email prior to the scheduled due date of that task or
deliverable.
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Task
Number
Task Title Deliverable Estimated Start
Date
Estimated
Completion Date
2 Capacity Building • Project management and
coordination with HCRCD
• Participation in group
governance meetings
• Progress reports and final
report
• Invoices and requests for
disbursement
March 2025 Monthly –
Quarterly
throughout the
contract term
• 2 Adobe Creative Suite
licenses (2 years) April 2026
• Establish relationship w local
Tribal Nations to gauge
interest in project
involvement
January 2026
3 Planning & Project
Development
• Treatment unit layout (90
acres) April 2026
• CEQA coverage
documentation (City of
Ukiah)
• Finalized treatment
specifications or prescriptions April 2026 May 2026
• Implementation-ready
prevailing wage contracts (if
needed)
4 Implementation • 90 acres fuels reduction Sept. 2026 Apr. 2027
• Maps/photos, figures and post-
implementation summary
documentation
Sept. 2026 Jun. 2027
• Land access agreement from
City of Ukiah Jan. 2025 Jan. 2025
• Contractor invoices and
documentation supporting
completed acres
May 2027 Jun. 2027
V. BUDGET OVERVIEW
Task
Number
Task Title Coastal
Conservancy
Grant
2 Capacity Building $10,016.25
3 Planning & Project
Development
$30,948.75
4 Implementation $521,620.00
TOTAL $562,585.00
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Task
#
Task Title Budget item Budget Amt
2 Capacity Building Labor (staff time) $10,002.98
2 Capacity Building Direct Expenditures (supplies) <$5,000 $0.00
2 Capacity Building Direct Expenditures (equipment) >$5,000 $0.00
2 Capacity Building Subcontractor expenses $0.00
Travel (food, mileage, lodging) $13.27
Capacity Building Total $10,016.25
3 Planning & Project
Development
Labor (staff time) $30,008.94
3 Planning & Project
Development
Direct Expenditures (supplies) <$5,000 $900.00
3 Planning & Project
Development
Direct Expenditures (equipment) >$5,000 $0.00
3 Planning & Project
Development
Subcontractor expenses $0.00
Travel (food, mileage, lodging) $39.81
Planning & Project Dev. Total $30,948.75
4 Implementation Labor (staff time) $160,047.67
4 Implementation Direct Expenditures (supplies) <$5,000 $0.00
4 Implementation Direct Expenditures (equipment) >$5,000 $0.00
4 Implementation Subcontractor expenses $361,360.00
Travel (food, mileage, lodging) $212.33
Implementation Total $521,620.00
GRAND TOTAL $562,585.00
Travel Costs
For all travel associated with this project, MCRCD will ensure travel costs align with the
guidance provided by the State to be submitted with invoices:
https://hrmanual.calhr.ca.gov/Home/ManualItem/1/2203
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VI. PLAN FOR ACKNOWLEDGMENT
MCRCD will acknowledge State Coastal Conservancy funding for the Ukiah West Hills Phase 1
Fuels Reduction Project in coordination with the City of Ukiah and in accordance with the
Conservancy’s Acknowledgement Plan and Logo Use guidelines.
At a minimum, acknowledgment of Conservancy funding will include:
• Installation of on-site signage within the project area identifying the State Coastal Conservancy
as a funder of the project. Signage location, design, and installation will be coordinated with the
Conservancy and the City of Ukiah and will follow Conservancy branding and logo use
requirements.
• Identification of the State Coastal Conservancy as a project funder on the MCRCD website and,
where appropriate, on the City of Ukiah’s project webpages.
• At least one social media post during the project period identifying the State Coastal
Conservancy as a funder and tagging the Conservancy when applicable.
In coordination with the City of Ukiah, additional acknowledgment may include inclusion of the
Conservancy’s name and logo on printed outreach materials or newsletters associated with the
project, as appropriate.
MCRCD will share photographs and other media documenting project activities and outcomes
with the Conservancy when available. Prior to sharing media, MCRCD will consider issues of
copyright, consent, and privacy, including photographs of children or other vulnerable
populations, and will ensure that any media provided is appropriate for public use.
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Appendix C – Phase II Work Program
WORK PROGRAM
Grantee Name: Mendocino County Resource Conservation District
Project Name: Ukiah West Hills Wildfire Resiliency Project
Conservancy Grant Agreement: # G25-048
Today’s Date: March 27, 2026
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Heavy, continuous brush and dense stands of small trees along roads, ridgelines, and planned
trail corridors in the Ukiah West Hills create a high wildfire risk directly above the City of
Ukiah. Steep slopes, dense fuels, and limited safe access means a fi re starting in these hills could
spread rapidly toward neighborhoods and critical infrastructure. Existing roads and an older
ridgeline firebreak do not yet function as a connected network of safe access routes, staging
areas, or operational features for engines, crews, or aircraft. The area also lacks formal, fire-
hardened trails suitable for regular public use. The primary need is a system of well -defined,
fuel-reduced corridors that reduces exposure of nearby neighborhoods, infrastructure, and the
public to fast-moving wildfire.
The project prioritizes strategic treatment areas that reduce hazardous fuels, improve emergency
access and operational effectiveness, and support long-term maintenance of shaded fuel breaks
and management corridors. Between 270 to 340 acres will be treated by establishing shaded fuel
break corridors along existing roads, ridgelines, and planned public trails in the Ukiah West
Hills. Work will concentrate on roughly 20 miles of priority corridors, generally treating up to
100 feet from the centerline of key roads and up to 50 feet from the centerline of priority trails.
Crews will thin small trees and brush, remove dead and down material where needed, prune
lower branches to reduce ladder fuels, and dispose of slash through chipping, piling, or
prescribed burning (including pile burning) under safe, controlled conditions. Larger, healthy
trees will be retained to provide shade, slow understory regrowth, and maintain habitat values,
resulting in continuous but moderated fuels rather than a cleared strip. The outside edges of these
fuel treatments will be “feathered into” the untreated landscape, so as not to result in a hard
transition between treated and untreated areas.
The Mendocino County Resource Conservation District (MCRCD) staff will coordinate with the
City of Ukiah, CAL FIRE, and the Ukiah Valley Fire Authority (UVFA) to field -review priority
corridors; confirm treatment limits; identify access points, helicopter landing and staging areas,
and potential evacuation features; and flag sensitive resources requiring protection measures. All
vegetation treatment will be implemented consistent with existing CEQA documentation and
applicable best management practices for soil, water, air, biological, and cultural resource
protection. City and MCRCD staff will also engage Tribes, including Redwood Valley Rancheria
and Guidiville Rancheria, to explore whether there are Tribe-identified cultural heritage projects
or stewardship objectives they wish to pursue in the project area, including the potential use of
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) if Tribes elect to apply it. Tribes will determine the
scope and form of any such work; MCRCD and partners will support planning and
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implementation as requested, consistent with Tribal protocols and resource protection
requirements.
This project provides multiple benefits in a compact but highly strategic area. It reduces wildfire
risk to approximately 13,000 homes, key city facilities, and major power and communication
lines by breaking up heavy, continuous fuels within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. It
also improves firefighter safety and operational effectiveness by providing safer anchor points,
improved access, and better options for staging, egress, and evacuation during a wildfire
response. In addition, the project enhances everyday community use by transforming hard-to-
navigate open space into a safer, more accessible network of fire-hardened public trails that
better supports surrounding disadvantaged communities.
II. SCOPE OF WORK
Task 1 - Project Management
The MCRCD will provide overall project management and grant administration for the Project,
including coordination with the Conservancy Project Manager regarding project status, schedule,
budget, milestones, and issue resolution. The MCRCD will maintain an integrated execution plan
for Phase 2 to guide project sequencing, contracting, compliance integration, procurement, and
implementation tracking across the project term. The execution plan will be updated as needed to
reflect contractor availability, seasonal constraints, and field conditions, and will include
coordination with the City of Ukiah and Ukiah Valley Fire Authority regarding operational
priorities and access.
The MCRCD will manage the project budget and timeline; prepare and submit progress reports,
invoices, and requests for disbursement using Conservancy templates; and maintain project files
sufficient to support grant compliance review and audit. Prior to executing agreements for work
under this grant, MCRCD will submit the names and qualifications of proposed subcontractors
for Conservancy review and approval, consistent with Conservancy requirements. Progress
reporting will document subcontractor activities, deliverables completed, implementation
progress, compliance status, and issues encountered and proposed resolutions.
The MCRCD will complete equipment procurement and transfer consistent with Conservancy
requirements, including purchase and transfer of one Caterpillar 309 compact excavator to the
City of Ukiah. The MCRCD will maintain procurement records and document delivery,
inventory, and City acceptance.
At the end of implementation, the MCRCD will complete an administrative and technical project
closeout, including confirmation of contractor demobilization, acceptance of deliverables,
completion quantity verification, final payment processing, and submittal of the final invoice and
final report consistent with Conservancy requirements.
Task 1 - Deliverable(s):
1. Progress reports documenting completed deliverables, implementation progress,
compliance status, issues, and proposed resolutions.
2. Invoices and requests for disbursement submitted in accordance with Conservancy
requirements.
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3. Subcontractor approval and documentation files, including scopes, qualifications, and
executed agreements as required.
4. Project execution plan and implementation schedule updates, including major milestones
and decision points.
5. Budget tracking summary consistent with the approved grant budget.
6. Partner coordination records supporting sequencing and execution decisions (e.g.,
meeting notes or email summaries).
7. Procurement and transfer documentation for one Caterpillar 309 compact excavator
provided to the City of Ukiah, including procurement records as required, purchase
documentation, delivery confirmation, inventory record (asset tag or serial number), and
transfer records.
8. City/UVFA/MCRCD implementation agreement, including confirmation of site access
and acknowledgment of long-term maintenance responsibility for shaded fuel breaks and
trail buffer treatments.
9. Closeout documentation confirming completion quantities and deliverable acceptance.
10. Final payments and supporting documentation.
11. Final invoice and final report including final maps, photographs, and outcomes summary.
Task 2 - Community Outreach and Engagement
In collaboration with the City of Ukiah, MCRCD will conduct targeted public outreach and
partner coordination related to Phase 2 treatment activities. Outreach will include information on
the purpose, location, timing, and operational constraints of planned treatments. Efforts will be
coordinated with the City of Ukiah and the Ukiah Valley Fire Authority, and others as
appropriate. All public-facing materials will acknowledge Conservancy support.
MCRCD will also coordinate with the City regarding outreach to local Tribal Nations. All
outreach coordination activities will be documented.
Task 2 - Deliverable(s):
1. Outreach plan identifying audiences, communication channels, and implementation
aligned timing.
2. Outreach products as applicable (project notices, brief fact sheet, web or social updates,
press or radio copy).
3. Acknowledgement or interpretive signage content and installation with photo
documentation.
4. Outreach documentation summary suitable for inclusion in progress or final reporting,
including Tribal outreach coordination documentation as applicable (e.g., contact list
used, letters or emails transmitted, meeting notes).
Task 3 - Vegetation Treatment Planning
MCRCD will complete implementation-ready planning for Phase 2 vegetation management
activities across approximately 270 to 340 acres. Planning will include field verification and
refinement of preliminary treatment areas and corridors; development of GIS i mplementation
layers and map figures; and preparation of vegetation treatment planning materials, operational
constraints, and implementation guidance.
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Planning will develop and refine a project treatment framework that identifies treatment systems,
treatment categories, likely treatment methods, retention considerations, slash handling
approaches, access assumptions for vegetation treatment activities, and operational constraints.
This framework is intended to guide implementation planning and contracting, while allowing
treatment specifications to be adjusted based on field conditions, environmental requirements,
site access, and final City and partner coordination.
MCRCD will coordinate with the City of Ukiah and other relevant parties to confirm the
applicable CEQA pathway or coverage for proposed vegetation management activities and to
identify required pre-activity surveys, avoidance measures, seasonal restrictions, and operational
constraints. MCRCD’s role under this task is limited to incorporating applicable environmental
compliance requirements into vegetation treatment planning, contracting packages, and field
implementation guidance. MCRCD will not make CEQA determinations for unrelated trail
construction, road repair, drainage improvements, bank stabilization, or other non-vegetation
project elements.
MCRCD will prepare Requests for Proposals, scopes of work, and other implementation -ready
contracting materials, as needed, for use with the California Conservation Corps and/or qualified
vegetation management contractors, including prevailing wage-compliant scopes and agreements
where applicable.
Task 3 - Deliverables
1. Phase 2 vegetation treatment planning framework describing treatment objectives,
preliminary treatment systems and categories, planning assumptions, environmental
constraints, implementation considerations, schedule, and budget.
2. GIS data and map products suitable for implementation planning, including preliminary
treatment polygons or corridor layers, access and staging assumptions, and figures for
contracting, coordination, and reporting.
3. Draft treatment specifications or prescriptions defining likely methods, retention
considerations, slash handling approaches, and applicable BMPs, to be finalized based on
field verification and environmental compliance requirements.
4. Environmental compliance coordination materials documenting applicable CEQA
consistency requirements for the proposed vegetation management activities, including
identified survey needs, avoidance measures, seasonal restrictions, and operational
constraints for incorporation into implementation materials.
5. Implementation-ready contracting materials including draft scopes of work, bid or
selection materials if needed, and draft agreements for vegetation crews, contractors, and
required specialists.
Task 4 - Vegetation Management Execution
MCRCD will implement Phase 2 vegetation management activities using qualified crews and
contractors, which may include the California Conservation Corps and one or more professional
vegetation management contractors. Vegetation management work may include treatments
associated with shaded fuel break corridors, trail-adjacent fuel reduction areas, and other priority
vegetation treatment areas identified through Task 3 planning and field verification.
Specific treatment types, treatment widths, and treatment methods will be finalized through the
implementation planning process based on field conditions, approved specifications,
environmental compliance requirements, contractor feasibility, and available funding.
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Anticipated vegetation treatment methods may include thinning, pruning, brush treatment,
removal of dead material where needed for vegetation treatment objectives, and slash disposal
through chipping, piling, burning, or other authorized methods, where appropriate and permitted.
MCRCD will execute contracts, issue notices to proceed, coordinate pre-work kickoffs and
resource protection briefings, and provide field oversight to ensure vegetation treatment work is
consistent with approved specifications, applicable BMPs, and required environmental
compliance measures. Where required, MCRCD will coordinate biological or other specialist
support and implement applicable avoidance measures.
MCRCD’s implementation role under this task is limited to vegetation management activities
funded under the project. This task does not include trail construction, road repair, road grading,
drainage improvements, bank stabilization, or other non-vegetation infrastructure work, except to
the extent that temporary access use or vegetation clearing is necessary to conduct the approved
vegetation treatments.
MCRCD will document treated areas and track completed acres, corridor segments, or other
agreed implementation metrics to support reporting and payment processing.
Task 4 Deliverables
1. Executed implementation agreements or contracts for vegetation treatment crews,
contractors, and required specialists, as applicable.
2. Notices to proceed and pre-work documentation including kickoff meetings, resource
protection briefings, and contractor coordination records.
3. Completion of Phase 2 vegetation management treatments across approximately 270 to
340 acres, as documented through maps, photographs, and treated acreage or corridor
tracking.
4. Implementation monitoring and compliance documentation as required for vegetation
treatment activities, including survey clearance records, avoidance measures
implemented, and field compliance notes.
5. As-built GIS updates and post-implementation summary suitable for progress and final
reporting.
III. PERMIT COMPLIANCE
Before starting project implementation, all necessary permits must be obtained by RCD and the
Conservancy Project Manager must be notified with written documentation either via a Work
Program amendment or email.
Implementation Projects: Required Permits Secured
☐ Coastal or Shoreline Development Permit ☐
☐ Local Grading, Vegetation, or Other permit ☐
☐ CDFW Lake/Streambed Alteration Permit (1600) ☐
☐ CDFW California Endangered Species Act Take Authorization ☐
☐ Regional Water Quality Control Board Certification (401) ☐
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Implementation Projects: Required Permits Secured
☐ U.S. Army Corps 404 or 408 Permit ☐
☐ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Opinion ☐
☐ National Marine Fisheries Service Biological Opinion ☐
☐ Other – Please specify ☐
IV. SCHEDULE
Work Completion Date: 01/30/2028
Final Request for Disbursement and Final Progress Report: 02/28/2028
Grant Termination Date: 06/30/2028
The Grantee will submit project deliverables to the Conservancy project manager as listed in the
schedule below. In the event the Grantee anticipates a delay in the project schedule, the Grantee
shall inform the Conservancy Project Manager by email prior to the scheduled due date of that
task or deliverable.
In the event the project cannot be completed prior to the completion date of the Grant
Agreement, the Grantee shall request an extension by email, providing justification for the
extension and a revised schedule of completion. There is no guarantee that the grant agreement
will be extended.
SCHEDULE ON FOLLOWING PAGE
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Task
Number Task Title Deliverable Estimated Start
Date
Estimated
Completion Date
1 Project
Management
Progress reports documenting
completed deliverables,
implementation progress,
compliance status, issues, and
proposed resolutions
2026-04-01 Quarterly through
2028-02-28
Invoices and requests for
disbursement 2026-04-01 Quarterly through
2028-02-28
Subcontractor approval and
documentation files (scopes,
qualifications, executed
agreements)
2026-04-01 Prior to subcontractor
starting work
Project execution plan and
implementation schedule updates
(milestones and decision points)
2026-04-01 As needed through
2027-12-31
Budget tracking summary 2026-04-01 Quarterly through
2028-02-28
Partner coordination records
supporting sequencing and
execution decisions
2026-04-01 2027-12-01
Procurement and transfer
documentation: Caterpillar 309
compact excavator (purchase,
delivery, inventory, acceptance)
2026-04-01 2026-07-31
Closeout documentation
confirming completion quantities
and deliverable acceptance
2027-10-01 2027-12-31
Final payments and supporting
documentation 2027-10-01 2027-12-31
Final invoice and final report (final
maps, photos, outcomes summary) 2027-10-01 2027-12-31
2
Community
Outreach and
Engagement
Outreach plan (audiences,
channels, implementation aligned
timing)
2026-04-01 2026-06-30
Outreach products (notices, fact
sheet, web/social updates,
press/radio copy)
2026-04-01 2027-12-31
Acknowledgement/interpretive
signage content and installation
photo documentation
2026-04-01 2027-03-31
Outreach documentation summary
including tribal outreach
coordination documentation as
applicable
2026-04-01 2027-12-31
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3
Vegetation
Treatment
Planning
Phase 2 treatment plan (objectives,
methods, units/corridors, schedule,
budget) 2026-04-01 2026-06-30
GIS data and map products for
implementation (units/corridors,
access staging, figures) 2026-04-01 2026-06-30
Treatment
specifications/prescriptions
(methods, retention intent, slash,
BMPs)
2026-04-01 2026-06-30
CEQA consistency documentation;
survey/avoidance/constraints
incorporated into implementation
materials
2026-04-01 2026-06-30
Implementation-ready contracting
documents (RFPs if required;
scopes and draft agreements;
prevailing wage as applicable)
2026-04-01 2026-06-30
4
Vegetation
Management
Execution
Executed implementation
agreements or contracts and
specialist contracts as required
(e.g., biological monitoring)
2026-04-01 2027-06-30
Notices to proceed and pre work
kickoff/resource protection
briefing documentation
2026-04-01 2027-06-30
Completed fuels reduction
treatments (270–340 acres) with
maps, photos, and acres/corridor
miles tracking
2027-06-30 2027-09-30
Monitoring/compliance
documentation as required
(clearance notes, avoidance
measures)
2026-04-01 2027-12-31
As built GIS updates and post
implementation summary suitable
for reporting
2026-06-30 Continuous through
2028-02-28
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V. BUDGET OVERVIEW
Task
Number Task Title
Coastal
Conservancy
Grant
1 Project Management $298,447.42*
2 Community Outreach and
Engagement
$49,375.54
3 Vegetation Treatment
Planning
$62,961.56
4 Vegetation Management
Execution
926,172.00
Indirect Cost Rate (15%)** $163,043.48
TOTAL $1,500,000.00
*Includes $250,000.00 for Equipment
**Excludes Equipment
Grantee Required Match – No grantee match is required.
VI. BUDGET DETAIL
A. Grantee Expenditures
1) Direct Expenditures – Materials, Mileage, etc.
Project Signage
Forestry Supplies
Mileage
Printed brochures and paper maps
Radio advertising
Local advertising
2) Food
NA
3) Incidental Supplies or Personal Equipment, Clothing or Uniforms
NA
4) Vehicles or Equipment
CAT 309 with masticator head and appropriate accessories
5) Travel Costs
NA
B. Staff time/Labor
1) The MCRCD will provide backup documentation for staff time billed to the project,
including staff position, hours worked, and billing rates.
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2) The MCRCD currently uses QuickBooks to record staff time to funded projects.
3) The MCRCD will refer to SCC guidance on prevailing wage and workforce
development, including the prevailing wage memo and workforce development tips
sheet.
C. Stipends
N/A
D. Indirect Costs
Indirect costs will be billed at a rate of 15% which equals 11% of total grant cost. Equipment
costs have been excluded as is custom.
E. Insurance
Insurance information has already been provided.
F. Subcontractors
Post-selection contractor qualifications package submitted to SCC for review and approval
prior to work commencement, including the selected contractor’s website link, a summary of
qualifications relevant to the assigned scope of work, and a list of expect ed contractor
deliverables. Contractor deliverables may include contracts, receipts, invoices, treatment
verification documentation, and associated data or analysis, as applicable.
VII. PLAN FOR ACKNOWLEDGMENT
MCRCD will acknowledge State Coastal Conservancy funding for the “Ukiah West Hills
Wildfire Resiliency Project in coordination with the City of Ukiah and in accordance with the
Conservancy’s Acknowledgement Plan and Logo Use guidelines.
At a minimum, acknowledgment of Conservancy funding will include:
• On site acknowledgment signage. Installation of onsite signage within or adjacent to the
project area identifying the State Coastal Conservancy as a project funder. Signage
location, design, and installation will be coordinated with the Conservancy and the City
of Ukiah and will follow Conservancy branding and logo use requirements.
• Website acknowledgment. Identification of the State Coastal Conservancy as a project
funder on the MCRCD website and, where appropriate, on the City of Ukiah project
webpage(s), including the SCC name and logo where allowed.
• Digital outreach acknowledgment. At least one social media post during the project
period identifying the State Coastal Conservancy as a funder and tagging the
Conservancy when applicable.
In coordination with the City of Ukiah, additional acknowledgment may include:
• Public project overview meeting materials. Inclusion of the Conservancy name and
logo on meeting notices, slides, handouts, and sign in materials for a public project
overview meeting when conducted.
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• Public site tour materials. Inclusion of the Conservancy name and logo on site tour
notices or handouts when tours are conducted.
• Radio and earned media. Identification of SCC support in radio announcement copy
and in news articles or press releases about the project when produced.
• Printed outreach materials. Inclusion of the Conservancy name and logo on printed
outreach materials, flyers, or newsletters associated with the project as appropriate.
MCRCD will share photographs and other media documenting project activities and outcomes
with the Conservancy when available. Prior to sharing media, MCRCD will consider copyright,
consent, and privacy, including photographs of children or other vulnerable populations, and will
ensure that any media provided is appropriate for public use.
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA
State Coastal Conservancy
GRANT AGREEMENT
Grant - Rev 11/20
THIS AGREEMENT is entered into this day of , 2026 in the
State of California, by and between:
and
.
Pursuant to Section 31113 of Division 21 of the California Public Resources Code, the State Coastal Conservancy
(“the Conservancy”) hereby grants to Mendocino County Resource Conservation District (“the grantee”) a sum not
to exceed $1,500,000.00 (one million five hundred thousand dollars) (“funds”), subject to this agreement.
Continued on the following pages.
The provisions on the following pages constitute a part of this agreement.
This agreement has been executed by the parties as shown below.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA GRANTEE
AGENCY GRANTEE (If other than an individual, state whether a corporation, partnership, etc.)
State Coastal Conservancy Mendocino County Resource Conservation District
BY (Authorized Signature) BY (Authorized Signature)
PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON SIGNING PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON SIGNING
Amy Hutzel, Executive Officer Stephanie Garrabrant-Sierra, Executive Director
ADDRESS & PHONE NUMBER ADDRESS & PHONE NUMBER
1515 Clay Street, 10th Floor
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 286-1015
115 East Smith Street
Ukiah, CA 95482
Phone: (707) 462-3664, ext.101
AMOUNT ENCUMBERED BY
THIS DOCUMENT
$ 1,500,000.00
PROGRAM/CATEGORY
Local Assistance
FUND TITLE/PROP NO.
Prop 4 – Wildfire Resilience
I certify that this
agreement is exempt
from Department of
General Services’
approval.
Erika Gomez
Procurement and
Contracts Manager
PRIOR AMOUNT
ENCUMBERED FOR THIS
AGREEMENT
FUND ITEM
CHAPTER STATUTE FISCALYEAR
$ -0-
3760-101-6093001(H)(B1108PJ)
6/25
2024
24/25
TOTAL AMOUNT
ENCUMBERED TO DATE PROJECT NAME
$ 1,500,000.00 Ukiah West Hills Wildfire Resiliency Project
I hereby certify upon my own personal knowledge that budgeted funds are available for the period and purpose of the expenditure stated above.
NAME AND SIGNATURE OF ACCOUNTING OFFICER DATE
AGREEMENT NUMBER AM. NO.
G25-048
TAXPAYERS FEDERAL EMPLOYER
IDENTIFICATION NO.
68-0060208
AGENCY
State Coastal Conservancy
GRANTEE'S NAME
Mendocino County Resource Conservation District
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Mendocino County Resource Conservation District
Grant Agreement No. G25-048
Page 2
I. SCOPE OF AGREEMENT
The grantee shall use the funds to complete the following project (“the project”) at Ukiah West
Hills, Mendocino County, as shown on Exhibit A, which is incorporated by reference and
attached.
The project consists of fuel reduction activities on 270 to 370 acres with dense brush and trees
along trails, roads, and ridges in the Ukiah West Hills in Mendocino County. Crews will thin
small trees and brush, remove dead and down material where needed, prune lower branches to
reduce ladder fuels, and chip, pile, or burn slash in a safe, controlled way. Larger, healthy trees
will be kept to provide shade, slow understory regrowth, and maintain habitat, resulting in a
continuous but lightened fuel zone. This project includes the purchase of a mini excavator with a
masticator head that will be used to reduce fuels and aid in maintenance within the project area.
The project will include 1 to 2 community outreach events or guided walks to share information
about project design and implementation, solicit public input, and encourage public trail use. The
project will also install interpretive signage to help educate trail users on how vegetation
management can improve the area’s ecological health while increasing public safety.
The grantee shall carry out the project in accordance with this agreement. The grantee shall
provide any funds beyond those granted under this agreement that are needed to complete the
project.
II. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO COMMENCEMENT OF PROJECT AND
DISBURSEMENT
The grantee shall not begin the project and the Conservancy will not be obligated to disburse any
funds unless and until the following conditions precedent have been met:
The Board of Directors of the grantee has adopted a resolution designating positions whose
incumbents are authorized to negotiate and execute this agreement and amendments to it on
behalf of the grantee.
The Executive Officer of the Conservancy (“the Executive Officer”) has approved in writing:
a. A work program for the project, as provided in section VI. WORK PROGRAM.
b. Names and qualifications of any contractors that the grantee intends to retain in
connection with the project.
c. A plan for acknowledgment of the Conservancy funding from the Safe Drinking
Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024.
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The grantee has provided to the Conservancy:
a. A statement identifying and confirming that it has obtained all permits and approvals
necessary to the completion of the project under applicable local, state, and federal
laws and regulations.
b. Evidence that the grantee has provided for required insurance coverage, including
additional insured endorsement, as described in section XIII. INSURANCE.
c. A complete project budget that identifies the estimated costs to complete the project
and all sources of funding for the project.
d. The grantee has written permission to carry out the project from the landowner of the
project site.
III. ADDITIONAL GRANT CONDITIONS
The grantee shall also meet the following conditions:
1. If the funds are used to purchase equipment that costs $5,000 or more, each such piece of
equipment is a “grant-funded equipment.” The grantee shall operate and maintain each grant-
funded equipment for wildfire resilience related purposes during its useful life. If the grantee
determines that it no longer has need for the grant-funded equipment before the end of the
equipment’s useful life, the grantee shall donate the grant-funded equipment to a public
entity or nonprofit organization that will use the grant-funded equipment for wildfire-related
purposes. For the duration of the useful life of each grant-funded equipment, the grantee shall
maintain a record identifying each grant-funded equipment, the expected useful life of each
item, and the ultimate disposition (disposal or donation). The requirements of this section
will survive termination of this agreement.
2. Prescribed burns. If the project includes a prescribed burn, the grantee shall employ a burn
boss certified under Public Resources Code Section 4477 to review and approve a written
prescription of the burn that includes adequate risk mitigation measures. The grantee shall
ensure that the prescribed burn is conducted in compliance with the written prescription. The
grantee may employ a cultural fire practitioner in lieu of a certified burn boss for any cultural
burns the grantee conducts. The grantee shall provide all people participating in burns with
N95 or KN95 masks and a brief written description of health hazards associated with smoke
inhalation. The grantee shall also ensure that the burn is authorized pursuant to Chapter 6
(commencing with Section 4411) or Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 4461) of Part 2 of
Division 4 of the Public Resources Code, and that the burn is conducted in compliance with
any air quality permit required pursuant to Article 3 (commencing with Section 41850) of
Chapter 3 of Part 4 of Division 26 of the Health and Safety Code.
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3. Implementation data reporting. If the project includes conducting any type of wildfire
resiliency treatment, the grantee shall enter data regarding each treatment into the SCC
Vegetation Management Treatment Reporting Tool in accordance with the instructions that
accompany the Tool. The grantee shall enter data at the frequency of reporting specified in
the work program.
The tool is located online here:
https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/971844556add4685a0c8ed7adf5c8aec
The instructions for using the tool are located online here:
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/2034f74ea27c4818b3fe0aceaeaec742
IV. TERM OF AGREEMENT
This agreement will take effect when signed by both parties and received in the offices of the
Conservancy together with the resolution described in section II. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT
TO COMMENCEMENT OF PROJECT AND DISBURSEMENT. This agreement may be
signed electronically using a process specified by the Conservancy.
The grantee shall complete all work by January 30, 2028 (“the completion date”).
The grantee shall deliver a final Request for Disbursement to the Conservancy no later than
February 28, 2028.
This agreement terminates on June 30, 2028 (“the termination date”).
V. AUTHORIZATION
The signature of the Executive Officer of the Conservancy on this agreement certifies that at its
February 19, 2026 meeting, the Conservancy adopted the resolution included in the staff
recommendation attached as Exhibit B. This agreement is executed under that authorization.
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Grant Agreement No. G25-048
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Standard Provisions
VI. WORK PROGRAM
Before beginning work on the project, the grantee shall submit a detailed work program to the
Executive Officer for review and written approval of its consistency with the purposes of this
grant agreement. The work program must include:
Plans showing the scope, scale and methods to be used for the project.
If applicable, identification of frequency of reporting project data in the SCC Vegetation
Management Treatment Reporting Tool, which frequency must not be less than annually.
A schedule of completion for the project specifically listing the date for completing each
project component and showing how the project will be completed by the completion date.
A budget that identifies how the grantee will use the funds granted under this agreement,
including the labor, materials, contractor, and indirect costs to be paid for with the funds
granted under this agreement (“work program budget”).
If all or any part of the project to be funded under this agreement will be performed by third
parties (“contractors”) under contract with the grantee, the grantee shall submit to the Executive
Officer for review and approval the names and qualifications of the contractors.
The work program will have the same effect as if included in the text of this agreement.
However, the work program may be modified without amendment of this agreement upon the
grantee’s submission of a modified work program and the Executive Officer’s written approval
of it. If this agreement and the work program are inconsistent, this agreement will control.
The grantee shall construct the project in accordance with the approved work program.
VII. COSTS AND DISBURSEMENTS
When the Conservancy determines that all conditions in section II. CONDITIONS
PRECEDENT TO COMMENCEMENT OF PROJECT AND DISBURSEMENT have been fully
met, the Conservancy shall disburse to the grantee a total amount not to exceed the amount
granted under this agreement, in accordance with work program and this section.
A. Timing of Disbursement
The Conservancy will disburse funds after the grantee has incurred costs and expenses, upon the
grantee’s satisfactory progress under the approved work program and upon grantee’s submission
of a “Request for Disbursement” form. The Conservancy will not disburse the final five percent
or $100,000 of the funds granted under this agreement, whichever is lower, until the grantee has
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Grant Agreement No. G25-048
Page 6
complied with section IX. PROJECT COMPLETION and the Conservancy has accepted the
project.
B. Payable Costs and Expenses
The Conservancy will only disburse funds for these costs and expenses incurred to carry out the
project:
1. Grantee’s staff time, provided that hourly rates for grantee’s staff time billed to the
Conservancy may not exceed the actual compensation paid by grantee to employees, which
may include employee benefits. The grantee shall require its employees to keep records of
their time spent on the project for purposes of documenting the employee time billed to the
Conservancy.
2. Grantee’s travel and related expenses in accordance with the rates set forth in “SCC Travel
Reimbursement Rates for Grants and Contracts,” as posted on the Conservancy’s website at
scc.ca.gov.
3. Costs charged to the grantee by its contractors.
4. Other necessary direct costs that are reasonable in nature and amount, taking into account the
nature of the project, its location, and other relevant factors.
5. Grantee’s indirect costs as identified in the work program budget.
Notwithstanding any other provision, after the grantee has satisfied the conditions precedent to
commencement of the project set forth in section II. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO
COMMENCEMENT OF PROJECT AND DISBURSEMENT, the grantee may request
reimbursement, and the Conservancy may reimburse grantee, for grantee’s costs to satisfy the
conditions precedent.
C. Requesting Disbursement
The grantee shall request disbursements by filing with the Conservancy a fully executed
“Request for Disbursement” form (available from the Conservancy). The grantee shall include
in the form its name and address, the number of this agreement, the date of the submission, the
amount of the invoice, the period during which the work was actually done, and an itemized
description, including time, materials, and expenses incurred, of all work done for which
disbursement is requested. The form must be limited to work done, including work by
contractors, in one Conservancy fiscal year, which is July 1 through June 30 of the following
year. Work that spans two Conservancy fiscal years must be separated into two Requests for
Disbursement, one for each fiscal year. The form must also indicate cumulative expenditures to
date, expenditures during the reporting period, and the unexpended balance of funds under the
grant agreement.
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An authorized representative of the grantee must sign the form. Each form must be accompanied
by:
All receipts and any other source documents for direct expenditures and costs that the grantee
has incurred.
Invoices from contractors (showing work done in only one Conservancy fiscal year) and any
receipts and any other source documents for costs incurred and expenditures by any such
contractor, unless the Executive Officer makes a specific exemption in writing.
A progress report summarizing the current status of the project and the work for which the
grantee is requesting disbursement.
The grantee shall submit requests for disbursement no more frequently than monthly and no less
frequently than quarterly. The grantee’s failure to fully execute and submit one or more
Requests for Disbursement with all supporting documents in accordance with this section, will
relieve the Conservancy of its obligation to disburse funds to the grantee until the grantee
corrects all deficiencies.
VIII. EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS AND ALLOCATION OF FUNDING AMONG
BUDGET ITEMS
No increase in the total amount of this grant will be valid unless set forth in a written amendment
to this agreement. The grantee shall expend funds consistent with the approved project
budget. Expenditure on items contained in the approved project budget, other than overhead and
indirect costs, may vary by as much as ten percent without prior approval by the Executive
Officer, provided that the grantee first submits a revised budget to the Conservancy and requests
disbursement based on the revised budget. Any deviation greater than ten percent, and any
deviation that shifts funds from approved budget items into an overhead or indirect costs
category, must be identified in a revised budget approved in advance and in writing by the
Executive Officer. The Conservancy may withhold payment for items that exceed the amount
allocated in the project budget by more than ten percent and that have not received the approval
required above. Any increase in the funding for any particular budget item will mean a decrease
in the funding for one or more other budget items unless there is a written amendment to this
agreement.
IX. PROJECT COMPLETION
Upon completion of the project, the grantee shall supply the Conservancy with evidence of
completion by submitting a final report by the final Request for Disbursement date set forth in
section IV. TERM OF AGREEMENT that includes:
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A report certifying completion of the project according to the approved work program,
including photographs documenting project completion.
A fully executed final “Request for Disbursement.” A final “Request for Disbursement”
means a Request for Disbursement that includes the withheld amounts and all remaining
amounts for which grantee is entitled to seek payment, if any, pursuant to this agreement.
If applicable, a final list of grant-funded equipment and the useful life of each item.
If applicable, a final report describing the project work completed with the grant-funded
equipment.
The Conservancy shall determine whether the grantee has satisfactorily completed the project. If
so, the Conservancy shall issue to the grantee a letter of acceptance of the project and release the
withheld amount pursuant to section VII. COSTS AND DISBURSEMENTS. The project will
be deemed complete as of the date of the letter.
X. EARLY TERMINATION, SUSPENSION AND FAILURE TO PERFORM
Before the project has commenced, either party may terminate this agreement for any reason by
providing the other party with seven days notice in writing.
Before the project is complete, the Conservancy may terminate this agreement for any reason by
providing the grantee with thirty days notice in writing. Before the project is complete, the
Conservancy may suspend this agreement for any reason by providing the grantee with seven
days notice in writing. In either case, the grantee shall immediately stop work under the
agreement and take all reasonable measures to prevent further costs to the Conservancy. The
Conservancy will be responsible for any reasonable and non-cancelable obligations incurred by
the grantee in the performance of this agreement prior to the date of the notice to terminate or
suspend, but only up to the undisbursed balance of funding authorized in this agreement. Any
notice suspending work under this agreement will remain in effect until further written notice
from the Conservancy authorizes work to resume.
If the grantee fails to complete the project as required, or fails to fulfill any other obligations of
this agreement prior to the termination date, the grantee will be liable for immediate repayment
to the Conservancy of all amounts disbursed by the Conservancy under this agreement. The
Conservancy may, at its sole discretion, consider extenuating circumstances and not require
repayment for work partially completed. This paragraph does not limit any other remedies the
Conservancy may have for breach of this agreement.
Before the project is complete, the grantee may terminate this agreement for any reason by
giving the Conservancy thirty days’ prior written notice and repaying to the Conservancy all
amounts disbursed by the Conservancy under this agreement. The Conservancy may, at its sole
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discretion, consider extenuating circumstances and allow early termination without repayment
for work partially completed.
The parties expressly agree to waive, release and relinquish the recovery of any consequential
damages that may arise out of the termination or suspension of this agreement under this section.
The grantee shall include in any agreement with any contractor retained for work under this
agreement a provision that entitles the grantee to suspend or terminate the agreement with the
contractor for any reason on written notice and on the same terms and conditions specified in this
section.
XI. INSPECTION
Throughout the term of this agreement, the Conservancy has the right to inspect the project area
to ascertain compliance with this agreement.
XII. INDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS
The grantee shall be responsible for, indemnify and hold harmless the Conservancy, its officers,
agents, and employees from any and all liabilities, claims, demands, damages, or costs,
including, without limitation, litigation costs and attorneys fees, resulting from or arising out of
the willful or negligent acts or omissions of the grantee, its officers, agents, contractors,
subcontractors, and employees, or in any way connected with or incident to this agreement,
except for the active negligence of the Conservancy, its officers, agents, or employees. This
agreement supersedes any right the grantee may have as a public entity to indemnity and
contribution as provided in Gov. Code Sections 895 et seq.
The grantee waives any and all rights to any type of express or implied indemnity or right of
contribution from the State, its officers, agents, or employees, for any liability resulting from,
growing out of, or in any way connected with or incident to this agreement.
Nothing in this agreement is intended to create in the public or in any member of it rights as a
third-party beneficiary under this agreement.
The obligations in this section XII. INDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS will
survive termination of this agreement.
XIII. INSURANCE
Throughout the term of this agreement, the grantee shall procure and maintain insurance, as
specified in this section, against claims for injuries to persons or damage to property that may
arise from or in connection with any activities by the grantee or its agents, representatives,
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employees, volunteers, or contractors associated with the project undertaken pursuant to this
agreement.
Minimum Scope of Insurance. Coverage shall be at least as broad as:
a. Insurance Services Office (“ISO”) Commercial General Liability coverage,
occurrence basis (Form CG 00 01) or comparable.
b. Automobile Liability coverage: ISO Form Number CA 0001, Code 1 (any auto).
c. Workers’ Compensation insurance as required by the Labor Code of the State of
California.
Minimum Limits of Insurance. The grantee shall maintain coverage limits no less than:
a. General Liability:
(Including operations,
products and completed
operations, as applicable)
$1,000,000 per occurrence for bodily injury,
personal injury and property damage.
b. Automobile Liability: $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury and
property damage.
c. Worker’s Compensation: Worker’s compensation as required by law.
Deductibles and Self-Insured Retentions. Any deductibles or self-insured retentions must be
declared to and approved by the Executive Officer.
Waiver of Subrogation. The grantee hereby grants to the State of California, its officers,
agents, employees, and volunteers, a waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of
the grantee may acquire against the State of California, its officers, agents, employees, and
volunteers, by virtue of the payment of any loss under such insurance. Grantee agrees to
obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to effect this waiver of subrogation, but this
provision applies regardless of whether or not the grantee has received a waiver of
subrogation endorsement from the insurer.
Acceptability of Insurers. Insurance shall be placed with insurers admitted to transact
business in the State of California and having a current Best’s rating of “B+:VII” or better or,
in the alternative, acceptable to the Conservancy and approved in writing by the Executive
Officer.
Verification of Coverage. The grantee shall furnish the Conservancy with original certificates
and amendatory endorsements, or copies of the applicable policy language, effecting
coverage required by this clause. All certificates and endorsements are to be received and
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approved by the Executive Officer before work commences. The Conservancy reserves the
right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, including
endorsements affecting the coverage, at any time.
Contractors. The grantee shall require each contractor to provide and maintain coverage
consistent with the requirements of this section. To the extent generally available, grantee
shall also require each professional contractor to provide and maintain Errors and Omissions
Liability insurance appropriate to the contractor’s profession and in a reasonable amount in
light of the nature of the project.
Premiums and Assessments. The Conservancy is not responsible for premiums and
assessments on any insurance policy.
XIV. AUDITS/ACCOUNTING/RECORDS
The grantee shall maintain financial accounts, documents, and records (collectively, “required
records”) relating to this agreement, in accordance with the guidelines of “Generally Accepted
Accounting Principles” (“GAAP”) published by the American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants. The required records include, without limitation, evidence sufficient to reflect
properly the amount, receipt, deposit, and disbursement of all funds related to implementation of
the project, time and effort reports, and supporting documents that permit tracing from the
request for disbursement forms to the accounting records and to the supporting documentation.
The Conservancy or its agents may review, obtain, and copy all required records. The grantee
shall provide the Conservancy, California State Auditor, their officers, employees, and agents
with any relevant information requested and with access to the grantee’s premises upon
reasonable notice, during normal business hours, to interview employees and inspect and copy
books, records, accounts, and other material that may be relevant to a matter under investigation
for the purpose of determining compliance with this agreement and any applicable laws and
regulations.
The grantee shall retain the required records for a minimum of three years following final
disbursement by the Conservancy. The records will be subject to examination and audit by the
Conservancy and the California State Auditor during the retention period.
If the grantee retains any contractors to accomplish any of the work of this agreement, the
grantee shall first enter into an agreement with each contractor requiring the contractor to meet
the terms of this section and to make the terms applicable to all subcontractors.
The Conservancy may disallow all or part of the cost of any activity or action that it determines
to be not in compliance with the requirements of this agreement.
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XV. NONDISCRIMINATION
During the performance of this agreement, the grantee and its contractors shall not deny the
agreement’s benefits to any person on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin,
ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital
status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and
veteran status, nor shall they discriminate unlawfully against any employee or applicant for
employment because of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability,
mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender
identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status. The grantee
shall ensure that the evaluation and treatment of employees and applicants for employment are
free of such discrimination. The grantee and contractors shall comply with the provisions of the
Fair Employment and Housing Act (Gov. Code §12900 et seq.), the regulations promulgated
thereunder (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, §11000 et seq.), the provisions of Article 9.5, Chapter 1, Part
1, Division 3, Title 2 of the Government Code (Gov. Code §§11135-11139.5), and the
regulations or standards adopted by the Conservancy to implement such article. The grantee
shall permit access by representatives of the Department of Fair Employment and Housing and
the Conservancy upon reasonable notice at any time during the normal business hours, but in no
case less than 24 hours’ notice, to such of its books, records, accounts, and all other sources of
information and its facilities as said Department or the Conservancy shall require to ascertain
compliance with this clause. The grantee and its contractors shall give written notice of their
obligations under this clause to labor organizations with which they have a collective bargaining
or other agreement. (See Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, §11105.)
The grantee shall include the nondiscrimination and compliance provisions of this clause in all
contracts to perform work under this agreement.
XVI. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
By signing this agreement, grantee certifies that it is in compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, (42 U.S.C., 12101 et seq.), which prohibits discrimination on
the basis of disability, as well as all applicable regulations and guidelines issued pursuant to the
ADA.
XVII. PREVAILING WAGE
Work done under this grant agreement may be subject to the prevailing wage and other related
requirements of the California Labor Code, Division 2, Part 7, Chapter 1, Sections 1720-1861.
If required by law to do so, the grantee shall pay prevailing wage to all persons employed in the
performance of any part of the project and otherwise comply with all associated requirements
and obligations.
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The grantee is responsible for determining whether the project is subject to prevailing wage laws,
and for complying with all labor laws applicable to the project. The grantee may also review the
Conservancy publication, “Information on Prevailing Wage Laws for State Coastal Conservancy
Grantees” (2023), available from the Conservancy on request, which provides general
information and is not legal advice to the grantee on whether the grantee’s project is subject to
prevailing wage laws.
XVIII. DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE
The grantee’s signature on this agreement constitutes the certification required by Government
Code Section 8355 (Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990), which requires that all state grantees
provide a drug-free workplace by doing all of the following:
Publishing a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution,
dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the person’s or
organization’s workplace and specifying actions that will be taken against employees for
violations of the prohibition.
Establishing a drug-free awareness program to inform employees about all of the following:
a. The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace.
b. The person’s or organization’s policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace.
c. Any available drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs.
d. The penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations.
Requiring that each employee engaged in the performance of the grant be given a copy of the
drug-free workplace statement and that, as a condition of employment on the grant, the
employee agrees to abide by the terms of the statement.
XIX. EXECUTIVE ORDER N-6-22 – RUSSIA SANCTIONS
On March 4, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-6-22 (“the EO”)
regarding Economic Sanctions against Russia and Russian entities and individuals. “Economic
Sanctions” refers to sanctions imposed by the U.S. government in response to Russia’s actions in
Ukraine, as well as any sanctions imposed under state law. The EO directs state agencies to
terminate contracts with, and to refrain from entering any new contracts with, individuals or
entities that are determined to be a target of Economic Sanctions. Accordingly, should the
Conservancy determine the grantee is a target of Economic Sanctions or is conducting prohibited
transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, that shall be grounds for termination of this
agreement. The Conservancy shall provide the grantee advance written notice of such
termination, allowing the grantee at least 30 calendar days to provide a written response.
Termination shall be at the sole discretion of the Conservancy.
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XX. INDEPENDENT CAPACITY
The grantee, and the agents and employees of grantee, in the performance of this agreement, are
acting in an independent capacity and not as officers or employees or agents of the State of
California.
XXI. ASSIGNMENT
Without the written consent of the Executive Officer, the grantee may not assign this agreement
in whole or in part.
XXII. TIMELINESS
Time is of the essence in this agreement.
XXIII. EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S DESIGNEE
The Executive Officer shall designate a Conservancy project manager who will have authority to
act on behalf of the Executive Officer with respect to this agreement.
The designated project manager shall notify the grantee of the designation in writing.
XXIV. AMENDMENT
Except as expressly provided in this agreement, no changes in this agreement will be valid unless
made in writing and signed by the parties to the agreement. No oral understanding or agreement
not incorporated in this agreement will be binding on any of the parties.
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Exhibit A: Project Location Map
Project Locations
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Ukiah Western Hills Watershed Protection Area (WPA) in yellow; Project Area is within WPA.
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2696 ft
2770 ftGibsonCreek
2422 ft Do
olin
Cr
e
ek
2083 ft
Dool a n C a n y o n Dr
D o o lin Creek GardensAveHelenAveDoolan Canyon Dr
D o olan
Ca n y on D rL u c e
A
v
e
H illview A ve
Co chran e A v e
D o o l i n C r e e k22002200 22002200220022002200220024002400 240024002400240080080020002000 10001000220022001000100022002200
1600160022002200
2
4
0
0
2
4
0
0 1200120018
0
0
18
0
020002000220022002400240018001800 1600160018001800
180018001200120020002000
22
0
0
22
0
0
16001600260026002
4
0
0
2
4
0
0
2
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
26002600
1800180026002600160
0
160
024002400220022002400240026
0
0
2
6
0
0
1400140018001800
22
0
0
22
0
0
140014001600160080080012001200
20002000
Sources: Esri, TomTom, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS, (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User
Community, USGS National Map 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). July 14, 2025.
Maps prepared for informational purposes only. Image depicts a
combination of publicly available data and observations made of
on-the-ground conditions at the time of the site visit. No liability
is assumed for the accuracy of the information or data displayed.
All lines are approximate.
Disclaimer Language ¯
UKIAH WEST HILLS PROJECT
Client: SCC/City of Ukiah/MCRCD Property Size: 750 acres Location: Ukiah, Mendocino County, CA Map: Planning
Legend
Property_Boundary
City Parcels
Public_Roads
Private_Roads
FRAP_Streams
Contours_200
Contours_40
ShadedFuelBreak_road
Lookout Peak Trails Buffer - 50ft
Gateway Trails Buffer - 50ft
0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000500
Feet
11/18/2025Scale is 1:14,000 1 inch = 1,167 feet
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COASTAL CONSERVANCY
Staff Recommendation
February 19, 2026
UKIAH WEST HILLS WILDFIRE RESILIENCY PROJECT
Project Number: 25-061-01
Project Manager: Lilly Allen
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorization to disburse up to $1,500,000 to the Mendocino County
Resource Conservation District to implement the Ukiah West Hills Project, which consists of
reducing fuels on 270-370 acres in the Ukiah Western Hills in Mendocino County.
LOCATION: Mendocino County
EXHIBITS
Exhibit 1: Project Location Maps
Exhibit 2: Project Photos
Exhibit 3: Project Letters Of Support
RESOLUTION AND FINDINGS
Staff recommends that the State Coastal Conservancy adopt the following resolution and
findings.
Resolution:
The State Coastal Conservancy hereby authorizes: disbursement of a total amount not to
exceed one million five hundred thousand dollars ($1,500,000) to the Mendocino County
Resource Conservation District (“grantee”) to implement the Ukiah West Hills Project, which
consists of reducing fuels on 270-370 acres in the Ukiah Western Hills in Mendocino County
(the “project”).
Prior to commencement of the project, the grantee shall submit for the review and written
approval of the Executive Officer of the Conservancy (Executive Officer) the following:
A detailed work program, schedule, and budget.
Names and qualifications of any contractors to be retained in carrying out the project.
Exhibit B: Staff Recommendation
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A plan for acknowledgement of Conservancy funding from the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire
Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024.
Evidence that all permits and approvals required to implement the project have been obtained.
Evidence that the grantee has entered into any agreements necessary to enable the grantee to
implement the project.
Additionally, pursuant to its April 18, 2024 authorization to disburse funds to the Humboldt
County Resource Conservation District for purposes of awarding grants to public entities and
nonprofit organizations for wildfire resilience projects, the Conserva ncy authorizes the
Humboldt County Resource Conservation District to award a subgrant to the grantee for the
project.
Findings:
Based on the accompanying staff recommendation and attached exhibits, the State Coastal
Conservancy hereby finds that:
1. The proposed authorization is consistent with Chapter 3 of Division 21 of the Public
Resources Code regarding the Climate Ready Program.
2. The proposed project is consistent with the current Conservancy Project Selection Criteria.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
PROJECT SUMMARY:
Staff recommends the Conservancy authorize a grant of up to $1,500,000 to the Mendocino
County Resource Conservation District (the “Mendocino County RCD”) to implement the Ukiah
West Hills Project, which consists of reducing fuels on 270-370 acres in the Ukiah Western Hills
in Mendocino County (the “project”).
The project will implement vegetation management activities to increase wildfire resilience of
California’s forests, grasslands, and natural lands and to reduce fire risk to communities. The
project includes treatment of 270-370 acres with dense brush and trees along trails, roads, and
ridges in the Ukiah Western Hills. The project area is open space that was acquired on April 1,
2025, by the City of Ukiah (the “City”). The project area is located directly to the west of the
City in the wildland urban interface and is currently considered a Very High Fire Hazard Severity
Zone by CAL FIRE. The project area is characterized by heavy, continuous brush and small trees
that create a high wildfire risk directly adjacent to the City. Steep slopes, dense fuels, and
limited safe access routes mean that a fire starting in these hills could move quickly toward
neighborhoods and infrastructure. Fuel reduction along roads and trails in the project area will
reduce the probability of ignition.
This project will increase wildfire resiliency by thinning vegetation along fuel breaks, trails,
roads, and staging areas. Crews will thin small trees and brush, remove dead and down material
where needed, prune lower branches to reduce ladder fuels, and c hip, pile, or burn slash in a
safe, controlled way. Larger, healthy trees will be kept to provide shade, slow understory
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regrowth, and maintain habitat, resulting in a continuous but lightened fuel zone rather than a
clearcut strip. This work will help address the wildfire risk of the project area and vicinity while
providing access for the public and for emergency responders. The City and the Ukiah Valley
Fire Authority will maintain the shaded fuel breaks and trail corridors after the project ends. To
aid in maintenance, this project includes the purchase of a mini excavator with masticator
head.
The project will include 1–2 community outreach events or guided walks to share information
about project design and implementation, solicit public input, and encourage public trail use.
The project will also install interpretive signage to help educate trail users on how vegetation
management can improve the area’s ecological health while increasing public safety
Site Description:
The project will take place on land owned by the City, located directly west of the City, in the
Western Hills Watershed Protection Area (Exhibit 1). The City is currently in the process of
implementing a passive use public access trail system in the proje ct area. The area consists of
steep, mostly undeveloped hills, populated by oak woodland and chamise chaparral. Oak
woodland in the project area is dominated by Interior Live Oak, as well as Douglas-fir, Gray
Pine, Blue Oak, and Oregon White Oak. Chaparral in the project area is dominated by chamise,
common and whiteleaf manzanita, wedgeleaf ceanothus, shrubby California Buckeye, birchleaf
mountain mahogany, huckleberry oak and shrub oaks such as scrub, canyon live, and sadler
oaks. Slopes rise sharply from the valley floor to the main ridge above town and lie immediately
upslope of about 13,000 homes, city facilities, and major power and communication lines. The
City is a disadvantaged community.
Grant Applicant Qualifications: The Mendocino County RCD’s Forest Health and Resilience
Program has extensive experience administering multimillion-dollar public grants and
implementing large-scale vegetation management, forest health, and wildfire risk reduction
projects throughout Mendocino County. Mendocino County RCD staff have successfully
managed several CAL FIRE Forest Health Grant–funded projects, including the completed
Northern Mendocino County Forest Health Collaborative ($5.65 million), which treated over
2,000 acres of forested landscapes on Bureau of Land Management and Usal Redwood Forest
properties. The Mendocino County RCD currently manages the Leonard Lake Reserve and
Montgomery Woods State Reserve Forest Health Collaborative ($7.3 million), which is treating
approximately 2,100 acres of dense forests and shrublands. These projects require
comprehensive grant administration, including budgeting, contractor oversight, interagency
coordination, progress reporting, and compliance with state and federal requirements.
Collectively, this experience positions the Mendocino County RCD to provide strong fiduciary
oversight, effective project management, and timely, accountable delivery of public grant
funds.
CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY’S PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA:
The proposed project is consistent with the Conservancy’s Project Selection Criteria, last
updated on September 23, 2021, in the following respects:
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Selection Criteria
1. Extent to which the projects help the Conservancy accomplish the objectives in the
Strategic Plan.
See the “Consistency with Conservancy’s Strategic Plan” section below.
2. Projects are a good investment of state resources.
The proposed project is a good investment of state funding. The project is feasible, has a
reasonable budget, and addresses a demonstrated need for wildfire resilience. The project
implements many statewide wildfire and forest resiliency goals. The proposed project is also
consistent with several state plans, and specifically with the following:
• California’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan (Governor’s Forest Management
Task Force, January 2021), which calls for activities such as fuels reduction, forest
thinning, vegetation management, prescribed fire, shaded fuel breaks, defensible space,
and enhancement of fire-prone habitats to reduce fire risk.
• The California Forest Carbon Plan (California Natural Resources Agency, 2018), which
calls for restoration of the natural fire regime and forest composition through a
multitude of approaches including thinning, prescribed burns, invasive vegetation
management, and shaded fuel breaks.
• The Community Wildfire Prevention & Mitigation Report (CAL FIRE, 2019), which urges
state and local agencies to implement the goals of the Forest Carbon Plan and provides
recommendations to agencies to increase the scale and pace of management and
mitigation actions to improve forest health and resiliency.
3. Project benefits will be sustainable or resilient over the project lifespan.
The proposed project will help increase fire resiliency in the context of anticipated climate
change. Fire resilience is a critical issue due to increased average temperatures, reduced marine
fog and longer and more severe droughts. California is facing unprecedented fire risk due to
climate change, a growing populace and an increasing number of people living in high fire risk
areas, including areas adjacent to wildlands.
This project helps address an immediate wildfire risk in hills near a community and includes
long-term investments that will enable wildfire resilience work to continue through equipment
purchases.
4. Projects deliver multiple benefits and significant positive impact.
The proposed project was selected because it is a multi-benefit project that will reduce the risk
of catastrophic wildfire impacts to communities, while protecting trails from fire risk for public
recreation.
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5. Projects planned with meaningful community engagement and broad community
support.
There is enormous public support for wildfire risk reduction. A 2025 poll by the Public Policy
Institute found that 81% of Californians are concerned about wildfire risk. The proposed project
will engage with local communities to promote planning and implementation.
PROJECT FINANCING
State Coastal Conservancy (this authorization) $1,500,000
State Coastal Conservancy - North Coast Wildfire Resilience Planning
and Implementation Grant (previous authorization) $400,000
Project Total $1,900,000
The anticipated source of funding is an appropriation to the Conservancy from Chapter 3 of the
Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of
2024 codified at Public Resources Code section 90000, et seq. and refer red to as the 2024
Climate Bond or Proposition 4. Chapter 3 of the 2024 Climate Bond authorizes the Conservancy
to use the funds for “watershed improvement, wildfire resilience, chaparral and forest
restoration, and workforce development that addresses nee ds related to this subdivision and is
designed to create career pathways for individuals from disadvantaged communities, severely
disadvantaged communities, or vulnerable populations.” (Public Resources Code section
91520(k)). The proposed project is consistent with the funding source because it will increase
wildfire resilience of lands and communities.
On April 18, 2024, the Conservancy authorized a $6,000,000 block grant to the Humboldt
County Resource Conservation District (the “Humboldt RCD”) for it to make subgrants to other
resource conservation districts for planning and implementing wildfire resil ience projects.
Pursuant to that block grant, this project will be funded in part by a $400,000 subgrant from
Humboldt RCD. To comply with the terms of the block grant, the Humboldt RCD requested
Conservancy approval of the subgrant to the Mendocino County RCD.
Unless specifically identified as “Required Match,” the other sources of funding and in -kind
contributions described above are estimates. The Conservancy does not typically require
matching funds or in-kind services, nor does it require documentation of expenditures from
other funders or of in-kind services. Typical grant conditions require grantees to provide any
funds needed to complete a project.
CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY’S ENABLING LEGISLATION:
The project will be undertaken pursuant to Section 31113 of Chapter 3 of Division 21 of the
Public Resources Code, which authorizes the Conservancy to address the impacts and potential
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impacts of climate change on resources within the Conservancy’s jurisdiction (Section
31113(a)).
Pursuant to Section 31113(b), the Conservancy is authorized to award grants to nonprofit
organizations and public agencies to undertake projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions
and address extreme weather events, sea level rise, flooding, and other coastal hazards that
threaten coastal communities, infrastructure, and natural resources.
Pursuant to Section 31113(c), the Conservancy must prioritize grants for projects that maximize
public benefits and have one of several purposes, including reducing emissions of greenhouse
gases and preserving natural lands.
Consistent with these sections, the proposed project will restore the health and resilience of
California forests and chaparral and reduce fire risk to the City, a disadvantaged community.
The project will help natural lands to be more resilient to catastrophic wildfires which may
ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions released from increased wildfires due to climate
change.
CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY’S 2023-2027 STRATEGIC PLAN:
Consistent with Goal 1.1, Commit Funding to Benefit Systemically Excluded Communities, the
proposed project will benefit the disadvantaged community of Ukiah.
Consistent with Goal 4.2 Wildfire Resilience Projects, the proposed project will reduce fuel
loads adjacent to roads and trails, increasing wildfire resiliency.
CEQA COMPLIANCE:
The proposed project is categorically exempt under 14 California Code of Regulations Section
15304 (Minor Alterations to Land) because it involves fuel reduction and vegetation
management without the removal of healthy, mature, or scenic trees. Tree removal is limited to
small diameter trees and understory vegetation to reduce ladder fuels. Larger trees will be kept
to provide shade and maintain habitat.
Upon approval of the project, Conservancy staff will file a Notice of Exemption.
Docusign Envelope ID: 7EA4A8D2-BF57-866F-83F0-21A1196F10A7