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HomeMy WebLinkAbout_9.6(a)--Consider approval of the City of Redding Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project., CITY OF REDDING REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: April 4, 2023 FROM: Chuck Aukland, Public ITEM NO. 9.6(a) Works Director ***APPROVED BY*** ukland, Public Warks Direct 3/10/2423 ry ippin, Ci ana e : 3/28/2423 caukland&i.redding.ca.us btippin@cityofredding.org SUBJECT: 9.6(a) --Consider approval of the City of Redding Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. Recommendation Approve and authorize the following actions relative to the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project: (1) Adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration and the Mitigation Monitoring and Environmental Commitment Program (Attachment C); (2) Approve the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project as described, and find it satisfies the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines § 15074; and (3) Direct Staff to return to City Council, once necessary permits are obtained, for further direction relative to proceeding with the project. Fiscal Impact There is no fiscal impact as a direct result of approving the project and adopting the Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) and Mitigation Monitoring Program (MMP). The City of Redding (City) received $311,000 in grant funding from the Wildlife Conservation Board's Public Access Grant Program for the planning, design, and permitting of the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project (project). As matching funds, the City appropriated $30,000 from the Park Development Fund for a total project budget of $341,000. The City will seek grant funding for the construction phase of the project. Alternative Action The City Council (Council) may choose not to adopt the MND and the MMP and not approve the project as described. The project could not proceed without the approval of these documents, as, in that case, it would not comply with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. Report to Redding City Council March 30, 2023 Re: 9.6(a) --Approval of the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 2 Background/Analysis The Turtle Bay Boat Launch Facility and floating dock were originally built in 1969 and improved in 2005 with a new floating dock and expanded parking with 25 pull-through boat trailer stalls. In the last decade, boating activity in Redding has seen a steady rise, and this stretch of the river provides a world-class fly-fishing experience. With the Sacramento River drawing local, regional, and international visitors, the City's use data indicates the ramp's popularity has contributed to an over -capacity condition, as the narrow launch ramp does not allow two boats to efficiently launch at one time. The existing facility lacks capacity, a designated area to launch drift boats, and an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant restroom. The proposed project would include a widened, two-lane boat ramp, an extension of the existing floating dock, and a new boating access beach adjacent to the ramp for drift boats and non - motorized vessel launching. The project would also include: additional boat trailer parking stalls, an ADA -compliant restroom, drinking fountain, wastewater line extension and replacement, extension of the Sacramento River Trail and bike paths through the site, storm water and irrigated landscape improvements, and an ADA access ramp to the new beach. Adjacent to the trail will be a small overlook area with picnic tables. If ultimately approved, the work would include earthwork, grading, new structures, drainage and utility modification, tree removal, tree planting, paving, lighting, striping, gates, fencing, security systems, and sign installation. Funding limitations may require some project amenities to be phased. An Initial Study (IS) was prepared to satisfy the requirements of the CEQA. It describes why the project is being proposed and the potential impacts to the existing environment. The IS shows that the proposed project could have a significant effect on biological resources, but with implementation of mitigation measures, those impacts will be reduced to a level considered less than significant. The mitigation measures and conservation measures to be implemented are common practices and include, but are not limited to, biological pre -construction surveys, in - water work windows, water quality monitoring, impact minimization, exclusionary fencing, and erosion control. Based on the conclusions made in the IS, an MND was prepared. The MND describes the project, including mitigation measures, and makes the determination that there will be no significant effect on the environment provided that the defined mitigation measures are implemented as part of the project. In addition, an MMP has been written and incorporated into the MND (CEQA Section 21081.6). The MMP will be used by City staff, contractors, agencies, and monitoring personnel during and after the project to ensure effective implementation of the adopted mitigation measures outlined in the MND. The IS/MND/MMP documents were sent to the State Clearinghouse for a 30 -day public review period and distribution to pertinent State agencies. They were sent to local resource agencies, the Shasta County Clerk, and posted on the Public Works Department website. A public notice was also sent to landowners in the vicinity of the project and posted in the local newspaper. Four comment letters were received during the public review period. Approval of the project and associated MND and MMP will allow staff to move toward final design. Report to Redding City Council March 30, 2023 Re: 9.6(a) --Approval of the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 3 Environmental Review The City of Redding is the lead agency for the project pursuant to CEQA. As the lead CEQA agency, the Council is authorized to adopt the MND per Redding Municipal Code Section §18.24.070.E and State law. Upon adoption of the MND and approval of the project by the Council, a Notice of Determination will be filed with the Shasta County Clerk's Office and the State Clearinghouse, thereby completing the environmental review process. The IS/MND is available in the Public Works Department and is currently available online at https://www.cityofredding,or�/der)artments/t,)ublic-works/environmental-Iggaggei-nent. Council Priority/City Manager Goals 0 This agenda item is a routine operational item. Attachments /,Location Map ITB; Boat Ramp - Rodeo lease exhibit MND—IS—MMP for Turtle Bay Ramp Project Pape Size ANSI A 6 015 63 645 9.6 �Ir�g Map F ejection. Laanil Ccoforma! conic F canzonW Datum h Amen cam 1983 GHd NAD 1983 SRaOlane Cafibrma 11 FIPS 0402 Feet ' rf Redding N furtlay Boat Ramp WE MEN Improvement Project Vicjnq Ma r -T• Cama axaen'r..fi lotan l'hKU"'4T1'.tdall—M LgpUw�..lTans{.aataU.,n i:rtx4e�, 61'SG`na�:y:, Ear a»Tk:�X rGIN Ma¢ee'hUYd T%-'pvw Mai-Ik,4Ia,sGa'A"iso-Maw PA, E}95 KE RF G�f` 541 fvu.1RA LR3Cq,I Project No. 12558750 Revision No. - Date 31912622 OEMM lw=UAU= We M rzlKv4ypQ#-m TURTLE BAY BOAT RAMP PROJECT (STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NO. 2023020064) SUBJECT Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project PROJECT DESCRIPTION The City of Redding Community Services Department (City) is proposing the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. The existing facility lacks capacity, a designated area to launch drift boats, and an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant restroom. The proposed Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project (project) would include a widened, two-lane boat ramp, an extension of the existing floating dock, and a new boating access beach adjacent the ramp for drift boats and non -motorized vessel launching. The project would also include additional boat trailer parking stalls, an ADA -compliant restroom, drinking fountain, wastewater line extension and replacement, extension of the Sacramento River Trail and bike paths through the site, storm water and irrigated landscape improvements, and an ADA access ramp to the new beach. Adjacent to the trail there will be a small overlook area with picnic tables. Work involves earthwork, grading, new structures, drainage and utility modification, tree removal, tree planting, paving, lighting, striping, gates, fencing, security systems, and sign installation. Construction of the project is anticipated to take approximately 10 months. Staging of equipment and materials would be within the project boundaries. A narrow sliver of adjacent property would need to be acquired for the project, and construction is anticipated to occur in 2025. Construction may occur earlier if all approvals are obtained and funding is available; however, funding limitations may require some project amenities to be phased. ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The project area is bounded by the Sacramento River to the north, Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park to the east, Redding Memorial Park to the west, and the rodeo grounds and associated parking to the south. The project area primarily consists of two parking lots; a graded and graveled one to the east (Figure 3), and a paved western lot that serves that boat ramp. The two lots are connected by Aoki Way, a paved road. There is a fenced dirt area south of Aoki Way, which is part of the rodeo grounds. The boat ramp is an excavated ramp sloping down to the Sacramento River. A riparian corridor and forested hilly terrain exists along the Sacramento River and towards the western extent of the project area. FINDINGS AND DETERMINATION The City of Redding conducted an Initial Study (attached) that determined that the proposed project could have significant environmental effects on biological resources. Implementation of specific mitigation measures identified below will avoid or mitigate the potentially significant environmental effects identified, and the preparation of an environmental impact report will not be required. If there are Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 1 March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigated Negative Declaration substantial changes that alter the character or impacts of the proposed project, another environmental impact determination will be necessary. Prior to approval of the project, the lead agency may conclude, at a public hearing, that certain mitigation measures identified in the Mitigated Negative Declaration are infeasible or undesirable. In accordance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Section 15074. 1, the lead agency may delete those mitigation measures and substitute other measures that it determines are equivalent or more effective. The lead agency would adopt written findings that the new measure(s) is(are) equivalent or more effective in mitigating or avoiding potential significant effects and that it would not cause any potentially significant effect on the environment. 1) Based on the whole record (including the Initial Study and any supporting documentation) and the mitigation measures incorporated into the project, the City of Redding has determined that there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment. 2) The Mitigated Negative Declaration, with its supporting documentation, reflects the independent judgment and analysis of the lead agency, which is the City of Redding. FOOTRUMNWITF = The attached Initial Study documents the reasons to support the above determination. The following mitigation measures will be incorporated into the project to minimize potential effects on biological resources: MM -1. All in -water work shall occur during April 1 through June 30 to avoid peak times when listed juvenile anadromous fish would be present. MM -2. Prior to any in -water work, qualified fish biologists, in consultation with CDFW, shall utilize seine netting to work from the edge of water, outward just before berm construction to remove any individuals that could be within the work area. No handling of fish shall occur. Prior to completion of the gravel berm, the area will be surveyed and seined again by qualified fish biologists to ensure absence of fish in the work area. The berm will serve as a barrier to the in -water portion of the project area. After the gravel berm is constructed, the work pad may be constructed. MM -3. Prior to any placement of gravel in water, heavy equipment operation practices shall be implemented that minimize the potential for injury or death of listed fish species, including alerting fish to equipment operation in the channel before gravel is placed in the water (i.e. slow, deliberate equipment operation and gently tapping water surface prior to entering or placing gravels in the river channel). MM -4. The gravel berm and work pad shall be constructed out of 3/4 -inch minus, silt free, clean, spawning -grade gravel that meets Caltrans' cleanness test (California Test No. 227) with a value of 85 or higher. Upon construction completion, the gravel berm would be breached and the gravel pad and berm would be left in place to provide the benefit of approximately 236 cubic yards of spawning grade gravels to augment spawning opportunities for salmon. Page 2 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Mitigated Negative Declaration Public Works Department, Engineering Division MM -5. Twenty-four hours (24 -hours) prior to initiation of ground disturbance or vegetation removal within 50 -feet of suitable reptile and/or amphibian habitat (i.e., Sacramento River and riparian areas), a qualified biologist shall perform a pre -construction survey for western pond turtle, their nests, and foothill yellow -legged frog. If western pond turtles, their nests, or yellow -legged frog are encountered in the project area during construction and could be harmed by construction activities, work will stop immediately in the area and CDFW will be notified. Upon authorization from CDFW, a qualified biologist may relocate the individual(s) the shortest distance possible to a location containing habitat outside of the construction impact zone. MM -6. If construction or vegetation removal occurs during the nesting season, February 1 through August 31 for birds and November 1 through July 15 for raptors, a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre - construction survey to locate active nests. The pre -construction survey will be performed no more than 7 days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities occurs for 7 days or longer, another pre -construction survey will be performed. If an active nest is found, a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a buffer zone to be established around the nest. MM -7. Removal of large trees (10 -inch dbh or greater) with cavities, crevices, or snags shall occur before maternity colonies form (i.e., prior to March 1) or after young are volant (i.e., after August 15). If construction (including the removal of large trees) occurs during the non-volant season (March 1 through August 15), a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey of the project area to locate maternity colonies and identify measures to protect the colonies from disturbance. The pre -construction survey will be performed no more than seven days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities for seven days or longer occurs between those dates, another pre - construction survey will be performed. If a maternity colony is found a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a construction -free buffer zone to be established around the nest. Draft copies or notice of this Mitigated Negative Declaration were distributed to: ■ State Clearinghouse ■ Shasta County Clerk ■ California Department of Transportation District 2 ■ California Department of Fish and Wildlife District 1 ■ California State Lands Commission ■ Central Valley Flood Protection Board ■ Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board—Region 5 (Redding) ■ California Highway Patrol ■ Native American Heritage Commission ■ State Office of Historic Preservation ■ All property owners within 300 feet of the property boundary Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 3 March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division r t (X) Draft document referred for comments 21212023 — 31312023 Date ( ) No comments were received during the public review period. Mitigated Negative Declaration ( ) Comments were received but did not address the draft Mitigated Negative Declaration findings or the accuracy/completeness of the Initial Study. No response is necessary. The letters are attached. (X) Comments addressing the findings of the draft Mitigated Negative Declaration and/or accuracy or completeness of the Initial Study were received during the public review period. The letters and responses follow (see Attachment D, Response to Comments). Copies of the Mitigated Negative Declaration, the Initial Study, documentation materials, and the Mitigation Monitoring Program may be obtained at the Public Works Department, Engineering Division, City of Redding, 777 Cypress Avenue, Redding, CA 96001. Contact: Amber Kelley, Environmental Compliance Manager, (530) 225-4046 or akelley@cityofredding.org. i Digitally signed by Amber Kelley DN: cn=Amber Kelley, o=City of Redding, Date of AmberKel ou-Public Works, Engineering, 7- - email=akelley@cityofredding.org, c=US Draft Report: February 1, 2023 By: Date: 2023.03.061631: 13-08'00' Name/ Title: Amber Kelley Environmental Compliance Manager Date of Final Report: March 6, 2023 Attachments: A. Vicinity Map B. Initial Study C. Mitigation Monitoring and Environmental Commitment Program D. Comments and Response to Comments (if any) Page 4 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Vicinity Map Pape Size ANSI A 6 015 63 645 9.6 �Ir�g Map F ejection. Laanil Ccoforma! conic F canzonW Datum h Amen cam 1983 GHd NAD 1983 SRaOlane Cafibrma 11 FIPS 0402 Feet ' rf Redding N furtlay Boat Ramp WE MEN Improvement Project Vicjnq Ma r -T• Cama axaen'r..fi lotan l'hKU"'4T1'.tdall—M LgpUw�..lTans{.aataU.,n i:rtx4e�, 61'SG`na�:y:, Ear a»Tk:�X rGIN Ma¢ee'hUYd T%-'pvw Mai-Ik,4Ia,sGa'A"iso-Maw PA, E}95 KE RF G�f` 541 fvu.1RA LR3Cq,I Project No. 12558750 Revision No. - Date 31912622 Initial Study CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT 1IMNUM-11tel Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project State Clearinghouse No. 2023020064 Prepared by: CITY OF REDDING Public Works Department 777 Cypress Avenue Redding, California 96001. March 2023 CITY OF REDDING ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1. Project Title: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project (proposed project) 2. Lead agency name and address: CITY OF REDDING Public Works Department 777 Cypress Avenue Redding, CA 96001 Contact Person and Phone Number: Amber Kelley, Environmental Compliance Manager, (530) 225-4046 4. Project Location: The proposed project is in central Redding, Shasta County, California. The Project is at the Turtle Bay Boat Launch located at 720 Auditorium Drive, Redding, CA 96001, in the Redding, California, 7.5 -minute U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle in Township 32N, Range 05W, Section 36 (40.59057, -122.38293). The Boat Launch is approximately 0.30 miles west of the Turtle Bay Exploration Park. 5. Applicant's Name and Address: Travis Menne City of Redding Community Services Department 777 Cypress Avenue Redding, CA 96001 6. General Plan Designation: ■ Public Facility (PF) 7. Zoning: Representative's Name and Address: Amber Kelley City of Redding Public Works Department 777 Cypress Avenue Redding, CA 96001 ■ Public Facility — Specific Plan Overlay District (PF -SP) 8. Description of Project: The Turtle Bay Boat Launch Facility boat ramp and floating dock were originally built in 1969 as a launch point for fishing and non -motorized recreational watercraft on the Sacramento River. The boat launch site currently covers approximately 59,720 square feet (sf) (1.37 acres [ac]) and currently includes a single -lane boat ramp, boat access dock, public restroom, parking stalls, and area lighting. In 2004/2005, the facility was upgraded with a new floating dock and expanded parking with 25 pull-through boat trailer stalls. In the last decade, boating activity in Redding has Page 1 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division seen a steady rise, and this stretch of the river provides a world-class fly-fishing experience. With the Sacramento River drawing local, regional, and international visitors, the City's use data indicates the ramp's popularity has contributed to an over -capacity condition, as the narrow launch ramp does not allow two boats to efficiently launch at one time. According to the City, users of the facility have expressed concern for the lack of capacity and the floating dock's inadequacy for use by drift boats, which are extremely common in the river. In addition, the original on-site restroom does not have the capacity to serve the heavy use of the prime fly-fishing season nor is it compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. The City's Community Services Department is proposing to improve the existing Turtle Bay Boat Launch Facility to increase the capacity of recreational boating offerings to meet demand. The proposed Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project (project) would include a widened, two-lane boat ramp, an extension of the existing floating dock, and a new boating access beach adjacent the ramp for drift boats and non -motorized vessel launching. The project would also include additional boat trailer parking stalls, an ADA -compliant restroom, wastewater line extension and replacement, extension of the Sacramento River Trail and bike paths through the site, storm water and irrigated landscape improvements, and an ADA access ramp to the new beach. Adjacent to the trail there will be a small overlook area with picnic tables. Work involves earthwork, grading, new structures, drainage and utility modification, tree removal, tree planting, paving, lighting, striping, gates, fencing, security systems, and sign installation. The existing boat ramp would be resurfaced with a pre -cast concrete V -groove finish to improve traction and safety among users and widened by approximately 3 -feet to include two 15 -feet wide lanes. The proposed extended portion of the boat ramp is approximately 3 -feet wide by 34 -feet in length. The existing floating dock located on the eastern side of the boat ramp would be extended with an additional section. An additional pile would be installed to hold the new extended dock section in place. The proposed extended section is approximately 8.5 -feet wide and 24 -feet long, and the new piling would be approximately 10.75 inches in diameter. The single piling would be installed using a "cast -in -drilled -hole pile" method, or vibrationally pushed in via an excavator. The proposed drift boat beach area is in an area of low-lying riverbank located west of the existing boat ramp. Grading of the drift boat beach area would occur below the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM), and would amount to disturbance of approximately 2,500 square feet. Approximately 1.85 cubic yards of fill would be excavated and removed from the drift boat beach. This material would be hauled to a nearby landfill. Geogrid fabric (or similar) would be incorporated into the drift boat beach area and would be revegetated with grass. Higher elevation wooded terrain occurs adjacent to the proposed drift boat beach area. A retaining wall would be constructed within the elevated bank west of the existing boat ramp to create the drift boat beach area. The retaining wall would require up to 65 piles to be inserted along the eastern and northern margins of the drift boat beach area. Piles would be installed using a "cast -in -drilled -hole pile" method. It is likely that each pile would be spaced five to six feet from the other and would be pushed 16 feet below surface and remain 8 feet above surface. Pile driving would not occur. Page 2 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study To construct the in -water project elements equipment would utilize the existing concrete boat ramp to reach work areas. However, if the equipment cannot reach work areas from the concrete boat ramp, then a temporary gravel working pad would be constructed to enable equipment access. Prior to in -water work, seine netting of the boat launch inlet area would be conducted by qualified biologists to clear fish out of the work area. The biologists would walk into the water holding a large net and gently encourage the fish out of the work area. A gravel berm would then be constructed in a semi -circle, at the mouth of the boat launch inlet, out of silt -free spawning grade gravel to exclude fish from the work area and to provide sediment control for the project. The berm would be approximately 150 feet long and 8 feet wide at the base. The berm would be constructed using an excavator operated on the existing concrete boat ramp (as feasible) or from the proposed drift boat beach area. Prior to completion of the gravel berm, a section of the gravel berm would be intentionally left unfinished and seine netting would be conducted again to ensure fish are not trapped within the work area. The unfinished portion of the gravel berm would be filled in with gravel and completed following seine netting, resulting in a work area free of fish. No fish would be handled during this process. After the gravel berm is constructed, a temporary gravel work pad would be constructed within the work area to enable an excavator to reach areas inaccessible from the existing boat ramp or drift boat beach area. The temporary gravel work pad would also be constructed out of clean, silt - free spawning grade gravel and would be approximately 18 -feet wide. The gravel berm and gravel work pad would remain in place for the minimum time required to complete the in -water work. Following construction and once sediment from construction activities has settled, the gravel berm would be breached using the bucket of the excavator, and the gravel berm and gravel work pad would remain to be washed downstream during future high-water flows. Some of the gravel may be moved further into the Sacramento River to enable a boating access pathway from the boat ramp, floating dock, and drift boat beach area. The gravel (to be washed downstream) would act as an enhancement to salmon spawning habitat. An existing natural kayak launch, approximately 500 feet downstream, would be decommissioned to protect salmonid redds. The area would be planted with native vegetation and boulders (or some other barrier) may be used to prevent access. The new drift boat beach would replace the existing kayak launch. The existing parking lot would be expanded to the east, and in total the entire parking lot would include storm water and landscaping improvements, new area lighting, 40 pull-through boat trailer stalls and 5 standard parking stalls. Two of the pull-through stalls and one of the standard stalls would be ADA accessible. The area of proposed parking lot expansion to the east includes 23,515 square feet (0.54 ac) of previously disturbed graveled area adjacent to the existing parking lot. The expanded parking lot would be resurfaced with pavement to match the existing parking lot. An ADA -accessible pathway is proposed between the ADA parking stalls and the beginning of the boat launch and drift boat beach area, and a shaded fish cleaning station may be installed. The Page 3 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Sacramento River Trail is proposed to be extended through the project site to increase access opportunities for users including cyclist and pedestrians. A new four -unit ADA accessible restroom is proposed and will likely be located southwest of the boat ramp. Higher elevation wooded terrain occurs adjacent to the proposed drift boat beach area. A retaining wall would be constructed within the elevated bank west of the existing boat ramp to create the drift boat beach area. The retaining wall would require up to 65 piles to be inserted along the eastern and northern margins of the drift boat beach area. Piles would be installed using a "cast -in -drilled -hole pile" approach, which typically includes drilling 36 -inch diameter holes into the soil, followed by placement of the piles and filling the hole in the pile with concrete. It is likely that each pile would be spaced five to six feet from the other and would be pushed 16 feet below surface and remain 8 feet above surface. Pile driving would not occur. Geogrid fabric (or similar) would be incorporated into the drift boat beach area and would be revegetated with grass. Construction of the project is anticipated to take approximately 10 months. Staging of equipment and materials would be within the project boundaries. A narrow sliver of adjacent property would need to be acquired for the project, and construction is anticipated to occur in 2025. Construction may occur earlier if all approvals are obtained and funding is available; however, funding limitations may require some project amenities to be phased. 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: The project area is located on what was historically low-lying, gravelly, alluvial land, bordered along the west by a river terrace. The terrace is about 30 feet above the project area. The terrain in the project area is flat with elevations generally between 490 and 500 feet above sea level. The project area is bounded by the Sacramento River to the north, Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park to the east, Redding Memorial Park to the west, and the rodeo grounds and associated parking to the south. The project area primarily consists of two parking lots; a graded and graveled one to the east (Figure 3), and a paved western lot that serves that boat ramp. The two lots are connected by Aoki Way, a paved road. There is a fenced dirt area south of Aoki Way, which is part of the rodeo grounds. The boat ramp is an excavated ramp sloping down to the Sacramento River. A riparian corridor and forested hilly terrain exists along the Sacramento River and towards the western extent of the project area. 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement): ■ U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ■ National Marine Fisheries Service ■ State Office of Historic Preservation ■ California Department of Fish and Wildlife ■ California Regional Water Quality Control Board ■ Central. Valley Flood Protection Board ■ State Lands Commission Page 4 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study 11. Have California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with the project area requested consultation pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.3.1? If so, is there a plan for consultation that includes, for example, the determination of significance of impacts to tribal cultural resources, procedures regarding confidentiality, etc.? The City consulted with the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) and local Native American groups and individuals pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.3. This consultation included contacting the local Native American individuals identified by the NAHC via letters, emails, and follow-up phone calls. Two local Native American tribes responded, and consultation is ongoing. Additionally, NAHC conducted a review of its Sacred Lands database for culturally significant properties and indicated that the results were negative. Page 5 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 DETERMINATION (TO BE COMPLETED BY THE LEAD AGENCY) Based on the initial evaluation: ❑ I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ® I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. Page 6 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Initial Study Public Works Department, Engineering Division ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" or "Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Agricultural and Air Quality Forestry Resources x Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy Geology/Soils Greenhouse Gas Hazards & Hazardous Emissions Materials .. .. Hydrology/Water Land Use/Planning Mineral Resources Quality Noise Population/Housing I Public Services .. Recreation _ Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources ... .. Utilities/ServiceWildfire x Mandatory Findings of .. Systems Significance DETERMINATION (TO BE COMPLETED BY THE LEAD AGENCY) Based on the initial evaluation: ❑ I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ® I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. Page 6 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study ❑, I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. 1 find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR of NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. Copies of the Initial Study and related materials and documentation may be obtained at the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department, 777 Cypress Avenue, Redding, CA 96001. Contact Amber Kelley at (530) 225-4046 or akelley@cityofredding.org. Amber Kelley Date Environmental Compliance Manj Public Works — Engineering Page 7 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS This section analyzes the potential environmental impacts associated with the proposed project. The issue areas evaluated in this Initial Study include: ■ Aesthetics ■ Agricultural and Forestry Resources ■ Air Quality ■ Biological Resources ■ Cultural Resources ■ Energy ■ Geology/Soils ■ Greenhouse Gas Emissions ■ Hazards & Hazardous Materials ■ Hydrology/Water Quality ■ Land Use/Planning ■ Mineral Resources ■ Noise ■ Population/Housing ■ Public Services ■ Recreation ■ Transportation ■ Tribal Cultural Resources ■ Utilities/Service Systems ■ Wildfire ■ Mandatory Findings of Significance The environmental analysis in this section is patterned after the Initial Study Checklist recommended by the State of California's CEQA Guidelines and used by the City of Redding in its environmental review process. For the preliminary environmental assessment undertaken as part of this Initial Study's preparation, a determination that there is a potential for significant effects indicates the need to analyze the development's impacts more fully and to identify mitigation. For the evaluation of potential impacts, the questions in the Initial Study Checklist are stated and an answer is provided according to the analysis undertaken as part of the Initial. Study. The analysis considers the long-term, direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of the development. To each question, there are four possible responses: ® No Impact. The development will not have any measurable environmental impact on the environment. ® Less -Than -Significant Impact. The development will have the potential for impacting the environment although this impact will be below established thresholds that are significant. ® Less -Than- Significant with Mitigation Incorporated. The development will have the potential to generate impacts which may be considered as a significant effect on the environment; however, mitigation measures or changes to the development's physical or operational characteristics can reduce these impacts to levels that are less than significant. ® Potentially Significant Impact. The development will have impacts which are considered significant, and additional analysis is required to identify mitigation measures that could reduce these impacts to less -than -significant levels. Where potential impacts are anticipated to be significant, mitigation measures will be required so that impacts may be avoided or reduced to insignificant levels. Page 8 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Prior environmental evaluations applicable to all or part of the project site: Initial Study City of Redding General Plan, 2000 City of Redding General Plan Final Environmental Impact Report, 2000, SCH #1998072103 List of Attachments/References Appendix A: Figure 1 Appendix B: Biological Resources Report, GHD Consulting 2022* Appendix C: Biological Assessment, GHD Consulting 2022* Appendix D: Technical Memorandum, GHD Consulting 2022* Appendix E: Aquatic Resources Delineation Report, GHD 2022* Appendix E: Archaeological Resources Study, Anthropological Studies Center, Sonoma State University 2022* * Appendices are on file in the Public Works Department — Engineering Division Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 9 February 2023 City of Redding Initial Study Public Works Department, Engineering Division I. AESTHETICS Discussion a) During the construction period, construction workers, vehicles, and equipment, including heavy machinery, would be present and visible to recreational visitors in the area. Construction activities involves earthwork, grading, new structures, drainage modification, utility modification tree removal, tree planting, paving, lighting, striping, and sign installation. Once construction is completed, the project area would be restored to pre -project conditions. The proposed project would not represent a significant change to scenic vistas or the overall scenic quality of the area. The impact would be less than significant. b) The proposed project is not located within, or adjacent to, a state -designated scenic highway (California Department of Transportation 2022) and would, therefore, have no impacts. c) The proposed project would be compatible with the existing visual character of the property and its surroundings. Project components would be consistent with the surrounding visual environment, which has been subjected to urban development and recreational open space uses. Further, construction staging areas would be temporary. The proposed project would not conflict with the City's goal to maintain a "proper balance between development areas and the natural environment" (City of Redding 2009); therefore, impacts of the proposed project on the existing visual character and quality of existing views would be less than significant. d) Construction of the proposed project may involve the use of temporary safety and security lighting in staging areas. Temporary construction lighting will comply with the City's Zoning Page 10 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Except as provided in Public Resources Code Section Significant Mitigation Significant 21099, would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic El El ® El vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and El El El M historic buildings within a state scenic highway? e) In non -urbanized areas, substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views the site and its surroundings (public views are those that are experience from publicly accessible El vantage point).? If the project is in an urbanized area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime ❑ ❑ ® ❑ views in the area? Discussion a) During the construction period, construction workers, vehicles, and equipment, including heavy machinery, would be present and visible to recreational visitors in the area. Construction activities involves earthwork, grading, new structures, drainage modification, utility modification tree removal, tree planting, paving, lighting, striping, and sign installation. Once construction is completed, the project area would be restored to pre -project conditions. The proposed project would not represent a significant change to scenic vistas or the overall scenic quality of the area. The impact would be less than significant. b) The proposed project is not located within, or adjacent to, a state -designated scenic highway (California Department of Transportation 2022) and would, therefore, have no impacts. c) The proposed project would be compatible with the existing visual character of the property and its surroundings. Project components would be consistent with the surrounding visual environment, which has been subjected to urban development and recreational open space uses. Further, construction staging areas would be temporary. The proposed project would not conflict with the City's goal to maintain a "proper balance between development areas and the natural environment" (City of Redding 2009); therefore, impacts of the proposed project on the existing visual character and quality of existing views would be less than significant. d) Construction of the proposed project may involve the use of temporary safety and security lighting in staging areas. Temporary construction lighting will comply with the City's Zoning Page 10 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study Ordinance light standards that require light shielding (City of Redding 201.9). Project lighting would be consistent with existing lighting sources used on area roads and trails. The lights will produce light at 1.0 lux or less and will be shielded, directing light only to areas of intended illumination. Potential glare from reflective signage, pavement striping, and trail surfaces would be similar to levels emitted by existing parking areas and trails. Construction equipment, machinery, and bright colored traffic control signage may temporarily increase light and glare in the project area during construction. Operational and construction impacts on day or nighttime views in the area because of project lighting would be less than significant. Documentation California Department of Transportation. 2022. California Scenic Highway Mapping System — Shasta County. Available at: http://www.dot.ca. og v/hq/LandArch/16 livability/scenic highways/. City of Redding. 2019. Municipal Code — Zoning Ordinance Chapter 18.40.090. City of Redding. 2009. General Plan — Community Development and Design Element. Mitigation No mitigation required. II. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural, Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Mode (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state's inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Less -Than - Assessment project; and forest carbon measurement Potentially Significant with Less -Than - methodology provided bin Forest Protocols adopted by Significant Mitigation Significant the California Air Resources Board. Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland 0 0 0 Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, El El El or a Williamson Act Contract? Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 11 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural, Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Mode (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state's inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Less -Than - Assessment project; and forest carbon measurement Potentially Significant with Less -Than - methodology provided bin Forest Protocols adopted by Significant Mitigation Significant the California Air Resources Board. Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact e) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g)), timberland (as 0 0 0 defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(8))? d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of 0 0 0 forest land to non -forest use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result 0 0 0 in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non -forest use? Discussion a -e) The project area does not include any designated farmland or timberlands. According to the California Department of Conservation's Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, no lands within the project area are under Williamson Act contracts and no lands are mapped as "Important Farmlands." The proposed project would not convert any farmland to non- agricultural use, or any forestland to non -forest use; therefore, there would be no impact. Documentation City of Redding. 2009. General Plan — Natural Resources Element. City of Redding. 2022. GIS Parcel and Zoning Map Viewer. California Department of Conservation. 2018. Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, Shasta County Important Farmland. Mitigation No mitigation required. Page 12 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division III. AIR QUALITY Initial Study Where available, the significance criteria established Less -Than - by the applicable air quality management district or air Potentially Significant with Less -Than - pollution control district may be relied upon to make Significant Mitigation Significant the following determinations. Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the El El El applicable air quality plan? b) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project ❑ ❑ ® ❑ region is non -attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard? e) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant ❑ ❑ ® ❑ concentrations? d) Result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of ❑ ❑ ❑ people? Discussion a,b) City standards implemented through the Grading Ordinance and Uniform Building Code require implementation of conservation measures and best management practices (BMPs) that contribute to achieving the City's goal of at least a 20% reduction in emissions or the best reduction otherwise feasible. The following standard conservation measures and BMPs will be used during construction to limit dust and particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter (PMIo) emissions: ■ AQ -1. Nontoxic soil stabilizers shall be applied according to manufacturer's specification to all inactive construction areas. ■ AQ -2. All grading operations shall be suspended when winds (as instantaneous gusts) exceed 20 miles per hour. ■ AQ -3. Water all stockpiles, access roads, and disturbed or exposed areas, as necessary, to prevent airborne dust. ■ AQ -4. Pursuant to the California Vehicle Code (Section 23114(e)(4)) (California Legislative Information 2016), all trucks hauling soil and other loose material to and from the construction site shall be covered or shall maintain at least 6 inches of freeboard (i.e., minimum vertical distance between top of load and the trailer). ■ AQ -5. All public roadways used by the project contractor shall be maintained free from dust, dirt, and debris caused by construction activities. Streets shall be swept at the end of the day if visible soil materials are carried onto adjacent public paved roads. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 13 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Shasta County, including the far northern Sacramento Valley, currently exceeds the state's ambient standards for ozone (smog) (CARB 2020). Consequently, these pollutants are the focus of local air quality policy, especially when related to land use and transportation planning. Even with application of measures to reduce emissions for individual projects, cumulative impacts are unavoidable when ozone emissions are involved. For example, the primary source of emissions contributing to ozone is from vehicles. Any project that generates vehicle trips has the potential to incrementally contribute to the problem. The Environmental Impact Report for the City's General Plan acknowledged this dilemma; and as a result, the City Council adopted Findings and a Statement of Overriding Considerations for impacts on air quality resulting from growth supported under the General Plan (City of Redding 2009). Construction equipment would result in limited temporary emissions of Reactive Organic Gases (ROG) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx), which are ozone precursors, and inhalable PMio. The proposed project would be under construction for approximately 10 months. Because the proposed project is a recreational project with a relatively small footprint requiring limited construction activities and equipment for its construction, it would be classified as a minor project in accordance with the City's General Plan findings. The adherence to standards and BMPs set forth by the City further illustrates the size and scope of construction activities that would result in unmitigated emissions less than the 25 pounds per day of NOx, 25 pounds per day of ROG, and 80 pounds per day of PMIo Level "A" mitigation thresholds identified as part of the City's General Plan. The proposed project would be consistent with the City's emission - reduction goals of 20 to 25% established in the Air Quality Element of the General Plan. The proposed project would have no impact on air quality plans or policies. The proposed project's cumulative contribution to criteria pollutants in a non -attainment area would be less than significant with the use of the conservation measures and BMPs (AQ -1 through AQ -6) previously described). c,d) Construction vehicles would generate fugitive dust and diesel exhaust emissions. There are approximately 40 residences that would be adjacent to construction activities with several that could be as close as 100 feet from the construction area. Additionally, recreational users at Cascade Park could be considered sensitive receptors; however, these receptors would have limited exposure since use of the park occurs in intermittent phases (rather than prolonged exposure). Impacts on the neighboring residents as well as park users because of construction emissions would be temporary, localized, and minor. Construction activities would occur in a linear nature, and no sensitive receptors would be substantially affected for prolonged periods of time. Adherence with City specifications outlined in BMPs AQ -1 through AQ -6 would further reduce overall emissions exposure to residents and park users. No operational emissions, including odor, would result from the proposed project. There are no other sensitive receptors (e.g., hospitals, schools) in the immediate project vicinity. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant. Documentation California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2020. Area Designation Maps/State and National. Accessed at: https://www.arb.ca.gov/desi/adm/adm.htm. June. City of Redding. 2009. General Plan, Air Quality Element. Page 14 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study City of Redding. 2000. CEQA Findings of Pact and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the City of Redding General Plan Final Environmental Impact Report, as adopted by the Redding City Council on October 3, 2000, by Resolution 2000-166. Shasta County Air Quality Management District. 2003. Protocol for Review, Land Use Permitting Activities, Procedures for Implementing the California Environmental Quality Act. November. Shasta County Air Quality Management District. 2003. Environmental Review Guidelines, Procedures for Implementing the California Environmental Quality Act. November. Mitigation No mitigation required. IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 15 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special - status species in local or regional plans, policies, ❑ ® ❑ ❑ or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, 0 0 ® 0 regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? e) Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) ❑ ❑ ® ❑ through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or ❑ ❑ ® ❑ migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree ❑ ❑ ❑ preservation policy or ordinance? Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 15 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a) A Biological Resources Report (GHD 2022), including a summary of findings for the protocol - level botanical survey, a habitat assessment survey for VELB, a biological reconnaissance survey, and delineation of waters of the United States, was prepared to assess the impacts of the proposed project on biological resources in the project area and vicinity. Special -status Plants Based on database and information review, habitat for numerous special -status plant species, including one federally listed species, one state listed species, and one state candidate species have the potential to occur in the project vicinity. Each plant species was reviewed in relation to the habitat conditions in the project area, and the following three species were found to have a moderate to high potential to occur in the project area. ■ Silky cryptantha (Cryptantha crinita) ■ Shasta snow -wreath (Neviusia cliftonii) ■ Maverick clover (Trifolium piorkowskii) Two seasonally appropriate floristic surveys were conducted on May 11 and July 6, 2022, and no special -status plants were found to occur within the project area (GHD 2022); therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not impact special -status plant species. Special Status Fish and Mollusks The following federal and state listed fish species have a moderate to high potential to occur in or adjacent to the project area: ■ Green Sturgeon, Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris) ■ Steelhead - Central Valley DPS (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus pop. 11) ■ Chinook Salmon - Central Valley spring -run ESU (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha pop. 6) ■ Chinook Salmon - Sacramento River winter -run ESU (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha pop. 7) ■ Western Pearlshell (Margaritifera falcate) The proposed project is within and adjacent to the Sacramento River, which provides spawning and juvenile rearing habitat for special -status fish and mollusks. The project area is within Page 16 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact I) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community, El El El Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plan? Discussion a) A Biological Resources Report (GHD 2022), including a summary of findings for the protocol - level botanical survey, a habitat assessment survey for VELB, a biological reconnaissance survey, and delineation of waters of the United States, was prepared to assess the impacts of the proposed project on biological resources in the project area and vicinity. Special -status Plants Based on database and information review, habitat for numerous special -status plant species, including one federally listed species, one state listed species, and one state candidate species have the potential to occur in the project vicinity. Each plant species was reviewed in relation to the habitat conditions in the project area, and the following three species were found to have a moderate to high potential to occur in the project area. ■ Silky cryptantha (Cryptantha crinita) ■ Shasta snow -wreath (Neviusia cliftonii) ■ Maverick clover (Trifolium piorkowskii) Two seasonally appropriate floristic surveys were conducted on May 11 and July 6, 2022, and no special -status plants were found to occur within the project area (GHD 2022); therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not impact special -status plant species. Special Status Fish and Mollusks The following federal and state listed fish species have a moderate to high potential to occur in or adjacent to the project area: ■ Green Sturgeon, Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris) ■ Steelhead - Central Valley DPS (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus pop. 11) ■ Chinook Salmon - Central Valley spring -run ESU (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha pop. 6) ■ Chinook Salmon - Sacramento River winter -run ESU (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha pop. 7) ■ Western Pearlshell (Margaritifera falcate) The proposed project is within and adjacent to the Sacramento River, which provides spawning and juvenile rearing habitat for special -status fish and mollusks. The project area is within Page 16 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study designated critical habitat for all of the above listed fish species. In addition, Essential Fish Habitat exists within the Action Area for Chinook Salmon. Green Sturgeon are known to spawn in the Sacramento River. This species has been recorded downstream of the Anderson -Cottonwood Irrigation District Diversion Dam. Large numbers of this species have been recorded in recent years in Red Bluff; there are no fish passage barriers between Red Bluff and the Project Area. Suitable aquatic habitat exists in the Sacramento River within the Project Area and BSA. Based on records and available habitat, the species has a high potential to be present, spawn, and forage in the Project Area and BSA, though presence is likely to be seasonal (associated with upstream migration and spawning). Steelhead have been recorded in the Sacramento River adjacent to the Project Area as recently as 2010. Suitable aquatic habitat exists in the Sacramento River within the Project Area and BSA. Based on records and available habitat, the species has a high potential to be present, spawn, and forage in the Project Area and BSA, though presence is likely to be seasonal (associated with upstream migration and spawning). Chinook Salmon have been recorded in Sacramento River adjacent to the Project Area as recently as 1995. Suitable aquatic habitat exists in the Sacramento River within the Project Area and BSA. Based on records and available habitat, the species has a high potential to be present, spawn, and forage in the Project Area and BSA, though presence is likely to be seasonal (associated with upstream migration and spawning). The Western Pearlshell is an aquatic freshwater mussel. Its geographic distribution spans the western U.S. including Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. The mussel tends to prefer low velocity water. This species is primarily threatened by water diversion, pollution, and siltation (NatureServe 2022). Western Pearlshells have been recorded in the Sacramento River adjacent to the Project Area as recently as 2008. Suitable aquatic habitat exists in the Sacramento River within the Project Area and BSA. A Biological Assessment (BA) was prepared to assess the potential for the proposed project to impact listed fish (GHD 2022). Potential impacts on listed salmonids and sturgeon caused by construction activities include, but are not limited to, spills and discharges of hazardous materials, mainly fuels, lubricants, and uncured concrete from construction activities; introduction of invasive species; removal of riparian vegetation and bank disturbances. Impacts to special status fish and mollusks in the project area may include injury or mortality as a result of construction of the gravel berm, exclusion via seine netting, or increased levels of in -water sedimentation. Installation of the gravel berm could adversely affect fish due to the placement of gravel, however with inclusion of mitigation measures, the area would be seined prior to gravel berm construction, and equipment operators would utilize methods to alert fish of forthcoming movement to encourage fish to move out of the work area prior to placement of gravel. Installation of the gravel berm would result in an isolated, fish -free work area. The seining method will involve two (or more) biologists slowly walking a long net, from the shore to the berm location. The fish would be encouraged to swim away from the net and out of the work Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 17 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division area without capture. No handling of ESA or CESA listed species would occur during construction of the gravel berm or in association with the project, and informal consultation with NMFS under the ESA is anticipated. Upon construction completion, the gravel berm would be breached and the gravel pad and berm would be left in place to provide the benefit of approximately 236 cubic yards of spawning grade gravels to augment spawning opportunities for salmon. The BA findings conclude that the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect Central Valley spring -run ESU Chinook salmon, Sacramento River winter -run ESU Chinook salmon, and Central Valley DPS steelhead, and southern DPS green sturgeon. The findings also conclude that the proposed project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect, and would not destroy or modify, designated critical habitat for the four listed species. Additionally, it is determined that Essential Fish Habitat exists within the Action Area for Chinook Salmon (NOAA 2022); however, no Habitat Areas of Particular Concern (HAPC) occur within the Action Area (NOAA 2022). Mitigation Measures MM -I through MM -4 will be implemented to avoid or minimize impacts on special -status fish and/or their habitat during construction. With implementation of the measures, impacts on listed fish would be less than significant. In addition, standard conservation measures and BMPs HAZ-1 through HAZ-5, WQ-1 through WQ-3, and BIO -1 through BIO -3 are incorporated into all projects that require earthwork and work near streams. BI0-1. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (S)APPP), as required by the City of Redding Stormwater Quality Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, will be prepared to address BMPs that will be used to prevent erosion and sediment loss within the project site. BMPs such as silt fence, mulching and seeding, and straw wattles will be placed where needed to prevent sediment from leaving the site during and after construction. 13I0-2. Appropriate sediment control measures (e.g., silt fences, straw wattles) shall be in place prior to the onset of construction activities near waters of the United States and in project areas where there is a potential for surface runoff to drain into waters of the United States. Sediment control measures shall be monitored and maintained until construction activities have ceased. 13I0-3. High visibility fencing, flagging, or markers will be installed along the edges of the work zone near jurisdictional waters and riparian areas to prevent unauthorized access. Special -status Wildlife The following special status wildlife species have the potential to occur in or adjacent to the project area: ■ Valley elderberry longhorn beetle (Desmocerus californicus dimorphus) - federally listed as threatened. ■ Western pond turtle (Emyr marmorata) - state species of special concern. ■ Foothill Yellow -legged Frog (Rany boylii) — state species of special concern. ■ Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) - federally delisted, state listed as endangered, state listed as fully protected. Page 18 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study ■ Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) - state watch list. ■ Great Egret (Ardea alba) — CA Dept. of Forestry, sensitive. ■ Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia) — state threatened. ■ Silver -haired bat (Antrozous pallidus) — IUNC, least concern ■ Hoary bat (Lasiurus blossevilla) — IUNC, least concern Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle (VELB). Suitable habitat for the VELB is present adjacent to the project area. Two elderberry shrubs were observed adjacent to the project boundary. The northern elderberry shrub is approximately 75 -feet from the project's disturbance boundary, and the southern elderberry shrub is approximately 50 -feet from the project's disturbance boundary. The northern elderberry shrub exhibited VELB exit holes, however no VELB exit holes were observed in the southern elderberry shrub. The proposed project does not include the removal or modification of the elderberry shrubs. Equipment would remain within the disturbance boundary, therefore project activities and/or equipment would be at least 75 -feet and 50 -feet from the northern and southern elderberry shrubs, respectively, at all times. No vegetation within 110 -feet of the northern and southern elderberry shrubs, respectively, would be removed under the project. Therefore, habitat fragmentation in the immediate vicinity of the elderberry shrubs would not occur. Although no modifications or removal of the identified elderberry shrubs are proposed and no work would occur within 75 -feet and 50 -feet of the shrubs, adverse effects to VELB could occur if elderberry shrubs occur within 165 -feet of the project Area. Project activities planned to occur within 165 -feet of a shrub include demolition of the bathroom, disconnection of various utilities, construction of the new bathroom, and removal of two trees. The trees to be removed are located approximately 110 -feet from both shrubs, and 153 -feet from the northern elderberry shrub. Five mature trees and a vegetative buffer would remain intact between the elderberry shrubs and much of the proposed project work, including four mature oaks with 40- to 50 -inch dbh, thereby providing protection from a portion of the project disturbance and remaining habitat continuity. Direct and indirect effects to VELB are not anticipated due to the spatial and environmental buffer between VELB habitat and Project activities via the large mature trees and existing vegetation. The findings conclude that the proposed project will have no effect to VELB. The findings also conclude that the proposed project will have no effect on designated critical habitat for VELB. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the federal lead agency for the project and will initiate Section 7 consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as needed. While the project will have a less than significant impact on VELB, the following conservation measures and BMPs have been incorporated into the proj ect. BI04. The construction area will be fenced, staked, or flagged as close to the limits as feasible. BI0-5. A qualified biologist will provide training for all contractors, work crews, and any onsite personnel on the status of the VELB, its host plant and habitat, the need to avoid damaging the elderberry shrubs, and possible penalties for noncompliance. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 19 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Western Pond Turtle. The Sacramento River provides potential aquatic habitat for the western. pond turtle, and upland habitats in the project area may be used for nesting. Use of heavy machinery could result in direct impacts such as injury or mortality of western pond turtle if individuals are present in the project area during construction. Nesting could be indirectly impacted by vegetation removal in upland habitats. Discharge of sediment into the river could also indirectly impact this species. Implementation of Mitigation Measure MM -5 will reduce impacts on western pond turtle to a less -than -significant level. Foothill Yellow -legged Frog. The project could adversely affect foothill yellow -legged frog if individuals were present in the project area during construction. Potential direct effects include harassment, injury, and mortality of individuals due to equipment and vehicle traffic. The species may also be affected if construction activities result in degradation of aquatic habitat and water quality due to erosion and sedimentation, and accidental fuel leaks or spills. Based on records and available habitat, the species has a moderate potential to be present, nest, and forage in the project area. MM -5 will also be used to ensure any impacts on foothill yellow -legged frogs would be less than significant. Migratory Birds and Raptors. The project area and vicinity provide nesting and foraging habitat for various birds, including raptor species. Special -status bird species that could use these habitats include bald eagle, osprey, great egret, bank swallows, and a variety of migratory bird species. A bald eagle nest is located approximately 0.5 mile southeast of the project area, and an osprey nest is located approximately 515 feet north of the project area (directly across the river). The nesting and breeding season for raptors is generally November through July, and a typical avoidance buffer is 450 -feet for special status raptors unless a smaller buffer is approved by the CDFW. The nesting and breeding season for migratory birds is February through August and avoidance buffers vary based on the species. Construction activities (e.g., vegetation removal, ground disturbance, and equipment noise) would occur during the avian and raptor breeding seasons and could disturb nesting birds or raptors in or adjacent to the project area, resulting in the loss of fertile eggs or nestlings or nest abandonment. Foraging birds and individuals present in or adjacent to the project area outside of the avian breeding season would not be adversely impacted by construction activities due to their high mobility and available habitat outside of the project area. Given the heavy daily use and activity in the area, the history of area construction without nest abandonment, and the distance of the project from the nests, it is unlikely the known nesting raptors would be impacted. New raptor and migratory bird nests may be assembled prior to construction; therefore, pre - construction bird surveys will be incorporated. Mitigation Measure MM -6 will reduce the potential impacts on raptors and birds to a less -than -significant level. Special -status Bats. The silver -haired bat and the hoary bat have moderate potential to occur within the project area based on the presence of suitable habitat, including mature trees, tree cavities, loose bark, and foliage. Bats may roost individually or in small groups in tree cavities or in riparian vegetation. Due to the ability of individual bats to move away from disturbance, direct impacts on bats are not expected when the bats are not in a maternity colony. If a tree is removed that contains a maternity colony, the removal could result in mortality or injury of individuals. Page 20 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study Indirect impacts may occur from construction disturbance if a maternity colony is present in or adjacent to the project area. Significant noise disturbance could result in adults temporarily or permanently leaving a maternity colony. Minor tree removal is proposed as part of the proposed project. Mitigation Measure MM -7 has been incorporated to reduce potential impacts to bats to a less -than -significant level. b) A riparian corridor and forested hilly terrain exists along the Sacramento River and towards the western extent of the project area comprised of valley oak (Quercus lobata), California live oak (Juglans hindsii), interior live oak (Quercus wislizeni), willow (Salix spp.), white alder (Alnus rhombifolia), and non-native species tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia). Large mature trees (i.e. trees with diameters of 30 inches or greater) exist along the hilly terrain above the riparian corridor within the western portion of the project area and somewhat along the riverfront in the central and eastern portions of the project area. These species includeg: valley oak, and Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii). The large mature trees provide moderate shade over the southern bank of the Sacramento River. No large, mature trees would be removed as a result of the project. The remaining areas within the project area (parking lot, gravelled field, access roads) are highly developed. Trees within the parking lot consist of cork oak (Quercus suber), cedar (Thuja sp.), valley oak, and white mulberry (Morus alba). Based on the assemblage of tree species, one sensitive natural community (SNC) was found to occur in the project area; Valley Oak Riparian Forest and Woodland. Areas of vegetation along the Sacramento River that do not consist of SNC assemblage species are considered riparian habitat. Two valley oak trees (8 -inch diameter at breast height [dbh]) that are considered a component of the Valley Oak Riparian Forest and Woodland SNC would be removed. The project would require the removal of six trees in the riparian corridor consisting of four native, and two non-native invasive species. Three of the riparian trees, which include two arroyo willows (18 -inch dbh) and one California walnut (9 -inch dbh), are located immediately west of the existing boat ramp on the lowest elevation of the hillside. These trees would be removed to construct the widened section of the boat ramp and the drift boat beach. During project development, the drift boat beach was modified to preserve numerous large trees. With this design modification, the project impact on SNC, riparian habitat, and native species were significantly reduced. One valley oak (20 -inch dbh) and two tree of heaven (18 -inch dbh) are located at the eastern end of the project and sit in the southern most section of the riparian corridor next to the parking lot. These three trees would be removed to construct the non - motorized pathway. Removal of the riparian trees would have an insignificant effect to shading on the River. At the western portion of the project, all of the large mature tree species sit on the hillside above the riparian trees and constitute nearly all shading. At the eastern end of the project, the valley oak and tree of heaven are located by the parking lot and do not contribute shading to the river. Nine additional trees would be removed, including three native trees (valley oak, 6 -inches dbh; valley oak, 12 -inch dbh; and cedar, 14 -inch dbh) which are located in the parking lot and upland area of the boat ramp. Six non-native trees would be removed, including five cork oak in the parking lot and one white mulberry near the restroom. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 21 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division The project would have temporary impacts consisting of tree trimming for construction access, and permanent impacts including the removal of nine native trees; two SNC, four riparian, and three non -riparian. The removal of two SNC trees and four riparian trees will not result in a significant adverse effect to SNCs given the location, elevation, and size of the trees, as well as the abundance of surrounding mature vegetation being retained in the project area. The project will have a less than significant effect on SNCs. The project also includes standard conservation measure and BIO -1, which incorporates environmentally sensitive area (ESA) fencing to protect surrounding habitat. Although the project will have a less than significant effect, native tree planting will be conducted. The project includes planting a minimum of 27 native trees (3 trees for every 1 native tree removed), within the project footprint and/or at the downstream kayak launch, which is slated for decommission. Revegetation of the kayak launch would naturalize the area, expand riparian habitat and increase shading over the Sacramento River. Planted trees will be irrigated and monitored for a three year establishment period. A revegetation plan will provided to the resource agencies during the permitting process. c) A total of 1.45 acres of potential waters of the United States occurs within the project area (GHD 2022) and consists of riverine "Other Waters of the U.S." (Sacramento River). The project area does not include state or federal wetlands, or non-federal waters of the State. The project would temporarily impact 0.13 acre of waters, and permanently impact 0.007 acre of waters. Temporary impacts would result from re -surfaced boat ramp, grading for the drift boat beach area, the gravel berm, and the gravel work pad. Permanent impacts would result from the expanded boat ramp section, the floating dock pile, and the extended floating dock panel. Indirect impacts could occur due to erosion and sedimentation, accidental fuel leaks, and spills. Conservation measures and BMPs BIO -1 through -3 (described above under Special -status Fish), and HAZ-1 through -5 included in Section VIII, Hazards and Hazardous Materials will be used to reduce potential impacts to federally -protected waters. The project would have no adverse effect on protected wetlands and impacts would be less than significant. Prior to construction regulatory permits will be obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Section 404 permit), the California Department of Fish and Game (Section 1600 Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement), the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (Section 401 Water Quality Certification), and the Central Valley Flood Protection Board (Floodway Encroachment Permit). A permit may also be required by the State Lands Commission. d) The Sacramento River supports a variety of salmon, trout, and other aquatic species, including Chinook Salmon Steelhead, Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and other trout and bass species. There are four distinct runs of Chinook Salmon in the Sacramento River: fall, late fall, spring, and winter. Riparian habitat can function as a wildlife corridor, and it is assumed that common and urban - adapted mammals, such as Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and North American Raccoons Page 22 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study (Procyon lotor) utilize the riparian corridor within the project area. Additionally, the project area and action area are located within the Pacific Flyway for migratory birds. The Sacramento River can be considered a large expanse of high quality natural habitat that would support high levels of migratory bird species stopover use, breeding, or wintering specifically, particularly for wading bird and waterfowl. No "essential connectivity areas," "natural landscape blocks," or "small natural landscape areas" that would support other sensitive species have been identified or mapped in the project vicinity by the California Essential Habitat Connectivity Project (CDFW 2022). The "terrestrial connectivity" within the project area is considered to have "limited connectivity opportunity." No new barriers to terrestrial wildlife movement would result, and the project would not substantially interfere with migratory birds, bats, or other species. The project would temporarily exclude fish from the wetted boat launch area; however, fish would be able to pass the area via the open river. The project would have a less than significant impact on wildlife corridors. e) The City has adopted a Tree Management Ordinance (Chapter 18.45 of the RMC) that promotes the conservation of mature, healthy trees in the design of new development. The ordinance also recognizes that the preservation of trees sometimes conflicts with necessary land -development requirements. There are no conflicts associated with the project that would prevent implementation of the Tree Preservation Ordinance or other resource protection ordinances. The project would have no impact on resource protection ordinances. f) There are no Habitat Conservation Plans, Natural Community Conservation Plans, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plans covering the project area. The project would have no impact on any habitat conservation plan. Documentation ■ California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2022. California Sensitive Natural Communities. ■ California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2022. California Natural Diversity Database. ■ City of Redding Municipal Code, Chapter 18.45, Tree Management Ordinance ■ Biological Resources Report, GHD Consulting 2022 ■ Biological Assessment, GHD Consulting 2022 ■ Technical Memorandum, GHD Consulting 2022 ■ Aquatic Resources Delineation Report, GHD 2022 ■ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2017. Framework for Assessing Impacts to the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle. Mitigation MM -1. All in -water work shall occur during April 1 through June 30 to avoid peak times when listed juvenile anadromous fish would be present. MM -2. Prior to any in -water work, qualified fish biologists, in consultation with CDFW, shall utilize seine netting to work from the edge of water, outward just before berm construction to remove any individuals that could be within the work area. No handling of fish shall occur. Prior to completion of Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 23 February 2023 City of Redding Initial Study Public Works Department, Engineering Division the gravel berm, the area will be surveyed and seined again by qualified fish biologists to ensure absence of fish in the work area. The berm will serve as a barrier to the in -water portion of the project area. After the gravel berm is constructed, the work pad may be constructed. MM -3. Prior to any placement of gravel in water, heavy equipment operation practices shall be implemented that minimize the potential for injury or death of listed fish species, including alerting fish to equipment operation in the channel before gravel is placed in the water (i.e. slow, deliberate equipment operation and gently tapping water surface prior to entering or placing gravels in the river channel). MM -4. The gravel berm and work pad shall be constructed out of 3/4 -inch minus, silt free, clean, spawning -grade gravel that meets Caltrans' cleanness test (California Test No. 227) with a value of 85 or higher. Upon construction completion, the gravel berm would be breached and the gravel pad and berm would be left in place to provide the benefit of approximately 236 cubic yards of spawning grade gravels to augment spawning opportunities for salmon. MM -5. Twenty-four hours (24 -hours) prior to initiation of ground disturbance or vegetation removal within 50 -feet of suitable reptile and/or amphibian habitat (i.e., Sacramento River and riparian areas), a qualified biologist shall perform a pre -construction survey for western pond turtle, their nests, and foothill yellow -legged frog. If western pond turtles, their nests, or yellow -legged frog are encountered in the project area during construction and could be harmed by construction activities, work will stop immediately in the area and CDFW will be notified. Upon authorization from CDFW, a qualified biologist may relocate the individual(s) the shortest distance possible to a location containing habitat outside of the construction impact zone. MM -6. If construction or vegetation removal occurs during the nesting season, February 1 through August 31 for birds and November 1 through July 15 for raptors, a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey to locate active nests. The pre -construction survey will be performed no more than 7 days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities occurs for 7 days or longer, another pre -construction survey will be performed. If an active nest is found, a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a buffer zone to be established around the nest. MM -7. Removal of large trees (10 -inch dbh or greater) with cavities, crevices, or snags shall occur before maternity colonies form (i.e., prior to March 1) or after young are volant (i.e., after August 15). If construction (including the removal of large trees) occurs during the non-volant season (March I through August 1.5), a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey of the project area to locate maternity colonies and identify measures to protect the colonies from disturbance. The pre - construction survey will be performed no more than seven days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities for seven days or longer occurs between those dates, another pre -construction survey will be performed. If a maternity colony is found a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a construction -free buffer zone to be established around the nest. Page 24 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division V. CULTURAL RESOURCES Initial Study Discussion a, b, c) Archival research, consultation with the Native American community, and an intensive archaeological survey are summarized in the Archaeological Resources Study (Sonoma State University, 2022). The cultural resources inventory identified no cultural resources within the project area. The project area, except for the western edge and west of the boat ramp, lies on a historical gravel point bar, the result of deposition at the bend of the Sacramento River. The lack of vegetation indicated on the 1944 USGS maps and the lack of historical development suggests this landform was low-lying and subject to flooding and reworking by the river. The current ground surface may be the result of filling. Although the project vicinity was a locus of Native American habitation, the project area's sensitivity for surface and buried archaeological resources is low. In addition to being located on a historic gravel and sand point bar, the area has been extensively disturbed with low potential for human habitation. The main channel of the Sacramento River, at the project location, is natural, navigable, non - tidal, and, therefore, State sovereign land under the California State Land Commission's (Commission) jurisdiction. A lease will be required for the portions of the project extending into the river below the ordinary low water mark. The title to all abandoned shipwrecks, archaeological sites, and historic or cultural resources on or in the tide and submerged lands of California is vested in the State and under the jurisdiction of the Commission (Pub. Resources Code, § 6313). While the proposed project is not anticipated to impact cultural resources, the following standard conservation measures are included in every project. In the event of an unanticipated discovery of artifacts, including human remains, impacts would be less than significant. CR -1. If previously unidentified cultural materials are unearthed during construction, it is the City's policy that work be halted in that area until a qualified archaeologist can assess the significance of the find. Additional archaeological surveys will be needed if the proposed Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 25 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to ❑ ❑ ® ❑ Section 15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource El El M pursuant to Section 15064.5? e) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Discussion a, b, c) Archival research, consultation with the Native American community, and an intensive archaeological survey are summarized in the Archaeological Resources Study (Sonoma State University, 2022). The cultural resources inventory identified no cultural resources within the project area. The project area, except for the western edge and west of the boat ramp, lies on a historical gravel point bar, the result of deposition at the bend of the Sacramento River. The lack of vegetation indicated on the 1944 USGS maps and the lack of historical development suggests this landform was low-lying and subject to flooding and reworking by the river. The current ground surface may be the result of filling. Although the project vicinity was a locus of Native American habitation, the project area's sensitivity for surface and buried archaeological resources is low. In addition to being located on a historic gravel and sand point bar, the area has been extensively disturbed with low potential for human habitation. The main channel of the Sacramento River, at the project location, is natural, navigable, non - tidal, and, therefore, State sovereign land under the California State Land Commission's (Commission) jurisdiction. A lease will be required for the portions of the project extending into the river below the ordinary low water mark. The title to all abandoned shipwrecks, archaeological sites, and historic or cultural resources on or in the tide and submerged lands of California is vested in the State and under the jurisdiction of the Commission (Pub. Resources Code, § 6313). While the proposed project is not anticipated to impact cultural resources, the following standard conservation measures are included in every project. In the event of an unanticipated discovery of artifacts, including human remains, impacts would be less than significant. CR -1. If previously unidentified cultural materials are unearthed during construction, it is the City's policy that work be halted in that area until a qualified archaeologist can assess the significance of the find. Additional archaeological surveys will be needed if the proposed Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 25 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division project undertaking limits are extended beyond the present survey APE limits. The final disposition of archaeological, historical, and paleontological resources recovered on State land under the jurisdiction of the California State Lands Commission must be approved by the Commission. CR -2. If human remains are discovered during project activities, all activities in the vicinity of the find will be stopped and the Shasta County Sheriff -Coroner's Office shall be notified. If the coroner determines that the remains may be those of a Native American, the coroner will contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). Treatment of the remains shall be conducted in accordance with further direction of the County Coroner or the NAHC, as appropriate. Documentation ■ Archaeological Resources Study (Sonoma State University, 2022). Mitigation No mitigation required. Discussion a) During construction, vehicles including worker commuter vehicles and heavy construction equipment, would require the use of gasoline and diesel fuel for power. Construction is anticipated to last approximately 10 months. Construction is estimated to result in a short-term consumption of energy, representing a small demand on local and regional fuel supplies that would be easily accommodated and would be temporary. The short duration of equipment usage and incorporation of energy efficiencies would not create a wasteful or significant increase in demand for fuel supplies; therefore, impacts on energy resources would be less than significant. b) The proposed project includes improvement of existing amenities and would not require the additional use of energy for operations. The proposed project would not prohibit energy conservation or the use of renewable energy (City of Redding 2009) and would not conflict Page 26 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for F] F] ® F] renewable energy or energy efficiency? Discussion a) During construction, vehicles including worker commuter vehicles and heavy construction equipment, would require the use of gasoline and diesel fuel for power. Construction is anticipated to last approximately 10 months. Construction is estimated to result in a short-term consumption of energy, representing a small demand on local and regional fuel supplies that would be easily accommodated and would be temporary. The short duration of equipment usage and incorporation of energy efficiencies would not create a wasteful or significant increase in demand for fuel supplies; therefore, impacts on energy resources would be less than significant. b) The proposed project includes improvement of existing amenities and would not require the additional use of energy for operations. The proposed project would not prohibit energy conservation or the use of renewable energy (City of Redding 2009) and would not conflict Page 26 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study with or obstruct the City's plan for renewable energy. Because operations would be consistent with existing conditions, there would be no operational impact. Construction of the proposed project would have a less -than -significant impact on state or local plans related to renewable energy. Documentation City of Redding. 2009. General Plan — Natural Resources Element. Mitigation No mitigation required. VTI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 27 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake, fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on 0 0 ® 0 other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publications 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of El topsoil? c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off- site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), 0 0 ® 0 creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 27 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a, c, d) There are no Alquist-Priolo earthquake faults designated in the project area; and there are no other documented earthquake faults in the immediate vicinity that pose a significant risk of rupture, ground shaking, or otherwise unstable ground conditions. The closest active fault is about 50 miles away from the project site. Implementation of the proposed project would not increase the potential for ground shaking to occur. Ground shaking activities such as earthquakes would have a negligible effect on the project, as it would be designed in accordance with current California Building Code (CBC) seismic design criteria. This CBC design criteria will be incorporated into the project design to help ensure that the project is built to withstand any potential ground shaking that could occur in the project area. The impact would be less than significant. According to the City's General Plan, landslides could occur in the westernmost portion of the City (City of Redding 2000); however, the proposed project is not located in an area prone to landslides. The project area is relatively flat and would not pose a significant hazard. There would be no impact related to landslides. Other types of ground failure such as expansive soils and subsidence (i.e., the gradual settling or sinking of an area with little or no horizontal motion) are not considered to pose a significant hazard within the proposed project area as soils in that area are expected to have a medium to low potential for expansion. The impact would be less than significant. Soil liquefaction occurs when ground shaking from an earthquake causes a sediment layer saturated with groundwater to lose strength and take on the characteristics of a fluid, thus becoming similar to quicksand. Factors determining the liquefaction potential are soil type, the level and duration of seismic ground motions, the type and consistency of soils, and the depth to groundwater. Loose sands and peat deposits, along with recent Holocene age deposits are more susceptible to liquefaction while older deposits of clayey silts, silty clays, and clays deposited in freshwater environments are generally stable under the influence of seismic ground shaking. According to the City's Health and Safety Plan element, the project area is in an area having a high potential for liquefaction (City of Redding 2009). Page 28 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater El El El disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? I) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic ❑ ❑ ❑ feature? Discussion a, c, d) There are no Alquist-Priolo earthquake faults designated in the project area; and there are no other documented earthquake faults in the immediate vicinity that pose a significant risk of rupture, ground shaking, or otherwise unstable ground conditions. The closest active fault is about 50 miles away from the project site. Implementation of the proposed project would not increase the potential for ground shaking to occur. Ground shaking activities such as earthquakes would have a negligible effect on the project, as it would be designed in accordance with current California Building Code (CBC) seismic design criteria. This CBC design criteria will be incorporated into the project design to help ensure that the project is built to withstand any potential ground shaking that could occur in the project area. The impact would be less than significant. According to the City's General Plan, landslides could occur in the westernmost portion of the City (City of Redding 2000); however, the proposed project is not located in an area prone to landslides. The project area is relatively flat and would not pose a significant hazard. There would be no impact related to landslides. Other types of ground failure such as expansive soils and subsidence (i.e., the gradual settling or sinking of an area with little or no horizontal motion) are not considered to pose a significant hazard within the proposed project area as soils in that area are expected to have a medium to low potential for expansion. The impact would be less than significant. Soil liquefaction occurs when ground shaking from an earthquake causes a sediment layer saturated with groundwater to lose strength and take on the characteristics of a fluid, thus becoming similar to quicksand. Factors determining the liquefaction potential are soil type, the level and duration of seismic ground motions, the type and consistency of soils, and the depth to groundwater. Loose sands and peat deposits, along with recent Holocene age deposits are more susceptible to liquefaction while older deposits of clayey silts, silty clays, and clays deposited in freshwater environments are generally stable under the influence of seismic ground shaking. According to the City's Health and Safety Plan element, the project area is in an area having a high potential for liquefaction (City of Redding 2009). Page 28 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study Although soils in the project area have a high potential for liquefaction, key design features would help ensure the pathways and associated project features are constructed to provide structure stability and would be in conformance with state and federal building code requirements. The impact would, therefore, be less than significant. b) During construction, localized erosion could occur due to ground disturbance and stockpiling of soil in the project area. Storm drain and wastewater modification would require soil trenching and excavation. If not properly managed, substantial erosion of stockpiled soils could occur, and sediment could be transported into sensitive receiving waters; however, the proposed project is subject to certain erosion -control requirements and BMPs mandated by existing City regulations which includes: ■ City of Redding Grading Ordinance. This ordinance requires preparation of an erosion and sediment control plan for projects affecting more than one acre (Redding Municipal Code Title 16). The erosion and sediment control plan requires preparation and description of any BMPs that will be used during construction and post -construction, if needed. ■ City of Redding Stormwater Quality Management and Discharge Control Ordinance. This ordinance requires preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for projects affecting greater than 1 acre (Redding Municipal Code Title 14). The objectives of the SWPPP are to identify the sources of sediment and other pollutants that may affect water quality associated with stormwater discharges and to describe and ensure the implementation of BMPs to reduce those sources of sediment and other pollutants in stormwater discharges. The potential for project construction to result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil would be less than significant. e) The proposed project does not involve the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal; therefore, there would be no impact. f) A review of published data (Paleobiology Database 2018) indicates that there are no known unique geologic features, fossil -bearing strata, or paleontological sites in the project area. The proposed project will have no impact on paleontological resources. Documentation ■ City of Redding. 2000. 2000-2020 General Plan. Health and Safety Element. October ■ Paleobiology Database. 2018. The paleobiology database. Available at: httpsJ/paleobiodb.org/#l. Mitigation No mitigation required. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 29 February 2023 Initial Study VIII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a) Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are recognized by wide consensus among the scientific community to contribute to global warming/climate change and associated environmental impacts because of their ability to trap heat in the atmosphere and affect climate. The major GHGs that are released from human activity include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide (Governor's Office of Planning and Research 2008). The primary sources of GHGs are from industrial facilities, transportation vehicles (including planes and trains), energy/electricity plants, and industrial and agricultural activities (such as dairies and hog farms) (CARB 2021). GHG emissions from the proposed project would be generated offsite from the production of project materials (e.g., lights, electrical systems), as well as onsite construction -related equipment emissions. While the project would have an incremental contribution in the context of the county and region, construction -related GHG emissions would be short term and minor. BMPs AQ -1 through AQ -6 (Section III Air Quality) will be incorporated into the proposed project which would reduce construction -related GHG emissions. Project operation would be consistent with existing conditions. The impact would be less than significant. b) The proposed project would not conflict with any applicable plans, policies, or regulations adopted to reduce GHG emissions. As noted in impact "a" and in Section III Air Quality, the proposed project is in conformance with the City's air quality policies and thresholds, follows state guidelines and regulations, and incorporates BMPs AQ -1 through AQ -6. The proposed project would have a less -than -significant impact on the City's applicable plans, policies, or regulations related to GHG emissions. The impact would be less than significant. Documentation ■ City of Redding. 2009. General Plan — Air Quality Element. ■ California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2022. Current California GHG Emission Inventory Data. Available at: Current California GHG Emission Inventor) California Air Resources Board. Accessed June 5. Page 30 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? Discussion a) Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are recognized by wide consensus among the scientific community to contribute to global warming/climate change and associated environmental impacts because of their ability to trap heat in the atmosphere and affect climate. The major GHGs that are released from human activity include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide (Governor's Office of Planning and Research 2008). The primary sources of GHGs are from industrial facilities, transportation vehicles (including planes and trains), energy/electricity plants, and industrial and agricultural activities (such as dairies and hog farms) (CARB 2021). GHG emissions from the proposed project would be generated offsite from the production of project materials (e.g., lights, electrical systems), as well as onsite construction -related equipment emissions. While the project would have an incremental contribution in the context of the county and region, construction -related GHG emissions would be short term and minor. BMPs AQ -1 through AQ -6 (Section III Air Quality) will be incorporated into the proposed project which would reduce construction -related GHG emissions. Project operation would be consistent with existing conditions. The impact would be less than significant. b) The proposed project would not conflict with any applicable plans, policies, or regulations adopted to reduce GHG emissions. As noted in impact "a" and in Section III Air Quality, the proposed project is in conformance with the City's air quality policies and thresholds, follows state guidelines and regulations, and incorporates BMPs AQ -1 through AQ -6. The proposed project would have a less -than -significant impact on the City's applicable plans, policies, or regulations related to GHG emissions. The impact would be less than significant. Documentation ■ City of Redding. 2009. General Plan — Air Quality Element. ■ California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2022. Current California GHG Emission Inventory Data. Available at: Current California GHG Emission Inventor) California Air Resources Board. Accessed June 5. Page 30 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study ■ Governor's Office of Planning and Research. 2008. Technical advisory: CEQA and climate change: Addressing climate change through California Environmental Quality Act Review. Sacramento, CA. ■ Shasta Air Quality Management District, https://www.co.shasta.ca.us/index/drm—index/aq_index.aspx. Accessed December 2, 2022. Mitigation No mitigation required. I AA a, EVAR19 Z.y10117 80 r_ywR 1114 11I1fyU /_r Y o1 IN El Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 31 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or ❑ ❑ ® ❑ disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset ❑ ❑ ® ❑ and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste El El El within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a ❑ ❑ ® ❑ result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use ❑ ❑ ❑ airport, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area? f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or ❑ ❑ ❑ emergency evacuation plan? Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 31 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a, b, d) The proposed project would not present a significant risk due to the use of hazardous materials or emissions. The project area is not on any lists of properties known to contain hazardous materials. A review of known hazardous materials sites databases identified one nearby leaking underground storage tank (LUST) site within an approximate 0.5 mile. The underground tank was removed and remediation actions were taken. The case was closed in 2013 and does not pose a threat to the proposed project in the form of hazardous material leaks or spills. Construction activities pose a slight risk for solvent or fuel spills or leaks. In accordance with the City's Stormwater Management Program, and as a part of the Clean Water Act Section 402, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, a SWPPP is required when obtaining a general construction permit. Compliance under water quality regulations and the SWPPP would require use of the following standard conservation measures and 13MPs to avoid or minimize the potential for accidental release of hazardous materials from spills or fuel leaks during project construction: ■ HAZ-1. Hazardous materials, including fuels, oils, cement, and solvents, will be stored and contained in an area protected from direct runoff and away from areas where they could enter waters of the United States. ■ HAZ-2. Construction equipment will be inspected daily for leaks. Leaking fluids will be contained upon detection and equipment repairs will be made as soon as practicable or the leaking equipment will be moved off site. ■ HAZ-3. Secondary containment such as drip pans or absorbent materials shall be used to catch spills or leaks when removing or changing fluids. Secondary containment will be used for storage of all hazardous materials. ■ HAZ-4. Spill containment and clean-up materials shall be kept on site at all times for use in the event of an accidental spills. ■ HAZ-5. Absorbent materials shall be used on small spills rather than hosing down or burying the spill. The absorbent material shall be promptly removed and properly disposed. The implementation of the SWPPP required by state and local regulations would ensure that the proposed project would not pose a significant risk for solvent or fuel spills. The potential for Page 32 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact g) Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury, or ❑ ❑ ® ❑ death involving wildland fires? Discussion a, b, d) The proposed project would not present a significant risk due to the use of hazardous materials or emissions. The project area is not on any lists of properties known to contain hazardous materials. A review of known hazardous materials sites databases identified one nearby leaking underground storage tank (LUST) site within an approximate 0.5 mile. The underground tank was removed and remediation actions were taken. The case was closed in 2013 and does not pose a threat to the proposed project in the form of hazardous material leaks or spills. Construction activities pose a slight risk for solvent or fuel spills or leaks. In accordance with the City's Stormwater Management Program, and as a part of the Clean Water Act Section 402, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, a SWPPP is required when obtaining a general construction permit. Compliance under water quality regulations and the SWPPP would require use of the following standard conservation measures and 13MPs to avoid or minimize the potential for accidental release of hazardous materials from spills or fuel leaks during project construction: ■ HAZ-1. Hazardous materials, including fuels, oils, cement, and solvents, will be stored and contained in an area protected from direct runoff and away from areas where they could enter waters of the United States. ■ HAZ-2. Construction equipment will be inspected daily for leaks. Leaking fluids will be contained upon detection and equipment repairs will be made as soon as practicable or the leaking equipment will be moved off site. ■ HAZ-3. Secondary containment such as drip pans or absorbent materials shall be used to catch spills or leaks when removing or changing fluids. Secondary containment will be used for storage of all hazardous materials. ■ HAZ-4. Spill containment and clean-up materials shall be kept on site at all times for use in the event of an accidental spills. ■ HAZ-5. Absorbent materials shall be used on small spills rather than hosing down or burying the spill. The absorbent material shall be promptly removed and properly disposed. The implementation of the SWPPP required by state and local regulations would ensure that the proposed project would not pose a significant risk for solvent or fuel spills. The potential for Page 32 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study project construction and operation to create a hazard to the public or the environment through the accidental spill or pollutants would be less than significant. c) There are no existing or currently proposed schools within 0.25 mile of the project area. There would be no impacts on schools. e) The proposed project is located 1.8 miles from the Benton Airpark; however, the project would be outside of the airport influence area and the limited use at the Benton Airpark would not result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people working in the project area. No impact. f) The proposed project is located at the end of Aoki Way, which is classified as a local driveway or service road. The project area will be closed during construction; however, the site will include an access road and would not interfere with any emergency response plan. No impact. g) During the construction period, the use of construction equipment in and around vegetated areas increases the potential for wildfire ignition. The project area consists of vegetated areas that could be susceptible to wildfires. However, the proposed project would be constructed in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal requirements, including the California Fire Code, which would ensure that the potential for construction equipment to spark a wildland fire is minimal. Operation of the proposed project would be consistent with existing operations and would not increase the existing wildfire potential. The potential for wildfire ignition from construction and operation of the proposed project would be less than significant. Documentation 0 California State Water Resources Control Board. 2022. Geotracker available at: http://geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov . California Department of Toxic Substances Control. 2022. EnviroStor — Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List (Cortese) available at: https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/. City of Redding Storm Water Management Program available at: https://www.cityofredding.org/departments/Tublic-works/environmental-management/storm- water-management. Mitigation No mitigation required. X. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 33 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially El El M El degrade surface or ground water quality? Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 33 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a) The boat ramp and drift beach would require work within the Sacramento River. Equipment would be operated from the ramp, beach, and a temporary gravel work pad, and would not enter the river. The precast boat ramp would be installed without dewatering the construction area, instead a gravel berm would be constructed in a semi -circle to contain the water in the work area. Disturbed sediment would settle back to the bottom without entering the river. The City's construction standards require that all projects prepare a plan to address water pollution control and incorporate this plan into the project design. In accordance with the City's Stormwater Quality Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, and as a part of the Clean Water Act Section 402, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, the construction standards and specifications for the proposed project will require that an Erosion and Sediment Page 34 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact b) Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge ❑ ❑ ❑ such that the project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the ❑ ❑ ® ❑ addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: i) result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or F] F] ® F] off-site; ii) substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result ❑ ❑ ® ❑ in flooding on- or offsite; iii) create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or ❑ ❑ ® ❑ provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff, or iv) impede or redirect flood flows? ❑ ❑ ® ❑ d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or sciche zones, risk F] F] ® F] release of pollutants due to project inundation? e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable ❑ ❑ ® ❑ groundwater management plan? Discussion a) The boat ramp and drift beach would require work within the Sacramento River. Equipment would be operated from the ramp, beach, and a temporary gravel work pad, and would not enter the river. The precast boat ramp would be installed without dewatering the construction area, instead a gravel berm would be constructed in a semi -circle to contain the water in the work area. Disturbed sediment would settle back to the bottom without entering the river. The City's construction standards require that all projects prepare a plan to address water pollution control and incorporate this plan into the project design. In accordance with the City's Stormwater Quality Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, and as a part of the Clean Water Act Section 402, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, the construction standards and specifications for the proposed project will require that an Erosion and Sediment Page 34 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study Control Plan (ESCP) be prepared by the contractor prior to construction. The ESCP would help ensure that water quality standards are not substantially affected by the proposed project through the implementation of sediment control measures and runoff prevention practices. The ESCP, BMPs HAZ-1 through HAZ-5, as well as the following BMPs would be implemented: ■ WQ-1. All construction work and stockpiling of materials will be confined to the project disturbance area. ■ WQ-2. Temporary stockpiling of excavated or imported material will be placed in upland areas. ■ WQ-3. Excess soil will be used onsite or disposed of at a regional landfill or other appropriate facility. The proposed project would have a less than significant impact on water quality. b) Project construction would not substantially deplete groundwater supplies because no groundwater would be used, and no groundwater wells would be affected during construction. The project would have no impact on groundwater. c) The project would implement an ESCP and comply with a construction general permit or NPDES that would result in minimal erosion or siltation from the construction of the project, and result in a less than significant impact. The project would expand the parking lot and widen the boat launch, which would alter the drainage pattern in the project area. The improvements would not substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or offsite, as stormwater treatment facilities would create some retention. Vehicles using both the parking lot and boat launch create the potential for pollutants to sit on the pavement; however, storm water treatment features have been incorporated into the landscaping features. The treatment features will capture surface flow, treat the flow by removing pollutants, and allow the flow to gradually leave the feature and enter the storm drain system. A Floodplain Encroachment Assessment (Pacific Hydrologic, 2023) was prepared to evaluate potential impacts to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regulatory 100 -year floodplain and designated floodway. It was determined that the project and associated improvements are not within the designated floodway or FEMA floodplain and the project would not result in an encroachment or fill. The project would not result in flooding, affect the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems, or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff, therefore, the project would have a less than significant impact. d) The project area includes work within and adjacent to the Sacramento River. The northern portion of the project area is shown in the designated as Floodway Zone AE (Federal Emergency Management Agency 2011). Zone AE is a floodplain designation that has mapped base flood elevations (BSE) determined, and is mapped as a special flood hazard area. The existing boat ramp is partially inundated throughout the year, which allows recreational users to launch their boats. While the boat launch would be widened to allow two boats to be launched Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 35 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division at one time, the improvements are not anticipated to significantly increase use. The current boat ramp configuration requires trucks to sit idling while waiting to access the ramp. The widened ramp will provide efficiency and reduce the amount of time vehicles sit near the water. The threat of a tsunami wave is not applicable to inland, central valley communities such as Redding. Seiches could potentially be generated in either Shasta or Whiskeytown lakes during an earthquake. If a seiche were to overtop Shasta Dam, or in the event of dam failure, the project area would be within the inundation zone. However, regional history documents that the potential for such a threat is low (City of Redding 2000). The project would have a less than significant risk for release of pollutants due to project inundation. Documentation ■ City of Redding. 2000-2020 General Plan. Health and Safety Element figures 4-1 (Ground Shaking Potential) and 4.2 (Liquefaction Potential). ■ Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Floodplain regulations, FIRM Map 06089C1539G, March 17, 2011. ■ Floodplain Encroachment Assessment, Pacific Hydrologic Incorporated, January 2023 Mitigation No mitigation necessary. Discussion a,b) The proposed project would not divide an established community. The proposed project would be constructed on existing City property and would enhance recreational opportunities for the public. The proposed project would not conflict with any applicable policies and regulations of the City's General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. There would be no impact. Documentation City of Redding. 2000-2020 General Plan. City of Redding. 2022. Municipal Code. Page 36 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Physically divide an established community? El El E b) Cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or El El El regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? Discussion a,b) The proposed project would not divide an established community. The proposed project would be constructed on existing City property and would enhance recreational opportunities for the public. The proposed project would not conflict with any applicable policies and regulations of the City's General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. There would be no impact. Documentation City of Redding. 2000-2020 General Plan. City of Redding. 2022. Municipal Code. Page 36 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation No mitigation required. XII. MINERAL RESOURCES Initial Study Discussion a,b) The project area is not identified in the City's General Plan as having any known mineral resource value or as being located within any critical mineral resource overlay area. No impact would occur. Documentation City of Redding. 2009. General Plan — Natural Resources Element. California Department of Conservation. 2016. Mines Online. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/mol/index.html. Mitigation No mitigation required. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 37 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource classified MRZ-2 by the State El El El Geologist that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan? Discussion a,b) The project area is not identified in the City's General Plan as having any known mineral resource value or as being located within any critical mineral resource overlay area. No impact would occur. Documentation City of Redding. 2009. General Plan — Natural Resources Element. California Department of Conservation. 2016. Mines Online. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/mol/index.html. Mitigation No mitigation required. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 37 February 2023 Initial Study XIII. NOISE City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a,b) The proposed project would be located in a recreational area adjacent to the river. Existing ambient noise and vibration includes trucks towing trailers along the roadway and utilizing the boat ramp, as well as conversation from recreational users. Noise levels would increase during construction due to the operation of equipment; however, this would be temporary in nature and operation would occur during daylight hours. Construction noise would consist of grading and excavation equipment, trucks, and construction personnel. The project includes cast in drilled hole piles, but does not include pile driving or other percussive methods for construction. Operation of the project would be similar to existing conditions. Widening of the ramp is not anticipated to increase use, but to make the existing use more efficient. Operation of the drift boat beach will allow more room and increase safety, so those using rafts or kayaks can launch without using the vehicular boat ramp. No permanent or long-term noise impacts would occur because of the proposed project. Noise impacts would be less than significant. c) The proposed project is not located within an airport land use plan or near any airports; therefore, there would be no impacts. Documentation ■ City of Redding General Plan, Noise Element, 2000. ■ Redding Municipal Airport. 2004. Redding Municipal Airport Master Plan. https://www.cityofredding.org/home/showdocument9id=865. Page 38 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards El El ® El established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or ❑ ❑ ® ❑ groundborne noise levels? e) For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, ❑ ❑ ❑ would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? Discussion a,b) The proposed project would be located in a recreational area adjacent to the river. Existing ambient noise and vibration includes trucks towing trailers along the roadway and utilizing the boat ramp, as well as conversation from recreational users. Noise levels would increase during construction due to the operation of equipment; however, this would be temporary in nature and operation would occur during daylight hours. Construction noise would consist of grading and excavation equipment, trucks, and construction personnel. The project includes cast in drilled hole piles, but does not include pile driving or other percussive methods for construction. Operation of the project would be similar to existing conditions. Widening of the ramp is not anticipated to increase use, but to make the existing use more efficient. Operation of the drift boat beach will allow more room and increase safety, so those using rafts or kayaks can launch without using the vehicular boat ramp. No permanent or long-term noise impacts would occur because of the proposed project. Noise impacts would be less than significant. c) The proposed project is not located within an airport land use plan or near any airports; therefore, there would be no impacts. Documentation ■ City of Redding General Plan, Noise Element, 2000. ■ Redding Municipal Airport. 2004. Redding Municipal Airport Master Plan. https://www.cityofredding.org/home/showdocument9id=865. Page 38 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation No mitigation required. XIV. POPULATION AND HOUSING Initial Study Discussion a -b) The recreational improvement project would be constructed in an existing recreational area. The project is bordered by the river, a cemetery, the rodeo grounds, and Turtle Bay Exploration Park. All properties in the vicinity are zoned for public use or currently built -out. The project would not induce population growth or displace people. The project would have no impact on population and housing. Documentation ■ City of Redding General Plan, Housing Element 2014. Mitigation No mitigation required. a000EM-301.7,/[4lxy Would the project result in substantial adverse physical Less -Than - impacts associated with the provision of new or Potentially Significant with Less -Than - physically altered governmental facilities, need for Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Induce substantial unplanned population growth in Less -Than - an area, either directly (for example, by proposing Potentially Significant with Less -Than - new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for ❑ ❑ ❑ example, through extension of roads or other Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact infrastructure)? ❑ ❑ ® ❑ b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of ❑ ❑ ❑ replacement housing elsewhere? Discussion a -b) The recreational improvement project would be constructed in an existing recreational area. The project is bordered by the river, a cemetery, the rodeo grounds, and Turtle Bay Exploration Park. All properties in the vicinity are zoned for public use or currently built -out. The project would not induce population growth or displace people. The project would have no impact on population and housing. Documentation ■ City of Redding General Plan, Housing Element 2014. Mitigation No mitigation required. a000EM-301.7,/[4lxy Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant Less -Than - environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable Potentially Significant with Less -Than - service ratios, response times or other performance Significant Mitigation Significant objectives for any of the public services: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Fire Protection? ❑ ❑ ® ❑ Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 39 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Would the project result in substantial adverse physical Less -Than - impacts associated with the provision of new or Potentially Significant with Less -Than - physically altered governmental facilities, need for Significant Mitigation Significant new or physically altered governmental facilities, the Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact construction of which could cause significant Less -Than - environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable Potentially Significant with Less -Than - service ratios, response times or other performance Significant Mitigation Significant ❑ objectives for any of the public services: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact b) Police Protection? ❑ ❑ ® ❑ c) Schools? ❑ ❑ ® ❑ d) Parks? El El ® El e) Other public facilities? El El ® El Discussion a -e) The proposed project would not cause substantial adverse physical impacts on government facilities or negatively affect public services. Similarly, access to schools, parks, and other public facilities would not be affected since access will be maintained through the project area during construction. Proposed contractor construction access in the area may temporarily interfere with access to the boat ramp. The proposed project would not result in substantial conflict or lack of emergency access. The proposed project would have a less -than -significant temporary impact, and no permanent impact, on public services. Documentation ■ City of Redding General Plan, Public Facilities Element, 2000. Mitigation No mitigation required. Page 40 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical ❑ ❑ ® ❑ deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? Page 40 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study Discussion a) The proposed project primarily involves boating and fishing recreation, and would not impact the number of users at existing neighborhood or regional parks or the physical deterioration of those facilities. The project would have no impact. b) The larger project components include widening the existing boat ramp, creating a drift boat beach, installing a new restroom, expanding the parking lot, and extending the Sacramento River Trail approximately 650 feet. The proposed project will have a minor impact on native trees and require fill in jurisdictional waters; however, these impacts would not have a significant physical effect on the environment. The project would have a less than significant impact. Documentation City of Redding General Plan, Recreation Element, 2000. City of Redding General Plan, Public Facilities Element, 2000. Mitigation No mitigation required. XVII. TRANSPORTATION Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of El El VIJ El recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? Discussion a) The proposed project primarily involves boating and fishing recreation, and would not impact the number of users at existing neighborhood or regional parks or the physical deterioration of those facilities. The project would have no impact. b) The larger project components include widening the existing boat ramp, creating a drift boat beach, installing a new restroom, expanding the parking lot, and extending the Sacramento River Trail approximately 650 feet. The proposed project will have a minor impact on native trees and require fill in jurisdictional waters; however, these impacts would not have a significant physical effect on the environment. The project would have a less than significant impact. Documentation City of Redding General Plan, Recreation Element, 2000. City of Redding General Plan, Public Facilities Element, 2000. Mitigation No mitigation required. XVII. TRANSPORTATION Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 41 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Conflict with a program plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including El El M El transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities? b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b)? Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 41 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a) Construction of the proposed project would generate vehicle trips associated with worker commutes and material and equipment hauling. The increases in trips per day on local and regional roadways within the City could affect roadway capacity and circulation by introducing slower movements and larger turning radii of construction trucks compared to passenger vehicles if the number of trips were to result in a significant increase from the current local conditions. The proposed project would generate construction traffic throughout the 10 -month construction period with periods of heavier use (i.e., during grading) and periods of minimal vehicle use (i.e., site restoration). The proposed project would not conflict with the City of Redding General Plan policies or the City of Redding Parks, Trails, and Open Space Master Plan (City of Redding 2018). The proposed project would not conflict with any program, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, and the impact would be less than significant. b) Section 15064.3(b) of the current CEQA Guidelines shifts transportation impact analysis from a level of service (LOS) standard to a vehicle miles traveled (VMT) standard that refers to the amount and distance of automobile travel attributable to a project. However, VMT does not currently include recreational uses. The proposed project would require some haul, vendor, and worker trips over the 10 -month construction period. The technical advisory provided by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) provides that projects with less than 110 trips per day are presumed less than significant (OPR 2018). The proposed project would result in less than 110 trips per day during construction and would result in no additional maintenance trips during operation of the proposed project. The proposed project would result in a less than significant impact. c) The proposed project, once constructed, would be consistent with existing use and would not result in changes to roadways causing an increase in hazards due to a geometric design feature or incompatible use on any roadways in the area. During construction, equipment and vehicles would be intermittently entering and exiting Aoki Way. This could pose a potential hazard from interaction with the general public on this public roadway. However, construction activities would be temporary and would largely occur within the closed boat launch area (i.e., away from the public roadways) and would not result in a substantial hazard. The proposed project would have no impact related to hazards from geometric design features. Page 42 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact e) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous El El El intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? d) Result in inadequate emergency access? F-1 F-1 ® El Discussion a) Construction of the proposed project would generate vehicle trips associated with worker commutes and material and equipment hauling. The increases in trips per day on local and regional roadways within the City could affect roadway capacity and circulation by introducing slower movements and larger turning radii of construction trucks compared to passenger vehicles if the number of trips were to result in a significant increase from the current local conditions. The proposed project would generate construction traffic throughout the 10 -month construction period with periods of heavier use (i.e., during grading) and periods of minimal vehicle use (i.e., site restoration). The proposed project would not conflict with the City of Redding General Plan policies or the City of Redding Parks, Trails, and Open Space Master Plan (City of Redding 2018). The proposed project would not conflict with any program, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, and the impact would be less than significant. b) Section 15064.3(b) of the current CEQA Guidelines shifts transportation impact analysis from a level of service (LOS) standard to a vehicle miles traveled (VMT) standard that refers to the amount and distance of automobile travel attributable to a project. However, VMT does not currently include recreational uses. The proposed project would require some haul, vendor, and worker trips over the 10 -month construction period. The technical advisory provided by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) provides that projects with less than 110 trips per day are presumed less than significant (OPR 2018). The proposed project would result in less than 110 trips per day during construction and would result in no additional maintenance trips during operation of the proposed project. The proposed project would result in a less than significant impact. c) The proposed project, once constructed, would be consistent with existing use and would not result in changes to roadways causing an increase in hazards due to a geometric design feature or incompatible use on any roadways in the area. During construction, equipment and vehicles would be intermittently entering and exiting Aoki Way. This could pose a potential hazard from interaction with the general public on this public roadway. However, construction activities would be temporary and would largely occur within the closed boat launch area (i.e., away from the public roadways) and would not result in a substantial hazard. The proposed project would have no impact related to hazards from geometric design features. Page 42 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study d) Construction of the proposed project would not substantially interfere with emergency access. Constriction activities would be short-term and temporary in nature with possible partial closure and restrictions on Aoki Way. Construction will occur at the end of a dead-end road and through traffic is not possible in the baseline condition. Emergency vehicles would be allowed to come into and out of the construction area as needed. Once constructed, the proposed project area would be open and would not impact emergency access. Therefore, the impact would be less than significant. Documentation City of Redding General Plan, Transportation Element, 2000. City of Redding Parks, Trails, and Open Space Master Plan, 2018. California Office of Planning and Research (OPR). 2018. Technical Advisory On Evaluation Transportation Impacts in CEQA. http://opr.ca.gov/docs/20190122- 743—Technical Advisory.pdf. Mitigation No mitigation required. Would the project: cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope Less -Than - of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural Potentially Significant with Less -Than - value to a California Native American tribe, and that Significant Mitigation Significant is: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local El El El register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k), or b) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (e) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in ❑ ❑ ❑ subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe. Discussion a, b) A letter was sent to the NAFIC on February 10, 2022, requesting a review of their Sacred Lands File and contact information for potentially interested individuals. A response was received on Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 43 February 2023 Initial Study City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division February 28, 2022, which reported that no Native American cultural sites are known in the project area. On February 28, 2022, letters were sent to individuals/groups who may have information regarding the proposed project area. On August 17, 2022, the City sent formal notification of determination that a decision to undertake a project, and notice of consultation opportunity, pursuant to Public Resources Code § 21080.3.1. Two local Tribes responded, and consultation is ongoing. No tribal cultural resources were identified in the project area, and the proposed project would have no impact on tribal cultural resources. Documentation Anthropological Studies Center at Sonoma State University. 2022. Archaeological Resources Study of the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp. Mitigation No mitigation required. XIX. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Page 44 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural El El ® El gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future El El ® El development during normal, dry and multiple dry years? c) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the ❑ ❑ ❑ project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? d) Generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? Page 44 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study Discussion a) The proposed project would not require construction or relocation of water, electrical, natural gas, or telecommunication facilities. The proposed project would require modification and replacement of storm water and wastewater facilities due to the proposed new restroom and expansion of the parking lot. The proposed project would not result in any other infrastructure improvements or require relocation of existing infrastructure beyond what has been analyzed herein; therefore, the proposed project would have a less than significant impact. b) Construction and operation of the proposed project would not require the use of potable water. Water required for construction use, such as for dust control and pipeline testing, would be available from the City's existing water resources and would not require substantial amounts of additional water supplies. Operation of the proposed project would not require water exceeding existing use. The proposed project would have sufficient water supplies to serve the project, and the impact would be less than significant. c) The proposed project would provide wastewater conveyance capacity similar to the existing capacity. The existing wastewater lines will be replaced and relocated. The existing restroom is operated by a small wastewater lift station that serves only the surrounding businesses. The lift station would not be improved and the project would not create additional wastewater capacity. The project has no potential to induce growth and the project would have no impact. d,e) The proposed project construction activities would generate a minor amount of debris requiring disposal at a suitable facility, such as the City's West Central Landfill, which has sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the proposed project with 6,589,044 cubic yards of remaining capacity and a maximum permitted capacity of 700 tons per day (CalRecycle 2019). Standard construction specifications would require recycling of some materials such as concrete to reduce landfill waste. Any potentially hazardous materials would be disposed of at an approved landfill. Through construction specifications, the City will confirm that the proposed project complies with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations pertaining to recycling and disposal of solid waste. The impact would be less than significant. Documentation ■ City of Redding General Plan, Public Facilities Elements, 2000. ■ CalRecycle. 2019. Facility Operations, West Central Landfill. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/SWFacilities/Directory/45-AA-0043/Detail/. Mitigation No mitigation required. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 45 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact e) Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to El El® ❑ solid waste? Discussion a) The proposed project would not require construction or relocation of water, electrical, natural gas, or telecommunication facilities. The proposed project would require modification and replacement of storm water and wastewater facilities due to the proposed new restroom and expansion of the parking lot. The proposed project would not result in any other infrastructure improvements or require relocation of existing infrastructure beyond what has been analyzed herein; therefore, the proposed project would have a less than significant impact. b) Construction and operation of the proposed project would not require the use of potable water. Water required for construction use, such as for dust control and pipeline testing, would be available from the City's existing water resources and would not require substantial amounts of additional water supplies. Operation of the proposed project would not require water exceeding existing use. The proposed project would have sufficient water supplies to serve the project, and the impact would be less than significant. c) The proposed project would provide wastewater conveyance capacity similar to the existing capacity. The existing wastewater lines will be replaced and relocated. The existing restroom is operated by a small wastewater lift station that serves only the surrounding businesses. The lift station would not be improved and the project would not create additional wastewater capacity. The project has no potential to induce growth and the project would have no impact. d,e) The proposed project construction activities would generate a minor amount of debris requiring disposal at a suitable facility, such as the City's West Central Landfill, which has sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the proposed project with 6,589,044 cubic yards of remaining capacity and a maximum permitted capacity of 700 tons per day (CalRecycle 2019). Standard construction specifications would require recycling of some materials such as concrete to reduce landfill waste. Any potentially hazardous materials would be disposed of at an approved landfill. Through construction specifications, the City will confirm that the proposed project complies with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations pertaining to recycling and disposal of solid waste. The impact would be less than significant. Documentation ■ City of Redding General Plan, Public Facilities Elements, 2000. ■ CalRecycle. 2019. Facility Operations, West Central Landfill. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/SWFacilities/Directory/45-AA-0043/Detail/. Mitigation No mitigation required. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 45 February 2023 Initial Study XX. WILDFIRE City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Discussion a -d) The proposed project area is within a local responsibility area and is in an area designated by CAL FIRE that is a `Non -Very High Fire Severity Zone". While all undeveloped areas are susceptible to wildfire, the proposed project would be constructed in compliance withal applicable local, state, and federal requirements, including the California Fire Code, which would minimize the potential for construction equipment to spark a wildland fire. The proposed project would not affect emergency evacuation plans, result in the uncontrolled spread of wildfire, require installation or maintenance of associated wildfire infrastructure, or expose people or structures to significant risks related to wildfires. The proposed project would result in a less -than -significant impact related to wildfires. Construction and operational impacts related to fire hazards would be less than significant. Documentation CAL FIRE. 2008. Very High Fire Severity Zones in LRA- Shasta County. https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6806/fhszl map45.pdf. City of Redding. 2000-2020 General Plan. Health and Safety Element. Mitigation No mitigation required. Page 46 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 Less -Than - If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands Potentially Significant with Less -Than - classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, Significant Mitigation Significant would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency El El ® El response plan or emergency evacuation plan? b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose El El ® El project occupants to, pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire? e) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? d) Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or El El ® El landslides, as a result of runoff, post -fire slope instability, or drainage changes? Discussion a -d) The proposed project area is within a local responsibility area and is in an area designated by CAL FIRE that is a `Non -Very High Fire Severity Zone". While all undeveloped areas are susceptible to wildfire, the proposed project would be constructed in compliance withal applicable local, state, and federal requirements, including the California Fire Code, which would minimize the potential for construction equipment to spark a wildland fire. The proposed project would not affect emergency evacuation plans, result in the uncontrolled spread of wildfire, require installation or maintenance of associated wildfire infrastructure, or expose people or structures to significant risks related to wildfires. The proposed project would result in a less -than -significant impact related to wildfires. Construction and operational impacts related to fire hazards would be less than significant. Documentation CAL FIRE. 2008. Very High Fire Severity Zones in LRA- Shasta County. https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6806/fhszl map45.pdf. City of Redding. 2000-2020 General Plan. Health and Safety Element. Mitigation No mitigation required. Page 46 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study XXI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE Discussion a) The proposed project would have minimal potential to degrade the quality of the environment, affect wildlife populations or their habitats, or reduce the number or restrict the range of rare or endangered plant and animal species. Although special -status wildlife species, including Central Valley spring -run ESU Chinook salmon, Sacramento River winter -run ESU Chinook salmon, and Central Valley DPS steelhead, including designated habitat for these species may be impacted by implementation of the proposed project, standard conservation measures, BMPs, and mitigation measures will be used to avoid adverse impacts on these species. Additionally, implementation of the proposed project is not anticipated to impact cultural resources, therefore the proposed project would not eliminate examples of history or prehistory. b) As described in Section III, the proposed project could temporarily contribute to cumulative air quality impacts. However, these impacts would be considered less than significant and under policy of the City's General Plan, application of standard BMPs would eliminate the potential for air quality impacts during project implementation. Upon project completion the proposed project would not result in an increase in emissions and would therefore not be cumulatively considerable. The project's potential cumulative traffic impacts would be less than significant. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 47 February 2023 Less -Than - Potentially Significant with Less -Than - Significant Mitigation Significant Would the project: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Does the project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below the self-sustaining levels, threaten to El ® El El eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable ❑ ❑ ® ❑ when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? e) Does the project have potential environmental effects which may cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Discussion a) The proposed project would have minimal potential to degrade the quality of the environment, affect wildlife populations or their habitats, or reduce the number or restrict the range of rare or endangered plant and animal species. Although special -status wildlife species, including Central Valley spring -run ESU Chinook salmon, Sacramento River winter -run ESU Chinook salmon, and Central Valley DPS steelhead, including designated habitat for these species may be impacted by implementation of the proposed project, standard conservation measures, BMPs, and mitigation measures will be used to avoid adverse impacts on these species. Additionally, implementation of the proposed project is not anticipated to impact cultural resources, therefore the proposed project would not eliminate examples of history or prehistory. b) As described in Section III, the proposed project could temporarily contribute to cumulative air quality impacts. However, these impacts would be considered less than significant and under policy of the City's General Plan, application of standard BMPs would eliminate the potential for air quality impacts during project implementation. Upon project completion the proposed project would not result in an increase in emissions and would therefore not be cumulatively considerable. The project's potential cumulative traffic impacts would be less than significant. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 47 February 2023 City of Redding Initial Study Public Works Department, Engineering Division c) As discussed in this document, the proposed project does not include any activities that cannot be mitigated to a less -than -significant level or that could otherwise cause substantial adverse impacts on human beings, either directly or indirectly. Documentation ■ See all sections above Mitigation MM -1. All in -water work shall occur during April 1 through June 30 to avoid peak times when listed juvenile anadromous fish would be present. MM -2. Prior to any in -water work, qualified fish biologists, in consultation with CDFW, shall utilize seine netting to work from the edge of water, outward just before berm construction to remove any individuals that could be within the work area. No handling of fish shall occur. Prior to completion of the gravel berm, the area will be surveyed and seined again by qualified fish biologists to ensure absence of fish in the work area. The berm will serve as a barrier to the in -water portion of the project area. After the gravel berm is constructed, the work pad may be constructed. MM -3. Prior to any placement of gravel in water, heavy equipment operation practices shall be implemented that minimize the potential for injury or death of listed fish species, including alerting fish to equipment operation in the channel before gravel is placed in the water (i.e. slow, deliberate equipment operation and gently tapping water surface prior to entering or placing gravels in the river channel). MM -4. The gravel berm and work pad shall be constructed out of 3/4 -inch minus, silt free, clean, spawning -grade gravel that meets Caltrans' cleanness test (California Test No. 227) with a value of 85 or higher. Upon construction completion, the gravel berm would be breached and the gravel pad and berm would be left in place to provide the benefit of approximately 236 cubic yards of spawning grade gravels to augment spawning opportunities for salmon. MM -5. Twenty-four hours (24 -hours) prior to initiation of ground disturbance or vegetation removal within 50 -feet of suitable reptile and/or amphibian habitat (i.e., Sacramento River and riparian areas), a qualified biologist shall perform a pre -construction survey for western pond turtle, their nests, and foothill yellow -legged frog. If western pond turtles, their nests, or yellow -legged frog are encountered in the project area during construction and could be harmed by construction activities, work will stop immediately in the area and CDFW will be notified. Upon authorization from CDFW, a qualified biologist may relocate the individual(s) the shortest distance possible to a location containing habitat outside of the construction impact zone. MM -6. If construction or vegetation removal occurs during the nesting season, February 1 through August 31 for birds and November I through July 15 for raptors, a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey to locate active nests. The pre -construction survey will be performed no more than 7 days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities occurs for 7 days or longer, another pre -construction survey will be performed. If an active nest is Page 48 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Initial Study found, a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a buffer zone to be established around the nest. MM -7. Removal of large trees (10 -inch dbh or greater) with cavities, crevices, or snags shall occur before maternity colonies form (i.e., prior to March 1) or after young are volant (i.e., after August 15). If construction (including the removal of large trees) occurs during the non-volant season (March 1 through August 15), a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey of the project area to locate maternity colonies and identify measures to protect the colonies from disturbance. The pre - construction survey will be performed no more than seven days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities for seven days or longer occurs between those dates, another pre -construction survey will be performed. If a maternity colony is found a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a construction -free buffer zone to be established around the nest. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 49 February 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Figure 1 — Project Vicinity Figure 2 — Project Area Figure 3 — Project Action Area Figure 4 — Boat Launch Ramp Section Initial Study Map V GHD Papw Size ANSI A �rof Redding Project No 12558750 Turtie$ay Boat Ramp Revision No Improvement Project Date 31912022 Gam, . FAC) W*A, LOGS, &area d l.,r9 flapw S�zo AN S� A �� Reddkk. Poject Na, 12558750 0 120 160 N 60 y B"t amp R6Mjon No, r. 1... Feet n wp Lambert GwImm) con�� HomwMa� Uun ibMh Apvkm 1983 aid NAD 1983 SlateRlwe Cablunio I F 79 0401 Foal PI Oject Area FIGURE 2 T.Mqe— U558750 02'R%A— P�d IN5 Paper Size ANSI A 0 100 200 300 400 500 Feet Map Projection: Lambert Conformal Conic Horizontal Datum: North American 1983 City of Redding Project No. 12558750 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Revision No. - Improvement Project Date 11/10/2022 Grid: NAD 1983 StatePlane California I RIPS 0401 Feet ' Action Area \�ghdnet\ghd\US\Redding\Projeats\561\12558750\GIS\Maps\Deliverables\12558750_TuDgay.aprz-12558750_03_AA Data souno, World Imagery: City of Redding GIS, Maxer. Created by: ethompaon3 Natdete: 10 Nov 2022 -12:07 Paper Size ANSI A City of Redding Project No. 12558750 NPETurtle Bay Boat Ramp Revision No. - Improvement Project Date 1111012022 Boat Launch Ramp Section FIGURE 1�ghdnet\ghd\US1Redding\Projeots\561\125587501GI8\Maps\Deliverables\12558750_TudBayaprz Data source:. Created by: ethomp-3 Print date: 10 Nov 2022 - 12.13 ATTACHMENT C Mitigation Monitoring and Environmental Commitment Program MITIGATION MONITORING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT PROGRAM TURTLE BAY BOAT RAMP PROJECT (STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NO. 2023020064) MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM CONTENTS This document is the Mitigation Monitoring and Environmental Commitment Program (MMP/ECP) for the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project (project). The MMP/ECP includes a brief discussion of the legal basis for, and the purpose of, the program, discussion, and direction regarding complaints about noncompliance; a key to understanding the monitoring matrix; and the monitoring matrix. LEGAL BASIS OF AND PURPOSE FOR THE MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM California Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 requires public agencies to adopt mitigation monitoring or reporting programs whenever certifying an environmental impact report (EIR) or a mitigated negative declaration (MND). This requirement facilitates implementation of all mitigation measures adopted through the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. The MMP contained herein is intended to satisfy the requirements of CEQA as they relate to the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared for the project. It is intended to be used by City of Redding (City) staff, participating agencies, project contractors, and mitigation monitoring personnel during implementation of the project. Mitigation is defined by CEQA Guidelines Section 15370 as a measure that does any of the following: ■ Avoids impacts altogether by not taking a certain action or parts of an action. ■ Minimizes impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action and its implementation. ■ Rectifies impacts by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the impacted environment. ■ Reduces or eliminates impacts over time by preservation and maintenance operations during the life of the project. ■ Compensates for impacts by replacing or providing substitute resources or environments. The intent of the MMP is to ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of adopted mitigation measures and permit conditions. The MMP will provide for monitoring of construction activities as necessary, onsite identification and resolution of environmental problems, and proper reporting to City staff. In addition to meeting the CEQA MMP requirements, this document incorporates environmental commitments, standard practices, conservation measures, and best management practices (BMPs). The environmental commitments may be part of the project design, standard contract specifications, City requirements, or conservation measures. These commitments are part of the project, but they do not constitute mitigation under CEQA as they have not been incorporated to reduce a potentially significant impact. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 1 March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation Monitoring Program MITIGATION MONITORING/ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT PROGRAM TABLE The MMP/ECP Table identifies the mitigation measures and commitments proposed for the project. The tables have the following columns: ■ Mitigation Measure: Lists the mitigation measures identified within the Initial Study for a specific potentially significant impact, along with the number for each measure as enumerated in the Initial Study. ■ Environmental Commitment: Lists the commitments identified within the project that are not related to a potentially significant CEQA impact, but further ensure environmental resource protection. ■ Timing: Identifies at what point in time, review process, or phase the mitigation measure will be completed. ■ Agency/Department Consultation: References the City department or any other public agency with which coordination is required to satisfy the identified mitigation measure. ■ Verification: Spaces to be initialed and dated by the individual designated to verify adherence to a specific mitigation measure. NONCOMPLIANCE COMPLAINTS Any person or agency may file a complaint asserting noncompliance with the mitigation measures and commitments associated with the project. The complaint shall be directed to the City in written form, providing specific information on the asserted violation. The City shall investigate and determine the validity of the complaint. If noncompliance with a mitigation measure has occurred, the City shall take appropriate action to remedy any violation. The compliant shall receive written confirmation indicating the results of the investigation or the final action corresponding to the particular noncompliance issue. Page 2 Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation Monitoring Program MITIGATION MONITORING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT PROGRAM TABLE TURTLE BAY BOAT RAMP PROJECT MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM (STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NO. 2023020064) ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS The following environmental commitments will be incorporated into the project to further protect environmental and biological resources: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 3 March 2023 Timing/ Enforcement/ Verification ' Best Management Practices Implementation Monitoring (Date and Initials), Air Quality (AQ) AQ -1. Nontoxic soil stabilizers will be applied according to manufacturer's specification to all Construction Construction inactive construction areas. Management AQ -2. All grading operations will be suspended when winds (as instantaneous gusts) exceed Construction Construction 20 miles per hour. Management AQ -3. Water all stockpiles, access roads, and disturbed or exposed areas, as necessary, to prevent Construction Construction airborne dust. Management AQ -4. Pursuant to the California Vehicle Code (Section 23114(e)(4)) (California Legislative Construction Construction Information 2016), all trucks hauling soil and other loose material to and from the construction Management site will be covered or will maintain at least 6 inches of freeboard (i.e., minimum vertical distance between top of load and the trailer). AQ -5. All public roadways used by the project contractor will be maintained free from dust, dirt, Construction Construction and debris caused by construction activities. Streets will be swept at the end of the day if visible Management soil materials are carried onto adjacent public paved roads. Biological Resources (BIO) BIO -1. As required by the City of Redding Stormwater Quality Management and Discharge Preconstruction/ City/ Control Ordinance, an erosion and sediment control plan (SSCP) or will be prepared to address Construction Construction BMPs that will be used to prevent erosion and sediment loss. The ESCP must also address dust Management control, spill control, pollution control, waste management, equipment maintenance and fueling, and materials storage within the project site. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 3 March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation Monitoring Program Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 4 March 2023 Timing/ Enforcement/ Verification Best Management Practices Implementation Monitoring (Date and Initials) BI0-2. Appropriate erosion and sediment control measures (e.g., silt fences, straw wattles) shall Preconstruction/ City/ be in place prior to the onset of construction activities near jurisdictional waters and in project Construction Construction areas where there is a potential for surface runoff to drain into jurisdictional waters. The Management measures shall be monitored and maintained until construction activities have ceased. BI0-3. High visibility fencing, flagging, or markers will be installed along the edges of the Preconstruction/ City/ work zone near avoided waters and riparian areas. In addition, equipment entry and exit points; Construction Construction and staging, storage, and stockpile areas must be clearly marked prior to the entry of Management mechanized equipment or vehicles into the construction area. BI0-4. The construction area will be fenced, staked, or flagged as close to the limits as feasible. Preconstruction/ City/ Construction Construction Management BI0-5. A qualified biologist will provide training for all contractors, work crews, and any Preconstruction/ City/ onsite personnel on the status of the VELB, its host plant and habitat, the need to avoid Construction Construction damaging the elderberry shrubs, and possible penalties for noncompliance. Management Cultural Resources (CR)' CR -1. If previously unidentified cultural materials are unearthed during construction, it is City Construction City/ policy that work be halted in that area until a qualified archaeologist can assess the significance Construction of the find. Additional archaeological surveys will be needed if the proposed project undertaking Management limits are extended beyond the present survey APE limits. The final disposition of archaeological, historical, and paleontological resources recovered on State land under the jurisdiction of the California State Lands Commission must be approved by the Commission. CR -2. If human remains are discovered during project activities, all activities near the find will Construction City/NAHC/ be stopped, and the Shasta County Sheriff -Coroner's Office will be notified. If the coroner County Coroner determines that the remains may be those of a Native American, the coroner will contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). Treatment of the remains will be conducted in accordance with further direction of the County Coroner or NAHC, as appropriate. Hazards and Hazardous Materials (HAZ) HAZ-1. Hazardous materials, including fuels, oils, cement, and solvents will be stored and Construction City/ contained in an area protected from direct runoff and away from areas where they could enter Construction waters of the United States. Management Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 4 March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation Monitoring Program CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT MITIGATION MEASURES Resource -specific mitigation measures that will be used during project implementation include the following: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 5 March 2023 Timing/ Enforcement/ Verification Best Management Practices Implementation Monitoring (Date and Initials) HAZ-2. Construction equipment will be inspected daily for leaks. Leaking fluids will be Construction City/ contained upon detection, and equipment repairs will be made as soon as practicable, or the Construction leaking equipment will be moved offsite. Management HAZ-3. Secondary containment such as drip pans or absorbent materials will be used to catch Construction City/ spills or leaks when removing or changing fluids. Secondary containment will be used for Construction storage of all hazardous materials. Management HAZ-4. Spill containment and clean-up materials will be kept onsite at all times for use in the Construction City/ event of an accidental spill. Construction Management HAZ-5. Absorbent materials will be used on small spills rather than hosing down or burying the Construction City/ spill. The absorbent material will be promptly removed and disposed of properly. Construction Management Hydrology and Water Quality (WQ) WQ-1. All construction work and stockpiling of materials will be confined to the project Construction City/ disturbance area. Construction Management WQ-2. Temporary stockpiling of excavated or imported material will be placed in upland areas. Construction City/ Construction Management WQ-3. Excess soil will be used onsite or disposed of at a regional landfill or other appropriate Construction City/ facility. Construction Management CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT MITIGATION MEASURES Resource -specific mitigation measures that will be used during project implementation include the following: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 5 March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation Monitoring Program Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 6 March 2023 Timing/ Enforcement/ Verification Mitigation Measure (M) Implementation Monitoring (Date and Initials) Biological Resources (BIO) MM -I. All in -water work shall occur during April 1 through June 30 to avoid peak times when Construction City/ listed juvenile anadromous fish would be present. Construction Management MM -2. Prior to any in -water work, qualified fish biologists, in consultation with CDFW, shall Preconstruction/ City/ utilize seine netting to work from the edge of water, outward just before berm construction to Construction Construction remove any individuals that could be within the work area. No handling of fish shall occur. Management Prior to completion of the gravel berm, the area will be surveyed and seined again by qualified fish biologists to ensure absence of fish in the work area. The berm will serve as a barrier to the in -water portion of the project area. After the gravel berm is constructed, the work pad may be constructed. MM -3. Prior to any placement of gravel in water, heavy equipment operation practices shall be Preconstruction/ City/ implemented that minimize the potential for injury or death of listed fish species, including Construction Construction alerting fish to equipment operation in the channel before gravel is placed in the water (i.e. Management slow, deliberate equipment operation and gently tapping water surface prior to entering or placing gravels in the river channel). MM -4. The gravel berm and work pad shall be constructed out of 3/4 -inch minus, silt free, clean, Construction City/ spawning -grade gravel that meets Caltrans' cleanness test (California Test No. 227) with a Construction value of 85 or higher. Upon construction completion, the gravel berm would be breached and Management the gravel pad and berm would be left in place to provide the benefit of approximately 236 cubic yards of spawning grade gravels to augment spawning opportunities for salmon. MM -5. Twenty-four hours (24 -hours) prior to initiation of ground disturbance or vegetation Preconstruction/ City/ removal within 50 -feet of suitable reptile and/or amphibian habitat (i.e., Sacramento River and Construction Construction riparian areas), a qualified biologist shall perform a pre -construction survey for western pond Management turtle, their nests, and foothill yellow -legged frog. If western pond turtles, their nests, or yellow - legged frog are encountered in the project area during construction and could be harmed by construction activities, work will stop immediately in the area and CDFW will be notified. Upon authorization from CDFW, a qualified biologist may relocate the individual(s) the shortest distance possible to a location containing habitat outside of the construction impact zone. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 6 March 2023 City of Redding Public Works Department, Engineering Division Mitigation Monitoring Program Mitigation Measure (M) Timing/ Implementation Enforcement/ Monitoring Verification (Date and Initials) MM -6. If construction or vegetation removal occurs during the nesting season, February 1 Construction City/ through August 31 for birds and November 1 through July 15 for raptors, a qualified biologist Construction shall conduct a pre -construction survey to locate active nests. The pre -construction survey will Management be performed no more than 7 days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities occurs for 7 days or longer, another pre -construction survey will be performed. If an active nest is found, a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a buffer zone to be established around the nest. MM -7. Removal of large trees (10 -inch dbh or greater) with cavities, crevices, or snags shall Construction City/ occur before maternity colonies form (i.e., prior to March 1) or after young are volant (i.e., after Construction August 15). If construction (including the removal of large trees) occurs during the non-volant Management season (March 1 through August 15), a qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction survey of the project area to locate maternity colonies and identify measures to protect the colonies from disturbance. The pre -construction survey will be performed no more than seven days prior to the implementation of construction activities. If a lapse in construction activities for seven days or longer occurs between those dates, another pre -construction survey will be performed. If a maternity colony is found a qualified biologist (in consultation with the CDFW) will determine the extent of a construction -free buffer zone to be established around the nest. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Page 7 March 2023 ATTACHMENT D Comments and Response to Comments (if any) Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Response to Public Comments Received on CEQA Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration, State Clearinghouse #2023020064 In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) for the Turtle Bay :Boat Ramp Project was made available to the public and interested agencies for a minimum 30 -day review period. The agency review period was managed by the State Clearinghouse (SCH) and closed on March 3, 2023. The public review period was managed by staff and also closed on March 3, 2023. All written comments received during the public and agency review period are attached, along with written responses to environmental issues raised by commenters on the IS/MND. Comments received on the public draft IS/MND do not identify new significant impacts or significant new information that would require recirculation of the draft IS/MND pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15073.5. This technical memorandum is being used to summarize comments and support adoption of the public draft IS/MND. Response to Comments A total of four comment letters were received regarding the IS/MND. The comment letters were submitted by the California State Lands Commission, the Redding Rodeo Association, Marj Cantrell, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The letters are attached to this technical memorandum: California State Lands Commission (Letter A) 1. Letter A was submitted by the California State Lands Commission and includes four comments related to the figures and cultural resources. Comment I and Comment 2. Maps and Figures.- Response: igures: Response: The City of Redding looks forward to coordinating with you to obtain a new lease for the boat ramp. Given the grant timeline and limited value in regard to public disclosure, the City is not able to add revised mapping and figures at this time. However, the City will provide new and modified maps and figures to your office during the lease coordination process. Comment 3 and Comment 4. Cultural Resources.- Response: esources: Response: The City has added the requested language to the final CEQA document. Redding Rodeo Association (Letter B) 2. Letter B was submitted by the Redding Rodeo Association and includes 14 comments. Comment 1. Events and Activities.- Response: ctivities: Response: The boat ramp parking area is a public lot, outside of the Rodeo lease area. The construction project schedule will address impacts to community events by limiting construction activities during specified windows. With environmental restrictions and permitting, the in -water work window is limited to between April 1 and June 30 of any given construction year. Construction area footprints and activities will be limited during events in this window and written into the construction contract. Comment 2. Inclusion and Input: Response: The IS/MND/MMP documents were sent to the State Clearinghouse for a 30 -day public review period and distribution to pertinent state agencies. The documents were sent to local resource agencies, the Shasta County Clerk, and posted on the Public Works Department website. A public notice was also sent to landowners in the vicinity of the project and a Notice of Intent was posted in the local newspaper. In additions, the :Rodeo Association has attended and hosted project meetings during the development process. Comment 3. Contractual Concerns: Response: There are no funds allocated for construction at this time. Staff anticipates a build year of 2027, the year in which the kayak launch at :Riverfront :Park can be decommissioned. There are some impacts to the lease area, and staff anticipates negotiating the lease area should the lease be renewed. Per the design team, the construction window is adequate for the work required to complete the task. Should a delay occur, the same contract provisions concerning work windows and facility availability would be in effect to minimize impacts to existing events and operations. Comment 4. Declaration: Response: The Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project has been in the planning process for approximately 3 -years. In addition to public outreach and consultation with state and federal resource agencies, technical and scientific studies were conducted to identify, and allow the City to consider, any direct and reasonably foreseeable indirect physical changes in the environment which may be caused by the project. Unfortunately the comment regarding missing, flawed, incomplete, or erroneous information cannot be addressed, as it is not specific to an environmental resource and does not contain detailed information that can be reviewed by the City. The City provided the Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15072. Please see the response to comment number 2 for detail. Comment S. Incomplete Evaluation: Response: All environmental factors were evaluated and considered in the Initial Study; however, only those with a potentially significant impact were included in the table. The final environmental document will be modified to include a statement indicating that these categories would have potentially significant impacts. 2 Comment 6. Page Two of the Declaration: Response: All environmental factors were evaluated and considered in the Initial Study. The findings in the Initial Study are supported by consultation with state and federal resource agencies, as well as the technical and scientific studies conducted for the project. Comment 7. Hydrological Concerns: Response: As described in the Initial Study, Section X(c). Hydrology and Water Quality, a Floodplain Encroachment Assessment was prepared by Pacific Hydrologic Incorporated (PHI) to evaluate potential impacts to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regulatory 100 -year floodplain and designated floodway. PHI determined that the project and associated improvements are not within the designated floodway or FEMA floodplain and the project would not result in an encroachment or fill. Comment 8. Water Quality and Pollution Concerns: Response: The City has conducted multiple meetings with the regulatory agencies from which a permit or approval will be required. These agencies include the California State Water :Resources Control Board, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the National Marine Fisheries Service. Each of these agencies are familiar with the project and have provided input regarding construction timing and methods to reduce impacts to water quality. A discussion of potential water quality impacts and conservation measures can be found in the Initial Study, Section X(c). Hydrology and Water Quality. The proposed project is not anticipated to increase use, but instead it will better accommodate the existing boat launch users. The boat ramp will be widened by 3 -feet which will allow two vehicles to launch their non -motorized boats at the same time. The existing ramp allows only a single boat to be launched, while the other vehicles sit while waiting to launch. Water quality will be improved, as the City's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) General Permit requires the project to incorporate storm water treatment features. The treatment features will filter vehicle contaminants from the storm water before it leaves the parking area. The construction will also address current sediment runoff issues stemming from the rodeo ground in -field drainage system, reducing turbidity caused during rain events. The project will improve habitat with new shaded aquatic zones, reduced runoff, and the removal of invasive species. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has requested that the City improve the existing boat launch facility, so that other kayak and drift boat facilities can be decommissioned. The other boat launch facilities need to be decommissioned as they are located in areas where human activity, sediment, and turbidity are harming salmonid redds. 3 Comment 9. Concrete: Response: The project does not include a dam, and the berm has been incorporated based on input from the resource agencies. The berm will consist of clean washed spawning gravel, will prevent construction sediment from creating turbidity in the river, and will be left in the river upon completion to encourage downstream spawning. The widened boat ramp section will be pre -cast concrete and placed in the river. The City is coordinating with the resource agencies and will obtain all necessary permits and approvals. Comment 10. Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act: Response: While it is not required, the City has conducted early consultation with the appropriate regulatory agencies. Please see the response to comment 8. Comment 11. California Environmental Quality Act Compliance: Response: The City is in compliance with CEQA. The CEQA Guidelines Section 15074(b) states, "Prior to approving a project, the decision-making body of the lead agency shall consider the proposed negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration together with any comments received during the public review process. The decision-making body shall adopt the proposed negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration only if it finds on the basis of the whole record before it (including the initial study and any comments received), that there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment and that the negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration reflects the lead agency's independent judgment and analysis." Adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation and Monitoring Program, and approval of the project, is a requirement of CEQA, but does not ensure project funding or future project approvals. Grant funding was used to perform the environmental and design phases of the project; however, additional City Council approval(s) will be required if a funding mechanism is identified for construction. Comment 12. Mitigated Negative Declaration: Response: CEQA Guidelines Section 15063(a) states, "Following preliminary review, the Lead Agency shall conduct an Initial Study to determine if the project may have a significant effect on the environment." If the agency determines that there is substantial evidence that any aspect of the project, either individually or cumulatively, may cause a significant effect on the environment, then an EIR is prepared. Neither the Initial Study nor the comment letter provide evidence of any potentially significant impact that cannot be mitigated to a level that is less than significant. Preparation of an EIR is not warranted. Comment 13. Environmental Impact Report: Response: Neither the Initial Study nor the comment letter provide evidence of any potentially significant impact. Preparation of an EIR is not warranted and a formal alternatives analysis is not required. Unfortunately the comment regarding flaws in the mitigation measures is vague and provides no information regarding a specific environmental resource, mitigation measure, or why 4 the commenter believes it is flawed. Due to the generality, the City is unable to address this comment. Comment 14. Summary: Response: The City has prepared the Initial Study, Mitigated Negative Declaration, and Mitigation and Monitoring Program based on public outreach, consultation with state and federal resource agencies, as well as technical and scientific studies. Based on the whole record (including the Initial Study, supporting documentation, and public comment) and the mitigation measures incorporated into the project, there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment. Marj Cantrell (Letter Q 3. Letter C was submitted by Marj Cantrell and includes 5 comments. Comment 1. Public Input: Response: City staff held a stakeholder meeting at the Redding Rodeo Grounds on March 24, 2022. The meeting included members of the fishing and guide community, the Rodeo Association, representatives from the paddle sport community, Redding Memorial Park, Turtle Bay, the Civic Auditorium and Shasta Living Streets. Additionally, two meetings were held with Rodeo Association staff on August 2, 2022, and November 15`x', 2022. Several on site meetings have taken place with Redding .Memorial Park staff and the Wintu Tribe of Northern California on June 3, 2022. Comment 2. Existing Facility and River Closure: Response: In the last decade, boating activity in Redding has seen a steady rise, and this stretch of the river provides a world-class fly-fishing experience. The City's use data indicates the ramp's popularity has contributed to an over -capacity condition, as the narrow launch ramp does not allow two boats to efficiently launch at one time. Those who use the facility have expressed concern for the lack of capacity and the floating dock's inadequacy for use by drift boats, which are extremely common in the river. Comment 3. Expanded Parking: Response: The Redding Rodeo Association leases land from the City, and the Turtle Bay :Boat Ramp Project abuts the rodeo grounds. The project will impact a small portion of the lease area, and staff anticipates negotiating the lease area should the lease be renewed. Additional parking is needed to meet current recreational demands. The construction project schedule will address impacts to community events by limiting construction activities during specified windows. Comment 4. Alternate Location: Response: This project is a refurbishment of an existing facility as well as a decommissioning of an existing non -motorized launch. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife approached 5 the City regarding the Riverfront Park ramp requesting it be decommissioned to improve salmonid habitat. Those users should be relocated to a similar position on the river, and the existing boat ramp cannot handle the increased demand. Additionally, the aged facility requires a major facelift to meet standards for ADA accessibility and to improve public safety. Construction of a new boat ramp in a new location (Turtle Bay East off of Bechelli Lane or other) would have a much greater environmental impact (fish, water quality, traffic, etc.). Widening the existing boat ramp is cost effective and results in less environmental impact. Comment S. Public Comment Period: Response: In addition to the public outreach that was conducted for the project (see response to comment 1), the IS/MND/MMP documents were sent to the State Clearinghouse for a 30 -day public review period and distribution to pertinent state agencies. The documents were sent to local resource agencies, the Shasta County Clerk, and posted on the Public Works Department website. A public notice was also sent to landowners in the vicinity of the project and a Notice of Intent was posted in the local newspaper. The grant timeline is strict, any variance from the project schedule included in the grant contract may result in the loss of grant funding. Staff is confident in the stakeholder engagement and that design of the facility will meet the needs of the users, who have reviewed and commented on the project plans. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Letter D) 4. Letter D was submitted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and includes 1 comment. Comment 1. Studies and Avoidance and Minimization Measures: Response: The City appreciates the early coordination and input provided by CDFW staff. 0 STATE OF CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA STATE LANDS COMMISSION 100 Howe Avenue, Suite 100 -South Sacramento, CA 95825-8202 March 3, 2023 City of Redding Amber Kelley 777 Cypress Avenue Redding, CA 96001 VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL ONLY ake1Iey@)cityofredding.org GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor JENNIFER LUCCHESI, Executive Officer 916.574.1800 TTY CA Relay Service: 711 or Phone 800.735.2922 from Voice Phone 800.735.2929 or for Spanish 800.855.3000 Contact Phone: 916.574.1900 File Ref: SCH #2023020064 Subject: Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project, Shasta County Dear Amber Kelley: The California State Lands Commission (Commission) staff has reviewed the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) for the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project (Project), which is being prepared by the City of Redding (City). The City, as the public agency proposing to carry out the Project, is the lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Pub. Resources Code, § 21000 et seq.). The Commission is a trustee agency for projects that could directly or indirectly affect State sovereign land and their accompanying Public Trust resources or uses. Additionally, because the Project involves work on State sovereign land, the Commission will act as a responsible agency. Commission Jurisdiction and Public Trust Lands The Commission has jurisdiction and management authority over all ungranted tidelands, submerged lands, and the beds of navigable lakes and waterways. The Commission also has certain residual and review authority for tidelands and submerged lands legislatively granted in trust to local jurisdictions (Pub. Resources Code, §§ 6009, subd. (c); 6009.1; 6301; 6306). All tidelands and submerged lands, granted or ungranted, as well as navigable lakes and waterways, are subject to the protections of the common law Public Trust Doctrine. City of Redding Page 2 March 3, 2023 As general background, the State of California acquired sovereign ownership of all tidelands and submerged lands and beds of navigable lakes and waterways upon its admission to the United States in 1850. The State holds these lands for the benefit of all people of the State for statewide Public Trust purposes, which include but are not limited to waterborne commerce, navigation, fisheries, water -related recreation, habitat preservation, and open space. On navigable non -tidal waterways, including lakes, the State holds fee ownership of the bed of the waterway landward to the ordinary low-water mark and a Public Trust easement landward to the ordinary high-water mark, except where the boundary has been fixed by agreement or a court. Such boundaries may not be readily apparent from present day site inspections. The main channel of the Sacramento River, at the project location, is natural, navigable, non -tidal, and, therefore, State sovereign land under the Commission's jurisdiction. A lease will be required for the portions of the project extending into the river below the ordinary low water mark. Project DescriDtion The City proposes to upgrade their facilities at the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp site to meet the City's residents' increased interest in boating and fly-fishing. From the Project Description, Commission staff understands that the Project would include a two-lane boat ramp, an extension of the existing floating dock, and a new boating access beach adjacent to the ramp for drift boats and non - motorized vessel launching, all of which have potential to affect State sovereign land. Environmental Review Commission staff requests that the City consider the following comments on the Project's IS/MND, to ensure that impacts to State sovereign land are adequately analyzed for the Commission's use of the IS/MND when considering a future lease application for the Project. General Comments Comment 1 1. Missing base layer: In Figure 3, the map showing the kayak launch to be decommissioned in 2027, the base layer is missing. Please include a base layer to the map. Comment 2 2. Additional Figure: Please include a figure that shows the potential locations for the boat ramp and boating access beach. This will allow Commission Staff to determine which components of the project will be in Commission City of Redding Page 3 March 3, 2023 jurisdiction and better aid with determining potential environmental impacts as a Responsible Agency. Cultural Resources 3. Title to Resources Within Commission Jurisdiction: The IS/MND should state Comment 3 that the title to all abandoned shipwrecks, archaeological sites, and historic or cultural resources on or in the tide and submerged lands of California is vested in the State and under the jurisdiction of the Commission (Pub. Resources Code, § 6313). Commission staff requests that the City consult with Staff Attorney Jamie Garrett should any cultural resources on State lands be discovered during construction of the proposed Project. Comment 4 Staff requests that the following statement be included in the IS/MND's Best Management Practices, CR -1: "The final disposition of archaeological, historical, and paleontological resources recovered on State land under the jurisdiction of the California State Lands Commission must be approved by the Commission." Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the IS/MND for the Project. As a responsible and trustee agency, the Commission will rely on the adopted IS/MND when issuing a new lease as specified above (see Section "Commission Jurisdiction and Public Trust Lands"). We request that you consider our comments before adopting the IS/MND. Please send electronic copies of the adopted IS/MND, Mitigation Monitoring Program, Notice of Determination, and approving resolution when they become available. Please note that federal and state laws require all government entities to improve accessibility of information technology and content by complying with established accessibility requirements. (29 U.S.C. § 794d; 36 C.F.R. § 1194.1 et seq.; Gov. Code, § 7405.) California State law prohibits State agencies from publishing on their websites content that does not comply with accessibility requirements. (Gov. Code, § 115467.) Therefore, any documents submitted to Commission staff during the processing of a lease or permit, including all CEQA documentation, must meet accessibility requirements for Commission staff to place the application on the Commission agenda. Refer questions concerning environmental review to Christine Day, Environmental Scientist, at Christine.Da @DsIc.cg --,, or (916) 562-0027. For questions concerning archaeological or historic resources under Commission jurisdiction, please contact Jamie Garrett, Staff Attorney, at Jamie Qarrett@sIc.cg -goy or (916) 574-0398. For questions concerning City of Redding Page 4 March 3, 2023 Commission leasing jurisdiction, please contact Ninette Lee, Public Land Management Specialist, at.Ninette.Lee@slc.ca.gov or (916) 574-1869. Sincerely, 'Ok" ��� - Nicole Dobroski, Chief Division of Environmental Science, Planning, and Management cc: Office of Planning and Research C. Day, Commission J. Garrett, Commission N. Lee, Commission REDDING P.O. Box 992048 Redding, CA ••ii• March 3, 2023 Amber Kelley Environmental Compliance Manager, Public Works Department, Engineering Division City of Redding 777 Cypress Avenue Redding, CA 96001 Mayor Michael Dacquisto & City Councilors City of Redding P. O. Box 496071 Redding, CA 96049-6071 Via email Re: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Dear Ms. Kelley, Mayor Dacquisto, and Honorable City Councilors: The Redding Rodeo Association (hereafter, the "Association") has reviewed the project documents, Initial Study, and the City Public Works Department's recommended Mitigated Negative Declaration for the proposed Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project, and hereby submits comments for the public record. The Association is an interested and affected party as the project directly impacts Association operations and events and proposes a "taking of property" on the adjoining Redding Rodeo grounds at 715 Auditorium Drive which the City currently leases to the Association. Backivound Since 1948, the Association and its affiliate and subsidiary organizations have hosted an event steeped in Western Heritage and unique to Northern California. The 4 -day Redding Rodeo each May is a major stop on the professional rodeo circuit, and the Rodeo was inducted to the Pro -Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2016. This year, the Rodeo will mark its 75`x' anniversary. The Rodeo grounds is also used as a livestock evacuation center during fires and offers a place for other community events such as the Benefit Motocross Races. In recent years the Association has spent an unusual amount or time and resources defending against numerous attempts to circumvent the Association's historical use of the Rodeo Grounds. Page 1 of 6 Redding Rodeo Association Comment on Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. The forward movement of the Turtle Bay :Boat Ramp project was surprising due to the fact the City Council just voted to spend $1.2 million to hire a firm to complete this Riverfront Specific Plan. If there is an opportunity to carve out areas from the Riverfront Specific Plan such as the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project, the Association would like the same opportunity as related to the Redding Rodeo Grounds. Comments Specific to the Proposed Proiect While we understand and support the need for boating and recreational access to the river, this project is overly ambitious and should be reconsidered. • Impact on Events and Activities. As proposed, the project will have a significant, and highly Comment 1 detrimental effect on the Association and other community activities that take place on the Rodeo grounds. The proposed timelines and construction activities are very problematic given the scheduling of much of the work during the time the rodeo is held each year. The entire contestant parking is marked as a part of the project on the maps included in the notice of public comment. Project plans at this time offer no reasonable and suitable mitigating solutions. • Lack of Inclusion and Input. The Association received no notice of the release of the Mitigated Comment 2 Negative Declaration and heard about this from a concerned citizen. This lack of inclusion and input raises public transparency concerns. Contractual, Legal, and Liability Issues. The project plan fails to address legal, and liability issues surrounding the City's long standing contractual arrangement with the Association for Comment 3 management, operation, and use of the Rodeo grounds, which currently does not expire until 2026. The 10 -month project presupposes significant construction work at the time of year when the Rodeo grounds are most utilized for events. The project also requires abandonment and/or removal of critical Rodeo grounds infrastructure. Further, it is unreasonable to assume the project can be completed in the 10 -month period allotted. For example, if construction reveals previously unknown geological, hydrologic, or archaeological issues, the project could be delayed long term. If the Association had to cancel the Rodeo as as a result of the project it would incur a substantial financial loss, damage to goodwill and reputation, and the local charitable and community organizations and businesses who benefit financially from the events will suffer hardship and economic loss. The City should carefully weigh its contractual obligations, exposure to potential liability, and the economic impact upon the Rodeo and the :Redding community at large, therefore, before proceeding with the project. Page 2 of 6 Redding Rodeo Association Comment on Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. Comments Specific to the Proposed Mitigative Negative Declaration Comment 4 The Declaration's Project Description states: "....The City of Redding conducted an Initial Study (attached) that determined that the proposed project could have significant environmental effects on biological resources.... " That statement alone should signal a measured and well thought, well planned approach should be taken by the City. The proposed Declaration relies on City staff findings contained in the project Initial Study. We acknowledge the work of by City staff, but based on our review, we believe both the Declaration and the initial study may contain missing, flawed, incomplete, and/or erroneous information. Additionally, the City appears to have failed to timely and adequately provide notice of findings and its intent to all interested parties, or parties mandated by law to receive notification. Specific Concerns: • Incomplete Evaluation of Environmental Factors. Documents support questioning if the adequately evaluated or considered all the potential environmental factors involved in the Comment 5 project. Even to a layperson, the scope of the work described in the main project narrative clearly affects many other environmental factors beyond those identified by the City's Public Works Department (see table below), yet those were not addressed in the Declaration and Study or described as mostly as "... less than significant impact". City of Redding Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project Initial Study February 2023 ENNgRONNIIEENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED The envirormiental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project. Aesthetics Agricultural and Air Quality Forestry Resources x Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy Geology/Soils Greenhouse Gas Hazards & Hazardous Emissions Materials Hydrology/Water Land Use/Plarining 1 illeral Resoutrces Quality No€se Population,"Housing Public services Recreation) Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources Utilities service Wildfire x Mandatory Findings of systems significance Comment 6 Page two of the Declaration states: "... 1) Based on the whole record (including the Initial Study and any supporting documentation) and the mitigation measures incorporated into the project, the City of Redding has determined that there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment.... " Page 3 of 6 Redding Rodeo Association Comment on Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. Common sense dictates that no reasonable person could believe that the large excavation, subsequent fill, in -water work, construction of a berm and ramp, infrastructure removal or re- location, and expansion of parking, trails, and recreational areas, together with the increased traffic and use of the new boat ramp and recreation area upon completion would not greatly impact area environmental factors. We need not list those other factors; they are reflected in the table above. • Hydrological Concerns. If there is a constant with rivers and waterways, it is change. Rivers change character along their courses and over time; what happens on one river segment affects Comment 7 everything downstream. It is irresponsible for the City to assert that the proposed project will have little impact on the river without the benefit of a detailed environmental impact assessment. • Water Quality and Pollution Concerns. The proposed project will generate increased boating and shoreline activities, increasing the potential to introduce water pollutants such as petroleum Comment 8 hydrocarbons (e.g. fuel and oil), toxic metals (e.g. anti-foulants and hull/boat maintenance chemicals), other liquid and solid wastes, including debris, litter, pet wastes and sewage. Boat ramps and launches can easily alter habitats at a site. Shoreline vegetation may be reduced at some locations, and bottom sediments may be stirred up more frequently with boating activity. The river at that location already experiences moderate turbidity and sedimentation according to the EPA' and increased boating use may exacerbate the issue. The Turtle Bay Boat ramp currently experiences 1,500 to 5,300 day uses per year, and expanding the facility will only increase its impact on the river and local roads, residents, and other uses. Comment 9 The project would require significant amount of concrete in the dam, berm, and above water hardscape surfaces. Nationwide studies show that city streams and rivers carry dissolving concrete constituent elements, including calcium and carbonate minerals, which flow into urban waterways and affect their pH, or acidity, and therefore their ability to sustain aquatic life.' The Turtle :Bay boat ramp already lies within an area designed by the EPA to contain imperiled species and habitats. • Adequate Required Notification Under Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act. The Comment 10 Clean Water Act requires authorization from the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Corps of Engineers (USACE), for the discharge of dredged or fill material into all waters of the United States, including wetlands. The USACE Sacramento District Office has jurisdiction over the Sacramento :River at the Turtle Bay ramp. Neither the Declaration or the Initial Study reflect or infer that the City consulted with the USACE in the preparation of the study or the Declaration. It seems reasonable to do so at the initial project stages, since the USACE will be the permitting agency for the Clean Water Act permits necessary to the project; that agency could likely offer comment and key advice. 1 US Environmental Protection Agency EnviroAtlas 2 National Science Foundation. "A river runs through it: U.S. cities` waterways show consistent patterns of evolution; Urban waters record salt in food, cement in sidewalks. September 10, 2014 Page 4 of 6 Redding Rodeo Association Comment on Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. • California Environmental Quality Act Compliance (CEQA). CEQA is a statutory scheme requiring cities and other public agencies to consider the environmental consequences of their Comment 11 actions before approving plans or policies or otherwise committing to a course of action on a project. By proposing to adopt a Mitigative Negative Declaration for the project, the City has acknowledged the project is not statutorily or categorically exempt from CEQA compliance. CEQA compliance must occur before a public agency approves a project. The term "approves" however, does not mean final approval. Instead, "approval" refers to "the decision by a public agency which commits the agency to a definite course of action in regard to a project intended to be carried out by any person." Adopting the Mitigative Negative Declaration certainly commits the City to a definite course of action. In opting to seek a Mitigative Negative Declaration for this project, the City is attempting to avoid preparing a CEQA Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The Initial Study, and the issues Comment 12 raised in this letter, are substantial evidence and likely sufficient to meet the "fair argument standard" which triggers an EIR.3 CEQA's purpose of informed decision making and preference for environmental decision making have set a low threshold for requiring an EIR. The low threshold has been upheld repeatedly by California courts.4 Even though conditions or mitigation measures are introduced in a Mitigative Negative Comment 13 Declaration, they do not preclude the need to prepare an EIR if information meeting the fair argument standard discussed above is introduced into the record.5 Additionally, we note that CEQA requires consideration of project alternatives if an EIR is required; something that the City's proposed Mitigative Negative Declaration apparently seeks to avoid. We believe the proposed Mitigative Negative Declaration contains flaws in that it presupposes deferred mitigative measures in the course of the project, which are generally impermissible under CEQA. We believe use of a Mitigative Negative Declaration by the City is inappropriate for this project and violates the spirit, if not the law, with respect to CEQA applicability. 3 "If there is substantial evidence, in light of the whole record before the lead agency, that the project may have a significant effect on the environment, an environmental impact report shall be prepared." Pub. Res. Code section 21080(d) 4 See Citizens Action to Serve All Students v. Thornley (1990) 222 Cal. App. 3d 748, 754; Citizens of Lake Murray Area Assn. v City Council (1982) 129 Cal. App. 3d 436, 440; Mejia v. City of Los Angeles, (2005) 130 Cal. App. 4th 322, 332. 5 See Pub. Res. Code section 21064.5; CEQA Guidelines section 15070(b)(2). 6 CEQA Guidelines section 15130 Page 5 of 6 Redding Rodeo Association Comment on Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. Summary As stated previously, the Association sympathizes with the City's desire to improve boating and recreational activities on the Sacramento River. However, the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp project as proposed presents many as yet unresolved issues and challenges. Not all of them have been raised in this letter; we have attempted to point out only a few salient issues. Comment 14 In our opinion, approval of the proposed Mitigative Negative Declaration by the City Council at this time would be highly premature, and the City Council should return it to the City's Public Works Department for additional research and further review while all factors of the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp are reviewed and approved. Thank you for the opportunity to submit comment and present our concerns. We also believe improvements can be made to the existing Turtle Bay :Boat ramp while mitigating their effect on the historic heritage of the Redding and the millions of dollars in economic impact our brings to the Redding Community. The Association also wishes to express its desire for cooperation in present and future projects to our mutual benefit and for the residents of the City of Redding and Shasta County. Sincerely, f�a t" d' Cindy Schonholtz, General Manager On behalf of the The Redding Rodeo Association Board of Directors Page 6 of 6 Redding Rodeo Association Comment on Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Project. DocuSign Envelope ID: A03E327D-844E-482C-9910-92E663F3D4FB 1-�� State of California — Natural Resources AgencV Comment Letter D GAVIN NEWSOM IMAJUX] Governor DEPAR MENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE CHARLTON H. BONHAM, Director Northern Regio 601 Locust Street Nn Redding, CA 96001 www.wildiffe.ca.-gov Amber Kelley, Environmental Compliance Manager City of Redding Public Works Engineering Division 777 Cypress Avenue Redding CA 96001 #" I g Lei o [#1114M L191 MRIEUMMYTionnif sm"Plar-Majoill The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has reviewed the draft Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration (ISIVIND), dated February 2023, for the above referenced project which proposes to widen an existing boat ramp, add a boating access beach for non -motorized boating vessels, add parking stalls, add an ADA -compliant restroom, add a drinking fountain, add a small overlook area with picnic tables, replace and extend a wastewater line, and extend the Sacramento River Trail (Project). CDFW's review of this Project is pursuant to our role as the State's trustee agency for fish and wildlife resources under the California Environmental Quality Act, California Public Resources Code section 21000 et seq. Additionally, as a State responsible agency, CDFW administers the California Endangered Species Act and other provisions of the Fish and Game Code that conserve the State's fish and wildlife public trust resources. CDFW acknowledges that the City of Redding appropriately analyzed potential Comment I impacts to biological resources which includes a Biological Resources Report, waters delineation, seasonally appropriate botanical surveys and the preparation of a Biological Assessment for listed salmonids. CDFW concurs with the avoidance and minimization measures, as listed in the ISIVIND, to minimize and/or avoid potential impacts to biological resources due to the Project. Therefore, CDFW has no comment. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Project to assist the City of Redding in adequately analyzing and minimizing impacts to biological resources. 11111 11 11��l I 1� 1��! 111 DocuSign Envelope ID: A03E327D-844E-482C-9910-92E663F3D4FB Amber Kelley City of Redding March 3, 2023 Page 2 of 2 If you have any questions, please contact Erika lacuna, Environmental Scientist, by email at R1 CEQAReddinq(a-)wildlife.ca.ciov. Sincerely, E -.j�r- DocuSigned by, 6ahcoc-A --,74D273FEE784'E2 Curt Babcock for Tina Bartlett, Regional Manager Northern Region ec: State Clearinghouse State. Clearinqhouse(a)or)r.ca.qov Erikalacona rAlkS t E7AhqCM kv� NW& �Jllm lam .r So"'kite History o Expanded parking and dock in 2004 2015- stakeholder collaboration & grassroots funding effort begins - Fly Fishing Film Tour 2016- Redding Riffle restoration grant 2021- Wildlife Conservation Board grant 2021- Design development and environmental 2022- Boat ramp design meetings and outreach 2023- 90% design & ready to file for permits rAlkS t E7AhqCM kv� NW& �Jllm lam .r rAlkS t E7AhqCM kv� NW& �Jllm lam .r rAlkS t E7AhqCM kv� NW& �Jllm lam .r rAlkS t E7AhqCM kv� NW& �Jllm lam .r rAlkS t E7AhqCM kv� NW& �Jllm lam .r r r rAlkS t E ,/r ! lam1 ,rr'X4111E I ME !FLF4 P, " 1, WE rAlkS t E7AhqCM kv� NW& �Jllm lam .r From: Members Council To: Julie Winter; Michael Dacauisto; Jack Munns; Tenessa Audette; Mark Mezzano Cc: Lawn. Barry; Bade. Steve; DeWaLBarry; Niemer. Kim; Barnhart. Erin; Mize. Pam; Tioton. Sharlene Subject: Fw: Proposed Boat Ramp Approval - Item 9.6(a) on the 4/4/23 Council Agenda 9.6(a) Date: Monday, April 3, 2023 1:53:46 PM From: Carl Bott <carlbott@kcnr1460.com> Sent: Monday, April 3, 2023 1:21 PM To: Dacquisto, Michael; Mezzano, Mark; Winter, Julie; Audette, Tenessa; Munns, Jack Cc: Tippin, Barry Subject: Proposed Boat Ramp Approval CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Redding; please be careful with links or attachments. zu I walked the area where the new boat ramp proposal is situated and I have a few questions: 1. It takes approximately 20k feet of the leased area of the Redding Rodeo. This will impact on the parking and warm up areas for the contestants. Is there any mitigation with this? How do you take 20k feet of leased area from the RRA? 2. The Council on a 3-2 vote would not extend the Redding Rodeo Association lease due to the upcoming Watel-Front plan. How can you approve this change before the Waterfront plan is finished? 3. Having talked to the fishing guides, it appears that the new boat ramp is not something they asked for. Why does this have to take place as planned? 4. As you know the Redding Rodeo brings in approximately $9-$11 million a year. Why would you do anything to detract from that? How much money does this boat ramp make a year? 5. Will there be Town Hall meetings discussing this project? The STR changes would seem like a walk in the park compared to this. 6. Do you, as City Council members, want to keep the rodeo in its present location? Or even keep the rodeo? Anything that impacts on a 75 year tradition in our city should call for total transparency and Town Halls so the people of Redding have a say in this. Thank you, Carl Carl Bott Free Fire Media Inc. KCNR 96.5 FM and 1460 AM Office: 530 605-4565 Studio: 530G05-4567 Fax: 58O6O5-4561 From: Members Council To: Julie Winter; Michael Dacauisto; Jack Munns; Tenessa Audette; Mark Mezzano Cc: Lawn. Barry; Bade. Steve; DeWaLBarry; Niemer. Kim; Barnhart. Erin; Tipton. Sharlene; Mize. Pam Subject: Fw: Posse Grounds Boat Ramp Improvement - Item 9.6(a) on the 4/4/23 Council Agenda Date: Monday, April 3, 2023 2:00:41 PM Attachments: Club to CQR.odf From: Kurt Mitchell <kurt4949@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, April 3, 2023 12:18 PM To: Dacquisto, Michael; Mezzano, Mark; Winter, Julie; Audette, Tenessa; Munns, Jack Cc: Kurt Mitchell Subject: Posse Grounds Boat Ramp Improvement CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Redding; please be careful with links or attachments. Please review and consider the attached letter for the City Council Meeting on Tuesday April 4, 2023. Thank you, Kurt Mitchell President Shasta Trinity Fly Fishers Shasta `Trinity Fly Fishers 3100 Venus Way Redding, CA 96002 April 2, 2023 Statement from the Shasta Trinity Fly Fishers regarding ♦! for the Boat Launch adjacent to the Rodeo Grounds, aka. Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Improvement 1?roject: Shasta Trinity Fly Fishers is an active club of 200 plus members working, living and fishing in northern California. We have been meeting for nearly 50 years and have contributed, often as the leaders, to many conservation efforts in and around our water resources. We are interested in the natural beauty, aesthetics and health of our world-class fisheries. We strongly support the City of Redding's proposal for improvement to the Turtle Bay Ramp. The Sacramento River is one of the most important resources for our community, for many stakeholder groups including anglers, boaters, rafters, kayakers, hikers, bikers, and many more. The Turtle Bay Boat Ramp provides important public access to the most popular stretch of this world-class river. In fact, this launch site is the most used access on the river. Fishing is an important economic driver for our community. Thousands of anglers from all over the country — and all over the world — come to our area to experience the beauty, and incredible fishing, that the Sacramento River has to offer. Yet for many of these out-of-town visitors, their first impression is a pot- holed parking lot, an aging boat launch, and a bathroom facility that can be described as deplorable at best. It is in dire need of improvement. Moreover, the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Improvement Project should not be confused with other debates about potential development for this specific area. The process to re -habilitate the Boat Ramp began over a decade ago, and many local stakeholder groups have been advocating for this for many years now. The fly fishing community even raised funds to help get the project started as far back as 2012. We have supported this project both financially and through advocacy, for many years now, and look forward to final funding and implementation in the very near future. Signed, 41 t Kurt Mitchell President Shasta Trinity Fly Fishers "ITMORMOM Frank Schabaium (Vice President) Bob Williams Phil Ryan Kris Durfee (Secretary) Judy Decker Inouye Jim Tornillo Gerry Martin (Treasurer) Charlie Harper John Durfee Deb Ksenzulak From: Members, Council To: Julie Winter; Michael Dacquisto; Jack Munns; Tenessa Audette; Mark Mezzano Cc: Lawn. Barry; Bade. Steve; _Barnhart Erin; _Niemer rim; DgVAI_tBarry; Woodstrom. Camile; Tinton. Sharlene Subject: Fw: Correspondence regarding item 9.6(a) Attached Date: Tuesday, April 4, 2023 3:39:59 PIVI Attachments: Grunt FI fishing -letter to Redding City Council 30 March 2023.docx From: Matt Dahl <gruntflyfishing@grnail.corn> Sent: Tuesday, April 4, 2023 12:25 PM To: CityClerk; Munns, Jack; Winter, Julie; Audette, Tenessa; Mezzano, Mark; Dacquisto, Michael Subject: CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Redding; please be careful with links or attachments. March 30, 2023 Honorable Mayor and City Council City of Redding 777 Cypress Avenue Redding, CA 96001 Re: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Improvement Project Hello, My name is Matt Dahl. My wife Megan and I own and operate Grunt Fly Fishing (Grunt Fly Fishing - Guided Fly Fishing Trips near Redding,, CA). We are a veteran -owned small business. I served in the US Marine Corps including two deployments to Iraq. After finishing my enlistment, I returned to my hometown of Redding. One reason was family. The other was the beautiful environment I grew up in — the Sacramento River, mountain streams, and the many outdoor activities Redding has to offer. My business supports our family, which includes three young daughters. The Sacramento River guided trip is one of our most popular fly fishing tours and is critical to our business. The City of Redding has been diligently working on the Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Improvement Project for several years. This project will greatly renovate and enhance the boat launch area, relieve congestion, and provide safer access for fishing guides, drift boats, rafts, and kayaks. The endeavor will also extend the river trail and replace the dilapidated restrooms. Equally important, this will allow the raft launch to be at the ramp and not over sensitive salmon spawning beds. It is imperative that the Redding City Council approve the next step of the project, CEQA adoption, which will allow the submission of permit applications to applicable agencies. I respectfully urge you to approve this next critical step in the process. Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to discuss this important project. Sincerely, Matt Dahl Grunt Fly Fishing 11396 Eden Drive Redding, CA 96003 mattdahlflyfish@gmail.com (530) 941-5611 From: Members, Council To: Julie Winter; Michael Dacquisto; Jack Munns; Tenessa Audette; Mark Mezzano Cc: Lawn. Barry; Bade. Steve; _Barnhart Erin; _Niemer rim; DgVAI_tBarry; Woodstrom. Camile; Tinton. Sharlene Subject: Fw: Correspondence regarding item 9.6(a) Attached Date: Tuesday, April 4, 2023 3:39:59 PIVI Attachments: Grunt FI fishing -letter to Redding City Council 30 March 2023.docx From: Matt Dahl <gruntflyfishing@grnail.corn> Sent: Tuesday, April 4, 2023 12:25 PM To: CityClerk; Munns, Jack; Winter, Julie; Audette, Tenessa; Mezzano, Mark; Dacquisto, Michael Subject: CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Redding; please be careful with links or attachments. From: Members Council To: Julie Winter; Michael Dacquisto; Jack Munns; Tenessa Audette; Mark Mezzano Cc: Lawn. Barry; Bade. Steve; DeWaLBarry; Niemer. Kim; Barnhart. Erin; Tipton. Sharlene; Mize. Pam; Woodstrom, Camile Subject: Fw: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Improvement -- Item 9.6(a) for the City Council Meeting on 4/4/23 Date: Tuesday, April 4, 2023 11:22:50 AM From: Janet <jancystone416@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, April 4, 2023 10:48 AM To: Dacquisto, Michael Subject: Turtle Bay Boat Ramp Improvement CAUTION: This email originated from outside the City of Redding; please be careful with kinks or attachments. Mr. Dacquisto I have just learned of the council plan to enlarge the boat ramp and parking at Turtle Bay that the council is to vote on this day. I feel that this is being pushed through without public knowledge, perhaps as a back side to get rid of the Redding Rodeo grounds. This year will be the 75th anniversary of the Redding Rodeo and it is one of the largest Rodeo's, drawing many high ranking contestants. It is highly rated in the Rodeo Ranks and brings in millions of dollars Redding and surrounding communities. Will taking out the parking and an important part of the contestant area benefit our community in the same way? I am not opposed to improving the boat ramp area, but I am opposed to destroying so much of the rodeo grounds when there is a large boat ramp and parking Just a mile or two down the river. Please do NOT vote yes for the Boat ramp improvement as it stands. Thank you, Janet Stone