HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 2016 0302 CCSA REG ITEM 09A ITEM 9.A.
CITY OF MOORPARK,CALIFORNIA
City Council Meeting
MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL
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AGENDA REPORT ACTION: 4090L4.0.4.1 atae
TO: Honorable City Council BY; at
FROM: Brian Chong, Administrative Services Manager—
DATE: February 22, 2016 (CC Meeting of 3/2/16)
SUBJECT: Consider Sponsorship Letter for AB 2189 to Direct the Santa Monica
Mountains Conservancy to Evaluate Possible Expansion of the
Boundaries of the Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor to Include the City
of Moorpark and Surrounding Areas
BACKGROUND
The Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (SMMC) was established by the California
State Legislature in 1980. Since that time, it has worked with local governments, state
and federal agencies, landowners, and community-based organization to preserve over
72,000 acres of parkland and improve more than 100 recreational facilities throughout
Southern California. The SMMC boundaries are established by state law. Staff is
recommending that the City sponsor AB 2189, state legislation that would direct a study
of the City of Moorpark and specific surrounding open space areas for possible
inclusion within the boundaries of the SMMC's Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor. State
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin has introduced AB 2189 to the State Assembly.
Inclusion of any portion of the City within the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy
boundaries would advance two goals of the City's current Legislative Program
(approved May 2015):
• Environment / Open Space Goal H: Support funding and legislation for the
designation and preservation of open space and preservation, restoration,
and enhancement of natural resources.
• Environment / Open Space Goal I: Support legislation that makes funds
available to refurbish and improve parks, and to acquire and maintain open
space.
The SMMC would have an enhanced ability to provide financial assistancen technical
assistance, and programming within any included area within or around the City.
Inclusion may be particularly helpful in securing grants from the SMMC or its partners.
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Honorable City Council
March 2, 2016 Regular Meeting
Page 3
It should be noted that any newly included areas within the SMMNRA boundaries will
generally not change any land use authority or land ownership on privately-owned
lands. Rather, inclusion would allow the NPS to:
• Provide funding and authority for capital improvements, such as new
recreational trails and access roads
• Produce and conduct outreach to local communities, organizations, and
schools to promote opportunities to visit parks for healthy recreational
activities
• Direct land management
• Provide funding for land acquisition from willing sellers
For reference, from 2001 to 2011, the SMMNRA acquired nearly 1,800 acres of land for
approximately $14,000,000, effectively preserving open space and expanding
recreational opportunities in perpetuity. •
Approval of the proposed SMMNRA expansion requires Congressional legislation,
which has not yet been introduced given the short amount of time between the
transmittal of the Special Resources Study and the writing of this staff report. Additional
information about the Special Resources Study is provided in Attachment 3.
DISCUSSION
AB 2189, as introduced by State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, would add Section
33204.8 to the California Public Resources Code and direct the SMMC to prepare a
revised map showing changes in its Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor within and in the
vicinity of the City of Moorpark, based on relevant scientific and land use studies and
after holding at least one public hearing in the Moorpark area.
The area to be studied would include all areas within the City of Moorpark, plus three
additional areas adjacent to the City, as listed and shown on the following page:
• The area north of the City limits and south of Broadway Road between Happy
Camp Canyon Regional Park and Grimes Canyon Road
• The area west of the City limits, north of Los Angeles Avenue, and south and
east of Grimes Canyon Road
• The area west of the City limits, south of Los Angeles Avenue, north of the
Arroyo Simi, and east of the Gabbed Canyon Drainage Channel
3
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Honorable City Council
March 2, 2016 Regular Meeting
Page 5
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
1. Approve sponsorship of AB 2189 to direct the Santa Monica Mountains
Conservancy to evaluate possible expansion of the Boundaries of the Rim of the
Valley Trail Corridor to include the City of Moorpark and surrounding areas.
2. Direct that an associated letter of sponsorship be sent to Assemblymember
Jacqui Irwin, and authorize additional letters in support of AB 2189.
3. Receive and file report on that National Park Service's Rim of the Valley Corridor
Special Resources Study.
Attachment 1 — Draft Letter to Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin
Attachment 2 — Draft Legislation (AB 2189)
Attachment 3 — Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study — Final Summary
5
ATTACHMENT I
r CITY OF MOORPARK
, ,,,,,... 799 Moorpark Avenue,Moorpark,California 93021 I Phone(805)517-6200 I Fax(805)532-2205
41 Q
March 2, 2016
The Honorable Jacqui Irwin
California State Assembly
State Capitol Room 6011
Sacramento, CA 95814
RE: Sponsorship of AB 2189 to Direct the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy to
Evaluate Possible Expansion to Include the City of Moorpark and Surrounding Areas
Dear Assemblymember Irwin:
This letter memorializes the City of Moorpark's sponsorship of AB 2189. I want to thank you
for your leadership on this matter and for introducing this legislation.
The Mission Statement of the City of Moorpark is "Striving to preserve_ and improve the
quality of life in Moorpark." Enhancing open space and greenbelt areas is one of the principal
methods by which the suburban nature of Moorpark can be both preserved and improved.
Last year, the Moorpark City Council created a list of its top ten priorities, and enhancing
open space and greenbelt areas was specifically listed as a top priority. This priority was
associated with various specific goals, including the creation of a Natural Open Space land
use designation as part of the City's General Plan Land Use Element update, strengthening
existing greenbelt agreements, potentially adding new formal greenbelts and agreements,
and establishing a trail system along the Arroyo Simi, which runs through the City.
The mission of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy is to strategically buy back,
preserve, protect, restore, and enhance pieces of Southern California to form an interlinking
system of urban, rural, and river parks, open space, trails, and wildlife habitats through direct
action, alliances, and partnerships.
An expansion of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy boundaries to include areas in
and around the City of Moorpark would greatly strengthen the partnership between the two
entities and aid both in accomplishing their common goals and objectives. The Conservancy
and City could then combine both financial and technical resources to preserve open space,
establish greenbelts, and create new recreational and educational opportunities for both
residents and visitors in the Moorpark area.
Because the boundaries of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy are set by the
California Public Resources Code, new legislation is required to effect any boundary
changes. AB 2189 would direct the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy to evaluate the
relevant scientific information and land use planning studies and determine if an expansion is
6
warranted. If so, then the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy will prepare and file a
revised boundary map with the Secretary of State and relevant legislative committees. This
same approach was previously used to evaluate potential expansion in the Santa Clarita
area, and the approach ensures that only scientifically appropriate areas are actually included
in any expansion.
I do want to acknowledge that AB 2189 includes the entirety of the City of Moorpark in the
study area, including the urbanized areas. The City understands that most, if not all, of its
urbanized areas will not be scientifically supported for inclusion within the Santa Monica
Mountains Conservancy. The inclusion of the full city limits is intended to prevent inadvertent
exclusions of areas that may in fact be beneficial to include. For example, it is possible that a
recreational trail along the Arroyo Simi may require pedestrian access, a parking lot, or
signage that might be inside or adjacent to an urbanized portion of the City. To allow for
inclusion of such potential areas of benefit, AB 2189 does not exclude any areas in the
absence of a thorough analysis.
Additionally, I want to share that AB 2189 has been drafted with the assistance and support
of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, through our existing partnership. AB 2189
would further strengthen our partnership and enable both entities to better achieve our
common goals.
Finally, I want to once again thank you for your support and for introducing AB 2189. I look
forward to working with you to ensure that the legislation is signed into law.
Sincerely,
Janice Parvin
Mayor
7
ATTACHMENT 2
AB 2189 would add new Section 33204.8 to the California Public Resources Code as follows:
Section 33204.8.
(a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
(1) The boundary of the Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor should be determined
exclusively upon the best scientific and resource-based information
regarding trail, recreational, and environmental resources in the area.
(2) Landowners, local government entities, members of the public, and other
affected parties should be afforded maximum participation in the process by
which the Rim of the Valley Trail is delineated.
(b) (1) Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 33105.5, if the conservancy
determines, based on relevant scientific information and land use planning
studies, and after holding at least one public hearing in the area that would
be affected by a revision of the boundaries of the Rim of the Valley Trail
Corridor, that a boundary revision within and in the vicinity of the City of
Moorpark, as described in paragraph (2), is necessary, the executive
director shall prepare and file with the Secretary of State, the Assembly
Committee on Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Natural
Resources and Water, a revised map showing the changes in the
boundaries of the Rim of the Valley Trail Corridor.
(2) The conservancy shall determine potential boundary revisions of the Rim of
the Valley Trail Corridor for the area within the city limits of the City of
Moorpark; the area to the north of the city limits and south of Broadway
Road between Happy Camp Canyon Regional Park and Grimes Canyon
Road; the area west of the city limits of the City of Moorpark, north of Los
Angeles Avenue, and south and east of Grimes Canyon Road; and the area
west of the city limits of the City of Moorpark, south of Los Angeles Avenue,
north of the Arroyo Simi, and east of Gabbert Canyon Drainage Channel.
(3) A revised map prepared pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be supported by
relevant scientific information and be in accordance with the purposes and
objectives of Section 33204.3.
(c) Notwithstanding Section 33201, this section does not affect the jurisdiction of the
State Coastal Conservancy.
8
ATTACHMENT 3
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
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Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study
Final Summary
February 2016
9
■
Pcar Fricnd S,
The National Park Service(NPS) is pleased to announce the completion of the Rim of the
Valley Corridor Special Resource Study. The Secretary of the Interior transmitted the final
study to Congress on February 16, 2016. This document summarizes the final study which
includes the selected alternative recommended to Congress by the Secretary of the Interior
and supported by the National Park Service determinations about the eligibility of the study
area as an addition to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA).
Selected Alternative
The alternative recommended to Congress is a combination of alternatives C and D, a
hybrid alternative that was selected based on public and stakeholder input and professional
judgment of the NPS. The selected alternative is the National Park Service Director's most
effective and efficient alternative for the long-term protection and public enjoyment of
nationally significant resources in the Rim of the Valley Corridor.
The selected alternative includes a 170,000-acre boundary adjustment to SMMNRA. The
proposed boundary addition would provide recreational opportunities to a broad range
of urban communities. Within the expanded area are: habitat types that contribute
to the high biodiversity of the Santa Monica Mountains;functioning wildlife corridors;
highly scenic landscapes; historic and archeological sites; geologic and paleontological
resources;thousands of acres of open space and recreation areas; and miles of trails, all of
which provide exceptional public enjoyment opportunities. In areas beyond the proposed
boundary addition, SMMNRA would use existing authorities to partner and provide technical
assistance to land managers and private landowners to maintain and enhance habitat
connections to the Los Padres and Angeles national forests and to assist local communities in
planning for recreational opportunities.
Implementation of the selected alternative would require congressional legislation. In the
absence of such legislation, the study remains a recommendation.
Thank you for your involvement in the Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study.
NPS S•tvdi Trans
•
1- - 4
Above: Coastal sage scrub vegetation Photo:NPS
Cover photo:Oat Mountain area in the Santa Sutana Mountains.Photo.Steve Matsuda.
2 Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016
10
Introduction and Overview
The Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008(P.L.no-229, The study legislation also requires the Secretary of the Interior
May 2008)directed the NPS to evaluate:(i)the suitability and to document the process used to develop the Santa Monica
feasibility of designating all or a portion of the area known Mountains National Recreation Area Fire Management Plan and
as the Rim of the Valley Corridor as a unit of Santa Monica all activity conducted pursuant to the plan designed to protect
Mountains National Recreation Area(SMMNRA);and(2)the lives and property from wildfire.This documentation can be
methods and means for the protection and interpretation of found in the draft study report's Appendix G:Process Used to
this corridor by the National Park Service,other federal,state, Develop the 2005 Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation
or local government entities or private or non-governmental Area Fire Management Plan and Environmental Impact State-
organizations.The Rim of the Valley Corridor is described in trent.
legislation as the area generally including the mountains encir-
cling the San Fernando,La Crescenta,Santa Clarita,Simi,and This document summarizes the determination of the National
Conejo Valleys in southern California. Park Service(NPS)that resources evaluated through this study
meet the criteria for a proposed boundary adjustment to the
The study was prepared following the process established by SMMNRA;the selection of the most effective and efficient
the National Park System New Area Studies Act(P.L.105-391, alternative;and the determination that there are no associated
i6 U.S.C.Secaa-5).This law requires that special resource(new significant impacts on the human environment.
area)studies be prepared in compliance with the National En-
vironmental Policy Act(NEPA)of 1969(42 U.S.C.$4321-4349). Study Area
The determination of whether any part of the study area quali-
fies as an addition or boundary adjustment to an existing unit The study area covers approximately 650,000 acres in
of the national park system is based on criteria for boundary the southern California region.It includes SMMNRA
adjustments as described in NPS Management Policies 2006 (approximately 153,000 acres)and approximately i8o,000
(Section 3.5). acres of lands managed by the U.S.Forest Service(the Angeles
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Rim of the Valley Condor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016 3
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SMMNRA and the Rim of the Valley Corridor include a diverse range of significant natural and cultural resources. Top row: Rare Dudleya sp.,
coastal sage scrub,oak woodland,grassland(Photos:NPS). Middle row: California newt,Eupachydiscus sp.fossil,Burro Flats Painted Cave,
Well No.4 Pico Canyon(Photos:NPs;Pico Canyon photo:Herald-Examiner Collection/Los Angeles Public Library). Bottom row: Gamble House
stained glass,Santa Susana Field Laboratory rocket test stand,let Propulsion Laboratory(JPL)Space Flight Operations Center,Paramount
Ranch filming(Photos:NPS;Pt photo:NASA).
Study Findings nectivity and protection of its broader ecosystem.A
boundary adjustment to include the Rim of the Valley
The study included two analyses,one that focused Corridor areas would provide the widest range of
on potential adjustment of the existing boundary of tools to maintain habitat connectivity and protect sig-
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area nificant resources.The boundary adjustment would
(SMMNRA);and a second that focused on the po- include the authority to inventory,monitor,and
tential creation of a new unit of the national park study resources,and to provide additional protection
system. through targeted land acquisition.
BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENT EVALUATION FINDINGS An adjustment to the boundary of SMMNRA is fea-
The study finds that the addition of lands in the sible using the collaborative partnership-based man-
study area to SMMNRA would enhance protection of agement model exemplified by existing SMMNRA
significant resources and expand opportunities for management,which respects the complex mix of ex-
public enjoyment related to the purpose of SMMNRA. fisting land use,ownership, and regulatory authorities
Areas found eligible for addition to SMMNRA include: within its boundary. Most feasibility factors(land use,
habitat types that contribute to the high biodiversity access and public enjoyment potential,boundary size
of the Santa Monica Mountains;functioning wildlife and configuration, public interest and support,social
corridors; highly scenic landscapes;and archeological and economic impacts, and costs)could be met.
sites.Eligible areas also include geologic and paleon-
tological resources,thousands of acres of open space NEW NATIONAL PARK UNIT CRITERIA ANALYSIS
and recreation areas, miles of trails,hundreds of sites FINDINGS
of historical value,and national historic trails, all of
which provide exceptional public enjoyment opportu- The creation of a new national park unit is less tea-
nities. Expanding SMMNRA to the east into the City sible when compared to the resource management
of Los Angeles would provide new opportunities for and operational efficiencies afforded by adding areas
to SMMNRA.
the NPS to connect with communities In some of the Many of the significant resources within
most ethnically diverse and densely populated areas the study area augment the national significance of
in the United States. SMMNRA and provide the habitat connectivity es-
sential for long-term preservation of the significant
resources within the Santa Monica Mountains,thus
Maintaining SMMNRA:s habitat value and high bio- warranting physical connection to SMMNRA and/or a
diversity depends in part on functional habitat con- seamless, collaborative management approach.
4 Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016
12
National Forest and the recently established San Gabriel After a period of public comment review,alternative revisions,
Mountains National Monument).Similar to SMMNRA, and environmental analysis,the study team released the Rim
numerous agencies and conservation organizations manage of the Valley Corridor Draft Special Resource Study and Envi-
lands within the study area.Portions of at least 27 communities ronmental Assessment(draft study report and EA)for review
are located in the study area,with approximately 5.1 million and comment in April 2015.Approximately three hundred
people living in the study area,and another 13 million participants,including elected officials and stakeholders,par-
living in surrounding communities within the greater Los ticipated in six public meetings(including one virtual meeting
Angeles metropolitan area.Land use is diverse and includes via the Internet)and i,800 comments were submitted online
large natural areas,parks and recreation areas,suburban or by mail.On the basis of those comments and professional
communities,farms and ranches,highly urbanized areas, judgement,the NPS has since made necessary corrections to
freeways,and an array of public infrastructure.The vast the draft study and selected an alternative that it believes is the
majority of land,over 8o%,is primarily undeveloped or vacant. most effective and efficient way to manage the natural,cultural,
and recreation resources of the Rim of the Valley Corridor.
Study Process and Public Involvement Alternatives Analyzed
The study team conducted extensive public outreach through- Four alternatives were analyzed in the draft study report and
out the study process and throughout the region.Four news- EA and distributed for public review in April 2015.
letters were published at various stages of the study process
and distributed to the study mail and email lists.All informa- • Alternative A:Continuation of Current Management
tion sent by mail and email has been available on the study (No Action)served as a baseline for evaluating the ac-
website,www.nps.gov/pwro/rimofthevalley. tion alternatives;
• Alternative B:Cooperative Conservation Partnership
The NPS initiated this special resource study in summer 2010 would foster cooperative planning and funding tools for
with a newsletter describing the study process and oppor- the NPS,partner agencies and landowners in the Rim of
[unities for the public to participate.Seven public meetings the Valley Corridor and key habitat linkages to the Los
were held during September and October 2010. Over 2,000 Padres and Angeles national forests(no new areas would
comments were accepted,and the study team published the be added to SMMNRA);
results of the scoping process in a second newsletter.Numer- • Alternative C:Rim of the Valley Boundary Adjust-
ous meetings with agencies,elected officials,and organizations ment,an approximately 173,000-acre addition to
were held during this period and into eon- SMMNRA that would provide more parks and protect
habitat linkages,with an emphasis on creating more rec-
Throughout 2011 through 2012,the team worked with local rec- National opportunities near urban areas;and
reation and land conservation agencies and resource experts • Alternative D:Regional Rim of the Valley Boundary
to analyze the significance of the study area resources and de- Adjustment and Cooperative Conservation Areas,
velop preliminary alternative management concepts.in the fall an approximately 313,000 acre addition to SMMNRA
of 2012,the study team presented draft alternative management with an emphasis on protecting regional wildlife cor-
concepts for public review in a newsletter distributed to over ridors,would add most areas within Rim of the Valley
3,000 individuals and organizations.The study team held seven Corridor(excluding U.S.Forest Service managed areas)
public meetings at locations throughout the study area,as well to SMMNRA.Cooperative conservation approaches
as numerous meetings with local,state and federal govern- would also be recommended for key habitat linkages be-
ment agencies,organizations,communities,and congressional tween the Rim of the Valley Corridor study area and the
offices.The team received and analyzed approximately 5,200 Los Padres and Angeles national forests.
comments.
•
The study area generally includes the mountains encircling the San Fernando,La Crescenta,Santa Clarita,Simi,and Conejo Valleys. Photo:NPS.
Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016 5
13
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ment.The National Park Service(NPS)and U.S.Forest Service Parks,the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy,and Moun-
would continue to explore partnership opportunities using tains Recreation and Conservation Authority to provide coot-
existing authorities. dinated management in the boundary addition.Through coop-
erative management agreements,the NPS,U.S.Forest Service,
The NPS recognizes that the proposed boundary adjustment U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service,and Bureau of Land Manage-
would include hills and mountain systems beyond the Santa ment could explore new opportunities to leverage resources
Monica Mountains and that Congress may consider revising for protecting habitat linkages and providing visitor services.
the name of the broader national recreational area to better re-
flect the extent of the national park unit if a boundary addition Local Land Use and Regulatory Authorities
is implemented. Lands included in the proposed boundary addition would
continue to be managed through a variety of public and private
MANAGEMENT APPROACH mechanisms by private landowners,federal,state and local
Management by existing agencies,local governments,organi- agencies,universities,and organizations.In SMMNRA where
zations,private landowners,and institutions described under the NPS has proprietary jurisdiction,lands not owned by NPS
the no action alternative would continue under the selected are typically regulated by local and state agencies or other
alternative.Agencies and local governments would maintain federal authorities.In proprietary jurisdiction parks,the state
existing authorities and land management responsibilities. government has not ceded the state's jurisdiction over the park
However,the NPS would become another partner in the man- area to the NPS.However,under the National Park Service
agement of an additional 170,00o acres within the study area. Organic Act 1916,which established the National Park Service,
Cooperative conservation approaches would continue to be a the Secretary of the Interior has broad authority to establish
component of the management approach for the proposed ad- regulations for certain activities,regardless of federal land
Rion to SMMNRA. ownership,within authorized national park unit boundaries.
These regulations are found in Tide 36 Code of Federal Regu-
NPS Roles lations(CFR)Chapter r.
Through legislation,Congress could authorize the NPS to
manage the new additions as part of SMMNRA and explore Lands within the proposed boundary addition,unless pur-
partnerships with existing land management agencies,private chased by or donated to the NPS,would generally be subject
landowners,and organizations.The NPS could then expend to existing general plans and local zoning,as well as state and
funds on resource protection,visitor services,land acquisition, local laws and policies.In some cases,where activities must
and the planning and development of visitor facilities such as cross federally-owned lands such as for access roads,NPS
trails,waysides,etc.within the expanded NPS boundary.NPS regulations may apply.The NPS is authorized to provide corn-
land acquisition would be targeted,with an emphasis on pro- ments on proposed projects within SMMNRA and the broader
tecting significant resources,maintaining and enhancing habi- Santa Monica Mountains Zone(SMMZ).SMMNRA's 1978
tat connectivity,and providing recreational opportunities.The authorizing legislation established the SMMZ which includes
NPS would only consider purchase of land from willing sellers. watersheds and canyon slopes associated with,but not formal-
ly included in SMMNRA,as well as the easternmost portion of
The NPS would also expand its capacity to provide technical the Santa Monica Mountains encompassing Griffith Park.Lo-
• assistance to agencies and organizations in the Rim of the Val- cal and state agencies are responsible for land use regulations
ley Corridor area with the intent of increasing outreach efforts within this zone,but the NPS retains,by law,reviewing author-
to surrounding local communities.Beyond SMMNRA,NPS ity on projects involving federal funds,permits,or licenses
technical assistance could be provided for:natural resource that may affect the national recreation area.This authority was
protection and restoration,including protection of regional provided by Congress when the national recreation area was
wildlife corridors and adjacent tributaries;trail and park plan- established to reduce downstream impacts on national recre-
ning;and to bring agencies,organizations,and landowners ation area resources when possible.
together to achieve common goals.
NPS regulations that could pertain to activities on lands con-
Other Federal,State and Local Land Management sidered for addition to SMMNRA include regulation of min-
Agencies and Organizations eral extraction and the exercise of nonfederal oil and gas rights
The NPS would work with local,state.and federal agencies per 36 CFR Chapter 1,Parts 9A and 9B.These regulations re-
to administer a cooperative land protection program and specs existing rights and are not intended to result in the taking
management framework.New planning efforts would explore of a property interest,but rather to impose reasonable regula-
opportunities for agencies to collaborate and set shared goals tions on activities which involve and affect federally-owned
for resource protection,connecting parklands and trails,resto- lands.Valid existing mineral rights would be retained.The
ration objectives,and providing coordinated interpretive and regulations are designed to insure that activities undertaken
educational opportunities that highlight nationally significant pursuant to these rights are conducted in a manner consistent
resources in newly added areas.The NPS would expand the with the purposes for which the national park system and each
cooperative management agreement with California State unit thereof were created.Solid waste disposal sites,if located
8 Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016
16
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counties,U.S.Forest Service,NPS,California Department of Non-Governmental Organizations and Private Land
Forestry and Fire Protection),including assistance through co- Stewardship
operative fire agreements.NPS fire management practices such The NPS would work cooperatively with non-governmental
as brush clearing would only apply to land acquired by the organizations and private landowners(upon request)to under-
NPS.See Appendix G,Process Used to Develop the 2005 Santa take cooperative conservation efforts that do nor require feder-
Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Fire Management al land acquisition.These efforts could apply not only to areas
Plan and Environmental Impact Statement in the draft study in the proposed boundary adjustment,but also to cooperative
report for additional information on the SMMNRA fire man- conservation areas beyond the boundary that are important for
agement plan. wildlife movement and trail connections.
Water Supply, Flood Protection,and Other Non-Governmental Land Conservation.Non-governmental
Infrastructure Facilities and Functions organizations would be part of the cooperative conservation
The greater Los Angeles metropolitan region has highly com- planning effort and could work collaboratively with agencies
plex systems of public infrastructure related to telecommu- and private landowners to help protect significant resources
nications and energy,the transport and storage of local and and critical wildlife corridors.Land trusts often work with
regional water supplies(including recycled water),and infra- private landowners to purchase conservation easements which
structure related to flood protection.In addition,numerous maintain private ownership and use while providing compen-
facilities are necessary to treat wastewater and manage solid sation for land conservation.
waste.The selected alternative is not intended to affect existing
public rights-of-way,water supply operations,water treatment Private Land Stewardship.Private land stewardship would
operations,electrical or telecommunications infrastructure, continue to play a key role in the conservation of resources.
or flood protection efforts.Management of water supply and Privately owned open space,whether undeveloped or in agri-
treatment plants would continue under current authorities. cultural use,often provides habitat for wildlife and contributes
to scenery.Some private lands have trail easements or rights-
The selected alternative would not affect existing or future wa- of-way for equestrian or other recreational activities.Addi-
ter rights.The areas proposed for inclusion in the SMMNRA tional options would include developer dedications,targeting
boundary are not intended to propose any new or future ben- federal and state incentive programs for private land conserva-
eficial uses or requirements for water supply,water quality,or tion,and technical assistance from agencies and organizations
air quality regulations.The NPS would be required to regulate for land conservation and habitat restoration.Local ordinances
solid waste facilities per 36 CFR,Chapter 1,Part 6 in areas would continue to determine appropriate uses for private
proposed for addition to SMMNRA.Such facilities have been lands.Private land stewardship actions would be voluntary on
excluded from the proposed boundary addition.Additionally, the part of the landowner.
through any resulting legislation,Congress could make an ex-
ception to this regulation. RIM OF THE VALLEY TRAIL
Various agencies and organizations would continue to develop
proposed segments of the Rim of the Valley Trail.For example,
• the NPS and other state and local agencies are currently pre-
t
ri
In coordination with existing Los Angeles River initiatives,emphasis would be placed on creating more opportunities for recreation,interpre-
tation and education along the Los Angeles River and its tributaries. Photo:NPS.
10 Rim of the Valley Corndcr Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016
18
paring a SM INRA Interagency Trail Management Plan.TheApirr " '1
trail management plan will include proposals for existing and . " •
proposed alignments for the Rim of the Valley Trail system ti r'
within the current SMMNRA boundary-. ill
Overall planning and implementation of the Rim of the Valley — I.
Trail would be supported by the NPS through technical assis- ti
tance and partnership development.Planning would include t fir
careful coordination with existing agencies,organizations,and
J �R
private landowners to ensure that trail alignments do not con- �,_ _
13ict with existing land uses and ownership.The NPS could de- 4 ,.
velop and manage new segments of the Rim of the Valley Trail 4,.that cross NPS managed land within the expanded boundary S. 1
of SMMNRA. ; )
.�.�
Once established,the Rim of the Valley Trail would be eligible ,
,410
for designation as a national recreation trail,through the exist- •'' .. /, � .•� --- --1--
ing application process,which is voluntary and could be a co- _ +
operative management action initiated by trail managers. \,,. r- -.i
RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AND ACCESS , - -
Inclusion in the SMMNRA boundary would give NPS the 1111110— ,
authority to expend funds on creating new trails and other ' .�
fariliries where appropriate.As requested,and contingent on # `ti—=
funding,the NPS would provide technical assistance to stir- ..rounding communities to enhance access to SMMNRA and —y
other open space areas through trail connections and public ='p •
transportation options and to increase the overall diversity of -. _a ,•!
public parklands.
The lands within the proposed boundary adjustment would provide
new opportunities for educational and Interpretive programs and
In coordination with existing Los Angeles River initiatives, more engagement of urban communities.Photo:%PS.
emphasis would be placed on creating more opportunities for
recreation,interpretation,and education along the Los Angeles' those communities that do not have adequate access to parks
River and its tributaries,including the Arroyo Seco and Tu- and open space.The NPS would conduct outreach to local
junga Wash.The NPS could develop partnerships with existing communities,organizations,and schools to promote opportu-
nature centers and recreational facilities to facilitate access and nities to visit parks for healthy recreational activities.
serve as local gateways to the broader Rim of the Valley Cor-
ridor area. The NPS could also coordinate and collaborate with the U.S.
Forest Service's Southern California Consortium to conduct
Providing improved access and alternative transportation op- outreach on recreational and learning opportunities with local
portunities to existing recreational opportunities and parks schools and youth.
would be explored,particularly for communities that lack
adequate access to parks and open space.This could occur EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION
through expansion of existing NPS or park partner bus leasing The lands within the proposed boundary adjustment would
contracts,or through coordination and cooperation with exist- provide new opportunities for educational and interpretive
ing transit agencies.For example,the NPS and partner agen- programs and more engagement of urban communities.The
des could explore creating recreational linkages to the Orange NPS would seek opportunities to coordinate interpretive and
Line,a major public transportation corridor which connects educational messaging and programs in partnership with exist-
downtown Los Angeles with San Fernando Valley communi- ing agencies and organizations. Interpretive themes related to
ties. nationally significant resources throughout the Rim of the Val-
ley Corridor area would be emphasized.With the Los Angeles
The NPS would emphasize and promote the public health ben- River and its tributaries providing close-to-home physical and
efits of outdoor recreation.Children in communities that do recreational connections,watershed interpretive themes could
not have adequate access to outdoor recreation tend to have also be emphasized.Adding more cultural resources in down-
higher rates of childhood diseases related to obesity,such as town Los Angeles and other urban communities to the bound-
diabetes.Expanding SMMNRA into urban areas to the north ary would also provide opportunities to interpret the diverse
and east would provide new close-to-home opportunities for cultural heritage of the region.
Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016 11
19
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•
• tit
•
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The boundary adjustment would expand and enhance protection of significant resources already within SMMNRA.Studies have documented
the Importance of the wildlife corridor within the Simi Hills,the Conejo Mountain area,and the Santa Susana Mountains.Photos:NPS.
Topics currently interpreted at SMMNRA such as film history The boundary adjustment would include cultural resources re-
and modern film production,Native American history and fated to space exploration and the Cold War that are located in
prehistory,and the significance of Mediterranean ecosystems the Arroyo Seco corridor and Simi Hills.Other historical sites
would be expanded by the inclusion of new sites and resources that reflect the settlement and economic development of the
that represent these themes.For example,the NPS currently region include Pico Well No.4 National Historic Landmark,
interprets film history and film production at Paramount portions of the Butterfield Overland Trail,the Arroyo Seco
Ranch within SMMNRA.With the proposed boundary expan- Parkway,Route 66,and El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical
sion,Griffith Park and Corriganville Ranch,two important Monument.Portions of the Simi Hills and the Santa Susana
sites in film history would be added to SMMNRA and would Mountains that would be included in the boundary addition
augment interpretation of this theme. also contain numerous archeological sites,including rock art
examples not found in SMMNRA.
Beyond the boundary addition,the NPS could also use exist-
ing authorities to conduct outreach and educational programs Within the boundary adjustment area,the NPS would partner
in surrounding communities.NPS could also provide technical with stakeholders to develop a collaborative land protection
assistance to help partner agencies develop educational pro- program that includes both cooperative conservation planning
gramming if it relates to resources and educational program- tools and strategic land acquisition.The current inventory and
ming conducted in the expanded boundary. monitoring program in SMMNRA would be expanded to the
new areas and would inform decision-making for resource
RESOURCE PROTECTION management.To further engage urban populations,the NPS
The boundary adjustment would add numerous natural could create a network of partners to develop natural and cul-
and cultural resources to SMMNRA that would expand and rural resource management programs that would engage the
enhance protection of significant resources already within public through expanded citizen science,volunteer programs,
SMMNRA,including portions of the Santa Monica-Sierra education,and interpretation.
Madre wildlife corridor within the Simi Hills,the Conejo
Mountain area,and the Santa Susana Mountains.Numerous The NPS would use its full range of tools and authorities for
studies have documented the importance of this corridor for resource protection including land acquisition inventorying
wildlife movement.Also included are native grasslands,more and monitoring,and a variety of resource protection projects.
oak woodland types,and habitat for a range of additional rare The current inventory and monitoring program of SMMNRA
and sensitive species.The San Gabriel Mountains foothills would be expanded to include the new areas and would in-
included
nincluded in the selected alternative contain alluvial fan sage form decision-making for resource management.
scrub,a distinct and sensitive natural community that has
adapted to the unique fluvial processes of the Los Angeles ba- Both within the expanded national recreation area and in
sin.The boundary adjustment would also include the Verdugo areas beyond,the NPS could provide technical assistance in
Mountains,more connections to Griffith Park,and remnant scientific study,restoration opportunities,and documentation
riparian areas along the Los Angeles River which are important of cultural and natural resources.SMMNRA would work with
ecological stepping stones between the Santa Monica and San partners to develop a collaborative geographic database to sup-
Gabriel mountains. port decision-making.More universities and other partners
would be engaged to assist in building scientific knowledge to
support decision-making.
12 Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016
20
Priorities for Land Conservation Fish and Wildlife Service)offer numerous programs targeted to
In recent years,various agencies and park districts have ac- assist private landowner conservation.Several examples of the
quired large areas of open space in areas such as the Verdugo available opportunities are discussed below.
Mountains,Simi Hills,and eastern Santa Susana Mountains.
The NPS would work with these partners to identify common The U.S.Department of Agriculture's Wildlife Habitat Incen-
priorities for land conservation that would emphasize protect- tive Program provides both technical and financial assistance
ing and enhancing habitat connectivity between existing parks to landowners who want to develop and improve wildlife
and open spaces.Other agencies and organizations within the habitat on their agricultural land,nonindustrial private forest
added areas would likely continue to acquire lands for conser- land,or tribal land.The Conservation Reserve Program(Farm
vation and open space as permitted under existing authorities. Services Agency)funds farmland projects that provide vegeta-
The NPS would focus its own land acquisition on protection tive cover,riparian buffers,and other resource conservation
of core habitat areas in SMMNRA and in protecting nationally activities.Farmers who enter the program receive an annual
significant resources and wildlife corridors within the newly rental payment of up to SSo,000 per person per year for the
added areas.Having such areas within the SMMNRA bound- land taken out of agricultural production.Fifty percent cost
ary means that the NPS would have the authority to purchase sharing is also available for implementing conservation plans.
lands for protection or expend funds on other means of land Conservation Reserve Program contracts last 10-15 years.As of
conservation.The NPS would also continue to collaborate 2012,approximately 10,500 acres of farmland were converted
regionally to share research and participate in strategies to to habitat under the Conservation Reserve Program in Cali-
protect important wildlife corridors beyond the SMMNRA fornia.The U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service has a Partners for
boundary.Emphasis would be placed on private land steward- Fish and Wildlife Program that provides technical and financial
ship and providing technical assistance to public and private assistance to private landowners who are willing to partner
landowners,as requested,to conserve these resources. on habitat improvements for migratory birds,as well as other
threatened and endangered wildlife.
Restoration Opportunities.In more developed areas,the NPS
could contribute to restoration efforts that would enhance bio- Existing state programs to conserve farmlands such as those
diversity and create more resilient biological systems.The NPS authorized by California's Williamson Act can also support
could actively support current restoration efforts on the Los conservation objectives.The Williamson Act established an
Angeles River,Arroyo Seco,and Tujunga Wash.Opportunities incentive-based conservation program to protect agricultural
could also be explored,in cooperation with other agencies and resources,preserve open space,and promote efficient urban
landowners,for the Arroyo Simi and Calleguas Creek.These growth patterns.The Williamson Act enrollment is voluntary,
efforts would provide excellent opportunities to restore ripar- and an agency cannot require a landowner to enter into a Ion-
ian areas and enhance regional habitat connectivity. tract as a condition of approval for any permit or project.
Cooperative Conservation.The NPS would also explore col- Opportunities for technical assistance to conserve significant
laborative restoration efforts to conserve and enhance habitat resources and wildlife habitat could also be facilitated through
linkages between the Santa Monica Mountains and other large the three resource conservation districts(Antelope Valley,
conservation areas within the San Gabriel Mountains and the Santa Monica Mountains,and Ventura)that service the area.
Sierra Pelona.The Consolidated Natural Resources Act of
zoo8 allows for the NPS to enter into cooperative and inter- Cultural Resources Documentation and Protection
agency agreements to protect natural resources.The NPS may The NPS would work collaboratively to document cultural
also contribute financially to projects that protect wetlands, resources within the newly added areas.Although compre-
watersheds,and coastal resources if they also benefit park hensive inventories have been completed of cultural resources
resources.For example,such funding could contribute to res- in SMMNRA,for California State Parks,and recently for the
toration projects on tributaries to the Los Angeles River that City of Los Angeles,other portions of the proposed boundary
extend beyond the proposed boundary addition because these addition are not as well documented.Additional inventories,
tributaries provide excellent opportunities for wildlife move- documentation and mapping of cultural sites could be under-
ment. taken.Information about sensitive sites need not be released
to the public;details and locations may need to be withheld to
Existing federal and state programs that provide financial protect the resources.The NPS could facilitate the develop-
incentives for private landowners to restore habitat could be ment of a network of cultural resources stakeholders including
leveraged to achieve restoration objectives.Federal and state historical societies,institutions,and other organizations.This
agencies have established numerous incentive programs to as- network could explore and make recommendations related to
sist private landowners in their conservation efforts.The NPS cultural resources protection and interpretation.
could help identify additional opportunities to leverage fund-
ing that could be used by private landowners to conserve or Significant sites could be evaluated for listing in the National
restore lands.Within the federal government,the U.S.Depart- Register of Historic Places or designation as national historic
ment of Agriculture and U.S.Department of the Interior(U.S. landmarks.Such designations would help to document the his-
Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • final Summary • February 2016 13
21
torical,cultural and archeological significance of the area and • Maintenance and facilities management staff(-2-4
could enhance funding and technical assistance opportunities. FTE)-would be required to care for any additional
lands that the NPS would acquire and for any new fa-
Many sites within the study area are important to Native Amer- cilities that the NPS would construct(trails,roads,etc.).
ican tribes and other organizations.Tribes,organizations and • Planning staff(-rz FTE)-to provide expertise in land
others could continue to work with public and private land- conservation tools and strategies,park and trail devel-
owners and managers to protect sacred sites and archeological opment,and community partnerships.
resources,and to obtain access or ownership of important
sites for ceremonial,interpretive,and educational purposes. SMMNRA would also work to expand its network of vol-
unteers to assist in park operations and resource manage-
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE ment activities in the newly added park areas.Volunteers for
Existing land managers would continue to operate and man- SMMNRA contribute many thousands of hours to all aspects
age their land and facilities.NPS would be responsible for of park management.SMMNRA and agency partners would
operations and maintenance of lands that it acquires.Through also continue to rely on private fundraising through"friends"
cooperative management agreements,the NPS would have the and partner groups such as the Santa Monica Mountains Fund.
opportunity to share staff,facilities and funding with partner FUNDING AND COSTS
agencies,streamlining operational efficiencies.
Operational Costs
Existing staff at SMMNRA would contribute to operation of Given NPS budget constraints,it is likely that the newly added
the expanded park area.However,additional staffing and ex- areas would initially be supported by existing S14IMNRA op-
pertise needed for the expanded area would include: erational funding.Initially,new staffing needs would primarily
be for park planning,outreach,and coordination with other
• Natural resource management staff(-2-4 FTE)-to agencies and organisations.Increased staffing for the ex-
conduct inventory and monitoring of resources and to panded SMMNRA would happen incrementally over time as
provide technical expertise on conservation of wildlife implementation planning specifies objectives and as the NPS
corridors and habitat restoration in urban areas. acquires land.Following completion of a management plan
Staff with expertise in cultural resources manage- that would identify more specific goals for land protection,re-
•
ment(-1-2 FTE)-to document and manage the ex- source management,facilities,education,and outreach,more
panded scope of cultural resources within the newly detailed operational costs and staffing needs would be identi-
added area, fled.The annual operating cost for SMMNRA was 58.6 million
Outreach coordinator and interpretive rangers(-3-5 in fiscal year 2012.These operational costs primarily support
• FTE) to create and develop visitor programs. staffing.SMMNRA would also leverage NPS sources of fund-
-• Law enforcement rangers(-2-4 FTE)-to protect re- ing beyond the annual operating costs for planning efforts,
sources and ensure a safe visitor experience. specific resource management objectives,and for the construc-
tion of visitor facilities.The annual NPS operating budget for
the expanded SMMNRA could range from S9.5-Sto.5 million,
an increase of 5900,000-51.9 million above SMMNRA's 2012
•- operating budget.The level of staffing needs would reflect the
• emphasis of future management(e.g.the amount and type of
1 land acquired by NPS,ability to accomplish objectives through
partnerships).
•
1111114 •
•
Existing staff at SMMNRA would contribute to operation of the expanded park. However,additional staffing and expertise would be needed.
SMMNRA would also work to expand its network of volunteers to assist in the newly added park areas.Photo:NPS.
14 Rim of the Valley Conder Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February'2016
22
Land Acquisition Costs Resource Study to identify and analyze the potential environ-
Land acquisition would be limited and subject to available mental and socioeconomic consequences of each of the alter-
funding.From toot-eon,SMMNRA received approximately natives considered in the study.
Si4 million for land acquisition,acquiring nearly 1,800 acres of
land.Additional funding would be required to continue imple- The NPS evaluated the environmental consequences of each
mentation of current land acquisition priorities in the Santa alternative on the following topics:land use,paleontological
Monica Mountains and to pursue targeted land acquisition in resources,water resources,biological resources,cultural re-
the newly added areas.The NPS and partner agencies could sources,recreation use and visitor experience.
also explore new opportunities to leverage funding for land
acquisition. A Finding of No Significant Impact(FONSI)was completed for
this document.A separate document,Summary of Public Com-
Planning and Implementation Projects meats and Response,addresses comments on the draft study
Planning and implementation projects are not reflected in the report and EA,and the document titled Errata includes a list
projected operational budget.If the boundary adjustment were of corrected information that appends the draft study report
authorized by Congress,SMMNRA would be eligible to re- and EA.These three documents can be found at http:ilwww.
ceive funding for planning and projects through NPS funding nps.gov/pwro/rimofthevailey.
sources.For example,the NPS could provide initial planning
funds for a management plan which would define management Next Steps
priorities,more specific actions,and funding needs for the new
areas.The management plan would be completed in collabora- Transmittal of the final study report to Congress officially corn-
non with the partnership agencies.A management plan for a pletes the special resource study process.Implementation of
partnership park the size and scale of which is proposed in the the selected alternative would require Congressional legisla-
selected alternative would likely take 4 to 5 years to complete tion.If Congress does not pass legislation to implement the
and could cost between S5oo,000 and$700,000.Additional study's recommendations,then the study would simply remain
NPS funding may also be available for specific projects such as as a recommendation.If Congress passes legislation addressing
trail development and interpretive materials.A management the Rim of the Valley Corridor area,the legislation would be
plan would identify more specific implementation needs. the guiding policy for the park unit,and would supersede the
recommendations of the study report.
Environmental Assessment If Congress expands the boundary of Santa Monica Moun-
Before taking an action,the National Environmental Policy tains National Recreation Area,the NPS would begin imple-
Act(NEPA)requires federal agencies to identify a range of al- menting the Congressional legislation.One of the first steps
ternatives for that action and to analyze the potential environ- that the NPS would take would be to complete a management
mental impacts of that action,including any potential adverse plan which would define management priorities,more specific
environmental effects that cannot be avoided if the proposed actions,and funding needs for the newly added areas.This
action is implemented.The NPS prepared an environmental management plan would be completed with public involve-
assessment(EA)for the Rim of the Valley Corridor Special ment and appropriate environmental compliance.
National Park Service9
How to Obtain Final Study Report Documents
U.S.Departrnentofshelnterior and Additional Information
This document presents a summary of the final Rim of the Valley Corridor
Special Resource Study.The NPS published the Rim of the Valley Corridor Draft
Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study and Environmental Assessment in April 201S.The final
Special Resource study study documents,available now,include the previously published draft report,
a list of errata,and a Finding of No Significant impact,containing the selected
Mailing Address alternative.These documents are posted on the project website at:
National Park Service
Rim of the Valley Corridor SRS http://www,nps.gov/pwro/rimofthevalley
Park Planning&Environmental Compliance
333 Bush Street,Suite S0a A public comment summary and NPS responses to comments received on the
San Francisco,CA 94104 draft report is also available on the website.
E-mail Limited printed copies of the draft study report and environmental assessment
pwr_rimofthevalley@nps.gov are available.If you have not received a copy of the draft report and would like
one,please contact us by mail or e-mail and provide your name and mailing
Website address.
http://www.nps.gov/pwro/riTofthevalley
Rim of the Valley Corridor Special Resource Study • Final Summary • February 2016 15
23
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