HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-06-05; Beach Preservation Commission; 03; Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project UpdateMeeting Date: June 5, 2025
To: Beach Preservation Commission
From: Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Staff Contact: Nick Stupin, Parks Planning Manager
nick.stupin@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2527
Subject: Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project Update
Recommended Action
Receive an informational report and presentation from the San Diego Association of
Governments (SANDAG) staff on the status of the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project.
Executive Summary/Explanation & Analysis
SANDAG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the San Diego region and plays a key
role in the regional coordination of a variety of projects. The San Diego region has 19
jurisdictions, 10 of which are located in the coastal zone and collectively manage approximately
70 miles of coastline that can be accessed via transit, highways, roadways, and bicycle and
pedestrian facilities.
The Buena Vista Lagoon is currently a large freshwater feature that serves as a landmark and de
facto boundary between the Cities of Oceanside and Carlsbad. It contains coastal wetland
habitat used by a number of wildlife species. A majority of the lagoon is owned by the California
Department of Fish & Wildlife and designated as a State Ecological Reserve. The lagoon’s four
basins, divided by Carlsbad Boulevard, the railroad tracks, and the I-5 Freeway, are vegetated
around the perimeter with open water in the middle.
Pre-1940s, the lagoon was in a dynamic equilibrium between a tidally influenced saltwater
system during dry conditions and a river-influenced freshwater system during wet weather
conditions. The combination of these inputs resulted in the creation of extensive salt flat
habitats covering approximately 75 percent of the lagoon. Historical records indicate that an
additional 23 percent of lagoon area was composed of salt marsh habitat.
In 1940, the lagoon was converted to a predominantly freshwater system as a result of the
installation of a weir across the lagoon outlet that precluded saltwater from entering. The
existing weir, built in 1972, spans approximately 50 feet, and maintains a minimum water level
within the lagoon. Sedimentation from the watershed upstream of the lagoon has accumulated
within the lagoon basins, leading to decreasing water depths and increasing nutrient levels.
Additional influences from adjacent urbanization have affected water quality, including runoff
June 5, 2025 Item #3 1 of 42
from adjacent roadways and development, as well as releases of sewage into the lagoon.
Encroachment of nonnative vegetation into the open water basins of the lagoon has also been
occurring, leading to water quality and vector issues as circulation decreased.
In 1982, the cities of Carlsbad, Oceanside, and Vista created the Buena Vista Lagoon Joint
Powers Committee. The initial focus of the Committee was grading and sedimentation control.
In 2001, the Committee updated its focus to the development of a long-term management plan
with the lagoon’s major property owner, the California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW).
In 2004, a feasibility study was conducted for a Buena Vista Lagoon enhancement project. This
study projected that between 2030 and 2050, the lagoon was expected to become a vegetated
freshwater marsh or riparian woodland-meadow. This transition could reduce coastal habitat
biodiversity or eliminate saltwater marsh coastal wetland functions and values, and result in
decreased water circulation, leading to concerns about vectors and water quality impairments.
In July 2012, SANDAG became involved in enhancement efforts for the lagoon as a component
of the North Coast Corridor Public Work Plan/Transportation and Resource Enhancement
Program (PWP/TREP). That document was prepared to address comprehensive, system-wide
transportation and transit improvements proposed by the California Department of
Transportation and SANDAG within the north San Diego coastal corridor. The PWP/TREP
identifies opportunities to improve ecological health and hydrological connectivity to enhance
coastal resources and habitats within the corridor, including the lagoon enhancement project.
Since 2012, SANDAG has compiled studies and initiated the design of the lagoon enhancement
project. On Nov. 16, 2018, the final environmental impact report on the lagoon enhancement
project was presented to the SANDAG Board of Directors for certification. At the request of the
City of Carlsbad, a motion was approved to delay any action on the enhancement project to
allow key residents and applicable agencies to reach a consensus on the designs alternative to
be pursued. On June 6, 2019, SANDAG staff met with key property owners who presented a
proposal for a modified saltwater alternative with additional legal terms and conditions.
On Sept. 10, 2019, the City Council received a presentation from SANDAG staff on the status of
the enhancement project (Exhibit 1). At the time, SANDAG staff were analyzing the engineering,
environmental and legal aspects of the proposal for the modified saltwater alternative.
On May 12, 2020, the City Council adopted a resolution approving a letter of support to the
SANDAG Board of Directors for selection of the modified saltwater alternative and authorizing
the City Manager to negotiate a project agreement with SANDAG, the City of Oceanside, the
CDFW and certain property owners (Exhibit 2). On May 22, 2020, the SANDAG Board of
Directors adopted a resolution accepting the modified saltwater alternative for the project.
SANDAG continues to be responsible for the overall project management and updates the
Buena Vista Lagoon Joint Powers Committee, staff from the Cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside,
and representative residents on a quarterly basis. The most recent meetings of the Committee
were held on Feb. 27 and May 22, 2025 (Exhibit 3).
June 5, 2025 Item #3 2 of 42
On May 22, 2025, Beach Preservation Commission Chair Stark submitted a memorandum for
distribution to fellow Commissioners regarding the Rue Des Chateaux (North) Beach, adjacent
to the outlet of the Buena Vista Lagoon (Exhibit 4).
Littoral Zone Nourishment Site Characteristics and Background
There are two locations near the lagoon, Oceanside and North Carlsbad, where materials
dredged from the lagoon during enhancement activities may be placed, depending upon grain
size, which influences suitability for beach or nearshore placement.
The Oceanside placement site includes both onshore and nearshore areas. The onshore
Oceanside site is approximately 0.8 mile long and located north of the lagoon outlet. This
onshore site consists of typically sandy beach between Wisconsin Street and Morse Street
where riprap (large boulders) has been placed to protect beachfront residential structures. The
placement site is not the currently permitted site specified under the existing Oceanside Beach
Fill Program. The nearshore Oceanside site is under water with a bottom characterized by sand.
The North Carlsbad placement site is an onshore site extending approximately 3,000 feet from
immediately south of the lagoon outlet to Oak Street. The North Carlsbad placement site is a
typically sandy beach backed by residences. The character of each placement site varies by
season, tide, storm damage, and periodic beach nourishment activities.
Both the Oceanside and North Carlsbad locations had sand placed directly on their shorelines as
part of the 2001 and 2012 Regional Beach Sand Projects.
Next Steps
Staff will remain in communication with SANDAG staff regarding developments on the Buena
Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project. Staff will also include an agenda item for the Commission
on the project at a significant milestone, and invite SANDAG staff to the meeting to provide an
updated presentation.
Exhibits
1. Sept. 10, 2019 City Council staff report
2. May 12, 2020 City Council staff report
3. Feb. 27 and May 22, 2025 Buena Vista Lagoon Joint Powers Committee meeting documents
4. May 22, 2025 Beach Preservation Commission Chair Stark memorandum
June 5, 2025 Item #3 3 of 42
~ CITY COUNCIL
~ Staff Report
Meeting Date:
To:
From:
Staff Contact:
Sept. 10, 2019
Mayor and City Counci l
Scott Chadwick, City Manager
Hossein Ajideh, Engineering Manager
hossein.ajideh@carlsbadca.gov or 760-602-2756
CA Review lb--(...-
Subject: Presentation from the San Diego Association of Governments regarding
the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project.
Recommended Action
Receive a presentation from the San Diego Association of Governments (SAN DAG) regarding
the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project (Project).
Executive Summary
Over many decades, the health of the Buena Vista lagoon has declined due to natural and
anthropogenic impacts. Numerous federal, state and local agencies and organizations have
cooperated in the past ir, an effort to gain consensus on a solution. In 2012, SAN DAG agreed to
serve as the new lead agency for the environmental review process for the Project. The Project
includes completing engineering studies and preparing an environmental impact report (EIR) to
analyze possible approaches to the enhancement of the lagoon. A minimum of four alternatives
were proposed for evaluation: three enhancement alternatives -freshwater, saltwater and a
saltwater/freshwater hybrid regime; and a no project alternative. Through the EIR process,
SAN DAG engaged federal and state agencies, the cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside, and the
public in considering alternatives and potential solutions. SAN DAG will provide the city council
with an overview of the project and an update on the EIR process and selection of a preferred
alternative.
Discussion
Buena Vista Lagoon spans the boundary between the cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside. The
lagoon encompasses approximately 220 acres, extending to the coastline from east of
Interstate 5. The lagoon is ·downstream of the Buena Vista Creek, which drains approximately
20 square miles of the Buena Vista watershed into the Pacific Ocean. It is a freshwater lagoon,
protected from almost all tidal influence by a beach berm and a physical barrier, known as a
weir, located at the mouth of the lagoon.
Several individuals and agencies own portions of the lagoon, including the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), whose lands are designated as a state ecological
reserve. The lagoon is surrounded by urban development and traversed by multiple
transportation corridors, all of which have contributed to a continual degradation of the lagoon
over time. The Project would enhance the lagoon to improve both its ecological and
recreational values through implementation of one of a range of alternatives.
Sept. 11, 2019 Item #11 Page 1 of 4
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #3 4 of 42
In 2012, SAN DAG agreed to serve as the lead agency under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) for the environmental review of the Project. In 2017, SANDAG prepared an EIR that
equally analyzed saltwater, freshwater, saltwater/freshwater hybrid and no project
alternatives; along with preliminary design for each alternative. The final EIR finds that each of
the alternatives are superior to a no project alternative. While almost all stakeholders agree
that something needs to be done, the various adjacent property owners, stakeholders and
regulatory agencies have different views on the long-term vision for the lagoon. Some would
like to see an open freshwater system, others look at the lagoon as a great opportunity to
increase tidal flow and promote coastal saltmarsh habitat. The Project location and existing
habitat distribution map is presented in Exhibit 1.
SAN DAG staff has recommended the saltwater alternative as the preferred alternative because
it wo~ld provide the largest benefits to improve water quality, reduce mosquito habitat and
vector-borne mosquito diseases, reduce flooding, and support a healthier environment for
native species. The federal and state agencies have indicated that the saltwater alternative is
the only alternative that could serve as mitigation for future transportation projects. SAN DAG
has also received significant comments from certain stakeholders requesting that the
freshwater alternative be designated as the preferred alternative instead.
During the Nov. 16, 2018 SAN DAG Board of Directors meeting and at the request of the
Carlsbad City Council, a motion was approved to delay any action on the project for six months
to allow residents to reach a consensus on the enhancement efforts. On June 6, 2019, SAN DAG
staff met with the key property owners who presented a proposal for a modified saltwater
alternative with additional legal terms and conditions. SAN DAG staff is in the process of
analyzing the engineering, environmental and legal aspects of this proposal. SAN DAG staff
anticipates returning to the SAN DAG Board of Directors with the analysis and a
recommendation for their consideration in late fall/early winter 2019.
SAN DAG has committed $800,000 in TransNet funds for the Buena Vista Lagoon environmental
review process. Additionally, the cities of Oceanside and Carlsbad each contributed $100,000
toward the study. A budget amendment would be required to continue with project
implementation to advance engineering design and obtain regulatory permits. Funding for
implementation of a potential enhancement project will be explored after completion of the
EIR process and selection of a preferred alternative by SAN DAG. According to SANDAG,
advancement of the saltwater alternative to 65% design and obtaining all state and federal
regulatory permits is estimated to cost approximately $4 million and would take approximately
two to three years to complete, after funding is secured.
Fiscal Analysis
This item has no fiscal impact since it is an informational presentation.
Next Steps
SAN DAG Board of Directors will receive a presentation from their staff with an an
engineering, environmental and legal aspects of a modified saltwater alternative and staff
recommendation in late fall/early winter 2019.
Sept. 11, 2019 Item #11 Page 2 of 4
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #3 5 of 42
SAN DAG is expected to move forward with design of a preferred alternative for the Project, if
and when the SAN DAG Board of Directors certifies the final EIR and approves the alternative as
the project. This would include seeking necessary federal and state regulatory permits and
funding for project delivery.
Environmental Evaluation (CEQA)
Receiving a presentation does not qualify as a "project" per State CEQA Guidelines Section
15378, as it does not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the
environment.
Public Notification
This item was noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code
Section 54950 et seq.), published and distributed at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date
and time.
Exhibit
1. Project Location and Existing Habitat Distribution Map.
Sept. 11, 2019 Item #11 Page 3 of 4
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #3 6 of 42
Source: SANOAG 2012; Sangis; Everest; AECOM 2014 9·~
Scale: 1 :7 .200: 1 Inch• 600 '8et
600 Feet
Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project Final EIR
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15
Nonnative Riparian
Coastal Scrub
-Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub
-Eucalyptus Woodland
Nonnative Grassland
Disturbed Habitat
-Urban/Developed
...
Exhibit 1
Figure ES-1
Project Location and Existing Habitat Distribution Map
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Sept. 11, 2019 Item #11 Page 4 of 4
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #3 7 of 42
Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement
Project: Status Report
1
City of Carlsbad
September 10, 2019
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #3 8 of 42
Buena Vista Lagoon Ownership
2
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Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #3 9 of 42
~ CITY COUNCIL
~ Staff Report
Meeting Date:
To:
From:
Staff Contact:
May 12, 2020
Mayor and City Council
Scott Chadwick, City Manager
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
jason.haber@carlsbadca.gov, 760-434-2958
CA Review CKM
Subject: Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project Update and Resolution
Recommended Action
Receive a presentation from the San Diego Association of Governments regarding the Buena
Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project status, and adopt a resolution approving a letter of support
to the SAN DAG Board of Directors for selection of the modified saltwater alternative and
authorizing the city manager to negotiate a project agreement with SAN DAG, the City of
Oceanside, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and certain property owners for
future approval by the City Council.
Executive Summary
SAN DAG has completed the final environmental impact report for the Buena Vista Lagoon
Enhancement Project. SAN DAG representatives will present an overview of the project
alternatives they considered (freshwater, saltwater, hybrid, modified saltwater and no project),
the reasons for identifying the modified saltwater alternative as the proposed project, and the
recommended approach and next steps to advance the project.
A resolution is presented to approve a letter of support for SANDAG's selection of the modified
saltwater alternative and to authorize the negotiation of a project agreement for future
approval by the City Council.
Discussion
The Buena Vista Lagoon is a freshwater lagoon located along Carlsbad's northern city limit. The
lagoon encompasses about 220 acres, extending from the coastline to just east of Interstate 5.
The lagoon is in a state of biological decline, and over the past decade numerous federal, state,
and local agencies and organizations have tried to reach consensus on how to reverse this
decline through a large-scale enhancement effort. The Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement
Project includes engineering studies and the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report to
analyze possible approaches to the enhancement of the lagoon.
In November 2018, the project's final environmental impact report was presented to the
SAN DAG Board of Directors for certification. At the request of the City of Carlsbad, the Board
approved a motion to delay any action on the project for six months to allow residents to reach
May 12, 2020 Item #5 Page 1 of 5
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 10 of 42
a consensus on the enhancement efforts. The proposed modified saltwater alternative
represents the result of this effort.
SANDAG has completed its engineering and environmental analyses, which can be found on the
agency's website along with the final environmental impact report at
keepsandiegomoving.com/buena_vista_lagoon_intro.aspx.
On May 22, 2020, the SAN DAG Board of Directors is expected to consider approving the
modified saltwater alternative as the proposed project and to certify the final environmental
impact report. SAN DAG staff recommends that the board approve the alternative and the
report, but with the condition that a master agreement be reached among certain property
owners, the cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife
and SAN DAG before the final engineering work begins. This agreement would identify agreed
upon terms, relinquish all prior easements and replace them with new easements prior to
construction bid at no cost.
Fiscal Analysis
There is no direct fiscal impact to the city in receiving this report or in adopting the proposed
resolution.
Next Steps
The SAN DAG Board of Directors will consider approving the modified saltwater alternative as
the project and certifying the final environmental impact report on May 22, 2020. Upon City
Council approval, staff will submit a letter of support for the modified saltwater alternative and
negotiate a project agreement with SAN DAG, the City of Oceanside, the California Department
of Fish and Wildlife and certain property owners for future approval by the City Council.
Environmental Evaluation (CEQA)
Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065, this action of receiving an update on the
Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project does not constitute a "project" within the meaning of
the California Environmental Quality Act in that it has no potential to cause either a direct
physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the
environment, and therefore does not require environmental review.
Public Notification
This item was noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and was available for public
viewing and review at least 72 hours prior to scheduled meeting date.
Exhibits
1. City Council resolution
May 12, 2020 Item #5 Page 2 of 5
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 11 of 42
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-084
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A LETTER OF SUPPORT TO THE SAN DIEGO
ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR SELECTION OF
THE BUENA VISTA LAGOON ENHANCEMENT PROJECT MODIFIED
SALTWATER ALTERNATIVE AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
NEGOTIATE A PROJECT AGREEMENT WITH SANDAG, THE CITY OF
OCEANSIDE, THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE AND
CERTAIN PROPERTY OWNERS FOR APPROVAL BY THE CITY COUNCIL
Exhibit 1
WHEREAS, the Buena Vista Lagoon is a freshwater lagoon located along Carlsbad's northern city
limit; and
WHEREAS, the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has determined that the
Buena Vista Lagoon is in a state of biological decline and has conducted engineering studies and
prepared an environmental impact report to analyze possible approaches to the enhancement of the
lagoon; and
WHEREAS, on May 22, 2020, the SAN DAG Board of Directors is expected to consider approving
the modified saltwater alternative as the proposed Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project and
certifying the project's final environmental impact report; and
WHEREAS, the modified saltwater alternative is the result of a collaborative consensus-building
effort among SANDAG, the cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside, the California Department of Fish and
Wildlife and certain property owners; and
WHEREAS, SAN DAG staff recommends that SANDAG's approval of the modified saltwater
alternative be conditioned to require that a project agreement be negotiated among SAN DAG, the
cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and certain property
owners before final engineering of the project begins, and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California has determined that SANDAG's
approval and implementation of the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project modified saltwater
alternative is in the best interest of the City of Carlsbad.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as
follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
May 12, 2020 Item #5 Page 3 of 5
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 12 of 42
2. That the Mayor is authorized to sign and submit the letter of support provided in
Attachment A to this Resolution.
3. That the City Manager is authorized to negotiate a project agreement for the Buena
Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project modified saltwater alternative with SANDAG, the
City of Oceanside, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and certain property
owners for future approval by the City Council.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Carlsbad on the 12th day of May 2020, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
Hall, Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Schumacher.
None.
None.
MATT HALL, Mayor
(SEAL)
May 12, 2020 Item #5 Page 4 of 5
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 13 of 42
May 12, 2020
San Diego Association of Governments
Hasan lkhrata, Executive Director
401 B Street, Suite 800
San Diego, CA 92101
Dear Mr. lkhrata,
Attachment A
{city of
Carlsbad
The City of Carlsbad is pleased to encourage and support the SANDAG Board of Directors in
approving the modified saltwater alternative as the proposed project for the enhancement of
the Buena Vista Lagoon.
The proposed project will effectively reverse the ecological decline of this vital natural resource
while reducing flood risks and improving water quality. The project will provide enhanced habitat
for endangered species while diminishing the lagoon's suitability as a breeding grounds for
mosquitos.
Finally, as the result of a collaborative effort among project stakeholders, and given the project's
consistency with the North Coast Corridor Public Works Plan and eligibility for use as mitigation
for regional transportation infrastructure projects, the modified saltwater alternative is the best
option for realizing the significant environmental benefits this project will bring to Carlsbad and
the greater San Diego region.
We thank you for your consideration and leadership in advancing this important project.
Sincerely,
Matt Hall
Mayor
City of Carlsbad City Council
City Hall 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 760-434-2820 t
May 12, 2020 Item #5 Page 5 of 5
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 14 of 42
Sheila Cobian
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Tuesday, May 12, 2020 9:54 AM
City Clerk·
Fwd: Council meeting of May 12
Sent: Tue, May 12, 2020 9:47 am
Subject: Council meeting of May 12
I would like the following read into the minutes of today's council meeting on an item concerning
Buena Vista Lagoon.
I am Allan Wanamaker I live at Jefferson Street, Carlsbad. I am against any salt water or mixed
regime for the lagoon. I believe it should remain fresh water, as it is now.
BV Lagoon is unique as a fresh water regime, supporting wildlife dependent on it.
I believe major siltation will occur at the choke points if the mouth of the lagoon is opened, and
constant maintenance will be required to maintain a mixed regime.
I think this enhancement project is a horrendous waste of our money. Several lower cost alternatives
are available, saving many millions of our dollars.
Thank you for your consideration.
Allan J. Wanamaker
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1
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 15 of 42
Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement
Project Update and Resolution
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
May 12, 2020
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 16 of 42
Recommended Action
•Receive a presentation from SANDAG
•Adopt a resolution
–Approving letter of support for the
modified saltwater project alternative
–Authorizing city manager to negotiate a
project agreement for Council approval
2
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 17 of 42
Background
•Nov. 2017 –City Council support for
saltwater project alternative
•Nov. 2018 –City Council continuance
request to SANDAG Board
–Allow stakeholders to develop hybrid
•May 2020 –modified saltwater alternative
3
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 18 of 42
4
Carlsbad City Council|May 12, 2020
Buena Vista Lagoon
Enhancement Program
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 19 of 42
Why does LagoonNeed Enhancement?
5
“The analysis indicated it is likely that all of the existing open water area, except for a
small flow channel, will evolve to vegetated habitat within the next 50 years.”
Page vii Feasibility Study (2004)
5
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 20 of 42
6
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 21 of 42
Location & Ownership
4
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June 5, 2025 Item #3 22 of 42
8
Weir
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Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 23 of 42
Existing Easements
4
1 inch = 60 feet
0 30 60
Assessors Parcel lines are approlci1113te
180 240
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~ Municipal Boundaries
67-037658
EJ 71-184384 and 71-184385 Parcel 2
71-184384 and 71-184385 Parcel 3
EZ2J 72-156539 Parcel 2
~ 72-156539 Parcel 3
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 24 of 42
10
Prior Alternatives
No Project Alternative Freshwater
Saltwater
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June 5, 2025 Item #3 25 of 42
11
Modified Saltwater
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June 5, 2025 Item #3 26 of 42
12
eBLAST
February 2020
Buena Vista Lagoon
Enhancement Program
Project Update
The San Diego Association of Governments (SAN DAG) was asked by the cities of
Carlsbad and Oceanside to take over as the lead agency in preparing an
environmental impact report (EIR) for the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement project
(in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act).
Buena Vista Lagoon
Enhancement
TransNet Home
Introduction
Subscribe for Updates Engineering Analysis }+----.................... ............ Environmental Analysis
Updated Cost Estimates
Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project Final EIR
Cover and Title
Changes Made to EIR
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Description of Project Alternatives
Chapter 3: Environmental Analysis
3.1: Land Use/Recreation
3.2: Hydrology
3.3: Oceanography/Coastal Processes
3.4: Water and Aquatic Sediment Quality
3.5: Biological Resources
3.6: Geology and Soils
3.7: Cultural Resources
3.8: Paleontological Resources
3.9: Visual Resources
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 27 of 42
Summary of EIR Conclusions
(Including Environmental Analysis for Modified Saltwater)
P = Significant permanent unavoidable impact
T = Significant temporary unavoidable impact
M = Significant but mitigated to less than significant impact 13
Environmental Resource No Project Freshwater Saltwater Hybrid Modified
Air Quality T T T T
Biological Resources P T T T T
Cultural Resources M M M M
Hydrology P
Land Use and Recreation M M M
Noise T T T T
Paleontological Resources M M M M
Public Health and Safety P P P P
Traffic and Circulation T T T
Visual Resources T P P P
Water Quality P M M M M
===-===--
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 28 of 42
0
100
200
300
400
500
Comparison of Benefits:
More is Good More is Bad
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
5.5 Saltwater
4.1 Hybrid
1.7
Freshwater
0 No Project
Average FloodReduction (ft)
433 Saltwater
282 Hybrid
238 No Project
Endangered Species Habitat (ac)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2 Saltwater
11 Hybrid
87
Freshwater
50 No
Project
Stagnant Water(days in the lagoon)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0 Saltwater
41 Hybrid
58
Freshwater
96 No Project
Habitat of Vector Mosquitos (ac)
14
392 Modified
0 Modified2.2
Modified5.5 Modified
237 Freshwater
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 29 of 42
Recommended Approach
1.Certify EIR to lock in Modified Saltwater project
2.Condition approval to enter into Master
Agreement prior to final engineering that does
following:
–Identifies agreed upon terms
–Relinquish all prior easements and replaces new
easements prior to construction bid
–Replacement easement(s) will be provided at no cost
and avoid using eminent domain
–Master Agreement to sign by owners of property, Cities
of Carlsbad and Oceanside, CDFW and SANDAG
15
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 30 of 42
NEXT STEPS
Certification of EIR
Seek Funding for Final Engineering
Enter into Master Agreement Conservation Easements
Start Construction
16
1 2 3 4 5
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 31 of 42
Questions?
17
Buena Vista Lagoon
Enhancement
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 32 of 42
Recommended Action
•Receive a presentation from SANDAG
•Adopt a resolution
–Approving letter of support for the
modified saltwater project alternative
–Authorizing city manager to negotiate a
project agreement for Council approval
18
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 33 of 42
Service Finder
Buena Vista Lagoon
CI TYO F OCEAN SIDE
(__ City of
Carlsbad
Buena Vista Lagoon is located in northern San Diego County, within the cities of Oceanside and Carlsbad. It
encompasses approximately 220 acres, extending to the coastline from just east of I-5. The Buena Vista Lagoon is
the only freshwater lagoon in Southern California. The Lagoon is owned by the California Department of Fish and
Wildlife and is managed by the Ecological Preserve. The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) is
currently working on an environmental study of future enhancements of the lagoon. SANDAG is currently working
on the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project. To view the details of the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement
Project, please see SANDAG's Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project Fact Sheet and the Final Environmental
ImP-act (EIR).. For additional information about the Buena Vista Lagoon, visit the Buena Vista Audubon Sode!)'.
Nature Center and the California DeP-artment of Fish and Wildlife.
Buena Vista Joint Powers Committee
The Buena Vista Lagoon Joint Powers Committee (BVLJPC) considers matters related to the Buena Vista Lagoon.
The Joint Powers Committee is responsible for the review, to advise, to comment and approve or deny all matters
related to the Buena Vista Lagoon. In addition, the BVLJPC has developed two sub committees to oversee project
implementation/financing and vector control.
Exhibit 3
June 5, 2025 Item #3 34 of 42
The BVLJPC consists of two city council members and one member of the public from both the City of Oceanside
and City of Carlsbad. The BVLJPC members include:
• Esther Sanchez, Oceanside Mayor
• Eric Joyce, Oceanside City Council Member
• Kelly Devaney, Oceanside Public Member
• Keith Blackburn, Carlsbad Mayor
• Kevin Shin, Carlsbad City Council Member
• Glen Stimmel, Carlsbad Public Member
The BVLJPC meetings are open to the public and held quarterly on Thursdays at 9 am. The meeting locations
alternate between City of Oceanside and City of Carlsbad. An agenda will be posted on the website 72 hours prior
to meetings. See below for past and upcoming agendas and meeting information.
Please contact Jayme Timberlake at (760) 435-3073, JTimberlake@oceansideca.org, and/or Nick Stupin,
nick.stupin@carlsbadca.gov, for any questions.
Video Recordings of Past Meetings
• Februanr_gzth, 2025
• Ma:v. 20th, 2024.
• March 18th, 2024
• J anuary_ggth, 2024.
• Se11tember 18, 2023_
• March 20, 2023.
• November 21, 2022
• July,: 18, 2022
. May,: 16, 2022
• Se11tember 20, 2021
• July_ig, 2021
Current Agenda Information
June 5, 2025 Item #3 35 of 42
Buena Vista Lagoon Joint Powers Special
Committee Meeting
ACTION MINUTES
Thursday, Feb.27,2025
9a.m.
Hosted by the City of Carlsbad
This Meeting was held at
City of Carlsbad Council Chamber
1200 Carlsbad Village Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008
MEMBERS: Esther Sanchez, Oceanside Mayor; Jimmy Figueroa, Oceanside Council
Member; Kelly Devaney, Oceanside Public Member; Keith Blackburn, Carlsbad Mayor;
Kevin Shin, Carlsbad Council Member; Glen Stimmel, Carlsbad Public Member
1. CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL
Mayor Sanchez called the meeting to order at 9:12 a.m.; all Committee members
except for Council Member Figueroa and Oceanside Public Member Devaney were
present.
2. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
There were no requests to speak.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PRIOR MEETING
Approval of Minutes: May 20, 2024
Minutes of May 20, 2024 were approved, 4/0/2 (Figueroa, Devaney -Absent).
4. NEW BUSINESS
a. Approve Buena Vista Lagoon Joint Powers Committee 2025 Meeting Calendar
Nick Stupin presented the proposed 2025 meeting calendar.
Motion by Mayor Blackburn, seconded by Council Member Shin, to adopt the
proposed 2025 meeting calendar. Motion carried, 4/0/2 (Figueroa, Devaney -
Absent).
b. Dissolution of Lagoon Enhanceqient Project Ad-hoc Committees
June 5, 2025 Item #3 36 of 42
Motion by Mayor Sanchez, seconded by Mayor Blackburn, to dissolve the Lagoon
Enhancement Project Ad-hoc Committees. Motion carried , 4/0/2 (Figueroa
Devaney -Absent).
5. OLD BU SINESS
a. Lagoon Enhancement Project -Technical Studies Performed
• Update by SANDAG (Kim Smith)
SANDAG Project Manager Kim Smith provided an update to include technical
studies , returning to the stakeholders in the near future , getting the project to
65% design and searching for additional funding.
Mayor Blackburn requested guidance from staff to move the project forward .
b. Wetlands Reserve Restoration Project Update
• Update by Buena Vista Lagoon Audubon Society Executive Director Natalie
Shapiro
Executive Director Natalie Shapiro gave an update on the Wetlands Reserve
Restoration Project including next steps .
6. COMMITTEE MEMBER COMM ENTS
No comments .
7. NEXT MEETING DATE: May 22, 2025
HOST: City of Oceanside
8. ADJOURNM ENT
Meeting adjourned at 10:03 a.m.
2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 37 of 42
Buena Vista Lagoon
Joint Powers Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, May 22, 2025
9:00 A.M.
Hosted by the City of Oceanside
This Meeting Will be Held at
City of Oceanside Council Chambers
300 N. Coast Hwy
MEMBERS: Esther Sanchez, Oceanside Mayor; Jimmy Figueroa,
Oceanside Council Member; Kelly Devaney, Oceanside Public Member;
Keith Blackburn, Carlsbad Mayor; Kevin Shin, Carlsbad Council Member;
Glen Stimmel, Carlsbad Public Member
1. CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL
2. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Limited to three minutes
The Brown Act allows any member of the public to comment on items not
on the agenda. Please treat others with courtesy, civility, and respect. In
conformances with the Brown Act, public comment is provided so members
of the public may participate in the meeting by submitting comments as
instructed below. The Buena Vista Lagoon Joint Powers Committee will
receive comments at the beginning of the meeting. In conformance with the
Brown Act, no action can occur on these items.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PRIOR MEETING
Approval of Minutes: February 27, 2025
4. NEW BUSINESS
a. Buena Vista Lagoon Weir Repair
• Update by City of Oceanside Engineering (Luis Cardenas)
5. OLD BUSINESS
a. Lagoon Enhancement Project -Technical Studies Performed
• Update by SANDAG (Kim Smith)
b. Wetlands Reserve Restoration Project Update
1
June 5, 2025 Item #3 38 of 42
• Update by Buena Vista Lagoon Audubon Society (Natalie
Shapiro)
6. COMMITTEE MEMBER COMMENTS
7. NEXT MEETING DATE: Sept. 25, 2025
HOST: City of Carlsbad
8. ADJOURNMENT
2
June 5, 2025 Item #3 39 of 42
MEMORANDUM
May 22, 2025
TO: Fellow Beach Preservation Commissioners
FROM: Beach Preservation Commission Chair Lisa Stark
RE: DEGRADATION OF RUE DES CHATEAUX BEACH AND PROPOSED SOLUTION
Carlsbad’s Northernmost beach, Rue des Chateaux, is rapidly losing sand due to recent
storm activity, causing erosion, sediment depletion and coastal retreat. This problem is
seriously diminishing the public utility and enjoyment of this beach. See below photos. A
large reef is developing near the slope supporting the Beach Villas, greatly limiting space
for the public to access and enjoy this beach, endangering wildlife frequenting the beach,
as well as creating problems for the lifeguards trying to monitor swimming and other water
activities in the area.
As stewards of our coastline, we must draw the City Council’s attention to the issue as
soon as possible. Here are some suggestions:
SANDAG and the Buena Vista Audobon Society are currently working on a project to restore
the Buena Vista Lagoon that is currently in the design and permitting phase. However, they
are seeking additional funds to implement the project, which we will hopefully get an
update as to an execution and completion date at the June 2025 Beach Preservation
Commission Meeting – the last one.
Exhibit 4
June 5, 2025 Item #3 40 of 42
I am also aware of SANDAG’s RBP III, which promises to put 240,000 cubic yards of sand on
the north Carlsbad beach. However, the preliminary process is only about 65% complete
(per the spread sheet we asked staff to create), with no hope for any sand dump until 2027
at the earliest.
I have been a Beach Commissioner for almost four years and am just now seeing some
progress on replenishing sand on our beaches. I really appreciate Staff’s placing each
project into a spreadsheet and regularly updating the sheet as projects progress. However,
I feel that Rue de Chateaux has been somewhat ignored during the current replenishment
phase. How can we express the urgency and importance of the project given the local state
of this Beach?
On a larger matter, and perhaps more importantly, we have all expressed concern about
our efforts to retain the sand we put on our beaches every 4 years or so. We must express
our interest in retaining this important resource, so it does not continue to diminish as our
coast continues to evolve and erode due to sea level rise.
We will now be operating under the broader category of Environmental Sustainability, but
we still need to emphasize the importance of protecting our beaches and moving
replenishment projects along and developing some plans to retain the sand we keep
replenishing. The City Council needs to hear our concerns. To effectuate this, we could
organize informational sessions/events to educate the community and try to get volunteer
contributions to create a beach sustainability project. We could engage social media to
request participation in the project to move it forward ASAP.
We could write a letter to the interested parties showing our support to move the RBS
project forward ASAP, request meetings with SANDAG and the Buena Vista Audubon
Society to see how our community can begin efforts to retain the sand we lose every year.
I did some research on sand retention efforts nationwide, and I personally admire
Oceanside’s “Living Speed Bumps” project. It was well thought out and innovative,
combining proven methods with site specific adjustments to ensure long-term
effectiveness.
Jaimie Timberlake explained that Oceanside looked at these 3 options:
1.Strategic Sand Retention Structures – such as installing small groins along the
beach to stabilize the sand and reduce erosion. These groins would help naturally
retain sand, increase beach usability and longevity. However, our City objected to
this option for fear it would interfere with our beaches;
Exhibit 4
June 5, 2025 Item #3 41 of 42
2.Offshore Reef – construct an artificial reef to mitigate wave energy and prevent
further sand displacement. The reef would also serve as a habitat for marine
species and contribute to ecological health
3.Dune restoration – plant native vegetation to create a natural barrier against erosion
and enhance biodiversity, similar to what we are doing at the Ponto beach site.
Oceanside has decided on a course of action to create “living speed bumps” and is moving
forward. We could mimic Oceanside’s project in Carlsbad by working with coastal
engineers, environmental scientists and local stakeholders to recommend a similar
structural change to the Rue des Chateaux beach, and all of Carlsbad’s beaches, ensuring
the design meets both environmental and community needs. This project would be
smaller, so less expensive. Oceanside implemented their project in phases to minimize
disruptions and assess effectiveness at each stage. We could establish a monitoring
program to track the project’s impact and incorporate sustainable materials to align with
environmental standards.
Like Oceanside’s project, this solution will not only address the immediate sand loss but
also improve coastal resilience, boost tourism, and support marine ecosystems, providing
lasting benefits for our community. Let’s try to work with Oceanside to foster a better
relationship between the cities!
As Chair of the Carlsbad Beach Preservation Commission for the last meeting, I do not find
it effective to do nothing to avoid sand depletion. Let’s at least share our concerns with our
City Council and come up with some viable suggestions for a prompt solution.
Sincerely,
Lisa Stark, Chair
Beach Preservation Commission
Exhibit 4
June 5, 2025 Item #3 42 of 42
Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement
Project Update
Nick Stupin, Parks Planning Manager
Parks & Recreation Department
June 5, 2025
RECOMMENDED ACTION
•Receive an informational report and
presentation from the San Diego Association of
Governments (SANDAG) staff on the status of
the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
2
LAGOON QUICK FACTS
Large freshwater lagoon
Landmark between Oceanside and Carlsbad
Contains coastal wetland habitat used by wildlife
Majority owned by CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife
Designated as an Ecological Reserve
Approximately 220 acres in size
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•A 2004 feasibility study projected that between
2030 and 2050, lagoon was to become vegetated
freshwater marsh or riparian woodland-meadow
This transition could reduce coastal habitat
biodiversity or eliminate saltwater marsh coastal
wetland functions and values
Decreased water circulation has created concerns
about vectors and water quality impairments
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•In July 2012, SANDAG became involved in
enhancement efforts for the lagoon and is the
lead agency for this project
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
5
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•SANDAG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization
for the San Diego region and plays a key role in the
regional coordination of a variety of projects
•10 of region’s jurisdictions are in the coastal zone
and collectively manage about 70 miles of coastline
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
6
SANDAG REPRESENTATIVE
•Kim Smith
o Senior Regional Planner
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
7
Why Does the Lagoon Need Enhancement?
| 8
Presentation
Overview
•Project History
•Current Lagoon
Conditions
•Project Actions
•Anticipated
Approach
•Design Elements
•Progress to date
•Next Steps
•Questions
| 9
Coast Highway Basin
I-5 Basin
Weir Basin
Railroad Basin
Project Area
Oceanside
Carlsbad
| 10
Project History
•Planning for enhancement
began in 2001
•SANDAG became involved in
2012
•CEQA Complete
•Project Status: Draft 30%
Design
| 10| 10
| 11
Land Ownership
| 12
Current Lagoon Conditions
•Historical tidal lagoon, converted to freshwater system in 1940
•Weir prevents tidal action
•Expanding cattail into historic subtidal areas due to sedimentation and
freshwater impoundment
•Recreational resources
—Nature Center operated by BV Audubon Society
—Informal trails near Nature Center
—Fishing - freshwater bass
•Vector concerns due to stagnant
freshwater conditions with dense vegetation
•Supports sensitive species – 7 state and/or federally listed threatened and
endangered
| 13
Current Conditions
2023 Existing Habitats and Basins
| 14
Project Actions
| 15
Anticipated Approach
•Similar to San Elijo Lagoon
Restoration Project
•Vegetation removal
•Overdredge pit
•Beneficial reuse of dredged
material from OD pit
•Placement of shallow dredge
material into OD pit
| 16
Design Elements
•Remove existing weir
•Convert lagoon from freshwater to
saltwater
•New tidal inlet construction
•Freshwater marsh vegetation
removal, regrading lagoon to
support tidal habitats, and
revegetation
•Expand channel at Carlsbad Blvd.
and replace existing bridge
| 16| 16
| 17
Design Elements
Beach Receiving Sites
Beneficial Use Options:
•Ocean littoral zone placement in Oceanside
•Onshore placement in Oceanside and
North Carlsbad
•On-site use
—wetland and/or upland habitat creation
—stockpile for future adaptive management
Progress to
Date
| 18
•Vegetation Surveys
•Topographic Survey
•Bathymetric Survey
•Marine Explorations and Sampling
•Physical and Chemical Lab Testing
| 18
| 19
Next Steps
•Sampling Analysis Plan Report (SAP/SAPR) in process
•Draft 30% Design Plans (including Carlsbad Blvd. Bridge) under
review
•Initiate 65% design in Fall 2025
•Wrap up grant in spring of 2026
•Identify and secure additional funding for permitting,100% final
engineering and design
20
Stay connected with SANDAG
Explore our website
SANDAG.org
Email: kim.smith@sandag.org
Follow us on social media:
@SANDAGregion @SANDAG
LITTORAL ZONE NOURISHMENT
•There are two locations near the lagoon, one in
Oceanside and one in North Carlsbad, where materials
dredged from the lagoon during enhancement
activities may be placed, depending upon grain size,
which influences the suitability for beaches
•Both sites had sand placed directly on their shorelines
as part of the 2001 RBSP I and the 2012 RBSP II
21
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
LITTORAL ZONE NOURISHMENT
•The North Carlsbad placement site is an onshore
site extending approximately 3,000 feet from south
of the lagoon outlet to intersection of Oak Street
•The character of each placement site varies by
season, tide, storm damage, and periodic beach
nourishment activities.
22
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
NEXT STEPS
•Staff will remain in communication with SANDAG
staff regarding developments on the project
•Staff will include an agenda item for the
Commission on the project at a significant milestone
23
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update
QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
Thank you
ITEM NO.3: BVL Enhancement Project Update