HomeMy WebLinkAboutEA 11-11; Calavera Dam Long Term Maintenance; Administrative Permits (ADMIN)PLANNING DEPARTMENT
APPLICATION FORM FOR . A i v :^
EARLY ASSESSMENT BY THE SPECIAL PROJECTS TEAM C'/^ v->
THIS SECTION FOR PLANNING DEPARTMENT USE ONLY
PROJECT (EA) I h f I DATE SUBMITTED;^/^^^^ y PLANNER; V\g4fJ^\|
PROJECT PROPONENT/DEPT CONTACT
SIGNATURE:
DEPUTY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
SIGNATl
Please type your responses in the boxes provided below. The form may be expanded to accommodate as much
information as you choose to provide.
PROJECT NAME/TITLE:
CALAVERA DAM LONG TERM MAINTENANCE CONTRACT
Have you submitted any previous early assessment applications for this project with Planning staff? If so, please attach a
copy of the original request and the Planning Department's response.
Yes for the dam repairs initiated 2006.
Is the project part of an approved CIP budget or a future CIP budget? If so, please provide the CIP Project #.
Yes, 3812
List any previous and/or anticipated future Planning Commission or City Council actions (e.g., permit approvals, activity
authorizations, etc.) related to this project.
HMP Permit, MND
List any previously certified environmental documents (e.g., EIRs, Negative Declarations).
MND - Case NoCUP 04-11/HMP 05-03
List any technical studies that have been prepared or that you anticipate will be prepared (e.g., biology, archeology, traffic,
noise, etc.).
Biology, Jurisdictional Delineation
Is the project on City property? If not, has property owner authorization or an easement been secured?
Yes
RECEIVED
MAY 2 3 2011
CITY OF CARLSBAD
PLANNING DEPT
Early Assessment For City Projects - Revised 1/3/11 Page 2 of4
PLANNING DIVISION
EARLY ASSESSMENT FOR CITY PROJECTS
PROCEDURE AND APPLICATION
WHAT is Uif^fU'ly Assessment?
It is ah early, informal review of your city project by the Planning Division prior to a formal application submittal.
The Early Assessment review is required for all city projects.
WHA Tyou need to provide:
• Application form (signed by the project engineer and the Deputy City Engineer);
• Two (2) sets of yovu- site plan and/or other exhibits (folded to 8*/4 x 11) with sufficient detail to allow staff to
adequately review your proposed project;
• Completed storm water standards questioimaire Form E-34 (see below for more information).
• Any other information that you think will contribute to staffs understanding of your proposal.
About the storm water form: The storm water standards questioimaire (Form E-34) to complete is available firom
the Development Application Forms and Handouts page of the city's website at
http://www.carlsbadca.gov/business/building/perrmtting-process/Pages/Engineering_Applications.aspx. Since
storm water requirements are location and project-specific, please complete the form for each project proposed
and for each project location proposed. For projects covering large areas, such as a pavement overlay or sidewalk
replacement, it may be appropriate to fill out only one form. For guidance on storm water or if you have questions
about the form and its applicability, please contact Jeremy Riddle, Associate Civil Engineer, in Land
Development Engineering at Jeremv.riddle@carlsbadca.gov or extension 2737.
WHERE to submit:
Please submit your application at the Planning Division Development Services Coimter.
HOW your application will be processed:
After a submittal is made, your application will be sent to the Land Development engineer and Special Projects
plaimer assigned to review it. Depending on the project, the plaimer may request additional plans for review by
additional departments, such as Police or Fire.
The planner will prepare a written response to your submittal (in memo form), incorporating comments from all
reviewing departments. You should receive this memo within thirty days after the date you submitted the
application. The response memo will address (at a minimum) the following:
• General Plan, Zoning, and Coastal Zone information;
• Anticipated permit, processing, and CEQA requirements;
• Storm water requirements or comments;
• Identification of any major project issues based upon the Early Assessment submittal; and,
• Contact information for the planner and engineer and any other persons who reviewed your project.
The Early Assessment does not represent an in-depth analysis of your proiect. The completeness and accuracy of
your submittals will dictate the quality of your project's Early Assessment response. Additional issues of concem
may be raised after your permit application package is formally submitted and processed for a more specific and
detailed review. Also, additional and/or different issues of concem may arise with the passage of time and
changing circxmistances, regulations, etc. Therefore, the issues and requirements identified in the Early
Assessment response memo might change if there is a long lead time between the Early Assessment response and
the submittal of a formal proiect application.
A copy of your Early Assessment will be kept on file in the Planning Division Should you submit a formal
application in the future, the Planning Division will make every effort to assign the application to the same
plarmer who processed your Early Assessment application.
Early Assessment For City Projects - Revised 1/3/11 Page 1 of 4
Identify the project location. Include specific parcel niunbers if possible
168-040-02-00
A portion of Lots D and L of Rancho Agua Hedionda, Map No. 823
Identify the project schedule. List critical and desired milestones including dates in the development review and
constmction process (e.g., public hearing dates, grant application submittal deadlines, pubUc workshops, constmction
phasmg, etc.).
CEQ/Permitting May - August 2011
Maintenance - Aimually in September
DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSAL - Describe the project in as much detail as possible. Use as much space as needed.
Attach additional sheets (drawings, etc.) if necessary. Be sure to identify, if applicable, estimated quantities of grading
(including import/export), constmction staging areas on and offsite, areas of sensitive vegetation, unique constmction
technologies, proposed facility technologies and byproducts, and any public art component. If preliminary or conceptual
plans or exhibits are available, please include two sets with this transmittal.
Project Description
Project Background
The Lake Calavera reservoir impoundment (dam) is formed by the compacted earth-fill dam containing rock
blankets on both upstream and downstream faces. The decomposed granite base was excavated and the dam
and spillway structures were completed in 1941. The primary function of the Lake Calavera Reservoir is
stormwater retention for flood control. The surface area of the reservoir, when full, approximates 21 acres in
size. Its maximum storage capacity is approximately 540 acre-feet of water. The average depth of the reservoir
is between 12 to 16 feet and has a maximum water depth of 54 feet. The parcel encompassing the Lake
Calavera Reservoir is owned by the City of Carlsbad and the Carlsbad Municipal Water District (CMWD)
operates and maintains the dam. In 2009, CMWD completed the Calavera Dam Remedial Improvements
Project, to repair the badly neglected dam and appurtenances which would allow function and control of the
dam and compliance with Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) requirements. That project included repairs to the
existing Lake Calavera Reservoir intake/outlet works, to the spillway and access road, to the existing outlet
piping using slip-lining methods, to construct a control building, and to install fencing for improved site security
around the dam operations. Vegetation was removed at that time, but has since grown back. Pursuant to
DSOD directives, the vegetation on the dam and in the spillway should be removed annually, so it will not re-
establish.
Responsibility for supervision of dams and reservoirs is assigned to the Department of Water Resources and
delegated to the DSOD. Water Code Sections 6000 to 6004.5 and 6025.5 identify dams and reservoirs that are
in State jurisdiction. In matters relating to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Department of
Water Resources is the lead or responsible agency for dams and reservoirs. According to the current practices
of the DSOD (published on their website at http://www.water.ca.gov/damsafetv/docs/CurrentPractices.pdf.
viewed May 6, 2011) repair and maintenance qualify for an exemption under CEQA. However, because the
repair activities involve the removal of sensitive habitat the City of Carlsbad (a Responsible Agency and the
project proponent) will require an Initial Study.
Project Description
The project site is located at the southwestern end of Lake Calavera, off of Tamarack Avenue in the City of
Carlsbad. The project entails removal of vegetative material from the north (lake-side or upstream side) and
south (downstream side) faces of the dam, spillway, and outlet structure in response to an order from the
DSOD. The vegetation in the immediate and surrounding (within 400 feet from the dam) vicinity is dominated by
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub, Disturbed Land, Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh, Nonnative Grassland,
Early Assessment For City Projects - Revised 1/3/11 Page 3 of 4
Non-native Vegetation, Southern Willow Scrub, Mule Fat Scrub, Coast Liv^^kTRiparian Forest, and Open
Water. The total area to be maintained includes approximately 3 acres the majority of which (2.8 acres) has
been maintained in the past and is therefore disturbed. Vegetation (including some riparian habitat) would be
removed using any or all of the following methods: by hand, application of herbicide, and mechanically (using a
Gradall excavator [or equivalent] from the top of the dam). All mechanical equipment and trucks used during
maintenance activities would be staged in paved or developed areas on the top of the dam or on the access
road where the substrate is either bare ground or paved. No ground disturbance (i.e., grading) is proposed as
part of the project. Initial maintenance would include removal of some trees and shrubs as well as low growing
vegetation. The City would conduct maintenance outside of nesting bird season (i.e., outside of February 15th
through September 15th). Installation of temporary exclusionary fencing would ensure that the limits of
construction are clearly defined prior to brush clearing activities and clearly visible to personnel on foot and
equipment operators. Construction personnel shall strictly limit their activities and vehicles to the proposed
project construction areas, approved staging areas, and routes of travel. The lake level would be lowered by
approximately 3 feet in order for submerged vegetation to be removed. The removed vegetative materials
would be mulched in a chipper and hauled away in trucks to an approved disposal facility. Approximately 5
loads would be necessary. Maintenance activities will occur in perpetuity, annually for a period of approximately
5 days per annual maintenance event.
Permits will be required from the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) for impacts to riparian
habitat (pursuant to the Lake and Streambed Alteration Program) and from the City pursuant to the City's
Habitat Management Plan (HMP).
Early Assessment For City Projects - Revised 1/3/11 Page 4 of 4
CALAVERA DAM LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE PROJECT
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
PROJECT BACKGROUND
The project site is located at the southwestem end of Lake Calavera, off Tamarack Avenue in the City
of Carlsbad (see Figure 1). It is formed by the compacted earth-fill dam containing rock blankets on
both upstream and downstream faces. The decomposed granite base was excavated and the dam and
spillway stmctures were completed in 1941. The primary function of the Lake Calavera Reservoir is
stormwater retention for flood control. The surface area of the reservoir, when full, is approximately
21 acres. Its maximum storage capacity is approximately 540 acre-feet. The average depth of the
reservoir is between 12 to 16 feet and has a maximum water depth of 54 feet. The dam has a height of
67 feet fi'om top of dam to the outfall stmcture.
The parcel encompassing the Lake Calavera Reservoir is owned by the City of Carlsbad (City) and
the Carlsbad Municipal Water District (CMWD) operates and maintains the dam. In 2006, CMWD
initiated the Calavera Dam Remedial Improvements Project, which was completed in 2009, to repair
the badly neglected dam and appurtenances to comply with the State of Califomia Division of Safety
of Dams (DSOD) requirements. That project included repairs to the existing Lake Calavera Reservoir
intake/outlet works, to the spillway and access road, to the existing outlet piping using sUp-lining
methods, and constmction of a control building and fencing for improved site security around the
dam operations. Vegetation was removed at that time, but has since grown back. Pursuant to DSOD
directives, the vegetation on the dam and in the spillway should be removed aiuiually, so it will not
reestablish.
Responsibility for supervision of dams and reservoirs is assigned to the Department of Water
Resources (DWR) and delegated to the DSOD. Water Code Sections 6000 to 6004.5 and 6025.5
identify dams and reservoirs that are under State jurisdiction. In matters relating to the Califomia
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the DWR is typically the lead or responsible agency for dams
and reservoirs. According to the current practices of the DSOD (published on its website at
http://www.water.ca.gov/damsafetv/docs/CurrentPractices.pdf. viewed May 6, 2011) repair and
maintenance qualify for an exemption under CEQA. However, because the repair activities involve
the removal of sensitive habitat, the City of Carlsbad (the CEQA lead agency and the project
proponent) will require an Initial Study. The DSOD will be a responsible agency under CEQA.
PROJECT PURPOSE
The purpose of the proposed project is to respond to a recommendation from the DSOD in a field
inspection report dated April, 19, 2010, which recommended that the following actions be taken:
• Remove the small trees located near the downstream end of the spillway chaimel on the top left
side; and
P;\HCR1102-Calavera Dam Long Term MaintenanceVProject Description Calavera Dam.doc (13/05/2011)
LSA LEGEND
• Project Location
FIGURE 1
SOURCE: USGS 7.5' Quad - San Luis Rey (1975), CA
Calavera Dam Vegetation Removal Project
Project Location
R:\HCR1102\GIS\Figl_Proj_l^.mxd (4/13/2011)
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
MAY 2011
DRAFT PROJECT DESCRIPTION
CALAVERA DAM LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE PROJECT
• Remove all obscuring vegetation from the upstream and downstream faces of the dam, including
the tules on the upstream face.
The report further explained that the "dense tule growth on the upstream face of the dam made it
difficult to conduct a thorough visual inspection and provided an inviting area for rodents and
burrowing animals. All tules located on the upstream face of the dam should be removed."
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The project site is located at the southwestem end of Lake Calavera, off Tamarack Avenue in the City
of Carlsbad. The project entails removal of vegetative material from the north (lakeside or upstream
side) and south (downstream side) faces of the dam, spillway, and outlet stmcture in response to an
order fi-om the DSOD. The vegetation in the immediate and surrounding (within 400 feet from the
dam) vicinity is dominated by Diegan Coastal Sage Scmb, Disturbed Land, Coastal and Valley
Freshwater Marsh, Normative Grassland, Non-native Vegetation, Southem Willow Scmb, Mule Fat
Scmb, Coast Live Oak, Riparian Forest, and Open Water. The total area to be maintained includes
approximately 3 acres, 2.8 acres of which has been maintained in the past and is therefore disturbed.
Vegetation (including some riparian habitat) would be removed using any or all of the following
methods: by hand, application of herbicide, and mechanically (using a Gradall excavator [or
equivalent] from the top of the dam). All mechanical equipment and tmcks used during maintenance
activities would be staged in paved or developed areas on the top of the dam or on the access road
where the substrate is either bare ground or paved. No ground disturbance (i.e., grading) is proposed
as part of the project. Initial maintenance would include removal of some trees and shmbs as well as
low-growing vegetation. The City will conduct maintenance outside of nesting bird season (i.e.,
outside of Febmary 15 through September 15). Installation of temporary exclusionary fencing would
ensure that the limits of constmction are clearly defined prior to bmsh-clearing activities and clearly
visible to persoimel on foot and equipment operators. Constmction persormel shall strictly limit their
activities and vehicles to the proposed project constmction areas, approved staging areas, and routes
of travel. The lake level would be lowered by approximately 3 feet in order for submerged vegetation
to be removed. No permits or permissions are required from the DSOD for the CMWD to perform
maintenance (including lowering and raising lake levels as required for maintenance activities). The
removed vegetative materials would be mulched in a chipper and hauled away in tmcks to an
approved disposal facility. Approximately 5 loads would be necessary. Maintenance activities will
occur in perpetuity, annually for a period of approximately 5 days per annual maintenance event.
Permits will be required from the Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) for impacts to
riparian habitat (pursuant to the Lake and Streambed Alteration Program) and fi-om the City pursuant
to the City's Habitat Management Plan (HMP). The CDFG will also be a responsible agency under
CEQA.
P:\HCR1102-Calavera Dam Long Term Maintenance\Project Description Calavera Dam.doc (13/05/2011)
LSA
LS,^ ASSOCIATES, INC. RIVERSIDE
PACIFIC CENTER BERKELEY FRESNO ROCKLIN
703 PALOMAR AIRPORT RD., SUITE 260 760.931 .547 I TEL FT. COLLINS PALM SPRINGS SAN LUIS OBISPO
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA 9201 1 760.91 8.2458 FAX IRVINE PT. RICHMOND SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
March 10, 2011
Ms. Sherri Howard
City of Carlsbad
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carisbad, Califomia 92008-7314
Subject: Proposal for Environmental Consulting Services for the Calavera Dam Vegetation
Removal Project (LSA Proposal No. ZZZ213J1)
Dear Sherri:
LSA Associates, Inc., (LSA) hereby submits this proposal for enviroimiental consulting services.
Specifically, this proposal addresses analysis of biological resources, including a jurisdictional
delineation, assistance with agency permitting, regulatory agency consultation, coordination and
meetings with the City of Carlsbad (City), preparation of a conceptual mitigation plan, preparation of
Califomia Envirormiental Quality Act (CEQA) documentation, and assistance with the City's Habitat
Management Plan application in support of the subject project.
LSA understands that it will provide these services pursuant to the firm's existing on-call contract
with the City.
SCOPE OF WORK
Task 1: Project Initiation
Prior to work efforts, LSA will identify all docxmient and information needs. Based on the
preliminary project description and discussions with City staff, an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative
Declaration (IS/MND) would be appropriate under CEQA. All project preparation will be conducted
with the assumption that an IS/MND is the appropriate document for this project. Confirmation from
the City Plaiming Department will be required. If it is subsequently determined that an IS/MND is not
adequate documentation to satisfy CEQA, LSA can provide required services under a separate scope
and budget. It is anticipated that the data necessary to conduct an accurate and thorough assessment of
the potential impacts that may result fi-om the proposed project can be obtained from the City. To
commence work, some or all of the following information may be required:
• Any previously prepared technical studies prepared for the proposed project;
• Relevant planning documents that may have been prepared for project area (e.g., related CEQA
documentation);
• An electronic copy of the site map for the proposed project showing site limits and maximum
extent of ground disturbance;
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PLANNING I ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES |
LSA ASSOCIATES. INC.
• The most recent site plan delineating the location, configuration, and size of any proposed on-site
stmcture, use, or utility;
• A detailed, written project description that identifies the size, intended use, type of constmction,
site coverage, and location of proposed on-site stmctures, and facilities;
• Reproducible illustrative drawings/simulations/elevations of the proposed on-site uses; and
• Right-of-entry authorization (for required surveys).
During this task, LSA staff will review the previously prepared technical studies, planning
docxmients, or CEQA studies (if any) for relevancy and adequacy. Information from these studies
may be used in the analysis of the project impacts in subsequent environmental documentation.
LSA staff will conduct an inspection of the project site and the surrounding area. The purpose of this
reconnaissance will be to gain an imderstanding of existing conditions, the physical setting of the
proposed project site, and the relationship between the project site and adjacent land uses.
Output: The collection of data required to conduct a thorough environmental review of the
proposed project.
Task 2: Biological Resources
The proposed scope of services will address potential biological resources issues as required for the
project review process for the City and pursuant to CEQA.
Literature Review. LSA will conduct a literature review to identify special-status known or reported
to occur within the project area. The literature review will include the Califomia Natural Diversity
Data Base (CNDDB) and the Califomia Native Plant Society (CNPS) Electronic Inventory. Due to
the developed and disturbed nature of the project site (e.g., existing dam), it is anticipated that the
proposed project would not be within the survey areas for HMP species.
Task 2a: General Biological Resources Survey and Biological Resources Technical Report
Preparation. A general on-site survey will be conducted by an LSA biologist familiar with the
habitats and sensitive resources of the region. LSA will prepare a Biological Resources Technical
Report (BTR) including a summary of the results of the literature review and field survey. The report
will be prepared according to the City's Guidelines for Biological Studies (July 2009). Budget for this
task allows for analysis of impacts to biological resources for one conceptual design footprint. LSA
will submit the draft biological resources report to the City in electronic (Microsoft Word) format for
review. Upon completion of one round of City review, LSA will incorporate comments and finalize
the biological resources report. Budget for this task allows for one round of revisions.
Output: Up to two (2) hard copies of the BTR and an electronic copy (both PDF and Microsoft
Word) on CD-ROM.
Note: Depending on the results of the BTR, additional focused plant and/or animal surveys may
be required. This scope and cost estimate does not include work efforts associated with
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
preparation and/or reporting of focused biological resource surveys that may be required
per applicable local, State, or Federal agencies.
Task 2b: Jurisdictional Delineation. LSA biologists will conduct a routine jurisdictional delineation
of waters of the U.S. per the 1987 United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Manual
Parameters and Arid West Region (Regional Supplement) (2006). The study will map and identify
waters subject to the jurisdiction of the USACE and drainages and habitat subject to jurisdiction of
the Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), pursuant to Section 404 of the Federal Clean
Water Act (CWA), and Section 1600 et seq. of the Califomia Fish and Game Code, respectively.
Limits of potential jurisdiction will be mapped using Geographic Positioning Systems (GPS)
hardware and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software.
The results of the field studies will be summarized in a report complete with graphic exhibits. The
limits and areas of the potentially jurisdictional areas will be depicted on the graphic exhibits and
discussed in the text. The report will also discuss potential mitigation requirements for impacts to
waters. The report will not include analysis of proposed impacts to waters. The jurisdictional
delineation will be in a format typically used to obtain environmental permits from resource agencies,
including the USACE, CDFG, and the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). LSA will
prepare draft jurisdictional determination forms on behalf of the USACE to facilitate permit
processing.
Output: Up to two (2) hard copies of the Jurisdictional Delineation Report, an elecfronic copy on
CD-ROM, and one hard copy and digital copy of the Preliminary Jurisdictional
Delineation Form.
Task 2c: Resource Agency Permitting.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Permit Application. An LSA permitting specialist will prepare a
Pre-Constmction Notification (PCN) and prepare a Preliminary Jurisdictional Delineation Form for
submittal to the USACE, requesting a permit pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA. LSA assumes that
a Nationwide Permit will be sufficient for the project and that a PCN will be required. In the unlikely
event that the project requires an Individual Permit, additional budget will be required. LSA will
provide a draft version of the PCN to the City prior to agency submittal. LSA has budgeted for one
roimd of revisions. Budget for this task is based on the assumption that the project will not result in
impacts to cultural resources and, therefore, will not be subject to analysis pursuant to Section 106 of
the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
Authorization likely will require submittal of as-built engineering plans for the existing facility.
Budget for this task assumes coordination with design engineers, data procurement, and transfer. A
Conceptual and Final Mitigation and Monitoring Plan will also likely be required. This scope and cost
estimate includes preparation and one round of revision to the Conceptual Mitigation Plan.
California Department of Fish and Game Permit Application. An LSA permitting specialist will
prepare a Section 1602 Notification of Lake or Streambed Aheration (CDFG Form 2023 including
Attachment D [Routine Maintenance]). LSA will provide the City with a draft version of the
application prior to agency submittal. LSA has budgeted for one round of revisions to this application.
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LSA ASSOCIATES, I.NC.
Regional Water Quality Control Board Application. An LSA permitting specialist will prepare an
application for water quality certification to be submitted to the San Diego RWQCB pursuant to
Section 401 of the CWA. LSA will provide the City with a draft version of the certification
application package for review prior to agency submittal. LSA has budgeted for one round of
revisions to this application.
Output: One digital copy of all permit application packages on CD-ROM.
Task 2d: Meetings and Coordination with Resource Agencies. Budget for this task allows for
coordination with the resource agents during the permitting process. One site visit and one multi-
agency, pre-application meeting is included in this cost estimate. Any additional site visits can be
budgeted separately.
Task 2e: HMP Permit Assistance. An LSA biologist will provide assistance to the City to complete
a permit application for consistency with the City's HMP. LSA will also provide assistance to the
Planning Department by including draft findings subject to approval of the City Planning Staff. LSA
will provide the Engineering Department with a draft version of the application for review prior to
submittal to the Planning Department. LSA has budgeted for one round of revisions to this
application.
Output: One digital copy of the HMP permit package.
Task 3: Other Technical Studies
LSA does not anticipate the need to prepare stand-alone technical studies in support of the IS/MND.
This project does not include an operations component; therefore, the majority of discussion will
focus on constmction impacts associated with implementation. LSA technical experts will provide
text within the CEQA document regarding constmction impacts associated with Air Quality, Cultural
Resources, Hazardous Materials, Noise, and Traffic using supporting information from the previously
approved IS/MND for the Lake Calavera Reservoir Remedial Improvements project (January 2006).
A records search for cultural resources in the project study area has not been conducted in the past
two years. Therefore, LSA recommends conducting a record search for cultural resources for the
project study area. The results of the record search will be recorded in a brief letter report (assumes
negative findings) and attached to the IS/MND and relevant permit applications. If technical studies
are required, LSA can provide an additional scope and cost estimate.
Task 4: Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
The IS/MND will include a detailed project description based on information provided by the City.
The IS/MND will be used by City staff to determine potential environmental effects of the project
implementation and make a determination as to the appropriate environmental clearance for the
project.
LSA will assemble all pertinent data provided by and/or commissioned by the project proponent and
other relevant sources. LSA will review the City of Carlsbad General Plan, pertinent environmental
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
records for the site, applicant-prepared reports, and/or other relevant documents to ascertain the
existence of and/or extent of potential environmental impacts. The IS/MND and associated Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) will discuss compliance with City's Guidelines on
Habitat Creation and Restoration and Wetlands and Riparian Buffers, as applicable. An assessment of
the following environmental issues as they relate to the proposed project, applicable City standards,
and/or the standards of State or Federal entities will be conducted.
Aesthetics
Agricultural and Forestry Resources
Air Quality
Biological Resources
Cultviral Resources
Geology and Soils
Greenhouse Gases
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Hydrology and Water Quality
Land Use and Planning
Mineral Resources
Noise
Population and Housing
Public Services
Recreation
Traffic and Circulation
Utilities
Mandatory Findings of Significance
Following completion of processing of the IS/MND, LSA will prepare an MMRP, in accordance with
the City's standard format, to implement the mitigation measures (if any) required in the IS/MND for
the proposed project. The mitigation measures will be included in a matrix check-off format for ease
in fracking unplementation. One draft version of the MMRP will be submitted to the City for review,
followed by a final MMRP that incorporates relevant comments from City staff.
LSA will prepare a Screencheck Draft IS/MND and submit two (2) hard copies and a digital copy of
the Screencheck Draft IS/MND for review by City staff. Upon receipt of a consolidated and non-
contradictory set of comments from City staff, LSA will revise the document as appropriate. After
any required revisions have been incorporated into the document, LSA will prepare the Draft
IS/MND for public review. LSA will provide the City with up to thirty (30) copies of the Draft
IS/MND for public review. The IS/MND will be circulated for a minimum 20-day public review
period. In the event the project is determined to be of areawide, regional, or Statewide significance
(per CEQA § 15206), the Draft IS/MND must be submitted to the State Clearinghouse (Govemor's
Office of Planning and Research) for distribution to State agencies. Under this circumstance, the
document must be available for a 30-day public review period. It is anticipated that a 30-day public
review period will be necessary for this project.
It is assumed in this scope that the City will distribute the Draft IS/MND to local agencies for public
review. This scope assumes that submittal to the State Clearinghouse will be required. LSA will
prepare and submit fifteen (15) copies of an issues smnmary document to the State Clearinghouse as
well as fifteen (15) copies of the entire IS/MND/MMRP and appendices in digital format (PDF on
CD ROM) to the State Clearinghouse. The City will provide a copy of the notice of completion
(NOC) to LSA for inclusion in the submittal package to the State Clearinghouse. The City will be
responsible for providing notice of the availability of the IS/MND in local newspaper(s), and for
filing the necessary notices with the San Diego County Clerk. This scope and budget assumes one
round of review by the City. Additional rounds of review may be conducted under an augment to this
scope and budget.
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LSA ASSOCIA I KS, INC.
Output: Up to two (2) hard copies and one digital copy on CD-ROM (in PDF and Microsoft
Word) of the Screencheck Draft IS/MND for review by the City and up to twenty (20)
digital copies (PDF) of the Draft IS/MND/MMRP and all appendices and supporting
studies, NOC, NOI (provided by City) and summary (for electronic submittal) for public
review. Electronic files will be manageably-sized and logically organized for posting on
the Internet. One electronic version will be in Microsoft Word. Up to 6 paper copies of
the Draft IS/MND/MMRP, including supporting studies for City staff and public review.
Fifteen (15) electronic copies of Draft IS/MND/MMRP, including supporting studies, in
PDF format (on CD ROM) and 15 paper copies of the issues summary for submittal to
the State Clearinghouse.
Note: If the Initial Study concludes that any significant enviroimiental impact cannot be
mitigated to a less than significant level, a IS/MND is not the appropriate form of
environmental documentation for CEQA clearance of the proposed project. LSA will
contact the project proponent in the event this condition occurs.
Task 5: Responses to Comments
Upon close of the public review period, LSA will prepare responses to pubhc and agency comments
received regarding the Draft IS/MND. Given that it is not possible to predict the number and/or extent
of public comments to be received on the IS/MND, this scope^udget estimates up to 20 hours of
professional staff time for preparation of responses to written comments. Recirculation of the
enviroimiental document is not anticipated and is not included in this fee estimate.
LSA will formulate responses to the comments received on the Draft IS/MND within two weeks of
receipt of a complete set of comments received during the public review period. Once draft responses
to comments are completed, they will be submitted to the City for review and comment. This scope
includes one round of review by the City. As required, the Draft IS/MND will be revised to
incorporate relevant comments/data received during the public review period. Revisions to the Draft
IS/MND will be identified to facilitate subsequent review. If revisions are needed to the publicly-
circulated document, LSA will prepare findings/text to support whether changes do or do not warrant
recirculation per CEQA Guideline 15073.5. As stated previously, recirculation is neither anticipated
nor budgeted for. All comments received on the Draft IS/MND during the public review period, as
well as the responses to comments, will be included as an appendix to the Final IS/MND.
Task 6: Final IS/MND and Notice of Determination
LSA will prepare up to three (3) hard copies and one digital copy (in PDF and Microsoft Word) of the
Final IS/MND including the responses to comments (if any), MMRP, and supporting docimientation.
This scope includes attendance at up to two meetings related to approval of the proposed project.
Subsequent to adoption of the IS/MND, LSA will provide the City with the Notice of Determination
(NOD) for submission to the County Clerk and State Clearinghouse. While LSA will prepare the
NOD, it is the responsibility of the City to file the NOD with the County Clerk and State
Clearinghouse. It should be noted that failure to file the NOD within five business days of project
approval could substantially increase the period in which the project approval may be legally
(3/10/2011) L;\PROPOSAL\ZZZ213Jl-CaIavera Dam\ZZZ213Jl-SCOPE OF WORK.doc
LSA ASSOCIATES, I NC.
challenged. LSA will complete applicable forms to comply with AB 3158 (CDFG filing fees) and
provide them to the City for filing.
The cost estimate does not include any public noticing of the environmental document in the
newspaper(s), filing of the NOD with the County Clerk and State Clearinghouse, or payment of the
fees to the County and/or CDFG.
Task 7: Project Management
This task includes coordination with the intemal LSA project team and coordination with the City to
facilitate the project.
BUDGET ESTIMATE
We propose to accomplish the above-detailed tasks on an hourly basis, consistent with the attached
billing schedule. We estimate that a budget of $59,995 will be required to complete the work effort
associated with the Biological Resources Technical Report, Jurisdictional Delineation, Resource
Agency Permitting, HMP Permit Preparation and Assistance, and IS/MND. This estimate will not be
exceeded without prior authorization. This estimate does not include the preparation of additional
supporting technical studies. In the event that additional supporting technical studies are needed, a
separate contract may be prepared.
1 Task Budget
1 Task 1: Project Initiation $ 785
Task 2: Biological Resources
Site Visit
Biological Resources Technical Report
Jurisdictional Delineation
Resource Agency Permits
Meetings and Coordination
HMP Permit Assistance
$ 1,615
$ 7,635
$ 4,550
$ 10,180
$ 2,870
$ 5,590
Task 3: Other Technical Studies $ 7,620
Task 4: Draft IS/MND
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
$ 9,725
$ 1,665
Task 5: Response to Comments $ 1,605
Task 6: FinallS/MND
Notice of Determination
$ 1,655
$ 135
Task 7: Project Management $ 3,015
Reimbursables $ 1,350
TOTAL $ 59,995
SCHEDULE
Preparation of the Screencheck Draft IS/MND for the proposed project can be completed within five
(5) weeks of the receipt of all relevant and required project-specific information. Below is a typical
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
schedule to prepare an IS/MND leading to the adoption of a certified CEQA document. The schedule
provides estimated time frames for each task and will be adjusted as necessary per discussion with the
project proponent, taking into consideration key factors such as actual receipt of project information
by LSA, the extent of comments received on the Draft IS/MND, and/or review of products by the
City staff. LSA can provide a more detailed schedule with milestone dates if requested. Resource
Agency Permits typically take between 6 weeks and 6 months to be approved.
TASK PERIOD'
Completion of Technical Studies 4 weeks from authorization to proceed
LSA Completes IS/MND 5 weeks^
Review of Screencheck Draft IS/MND Complete - Comments to LSA 4 weeks
LSA Completes Draft IS/MND 1 week
Public Review 40 days'
LSA Completes Responses to Public Comments and Prepares MMRP 2 weeks
Review of Responses to Comments/MMRP by the City 2 weeks
Final IS/MND 1 week
LSA Prepares Notice of Detennination 1 work day
21 + weeks
' Time periods are sequential from completion of the previous task.
^ From receipt of required and relevant project specific information.
3 .-tf4heJS/MN&4s-4K>LseBtto4h&.State Clearinghouse, the^aiblie-revTgw jieiioil can ha reiHIcefTro 20 days.
Thank you for allowing LSA the opportunity to submit this proposal for your proposed project. If you
require additional information, you may contact me at (760) 931-5471.
Sincerely,
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
Brianna Wood
Environmental Planner/Biologist
(3/10/2011) L:\PROPOSAL\ZZZ213Jl-Calavera Dam\ZZZ213Jl-SCOPE OF WORK.doc
RealQuest.com ® - Report Page 1 of 1
Property Detail Report
For Property Located At
, CARLSBAD, CA
CoreLogic
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Owner Information:
Owner Name:
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CITY OF CARLSBAD/PUBLIC AGENCY
Vesting Codes:
SAN DIEGO,
198.07/1
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Census Tract / Block:
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35.07 AC MIL IN LOTS L& LOT D
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//
168-040-02-00
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14-E3/1107-C4
0823
CARLSBAD
PC
Parking Type:
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I
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http://pro.realquest.com/jsp/report.jsp?&client=&action=confirm&type=getreport&record... 05/09/2011
Jase Warner
From: Scott Donnell
Sent: Tuesday, September 21, 2010 9:38 AM
To: Jase Warner
Subject: Weed/habitat removal at Lake Calavera Dam
Hi Jase,
I'm following up our meeting with IVIike Grim at Lake Calavera on Thursday, September 8. As we discussed, here is what I
believe is necessary to proceed with clearing vegetation from the dam:
1. Hire a biologist to survey the area of work and prepare a biology report. The biologist will determine the type
and amount of plants to be disturbed and will prepare a report. The report will describe the plants to be
affected and recommend guidelines for their removal. The report will also identify plants that are sensitive and
that are subject to mitigation. The report will also recommend mitigation ratios and permits needed from other
agencies, such as Fish and Game and Fish and Wildlife.
You may want to consider identifying in the biology report a maintenance schedule for removing plants from the
dam into the future; this would avoid having to analyze vegetation impacts every time you need to perform
maintenance. It may also be appropriate for the biologist to determine where mitigation for vegetation impacts
can occur. Determining where and how to mitigate for impacts to wetland plants may be a big challenge.
Mitigation may require the combination of wetland creation and enhancement, ideally in the Lake Calavera area
or at feast in the same watershed, and five years of monitoring and maintenance once mitigation work has
finished.
2. File a habitat management plan permit (HMP) with the Planning Department. This permit is needed when native
vegetation is disturbed.
3. The Planning Department will process the HMP. Because the vegetation clearing proposed will remove sensitive
native vegetation (such as the wetlands along the upstream side of the dam), we will need to process a
Mitigated Negative Declaration. The MND is an environmental document that analyzes a project's impacts on
the environment through what's known as an initial study. The impacts to analyze include not just those to
plants, but also air and water quality and a whole host of other potential impacts.
4. Once the MND has been drafted, it will be sent out for a minimum 30-day public review period. It is likely that
agencies, such as Fish and Wildlife, and the public will comment.
5. The Planning Department will respond to any comments received. Assuming no significant changes are needed
to the environmental document or project description based on comments received, the City Planner will
approve the HMP and MND. This approval is subject to appeal to the Planning Commission and City Council.
This is a general outline of the process. If you want a more formal, detailed analysis of how this project would be
processed and what issues there are likely to be, you have the option of filing an Early Assessment with the Planning
Department. An EA is an application available to city departments that provides an early analysis of a project and that
attempts to identify as much as possible any issues. You would file an EA before submitting the HMP.
Once the HMP application is filed, may take up to several months to process it. This amount of time is necessary because
of the effort involved in preparing the MND, coordinating with consultants who have prepared any supporting studies
(such as a biology report), accommodating the required public review, and responding to public comments.
You may have a consultant already available to you that can prepare the initial study component of the MND. This may
help speed the process as Planning staff will use the consultant-prepared work.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Art
CARLSBAD
Scott Donnell
Senior Planner
City of Carlsbad
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008-7314
www.ca risbadca .gov
P: 760.602.4618
F: 760.602.8559
E: scott.donnell(5)carlsbadca.gov
Jase Warner
From: Sherri Howard
Sent: Saturday, September 11,2010 5:22 PM
To: David Ahles
Cc: Jase Warner
Subject: FW: Vegetation along the Lake Calavera Dam
Dave,
Was the vegetation clearing covered in your permits for the work you did on the dam?
If not, we can permit the dam veg removal and the TAP easement maintenance together.
Sherri
From: Jessie Vinje Ovinje@cnlm.org]
Sent: Tuesday, September 07, 2010 8:43 AM
To: Jase Warner
Cc: Sherri Howard; mspiegelberg@cnlm.org
Subject: Vegetation along the Lake Calavera Dam
Hi Jase,
I just wanted to let you know that I spoke with my boss, Markus Spiegelberg on Friday (9/3/10) after we met. He agreed
with me in that the slopes on both sides of the dam are fine to clear as these areas are not comprised of native
vegetation communities. The slopes are primarily dominated by black mustard {Brassica nigra], a nonnative, invasive
species. The native willow trees along the dam slope and the areas located on the northeast corner of the dam and the
small strip of vegetation in between the dam and the spillway, should not be cleared until someone at the City has
reviewed the dam construction environmental documents to see if clearing of native, wetland vegetation is covered. If
clearing of this vegetation is not covered, someone will need to contact the Ca. Department of Fish and Game to find out
what would need to be accomplished in order to clear that vegetation.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Jessie Vinje
Preserve Manager, The Center for Natural Lands Management
760-294-8439
www.cnlm.org
^ CITY OF
^ CARLSBAD
Memorandum
September 1, 2011
To: Sherri Howard, Associate Engineer
From: ^Wf^ Barbara Kennedy, Associate Planner
Via Ikl-^Dave de Cordova, Principal Planner
Re: ' EA 11-11 - Calavera Dam Long Term Maintenance
Thank you for submitting an Early Assessment for a removal of vegetation around the Lake Calavera
dam spillway and including annual maintenance activities at the project site located at the southwestern
end of Lake Calavera. The project site encompasses approximately 3 acres of disturbed area.
In response to your application, the Planning Division has prepared this comment letter. Please note
that the purpose of an Early Assessment is to provide you with direction and comments on the overall
concept of your project. This Early Assessment does not represent an in-depth analvsis of your
proiect. It Is intended to give vou feedback on critical issues based upon the information provided in
your submittal. This review is based upon the plans, policies, and standards in effect as of the date of
this review. Please be aware that at the time of a formal application submittal, new plans, policies,
and standards may be in effect and additional issues of concern mav be raised through a more specific
and detailed review.
Planning:
General
1. General Plan and zoning designations for the property are as follows:
a. General Plan: Open Space (OS)
b. Zoning: Open Space (OS)
2. The project requires the following permits:
a. No discretionary permits are required for the project.
b. Carlsbad Municipal Code Section 21.210.070 states that "An HMP permit shall be
required for any development project which directly or indirectly impacts natural
habitat. . ." and Section 21.210.020.A.4 defines a "development project" as activities
". . . which require a discretionary or ministerial permit , entitlement or approval
listed under Titles 15,18, 20 or 21 of the municipal code." Based on the initial review
of the project, it does not appear that the proposed scope of work would meet this
definition. Therefore, an HMP permit would not be required.
3. Please submit a biological impact assessment report.
4. Please prepare an EIA Part II as part of the CEQA review process.
Community & Economic Development
1635 Faraday Ave. I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 760-602-2710 I 760-602-8560 fax
EA 11-11 - Calavera Dai^j^ngTerm Maintenance
September 1, 2011
Page 2
Land Development Engineering:
1. Mechanical removal of vegetation can result in some soil disturbance. Provide a Tier 1 SWPPP.
All necessary application forms and submittal requirements are available at the Planning counter
located in the Faraday Building at 1635 Faraday Avenue or online at www.carlsbadca.gov. You may also
access the General Plan Land Use Element and the Zoning Ordinance online at the website address
shown; select Department Listing; select Planning Home Page. Please review all information carefully
before submitting.
If you would like to schedule a meeting to discuss this letter with the commenting departments, please
contact Barbara Kennedy at the number below. You may also contact each department individually as
follows:
• Planning Division comments: Barbara Kennedy, Associate Planner, at (760) 602-4626.
• Land Development Engineering comments: Tecia Levy, Associate Engineer, at (760) 602-2733.
DD:BK:bd
Don Neu, City Planner
Scott Donnell, Senior Planner
Bill Plummer, Deputy City Engineer
Tecia Levy, Associate Engineer
File Copy
Data Entry
CITY OF CARLSBAD
REVIEW AND COIVIIVIENT MEMO
DATE: AUGUST 17. 2011
PROJEa NO(S): EA 11-11 REVIEW NO: 1
PROJECT TITLE: CALAVERA DAM LONG TERM MAINTENANCE
APPUCANT: CITY OF CARLSBAD
TO:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Land Development Engineering-Terie Rowley
Police Department - J. Sasway
Fire Department - Greg Ryan
Building Department - Will Foss
Recreation - Mark Steyaert
Public Works Department (Streets) - Nick Roque
Water/Sewer District
Landscape Plancheck Consultant PELA
School District
North County Transit District - Planning Department
Sempra Energy - Land Management
Caltrans (Send anything adjacent to 1-5)
Parks/Trails - Liz Ketabian
•ALWAYS SEND EXHIBITS
FROM: PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Please review and submit written comments and/or conditions to the PLANNING TRACKING DESK
in the Planning Department at 1635 Faraday Avenue, by 8/31/11. If you have "No Comments,"
please so state. If vou determine that there are items that need to be submitted to deem the
application "complete" for processing, please immediately contact the applicant and/or their
representatives (via phone or e-mail) to let them know.
Thank you . f i ^
COMMENTS: Mlg^cKacyyic^tl ftiHovai p| Uty--W-U*w c&Jt\ reVt^ll \^ S?V»VL
coil dC^W-^o^^- prtir^ Tier 1 -SvtlPPP-
SignaiuFe Date
PLANS ATTACHED
Review & Comment 03/10 fj^C
Pre-Project Consultation Monthly Meeting
July 12. 2011
Calavera Dam Long Term Maintenance
NAME AGENCY/COMPANY PHONE EMAIL
1 Darren Bradford CDFG (858) 467^223 DBradford@dfg.ca.gov
2
3
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4 -or - • \ ' J f • t,'. ^-
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5 C 0 f (r"
6 LSA l-bO ^31- 54 hr\ avma.. VNJ u odCit., I Sa -ass. cc . m
7 ^^0 ^151 5t 7/
8
S
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10
11
12
13
14
15
Coastal Califomia Gnatcatcher Observations-2011
Lake Calavera Preserve-Carlsbad, California
200 100 0 200 Feet
Center for Natural Lands Management
LSA
I
FEET
LEGEND
I I Study Area
Vegetation Communities
Bire Ground (0.680 ac)
Diegan Coastal Sage Scnib (0.040 ac)
Developed (0699 ac)
SOLTRCE Atrial-CHy of CvIsM (2010)
R.\HCRII02 GIS\\«geMioiuiix4 (6 17,2011)
FIGURE 3
Disturbed (1.289 ae)
Freshwater Marsh (0.246 ac)
Open Water (0.011 ac)
Southem W.How Scrub (0.II0ac) Calavera Dam
Long- Term Annual Maintenance Project
Vegetation
'>5
1976 LSA 2011
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
703 PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD, SUITE 260
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA 9201 1
760.93 1.547 I TEL
760.91 8.2458 FAX
BERKELEY
FORT COLLINS
FRESNO
IRVINE
PALM SPRINGS
POINT RICHMOND
RIVERSIDE
ROCKLIN
SAN LUIS OBISPO
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
MEMORANDUM
July 1,2011
Sherri Howard
City of Carlsbad
Elizabeth Davidson, M.A., RPA
Senior Cultural Resources Manager/Archaeologist
LSA Associates, Inc.
Calavara Dam Long-Term Annual Maintenance Cuhural Resources Constraints
Analysis (LSA Project No. HCRl 102)
INTRODUCTION
This constraints analysis presents the results of archaeological research completed for the Calavara
Dam Long-Term Maintenance Project. The purpose of this study was to gather infonnation about the
archaeological sites that may be affected by the proposed maintenance project. To accomplish this, a
records search was completed on June 20, 2011 at the South Coastal Information Center (SCIC) to
identify cultural resources within a half-mile of the project site.
Project Description
The project site is located at the southwestem end of Lake Calavera, off Tamarack Avenue in the City
of Carlsbad (Figure 1. Project Location Map). The project entails removal of vegetative material from
the north (lakeside or upstream side) and south (downstream side) faces of the dam, spillway, and
outlet structure in response to an order from the Califomia Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD). The
total area to be maintained includes approximately 3 acres, 2.8 acres of which has been maintained in
the past and is therefore disturbed. Vegetation (including some riparian habitat) would be removed
using any or all of the following methods: by hand, application of herbicide, and mechanically (using
a Gradall excavator [or equivalent] from the top of the dam). AU mechanical equipment and tmcks
used during maintenance activities would be staged in paved or developed areas on the top of the dam
or on the access road where the substrate is either bare ground or paved. No ground disturbance (i.e.,
grading) is proposed as part of the project.
Initial maintenance would include removal of some trees and shmbs as well as low-growing
vegetation. The City of Carlsbad will conduct maintenance outside of nesting bird season (i.e.,
outside of Febmary 15 through September 15). Installation of temporary exclusionary fencing would
ensure that the limits of constmction are clearly defined prior to bmsh-clearing activities and clearly
visible to personnel on foot and equipment operators. Constmction personnel shall strictly limit their
activities and vehicles to the proposed project constmction areas, approved staging areas, and routes
of travel. The lake level would be lowered by approximately 3 feet in order for submerged vegetation
to be removed. No permits or permissions are required from the DSOD for the Carlsbad Municipal
Water District (CMWD) to perform maintenance (including lowering and raising lake levels as
(7/1/2011) P;\HCR1102-Calavera Dam Long Term Maintenance\Cultural\Report\Arch Memo.doc
P L A .N M G E.NVIRO.MHENTAL SCIENCES
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
required for maintenance activities). Maintenance activities will occur in perpetuity, for a period of
approximately 5 days per annual maintenance event.
This report has been prepared pursuant to the Califomia Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This
report has been prepared for use by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), the Regional
Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), and the Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG),
and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) as part of their reviews of applications for
permit authorization, if necessary. The findings and conclusions presented in this report represent the
professional opinion of LSA.
Cultural Setting
San Diego County archaeological investigations indicate humans have inhabited the area for at least
10,000 years. Malcolm Rogers was the first to develop a cultural chronology of the region. In general,
they can be divided into five consecutive periods: Paleoindian, Archaic, Late Prehistoric,
Ethnohistoric, and Historic (Bull 1983; Ezell 1987; Moriarty 1966; Warren et al. 1993).
The earliest sites in San Diego County are identified as the Paleoindian period (9,000 to 8,000 YBP
[years before present]), and include the San Dieguito, La Jolla and Pauma complex. Most of these
sites are located around inland dry lakes, on old terrace deposits in the Califomia desert, and on or
near the coast on mesas or terraces. The artifacts associated with this period are heavily patinated
felsite tools primarily consisting of scrapers, scraper planes, choppers, large blades, and large
projectile points.
Around 8,000 years ago, changes in technology begin to appear in the archaeological record. During
the Early Archaic period, there is an increase in the use of grinding and seed processing technology
and a change in mortuary practices, indicating population movements or intemal change (Moratto
1984). There is a marked increase in the exploitation of plant and animal resources inland and on the
coast. Artifacts associated with this period include an increase of Pinto and Elko series projectile
points, large bifaces, manos, metates, and core tools.
The Late Prehistoric period is characterized by a series of dramatic technological changes indicating
that around 2,000 YBP, people fi^om the Colorado River area migrated to the Southem Califomia
region. This period is characterized by the appearance of smaller projectile points, ceramics,
permanent bedrock milling sites, and cremation burials. There also appears to be an increase in the
establishment of permanent or semi-permanent seasonal villages indicating a shift to inland plant food
collection and processing.
The Ethnohistoric period occurred shortly before Europeans colonized Southem Califomia.
Documentation by the Spanish and the material culture left by the native people indicate that, at the time
of contact, there were four distinct native groups in the area: Luisefio, Diegueno, Cupeno, and the Cahuilla
(Kroeber 1925). During this period, the Native American populations dramatically decreased and were
quickly assimilated into the mission system. The project area is located within the Kumeyaay territory.
The Historic period in San Diego County is generally divided into three politically defined periods:
Spanish, Mexican, and American periods. The Spanish colonists first settled the Southem Califomia
region in A.D. 1769 and established military and religious institutions along the coast. In 1821,
(7/1/2011) P:\HCR1102-Calavera Dam Long Term Maintenance\Cultural\Report\Arch Memo.doc 2
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
Mexico won its independence from Spain and Califomia came under Mexican mle. By 1834, the
Spanish missions had been secularized and large tracts of land, or ranchos were granted to Mexican
citizens. Mexican mle ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hildalgo in 1848 when Alta
Califomia was ceded to the United States.
The Carlsbad area became the focus of development in San Diego in the late 1800s when a railroad
connection to the San Diego Area resulted in a population boom in Southem Califomia. The City of
Carlsbad first began as a train stop and tourist attraction when a mineral spring was discovered in
1883 by John Frazier. From the 1920s and into the present, Carlsbad has continued to boom with
tourism, agriculture and floriculture.
METHODS
Archival research was completed at the SCIC and included a site records search, literature review,
and an examination of historic maps within a half-mile of the project site.
RESULTS
Research
Eighteen documented archaeological investigations have taken place within a half-mile radius of the
project site. Most of the investigations date between 1980 and 2005 and indicate there was a moderate
amount of both historic and prehistoric activity within the project area. Table A summarizes the
investigations within a half-mile radius of the project.
Table A: Summary of Previous Studies
Author Report Title Date
Bull An Archaeological Reconnaissance of the Lake Calavara Hills Plan Area 1977
CoUett and
Cheever
Significance Assessment of Three Cultural Resource Sites Within the College
Boulevard Reach B Altemative 1 and Reach C Alignments
2001
CoUett and
Cheever
Significance Assessment of Six Cultural Resource Sites Within the College
Boulevard Reach Altemative 1, Carlsbad, Califomia
2001
Corum Negative Archaeological Survey Report 1 l-SD-76, P.M.RO/R2.9 11222-159021 1993
ERCE Testing and Data Recovery for Late Period Occupation Sites CA-SDI-635 and
CA-SDI-636 Calavara Heights, Carlsbad, Califomia
1991
ERCE Cultural Resource Testing Programs for SDI-4922, 1923, 1925, 4927, 11941,
11943, 12125, Calavera Lake, Carlsbad, CaUfomia
1991
Gallegos Cultural Resource Testing Program for SDI-635 Calavara Heights Village,
Carlsbad, Califomia
1991
Gallegos and
Carrico
Cultural Resource Survey and Assessment for the South Coast Asphalt Products
Company Carlsbad, Califomia
1984
Gallegos and
Huey
Cultural Resource Testing Program for SDI-4922,4923,4925, 11941, 11942,
11943, and 12125, Calavara Lake, Carlsbad Califomia
1991
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
Table A: Summary of Previous Studies
Author Report Title Date
Gallegos and
Huey
Testing and Data Recovery for Late Period Occupation Sites CA-SDI-636,
Calavara Heights, Carlsbad, Califomia
1991
Gallegos and
Pigniolo
Cultural Resource Survey of the Mar Vista OVl Trunk Sewer, Vista, CaUfomia 1987
Gallegos Pigniolo,
MitcheU
Cultural Resource Testing Program for SDIO-635 and SDI636 Calavara Heights
Village, Carlsbad, Califomia
1990
Ghabahlain Historic Resources Inventory and Evaluation Report for the Lake Calavara
Remedial Improvements Project, Carlsbad
2005
Guerrro and
Gallegos
City of Carlsbad Water and Sewer Master Plans Cultural Resource Background
Study, City of Carlsbad, Califomia
2003
Hanna Addendum to the Cultural Resource Survey Report for Carlsbad Highlands, City
of Carlsbad, San Diego County, CaUfomia
1981
Hector An Archaeological and Historical Survey of Robertson Ranch, Carlsbad, CA 1985
Kyle Cultural Resource Constraints Analysis for the Lake Calavara Trails Project, City
of Carlsbad, Califomia
2005
Seeman Draft Environmental Impact Report Revised Parks and Recreation Element,
Carlsbad, Califomia
1982
Smith and
Rosenberg
Results of a Cultural Resources Mitigation and Monitoring Program for Robertson
Ranch: Archaic and Late Prehistoric Camps Near the Agua Hedionda Lagoon
2008
Wade Archaeological Evaluations at Calavara Hills SDI-5416, Archaeological Testing at
SDI-12470 and SDl-12471 Carlsbad, Califomia
1992
A total of nine sites (Table B) are recorded within a half-mile radius of the project site. Of these, six
are prehistoric sites and three are historic. Two of the prehistoric sites, CA-SDI-5433 and CA-SDI-
5437, are isolated artifacts although recorded by Bull, Hatley and the SCIC as sites. The prehistoric
sites consist mainly of lithic, shell, and groundstone scatters located around the Calavara Lake
Reservoir. The closest prehistoric site, CA-SDI-636, is located approximately one-quarter of a mile
northwest of the project boundary. This site consists of a dense shell scatter, with lithics, pottery, and
groundstone. One historic site, P-37-030251 the Lake Calavara Dam, is located within the project
site.
Table B: Cultural Resources within a One-Mile Radius of the Project APE
Site Number Site Type Recorder
CA-SDI-636 Shell, Lithic and Groundstone Scatter Hatley and Polan (1977)
CA-SDI-5433 Isolated Pot Sherd BuU and Hatley (1977)
CA-SDI-5437 Isolated flake BuU and Hatley (1977)
CA-SDI-5438 Rock Feature (Caim) BuU and Hatley (1977)
CA-SDI-5793H Historic Trail to Mission San Luis Rey Hatley (1978)
CA-SDI-9917 Shell Scatter Thesken(1984)
CA-SDI-12145 Lithic Scatter Huey and Baker (1991)
P-37-030251 Lake Calavara Dam Ghabhlain (2005)
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC,
P-37-030251/Lake Calavara Dam
Lake Calavara Dam was first recorded as a historic resource in 2005 by ASM and Affiliates. The dam
was constmcted between 1940 and 1942 to create Lake Calavara Reservoir, part of the Carlsbad
municipal water system. The dam is 65 feet high and 490 feet long and is constmcted of compacted
earth fill with rock blanket faces on both sides of the dam. The bottom of the reservoir is composed of
decomposing granite. A concrete tower controls the outflow of the water from the reservoir but is in
disrepair and no longer functions. The dam is not lined or covered. The spillway for the dam is
located on the westem end and extends approximately 150 feet northward.
The dam's main period of use was between 1942 and the early 1960s. It was built to provide
additional storage for water pumped from the San Luis Rey River in response to a population increase
during World War II. In the early 1960s the treatment plant was dismantled and abandoned leaving
the reservoir to provide only seasonal storage of water. The water level is now controlled by gravity
flow through an open port located on the upper part of the dam.
ASM and Affiliates evaluated the dam for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP)
and did not consider it a significant historic resource because it does not meet the NRHP eligibility
requirements. Based on ASM's evaluation, "to be eligible for listing on the National Register, a
historic resource such as a dam or flume must have demonstrable importance directly related to
important historic events or trends with emphasis on the effects the stmcture had on social, economic,
commercial, and industrial developments locally, regionally or nationally" (Ghablain 2005). Based on
the evaluation, the constmction of Lake Calavara Dam did not significantly alter the existing water
storage and distribution system, is not the earliest or largest reservoir in the area, and was not a major
component in the development of the water distribution system in San Diego County. Based on this
assessment. Lake Calavara Dam and its associated stmctures are not eligible for listing on the
National or Califomia Registers.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The project entails removal of vegetative material from the north (lakeside or upstream side) and
south (downstream side) faces of the dam, spillway, and outlet stmcture in response to an order from
the DSOD. The project consists of maintenance that would include removal of some trees and shrubs
as well as low-growing vegetation, but otherwise no ground disturbance (i.e., grading) is proposed as
part of the project. All the mechanical equipment and tmcks used during maintenance activities would
be staged in paved or developed areas on the top of the dam or on the access road where the substrate
is either bare ground or paved. All of the activities will be taking place within the existing dam
stmcture and no grading is proposed; therefore, no monitoring or further work related to cultural
resources is recommended. However, if grading or other major ground-disturbing activities were to
take place, LSA recommends that an updated survey should be completed prior to these activities and
ASM's NRHP recommendations be reviewed by USACE.
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
REFERENCES
Bull, Charles
1983 Shaking the Foundations: The Evidence for San Diego Prehistory. Casual Papers, Cultural
Resource Management Center, Department of Anthropology, San Diego State University.
Bull, Charles and M.J. Hatley
1977 Site Form for CA-SDI-5433-5440. Site Form on file at South Coastal Infomiation Center,
San Diego State University, San Diego, Califomia.
Ezell, Paul
1987 The Harris Site—An Atypical San Dieguito Site or am I beating a Dead Horse? In San
Dieguito-La Jolla: Chronology and Controversy, edited by Dennis Gallegos, pp. 15-22.
San Diego Archaeological Society Research Paper No. 1. San Diego.
Ghablain, Sinead Ni
2005 Site Form for P-37-030251. Site Form on file at South Coastal Information Center, San
Diego State University, San Diego, Califomia.
Kroeber, A.L.
1925 The Handbook of Indians of California. Biu-eau of American Ethnology Bulletin 78.
Smithsonian Institute, Washington. Reprinted in 1976 by Drover Publications, New York.
Moriarty, James R., Ill
1966 Culture Phase Divisions Suggested by Typological Change Coordinated with
Stratigraphically Controlled Radiocarbon Dating at San Diego. Canadian Journal of
Anthropology.
Warren, Claude N., Gretchen Siegler, and Frank Dittmer
1993 Paleoindian and Early Archaic Periods. An Historic Properties Background Study for the
City of San Diego Clean Water Program.
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