HomeMy WebLinkAboutR 2025-009 RESOLUTION NO. 2025-009
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARROYO GRANDE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ("MOU")
WITH THE LAND CONSERVANCY OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO
COUNTY ("LAND CONSERVANCY") TO CONTRIBUTE FUNDS
TO SUPPORT LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE OF THE BLACK
LAKE ECOLOGICAL AREA AS ENVIRONMENTAL
MITIGATION FOR THE TRAFFIC WAY BRIDGE
REPLACEMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Traffic Way Bridge ("Bridge") spans Arroyo Grande Creek allowing
Traffic Way to connect to West Branch Street. Traffic Way is an arterial roadway that
conveys approximately 11,500 vehicles per day. The Bridge is a reinforced concrete
structure supported by abutments on each end of the Bridge and concrete piles along
the span; and
WHEREAS, in 2006, Caltrans designated this Bridge as "scour critical" meaning that
the supporting members of the Bridge are compromised due to erosion of
surrounding soil. In 2016 the Bridge was reinspected, and that inspection found signs
of deck cracking, failed expansion joints, spelling concrete, concrete abrasion, and
creek channel erosion. In March 2018, it was determined that not only is scour an
issue, but that the foundation is vulnerable in bearing capacity; and
WHEREAS, Caltrans determined the Bridge needed replacing and placed it in the
federal Highway Bridge Program (HBP). HBP provides funding for bridge repair and
replacement. It provides 88.53% of federal funding and a required local match of
11.47%; and
WHEREAS, The City awarded a construction contract to replace the bridge to Granite
Construction Company on December 10, 2024, and this project is commonly referred
to as the Traffic Way Bridge Replacement Project (the "Project"); and
WHEREAS At that time, it was noted that the City had not yet acquired a Regional
Water Quality Control Board ("Regional Board") 401 Water Quality Certification
permit ("401 permit") for this project due to complications meeting off-site mitigation
requirements, and this permit is needed prior to beginning construction in Arroyo
Grande Creek, which is expected in June 2025; and
WHEREAS, After failing to find appropriate City land to meet 401 permit regulatory
requirements, and finding no projects on Arroyo Grande Creek that meet the
Regional Board's requirements for timeliness and relevance, City staff found the
opportunity to contribute funds to long-term maintenance of wetland plantings in the
Blake Lake Ecological Area in southern San Luis Obispo County; and
65501 00015\42788974.6
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-009
PAGE 2
WHEREAS, initial conversations with the Regional Board indicate that they are likely
to approve this solution in satisfaction of the mitigation requirements, and Land
Conservancy has similarly had conversations with the State Coastal Conservancy
indicating that entity will approve this arrangement; and
WHEREAS, execution of an MOU with the Land Conservancy is the most feasible
mechanism to satisfy the Regional Board's 401 permit requirement; and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Arroyo
Grande, as follows:
1. RECITALS. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated
herein.
2. MOU EXECUTION. The City Council authorizes the City Manager to execute
a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), in substantially the same form as
that provided in Exhibit "A", with the Land Conservancy to contribute funds to
support long-term maintenance of the black lake ecological area as
environmental mitigation for the Traffic Way Bridge Replacement Project,
subject to any additional negotiated changes requested by the Land
Conservancy or Regional Board, as approved by the City Manager in
consultation with the City Attorney, and provided that the Regional Board
confirms in writing that the MOU with the Land Conservancy will satisfy the
mitigation requirement necessary to obtain the 401 permit required for the
Traffic Way Bridge Replacement Project.
3. CEQA. On September 26, 2023 , the City Council adopted a Mitigated
Negative Declaration (MND)for the Project (SCH No. 2022060452). The MND
analyzed the environmental impacts of the Project in compliance with the
California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"). The adoption of this
Resolution occurs pursuant to and in conformity with the analysis contained
within the previously adopted MND. None of the conditions requiring
subsequent environmental review called out in Public Resources Code section
21166 or State CEQA Guidelines section 15162 are present. Approval of this
Resolution will not directly or indirectly cause any new physical impacts to the
environment than what was previously analyzed in the prior MND.
Specifically, the approval of this Resolution is (i) not a substantial change
proposed in the Project that will require major revisions to the previous MND
65501 00015\42788974.6
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-009
PAGE 3
due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial
increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects; (ii) not a
substantial change with respect to the circumstances under which the Project
is undertaken which will require major revisions of the previous MND due to
the involvement of new significant effects or a substantial increase in the
severity of previously identified significant impacts; and (iii) is not new
information of substantial importance that shows the Project will have one or
more significant impacts not discussed in the previous MND; that significant
impacts previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown in
the previous MND; that mitigation measures previously found to be infeasible
would in fact be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more
significant effects, but the City declined to adopt such measures; or that
mitigation measures considerably different from those previously analyzed
would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment,
but which the City declined to adopt. Thus, none of the conditions requiring
subsequent environmental review called out in Public Resources Code section
21166 or State CEQA Guidelines section 15162 are present, and no further
environmental review is required.
City Council directs City staff to cause a Notice of Determination to be filed
and posted with the County Clerk and State Clearinghouse within five working
days of the adoption of this Resolution.
4. CUSTODIAN OF RECORDS. The documents and materials associated with
this Resolution that constitute the record of proceedings on which these
findings are based are located at City Hall, 300 E Branch St Arroyo Grande
CA 93420.
On motion of Council Member Guthrie, seconded by Council Member Loe, and on
the following roll call vote, to wit:
AYES: Council Members Guthrie, Loe, Maraviglia, Mayor Pro Tem Secrest,
and Mayor Ray Russom
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
The foregoing Resolution was passed and adopted this 11th day of February 2025.
65501 00015\42788974.6
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-009
PAGE 4
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CAREN RAY ' SSOM, MAYOR
ATTEST:
J SSICA MATSON, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
MATTHEW DOWNING, CITY MANAGER
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
ISAAC ROSEN, CITY ATTORNEY
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RESOLUTION NO. 2025-009
PAGE 5
Exhibit "A"
65501 00015\42788974.6
EXHIBIT A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE LAND CONSERVANCY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY AND
THE CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE
This Agreement is made this day of 2025, between The Land Conservancy of
San Luis Obispo County ("Conservancy"), a California non-profit corporation located in the
County of San Luis Obispo, and the City of Arroyo Grande ("City"), a municipal corporation
located in the County of San Luis Obispo. The Conservancy and the City may hereinafter
be referred to as the "Parties."
WHEREAS, the City seeks to construct the replacement of the Traffic Way Bridge in the
City of Arroyo Grande, which spans Arroyo Grande Creek, connecting Traffic Way to West
Branch Street, as part of the Traffic Way Bridge Replacement Project; and
WHEREAS, in order to engage in such construction, the City must obtain a 401 Water
Quality Certification permit ("401 permit") from the Regional Water Quality Control Board (the
"Regional Board"); and
WHEREAS, the Regional Board requires 0.195 acres of land in the City be improved with
plantings or other improvements to offset the impacts of the Traffic Way Bridge Replacement
Project, in satisfaction of the mitigation requirements of the 401 permit; and
WHEREAS, there is currently insufficient public land available in the City to provide the
required mitigation for the Regional Board to issue a 401 Certification; and
WHEREAS, the Conservancy owns land known as the Black Lake Ecological Area
(APN 075-261-006)which is in the County of San Luis Obispo; and
WHEREAS, the Conservancy is conducting a project in the Black Lake Ecological Area for
which a restricted fund has been set up for long-term maintenance of the ecological site, as
more particularly described in Exhibit A (the "Black Lake Project"); and
WHEREAS, the Black Lake Project received a 401 permit from the Regional Board; and
WHEREAS, the restoration efforts of the Black Lake Project protect water quality and
improve habitat conditions, consistent with the regulatory requirements necessary to obtain a
401 permit; and
WHEREAS, the Regional Board may allow the City to provide funds into a restricted
account for the Black Lake Project to satisfy the mitigation requirement, in order to obtain a 401
permit for the Traffic Way Bridge Project; and
WHEREAS, the Conservancy desires to receive these funds to aid in the Black Lake
Project, and the City desires to provide such funds in order to satisfy the mitigation
requirements of the 401 permit issued by the Regional Board.
WHEREAS, these funds are for payment in-lieu of permittee-responsible
compensatory mitigation for a public benefit project, the Traffic Way Bridge Replacement
Project, as a mechanism for meeting Regional Board Section 401 Water Quality Certification
permitting requirements.
PAGE 2
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties both recognize and agree:
1. The recitals set forth in this MOU are by this reference, incorporated into and deemed
a part of this MOU.
2. The City agrees to provide a check to the Conservancy in the amount of
$100,000.00 (the "City Funds") to be deposited into a restricted fund for use on
the property known as Black Lake Ecological Area. The City Funds shall be used
only for aquatic feature maintenance and monitoring, and shall not be used for
upland planting.
3. Prior to disbursement of funds, two events must occur: (a) The Conservancy must
provide the City and the Regional Board the final grant award document stating the
final requirements of the United State Fish and Wildlife Service award that is
applicable to the Black Lake Project, and (b) the Regional Board must provide written
confirmation to both Parties that, once the City deposits the funds into the Black Lake
Ecological Area restricted account,the City will have satisfied the regulatory requirements
of the Regional Board necessary to obtain a 401 permit.
4. The Conservancy will provide a detailed accounting of said restricted funds as to the
usage of the City Funds upon written request of the City.
5. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Conservancy shall defend (with counsel of
City's choosing), indemnify and hold the City, its officials, officers, employees, volunteers,
and agents free and harmless from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, costs,
expenses, liability, loss, damage or injury of any kind, in law or equity, to property or
persons, including wrongful death, in any manner arising out of, pertaining to, or incident
to any acts, errors or omissions, or willful misconduct of the Conservancy, its officials,
officers, employees, subcontractors, consultants or agents in connection with the use of
the City funds deposited into the Conservancy's restricted account for the Black Lake
Project, the Black Lake Project or this MOU, including without limitation the payment of
all damages, expert witness fees and attorney's fees and other related costs and
expenses except such loss or damage caused by the sole negligence or willful
misconduct of the City. The Conservancy's obligation to indemnify shall survive
expiration or termination of this Agreement and shall not be restricted to insurance
proceeds, if any, received by the Conservancy, the City, its officials, officers, employees,
agents, or volunteers.
6. This MOU contains the entire understanding between the Parties with respect to its
subject matter and supersedes all prior agreements, oral or written, and all prior
contemporaneous discussions or negotiations between the Parties.
7. The rights and obligations set forth herein are intended exclusively for the benefit of the
Parties and shall not be construed to convey any rights or remedies to any third party.
8. This MOU shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State
of California. If any term of this MOU shall be held or made invalid by a court decision,
statute or rule, or shall be otherwise rendered invalid, the remaining portion or portions
shall be considered severable and not affected by such determination.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this agreement on the day and
year first above written.
CITY: CONSERVANCY:
City of Arroyo Grande, The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo
a municipal corporation County, a California non-profit corporation
By: By:
Name: Name:
Title: Title:
EXHIBIT "A"
Black Lake Project Description
Black Lake Ecological Area Habitat Restoration Project
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Application
Submitted by the California State Coastal Conservancy
June 26, 2020
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
PROJECT SUMMARY
The California State Coastal Conservancy(SCC)is requesting$584,909 from the National Coastal
Wetlands Conservation Grant Program (NCWC) to restore 45 acres of coastal wetlands and
adjacent uplands within the 160-acre Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area (BLEA), located near
the community of Nipomo, in southern San Luis Obispo County, California. The project goal is to
restore several different habitat types that function collectively as a dynamic, coastal dune
ecosystem to benefit and aid in the recovery of sensitive, endemic and federal and state listed
species. Implementation of this project will restore and enhance the following communities:
• 6.94 acres of freshwater pond(Black Lake);
• 4.78 acres of freshwater emergent wetland(marsh);
• 12.24 acres of freshwater forested/shrub wetland(riparian woodland/scrub); and
• 21.04 acres of coastal dune scrub.
The wetland and upland habitats within the BLEA are in urgent need of restoration due to the
compounding effects of increased regional groundwater pumping, decreased subsurface recharge,
increased sedimentation, and rapid proliferation of several non-native, invasive species. Without
implementation of the proposed restoration efforts, conditions within the site will continue to
decline and reach a point where the trajectory can no longer be arrested and reversed. Invasive
species are quickly decimating most of the remaining stands of coastal dune scrub and overgrown
hydrophytes will eventually overtake the wetlands, further increasing infill from sedimentation.
This project will directly benefit several listed and sensitive species including: California red-
legged frog (Rana draytonii), western pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata), La Graciosa thistle
(Cirsium scariosum var. loncholepis), marsh sandwort (Arenaria paludicola), Nipomo lupine
(Lupinus nipomensis), legless lizard (Anniella pulchra), coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma
blainvillii), and monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus).
This project will remove built-up sediments and overgrown tule/bulrush (Bolboshoenus spp. and
Schoenoplectus spp.), cattail (Typha spp.), and poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) within and
around the lake and marsh. Restoration efforts associated with these wetland features includes
outplanting of marsh sandwort and La Graciosa thistle,which once occurred onsite but has become
extirpated. These activities also include installation of habitat features and other elements to
increase western pond turtle and California red-legged frog basking,breeding,rearing,and aquatic
dispersal habitat. The proposed upland restoration efforts include removal of invasive veldt grass
(Ehrharta calycina), Saharan mustard (Brassica tournefortii), hedgerow eucalyptus (Eucalyptus
globulus), and Italian thistle(Carduus pycnocephalus)to rehabilitate the native coastal dune scrub
habitat. This work will benefit the resident overwintering monarch population, coast horned
lizards, and legless lizards. Coastal dune scrub restoration accomplished by the project will also
create habitat to expand the successful Nipomo lupine re-introduction program within BLEA. This
project will result in a highly functioning and resilient dune ecosystem that are critical to
supporting this unique assemblage of rare and listed species in the face of climate change and
surrounding future development.
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
PROJECT STATEMENT
Background: Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area (BLEA) was selected as one of six funded
Dune Protected Areas (DPA) by the Dunes Collaborative. The Dunes Collaborative is a
partnership between federal, state, private, and non-profit organizations committed to restoration
of the entire 20,000-acre Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Complex (GNDC). A variety of sensitive
vegetation types occur in BLEA, including: active coastal dunes; central foredunes; central dune
scrub; Central Coast arroyo willow riparian; and coastal freshwater marsh communities (Figures
3, 6-14). BLEA supports a large migratory colony of western monarch butterfly and provides
important roosting habitat for a variety of raptors and bats. Several special status species
documented within BLEA include the following:
• federal threatened and state species of special concern: California red-legged frog;
• federal and state endangered species: marsh sandwort and Nipomo lupine;
• federal endangered and state threatened: La Graciosa thistle; and
• state species of special concern: western pond turtle and legless lizard.
For more information see Criteria 5 —"Conservation of threatened and endangered species".
Project Location: GNDC is an 18-mile long coastal dune system located along California's
Central Coast. It is one of the largest coastal dune landscapes on the west coast of North America
and provides important habitat for a variety wildlife species. In 1974, GNDC was designated a
National Natural Landmark in recognition of its unique natural heritage (USFWS 2016). BLEA is
a 160-acre property within the GNDC that is owned and managed by the Land Conservancy of
San Luis Obispo County(LCSLO). The project is located in the eastern half of the property; west
of State Route 1,near the community of Nipomo, in southern San Luis Obispo County(Figures 1-
2; Latitude 35.057689, Longitude—120.603411). The sole purpose of the BLEA is to preserve its
unique habitats and protect the rare and special status species that utilize it. It is named for the
perennial, freshwater terminal lake onsite that is fed by flows from the lush, incised Black Lake
Canyon drainage system. Water brought down through Black Lake Canyon provides important
breeding and watering sites for many vertebrate species. It is one of the few migratory corridors
that connects the GNDC with other adjacent wildlands.
Project Need: BLEA is one of the most important conservation areas within the GNDC as Black
Lake is one of the few remaining freshwater coastal dune lakes in the state that has perennial water.
All of the wetland features throughout GNDC, including Black Lake, are under stress from a
lowering groundwater table and the future effects of climate change. Groundwater pumping has
increased substantially over the last decade due to expanding agriculture and extensive suburban
and residential development.As a result,subsurface recharge has decreased and surface flows have
increased, causing increased sedimentation,biostimulation, and overgrowth of denser hydrophytic
vegetation. Simultaneously, one of the most pervasive threats throughout the dunes are impacts
from non-native invasive species. Regional infestation and the rapid proliferation of invasive plant
species, such as veldt grass, are causing a type conversion of coastal dune scrub habitats to non-
2
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
native monocultures that are prematurely stabilizing this once dynamic and active dune system.
This dynamic wind activity is also responsible for excavation, scour and other movements
necessary to maintain aquatic features. Premature stabilization of the dunes disrupts the natural
dune ecosystem functions and geomorphic processes, resulting in a cascade of detrimental effects
across the landscape. Implementation of this project will benefit several listed species and will
enable LCSLO to better manage BLEA. Without restoration and management, the suite of rare
species associated with the site will continue to decline. These funds will allow the organization
to accomplish the totality of the proposed restoration and approved by the Dunes Collaborative.
Objectives:
1. Enhance 5.34 acres and restore 1 acre of coastal wetlands by removing bulrush and cattail, and
diversifying wetland vegetation and habitat types;
2. Enhance 17.02 acres of freshwater emergent and forested/shrub wetlands, including one acre
of La Graciosa thistle habitat;
3. Re-contour 0.36 acres of coastal freshwater marsh to create marsh sandwort habitat;
4. Outplant 250 La Graciosa thistle seedlings and 350 marsh sandwort plants;
5. Remove up to 1.5 acres of dying, hedgerow eucalyptus to restore coastal dune scrub habitat;
6. Restore 13 acres of coastal dune scrub habitat adjacent to the established monarch
overwintering grove;
7. Eliminate invasive Saharan mustard, veldt grass, and poison hemlock within the project area;
8. Create habitat features (such as basking/nesting sites) for California red-legged frog and
western pond turtle; and
9. Host two docent-led hikes per year and lead four volunteer events to remove invasive plants
and conduct an in-depth survey of the flora and fauna of BLEA.
Expected Results: As a direct result of this project, 6.94 acres of coastal freshwater pond, 17.02
acres of palustrine emergent and forested shrub wetland, and 21.04 acres of upland transition and
coastal dune scrub habitat will be restored and enhanced. This project will reestablish the area's
natural hydrologic functions by restoring the capacity of the pond and surrounding wetlands. These
restoration activities will additionally provide habitat for several rare, sensitive, and listed species.
The project will restore and enhance dispersal, foraging, and potential breeding habitat for the
California red-legged frog. Approximately two acres of freshwater wetlands will be used to
reestablish the endangered La Graciosa thistle and marsh sandwort at BLEA. The upland coastal
dune scrub habitats and the species that depend on them, including habitat for monarch butterflies,
will also be restored by removing non-native, invasive plants and revegetating the site with native
coastal dune scrub plants. This project will benefit both the native resident and transient species
that occur within the 22,000-acre GNDC by providing a source of perennial water and upland
refugia for both marsh-dependent species, and upland species. The public will learn about the
importance of coastal wetland and watershed functions through community outreach and annual
docent-led hikes for the public. Please refer to the Ranking Criteria# 1, 5, 6, and 7 for a complete
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
list of benefited species and recovery plan recommendations.
Approach: The selected restoration and enhancement activities are identified in the 2018 Dune
Protected Areas Network Work Plan. The work plan was developed by the Dunes
Collaborative which is comprised of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), LCSLO,
Guadalupe Nipomo Dunes Center, CA State Parks Ocean Dunes State Vehicular Area, County of
California, SCC, and CDFW. The plan was vetted and approved by the Dunes Collaborative
Restoration Task Force and over 30 subject-matter experts.
Sub-recipient: LCSLO is a sub-recipient of the award, and is the owner of the property. LCSLO
has over 35 years of experience successfully implementing wetland enhancement projects on the
California Central Coast. The organization acquired BLEA from the Nature Conservancy in 2000,
who purchased it for its unique conservation value and distinct natural history. Since then,LCSLO
has worked to restore BLEA, manage invasive weeds, and conduct strategic plantings of native
species on-site. In addition, LCSLO has been a valuable conservation partner with the Ventura
Fish and Wildlife Office(VFWO)on many restoration projects, species' recovery teams, and other
strategic conservation programs. LCSLO and VFWO have worked collaboratively at BLEA since
2013 to restore areas of coastal dune scrub habitat and repatriate Nipomo lupine onsite. This work
has resulted in an established and viable colony of this critically endangered species on the
property.
Jonathan Hall, Stewardship Director of LCSLO, will provide project oversight. He has
successfully implemented coastal wetland restoration projects on the California Central Coast for
the last 20 years. He is an expert in invasive species ecology and invasive species control in
sensitive habitats. He is a Pest Control Advisor (PCA#073792) and holds a Qualified Applicator
License (#115922). Lindsey Roddick, Senior Restoration Ecologist of LCSLO, will serve as the
project manager. She is a trained botanist specializing in rare plant species' ecology and has
overseen the restoration activities of LCSLO since 2016. She is a member of the Nipomo lupine
and La Graciosa thistle species' recovery teams. Scott Couture, Field Manager of LCSLO will
assist in project management and implementation. He has overseen implementation of restoration
activities of LCSLO properties for seven years and holds a Qualified Applicator License
(#144838). The restoration activities will be conducted with coordination from VFWO to ensure
compliance with the various permits and authorizations.
Black Lake Vegetation Management and Enhancement: LCSLO will secure an excavating
contractor to remove sediment and vegetation from up to one acre of marsh and to re-contour the
slopes and depressions to at least 5 feet deep. This depth will allow for additional open water
habitat without the threat of bulrush regrowth. Large, dense stands of vegetation will be removed
from additional portions of the lake with an aquatically approved herbicide or mechanical means
(removal methods will be case specific). Adjacent upland areas with poison hemlock and iceplant
4
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
(Carpobortus ssp. and Conicosia pugioniformis) will be treated with an appropriate herbicide.
Open, sandy banks will be created to provide turtle basking zones and general wildlife access to
the lake. Other habitat enhancement features, such as downed logs or rocks for western pond turtle
basking and California red-legged frog refugia, will also be installed during this phase of the
project. As needed throughout implementation of the project,LCSLO will treat the existing stands
of tule/bulrush and cattail within the restoration area with an aquatic approved herbicide and
remove the dead debris.
Marsh Sandwort Habitat Enhancement and Outplanting: LCSLO contracted an engineering firm
to obtain engineering designs and other survey-grade hydrological and topographical information
needed for restoration of the freshwater marsh. LCSLO will secure an excavating contractor for
the project to remove sediment and vegetation from the marsh, and to re-contour the slopes and
depressions to the natural topography. A 25-ft buffer surrounding the planting site will be cleared
of large, overgrown hydrophytic vegetation. This buffer will allow for better access and
management of the area, and will create space for the established marsh sandwort colonies to
expand. Any excavated soils will be repurposed onsite in adjacent, upland areas. LCSLO, in
coordination with VFWO and the University of California, Santa Barbara's Cheadle Center for
Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration (CCBER), will obtain propagated clones of marsh
sandwort from the University of California, Santa Cruz, greenhouse stock, which were originally
collected from Black Lake Canyon in the nineties before it became extirpated. Cuttings from the
remaining wild Oso Flaco Lake population (California Natural Diversity Database [CNDDB]
Occurrence No. 9) may also be collected and used for the project. Through a USFWS Coastal
Program Project, CCBER will propagate and maintain these collections for outplanting, so that at
least 350 plugs are installed within the freshwater marsh onsite, post restoration.
La Graciosa Thistle Habitat Enhancement and Outplanting: VFWO will facilitate collection of La
Graciosa thistle seed at as many of the existing occurrences as can be collected. VFWO and
LCSLO will track the maternal lines of the collections made and record the GPS positions. La
Graciosa thistle seeds will be propagated in greenhouse facilities located within the GNDC.
LCSLO will install the propagated La Graciosa thistle seedlings at two locations; the historic
occurrence of the species at Black Lake (CNDDB Occurrence No. 16) and the western edge of
Black Lake, where additional suitable habitat exists. Planting will be in coordination and with
oversight from VFWO. LCSLO will prepare the site for planting by removing vegetation
(bulrush/cattail, blackberry, and other nonnatives). Multiple management tools will be
implemented to remove vegetation from the area including mechanical removal and chemical
treatment. Herbicide treatment will be minimal once the La Graciosa thistle has been planted.
LCSLO will record the GPS position of each La Graciosa thistle seedling installed and monitor
individuals for successful seed production.
Coastal Dunes Scrub Habitat Enhancement: Adjacent to Black Lake is a circle of eucalyptus trees
5
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
where an old homestead once resided. No buildings exist today, but the eucalyptus ring creates a
physical barrier to the surrounding coastal dune scrub. The northwest portion of the eucalyptus
ring supports a large western monarch overwintering population (largest counted in 2013 with
12,073;most recent count in 2019 of 741)(Xerces Society 2019).Monarchs utilize the surrounding
coastal dune scrub for nectary sources to sustain their spring migration. LCSLO will contract a
tree service to remove selected eucalyptus trees from the southeastern border of the eucalyptus
circle, originally planted as a hedgerow. Eucalyptus trees will be selected after wind sensors have
been installed and it has been determined that removal will not adversely affect the overwintering
monarch population. Removal of physical and genetic barriers will restore habitat connectivity of
this area with the adjacent coastal dune scrub habitat and allow native plant species to disperse and
populate near the established overwintering site. LCSLO will restore coastal dune scrub habitat
and enhance the monarch overwintering habitat within the opened eucalyptus circle by establishing
additional flowering coastal dune scrub plants to serve as nectar sources for the monarchs. LCSLO
will collect, clean and store native flowering plants from neighboring sites. All habitat
enhancements will be overseen by VFWO, local monarch experts of Monarch Alert, and Dr.
Francis Villablanca of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
LCSLO will manage the site for invasive species; invasive species of concern include Saharan
mustard and perennial veldt grass, but additional nonnative species threats will be managed as
needed. LCSLO will organize an annual volunteer event in late spring to hand pull the remaining
Saharan mustard population. Veldt grass is one of the most dominant invasive species within
GNDC and is primarily spread by wind-borne seed(Cal-IPC 2020). In recent years, land managers
throughout the complex have been controlling and arresting the spread of veldt grass. LCSLO
began aggressively managing veldt grass at BLEA in 2019.Fifteen acres has already been removed
within the eucalyptus ring. Controlling the spread of veldt grass was needed prior to removing
eucalyptus trees, in order to prevent seed spread and veldt grass re-establishment. For more
information please see Criteria 12—"Other Factors".
Integrated Pest Management: LCSLO's top priority is to protect and enhance native habitats and
the species within them. In order to implement the safest and most efficient techniques for invasive
species control, LCSLO has adopted an integrated pest management approach. Each project
component is reviewed and the appropriate management tools are executed to reach the desired
outcome. To ensure projects are implemented correctly, LCSLO holds it's own pesticide business
license through the California Department of Pesticide Regulation and licensed staff manage
restoration projects with the utmost care and oversight. All chemical invasive weed management
actions will be conducted in accordance with the herbicide label specifications and any other
measures, terms, and conditions of the regulatory permits obtained for the project. This includes
direct oversite and collaboration with VFWO. Water quality testing to detect concentrations of
herbicide remaining in the water will be collected and reported to the Regional Water Quality
Control Board, in accordance with LCSLO's Aquatic Pesticide Application Plan.
6
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Current and Long-Term Management: The restoration benefits will be maintained in perpetuity by
LCSLO, the property owner and subrecipient of the grant, as part of the long-term management
goals set in LCSLO's Strategic Plan (Goal 2, Strategy 2.2) and the Dune Protected Areas Work
Plan(LCSLO 2018). Periodic, long-term management will be necessary to preserve the ecosystem
services provided through this project. LCSLO is prepared to take on the long-term maintenance
of this site through periodic vegetation management and long-term restoration planning. Large-
scale management of this kind has never been necessary at Black Lake until recently, and is an
emerging issue due to increased biostimlation, sedimentation, and changing hydrology in the
region. Subsequent sediment removal, re-contouring, or other large-scale wetland vegetation
management at BLEA are not expected within 20 years after completion of this project. Smaller
scale vegetation management and weed control will likely continue to occur outside of the project
boundary.
Small-scale vegetation management will be necessary annually and will be funded by LCSLO
stewardship budget for the entirety of BLEA. The stewardship budget is in part supported by an
endowment for restoration activities at BLEA, because the site was selected as a funded DPA by
the Dunes Collaborative. This endowment has been preserved to maintain selected DPAs in
perpetuity and is anticipated to contribute in the range of$30,000 in management funds each year
for BLEA. In addition, general LCSLO operational funds are annually allocated toward
management of BLEA. LCSLO also intends to pursue additional grant funding for other wetland
and habitat restoration/enhancement projects throughout the adjacent Black Lake Canyon corridor,
providing long-term management and improved hydrologic flow throughout the system. For more
information please see Criteria 3 —"Long-term conservation".
Readiness/Timeline: LCSLO and local partners will prepare final restoration designs, complete
review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental
Protection Act (NEPA), and secure all required local, state, and federal permits to construct the
project. The final design and permit phase will begin in June 2020, and is anticipated to be
completed by June 2021, with the construction to follow beginning in the July 2021, and
concluding by the end of 2025. If NCWC funds are awarded, they will be subgranted to LCSLO
by June 2021.
Compliance: Preliminary planning and regulatory permitting for this project will be conducted
with funds from California Department of Fish and Wildlife's (CDFW) Office of Spill Prevention
and Response (OSPR). A 1600 Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement from CDFW is likely
required.A Coastal Development Permit Waiver will be facilitated by the San Luis Obispo County
Planning and Building Department to comply with the Local Coastal Plan. LCSLO will prepare
the regulatory permit application(s) and obtain these necessary authorizations. The VFWO will
conduct an internal consultation pursuant to Section 7 of the Federal Endangered Species Act and
7
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
facilitate acquisition of any other permits required for the project. This may include a 2081 or
Letter of Concurrence from CDFW and cultural resource clearance pursuant to Section 106 of the
National Historic Preservation Act. VFWO will prepare the associated Finding of No Significant
Impact or Environmental Assessment,pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act.VFWO
will coordinate throughout permitting process, so that all project activities are covered prior to
implementation.
State Trust Fund: SCC requests eligibility for a 75 percent federal share as the State of California
has established trust funds for conservation of natural areas, including coastal wetlands. The
primary California trust fund for these purposes was established in 1990, when California voters
approved Proposition 117,the Mountain Lion Initiative.This initiative mandated the State to create
the Habitat Conservation Fund (HCF) and to annually appropriate thirty million dollars to the
account for use by SCC, CDFW, and other specified agencies. HCF funds are generated by both
the State's General Fund and designated cigarette tax monies. The State also has the income tax
check-off for wildlife habitat and 7 the Environmental License Plate Program, which provide for
voluntary contribution to habitat conservation efforts by State Agencies.
Relationship to Other Projects and/or Other Federal Grants:A complex-wide effort to protect
and restore important areas exists through the Dunes Collaborative partnership. LCSLO is heavily
involved this partnership and has directly contributed to restoration enhancements throughout the
complex. The table below outlines the current related LCSLO projects:
Table. Other projects within GNDC
Location Main Objectives Funding Source
BLEA Marsh restoration and Marsh sandwort OSPR(State)
outplanting
BLEA Coastal scrub enhancement and species Dunes Collaborative (State)
status species protection
BLEA Nipomo lupine outplanting and species Section 6(LCSLO is a
research subrecipient and partner)(State)
Guadalupe-Nipomo La Graciosa thistle outplanting and USFWS Coastal Program
Dunes National Wildlife habitat enhancement (Federal); OSPR(State)
Refuge(GNDNWR)
GNDNWR Foredune, coastal wetland restoration Dunes Collaborative (State)
Phillips 66 Nipomo lupine habitat restoration and Dunes Collaborative (State)
species research
Public Involvement and Interagency Coordination: The project activities are identified in the
2018 Dune Protected Areas Network Work Plan. The work plan was developed by the Dunes
Collaborative which was vetted and approved by the Dunes Collaborative Restoration Task Force
and over 30 subject-matter experts. For more information please see Criteria 12 -
`Education/outreach program or wildlife-oriented recreation".
8
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
BUDGET AND BUDGET NARRATIVE
The $584,909 in requested funding from the NCWCGP would fund the wetlands restoration
project as well as part of the cost of project management. California Department of Fish and
Wildlife's (CDFW) Office of Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR) is providing match for
completion of the final design and permitting work to be completed prior to the restoration
construction phase. The total project cost, including the final design,permit phase, and restoration
construction phases, is $930,390. The project cost is being met with the required base match for
the NCWC grant, totaling $345,481 in in-kind and cash match. Additional information on cost
categories used in the SF424C follows.
Match and Non-Match Summary
Federal Participation
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation (NCWC)Grant Program $584,909
USFWS Coastal Program $2,500
Non-Federal Match
State Coastal Conservancy-Habitat Conservation Fund(SCC) $73,500
California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Office of Spill Prevention $27,858; $66,900*
and Response(OSPR)
Dunes Collaborative $157,103*
California Native Plant Society, San Luis Obispo Chapter(CNPS) $8,000
California Central Coast Wildlife Society(CCCWS) $3,120
The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County(LCSLO) $6,500*
Total Project Costs $930,390
*Pre-award match
Administrative and Legal Expenses: Consists of project management costs totaling $20,037 in
staff time for the State Coastal Conservancy(SCC). This expense will be funded by NCWC funds
and will cover project management and legal staff time to prepare a staff recommendation and
present it to the Conservancy Board for authorization,prepare a grant agreement,process invoices,
prepare reports, and assist with project permitting and oversight. Conservancy staff will also be
involved in finalizing project designs. Conservancy staff hours are as shown in the table below.
Position Hours Hourly Fringe Benefit Indirect Total
(Staff Person) Rate Percentage Cost Rate Billable
Conservancy Project 130 47.46 53.91% 50.82% $14,143
Development Analyst II
(Hilary Walecka)
Attorney I 24 71.27 53.91% 50.82% $3,921
(Kim Kriozere)
Public Lands Manager 12 71.71 53.91% 50.82% $1,973
(Trish Chapman)
Total $20,037
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Architectural and Engineering Fees: Architectural and engineering costs total $60,400. These
costs are for conceptual and final design and permitting for the project,including an environmental
review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental
Quality Act(CEQA). These costs will be paid for with OSPR funds and will be utilized to pay fees
for an engineering consultant to prepare final designs and for permitting. These costs are expected
to be incurred after the proposal is submitted but before the award is made. This is a cash match
contribution.
Construction: Construction costs total$843,453 as detailed below. Funding for construction costs
will come primarily from NCWC funds. NCWC funds for construction will be a contractual
expense through a subgrant agreement between SCC and the Land Conservancy of San Luis
Obispo County(LCSLO).
Major Implementation Tasks,Budget, and Timeline
Activity Cost Funding Source Completion
Date
Planning and permitting $60,400* OSPR Fall 2020
$6,500* LCSLO**
Construction
Black Lake Vegetation $136,761 NCWC Fall 2022
Management and Enhancement: $73,500 SCC
vegetation management, enhance $500 CNPS
hydrological functions, and $2,000 CCCWS
decrease biostimulation
Marsh sandwort Habitat $47,515 NCWC Winter 2023
Enhancement: vegetation $27,858 OSPR
management,recontouring, $2,500 USFWS Coastal
sediment removal,planting,and Program
monitoring
La Graciosa thistle Habitat $32,338 NCWC Winter 2023
Enhancement: vegetation
management,planting,and
monitoring
Coastal dune scrub Habitat $354,758 NCWC Winter 2023
Enhancement: invasive species $157,103*$7,500 Dunes Collaborative
management, seed collection, $1,120 CNPS**
habitat enhancement,monitoring CCCWS**
Construction subtotal $843,453
Project Management $20,037 NCWC
Total Project Cost $930,390
*Pre-award match, **In-kind match
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Detailed Construction Budget:
ESTIMATED
ITEM NO_ ITEM QUANTITY UNIT UNIT COST _
Black UN Vegetation Management and Enhancement
1 Earth Moving and Sediment Removal 1 CE $178,000 $178,000
2 Vegetation Management 1 LS $30,431 $30,431
3 Construction Management and Monitoring 1 LS $4,330 $4,330
Marsh Sandwort Habitat Enhancement arid Outplanting
4- Earth Moving and Sediment Removal 1 CE $21,600 $21,600
5 Vegetation Management 1 LS $15,634 $15,63
6 Greenhouse Propagation 1 CE .$2,500 $2,500
7 Outplanting and Monitoring 1 L5 $34,358 $34,358
8 Construction Management and Monitoring 1 L5 .$3,782 $3,782
La Gracimsa Thistle Habitat Enhancement and Outplanting
9 Vegetation Management 1 $19,772 $19,772
10 Greenhouse Propagation 1 _ $5,000 $5,000
11 Outplanting and Monitoring 1 $7,565 $7,565
Coastal Dunes Scrub Habitat Enhanint
12 Invasive Species Management 1 L5 $210,663 $210,663
13 Habitat Enhancentients 1 LS $33,590 $33,599
14- Tree Work/Removal 1 CE $260,000 $260,000
15 Construction Management and Monitoring 1 LS $15,090 $15,099
16 Species Inventory Monitoring 1 LS $1,120 $1,120
TOTAL $843453
Pre-award Cash Match: Pre-award cash match totals $224,003; $217,503 is cash match and
$6,500 is in-kind match. The Dunes Collaborative has contributed $157,103 towards veldt grass
removal at BLEA over the last two years. The spread of veldt grass needed to be controlled prior
to coastal dune scrub and monarch restoration in order to prevent seed spread throughout
BLEA as veldt grass is one of the most dominant invasive species within Guadalupe-Nipomo
Dunes Complex (GNDC). It is primarily spread by wind-borne seed and in recent years, land
managers throughout the complex have started aggressively controlling veldt grass (Cal-IPC
2020). California Department of Fish and Wildlife's (CDFW) Office of Spill Prevention and
Response (OSPR) is providing $60,400 in pre-award cash match for final design and permitting
work which will be completed prior to the restoration construction phase. LCSLO will provide
$6,500 in in-kind,pre-award match to help complete the final design and permitting work.
In-Kind Match: In-kind match for the project totals $15,120. LCSLO will provide $6,500 in
11
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
volunteer labor for project design and management. California Native Plant Society, San Luis
Obispo, a local nonprofit, are contributing a total of $7,500 to plan and implement one public
volunteer event for three years to manage invasive plant species and collect native seed. Each
volunteer event will provide 125 volunteer hours at$20 per hour. California Central Coast Wildlife
Society is contributing volunteer professional services in the amount of$1,120 to conduct a one-
day bio blitz of the site to provide an updated inventory of wildlife species utilizing the site. The
bio-blitz will be conducted by four experts over one day.
Required Indirect Cost Statement: We are a U.S. state government entity receiving less than
$35 million in direct Federal funding annually with an indirect cost rate of 50.82%.We are required
to prepare and retain for audit an indirect cost rate proposal and related documentation to support
those costs. SCC anticipates charging indirect costs on SCC staff time for the grant. These costs
are included in the $20,037 in staff time described above, as seen in the staff time table. SCC's
Negotiated Indirect Cost Agreement is attached to this proposal.
Single Audit Reporting Statement: The California State Coastal Conservancy's required Single
Audit Reporting Statement is on file with WSFR. In addition, a current Assurances form (SF 424D)
is on file with our regional WSFR office.
Conflict of Interest: There are no conflicts of interest to disclose in association with this project.
Overlap/Duplication Statement: There is no overlap or duplication between this application and
any of our other Federal applications or funded projects in regard to activities, costs, or time
commitment of key personnel.
Allocation of Costs: Overall project implementation costs are charged to funding sources in
keeping with identified project components in submitted grant proposals and grant agreements.
Indirect costs are charged on direct costs allocated to specific funding sources.
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
RANKING CRITERIA
1. Wetlands conservation.
Table. Acreage enhanced/restored by the project.
Habitat Type Number of acres Percentage of total project
area
Total Project Area 45 100%
Total declining coastal 23.96 53.2%
wetlands
Freshwater emergent wetlands 4.78 10.6%
(PEM 1 C)
Freshwater forested/shrub
wetlands(PSS1C) 12.24 27.2%
Coastal dune freshwater pond °
(PUBH) 6.94 15.4/o
Total stable coastal wetlands 0 0%
Total Upland 21.04 46.8%
The US Fish and Wildlife Service has described the GNDC as, "the most unique and fragile
ecosystem in the State of California"(USFWS 2000). The coastal freshwater habitats found in the
GNDC are extremely unique and not found in other dune systems along the California Coast.
BLEA is home to intact coastal freshwater marsh habitat, as well as other rare habitats such as
active coastal dunes, central foredunes, central dune scrub, Central Coast arroyo willow riparian
communities. BLEA was previously owned by the adjacent Dune Lakes Ltd. before being
purchased and transferred to LCSLO. Before transferring the property, Dune Lakes Ltd. actively
managed the hydrology in Black Lake for flood control, agricultural irrigation, and to maintain
flow levels for waterfowl (2 LCSLO 2018). Groundwater pumping has increased substantially
over the last decade due to expanding residential development and surrounding agriculture (1
LCSLO 2018). As a result, subsurface recharge has decreased and surface flows have increased,
causing increased sedimentation, biostimulation, and overgrowth of denser, hyrdrophytic
vegetation. Without some vegetation management, the coastal freshwater emergent wetland
immediately east of the lake will be completely taken over by tule/bulrush to the point where it
will likely no longer pond water and will constrict surface flows into the lake. Recontouring the
freshwater marsh and removing vegetation throughout the freshwater wetland will retain water
capacity and surface flow, and prevent from type conversion to upland. This project will restore
the area to 17.02 acres of freshwater emergent and forested/shrub wetlands.
Black Lake is classified as a freshwater pond on the National Wetlands Inventory Mapper, but is
unique from most California ponds in that it is landlocked by sand dunes less than one mile from
the ocean (USFWS 2020). Black Lake is part of Dune Lakes, a system of eleven coastal dune
13
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
freshwater ponds that are located very close to the Pacific Ocean, where the groundwater table is
perched and provides for the ponding of water. Due to agricultural and urban development,
recreation,and stabilization from non-native species,California's coastal dunes systems have been
severely impacted and reduced to isolated areas throughout the coast (Pickart 1988). The decline
of California's coastal dunes has subsequently reduced the number of coastal dune freshwater
ponds. The Dune Lakes and freshwater ponds of GNDC are the only places on California's Central
Coast that have naturally occurring coastal dune freshwater ponds (USFWS 2020). The rarity of
this habitat makes it imperative to protect and restore; not only is a coastal dune freshwater pond
a regionally decreasing wetland type, it is the only location on the West Coast with this density of
coastal dune freshwater ponds.
Recently,the lakes within Dune Lakes are drying and hold perennial water less frequently(Kofron
2019). Black Lake is the deepest of the Dune Lakes, receiving water from both groundwater
recharge and surface flow from Black Lake Canyon (1 LCSLO 2018; Kofron 2019). From 2012
to 2016, California was in a severe state of drought from 2012 to 2016 and in 2017, although
Governor Jerry Brown announced that the California drought was over, the drought restrictions
remained for the Nipomo Mesa (Lund et al. 2018; Nipomo Community Services District 2017;
Leslie 2017).Nipomo's water supply is mainly filled by groundwater aquifers,and although rivers
and reservoirs were re-charged at the end of California's most recent drought, groundwater
aquifers take years or decades to refill (Nipomo Community Services District 2017; Lund et al.
2018). The year-to-year precipitation in California has been variable since 1980, causing
uncertainty with how precipitation will vary into the future (OEHHA 2019). As groundwater
resources become more uncertain, protecting the hydrology of Black Lake is crucial to keeping a
source of perennial freshwater in the region. Vegetation management will prevent the coastal
freshwater pond from being taken over by tule and bulrush, resulting in increased water retention
and valuable, open-water habitat. This project will protect the habitat at Black Lake by restoring
6.94 acres of the coastal dune freshwater pond.
Long-term management of groundwater resources is a complex and multi-faceted issue that is
being addressed systematically by the state, with implementation and regional planning from the
County and at smaller, more localized scales. We expect groundwater pumping issues to persist
into the foreseeable future. Fortunately, the portion of the groundwater table beneath Black Lake
is relatively close to the surface, which makes it a reliable and consistent, perennial water source.
Therefore, the overarching purpose of the project scope is the maximize the hydrological function
within the system to achieve the most efficient use of surface water outputs and groundwater
recharge. Overgrown hydrophytic vegetation and sediments trap water and disrupt recharge, and
this is one of the aspects that the project is designed to remove and subsequently manage.
LCSLO is committed to water resource management and protection in the region through the
conservation of land. LCSLO has conserved 2,060 acres of property in Black Lake Canyon and
14
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
over 30,000 acres throughout San Luis Obispo County (Figure 5). The protection of these lands
means long-term protection of the groundwater resources below. With the threat form expanding
agriculture and greenhouse properties in the area, LCSLO's acquisition of lands for conservation
purposes limits the groundwater extraction and offer important wildlife wetland resources.LCSLO
considers Black Lake and the surrounding area to be a priority land conservation area and will
continue to focus conservation efforts in the region.
2. Maritime forests on coastal barriers. Not Applicable.
3. Long-term conservation. LCSLO purchased BLEA from the Nature Conservancy with the
specific intent of preserving and protecting the unique set of habitats found within the Guadalupe
Nipomo Dunes. BLEA offers an unparalleled opportunity to protect both coastal wetlands and
dwindling coastal dune scrub while safeguarding important wildlife corridors. The property's
management priorities have always been determined on how it will benefit the coastal dune
ecosystem and the species found within it. LCSLO has worked diligently for the last 20 years to
enhance the coastal dune scrub habitat surrounding Black Lake and it is now a regional example
of how successful coastal dune restoration can be maintained.
The coastal wetland enhancements selected in this proposal will require minimal maintenance in
the next 20 years. BLEA has needed very little management in the last 50 years but with recent
increases in sedimentation and biostilumation, and the changes in the regional hydrology, larger
scale restoration is necessary to enhance the wetland functions. Project components were selected
to ensure that LCSLO's annual management budget can execute their long-term success. Long-
term management activities will predominately include invasive species control surrounding
special status species, and early detection of invasive species threats. LCSLO will continue to
apply for regional, state, federal funding to support additional work at BLEA, and throughout
Black Lake Canyon. BLEA has also been designated as a Dune Protected Area and a restoration
endowment has been put in place for long-term management and maintenance. This restoration
endowment has been invested and only the interest can be used annually. Returns will fluctuate
year to year, but it is likely BLEA DPA will secure around $30,000 each year to maintain and
manage restoration projects. Based on similar projects LCSLO has implemented regionally, this
funding will be sufficient to maintain the habitat improvements created through this funding.
4. Coastal watershed management. Black Lake Ecological Area was selected as one of eleven
Dune Protected Areas in GNDC because of its high-quality habitat and inclusion of conservation
targets. BLEA has specifically been mentioned as a high priority in many regional conservation
plans. The below plans are highlighted because they specifically identify the area, have been
developed or updated over the past decade, and continue to guide conservation investments, and
represent the diversity of conservation targets and habitats that could be protected via this project.
15
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Table. Coastal Watershed Plans and Efforts
Management Plan/Effort Project Contribution to Goals
Dune Protected Areas Network The project will implement the following listed restoration activities
1.0 Restoration Plan(2018) for BLEA:
• Invasive removal of: narrow leaved iceplant,perennial veldt
grass,blue gum eucalyptus,and Saharan mustard
• Enhancement of natural dune succession
• Non-native tree removal
• Active habitat enhancement
• Wetland preservation and connectivity—freshwater habitats
Dune Protected Areas Network The project will implement the following Priority 1 Action for
1.0 Work Plan(2018) BLEA:
• Perennial veldt grass removal
The project will implement the following Priority 2 Actions for
BLEA:
• Saharan mustard containment and control
• Narrow leaved iceplant control
• Blue gum eucalyptus tree containment and removal
• Freshwater habitat enhancement
The project will implement the following Priority 3 Actions for
BLEA:
• Dune succession restoration
• Active habitat restoration
San Luis Obispo County's BLEA is designated an Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area
Local Coastal Program(1988) (ESHA) by San Luis Obispo County. ESHA is a type of Sensitive
Resource Area where plant or animal life or their habitats are either
rare or especially valuable because of their special nature or role in an
ecosystem and which could easily be disturbed or degraded by human
activities and development.This project will improve the quality of the
designated ESHA.
Recovery Plan for Marsh Actions needed:
Sandwort(Arenaria paludicolu) 1. Protect,maintain, and enhance species habitats
and Gambel's Watercress 2. Monitor and document species populations and habitat
(Rorippa gambelii) characteristics
3. Conduct research on the ecology and biology of the species
4. Increase size of existing populations
Objective 15. Enhance existing habitat at Black Lake Canyon
5. Conservation of threatened and endangered species. The Central Coast region of California
supports a broad range of unique habitat types and many special status species. These communities
16
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
and the species that utilize them are also some of the most threatened because of population growth
and urban development, increased pressures from agriculture, recreation and tourism, as well as
sea level rise and climate change. Implementation of this project will restore or enhance habitat
for 15 special status species. Each of these species are listed in the table below, which includes
their regulatory status and a brief description of how the project benefits them and their habitat.
Table. Special Status Species Benefiting From the Project
Common Name Scientific Name Status Project Benefits
American Falco peregrinus anatum BMC; SWAP* Restoration of coastal dune
peregrine falcon scrub and freshwater marsh
Blochman's leafy Erigeron blochmaniae CRPR List 1B.2 Coastal dune scrub habitat
daisy restoration
California black Laterallus jamaicensis ST/SFP Freshwater marsh habitat
rail coturniculus restoration
California red- Rana draytonii FT/SSC Freshwater marsh and lake
legged frog (breeding, aquatic and
upland)habitat restoration
California saw- Cladium californicum CRPR List 2B.2 Freshwater marsh habitat
grass restoration
coast horned Phrynosoma blainvillii SSC Coastal dune scrub habitat
lizard restoration
coastal goosefoot Chenopodium littoreum CRPR List 1B.2 Coastal dune scrub habitat
restoration
crisp monardella Monardella undulata ssp. CRPR List 1B.2 Coastal dune scrub habitat
crispa restoration
dune larkspur Delphinium parryi ssp. CRPR List 1B.2 Coastal dune scrub habitat
blochmaniae restoration
Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos BMC**; SWAP* Restoration of coastal dune
scrub and freshwater marsh
La Graciosa Cirsium scariosum var. FE/ST/CRPR List Freshwater marsh and lake
thistle loncholepis IB.1 habitat restoration and
outplanting
legless lizard Anniella pulchra SSC Coastal dune scrub habitat
restoration
marsh sandwort Arenaria paludicola FE/SE/CRPR List Freshwater marsh habitat
1B.1 restoration and outplanting
monarch butterfly Danaus plexippus FR Coastal dune scrub(nectar
-overwintering sources) and overwintering
habitat restoration and
management
Nipomo lupine Lupinus nipomensis FE/SE/CRPR List Coastal dune scrub habitat
IB.1 restoration and outplanting
San Luis Obispo Monardella undulata ssp. CRPR List 1B.2 Coastal dune scrub habitat
monardella undulata restoration
southwestern Actinemys pallida SSC Freshwater marsh and lake
pond turtle (breeding,aquatic,and
upland)habitat restoration
Status Codes:FE-Federally Endangered;FT-Federally Threatened,FR-Undergoing Federal Review;
SE-State Endangered,ST-State Threatened; SFP-State Fully Protected;SSC-State Species of Special
17
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Concern; CRPR List 1B.1 -California Native Plant Society Rare Plant Rank,Plant Rare, Threatened or
Endangered in California and elsewhere that is seriously threatened in the State; CRPR List 1B.2 -
California Native Plant Society Rare Plant Rank,Plant Rare,Threatened or Endangered in California and
elsewhere that is moderately threatened in the State; CRPR List 2B.2 - Plant Rare, Threatened or
Endangered in California,but more common elsewhere that is moderately threatened in the State; BMC
- Birds of Management Concern under Migratory Bird Treaty Act; BMC** - Birds of Management
Concern Focal Species;and SWAP*-State Wildlife Action Plan Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
Federal Threatened and Endangered Species. Implementation of the project will directly
benefit four federally listed species and one that is undergoing formal review by the USFWS to
determine if protections under the federal Endangered Species Act are warranted. This section
describes these federally listed species in greater detail and further explains how they will directly
benefit from the project. Additional information about how the project furthers fulfillment of the
species' recovery plans, overall recovery, and designated critical habitat is also included in this
section.
California Red-legged Frog: This species was listed as threatened by the Service in 1996 (61 FR
25813). The revised critical habitat designation for California red-legged frog was finalized in
2010 (75 FR 12816). While BLEA does not occur within the critical habitat designation, it
still offers important habitat identified in the regional conservation strategy. The final
California red-legged frog recovery plan was approved by the Service in 2002 (USFWS 2002).
The species requires both aquatic and upland habitats. It breeds in streams,ponds,marshes,plunge
pools and other backwater areas within dune ponds, lagoons and estuaries. The typical breeding
season extends November through March. Riparian habitats are important for resting, feeding,
dispersal, moisture, and cover. California red-legged frog disperses into upland areas during the
wet season and may travel overland distances up to two miles from breeding sites, depending on
the habitat types present. Dispersing individuals rely on habitat features such as boulders,
interstitial spaces beneath tree roots,unoccupied small mammal burrows,and other soil cracks and
crevices for cover. Adults may remain active all year if suitable aquatic habitat is present and will
estivate in moist refuges, until the onset of the wet season if such habitat is unavailable.
California red-legged frog faces a high risk of extirpation in the GNDC, where it is well-
known to occur.This risk is primarily due to declining aquatic and upland habitat quality,changes
in hydrology, and predation from American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus). Unlike other
coastal stream areas where California red-legged frog occurs throughout San Luis Obispo County,
the species has limited ability to move between aquatic sites because of the xeric nature of the
surrounding upland habitat. Invasive species, such as veldt grass and overgrown hydrophytic
plants, utilize large amounts of the available water and alter the hydrologic function. The stability
of populations within occupied sites throughout the GNDC is crucial in order to maintain regional
connectivity between other occupied areas along the coast located to both the north and the south.
Several CNDDB occurrence records for the species are within GNDC and surround BLEA.
Element Occurrence No. 744 is located within Black Lake Canyon, approximately 2.88 kilometers
(1.8 miles) east of the State Highway 1 crossing. CNDDB Occurrence No. 496 is located north of
BLEA and was recorded within Arroyo Grande Creek. Occurrence No. 936 and 299 are located to
the south and were documented in dune ponds within the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular
Recreation Area. VFWO recently funded an eDNA study within the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
National Wildlife Refuge that yielded positive results for the species in several of the ponds within
this site and staff have randomly encountered the species within the freshwater marsh and lake
margins of Black Lake. Local consultants recall seeing approximately 25 individuals within Black
Lake Canyon in 2010 and 15 in the same area in 2018. They presume breeding and persistence of
the species in the Canyon (Terra Verde Environmental Consulting 2020, pers. corn.).
VFWO is working on a draft strategic conservation plan and advisory mitigation guidance for
California red-legged frog informed in part, by elicitation from several species experts. This
document is intended to be used as a stepped-down tool to achieve the criteria outlined within the
species recovery plan for the regionally identified core areas. Protection of the existing ponds
within the GNDC are identified as one of two most crucial actions for conservation and
recovery of California red-legged frog in the South Coast Region. This same document also
recommends permanent protection and/or management of aquatic features occupied by California
red-legged frog by purchase or establishment of conservation easements and/or funding for
maintenance and restoration on such features located near the Nipomo Mesa as a specific
conservation priority (USFWS 2018). More generally, implementation of the proposed project
contributes to accomplishment of the following delisting criteria identified within the species
recovery plan: 1) suitable habitats within all identified core areas protected and/or managed for
California red-legged frogs in perpetuity, and the ecological integrity of these areas is not
threatened by adverse anthropogenic habitat modification (including indirect effects of
upstream/downstream land uses) and 3) populations are geographically distributed in a manner
that allows for the continued existence of viable metapopulations despite fluctuations in the status
of individual populations(i.e.when populations are stable or increasing at each core area[USFWS
2002]).
La Graciosa Thistle: La Graciosa thistle was federally listed as endangered in 2000(65 FR 14888).
The revised critical habitat designation for the species was finalized in 2009. BLEA is within Unit
1A of the designation(75 FR 12816). The Service is in the process of completing a draft recovery
plan for the species,but the draft is not far enough along in the review process to cite. La Graciosa
thistle occurs in wetland habitats with sandy soils including: coastal dune wetlands,lakes,marshes,
ponds, seeps, and swales. It also occurs along the upper margins and floodplains of intermittent
and perennial coastal streams. La Graciosa thistle survives by colonizing patches of newly opened
habitat created by physical or biotic disturbance, which typically results from wind-driven dune
processes and natural, seasonal fluctuations in hydrology. The species is generally competitively
inferior to later successional species, such as willow(Salix spp.)and bulrush(Schoenoplectus spp.,
Bolboschoenus spp., and Scirpus microcarpus). Most of the known occurrences are associated
with wetland features scattered throughout the backdunes of the GNDC and a marshy, riverine
system along the upper margins and floodplains of the Santa Maria River that marks the southern
limits of the GNDC.
There are currently 23 element occurrences of La Graciosa thistle in the CNDDB. Of these, 16 are
likely or confirmed to be extirpated and seven are extant. CNDDB Occurrence No. 16 is mapped
within Black Lake and considered extirpated. The species was reported to occur within Black Lake
by the late Robert Hoover in his Vascular Plants of San Luis Obispo County (1970), but has not
been observed since despite several survey efforts. Implementation of this project will
repatriate La Graciosa thistle in Black Lake, which is essential to its recovery. The site is
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
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especially important because it has a perennial source of water. Repatriation of the species within
Black Lake is also important for recovery because the site is conserved in perpetuity and has a
management endowment.
Marsh Sandwort: Marsh sandwort was federally listed as endangered in 1993 (58 FR 41378).
Critical habitat for this species has not yet been designated. A recovery plan was finalized for
marsh sandwort in 1998 and was amended to include delisting criteria in 2019 (USFWS 1998 and
USFWS 2019). This species requires freshwater marsh habitats along the coast; it has declined
drastically throughout its range and is facing extreme risk of extinction. There are 16 element
occurrences currently in the CNDDB. Of these, only two are confirmed to be extant (Occurrence
No. 14 and No. 9). The rest of the occurrences are likely or confirmed to be extirpated.
Occurrence No. 14 was established in 2003 at a local preserve in San Luis Obispo County by a
joint venture with several partners and VFWO. This population was reduced in size from King
Tides that submerged its habitat over the winter of 2018. Competition from other species(common
watercress [Nasturtium officinale] and water beard grass [Polypogon viridis]) and foraging by
raccoon(Procyon lotor)are also threatening the occurrence. Occurrence No. 9 is a wild population
on State Park lands last seen in 2018. Competition from other aquatic species, sedimentation, and
changes to the local hydrology are the most imminent threats identified for this population and no
management is occurring. In 2011, VFWO worked with partners to outplant marsh sandwort at
two national park sites in the Bay Area. One of the sites is considered stable, and partners are
working to manage threats and bolster this population. The other was not successful.
Black Lake and the associated canyon to the east of State Highway 1 include five of the CNDDB
occurrences and was the most prolific locality throughout the species historic range. Occurrence
No. 4 was mapped directly on Black Lake and is now extirpated. Therefore, implementation of
this project is the first step to strategically repatriate marsh sandwort in Black Lake and
throughout the extent of the canyon. Re-establishment of a viable population of the species
at this location is paramount to its recovery and has the highest chance of success because
the site will be managed in perpetuity. The main objective for the long-term management and
recovery of marsh sandwort is to secure viable, self-sustaining populations of the species in its
natural habitat(USFWS 1998,page 30). More specifically,the preliminary criteria for downlisting
are: at least five populations of at least 500 individuals and the populations remain viable for at
least five years. The species recovery plan specifically mentions Black Lake Canyon as being
desirable because at the time of this publication, it supported several occurrences and permanently
protected habitats (USFWS 1998, page 30-31). Implementation of this project will explicitly
address achievement of the marsh sandwort preliminary downlisting criteria.
Monarch: The USFWS received a petition to list monarch as a threatened species under the
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended in August 2014. In December 2014, USFWS found
the petition presented substantial scientific or commercial information that indicated listing the
monarch may be warranted (79 FR 78775). USFWS is currently conducting a full evaluation of
the status of the species and the listing decision is due in December 2020.
Monarchs have a global distribution and North America supports two migratory populations; one
located east of the Rocky Mountains and another to the west. Migratory individuals located in the
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
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west overwinter primarily along the California coast and into northern Baja California. The
location and structure of these sites provide the specific microclimates needed for survival in the
western overwintering areas. Suitable overwintering groves consist of mature tree species,
including blue gum eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), Monterey pine (Pinus radiata), Monterey
cypress (Hesperocyparis macrocarpa) stands, and others. Adult monarchs require a diversity of
blooming nectar resources to feed on throughout their migratory pathways and breeding grounds
(generally spring, summer and fall). In temperate climates, like western North America, some
monarchs breed at the overwintering sites before dispersing for the spring migration.
The western monarch population has declined by about 97 percent since 2010, and it is estimated
to be less than one percent of its historic size (Xerces 2020, website). Overwintering grove
degradation and loss, breeding/migratory habitat loss, pesticides and climate changes are some of
the largest threats identified. BLEA currently supports an overwintering monarch population
at the northwest portion of the eucalyptus ring at BLEA(largest counted in 2013 with 12,073;
most recent count in 2019 of 741) (Xerces Society 2019). However, the site is in need of
restoration to ensure persistence of the species at this location. The Xerces Society website lists
five key actions that can be implemented immediately to prevent collapse of western monarch
migrations throughout its range including: 1) protect and manage overwintering sites; 2) restore
breeding and migratory habitat in California;2)protect monarchs and their habitat from pesticides;
4) protect, manage and restore summer breeding and fall migration habitat outside of California;
and 5) answer key research questions about how to best aid western monarch recovery (Xerces
2020, website). Implementation of this project directly achieves objectives one through three.
Nipomo Lupine: This species was listed as endangered by the Service in 2000 (65 FR 14888).
Critical habitat for Nipomo lupine has not yet been designated. The Service is in the process of
completing a recovery plan for the species and the draft will be available before the end of 2020.
Nipomo lupine requires coastal dune scrub habitats with a high diversity of annual forbs and the
shrub mock heather (Ericameria ericoides) as the primary indicator species. The entire range of
this narrow endemic consists of 2.4 square kilometers(1.5 miles)located within the stabilized back
dunes west of the Nipomo Mesa, within the GNDC. Almost none of this habitat type remains and
most of it has already been converted to residential and urban development and agriculture.Habitat
loss from development and non-native, invasive species (predominantly veldt grass) are the
primary threats to the species.
There is currently only one known population of Nipomo lupine comprised of several colonies,
now divided by convention into three CNDDB occurrences.Two of the three are extant and located
west of State Highway 1. Occurrence No. 1 is the largest colony of the species and occurs on the
privately owned 1,780-acre Santa Maria Oil Refinery, actively operated by the Phillips 66
Company. This occurrence is not secure from threats, although we do have some ongoing
collaborative research and monitoring projects underway with LCSLO, VFWO, and several other
partners. Occurrence No. 10 is the result of many years of work on the species and is a
successful and self-sustaining outplanting within BLEA. It is actively owned and managed
by LCSLO for perpetuity. Occurrence No. 3 is extirpated and considered historic. However,
LCSLO owns lands with coastal dune scrub habitat within this location and future outplanting is
planned through other funding mechanisms. Implementation of this project is an will bolster
the colonies already established at BLEA (CNDDB Occurrence No. 10) and introduce the
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
species to the newly restored area of coastal dune scrub habitat. It will at least double the size
of the resident colony, thus increasing the overall resiliency and redundancy of the population.
6. Benefits to fish. The project will restore the aquatic habitat in Black Lake. Through the
implementation of this project, 17.02 acres of adjacent freshwater wetland will be restored,
reducing the sedimentation and improving the water quality and flow into Black Lake. Threespine
stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) were once common throughout the lakes in GNDC (Smith
1976). It is likely that many species of fish, including a population of stickleback,persists at Black
Lake since it serves as one of the only perennial sources of freshwater in GNDC. Stickleback along
with other small fish species provide food for birds of prey known in the area. Black Lake has not
been surveyed for fish in recent history;the bioblitz conducted by CCCWS will help to update the
inventory of fish species that occur on the property.
7. Benefits to coastal-dependent or migratory birds. Water brought down through Black Lake
Canyon provides important foraging and roosting sites for many bird species. It is one of the few
migratory corridors that connects the GNDC with other adjacent wildlands. The Southern Pacific
Shorebird Conservation Plan considers from Pismo Beach south to the Santa Maria River Mouth
an area of important wetlands and beaches (Hickey et al. 2003). Goals of this plan include:
removing non-native vegetation and restoring native plant communities of coastal dune systems;
restoring additional wetlands to support migrating, wintering, and breeding populations; and
avoiding further fragmentation and encroachment of wetlands by development. The project helps
to accomplish these goals by restoring valuable coastal dune scrub, freshwater pond, and forested-
shrub wetland habitat for the state endangered willow flycatcher and other coastal-dependent and
migratory birds. Bird species of concern within the Dune Lakes that will benefit from this project
are listed in the table below, which includes a brief description of how the project benefits them.
Table. Coastal-dependent and migratory birds observed within the Dune Lakes that will
benefit from the project
Common Name Scientific Name Federal, State,or Project Benefit
Conservation Plan
Status
Allen's hummingbird Selasphorus BMC; CSC Coastal dune scrub restoration
sasin Secondary Species
American coot Fulica CCWCP Enhancement and restoration of
americana wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
American peregrine Falco peregrinus BMC; SWAP* Restoration of coastal dune scrub
falcon anatum and freshwater marsh
Bewick's Wren Thryomanes CSC Secondary Enhancement and restoration of
bewickii Species forested-shrub wetland
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila CSC Secondary Enhancement and restoration of
caerulea Species forested-shrub wetland
Blue-winged teal Spatula discors BMC;NAWMP Enhancement and restoration of
wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
Bufflehead Bucephala NAWMP Enhancement and restoration of
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National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
albeola wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
California Quail Callipepla CSC Secondary Coastal dune scrub restoration;
californica Species enhancement and restoration of
forested-shrub wetland
California Thrasher Toxostoma CSC Secondary Coastal dune scrub restoration
redivivum Species
Canvasback Aythya BMC;NAWMP Enhancement and restoration of
valisineria wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
Common Goldeneye Bucephala BMC;NAWMP Enhancement and restoration of
clangula wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis CSC Secondary Enhancement and restoration of
trichas Species wetland features; enhancement of
foraging and nesting habitat
Double-crested Phalacrocorax BMC; CCWCP Restoration of waterfowl habitat
cormorant auritus and roosting sites.
Golden eagle Aquila BMC**; SWAP* Restoration of coastal dune scrub
chrysaetos and freshwater marsh
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias CCWCP Enhancement of foraging habitat
Green Heron Butorides CCWCP Enhancement and restoration of
virescens wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
Green-winged teal Anas crecca BMC;NAWMP Enhancement and restoration of
wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
Mallard Anas BMC;NAWMP Enhancement and restoration of
platyrhynchos wetland features; enhancement of
foraging habitat
Northern flicker Colaptes auratus BMC Enhancement of foraging habitat;
enhancement and restoration of
forested-scrub wetland habitat
Northern harrier Circus hudsonius SWAP Enhancement of foraging habitat;
coastal dune scrub restoration
Nuttall's woodpecker Dryobates BMC Enhancement and restoration of
nuttallii forested-shrub wetland
Ruddy Duck Oxyura NAWMP Enhancement of foraging habitat
jamaicensis
Rufous Hummingbird Selasphorus BMC Coastal dune scrub restoration
rufus
Spotted Towhee Pipilo maculatus CSC Secondary Coastal dune scrub restoration;
Species enhancement and restoration of
forested-shrub wetland
Swainson's Hawk Buteo swainsoni BMC; SWAP* Restoration of coastal dune scrub
and freshwater marsh
Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura CSC Secondary Enhancement and restoration of
Species forested-shrub wetland
Western Scrubjay Aphelocoma CSC Secondary Coastal dune scrub restoration;
californica Species enhancement and restoration of
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
forested-shrub wetland
Willow flycatcher Empidonax SE Coastal dune scrub restoration;
traillii enhancement and restoration of
forested-shrub wetland
Wrentit Chamaea CSC Primary Coastal dune scrub restoration
fasciata Species
Conservation Plan Codes: BMC -Birds of Management Concern under Migratory Bird Treaty Act;
BMC** -Birds of Management Concern Focal Species; Coastal California(BCR 32)Waterbird
Conservation Plan-CCWCP; Coastal Scrub and Chaparral Bird Conservation Plan—CSC;NAWMP -
North American Waterfowl Management Plan; SE - State Endangered; SWAP - State Wildlife Action
Plan; and SWAP* - State Wildlife Action Plan Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
USFWS Migratory Bird Program's Birds of Management Concern and Focal Species: The Birds
of Management Concern is a list of species, subspecies, populations, or geographic segments of
populations that warrant management or conservation attention, as identified by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service(USFWS 2011). Birds of Management Concern Focal Species are identified over
the short term to receive specific attention. This project will work towards improving habitat
quality for birds of management concern within BLEA.
Coastal California Waterbird (Bird Conservation Region 32) Conservation Plan (2014): The
project is located within Coastal California Bird Conservation Region (BCR) 32 of the Waterbird
Conservation for the Americas — North American Waterbird Conservation Plan (Kushlan et al.
2002). The Coastal California (BCR 32) Waterbird Conservation Plan addresses conservation
issues and threats to waterbirds within the region(Shuford 2014). This project will directly address
the following threats to loss of habitat integrity: land use practices that increase siltation
accelerating the natural processes of infill and succession; competition for water and climate
change and sea level rise; invasive plant species. The project vicinity provides important foraging
habitat identified by BCR32 plan, including emergent vegetation and shallow waters.
The Coastal Scrub and Chaparral Bird Conservation Plan (2004): The plan highlights that habitat
loss from urban and suburban development has been severe for coastal scrub habitat, due to its
proximity to coastal population centers (Ca1PIF 2004). This project addresses the following
Habitat Protection Recommendations from the plan: Objective 1 -Prioritize coastal scrub sites for
protection and restoration; Objective 2 - Promote coastal scrub and chaparral ecosystem health
(I.e., a self-sustaining, functioning system); and Objective 3 - Design and implement restoration
projects that mimic the diversity and structure of natural shrubland plant communities.
North American Waterfowl Management Plan Update (2018): This project will work towards
enhancing and restoring habitat for mallards, green-winged teals, goldeneyes, blue-winged teals,
canvasback, and buffleheads.
California State Wildlife Action Plan(2015): The SWAP identifies species that would benefit from
the conservation strategies for each target within the province (CDFW 2015). Species in the State
Wildlife Action Plan that will benefit from this project are Swainson's hawk, golden eagle, and
American peregrine falcon. These species are the focus of the conservation strategies and will
benefit from the coastal dune scrub and freshwater marsh restoration completed by this project.
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
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8. Prevent or Reduce Contamination. LCSLO acquired BLEA and the conservation easement on
the neighboring property, Dune Lakes, to protect the unique and important wetlands (and other
unique habitats) in the area(Figure 5). Due to the agricultural development in Black Lake Canyon
and the surrounding Nipomo Mesa,wetlands are experiencing increased pressures from a declining
water table, as well as increased nutrient loads into the system. Surface runoff likely contains
pesticide residue and other contaminants associated with adjacent agriculture and residential
developments. In addition to these pressures,invasive plants threaten type conversion from coastal
dune scrub habitat to non-native monocultures, jeopardizing important ecological functions and
successional habitat movements. Implementation of the project will address contaminant issues by
restoring the freshwater marsh hydrological functions,filtering contaminants from agricultural and
State Highway 1 runoff. This project will also protect the ability of Black Lake to be a source of
perennial water by recontouring wetland areas and removing hydrophytic vegetation and
bioaccumulation within the system. This will reverse the trend of sedimentation and infill that is
leading to less water availability and reduced groundwater recharge. Contaminants that this project
will contribute to reducing are located in the table below.
Table. Project contribution towards reducing contamination
Contaminant or Water Quality Impact Project Benefits
Sedimentation/Wetland loss Recontour wetland and remove overgrown
hydrophytic vegetation to restore hydrology and
prevent wetland loss.
Contaminants from Highway 1 runoff Restored wetland habitats will filter out
contaminants in runoff from Highway 1
Invasive exotics This project will remove large populations of
veldt grass, Saharan mustard,iceplant, and other
overgrown invasives
Nutrients(Nitrogen and Phosphorous) Improving hydrology of wetlands to filter and
remove nutrients from surrounding agriculture in
Black Lake Canyon
9. Catalyst for future conservation. This project will directly prepare LCSLO to effectively
implement similar projects in the area. LCSLO owns multiple properties within Black Lake
Canyon, the coastal wetlands that feed into Black Lake. LCSLO also holds a conservation
easement on the neighboring property (Dune Lakes Limited) which contains other coastal dune
lakes. We plan to apply for future grant funding to carry out similar projects on LCSLO-owned
Black Lake Canyon properties and at Dune Lakes Limited. Dune Lakes Limited has already been
consulted and is interested in participating. We will be able to learn from this project and
successfully implement the project on adjacent coastal wetlands. The momentum built from
implementing these projects will allow us to encourage major reconstruction of the Highway 1/
Railroad culverts to allow more natural flow to Black Lake through the Black Lake Canyon.
LCSLO is collaborating with Monarch Alert and their research efforts to collect Monarch
overwintering microhabitat characteristics at BLEA. This collaboration and the restoration
implemented through this funding, will lead to important data about how best to protect
overwintering sites. This will allow LCSLO to apply for additional Monarch conservation grants
to continue and expand Monarch conservation at BLEA and the surrounding overwintering sites.
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
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LCSLO is involved in a complex-wide effort to manage rare and diverse habitats. This includes
direct management of multiple projects on the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife
Refuge. Projects range from coastal wetland enhancement for the protection of the federally
threatened California red-legged frog and the federally endangered La Graciosa thistle,to foredune
habitat enhancement for Western Snowy Plovers and rare dune plant species. LCSLO also
oversees restoration projects at Point Sal County Park. LCSLO's proven track record in
implementing coastal wetland and coastal dune habitat restoration will be leveraged to continue to
apply for grants and restoration work. The partnerships made implementing these projects have
expanded our expertise and strengthened our ability to apply for diverse funding sources.
10. Partners in conservation. Funding and resources for the project have been committed by CDFW
OSPR, Dunes Collaborative Restoration Task Force, SCC, the USFWS Coastal Program,
California Native Plant Society-San Luis Obispo Chapter, California Central Coastal Wildlife
Society, and LCSLO. The total match amount is $345,481 of which $330,361 is cash match. The
following table lays out the contribution details. For letters of support please see Appendix A.
Organizations/individuals providing Project Contribution Monetary/In-kind amount
match
California State Coastal Conservancy Cash $73,500
(State)
California Department of Fish and Cash $94,758
Wildlife,Office of Spill Prevention and
Response(State)
Dunes Collaborative Restoration Task Cash $157,103
Force(State)
USFWS Coastal Program(Federal) Cash $2,500
California Native Plant Society—San Cash/in-kind $500 cash/$7,500 in-kind
Luis Obispo Chapter(Local)
California Central Coast Wildlife Society Cash/in-kind $2,000 cash/$1,120 in-kind
(Local)
The Land Conservancy of San Luis In-kind $6,500
Obispo County(Local)
Total $345,481
11. Federal share reduced. The required non-federal match is $232,598. In-kind match is provided
in the amount of$15,120 and federal match is provided in the amount $2,500. Non-federal cash
matching funds in the amount of $327,861 will contribute $95,263 in excess of the minimum
requirement, significantly reducing the federal share.
Table. Project Costs and Match
Total project costs $930,390
Required State match $232,598
Additional non-federal cash contribution $95,263
Percent increase over required match 41%
12. Education/outreach program or wildlife-oriented recreation.A large portion of the Guadalupe
Nipomo Dunes coastal wetlands are privately owned and do not allow public access. The
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
preservation of BLEA by LCSLO offers a unique chance for the community to access and learn
about these coastal wetlands. LCSLO will provide two docent-led hikes, of approximately 100
individuals,annually for the general public.These hikes will educate participants in the importance
of coastal wetlands as habitat for wildlife and how truly special California coastal wetlands are.
LCSLO will also organize annual docent-led hikes with the local California Native Plant Society
(CNPS) and the California Central Coast Wildlife Society (CCCWS) (approximately 130
additional participants). CNPS San Luis Obispo will work with LCSLO to implement one public
volunteer event for three years to manage invasive plant species and collect native seed. In
addition, CCCWS will contribute professional services to conduct a one-day bio blitz of the site
to provide an updated inventory of wildlife species utilizing the site (4 professionals).
During the implementation of this project, LCSLO will work directly with California Polytechnic
University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), and Monarch Alert to implement Monarch overwintering
microhabitat research. Cal Poly and Monarch Alert are working to describe specific microclimate
characteristics of established monarch overwintering sites. This research will provide important
restoration recommendations and help protect Monarch butterflies as their populations decline.
LCSLO will work directly with researchers to prescribe enhancements for the monarch
overwintering site at BLEA.
Other research projects will directly benefit from the restoration implemented through this project.
Cal Poly is currently studying how small mammals are adapting to invasive plant species pressures
in the coastal dune habitats. Both the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) and
Brigham Young University(BYU) are actively studying rare species found at Black Lake. UCSB
is studying the microhabitats needed for the success for the federally endangered Nipomo lupine
(threatened by perennial veldt grass invasion) and BYU is researching potential hybridization
different Chenopodium species, including Coastal goosefoot, to create sustainably-grown quinoa
in the United States.
13. Other Factors. The Central Coast region of California supports a broad range of unique habitat
types and many special status species. These communities and the species that utilize them are
also some of the most threatened because of population growth and urban development, increased
pressures from agriculture, recreation and tourism, as well as sea level rise and climate change.
Additional project benefits are listed in the table below.
Table. Project contribution towards other factors.
Other Factors Project Benefit
Coastal Dune Scrub Remove non-native invasives and plant natives to
restore coastal dune scrub habitat. Restoration will
expand habitat for the endangered Nipomo
Lupine,creating expansion and redundancy for
the species at BLEA
Rare Plants Coastal dune scrub plant palette will include
outplanting of California Native Plant Society rare
plants
Monarch Overwintering Grove Project will work with monarch experts to
strategically remove dead/dying hazard trees and
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Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
restore nectare sources for overwintering
monarchs.
Coastal dune scrub habitat (or central dune scrub) is recognized as a sensitive plant community
within the CNDDB because of its inherently limited distribution and the small geographic extent
that remains. It is estimated that as much as 90 percent of the historic extent of this vegetation type
has been lost to development and agriculture. Most of the remaining coastal dune scrub habitat
occurs on private lands and it's estimated that less than 10 percent is afforded any conservation
status or protections. Loss of this habitat type is particularly severe because of its proximity to
coastal population centers throughout the state(Ca1IPF 2004).More isolated stands of coastal dune
scrub southeast of the project site were recognized as Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas
(ESHA)by the California Coastal Commission during permitting processes associated with private
development projects. Coastal dune scrub is a later-successional plant community, as opposed to
the vegetative stands that are present within the open sand along the beach and in the immediately
adjacent foredune communities. This habitat type is extremely dynamic and diverse, and the
species composition is highly variable depending on the amount of annual rainfall, level of
disturbance, current land use and/or management regimes, successional stage of development and
degree of infestation from non-native invasive species; especially perennial veldt grass. Coastal
dune scrub habitats support many rare, threatened and endangered plant and wildlife species and
harbor tremendous biodiversity. Implementation of this project will ultimately restore 21.04 acres
of this sensitive and unique plant community that will be conserved and managed for perpetuity.
Future activities include outplanting of federally endangered Nipomo lupine, after the coastal dune
scrub habitat is effectively restored. Expansion of the population previously established onsite is
highly desirable and important to this species recovery because it will increase resiliency within
the population. In this context, species resiliency refers to the ability of the population to withstand
stochastic disturbance events and relates to its capacity to bounce back and persist.
Flowering native species will be selected to provide nectar plants for monarchs in the fall and
winter months, which is critical to their life cycle. Examples of nectar plants for this component
of the project include: California Native Plant Society, Rare Plant Rank(CRPR) List 1B.2 - crisp
monardella; CRPR List 1B.2- San Luis Obispo monardella;mock heather(Ericameria ericoides);
and coastal buckwheat (Eriogonum parvifolium). California native, overwintering trees will be
planted along the northwest portion of the eucalyptus ring to provide future monarch overwintering
locations. Suitable trees include Monterey cypress (Hesperocyparis macrocarpa) and Monterey
pine (Pinus radiata).
28
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Drawings/Maps/Photo2raphs
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Figure 1. Black Lake Ecological Reserve Site and Vicinity Map.
29
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Black Lake Ecological Area
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Figure 2. Location of project activities within BLEA.
30
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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31
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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32
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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Obispo County within Black Lake Canyon and Dune Lakes.
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33
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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Figure 7. Coastal dune scrub habitat at Black Lake Ecological Area.
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in foreground shows monoculture of non-native, invasive vegetation.
34
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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35
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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36
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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37
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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marsh and depicts the overgrown, encroaching hydrophytic vegetation.
38
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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planted at this location.
39
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
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40
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
Appendix A — Letters of Support
hailing:PC.Box 122:.. .Son Luis Obispo.CA 93.105
LAI\ID Office:1137 Pacific Shiest.Sidle A.Son Luls Obispo-.CA.93401
CON3FRVANCY
a..� '"-e.-", soy 541 9096
soy 544 5122
■ IG los1o.arg
}r s • Iclo.arsl
June 22,2020
Mr.Tim Duff
Project Specialist
California Coastal Conservancy
1515 Clay Street, 106 Floor
Oakland,CA 94612-2512
RE; Letter of Support and Commitment far the Black Lake Ecological Area
Habitat Restoration Project
Lear Mr,Duff,
'rhe Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County (LCSLO) supports the proposed
restoration of the Black Lake Ecological Arca, As one of the most unique and
ecologically diverse habitats in California, the enhancement and long-term protection of
this ecosystem is critical, not only for ils diversity and rarity but also as a refuge for
critically imperiled species such as marsh sandwort (Ar-enario pufudicola), La Graciosa
thistle (Crrsirrm $corioston var, loncholep/s), and Nipomo lupine (Lapiraur nupvmensis),
among other rare and endangered botanical and wildlife species.
This leiter further ducumcnts the in-kind support that I.CSL.O will provide the State
Coastal Conservancy in support of the project. Specifically, LCSLO has committed to
providing $6,.500 in in-kind match for planning and permitting prepaeation for this
proposal.
1 hank p u,
aila Dettrnan
Executive Director
The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County
SAVING SPEC IAL RACES SINCE 1994
L21, 1 T 1,-. ,,,,.. A,o,
CAL POLY
'AN LUIS OBISPO
California Polytechnic Siam Lfnivccnit!
BialogLal5ciencei Department
San Lois Obispo.,CA 934i}7.0181
85g)no-i788•OA)7 -itiR
June 8, 2020
Mr. Tim Duff Project Specialist
California coastal CCI1Sefriatley
1515 Clay Sheet, 1061 Floor
Oakland, CA 94-612-2512
Re: Letter of Support and Commitment for the Black Lake Ecological Area Habitat
Restoration Project
Dear Mr_ Duff,
I am writing you today to express my strong support for the allocation of National Coastal Wetland
Conservation Grant funds for the habitat restoration and enhancement of Black Lake Ecological Area_
As one of the most unique and ecologically diverse habitats in California the enhancement and long-
term protection of this ecosystem is critical,not only for its diversity and rarity,but also as a refuge for
critically imperiled species such as the Monarch butteifly (Danaus piaxrppus), among other rare and
endangered botanical and wildlife species.
This letter further documents the in-kind support that I will provide the State Coastal Conservancy in
support of the project_ Specifically: coir nittiiig the following:
• Providing professional services pertaining to current Monarch Butterfly overwintering research
and data driven input on restoration activities.
Sincerer.
91,24e_Zi ` `4 4
Francis Villablanca, Ph_D.
Professor, Biological Sciences
805-756-2200
fvillabl@calpoly.edu
IVf_onarch A lert.calpoly.edu
ICALIFORNIA
CEhTiLL C0i11CHAPTCR
Ni161
LF 1X1
WILDLIFE
SOCIETY
June 11,2020
NIL Tim Duff, Project Specialist
California Coastal Conservancy
1515 Clay Street, 10th Floor
Oakland, CA 94612-2512
Re: Letter of Support and Commitment for the Slack Lake Ecological Area Habitat Restoration Project
Dear Mr_ Duff,
The California Central Coast Chapter of The Wildlife Society fully supports the allocation cif National
Coastal Wetland Conservation Grant funds for the restoration and enhancement of Black Lake
Ecological Area_ The larger Guadalupe-N i porno Dunes Complex that Black Lake is part of support
many sensitive pJant and animal species and rare habitat but is threatened by lowering groundwater,
climate change, and invasive species.This project will rehabilitate and maintain the ecosystem
functions and species around Black Lake, is well designed,.and is aligned with the goals of our Chapter.
In addition,the Chapter is offering financial support with a contribution of$2,000 to this effort and the
Chapter Board Members are offering our professional services for conducting a one-day bio blitz of the
site to provide an updated inventory of wildlife species utilizing the site (estimated value of $1,120,
four experts for one day).
Sincerely,
•
F
Sara Snyder
President of the California Central Coast Chapter of The Wildlife Society
presid ent_cccctws gma i I_corn
925-381-4890
CALIFORNIA
NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY
June 14, 2020
Mr_ Tim Duff, Project Specialist
California Coastal Conservancy
1515 Clay Street_ 10th Floor
Oakland.,~CA 94612-2512
Re: Letter of Support and Commitment for the Black Lake Ecological Area
Habitat Restoration Project
Deal Mr. Duff.
The California Native Plant Society, San Luis Obispo Chapter (CNPS SLO) supports the
proposed restoration of the Black Lake Ecological Area LEA). As one of the most
unique and ecologically diverse habitats in California, the e-ubanceinent and long-term
protection of this ecosystem is critical, not only for its diversity and rarity, but also as a
refuge for critically imperiled species such as marsh sands ort (Arenarza paludicofa), La
Graciosa thistle (Cirsium scarrwsum var_ lonchoiepis), and Niponio lupine (Lupines
wpcmensir), among other rare and endangered botanical and wildlife species.
This letter further documents the in-kind support that CNPS SLO will provide the State
Coastal Conservancy in support of the project. Specifically, CNPS SLO has committed to
the following:
• Contributing $500 in cash-match funding to be paid over the course of three years
and applied directly to materials, services, andJor labor required for the proposed
proj ect
• Organizing one volunteer work day annually for three years, which will be
focused on manual removal of invasive species and, as needed, native ryeed
collection to be used in restoration efforts. Up to 125 volunteer hours at $20 per
hour will be provided annually, for a total of$7,500 ($2,500 annually) of in-kind
sen-ice}.
CNPS is c oaunitted to the conservation of native plants and their natural habitats, and is
excited to be a partner on this important project.
Sincerely.
Kristen Nelson, Vice President
California Native Plant Society, San Luis Obispo Chapter
CATS San Luis Obispo Chapter, P.O. Box 784, San Luis Obispo, C4 93406
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
REFERENCES
[Cal-IPC] California Invasive Plant Council. 2020. Ammophila arenaria Profile-Invasive Plant
Council. California Invasive Plant Council,Berkeley, California. Available on the internet
at <https://www.cal-ipc.org/plants/profile/ammophila-arenaria-profile/>. Accessed March
26, 2020.
[Ca1PIF] California Partners in Flight. 2004. Version 2.0. The Coastal Scrub and Chaparral Bird
Conservation Plan: a Strategy for Protecting and Managing Coastal Scrub and Chaparral
Habitats and Associated Birds in California (J. Lovio, lead author). PRBO Conservation
Science, Stinson Beach, CA. http://www.prbo.org/calpif/plans.html.
[CDFW] California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2015. California State Wildlife Action Plan,
2015 Update:A Conservation Legacy for Californians. Edited by Armand G. Gonzales and
Junko Hoshi,PhD.Prepared with assistance from Ascent Environmental,Inc., Sacramento,
CA.
Hickey, C., W.D. Shuford, G.W. Page, and S. Warnock. 2003. Version 1.1. The Southern Pacific
Shorebird Conservation Plan: A strategy for supporting California's Central Valley and
coastal shorebird populations. PRBO Conservation Science, Stinson Beach, CA.
Kofron, Christopher P., 2019. The Dune Lakes in central coastal California: Why are they dry?.
Lakes &Reservoirs:Research &Management, 24(2),pp.190-194.
Kushlan, James A., Melanie J. Steinkamp, Katharine C. Parsons, Jack Capp, Martin Acosta Cruz,
Malcolm Coulter, Ian Davidson, Loney Dickson, Naomi Edelson, Richard Elliot, R.
Michael Erwin, Scott Hatch, Stephen Kress, Robert Milko, Steve Miller, Kyra Mills,
Richard Paul, Roberto Phillips, Jorge E. Saliva, Bill Sydeman, John Trapp, Jennifer
Wheeler, and Kent Wohl. 2002. Waterbird Conservation for the Americas: The North
American Waterbird Conservation Plan, Version 1. Waterbird Conservation for the
Americas, Washington , DC, U.S.A . , 78 pp.
[1 LCSLO 2018] The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County. 2018. Dune Protect Areas
Network 1.0 - Creating a Blueprint for Restoration in the Guadalupe Nipomo Dunes
Complex: Restoration Plan.
[2 LCSLO 2018] The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County. 2018. Dune Protect Areas
Network 1.0 - Creating a Blueprint for Restoration in the Guadalupe Nipomo Dunes
Complex: Work Plan.
Leslie,Kaytlyn.2017.Most California communities have moved on from drought restrictions.Not
Nipomo. The Tribune, San Luin Luis Obispo, CA.
Lund, Jay, Medellin-Azuara, J., Durand, J. and Stone, K. 2018. Lessons from California's 2012-
2016 drought. Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management, 144(10),
p.04018067.
45
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
[OEHHA] California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. 2019. Precipitation.
OEHHA. Available online at: https://oehha.ca.gov/epic/changes-climate/precipitation.
Nipomo Community Services District. 2017. Nipomo's Severe Water Shortage Condition
Continues — Nipomo Area Water Purveyors Encourage Nipomo Residents to Continue
Conserving. Available online at: http://ncsd.ca.gov/wp-
content/uploads/2014/03/170623 NMMA-Water-Shortage-Statement-l.pdf.
[NAWMP] North American Waterfowl Management Plan Committee. 2018. North American
Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) Update: Connecting People, Waterfowl, and
Wetlands.
Pickart, Andrea. 1988. Overview Dune Restoration in California: A Beginning. Ecological
Restoration, 6(1), pp. 8-12.
San Luis Obispo County. Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance. Title 23 of the San Luis Obispo
County Code. Adopted by the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors March 1,
1988, Ordinance No. 2344. Certified by the California Coastal Commission October 7,
1986.
Shuford, W. D. (author and editor). 2014. Coastal California (BCR 32) Waterbird Conservation
Plan: Encompassing the coastal slope and Coast Ranges of central and southern California
and the Central Valley. A plan associated with the Waterbird Conservation for the
Americas initiative. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 8, 2800 Cottage Way,
Sacramento, CA 95825.
Smith, Kent A. 1976. The Natural Resources of the Nipomo Dunes and Wetlands. California
Department of Fish and Game.
Terra Verde Environmental Consulting. 2020. Re: Black Lake Canyon CRLF? Email forwarded
to Kristie Scarazzo, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ventura, California from Lindsey
Roddick, Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County, San Luis Obispo, California
personal communications on subject from Brook Langle, Terra Verde Environmental
Consulting, San Luis Obispo, California. Forward date: May 29, 2020.
[USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1998. Recovery Plan for Marsh Sandwort
(Arenaria paludicola) and Gambel's Watercress (Rorippa gambelii). Region 1, U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, Portland, Oregon.
[USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2000. Proposed Guadalupe-Nipomo National
Wildlife Refuge.
[USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002. Recovery Plan for the California Red-
legged Frog (Rana aurora draytonii). Region 1, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Portland,
Oregon.
46
Black Lake Canyon Ecological Area Habitat Restoration
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
[USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. November 2011. Birds of Management
Concern and Focal Species. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Migratory Bird Program.
[USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2016. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National
Wildlife Refuge: Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment.
Ventura, CA. August 2016.
[USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2018. Draft Strategic Conservation Plan and
Advisory Mitigation Guidance for the California Red-legged Frog. Ventura Fish and
Wildlife Office, Ventura, California.
[USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2019. Recovery Plan Amendment for Marsh
Sandwort and Gambel's Watercress. Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, Ventura,
California.
[1 USFWS]United States Fish and Wildlife Service.2020.U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service National
Wetlands Inventory — Surface Waters and Wetlands. Online mapping tool. Available
online at: https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/data/Mapper.html.
[2 USFWS] United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2020. Draft Recovery Plan for Nipomo
Lupine (Lupinus nipomensis). In Review. Region 8, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Sacramento, California.
Xerces Society. 2019. Western Monarch Thanksgiving Monarch Counts [Data file]. Maintained
by the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. Portland, Oregon.
Xerces Society. 2020. Western Monarch Call to Action. Available online at:
https://xerces.org/publications/fact-sheets/western-monarch-call-to-action.
47
OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION
I, JESSICA MATSON, City Clerk of the City of Arroyo Grande, County of San Luis
Obispo, State of California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury, that the attached
Resolution No. 2025-009 was passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City
Council of the City of Arroyo Grande on the 11th day of February, 2025.
WITNESS my hand and the Seal of the City of Arroyo Grande affixed this 14th day of
February, 2025.
je, —)...suilwa...:cwe....._,(......}.....r.13%....._4,.....
J SICA MATSON, CITY CLERK