COASTAL CONSERVANCY. Staff Recommendation June 5, 2008 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS

Transcription

1 COASTAL CONSERVANCY Staff Recommendation June 5, 2008 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS File No Project Manager: Deborah Hirst RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorization to disburse up to $164,000 to Smith River Alliance Inc., to work in coordination with Tolowa Dunes Stewards, and to complete prerestoration surveys and project permitting for dune restoration in Tolowa Dunes State Park and Lake Earl Wildlife Area, and to develop a coastal access strategy for Tolowa Dunes, Lake Earl Wilderness Area, and Point Saint George in Del Norte County. LOCATION: Tolowa Dunes State Park, Lake Earl Wildlife Area, and Point Saint George, in Del Norte County (Exhibit 1). PROGRAM CATEGORY: Public Access and Resource Enhancement EXHIBITS Exhibit 1: Project Location and Site Map Exhibit 2: Aerial Map of Tolowa Dunes to Point St. George Area Exhibit 3: Tolowa Dunes State Parks Restoration Project Map Exhibit 4: Lake Earl Wildlife Area Vegetation Map Exhibit 5: Letters of Support RESOLUTION AND FINDINGS: Staff recommends that the State Coastal Conservancy adopt the following resolution pursuant to Sections , and of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code: The State Coastal Conservancy hereby authorizes disbursement of an amount not to exceed $164,000 (one hundred sixty-four thousand dollars) to Smith River Alliance Inc. to work in coordination with Tolowa Dunes Stewards to complete pre-restoration surveys and project permitting for dune restoration in Tolowa Dunes State Park and Lake Earl Wildlife Area, and to develop a coastal access strategy for Tolowa Dunes, Lake Earl Wilderness Area and Point Saint George, in Del Norte County. Prior to the disbursement of any funds, the Smith River Alliance, Inc. shall submit for the written approval of the Conservancy s Executive Officer a work program, budget and the names and qualifications of any contractors it intends to employ for the project.

2 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS Staff further recommends that the Conservancy adopt the following findings: Based on the accompanying staff report and attached exhibits, the State Coastal Conservancy hereby finds that: 1. The proposed authorization is consistent with the purposes and objectives of Chapters 6 and 9 of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code, regarding enhancement of coastal resources, and implementation of a system of accessways along the coast. 2. The proposed project is consistent with the Project Selection Criteria and Guidelines, last updated by the Conservancy on September 20, The proposed project will serve greater than local needs. 4. Smith River Alliance, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization, with a mission consistent with the purposes and objectives of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code. PROJECT SUMMARY: The proposed authorization of $164,000 will enable Smith River Alliance Inc. ( SRA ) to work in coordination with Tolowa Dunes Stewards on two projects to: 1) complete habitat and archaeological surveys and permitting for dune restoration in Tolowa Dunes State Park and the Department of Fish and Game s ( DFG ) Lake Earl Wildlife Area, and 2) develop a coastal access strategy for Tolowa Dunes, Lake Earl Wilderness Area, and Point Saint George in Del Norte County (the project area ) (Exhibit 2). The proposed project will increase public access and resource protection for the natural, cultural and recreational values of the project area, and leverage grants the SRA has already secured from the Coastal Commission s Whale Tail program (CCWT) and the National Parks Service s Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program (RTCA) for these goals. Dune Restoration The proposed authorization will enable SRA to work with DFG and the California Department of Parks and Recreation ( DPR ) to complete archaeological surveys, prepare environmental documentation and obtain permits for future restoration activities on 186-acres of coastal dune habitat on DFG property surrounding the breach site of Lake Tolowa and adjacent DPR property at Tolowa Dunes State Park ( TDSP ) (Exhibits 3 and 4). This dune area is infested with an introduced species, European beach grass, Ammophila arenaria ( ammophila ), which negatively impacts the native dune ecosystem by suffocating native dune plants. Removal of the invasive ammophila will benefit the unique California populations of threatened silvery phacelia, Phacelia argentea, other native dune plants, animals, and the endangered Oregon Silverspot Butterfly. The proposed authorization will provide funding for environmental review and necessary archaeological surveys pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA ), and will facilitate application for a Coastal Development Permit for dune restoration on DFG and DPR property. DPR anticipates receiving $1.5 million in grants for mechanized dune restoration work in TDSP in DFG will be actively seeking additional funding for similar enhancement work on their bordering dune property at Lake Earl Wildlife Area ( LEWA ). The Page 2 of 9

3 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS SRA will coordinate with DPR and DFG on the future restoration work to provide volunteer support for hand-pulling of ammophila in the most sensitive project areas where mechanical removal of the invasive species is not possible. The restoration work may be implemented in phases with funding from the Conservancy, DFG and other sources. The Coastal Development Permit for the entire dune restoration area is anticipated to last for five years and the CEQA review may be effective for the next ten years which will allow for restoration in phases as funding can be secured for the entire 186 acres. Coastal Access Strategy The proposed authorization will enable SRA to develop a coastal access strategy. The project area spans 12 miles of coastline, over 30 miles of largely unnamed trails, and 11,000 acres of State and locally protected public land, however, the area is now underutilized due to the lack of a comprehensive map and little public awareness of access opportunities and resource protection needs. The proposed project will produce an access enhancement strategy, a comprehensive trail and access map and a website promoting the project area as a visitor destination. SRA will hold a series of meetings, coordinated with RTCA, to gather input on access enhancement from public agency staff and community leaders. The access strategy will also include a proposal for coordinated signage and interpretation for Native American cultural resources such as the Yontucket village and the Point Saint George ( PSG ) Historical District, maritime history of the 1800s Brother Jonathan shipwreck and the St. George Reef Light Station, and the California Coastal National Monument which exists along the Project Area shoreline. The access strategy will include recommendations for future trail and access improvements at LEWA and PSG, and emergency improvements at TDSP which may be implemented with Conservancy support in a Phase II project. DPR s participation in the development of the access strategy will ensure a final document that can be used to support emergency improvements for health, sanitation or resource protection in TDSP prior to a future General Plan process; the Redwood State and National Parks has prioritized TDSP for the development of a General Plan but may not be able to initiate the planning process for the park until 2011 due to funding constraints. The need for a comprehensive trail map, emergency improvements and an interpretive signage may be addressed in the interim period leading up to a full General Plan being developed by DPR. The Smith River Alliance, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of providing for the long-term protection, restoration, and stewardship of natural resources in the Smith River watershed. SRA has successfully conducted habitat restoration and conservation projects with Conservancy support, including the Mill Creek Implementation project. SRA will coordinate on the proposed project with the Tolowa Dunes Stewards ( TDS ), a volunteer-based community group dedicated to stewardship, research and education, protection and restoration of the unique coastal wildlands and wetlands of the Lake Earl coastal lagoon and Smith River estuary ecosystems, including ancient Tolowa Indian village sites. Since its inception in 2005, TDS has engaged over 1,000 participants in interpretive programs and recreational field trips including bird watching, kayaking, plant and bird survey, trail maintenance, trash clean-up and dune restoration events in cooperation with CSP, DFG and the North Coast Redwoods Interpretive Association. Site Description: Page 3 of 9

4 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS Del Norte is California s northern most coastal county and a gateway to the state. The population center of the county, Crescent City, is located just 20 miles south of the Oregon border and offers the largest harbor between Coos Bay and Humboldt Bay. The proposed project area incorporates 11,000 acres of contiguous publicly protected property stretching from the County-owned Point Saint George to the mouth of the Smith River along 12 miles of ocean shoreline including DFG s Lake Earl Wilderness Area and California State Parks Tolowa Dunes State Park. All of the project area lies within the coastal zone. The recreational opportunities of the proposed project area are extensive and the greater Crescent City area as a whole attracts visitors to the wild and scenic designated Smith River, the Redwoods State and National Parks system and the local charm of attractions like the Trees of Mystery, the annual Aleutian Goose Festival and, in 2007, Crescent City s first Tall Ships event. The natural resources found in the project area include a fantastic diversity of plants and wildlife within coastal dune, estuary, wetland, riparian and coastal bluff ecosystems. Two major north/south biological zones overlap the region and provide conditions supporting 21 species of fish, 75 species of mammals and 500 species of flowering plants, including an astounding 325 types of mushroom and fungi. Lake Earl and Lake Tolowa form the largest coastal lagoon system in the western United States. The Lake Earl estuary is a designated Audubon Important Bird Area on the Pacific Flyway and supports a remarkable 300 species of birds. Over 100 species of birds have also been sighted at Point Saint George. Of note, the area s diversity includes 41 federal and/or state endangered, threatened and sensitive marine and land species including the Bald Eagle, Brow Pelican, Peregrine Falcon, Snowy Plover, Stellar s Sea Lion, Red Legged Frog, Oregon Silverspot Butterfly, the Rocky Coast Snail, Tide Water Goby, Western lily, the rare Wolf s evening primrose, Blue-headed Gilia, Marsh Pea, Artic Starflower, and the endemic Silvery Phacelia. The project area also encompasses a wealth of historical, geological, archaeological and cultural resources. The St. George Reef Light Station is visible on a rocky outcrop six miles offshore where it was constructed in 1892, and the Bureau of Land Management s California Coastal National Monument along the coast includes Castle Rock which is the largest coastal island north of the Farralone Islands. Point Saint George is recognized as one of the oldest sites of prehistoric habitation in the northwest and was designated a National Historic District in Field surveys and radiocarbon dating of artifacts indicate that PSG has been a place of habitation as early as 310 B.C., and large shell middens characterize high points on the bluffs overlooking the ocean on this windswept coastal terrace. TDSP is also home to eight major Tolowa village sites estimated to be over 3,000 years old. The proposed project would develop an access strategy including coordinated interpretive signage to protect and educate about these resources. Project History: In 2002, the Conservancy provided funds to the County of Del Norte for the acquisition of the 339-acre Point Saint George property for the protection of the cultural and natural resources of the site and its public access potential including two miles of the California Coastal Trail. As a condition of the acquisition, the County and a Point Saint George Steering Committee conducted a public process and produced the Point Saint George Management Plan (2004). In 2005, the Conservancy funded the Phase I Implementation project to complete the initial recommendations from the plan, including construction of a guardrail to stop off-highway vehicle damage, improvement of existing parking, plans for future bathroom and parking improvements and Page 4 of 9

5 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS development of a cultural resources management plan with recommendations for resource protection and cultural resource interpretation. The proposed project will support the Phase I Implementation project and coordinate efforts to provide access further north, through TDSP and LEWA. Recognizing the significance of the biological resources of Lake Earl and Tolowa Dunes, the California Coastal Commission designated this area as one of the most important wetland complexes and as a key conservation area for the state. The area has been an acquisition priority for DFG since 1975 and since that time 10,000 acres of this coastal area have been purchased by DFG and DPR. The Conservancy has supported the acquisition of lands along the east shore of Lake Earl, and had provided funding to SRA to undertake feasibility and preacquisition work for properties within the 1535-lot subdivision of Pacific Shores for protection of habitat in this area. In 2007, SRA and TDS approached the Conservancy to discuss the need for coordinated efforts across TDSP, LEWA and PSG for habitat restoration and public access. Staff has worked with SRA and TDS to develop the proposed project. Staffs from the National Park Service RTCA program, DPR and DFG, as well as representatives from Del Norte County, Smith River Rancheria and Elk Valley Rancheria have been consulted in the development of the proposed project (See letters of support, Exhibit 5). PROJECT FINANCING: Coastal Conservancy $164,000 NPS Rivers, Trails, Conservation Assistance Program $66,000 Coastal Commission Whale Tail Program $12,000 Smith River Rancheria (In-kind) $ 8,000 Tolowa Dunes Stewards and other agencies (In-kind) $ 60,216 Total Project Cost $ 310,216 Conservancy funds for the access components of the project are expected to be derived from the FY05/06 appropriation to the Conservancy from the Safe Neighborhood Parks, Clean Water, Clean Air, and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2000 ( Proposition 12 ) for development projects north of the Gualala River, Pub. Res. Code (c)(2). Consistent with the purposes of these funds, the SRA would use the Conservancy grant for planning of coastal access in Del Norte County within the Conservancy s jurisdiction. Conservancy funds for the restoration components of the project are anticipated to be derived from the Conservancy s FY07/08 allocation of Proposition 12 for resource enhancement projects north of the Gualala River, Pub. Res. Code (d). Consistent with this section, these funds may be used for the rehabilitation, restoration, enhancement and protection of real property or other actions that benefit fish and wildlife. Conservancy funds for the project will leverage grants SRA has already secured from the Coastal Commission s Whale Tail program (CCWT) and the National Parks Service s Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program (RTCA). Page 5 of 9

6 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY S ENABLING LEGISLATION: The proposed project would be undertaken pursuant to Chapters 6 (enhancement) and 9 (public access) and Section of the Conservancy s enabling legislation, Division 21 of the Public Resources Code. Pursuant to Section 31111, the Conservancy may award grants to nonprofit organizations to undertake plans and feasibility studies. Under Section 31251, the Conservancy may award grants to public agencies and nonprofit organizations for the purpose of enhancement of coastal resources which, because of humaninduced events, or incompatible land uses, have suffered loss of natural and scenic values. The proposed project is consistent with this section in that SRA is a nonprofit organization that will work in coordination with TDS to undertake necessary activities including survey, design and permitting for future dune restoration in coastal Del Norte County where prior land use introduced invasive species now threatening native dune habitat and resulting in loss of natural and scenic values. As required in Section 31252, the proposed project is identified in the Del Norte County Local Coastal Program as requiring public action, as described in the Consistency with Local Coastal Program Policies below. Under Section 31253, the Conservancy may provide up to the total cost of any coastal resource enhancement project. Consistent with this section, the proposed authorization provides approximately half of the financial resources for the project with a match of in-kind contributions provided by California Department of Fish and Game and California State Parks and grants secured by TDS from the Coastal Commission and the National Parks Service. The proposed contribution by the Conservancy was determined based on application of priority criteria and after taking into account other available resources and the matching contributions to the project by other funding sources. Section of the Public Resources Code states the legislature s intent that the Conservancy have a principal role in implementing a system of public accessways to and along the state s coastline. The proposed project will support the development of a plan to improve public access throughout the project area, thus furthering the purposes of Section Under Section , the Conservancy may award grants to a nonprofit organization to develop, operate or manage lands for public access purposes to and along the coastline. Section enables the Conservancy to provide assistance to nonprofit organizations and public agencies in establishing a system of public coastal accessways. Under Section 31409, the Conservancy may also award grants and provide assistance to establish and expand inland trail systems that may be linked to the California Coastal Trail. Consistent with these sections, the proposed project will enable SRA and TDS to develop a comprehensive strategy for public access linking existing public lands and development of the Coastal Trail, which will improve public access to coastal resources in Del Norte County that serve the needs of the local community as well as visitors from outside the region. Under Section the Conservancy may provide up to the total cost of the initial development of public accessways by a nonprofit organization. The Conservancy s contribution Page 6 of 9

7 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS to the project has been determined in consideration of the total amount of funding available for coastal public accessway projects, an evaluation of project eligibility and priority to effectively meet the provisions of the division, and the urgency of the project relative to other eligible projects. Consistent with Section 31408(a), the Conservancy consults with DPR and California Department of Transportation to coordinate the development of the California Coastal Trail. CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY S 2007 STRATEGIC PLAN GOAL(S) & OBJECTIVE(S): Consistent with Goal 1, Objective A of the Conservancy s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will support efforts to obtain consensus and refine the alignment of the Coastal Trail working with local stakeholders and public agencies for the TDSP, LEWA and PSG project area. Consistent with Goal 1, Objective B of the Conservancy s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will plan placement of Coastal Trail signs within existing trails within TDSP and LEWA and PSG, where possible. Consistent with Goal 1, Objective E of the Conservancy s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will support the plans for regional trails along rivers and creeks to connect inland populations to the coast and expand recreational opportunities north of Crescent City in the 11,000-acre project planning area. Consistent with Goal 2, Objective C of the Conservancy s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will support efforts to develop accessways to beach and coastal areas that are currently inaccessible or closed to public use by working with local stakeholders to promote public awareness of and access to trails and resources in TDSP, LEWA and PSG. Consistent with Goal 5, Objective A of the Conservancy s 2007 Strategic Plan, the proposed project will complete environmental documentation and develop permits for future restoration of 186 acres of coastal dune habitat for control of invasive species working with local public agencies in TDSP and LEWA. CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY S PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA & GUIDELINES: The proposed project is consistent with the Conservancy s Project Selection Criteria and Guidelines, last updated on September 20, 2007, in the following respects: Required Criteria 1. Promotion of the Conservancy s statutory programs and purposes: See the Consistency with Conservancy s Enabling Legislation section above. 2. Consistency with purposes of the funding source: See the Project Financing section above. 3. Support of the public: The proposed project is supported by elected officials including Congressman Mike Thompson, Assemblywoman Patty Berg and the Del Norte County Page 7 of 9

8 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS Board of Supervisors, in addition to DPR, DFG, Smith River Rancheria and Elk Valley Rancheria. See Letters of Support (Exhibit 5). 4. Location: The proposed project is located within the coastal zone of Del Norte County. 5. Need: The proposed project would address the need for a strategy for coastal access and recreation while also strengthening volunteer stewardship of resources which would not occur without support from the Conservancy. 6. Greater-than-local interest: The tremendous biological diversity and expanse of coast for recreation in the proposed project area are of interest to regional visitors from California and Oregon in addition to the local community and those visiting from abroad. Additional Criteria 7. Urgency: There is a clear threat to the biodiversity in Tolowa Dunes as invasive ammophila overtakes native silvery phacelia and other native vegetation, and must be addressed quickly and effectively. Concern for protecting Native American cultural resources is also a pressing issue which needs be addressed. 8. Resolution of more than one issue: The proposed project will promote public access and also complete pre-restoration permit and survey work to support stewardship and dune habitat restoration sites. 9. Leverage: Project partners will provide approximately 47% of the total project cost. See the Project Financing section above. 10. Conflict resolution: The proposed project will engage multiple interested groups in a process for identifying and mapping existing trails and appropriate places for a range of recreational activities, while also protecting resources and strengthening stewardship opportunities for the Tolowa Coast area. 11. Innovation: The proposed project will complete permitting and environmental review for future dune restoration on 186-acres. The proposed project will also complete a strategy to promote and improve coastal access and information sharing via web and print media for an 11,000-acre region of State Parks, DFG and County public property. 12. Readiness: The SRA has strong working relationships with public agency landowners and is ready to move forward to complete planning, permitting and environmental review of the proposed projects. 13. Realization of prior Conservancy goals: See the Project History above. 14. Cooperation: SRA and TDS have planned the proposed project with the support of representatives from the local Native American tribes, DPR, DFG, and Del Norte County. CONSISTENCY WITH LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM POLICIES: The proposed project is consistent with the relevant sections of the Coastal Element of the Del Norte County General Plan, which is part of Del Norte County s Local Coastal Program ( LCP ). The LCP was certified by the Coastal Commission on October 12, The LCP identifies the estuaries of Lake Earl and Lake Tolowa, the wetlands of Lake Earl Page 8 of 9

9 TOLOWA COAST ACCESS AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLANS slough, sea cliffs and bluffs from Point Saint George into Crescent City, and coastal sand dunes from Point St. George to the Smith River as principal areas of sensitive coastal habitat (LCP, Section IV. Sensitive Coastal Habitat, p. 49). Consistent with the LCP policies concerning the management of coastal dune habitat, the proposed project will conduct pre-restoration survey and permitting for future removal of invasive species at Tolowa Dunes State Park and Lake Earl Wildlife Area (LCP, Section VI. G. Coastal Sand Dunes, p. 70). The proposed project will also enhance recreational use of the coastal zone recreation area by providing an accurate map of trails and public access features in the project area consistent with LCP, Section III. A. Public Access, (LCP, p. 14). The proposed project will promote coastal and estuarine access by planning and enhancing public access in balance with public safety and the protection of fragile coastal resources, consistent with LCP, Section III. C. (LCP, p.15). COMPLIANCE WITH CEQA: The coastal access strategy component of the proposed project is statutorily exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA ) pursuant to 14 California Code of Regulations Section 15262, in that it involves only planning studies, evaluation and permitting for possible future actions which the Conservancy has not approved, adopted, or funded. It is also categorically exempt under Section 15306, in that it consists of data collection, research, and resource evaluation, which will not result in serious or major disturbance to an environmental resource. The proposed permitting and environmental review work for future dune restoration will consist of data collection and analysis, planning and permitting and is also categorically exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section Upon approval by the Conservancy, staff will file a Notice of Exemption for the project. Page 9 of 9

10 Exhibit 1: Project Location and Site Map Tolowa Dunes State Park, Department of Fish and Game Lake Earl Wildlife Area, and Point Saint George, Del Norte County

11 Exhibit 2: Aerial Map of Tolowa Dunes to Point St. George Area Aerial view north toward Oregon above Lake Tolowa and Lake Earl, Del Norte County Photos from State Park brochures for Tolowa Dunes State Park

12 Exhibit 2: Aerial Map of Tolowa Dunes to Point St. George Area State Park Map of Point St. George to Tolowa Dunes and Lake Earl Area

13 Exhibit 2: Aerial Map of Tolowa Dunes to Point St. George Area View south from Lake Earl toward Point Saint George Point Saint George view north toward Lake Earl

14 Exhibit 2: Aerial Map of Tolowa Dunes to Point St. George Area Tolowa Dunes Stewards kayaking and birding field trips at Lake Earl and Tolowa Dunes

15 Exhibit 2: Aerial Map of Tolowa Dunes to Point St. George Area Silvery phacelia found in Tolowa Dunes Rocky Outcroppings at Point Saint George

16 Exhibit 3: Tolowa Dunes State Parks Restoration Project Map

17 I.A I.A Exhibit 4: Lake Earl Wildlife Area Vegetation Map

18 -_u -- - Exhibit 5: Letters of Support STATE CAPITOL PO. BOX SACRAMENTO, CA PH (916) FAX (916) DISTRICT OFFICES: 50 D STREET, SUITE 450 SANTA ROSA, CA PH (707) FAX (707) N. STATE STREET UKIAH, CA PH (707) FAX (707) TH STREET, SUITE C EUREKA, CA PH (707) FAX (707) ~ssrmhl\! QIalifntuia~rgislatutr PATTY BERG ASSEMBLYMEMBER, FIRST DISTRICT COMMmEES: AGING & LONG-TERM CARE, CHAIR BUDGET SUB #1, HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES, CHAIR BUDGET HEALTH INSURANCE March 25,2008 Chairman Douglas Bosco California State Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 13thFloor Oakland, CA Dear Chairman Bo~: ~ ~ I am pleased to offer my support for Tolowa Dunes Stewards' proposal to support education and restoration resources for Tolowa Dunes State Park, Lake Earl Wildlife Area, and Point St. George. The project area is one of California's coastal gems, with over 11,000 combined acres that includes ten miles of open undeveloped beachfront, ancient sand dunes, pine and sitka forests, and a vast wetlands complex. The 5,500 acre Lake Earl Coastal Lagoon, situated on the Pacific Flyway, provides nesting habitat for thousands of migratory ducks, waterfowl, and songbirds. Eleven federal and state listed threatened and endangered species are-found there as well. The Stewards have a record of successful partnerships with the Department of Fish & Game and State Parks to provide much-needed restoration projects and educational programs. This project will build on that success to protect these resources and increase public education and access to this beautiful area. I urge your favorable consideration of Tolowa Dunes Stewards' proposal. If I can provide any further information, please do not hesitate to co_ntactme. Respectfully, V3~ c&.( PATTY BERG Assemblywoman, 1st District cc: JDeborah'Hirst, Project Manager, State Coastal Conservancy -Susan Calla, Tolowa Dunes-Stewards -- RECEIVED.~'" Printed on Recycled Paper APR' () COAST4LCONSERVANCY OAKLAND. CALIF.

19 Exhibit 5: Letters of Support State of California- The ResourcesAqency DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME NORTHERNREGION 601 Locust Street Redding, CA (530) ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER.Governor April 2, 2008 Chairman Douglas Bosco California State Coastal Conservancy Attention: Deborah Hirst, Project Manager 1330 Broadway, 13th Floor Oakland, CA Dear Chairman Bosco: Support for Tolowa Dunes Stewards Coastal Conservancy Application The Tolowa Dunes Stewards and their partner, the North Coast Redwood Interpretive Association, have worked cooperatively with the Department of Fish and Game (Department) at the Lake Earl Wildlife Area (LEWA) in Del Norte County for several years. Public use programs have been developed by the Tolowa Dunes Stewards on State land (which includes California State Parks and Recreation holdings) at Lake Earl that incorporate guided walks for bird and wildlife viewing, plant identification, and general ecology. These activities promote and highlight the natural resource values of LEWA and surrounding coastal environments. As the Tolowa Dunes Stewards are filling a need for public education on the LEWA, the Department contributes in-kind support for these types of programs by donating public meeting and visitor center space. The Department fully supports the Tolowa Dunes Stewards grant application to the California State Coastal Conservancy for the development of a comprehensive trail/access guide, construction of interpretive signs, and implementation of habitat restoration projects at the LEWA. If you need any further information regarding the Department's support for the Tolowa Dunes Stewards' grant application, please contact Senior Environmental Scientist Supervisor Ms. Karen Kovacs at (707) ec: See Page Two Sincerely, liad $- ~GARY B. STACEY Regional Manager RECEIVED APR Conservi ng Cafi-fomia)5Wi[tffi-feSince1870 \X)ASTALCONSERVANCy 'J t 'J t OAKlAND,CAUF. ~

20 Exhibit 5: Letters of Support Chairman Douglas Bosco April 2, 2008 Page Two ec: Ms. Karen Kovacs Messrs. Richard Callas, Robert Smith, and Charles Bartolotta Department of Fish and Game

21 Exhibit 5: Letters of Support FROM :BRE "'';'''.,- '''''"'.''''~'''''''''_..~ ~ "-"' FFIX NO. : F~b :38PM Pi Stateof California. TheResourcesAgency DEPARTMENTOF PARKSAND RECREATION ~ REDWOODCOASTSECTOR 1111 Second 81. Crescent City, CA (707) Arnold $chwarzenegger,governor RuthColeman,Director February 5, 2008 Deborah Hirst, Project Manager California State Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 131bFloor Oakland, CA Dear Ms. Hirst,: RE: Support for Tolown Dunes Stl."'Wardsproposal to California State Coastal Conservancy 1 am writing to convey my support for the California State Coastal Conservancy funding proposai being submitted by the Tolowa Dunes Stewards, located in Del Norte County. The Stewards have been making significant contributions over the last four years,to coastai conservation, restoration, and education. We at California State Parks welcome the potential opportw1ityfi)r them to work with us, other state and county land managers, and the local Tolowa sovereign nations for an overall planning process to enhance public access and increase interpretive opportunities, as well as ij11plementmore conservation and restoration projects within Tolowa Dunes State Park. ToIowa Dunes State Park is one of our newest parks, established five years ago because of its outstanding. natural and culturdl n:sourees. Unfortunately it is sorely under-funded. This Park currently has only one Ranger and intermittent support staff. It also has no accurate trail map or informational handouts, is without adequate restroom or camping facilities, designated picnic areas, sigi1edtrails, or outdoor interpretive displays. However, be;cause of the dedicated eftorts of the Stewards and our parks' cooperating partner North Coast Redwood Interpretive Association, four years of summer interpretive and educational programs have taken place with more than one thousand visitors attending these events. The Tolowa Dunes Stewards and a corps of dedicated vo1unteers originated from these efforts. The lush naturalbiodiversityof ToIowaDunesState Park deservesfar greaterpublic recognitionand visibilitythan it has receivedso far. This Park also has significantissues, primarilywith invasiveplant" poaching,and illegaloff road vehicleviolations,where a well thought out and plannedpublic educationprogramand interpretivesignagenetworkwouldbe extremelyhelpful. We have alreadycommittedstaff time to work togetherwith Tolowa Dunes Stewardsand the National Park Service's Rivers,Trails~and ConservationAssistanceProgramto develop overall interpretivethemes and an accessenhancementstrategy,whicj:1would be the first step towards increasedpublic awarenessand ~tcwardship.it willhopefullycontributeto more recognitionand figcalsupportat the state level tor this coastalgem and thus will hopefuhy acceleratethe ultimateimplementationof that plan.

22 - nn Exhibit 5: Letters of Support FROM:BRE FAX NO. : Feb :39PM P2 Specifically,toward this proposedproject, we have committedthe time of our staff to the strategy process (Superintendent,SupervisoryRanger, District Landscape Architect,and Interpretive Specialist)and the archeologysurveys ;mdpermits needed for dune restoration (District Archeologistand VegetationManagcmcnt/EnvironmentalSpecialistto oversee survey crews and monitor's and assist with permit applications). We both need and welcomethe State Coastal Conservancy's assistanceas it will co~plemcnt work already in place to enhancerecreationalpossibilities and foster increased stewardshipof this new Park and its rich resources. Thank you for your considerationof this vital work. effbomke, Acting State Park Superintendent Redwood Coast Sector

23 - uun- Exhibit 5: Letters of Support Smith River Rancheria 140 Rowdy Creek Rd, Smith River, CA Ph: (707) Fax: (707) March 4, 2008 Kara Brundin Miller Chairperson [}enise Padgette Vice Chairperson Sharyne R. Harper Council Secretary Deborah Hirst, Project Manager California State Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 13thFloor Oakland, CA Dear Ms. Hirst: Joel Bravo Treasurer Marian Lopez Council Member Brock Richards Council Member Joseph Giovannetti Council Member R.ussCrabtree Tribal \.dministrator This letter, submitted on behalf of the Smith River Rancheria Tribal Council, supports the funding proposal submitted to the State Coastal Conservancy by Tolowa Dunes Stewards and Sandra Jerabek, program manager. This grant if awarded will provide needed funding for interpretation, conservation and restoration projects that will increase appreciation and protection for the ancestral, sacred lands of the Tolowa people in the contiguous area now known as Tolowa Dunes State Park and Lake Earl Wildlife Area. Although these lands are under the management of the state agencies, California State Parks and California Fish and Game, we have been concerned for many years that some of our most sacred areas and village sites have been severely compromised and degraded due to pedestrian and equestrian traffic. This proposal, if accepted, will also provide a process whereby we can address concerns about inappropriate recreational access. When the Rancheria reaches agreement with the other agencies regarding coastal trail alignment at Point St. George, we hope that this area will be connected to the project for the purposes of authentic cultural interpretation. We welcome the opportunity to participate as partners in a process intended to interpret the area as a whole, protect its cultural and natural values, and enhance public access. It is important to us that authentic Tolowa cultural and historic background information as well as Tolowa Waa-saa-ghitlh-'a~ Wee-ni Naa-ch 'aa-ghitlh-ni Our Heritage Is Why We Are Strong

24 Exhibit 5: Letters of Support names of areas and trails are used in the planned publications, website, trails map and access guide, and/or interpretive signage located in appropriate places. Since the entire project area is archeologically significant to the Tolowa, we are pleased that this grant will provide funding for archeological surveys, cultural monitors and permits before any restoration work is initiated. We also concur with the exotic plant removal/restoration work planned under this proposal as vital and necessary to return the dunes to their original configuration, thus rescuing sensitive habitat for native plants and dune species. To demonstrate our support, the Rancheria is pleased to contribute the time of tribal members and staff associated with the Culture Committee to partner in planning for interpretation, conservation and restoration projects during this two year period. Further, we appreciate that the project will compensate tribal cultural monitors during archeological surveys, and would like to offer an in-kind match of monitor services equivalent to about a quarter of the total compensation. Finally, the Rancheria looks forward to the possibility of involving our summer tribal youth employment program when the actual hands-on dune restoration phase of the project is reached. Kara'Brundin Milrer Tribal Council Chairperson Smith River Rancheria RECEIVED MAR COASTALCONSERVANGY OAKlAND,CALIF. Waa-saa-gh;tlh-'a- Wee-n; Naa-ch 'aa-gh;tlh-n; Our Her;tage Is Why WeAre Strong

25 Exhibit 5: Letters of Support (, E.lkValle,y Kancheria, California 2))2 Howland Hill Road Cre~cent Cit'y, CA 955) 1 Fhone: Fax: )8 rancheria@elk-valle'y.com May 8, 2008 Chairman Douglas Bosco California State Coastal Conservancv 1330Broadway, 13thFloor ' Oakland, CA Dear Mr. Bosco: The Elk Valley Rancheria, California, a federally recognized Indian Tribe (hereinafter "Tribe") supports the funding proposal submitted to the State Coastal Conservancy by Tolowa Dunes Stewards and Sandra Jerabek, program manager. The grant will provide the funding necessary for several worthy interpretative, conservation and restoration projects that will increase appreciation and protection of Tolowa Dunes State Park and Lake Earl Wildlife Area. Though today these lands are under the management of California State Parks and California Fish and Game, they are part of our ancestral territory. Many Tribal members have direct connections to the villages in the immediate area, and we are deeply committed to the preservation of these places. Over the years the Tribe has been concerned that our sacred areas and village sites have suffered significant impacts due to several factors including looting, animal grazing and pedestrian and equine traffic. Preservation and planning projects at Tolowa Dunes and Lake Earl Wildlife Area have been historically under funded, and this proposal, if accepted, will facilitate a much needed process whereby we can address concerns about inappropriate recreational access. The Tribe looks forward to working in partnership with the land managing agencies, the Coastal Conservancy, and the Smith River Rancheria on future projects related to cultural and natural resource preservation, archaeological survey, interpretation, exotic plant removal, and public access. The Tolowa Dunes Stewards have put together a well thought out multi-year proposal and we commend their commitment and continued efforts to protect and preserve this very special place. Sincerely, t;:w.~' Dale Miller Tribal Council Chairman Elk Valley Rancheria, California RECEIVED MAY VOASTAlOONSERVANGY OAKlAND,CAlIF.