Minutes November 2021

Posted on November 18, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Meeting Minutes

November 10, 202, 5:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

Crosby Swartz called the meeting to order. A Quorum was established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Bob Fountain, Christine Heinrichs and Harry Farmer, Cambria CSD liaison, acting as a director. Neil Havlik of California Native Plant Society also attended.

Public and Director Comments 

Christine cited a 1999 petition to State Fish and Game Commission to list Monterey Pine as a Threatened Species under the California Endangered Species Act. The petition was withdrawn to address the large volume of comments, but was never resubmitted. Neil said he will ask CNPS members whether they remember this petition. Christine will research through State F&G Commission. In light of research over the years, this might be worth revising and re-submitting.

Cambria received just under half an inch of rain in the recent storm. Rocky Butte got an inch, the most in the county.

Minutes of October Meeting were approved unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura reported that the account balance is $168.50. She will add directors’ donations to cover the insurance on her return to Cambria.

Sub-Committee Reports

       Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations

              CCSD Finance Committee Recommendation to Divest Forest Parcels 

The CSD Board referred the Finance Committee report back to the Finance Committee, which did not approve the report before Committee Chair Tom Gray presented it to the board. Forest Committee directors concurred in hope that the passage on divesting of forest lots will be removed or revised in committee.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group

The Wildfire Preparedness Day video is posted at https://cal-span.org/unipage/?site=slo-span&video=https%3A%2F%2Fslo-span.org%2Fmedia%2Fvideo_files%2FSPEVENT%2FSPEVENT_21-10-09%2FSPEVENT_21-10-09_Cambria-Wildfire-Preparedness.mp4&fbclid=IwAR0TqTAt0lyPyfyViIwWBf3h-tPd16TDlQG7FCHKNGPibJjN9iPuE5txFpU  It includes a Sim(ulation) Table that models fire progression under variable geographic, environmental and weather conditions.

New Business

       Grant Application for Camp Ocean Pines Tree Planting Project   

Harry met with Camp Ocean Pines Executive Direct Andre Boyd-Goodrich and arborist Blair McCormick to discuss the project. The camp needs about 50 trees, and would also like cones and seeds for understory plants to raise their own. Greenspace will sell COP 50 trees for half price, about $250. Laura will write a grant application and present it to the Cambria Community Council November 16.

Unfinished Business

       Discussion – Covell Ranch Fuel Reduction Project & Test Plots

Neil reported that SLO County Fire Safe Council Business Manager Dan Turner invited Neil, Dave Krause and Melissa Mooney to meet on Friday November 15 to review the two test plots they have arranged. Trees smaller than 8 inches DBH will be removed on one and trees smaller than 4 inches DBH on the other. They will explore how the masticator and brushmowers, which remove all vegetation, will be used to discriminate between sizes of trees and understory vegetation. Others may be allowed to see the test plots after work is done.

       Report – CCSD Forest Management Ad Hoc Committee  

Harry reported that the committee is focusing on two goals: Developing an update to the Forest Management Plan and obtaining grant funding to hire a forest manager. Devin Best of Upper Salinas-Las Tablas Resource Conservation District recommended his assistant Andrew Johnson. Directors expressed concern over the influence Cal Fire, Fire Safe Council and their contractor Steve Auten may have over a future forest manager. Directors prefer a forest ecologist who will focus on a healthy forest. Crosby referred to ideas expressed by Charles Darwin 150 years ago, as recounted in a recent scientific publication,

https://theconversation.com/a-150-year-old-note-from-charles-darwin-is-inspiring-a-change-in-the-way-forests-are-planted-170909

Public and Director Comments

The Forest Committee will hold a regular meeting December 8, 5:30 pm on Zoom. Greenspace Board President John Seed will represent in Bob Fountain’s absence.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers

Los Padres Forest Watch: Christine continues to contact Bryant Baker and Chad Hanson regarding holding a public meeting featuring his webinar. They have expressed support in past emails, so the webinar could be scheduled with an announcement to them.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 pm.

Next Meeting December 8, 2021

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Minutes October 2021

Posted on October 17, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes October 2021

October 13, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was Called to Order and a Quorum established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Julie Jorgenson, John Seed, president of the Greenspace Board as substitute for Bob Fountain, and Christine Heinrichs. Harry Farmer, Cambria CSD liaison, and Cambrian Elizabeth Bettenhausen also attended.

The Minutes of the September meeting were approved unanimously as written.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura Swartz reported that the bank balance is $168.60, after paying the Directors Insurance of $541. Directors are encouraged to make appropriate donations to defray those costs. The Forest Committee may consider future fund raisers to support its activities.

Sub-Committee Reports

          Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations

CCSD Finance Committee Recommendation to Divest Forest Parcels: Crosby and Laura submitted comments on behalf of the Forest Committee to the CSD Finance Committee, relevant to the report of the Ad Hoc Committee on Unfunded/Underfunded/Understaffed as follows. He referred to the TDC Document Summary on the Forest Committee web site, http://cambriaforestcommittee.org/buildout-reduction-committee/tdc-document-summary/

We have reviewed the agenda package report on Under-Funded Activities and we have the following comment for your consideration.

The paragraph titled “Vacant Lots owned by the CCSD states ‘Attempt to divest as many of these lots as possible’ and ‘No additional real estate should be accepted by CCSD without guaranteed funding for its maintenance.’

Many of the lots owned by CCSD have Conservation Easements on them. Divesting these lots will require approval by The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo, the California Coastal Conservancy and the County.

The CCSD has committed to acquiring and retiring from development vacant lots in accordance with the Buildout Reduction program and the Transfer Development Credits (TDC) Program. Implementation of these programs will be a condition of approval for water supply related Coastal Development Permits for projects such as the Water Reclamation Facility.

In addition, by providing an opportunity for property owners to sell undeveloped parcels, the BRP and TDC substantially reduce the risk of litigation by such property owners related to the issue of water connections and building permits in the future (from BRP Report, page 4).

The attached TDC Document Summary [http://cambriaforestcommittee.org/buildout-reduction-committee/tdc-document-summary/] lists several documents related to the Conservation Easement/TDC lots. These documents as well as the Memorandum of Understanding between CCSD and LCSLO are available on the Forest Committee website, cambriaforestcommittee.org.

The report from the Finance Committee, written by chair CSD Director Tom Gray is posted at https://www.cambriacsd.org/files/a2d9d35a4/2021+09+28+Final+Finance+Committee+Meeting+Agenda.pdf, pages 5-8. Mr. Gray’s report ignores a statement from the Ad Hoc Committee on Unfunded/Underfunded/Understaffed projects and activities, “As the group began its analysis of the issue, it became apparent that there is insufficient revenue for the District to continue to provide the same services and at the same level as it has been attempting to do or to expand services to meet the additional requests.”

Forest Committee discussion advised against proceeding with efforts for Cambria to divest itself of the vacant lots.

Forest Management

Proposed Tree Planting at Camp Ocean Pines. Laura hasn’t had response from Andrew Boyd-Goodrich, executive director of Cam p Ocean Pines. Harry will reach out to him. They need to walk the property to determine how many trees will be needed.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group: Dave Pierson sent a summary, which Christine will send to directors.

Coastal Commission Hearing on Covell Ranch Fuel Reduction Project, October 15. The Cambria Forest Committee and Greenspace sent comments.

Coastal Commission Hearing on Covell Ranch Fuel Reduction Project: The Cambria Forest Committee and Greenspace sent comments.

California Coastal Commission (via email)                                           October 6, 2021

Central Coast District Office

725 Front Street, Suite 300

Santa Cruz, CA  95060

Subject:  PWP-3-SLO-21-0004-1, October 15, 2021 Agenda Item 21

Dear Commissioners and Staff,

Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on the proposed Covell Ranch Forest Health Fuels Reduction Project in Cambria, CA.

We have reviewed the draft CalVTP Project Specific Analysis, the Coastal Vegetation Treatment Standards in Exhibit A and the Public Works Plan.  We support the project goals of improving the health of the Monterey Pine and Coast Live Oak forest on the Covell Ranch, and we have the following suggestions to improve the long-term results of the project.

The proposed removal of 70 to 80 percent of Monterey Pines and Coast Live Oaks less than 8 inches diameter is excessive.  The PSA states that tree density will be reduced from 500 trees per acre to 200 trees per acre.  Over the 665 acre project, removal of this many trees will have an immediate adverse impact on the health of the forest.

The pine forest on the Covell Ranch is under stress from prolonged drought.  It is unlikely that the projected vigorous regeneration of the forest will occur under current conditions.  Healthy trees of all sizes should be retained to become the large trees of the future and to maximize absorption of CO2.  Only dead and diseased trees should be removed.  Arbitrary goals of trees per acre, minimum trunk diameters and ratios of oaks to pines do not account for local growing conditions and do not advance the goal of a healthy and safe forest.  We recommend that the Commission include a condition of approval to ensure that healthy trees are not removed.

The fire prevention goals of this project are well served by the shaded fuel break and defensible space zones specified in the PSA.  We support the proposed treatments in these areas, and we oppose expansion of defensible space treatments to the remaining areas of the forest.  The goal of this project should not be to create a visually pleasing “park-like” setting, but should be to retain a mosaic of old and young growth with diverse habitat structure to maintain wildlife cover and forage, and prevent soil erosion.

The proposed use of mechanized mastication on an estimated 634 acres of Monterey Pine and Coast Live Oak forest understory is not acceptable.  The resulting extensive disturbance of existing native vegetation and animal habitat will create hotter and dryer conditions in the understory by reducing shaded areas, and will stimulate growth of flammable invasive vegetation such as French Broom, Pampas Grass and dry annual grass varieties.  We recommend that the Commission include a condition of approval to use hand crews to cut and scatter dead branches wherever possible to minimize the collateral damage caused by mechanical mastication.  Use of hand crews to cut up dead branches can be very cost-effective if they are not attempting to duplicate the results of mechanical mastication by cutting down all understory vegetation.

We recommend adding a requirement to create at least two test plots of one acre each prior to beginning full project operations.  These test plots will be used demonstrate the different outcomes of larger versus smaller diameter tree removal criteria, larger versus smaller numbers of retained trees per acre, and the different results of mechanical mastication versus hand crew cutting and scattering dead branches.  Representatives of interested agencies and local organizations should be offered field tours of the test plots, and their observations and recommendations should be used as input to adaptive management of the project operations.

After work is completed on Project Units 1A and 1B, representatives of interested agencies and organizations should be offered field tours of each completed area, as described above.  Similar tours could be offered after work is completed on each Project Unit.  We suggest that interested organizations such as The California Native Plant Society, the Cambria Forest Committee and Greenspace the Cambria Land Trust be included on the field tours.

We suggest that the draft PSA and Attachment F Coastal Vegetation Treatment Standards be modified as necessary to better achieve the project’s long term forest health and fire safety goals, while minimizing unnecessary short and long term adverse impacts to this sensitive habitat area.  As an alternative, the Commission could impose conditions of approval as outlined above.

Yours truly,

Crosby Swartz, President

Cambria Forest Committee

forest@cambriaforestcommittee.org

John Seed, President

Greenspace, The Cambria Land Trust

johnseed@gmail.com

Commission staff responded, https://documents.coastal.ca.gov/reports/2021/10/F21a/F21a-10-2021-addendum-1.pdf, but dismissed the concerns expressed. [On October 15, the Coastal Commission approved the plan as submitted.]

New Business

          Strawberry Canyon: A concerned resident asked John Seed about maintenance at Strawberry Canyon. He is working with Rick Hawley to develop a plan. Harry will invite Mike Rice and Blair McCormick to walk through, advise and provide an estimate. Grant funding for maintenance is possible.

Unfinished Business

          Report and Discussion, CCSD Forest Management Ad Hoc Committee.  CSD Directors Tom Gray and Harry Farmer have arranged a meeting with Devin Best, executive director of the US-LT RCD. Crosby will attend. Mr. Best has suggested hiring a forest manager for the region, who would consult on forest issues.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers

                    Los Padres Forest Watch – Baker and Hanson. Christine will contact them again and ask whether the Forest Committee could show the webinar for the public.

Meeting location: Mechanics Bank is unwilling to allow the Forest Committee to use its community room in future. Directors will ask around about other meeting spaces.

Change in meeting time: Those attending concurred that the Forest Committee should change its meeting time to 5:30 pm.

The meeting was Adjourned at 8:15 pm.

Next Meeting November10, 2021

 

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Minutes September 2021

Posted on September 20, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes September 2021

September 10, 2021, 10:00 AM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was Called to Order and a Quorum established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Bob Fountain, Harry Farmer and Christine Heinrichs. Neil Havlik and David Krause of California Native Plant Society, John Seed, president of the board of Greenspace – The Cambria Land Trust, Mary Webb, former Greenspace board president, Richard Hawley, founder of Greenspace, Kitty Connolly, executive director of Friends of Fiscalini Ranch Preserve and Thomas Loganbill, board president of FFRP, Dan Turner, business manager of the SLO County Fire Safe Council, Hayley Barnes, USLT RCD, Andrew Johnson, USLT RCD, Riley McFarland, assistant forester at Auten Resource consulting, Brandon Sanderson of Cal Fire, Steve Auten, of Auten Resource Consulting, contractor for the Covell Ranch Plan, and Cambrian Elizabeth Bettenhausen.

Presentation on Covell Ranch Project by Steve Auten. He provided an overview of the project. Assistant forester Riley McFarland was the main author, working with Dan Turner of SLO County Fire Safe Council, which hired his firm as the consultant. View video of the meeting here, https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/ImxXBLUXKD593mhR4qN8QuUgDue9kXbghUx4HwkyOk0KYeQrbtI8ChSG0oJxVCfP.Y3Bsf_tzEQr_wgST

His slide presentation is posted on the Home page of the CFC website. The plan will cover the next ten years of management.

He reviewed the history of Cambria’s forest, from 1937, via aerial photos. The forest has been changed by development and affected by the climate crisis. He said the plan seeks to find a balance point for biological resources, treating for a level of heterogeneity. The project develops a set of bounds, with regard to pathogens such as dwarf mistletoe, and available water, archaeological, and biological resources.

Mr. Auten engaged in discussion of various aspects of the plan with Crosby Swartz, Dr. Bettenhausen, Mr. Hawley, Mr. Havlik

Points raised included the plan’s standard of removing Monterey Pine 8 inches in diameter, criteria for removing trees, maintaining forest and understory diversity, and follow-up to monitor regeneration. What criteria will be used to select healthy trees for removal to achieve the Monterey Pine to Coastal Live Oaks ratio, how much understory will be removed, and whether the machinery used will set up the area for mud and debris flow during winter rains were discussed.

Mr. Auten said he was writing down questions to be answered in the future. No meeting date was discussed.

CNPS representatives will be invited to view the work as it proceeds. Mr. Turner said thar the Nature Conservancy, which holds the Agricultural Conservation Easement on the Covell Ranch property, which is privately owned and not open to the public, has been actively involved in the development of the PSA. He said that a Licensed Professional Forester will be on site during all operations.

Mr. Turner said that test plots of at least one acre will be treated, although that condition was not stated in the PSA.

The presentation part of the meeting was concluded at11 am. After a break, a short business meeting resumed.

The Minutes of the August Meeting were approved with Crosby’s changes.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura Swartz reported that the balance remains at $389.20, with $20 in petty cash.

She submitted information for the Director & Officer Insurance policy renewal but hasn’t had a response. She anticipates that costs will be about the same as 2020. The policy expires October 17.

Laura and Crosby are still trying to clear up the information in the IRS master file. While the incorrect entry is not currently an issue, it could affect grant applications.

Sub-Committee Reports:

Tree planting at Camp Ocean Pines. This project could be eligible for Cambria Community Council grant funding. Laura is working with CCOP executive director Andrew Boyd Goodrich to proceed. Seedlings would come from Greenspace. CNPS is invited to participate.

Forest Management

CCSD contractors have not entered Fern Canyon to cut vegetation on the parcels that were included on the district’s list. Since the deadline for weed abatement has passed, no further action is expected.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group:

Crosby and Laura attended. CCSD has included updating the Forest management Plan in its Strategic Plan. Discussion continues as to how Cambria Fire Department could be compensated for taking on Cal Fire’s responsibility for inspecting developed properties. Currently, Cal Fire is charged with inspecting developed properties and CFD undeveloped lots. Cal Fire lacks personnel to do these inspections.

The group will hold a Wildfire Preparedness Day in October.

Video of all fire safe meetings is posted at https://www.247ncep.com/

Unfinished Business

Discuss US-LT RCD Hearing for Public Works Plan & Covell PSA   

Forest Committee, Greenspace and CNPS representatives discussed the presentation and the opportunity to comment at the hearing. The Coastal Zone should have an RCD that considers the special interests of the area, especially with regard to development.

This is one of the first projects authorized under the Cal VTP program. Chad Hanson was quoted in a recent LA Times article questioning these premises of forest management, https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-08-21/california-burning-is-it-time-to-rethink-forest-management This project could be used as a precedent for future projects, so it should be based on sound science.

The Fire Safe Council and Auten Resource Consulting invited CNPS to meet at the site to discuss concerns, but did not invite Greenspace or the Forest Committee.

Oral agreement to conduct test plots lacking written confirmation in the PSA is a concern. Who will comprise the working crews and who will supervise them have not been announced, but could make a difference in how the work is carried out.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers

Los Padres Forest Watch – Executive Director Bryant Baker and scientist Chad Hanson have accepted the Forest Committee’s invitation to speak at a future meeting, but the date has not been set.

The meeting was Adjourned at 11:55.

 

Next Meeting October 13, 2021 (Check for Update)

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Minutes August 2021

Posted on August 14, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Meeting Minutes August 2021.docx

August 11, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was called to order and a Quorum established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Bob Fountain, Harry Farmer and Christine Heinrichs. Neil Havlik of the local chapter of the California native Plant Society also attended.

Public and Director Comments  

Harry Farmer said that the State Water Project has cut water allocations to Central Valley farmers. Neil Havlik clarified that the order applies to those who pump directly from rivers and streams, riparian rights. The Public Trust Doctrine requires that sufficient flow be left to support fish and aquatic life.

Harry said well levels are also dropping. North County vineyards pump water from the water table for irrigation.

The Minutes of the July Meeting were approved as amended.

Laura Swartz gave the Treasurer’s Report. The bank balance is $389.60, plus $20 petty cash.

The IRS Business Master File is not yet corrected. Laura will contact the IRS agent she worked with to get that file updated.

Director & Officer Insurance Renewal: Laura will collect information about the renewal and inform directors of the cost. The premium is due in mid-October.

Sub-Committee Reports

          5.1 Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations

Los Padres ForestWatch Analysis of Bootleg Fire: Crosby sent this document to all directors. The rapid progress of this fire raises questions as to the effectiveness of fuel reduction projects. Ember proofing and defensible space may be more effective in reducing fire spread. Christine will post to the web site.

Swanton Pacific Ranch CZU Fire Analysis: Steve Auten, who is now consulting on Cambria’s Monterey pine forest for the Fire Safe Council, managed the forest at Swanton Ranch. Swanton Ranch was burned down in the CZU Lightning Complex Fire in 2020. The Forest Committee will seek independent sources that can analyze what forest management was done in that area, what effect it had on the fire, and how this might affect management of Cambria’s forest. Mr. Auten has offered to attend the Forest Committee’s September meeting.

Forest Management       

Fern Canyon Parcels on CCSD Weed Abatement Contract List:

Crosby and Laura are in contact with Cambria Fire Department Chief William Hollingsworth regarding forested lots that are on the Weed Abatement List. He has removed the lots from the list in the past but they are on the list again. Nothing is being accomplished by having the contractor clear vegetation in the middle of the forest.

New Business

       Discuss US-LT RCD Draft Public Works Plan for Covell & Other Projects:

Neil Havlik sent a comment letter on behalf of the CNPS, see attached. The letter raised questions about the proposed use of shaded fuel break treatments throughout the forest, removal of healthy trees 8” DBH or smaller and the use of mechanical masticator equipment to remove vegetation.  The letter also recommended doing test plots prior to project implementation to demonstrate the effects of proposed treatment methods.

Crosby said that projects fall into two categories: Fire Prevention and Forest Health. Fire Prevention applies only to defensible space, within 100 feet of structures. Forest Health projects apply to the rest of the forest. Fire Prevention standards should not be generally applied to Forest Health projects.

Fire Safe Council representatives and Mr. Auten invited representatives of the Nature Conservancy, USLTRCD, and CNPS for a tour of the Covell Ranch and agreed to set up some test plots before doing the work. The project will go to a public hearing September 16 followed by a hearing before the Coastal Commission before work can begin.

Public money pays for these projects although the Covell Ranch is private property. Recent research questions whether these fuel reduction projects actually improve fire safety.

The Fiscalini Ranch fuel reduction project cut away more understory than was authorized in its permit. The extensive disturbance of native vegetation, after promises of selective removal, leave forest advocates wary of Fire Safe council project management practices.

CNPS has a working group that meets weekly. They will continue to monitor individual projects.

Crosby will draft a letter for the September 16 USLTRCD hearing and circulate it to directors for approval.

Discuss Alternate Date for September Meeting:

Because of Labor Day weekend, the Forest Committee’s September meeting will be on Friday, September 10 instead of Wednesday, September 8, subject to directors, Mr. Auten, and Greenspace availability. The meeting will be publicized to the general public.

Unfinished Business

          Report and Discussion, CCSD Forest Management Ad Hoc Committee:

Crosby attended the meeting of Tom Gray, Harry Farmer and Devin Best, USLTRCD executive director. The CSD and the RCD might be able to share a forester, making it possible to get a grant to support the position. Cal Poly professor Chris Dicus and retired forestry professor Doug Piirto may have individuals to recommend. Harry found the meeting encouraging.

Public and Director Comments

Harry asked attendees to attend the following day’s CSD meeting and offer comments on Item 7D, evaluating the way the CSD is handling Public Comments.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers

Auten Resource Consulting – Crosby will follow up

Chad Hanson webinar – Christine will follow up

The meeting was Adjourned at 8:03 pm.
Next Meeting 10 am September 10, 2021

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Minutes June 2021

Posted on June 18, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes June 2021

June 9, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was Called to Order and a Quorum established by the attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Julie Jorgenson, Bob Fountain and Christine Heinrichs. Harry Farmer, Cambria Community Services District liaison, Neil Havlik and Melissa Mooney of California Native Plant Society and John Seed of Greenspace also attended.

Minutes of May Meeting were approved as amended.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura Swatz reported that the bank balance is $389.60, with $10 in petty cash. She paid CPA Lynn Singer’s bill for preparing the tax return. Crosby continues to check the IRS Business Master File for the correction to the CFC’s status, which had not yet been made.

Sub-Committee Reports

Smokescreen, Debunking Wildfire Myths to Save Our Forests and Climate webinar is posted here. The link is also posted to the CFC web site.

Screenshare PBS DVD on Zoom: Crosby is working on setting up the technology to show this video.

 Website Domain Name Administrator: Crosby will make this transfer from Paul Nugent to himself.

Forest Management      

       Upper Salinas Las Tablas Resource Conservation District Public Works Plan:

The plan establishes Best Practices for working in the Coastal Zone. It will be presented at the June 15 NCAC meeting.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group:

Comments on the Steve Auten report are due by July 1.

The Fire Safe council is seeking approval from Cal Trans to use herbicide on the broom that is growing along Highway 1.

Phos-Chek Wildfire Home Defense is a consumer product that can reduce flammability of vegetation around homes.

New Business

       Draft Comment Letter on Covell Ranch Fuel Reduction Project:

This report, now posted on the CFC web site, raised many questions. Comments are due by July 1. The Coastal Commission may hold a public hearing on this plan. The Nature Conservancy holds the conservation easement on the Covell Ranch. Enforcing it involves this fuel reduction plan. CNPS wrote and submitted comments, led by Neil and Melissa. Crosby will send draft of comments to directors for advice. Julie will take pictures to illustrate the unintended effects of previous fuel reduction projects

This is the environmental document that Cal Fire and others will rely on for this and future projects. It’s important to get it right. Several attendees questioned the assumptions underlying its recommendations of removing 70-80 percent of the trees, mainly those eight inches or less in diameter, reducing tree density to 200 trees per acre.

The forest is not the same and a fuel break and different standards and treatments should apply.

Removing all young trees reduces diversity of tree ages. Younger trees may be better adapted to changing conditions. Removing the young trees opens the older trees to wind damage.

Use of a masticator is destructive to understory and is rarely justified for use in the forest. Projects should rely on handwork, using masticators and bulldozers only as needed.

Removal of native understory plants in the cause of fuel reduction results in loss of habitat for native wildlife. Replacement vegetation is grass, which is more flammable than native plants. Loss of understory vegetation can create open space that makes it easier for burning embers to blow through during a fire.

Thinning and removal of young trees to open up the canopy and allow sunlight in allows the soil to overheat, dry out and encourages weed growth..

Treating Cambria’s Monterey Pine forest the same as Sierra forests is misleading. The Monterey Pine forest requires different management.

Fire prevention should also focus on home hardening as well as forest fuel reduction.

Unfinished Business

Report and Discussion, CCSD Forest Management Ad Hoc Committee: The Ad Hoc committee of Tom Gray and Harry Farmer met with Dan Turner, Steve Auten and Keith Seydel of Rancho Marino. They discussed updating the Cambria Forest Management Plan of 2001. Harry will invite Devin Best, executive director of the Upper Salinas-Las Tablas Resource Conservation District to a future meeting.

Public and Director Comments:

Julie said PG&E telephoned to say that they will be marking trees for removal. Davey Tree will tag the trees but other contractors may do the work. Monitors are needed to limit destruction and collateral damage, and follow up that the contractors have disposed of cut trees and brush appropriately.

Bob Fountain said that Greenspace has hundreds of Monterey Pine seedlings available. Greenspace will accommodate to place them. He will contact Andrew Boyd-Goodrich, executive director at Camp Ocean Pines, for possible placement there.

Bob also reported that some Cal Poly students have approached Greenspace about the possibility of using drones to survey the forest in Cambria.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers:

Crosby suggested the CFC meeting have informational sessions on specific subjects such as Thinning and Masticators.

Meeting Adjourned at 8:30 pm.

Next Meeting July 14, 2021

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Minutes May 2021

Posted on May 20, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes May 2021

May 12, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was Called to Order and a Quorum established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Greenspace representative Bob Fountain, Christine Heinrichs and Cambria CSD liaison Harry Farmer.

Public and Director Comments:

Harry Farmer recommended the NPR interview with Finding the Mother Tree author Suzanne Simard, https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/05/04/993430007/trees-talk-to-each-other-mother-tree-ecologist-hears-lessons-for-people-too .

Crosby reported that Kitty Connolly provided information on a training webinar on How to Use the Cal Vegetation Management Program, May 13 and May 20, 9-noon. Support materials are available on the site.

Christine suggested a Frontline documentary on Fire in Paradise, https://www.pbs.org/video/fire-in-paradise-ncamrn/ Aluminum fire blankets could be useful for protection during a wildfire.

Minutes of the April Meeting were approved with one update from Bob.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura reported that the bank balance is $634.60, plus $10 in petty cash. One outstanding bill is anticipated for Lynn Singer’s tax report, which is due May 17. The IRS spreadsheet status is still not corrected. Laura will pursue.

Sub-Committee Reports

Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations

Website Domain Name Administrator: Crosby will transfer from Paul Nugent, small cost involved.

Forest Management

Cal Fire VTP Project Approval Requirements: A Public Works Plan is required in the Coastal Zone. Upper Salinas-Las Tablas Resource Conservation District representatives attended Fire Safe Focus Group and reported that they have the authority to put together a Public Works Plan for the Covell Ranch project.

Sudden Oak Death Survey May 15-16:

https://ucanr.edu/survey/survey.cfm?surveynumber=29620

SOD was reported in water samples from San Simeon Creek. Bob will contact Lisa Emanuelson M.S.
Volunteer Monitoring Coordinator
California Marine Sanctuary Foundation  I  Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Lisa.Emanuelson@NOAA.gov
Office: (831) 647-4227
Front Desk: (831) 647-4201

to request adding SOD testing to the annual Snapshot Day, the first Saturday in May. Forest Committee directors are uncertain about whether they will participate this year.

The Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program of the Cambria Fire Department continues to list APN numbered lots that are near properties under Conservation Easement or otherwise not appropriate for weed abatement. Crosby and Laura continue to work with Fire Chief William Hollingsworth to remove them from the weed abatement list. Lots in Fern Canyon are surrounded by conserved lots and should not be cut. This subject has been brought to Chief Hollingsworth for the past four years. They will report back on their progress with Chief Hollingsworth.

Broom is growing back. Harry has continued to remove it from Strawberry Canyon. Crosby and Laura are seeking assistance to remove a large broom plant in Fern Canyon. It will need to be cut down and the stump treated to remove it. Small plants are easily pulled, but larger plants can be controlled by removing flowers and seed heads and placing them in green waste.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group:

The group continues to struggle with technology to post Steve Auten’s previous report to the public. Mr. Auten gave another report on the Covell Ranch project, focusing on the history of the ranch. The Public Works plan being prepared by the Upper Salinas-Las Tablas Resource Conservation District for the project has not been presented. FSFG has contacted the Nature Conservancy, which holds the conservation easement on the Covell Ranch.

Harry Farmer has not heard back from his contact with Daniel Bowman at the SLO Land Conservancy. Lack of opportunity for public vetting and comment on forest plans continues to characterize FSFG projects.

Cambria reporter Kathe Tanner has proposed writing columns in The Cambrian on home hardening. She has offered her house as an example.

FSFG applications for grants are due May 19.

The link for State Sen. John Laird’s Virtual Town Hall on Emergency Preparedness and Wildfire Resources with insurance commissioner Ricardo Lara is archived at http://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/95-guides/09-comm/Senator-John-Laird.cfm.

Unfinished Business

Discuss CCSD Forest Management Ad Hoc Committee   The CSD Ad Hoc committee on Forest Management will hold another meeting, with invitations to institutional representatives by CSD director Tom Gray. The CSD’s Facilities and Resources Department may be able to allocate some of its $750,000 budget to hire a forest management consultant. FFRP’s current investments and reserves have reached $5 million, but are restricted. Any potential future investment in forest management by FFRP would be for the Preserve area only.

Volunteers accomplish a lot in Cambria. A forest ecologist could organize volunteers to identify problems with dwarf mistletoe and insect damage for treatment.

Greenspace’s 3,000 Tree Initiative has succeeded in planting trees, which are having a healthy survival rate on State Parks land north of Cambria. Bob said that contacts with Mike Walgren at State Parks have been positive.

Camp Ocean Pines Monterey Pines are in poor condition. The camp has struggled financially during the pandemic. Executive Director Andrew Boyd-Goodrich welcomes assistance and may be open to planting replacement trees.

Director comments:

Harry raised the issue of drought, as documented in two Tribune headlined articles in the past week. The Cambria Pines Lodge’s application for increased activities, and additional water use, at the Christmas Market will be discussed at the May 19 NCAC meeting. The permit application was sent to all directors.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers

PBS Age of Nature, NOAA and State Parks Webinars. Laura Swartz suggested inviting the SLO Land Conservancy’s staff ecologist to speak. The SLO Land Conservancy holds the conservation easement on Fern Canyon.

The meeting was Adjourned at 8:24 pm
Next Meeting June 9, 2021

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Minutes April 2021

Posted on April 20, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes April 2021

April 14, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm and a quorum established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Bob Fountain, Julie Jorgenson, and Christine Heinrichs. California Native Plant Society member Neil Havlik, Cambria CSD liaison Harry Farmer, and CSD director Karen Dean also attended.

Public and Director Comments

Harry Farmer recounted his experience with French broom in Strawberry Canyon. He saw some and went to pull it, then noticed more growing in the gully. He pulled about 75 plants. The experience impressed him with how fast broom can infest the forest. Crosby Swartz said the broom seeds persist in the ground for years.

Harry reported on the IWMA meeting, at which, by a close vote, the polystyrene ban was kept in place but will not be implemented.

Crosby asked for directors to reach out to appropriate people to serve as CFC directors. Neil Havlik said he will consider serving, and reach out to other CNPS members who may be interested.

Laura Swartz has a frame to fill racks to raise MP trees. She will loan it to Bob Fountain for setting up racks later this week.

Minutes of the March Meeting were unanimously approved with one name spelling correction.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura Swartz reported that the account balance is $634.60. She continues to pursue correcting the IRS error. The IRS nonprofit forms will be prepared by a professional accountant to meet the May 15 deadline.

Sub-Committee Reports

Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations

Update Website Domain Name Administrator: Crosby will handle.

Forest Management

Tree Pruning (Limbing Up) at Grammar School: Crosby will pursue what the reason was for limbing up trees that did not pose any danger of crown fire, and removal of associated brush

 Cal Fire VTP Project Specific Analysis Document (PSA)

This process makes it simpler to proceed with a forest project by allowing approval if the project meets PSA criteria, as established by a programmatic statewide EIR. The process limits opportunities for public oversight. Board members discussed the possibilities for public comment on local projects, such as the upcoming Covell Ranch project. Fire Safe Focus Group meetings may hear comment, and projects in the Coastal Zone may come before the Coastal Commission for comment.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group:

The meeting focused on house hardening to reduce fire damage. The Fire Safe Council is looking for grants to assist homeowners in making their houses more fire resistant.

The group will invite forest advisor Steve Auten to its May meeting. His recorded presentation from a previous meeting has not been made generally available because of technical problems. Directors continue to pursue resolution of electronic access to his presentation. Forest Committee directors are urged to attend the May Fire Safe Focus Group meeting.

The legislature has approved $500 million for fuel reduction projects in the current Fiscal Year, with plans for another $500 million in the 2022 FY. Fire Safe Council will apply for grants, deadline May 19. FSC business manager Dan Turner said that grants will be available for invasive species removal and removal of hazardous trees. The Covell Ranch project and a project on San Simeon Point, to clear out debris and thin eucalyptus, may be included.

Turner is aware that French broom has replaced the understory vegetation removed along Highway 1 by the fuel reduction project in 2020. He said that permission from Cal Trans, which holds the Right of Way, prevents entry of teams to treat the broom. He is working on getting a Memorandum of Understanding with Cal Trans so that Fire Safe teams can have access. Neil Havlik said that areas along Highway 1 have rich, diverse native vegetation including native orchids that need to be protected. He and other CNPS members are providing CNPS Best Practices to Fire Safe and Cal Fire to bring attention to the plants before projects damage them.

Fire Safe will hold a community chipping event. CERT is giving Covid shots. State Sen. John Laird will hold a Zoom Town Hall meeting April 29, 5:30 pm, about problems with homeowners and fire insurance.

State Farm Insurance is partnering with a private fire prevention company, Wildfire Defense Systems. More information to follow. Christine is looking into it.

Unfinished Business

Discuss CCSD Forest Management Ad Hoc Committee

The Ad Hoc Committee led by Harry Farmer and Tom Gray held its first meeting April 1. Greenspace has written a list of job responsibilities which Crosby will circulate to directors. Harry reported that Tom Gray has proposed another meeting, to invite other stakeholders such as Cal Fire, County Supervisor Bruce Gibson and others. A third meeting could bring differing perspectives together.

How to pay for a Forest Manager/Ecologist remains undecided. Harry reported that FFRP is willing to assist with its own funding and additional fund raising.

Public and Director Comments:

Neil has discussed the possibility of holding a meeting of all forest stakeholders, both local and entities such as The SLO Land Conservancy, State Parks, and the Upper Salinas – Las Tablas Resource Conservation District, sponsored by EcoSLO. EcoSLO is willing to consider hosting such a meeting, with financial support from the attendees.

The scope of a Forest Manager/Forest Ecologist is not limited to land owned by the CSD. Addressing the responsibilities of a Forest Manager/Ecologist, the Cambria Forest Management Plan states:

[p. R-1] …although the Cambria Forest Management Plan emphasizes management for Monterey pine success, it also addresses other species, such as coast live oak, that co-occur and interact with Monterey pines, in order to ensure an ecosystem-based management approach.

[ p. 1-1] The Cambria Forest Management Plan is intended to serve the community of Cambria and its environs and will provide an integrated framework of techniques for the management of the forest. It was created for use by an experienced Professional Forester to ensure comprehensive and effective management of a sustainable forest for the present and future benefit of the North Coast Planning Area’s people, plants, and animals. The Professional Forester would be responsible to the implementation agency (i.e. a Services District). The Cambria Forest Committee may act in an advisory capacity to the forest management implementing agency.

“The goal is the well-being of the forest,” Harry said.

Directors offered to reach out to contacts for recommendations as to the job description of a Forest Manager/Ecologist. Bob will contact Mike Walgren at State Parks, Christine will contact Ben Higgins at Hearst Ranch, Harry will contact FFRP board members, executive director Kitty Connolly and Rancho Marino director Keith Seydel. Crosby will contact The Land Conservancy. They will report at the May meeting.

Bob Fountain reported that Greenspace continues its 3,000 Tree Initiative, handing out racks on 25 April at the Creekside Reserve. They have 15 volunteer growers and 8 or 9 Greenspace board members signed up to grow seedlings. The seedlings will be planted next winter, November through February, on State Parks land, between San Simeon Acres and Lone Palm Road, to create a corridor of Monterey Pine along the highway.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers

PBS Age of Nature: The web site states that videos usually include permission for showing to public audiences for free, such as teachers in classrooms. https://help.pbs.org/support/solutions/articles/5000673755-how-do-i-obtain-public-performance-rights-for-a-show-

NOAA and State Parks Webinars are ongoing. Previous programs are archived. https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/education-at-home/upcoming-and-archived-webinars

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.

Next Meeting May 12, 2021

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Minutes March 2021

Posted on March 20, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes March 2021

March 10, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by Crosby Swartz, and a Quorum established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Julie Jorgenson, Bob Fountain, Greenspace representative, and myself, Christine Heinrichs. Cambria CSD Board liaison Harry Farmer and California Native Plant Society member Neil Havlik also attended.

Public and Director Comments and Introductions:

Neil Havlik has been a CNPS member since 1966. He is interested in issues around balancing fire and fuel management with habitat quality and biodiversity.

Christine and Bob both attended the Bay Nature webinar on Chaparral Fire Ecology and Fire Following Plants. One of the points made was that while fire is a natural feature of the ecology, fires too hot or too frequent turn chaparral into weed patches.

Minutes of January and February Meetings were approved with minor changes.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura Swartz reported the balance at $634.60. There are no outstanding bills or checks.

Sub-Committee Reports

Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations 

     Transfer of Development Credits / Lodge Hill Restoration Program:

Crosby sent Christine the TDC references he identified. He will send the Vacant Parcel Assessment Report. Christine will post to the website.

Update Website Domain Name Administrator:

Crosby will transfer the GoDaddy account from Paul Nugent to Crosby Swartz.

Replacement trees: Bob Fountain reported that planting replacement trees for Monterey Pine and Coast Live Oaks is still required, but no one is getting trees from Greenspace. He received some documents from the county relating to tree replacement requirements. He will send to Christine, who will post to the website.

The Hadian and Bookout projects, which have been given permits by the District and have been appealed to the County Board of Supervisors, would, if constructed, remove respectively, 50 and 70 Monterey Pine trees, requiring planting of hundreds of trees.

Greenspace’s 3,000-Tree Initiative continues to raise seedlings. Most are being planted on State Parks property.

Forest Management

     Tree Pruning (Limbing Up) at Grammar School:

Crosby noticed the trees had been extensively pruned as he drove past. He will take photos and pursue information as to who authorized the work and who performed it. Because there is no overstory that could be affected by fire climbing the trees, they did not need to be limbed up.

    Cal Vegetation Treatment Program (VTP) and Coastal Commission Conditions:

Cal Fire intends to use VTP instead of other permits for fuel reduction projects. The Village Lane Project was done under the governor’s Executive Order, according to Dan Turner, business manager of the county Fire Safe Council. He has not yet shown the county’s Letter of Exemption for the project, and county officials have not provided it.

Turner has said that trees will be replaced as needed after observing how many regenerate naturally. Because that requires years of observation, tree replacement requirements can be overlooked.

Neil Havlik said that he and Dave Krause, Melissa Mooney, and Dave Chipping of the CNPS local chapter talked with Turner to advocate for leaving some sensitive areas of the Village Lane Project alone, that vegetation management needs to be carefully considered. They met with Kevin Cooper at the site and asked that areas behind the horse paddock be left alone to protect sensitive plants, and that area was not treated. He felt “they had listened to us.”

Harry Farmer said that the Fiscalini Ranch project that removed understory in 2020 resulted in regeneration of poison oak rather than ferns and native plant diversity. Once the understory is disturbed, it opens the path for invasives. French broom is coming back in the areas along Highway 1 that were cleared last year. Turner has said that he is aware of the need to follow up on broom removal.

Farmer reported piles of French broom removed in 2020 on Covell Ranch have not been removed and are a fire hazard.

The Coastal Commission and the Regional Water Quality Control Board have also expressed concern. Crosby will contact Steve Auten to get a report.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group – None of the CFC directors attended the meeting.

New Business

          Discuss CCSD Forest Management Ad Hoc Committee

This item is included on the CCSD’s March 11, 2021 regular meeting agenda:

Discussion and Consideration of Establishing a Board Ad Hoc Committee for Forest Management Alternatives

RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the Board discuss and consider establishing a Board Ad Hoc Committee for Forest Management Alternatives to identify and define viable options to manage and promote the health, regeneration, and vitality of our native tree stands on Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) properties, so they may thrive and prosper for future generations.

FISCAL IMPACT: The fiscal impact of creating a Forest Management Alternatives Ad Hoc Committee would result in an undetermined amount of staff time.

DISCUSSION: CCSD owns and manages properties populated by Monterey Pine trees, which are at risk due to natural and non-natural impacts. Disease and drought have ravaged these magnificent rare trees over the last decade. To better understand the issues and potential options for the Board to consider in maintaining the Monterey Pine stands on District property, the Board should discuss and consider appointing an ad hoc committee to identify and evaluate options and alternatives. Some questions the Board may direct the ad hoc committee to address may include:

  1. What is a clear definition of the problem?
  2. How should the Board consider the alternatives, given that much of the forest does not belong to CCSD?
  3. What expertise is required to help guide the District in forest management?
  4. Where might resources come from for any ongoing District forest management efforts?

As an alternative that holds potential for Cambria, the Board may consider reviewing a model utilized in Santa Cruz, where landowners formed a network to agree on overall management objectives, remain current on forest science, and pursue joint projects. One benefit of such a group is increasing the likelihood of fundraising for forest health projects when an area-wide coalition applies. The Santa Cruz Mountains Stewardship Network website can be found at: http://scmsn.net/. Staff recommends the Board consider establishing a Board Ad Hoc Committee for Forest Management Alternatives.

CFC directors Crosby, Laura and Christine will speak in favor of the subcommittee and appointing Harry Farmer to lead it. Concerns include broadening the scope to include the entire forest, with all owners involved; hiring a Forest Ecologist to advise the district and the community; starting small with a part-time consultant and building on successes; finding funding from the district, FFRP, and other avenues.

[In the event, the ad hoc committee was created and Directors Harry Farmer and Tom Gray appointed.]

Letter to IRS Correcting Business Master File

Treasurer Laura Swartz has spent substantial time on the phone with the IRS to straighten this out. It’s an internal IRS error. She and Crosby will write a letter detailing the problem and how to fix it. The incorrect listing could affect grant funding.

Unfinished Business

List of Tasks for Forest Management Consultant, Outreach to Other Groups:

Directors had many suggestions, including identifying diseases and treatments, organizing volunteers to remove invasives, exploring whether Galling Flies could be released to control Cape Ivy. Keith Seydel, director at Rancho Marino Reserve, suggested assessing the science to determine the overall health of the forest, and whether it is shrinking or growing.

Greenspace is working up its own list of tasks for a Forest Ecologist.

Neil offered to contact EcoSLO regarding their Coastal Summit, held at Camp Ocean Pines in the past. That might be a setting in which to write Best Practices for managing Monterey Pines. The Forest Committee and Greenspace have collaborated on Best Practices and Big Sur Land Trust has its own Best Practices. Christine will send those to all attending.

Public and Director Comments

Hadian, https://agenda.slocounty.ca.gov/iip/sanluisobispo/agendaitem/details/12837,  and Bookout, https://agenda.slocounty.ca.gov/iip/sanluisobispo/agendaitem/details/12974, applications were approved by the Planning Department and now go on to Board of Supervisors. Christine and others have filed appeals.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers

PBS Age of Nature, NOAA and State Parks Webinars are possible future meeting subjects that could also attract the public to attend.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:09 pm.

Next Meeting April 14, 2021

Minutes March 2021

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Minutes February 2021

Posted on February 12, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes February 2021

February 10, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was Called to Order at 6:35 pm and a Quorum established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Julie Jorgenson, Bob Fountain and Christine Heinrichs. Cambria CSD board liaison Harry Farmer also attended.

Public and Director Comments:

The CSD settled its lawsuit against EWS contractor CDM Smith for $1.75 million. The brine impoundment pond was the disputed issue. Legal fees were around $330,000, Mr. Farmer said. He supported setting some of the money aside to pay for hauling brine waste, now that the impoundment pond idea didn’t work out.

Christine Heinrichs showed the Fiscalini Ranch Field Guide prepared by Santa Lucia Middle School students. SLMS principal Kyle Martin is interested in working with the Forest Committee.

Christine will contact Andrea and Marc of Climatedesigners.org for information about the IRS Business Master File error.

Approve Minutes of January Meeting:

Typos corrected, Christine will send to directors for approval at the March meeting.

Treasurer’s Report:

Laura Swartz reported that out of the $752.60 beginning balance, she paid $118.00 for the PO box, leaving a final balance of $634.60. She continues to attempt to reach the IRS to correct the spreadsheet notation that indicates that CFC is not a tax-exempt organization.

Sub-Committee Reports

Website: Crosby will contact Paul Nugent regarding the domain name registration.

Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations

California Wildfire and Forest Resilience Plan

https://www.fire.ca.gov provides interesting reading about California’s future.

Age of Nature PBS Series Screening: Christine will follow up regarding permission for public screening.

     Transfer of Development Credits / Lodge Hill Restoration Program: Crosby and Christine will assemble documents relevant to the TDC program and post to the website. CSD has legal responsibility for conserved lots and the open space of Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.

Bob Fountain, who is also a NOAA docent, said the NOAA webinars continue, link on the website. State Parks is also presenting a series of webinars about coastal issues.

Bob has contacted the county regarding what is being required as mitigation for Monterey Pine trees that are removed. Environmental Coordinator Xzandrea Fowler and steven McMasters of the Planning and Building Department have not responded to voicemail messages. He has also discussed replacement trees with Greenspace, on whose board he serves, as Greenspace was historically the source for Monterey Pine seedlings. Tree replacement is often ignored, as the county does not enforce it. The blanket permit for tree removal has been allowed to expire.

The county’s website states: “All parcels in the coastal zone are required to submit a tree removal request form to the Department of Planning and Building before the removal of a tree. The review fee is dependent on the number of hazardous trees requested to be removed.”

Forest Management

Strawberry Canyon and Fiscalini Ranch Preserve sustained some damage during the recent storm, Orlena. Rick Hawley and Harry Farmer worked to resolve downed trees in strawberry Canyon. CSD Facilities Manager Carlos Mendoza and his crew worked on Fiscalini Ranch. The 2020 fuel removal project limbed up a lot of trees and thinned other areas. Whether this trimming made trees vulnerable to storm damage is an open question. Keeping a photo record can help document progress in the forest.

Some homes in Cambria flooded.

PG&E Tree Removals in Fern Canyon Preserve:

PG&E and its contractor Davey Tree removed trees and other vegetation under power lines in Fern Canyon. They left debris behind blocking the creek, in violation of ordinances to protect the watershed. Crosby and Laura notified the CSD’s general manager, fire chief and facilities manager. Julie Jorgenson took photos and contacted PG&E, which, after sending a consulting forester to inspect, sent a crew out to remove the material. Most was removed, some was chipped.

Coastal Zone Barriers for CRPG Projects Letter:

The Coastal Regional Prioritization Group is proposing that fuel reduction projects be exempted from the Coastal Development Permit process. While such projects are not construction, some permit should be required in a process that allows the public to comment before the project is carried out. See attached letter.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group:

Crosby and Laura reported that the discussion of safety concerns included hiring Zone Haven as a consultant on evacuation. FSFG is preparing for a Wildfire Information Day later in the year.

Unfinished Business

List of Tasks for Forest Management Consultant:

Directors discussed possible tasks that a Forest Ecologist could undertake in the next six months, to present to the CSD Board to support hiring a Forest Ecologist. Carlos Mendoza does a good job of maintenance at Fiscalini Ranch, but he is not trained in forest ecology. Local contractors who are knowledgeable about forest issues are available. The position does not need to be filled by someone with a Registered Professional Forester credential. Projects requiring RPF approval can be submitted to a consultant.

Possible projects include treating Dwarf Mistletoe infestations and disease recognition and treatment. All directors are asked to bring one or two suggestions to the March meeting.

Bob Fountain will work with Greenspace to develop a list from them.

Future Agenda Items and Speakers: Email Crosby program ideas.

The meeting was Adjourned at 8:25 pm.

Next Meeting March 10, 2021

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Minutes January 2021

Posted on January 15, 2021 by Christine Heinrichs

CAMBRIA FOREST COMMITTEE

TO CONSERVE AND MANAGE THE NATIVE FOREST OF CAMBRIA

Minutes January 2021

January 13, 2021, 6:30 PM

Zoom.com Video Teleconference

The meeting was called to order at 6:35 pm. A Quorum was established by attendance of Crosby and Laura Swartz, Bob Fountain, Harry Farmer and Christine Heinrichs. Julie Jorgenson joined the meeting in progress. Joaquin Quintana also attended.

Public and Director Comments:

Joaquin Quintana explained how he calculated carbon storage using the Forest Vegetation Simulator, free software available.

Crosby said that directors should encourage supportive colleagues to volunteer as Forest Committee directors. Participation of FFRP is missed. Paul Nugent is moving out of state. Crosby will contact him regarding web site domain name registration.

Minutes of the November and December Meetings were approved as amended. The district continues to approve new construction permit applications despite consistent denials of the permits from the Coastal Commission. Christine will send information on upcoming January 22 county planning department public hearings on Hadian and Bookout permit applications to all directors. The Bookout project would remove 70 Monterey Pine trees.

Treasurer’s Report: Laura Swartz reported the account balance at $752.50. The post office box rental is due by Jan 24, $118. She will make sure it is paid on time.

Sub-Committee Reports

Education/Planting/Mitigation/Operations

Invasive Vegetation Removal Timing: January is a good time of year to pull invasive weeds such as cape ivy, French broom and radishes. They come out of the moist soil easily. Spraying emerging weed sprouts with 30 percent vinegar is effective. It is available at Los Osos Valley Nursery.

Age of Nature PBS Series Screening: Directors agreed that showing it at a future meeting would be desirable. Christine will assist Crosby in making arrangements to get permission to show it. Bob Fountain is a docent at the NOAA Discovery Center. Michele Roest took over administration of the center and is offering a series of webinars from the National Marine Sanctuary. Christine will place the link on the Forest Committee website.

Transfer of Development Credits / Lodge Hill Restoration Program: Crosby continues to compile documents to assist the CSD with this program.

The CambriaCa Newsletter and Calendar: This online publication published the Forest Committee’s meeting notice last week. The CFC meeting is also included on their calendar. FFRP had an article about a graduate student who is researching understory plants.

Forest Management

     CRPG Projects List: Crosby sent this Excel spreadsheet list, from Angela Bernheisel of Coastal Regional Prioritization Group, to all directors. It shows projects proposed but not yet funded.

Village Lane Project County Waiver: The Fire Safe Focus Group did not offer any further information regarding its claim that the project received a Letter of Exemption from the county rather than a permit for the project. County Fire Safe Council Business Manager Dan Turner said that the project fell under the governor’s Executive Order and did not require a permit. Crosby has not ascertained whether such a letter was sent from any of the contacts he has made at the county. He will follow up inquiring from Supervisor Bruce Gibson as to the Letter of Exemption and the process of allowing projects without permits, and whether public notice, mitigation, and other processes of permitting are required. Bob Fountain will follow up with Greenspace as to requests for seedling trees. Greenspace has historically been the source for tree seedlings planted as mitigation for trees removed.

Report from Fire Safe Focus Group: Crosby and Laura attended. Fire Chief Hollingsworth reported several chimney fires in the last month and recommended that chimneys be inspected. He is working on a Defensible Space ordinance that would allow CFD to inspect improved property. That’s currently the legal responsibility of Cal Fire, which is unable to address the problems adequately.

Invasive brush that has been removed is piled and ready to burn, awaiting weather conditions and Cal Fire personnel.

The proposed state budget includes some funding for forest resilience and other forest-related issues. Some funding may be made available soon.

CFD is struggling to meet staffing requirements. Reserve firefighters stay only briefly in Cambria as they move on to full-time positions.

Dan Turner is involved with the WUI Institute at Cal Poly, where he is working to get the subject recognized as an area of study.

The Wildfire Preparedness Day, usually held in May, may be postponed until fall due to the pandemic.

No New Business

Unfinished Business

            List of Tasks for Forest Management Consultant: Directors are asked to submit suggestions to Crosby for tasks that a forest ecologist could undertake without delay. Treatment of beetles on Fiscalini Ranch and chemical treatment of dwarf mistletoe are two that don’t require the expertise of a Registered Professional Forester. Bob Fountain will ask Greenspace board members to contribute ideas at their annual retreat.

Public and Director Comments: Crosby suggested that directors submit ideas for 2021, in addition to continuing to make the case for hiring a forest ecologist to the CSD.

Friday January 15 will be the CSD Strategic Planning meeting. The board will meet on Tuesday to write its plan. “We need to keep pushing what the benefits of a healthy forest are. It’s a key draw for the community. It will become more valuable, like Central Park in New York.”

During the pandemic, more people are coming out to use the open spaces such as Fiscalini Ranch and Pismo Preserve. Solutions are being found to make use by both cyclists and walkers safe.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 pm.

Next Meeting February 10, 2021

 

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