HomeMy WebLinkAboutHopalong Cassidy Trail Reroute of Existing Art Smith TrailheadCITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: Approval of an Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of
Environmental Impact pertaining to completion of the Hopalong
Cassidy Trail, including reroute of existing Art Smith Trailhead.
SUBMITTED BY: Phil Drell, Director of Community Development
DATE: November 17, 2005
CONTENTS:
Recommendation
Discussion
Initial Study and Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact
Notice of Intent
Exhibit Map
Recommendation:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 05-107 approving the Initial Study and the
Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact.
2. Appropriate $183,979 from Fund 430-4636-454-400, approve
expenditure of $120,000 from Homme/Adams Park Fund 880-0000-
239-9100 and authorize City Manager to execute contract with Mike
Schuler for trail construction services.
Discussion:
The Hopalong Cassidy Trail will extend from the Bump and Grind Trail in Rancho
Mirage to the Art Smith Trailhead at the mouth of Dead Indian Canyon. The
initial section of the Art Smith Trail passes through the bottom of Dead Indian
Canyon in proximity of a bighorn sheep lambing area on the south side of the
canyon. State and Federal wildlife agencies have long sought to reroute this
section over the northern canyon wall so that trail users are out of the view of
lambing sheep. The northern end of the Hopalong Cassidy Trail would serve as
this rerouted section.
Resolution No. 05-•107
Staff Report
Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration for Hopalong Cassidy Trail Including
Reroute of Existing Art Smith Trailhead
Page 2
November 17, 2005
The Hopalong Cassidy Trail and Art Smith reroute were originally part of the
Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Trail Program. Due to
delays in adoption of the MSHCP, the wildlife agencies requested that the City
being trail construction immediately so that the reroute can be completed prior
to lambing season. We agreed to expedite construction if the project included
the entire Hopalong Cassidy Trail system.
Since the MSHCP EIR has not been certified, a separate CEQA process is
required prior to construction. BLM is conducting the NEPA process where the
trail crosses Federal land. In addition to allowing trail construction, portions of
existing trails in sensitive areas will be closed.
Submitted by:
Ph] Drell
Director of Community Development
Approval:
Carlos L. Orte
City Manager
Approval:
Homer Croy
ACM for D
Approval:
pment Services
Paul Gibson
Director of Finance
(W pdocs\tm\s r\a rtsmith.cc)
RESOLUTION NO. 05-107
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PERTAINING TO
THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE HOPALONG CASSIDY TRAIL
EXTENDING FROM DEAD INDIAN CANYON TO THE MIRAGE
TRAIL IN RANCHO MIRAGE, INCLUDING THE REROUTE OF THE
ART SMITH TRAILHEAD AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE DESERT
CROSSING MIRAGE TRAIL CONNECTOR.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the 17th day of
November, 2005, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the above referenced Mitigated
Negative Declaration; and
WHEREAS, said project has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm Desert
Local Guidelines for Implementing the California Environmental Quality Act, Resolution No. 05-52,"
in that the Director of Community Development has determined that with the implementation of
mitigation measures described in the attached Initial Study that all potential adverse impacts of the
project will be reduced to a level of insignificance and a Draft Mitigated Declaration has been
prepared; and
WHEREAS, the City Council, having reviewed the Initial Study, written comments and
public testimony received at the public hearing, does hereby declare that the proposed project with
mitigation measures identified in the Initial Study will not have a significant effect on the
environment.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert,
California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the independent
findings of the City Council in this case.
2. That a Mitigated Negation of Environmental Impact (attached hereto as Exhibit A)
is hereby approved, including mitigation measures identified in the attached Initial
Study
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City
Council, held on this day of , 2005, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert, California
BUFORD A. CRITES, Mayor
RESOLUTION NO. 05-107
EXHIBIT A
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
1. Project: Art Smith to Mirage Trail
Construction of Hopalong Cassidy Trail and Reroute of Art Smith
Trail and Desert Crossing Connector Trail.
2. Location: Project begins at the Art Smith Trail trailhead located on SR 74 on U.S.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands just south of the Palm Desert city
limits. The Art Smith Trail reroute then passes through lands managed by
the Coachella Valley Water District for flood control purposes and lands
owned by the City of Palm Desert. The Hopalong Cassidy Trail proceeds
north from the rerouted Art Smith Trail through City lands, lands managed
by California Department of Fish and Game, private lands having provided
trail easements, additional BLM lands, and private lands within the city of
Rancho Mirage corporate limits. The Desert Crossing connector trail passes
through private lands having provided trail easements and City lands. The
subject trails pass through portions of Sections 1, 2 & 12, T.6S., R.5E.;
Sections 13, 24, 25, 26, 35 & 36 T.5S. R.5E.; and Sections 19 & 30, T.5S.,
R.6E., SBBM.
3. Project Description:
This project involves the construction of trail segments to complete the Art
Smith Trail re-route and the Hopalong Cassidy Trail. Segments of these
trails already exist: portions of the existing Southern Schey and Canyon
Trails will be incorporated in the Art Smith Trail reroute; and portions of the
existing Northern Schey Trail and Hopalong Cassidy Trail at Homme-Adams
Park will be incorporated in the completed Hopalong Trail from the Art Smith
Trail to the Mirage ("Bump and Grind") Trail in Rancho Mirage. In addition,
a short connector trail from the Desert Crossing Shopping Center to the
lower segment of the Mirage Trail is part of the project. The project also
includes the exclusion and/or seasonal closure of certain existing trail
segments associated with the overall project, as well as installation of
fencing in Dead Indian and Carrizo Canyons to preclude access on a
seasonal basis.
4. Entity Undertaking Project:
City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
RESOLUTION NO.05-107
The City Council, having reviewed the Initial Study of this proposed project and having reviewed
the written comments received prior to the public meeting of the City Council, including the
recommendation of the City's staff, does hereby find and declare that the proposed project will not
have a significant effect on the environment. A brief statement of the reasons supporting the City
Council's findings are as follows:
The combination of trail closures, sensitive routing of new trails and trail management
reduces potential impacts of trail users to a level of insignificance.
The City Council hereby finds that the Negative Declaration reflects its independent judgement. A
copy of the Initial Study may be obtained at:
City Clerk
City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-0611
The location and custodian of the documents and any other material which constitute the record
of proceedings upon which the City based its decision to adopt this Negative Declaration are as
follows:
City Clerk
City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
IM
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 1
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
CITY OF PALM DESERT
Environmental Checklist Form
1. Project title: Art Smith to Mirage Trail
2. Lead agency name and address: City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
3. Contact person and phone number: Phil Drell
760-346-0611
4. Project location: The project —construction of the Art Smith Trail reroute, Hopalong Cassidy Trail, and Desert
Crossing connector trail —begins at the Art Smith Trail trailhead located on SR 74 on US Bureau of Land
Management (BLM) lands just south of the Palm Desert city limits. The Art Smith Trail reroute then passes through
lands managed by the Coachella Valley Water District for flood control purposes and lands owned by the City of
Palm Desert. The Hopalong Cassidy Trail proceeds north from the rerouted Art Smith Trail through City lands, lands
managed by California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), private lands with dedicated trail easements, additional
BLM lands, and private lands within the City of Rancho Mirage corporate limits. The Desert Crossing connector trail
passes through private lands with dedicated trail easements and City lands. The subject trails pass through portions of
Sections 1, 2 & 12, T. 6S., R. 5E.; Sections 13, 24, 25, 26, 35 & 36 T. 5S. R 5E.; and Sections 19 & 30, T.5S.,
R.6E., SBBM.
5. Project sponsor's name and address: City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
6. General Plan Designation: Open space and R-L 7. Zoning: Op. Sp. and R-L
8. Description of project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the
project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheets if
necessary.)
This project involves the construction of trail segments to complete the Art Smith Trail re-route and the Hopalong
Cassidy Trail. Segments of these trails already exist: portions of the existing "southern' Schey and Canyon Trails
will be incorporated in the Art Smith Trail reroute, while other portions of the Schey Trail will be decommissioned;
and portions of the existing "northern" Schey Trail and Hopalong Cassidy Trail at Homme-Adams Park will be
incorporated in the completed Hopalong Trail from the Art Smith Trail to the Mirage ("Bump and "Grind") Trail in
Rancho Mirage. In addition, a short connector trail from the Desert Crossing Shopping Center to the lower segment
of the Mirage Trail is part of the project. The project also includes the exclusion and/or seasonal closure of certain
existing trail segments associated with the overall project, as well as installation of exclusion fencing in Dead Indian
and Carrizo Canyons to preclude access on a seasonal basis. Consideration is also being made to full do-
commissioning of the portion of the Art Smith Trail located west of the proposed exclusion fence. Portions of the
subject trail are under jurisdiction of BLM. Trail construction will be accomplished through a combination of hand-
work and a custom-built trail machine, with professional trail construction supervision to occur along the full length
of the trail.
9. Surrounding land uses and setting: Briefly describe the project's surroundings:
North: Vacant desert and Stone Eagle Golf Course
-1-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 2
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
South: Vacant desert
West: Vacant desert and ecological reserve
East: Vacant desert, low density residential, commercial and public parks
10. Other public agencies whose approval is or may be required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or
participation agreement.)
Coachella Valley Water District, CDFG, US BLM, US Fish & Wildlife Service
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least
one impact that is a "Potentially Sig-iificant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
X Aesthetics
X Biological Resources
Hazards & Haz. Mat.s
Mineral Resources
Public Services
Utilities / Service
Systems
Agriculture Resources
X Cultural Resources
Hydrology/Water Qual.
Noise
Air Quality
Geology /Soils
X Land Use / Planning
Population / Housing
X Recreation Transportation/Traffic
Mandatory Findings of Significance
DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a
NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there
X will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or
agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be
prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially
significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been
adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has
been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached
sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the
effects that remain to be addressed.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,
because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or
NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or
mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or
mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required.
Signature: hn D. Cr AICP for Phil Drell, Community Date
Develop nt Director)
-2-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 3
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
1) A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately
supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each
question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources
show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g., the project falls
outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on
project -specific factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project will not expose sensitive
receptors to pollutants, based on a pr(Dject-specific screening analysis).
2) All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site,
cumulative as well as project -level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational
impacts.
3) Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist
answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with
mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is
substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If there are one or more "Potentially
Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required.
4) "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the
incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to
a "Less Than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and
briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from
Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-referenced).
5) Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process,
an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section
15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following:
a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review.
b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within
the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal
standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on
the earlier analysis.
c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures
Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures, which were incorporated or refined from
the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the
project.
6) Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for
potential impacts (e.g., general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or
outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the
statement is substantiated.
7) Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or
individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion.
8) This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead
agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's
environmental effects in whatever format is selected.
9) The explanation of each issue should identify:
a) the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and
b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance
-3-
I. AESTHETICS -- Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a
scenic vista?
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings
within a state scenic highway?
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual
character or quality of the site and its
surroundings?
d) Create a new source of substantial light
or glare, which would adversely affect day
or nighttime views in the area?
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 4
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
<I
A
X
X
Sources: Site surveys; Project maps, USGS Quad map, Aerial photos
►91
Findings of Fact
I. a -c Portions of the project area include existing trails and associated improvements, including the Art
Smith Trailhead and parking lot. Other existing disturbances include the Dead Indian Canyon flood control
debris basin and spillway associated with the Palm Valley Stormwater Channel. A CVWD water storage
reservoir is also located in proximity to the debris basin. Further north and in the project vicinity are homes
and other areas of disturbance within the Cahuilla Hills residential community, the Stone Eagle Golf
Course, other residences and existing networks of trails. Higher elevations in the vicinity are comprised of
undisturbed foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Basic principles underlying visual quality of a
landscape depend on the visual contrast created between a project and the existing landscape. The contrast
can be measured by comparing the project features with the major features in the existing landscape. The
basic design elements of form, line, color and texture are used to make this comparison and to describe the
visual contrast created by the project.
The proposed project includes the installation of a six-foot or eight -foot fence constructed of chain link or
other similar material at the existing Art Smith trailhead and southerly to exclude seasonal access to Carrizo
Canyon and the portion of Art Smith that is to be rerouted. Portions of the new trail alignment will be on
elevated terrain that may be visible from below, and the trail and associated disturbance may be visible in
some areas. The construction of new trails has the potential to impact visual resources in the Santa Rosa
Mountains foothills. New trail construction above the Desert Crossings Shopping Center may also be
visible from State Highway 111, although these effects will be substantially reduced by the visual
complexity of the intervening urban development, including signage and high levels of lighting.
I_d) The trail project does not involve the installation of lights and will therefore have no impact.
Mitigation Measures
Trail Design & Construction:
1. Where possible, the trial has been designed to utilize or improve existing trails to the greatest extent
practicable to minimize new surface disturbance.
E■
H
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 5
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
2. Where possible, construction of the trail in continuous straight lines has been avoided; irregular
lines that repeat lines of the characteristic landscape have been incorporated into the trail's design.
Natural screens (vegetation or landforms) have been used where possible.
3. When constructing side -hill bench cuts, if necessary, every reasonable effort shall be made to
minimize surface disturbance downhill of the trail's tread. Cuts will be shaped to appear as natural
as practicable. Freshly broken rock faces will be treated, where necessary, to reduce color contrasts
to the greatest extent practicable.
Fencing_ :
1. A six- or eight -foot fence, painted desert brown, will be installed. To further minimize visual
impacts to trail users, the 300f-foot segment Art Smith Trail fence will be located well within the
canyon and the 800±-foot segment Carrizo Canyon fence will be located several hundred feet south
of the Art Smith Trailhead. Posts for the fence would be set in concrete. All other aspects of the
Proposed Action would be the same.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
1. The City and BLM staff shall review the final trail alignment and shall periodically survey the
construction activity to assure that every reasonable effort is made to mitigate the trails visual impacts
in accordance with the above cited mitigation measures. The City, BLM and CDFG shall approve the
final plans before construction is initiated.
II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES:
Would the proiect:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique
Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide
Importance (Farmland), as shown on the
maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland
Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to non-
agricultural use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for
agricultural use, or a Williamson Act
contract?
c) Involve other changes in the existing
environment which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of
Farmland, to non-agricultural use?
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
X
K14
X
Sources: Palm Desert General Plan, Riverside County General Plan, California Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program.
Findings of Fact
II. a -c The proposed project is not currently in agriculture, the subject lands are not suited for agriculture,
nor are there Williamson Act contracts on the subject property. Development of the trails will not impact
agricultural resources.
Mitigation Measures
-5-
None required
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
III. AIR QUALITY: Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the applicable air
quality plan?
b) Violate any air quality standard or con-
tribute substantially to an existing or pro-
jected air quality violation?
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable
net increase of any criteria pollutant for
which the project region is non -attainment
under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard (including re-
leasing emissions, which exceed quantita-
tive thresholds for ozone precursors)?
d) Expose sensitive receptors to
substantial pollutant concentrations?
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 6
Art Smith to Mirage Traits EA/10.10.05
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w1 Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
0
Ki
X
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a X
substantial number of people?
Sources: Project description; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); SCAQMD EIR Handbook,
CV SIP 2002 for PM10;
Findings of fact
III. a),thru e) The two primary pollutants of concern in the Coachella Valley are PM10 and ozone. The
Coachella Valley has a history of exceeding regulatory ozone standards, although the number of days and
months the Federal one -hour standard has been exceeded has declined steadily over the past decade. The
Coachella Valley is classified as a "severe-17" ozone non -attainment area under the Federal Clean Air Act
This classification means that the region must come into compliance with Federal ozone standards by
November 15, 2007, which is 17 years from the date the Clean Air Act was enacted.
SCAQMD, in conjunction with local jurisdictions, prepared the 2002 Coachella Valley PM10 State
Implementation Plan, which includes PM10 control program enhancements and requests an extension of
the region's PM10 attainment date. In the near -term, potential impacts to air quality from the proposed
development may result from site grading and associated construction activities. The Coachella Valley is in
a severe non -attainment area for PM10 and is subject to the 2002 SIP and local dust control guidelines.
The proposed trail project will result in use of hand tools and a single custom built gasoline power trail
construction machine, which will be operated approximately six hours per day during the project
construction period. The construction crew will consist of up to three people. Fence construction is
expected to involve one crew of three using hand tools to install the fencing. Total construction time is
expected to be approximately four months but will not be continuous. The completed trail is expected to
result in a modest increase in trail use between the Art Smith and Mirage Trails. This usage will be
0
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 7
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
somewhat off -set by the seasonal closure of the Art Smith Trail,. The Mirage Trails and project -associated
Homme-Adams Trail may see modest increases in use. Trailhead facilities for Homme-Adams already exist
and parking for the new Mirage Trail will be available on a public street behind the Desert Crossings
shopping center. Neither the construction of project improvements nor the anticipated increased trail use is
expected to result in significant impacts to local or regional air quality. The project development and
operation will not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan, nor will the
project violate any air quality standard or con -tribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation. The project will not rest —it in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant, will
not expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations, nor create objectionable odors
affecting a substantial number of people.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either
directly or through habitat modifications, on
any species identified as a candidate,
sensitive, or special status species in local or
regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by
the California Department of Fish and
Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any
riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community identified in local or regional
plans, policies, regulations or by the
California Department of Fish and Game or
US Fish and Wildlife Service?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on
federally protected wetlands as defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal
pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal,
filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement
of any native resident or migratory fish or
wildlife species or with established native
resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or
impede the use of native wildlife nursery
sites?
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
X
9/
►0
X
-7-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 8
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordin- X
ances protecting biological resources, such
as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an X
adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or other
approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
Sources: Palm Desert General Plan, EIR and Biological Assessment (AMEC/L.F. LaPre, Ph.D., 2001);
Biological Assessment for the Crest (Stone Eagle) Development, AMEC Earth & Environmental, 2002;
Coachella Valley Draft and Final MSHCP & EIR/S.
Findings of Fact
IV. a)- The Coachella Valley and the Santa Rosa Mountains are home to wide variety of common and
unique and specialized plant and animal species.
Recent biological surveys and literature reviews conducted in the area were used to assess this project.' The
trails project area is located along the edge of and within the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains, situated
on and along Dead Indian Canyon, Cat Canyon, Bruce Creek and Ramon Creek drainages and the east -
facing foothills. The Magnesia Spring Ecological Rreserve is located immediately west of the proposed trail
alignment, a portion of which occurs within the preserve boundaries. The Stone Eagle golf course, which is
nearing completion, is located in Section 25. Other adjacent and nearby development includes the Palm
Valley Stormwater Channel, State Highway 74, scattered single family residential to the north, east and
south, and dense condominium and mobilehome development to the east and southeast. Homme-Adams
Park is located near the northern one-third of the subject trail alignment and will be connected to it.
Local Vegetation
Sonoran Creosote bush scrub comprises the dominant plant community over most of the project area, and
includes Creosote bush, (Larrea tridentata), Burrobush (Ambrosia dumosa), and Brittlebush (Encilia
farinosa). Very few annual plants occur in the immediate project vicinity due to the low rainfall received and
the exposed rocky conditions over much of the alignment.
Plants that also make up the Sonoran Mixed Woody and Succulent Scrub communities are also present in
low densities over portions of the project area. These include California Barrel cactus (Ferocactus
cylindraceus), Calico cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii), Beavertail cactus (Opuntia basilaris), Desert
Agave (Agave deserti), and Golden barrel (Opuntia echinocarpa).
Limited Desert Dry Wash Woodland is present in the lower reach of Bruce Creek and portions of Cat
Canyon and Ramon Wash, and is dominated by microphyllous riparian shrub and tree species, including
Blue palo verde (Cercidium floridum ssp. floridum), Honey Mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa var. torreyana),
Smoke tree (Psorothamnus spinosus), Catclaw acacia (Acacia greggii), Cheesebush (Hymenoclea salsola),
Chuparosa (Justicia californica), and Desert Lavender (Hyptis emoryi).
Freshwater seeps occur in the project vicinity, with at least two occurring on the Stone Eagle project site and
north of the proposed trail alignment; these two seeps are conditioned for restoration under the approvals
granted for the construction of the golf course project. Seasonal water may also be associated with the Cat
Canyon drainage.
1 "Biological Survey of the Crest Development Site, Riverside County, California," prepared by AMEC Earth and
Environmental, Inc., May 2002.
-8-
K
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 9
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Wildlife
Biological field investigations carried out in the project vicinity have identified forty-three (43) species of
animals either by means of observation or indirect sign (scat, tracks, nests, or burrows), including 33 birds,
5 mammals, and 5 reptiles. Based upon these habitat assessments, many more species are expected to
inhabit and/or use the area, but were not observed during the site surveys.
Reptiles: Reptiles detected in the project vicinity included the Chuckwalla (Sauromalus obesus), Side -
blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana), Desert Horned Lizard ( Phrynosoma platyrhinos), Baja California
Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus vestigium), and Great Basin Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris tigris). Several
other species of reptile are expected to occur in the vicinity but are not easily detectable due to the prevailing
rocky terrain.
Birds: A variety of bird species, thirty-three (33) in all, have been identified during field surveys in the
area. Approximately 24 percent are migratory species not typical of desert areas and mainly utilizing the
vicinity as a temporary "stopover" while enroute to breeding habitat. Most migrants have been observed in
stands of Honey Mesquite in Bruce Creek, and included Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus),
Pacific -slope flycatcher (Empidonax difficilis), Hermit thrush (Catharus guttatus), Nashville Warbler
(Vermivora raficapilla). Green -tailed Towhee (Pipilo chlorurus) and Brewer's sparrow (Spizella breweri).
Resident bird species identified in the area include Gambel's quail (Callipepla gambelii), Mourning dove
(Zenaida macroura), Costa's hummingbird (Calypte costae), Say's phoebe (Sayornis saya), Common raven
(Corvus corax), Verdin (Auriparus flaviceps), and Blacktailed gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura). Neither
burrowing owl nor its sign was found in the referenced surveys.
Mammals: Six mammal species have been identified as occurring in the area, including Black -tailed
Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus), Desert Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii), White-tailed Antelope Squirrel
(Ammospermophilus leucurus), Desert Woodrat (Neotoma lepida), and Coyote (Canis latrans) and
Peninsular bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni).
Sensitive Species
A variety of resource agencies and conservation groups maintain lists of plants and animals, as well as
habitats and communities, that are believed to be rare or endangered. The Coachella Valley Association of
Governments (CVAG) has integrated documentation of these lists and developed research in conjunction
with BLM, USFWS, CDFG, and the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy and incorporated this
research into the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CV MSHCP). At this
writing, the Plan is being finalized for adoption to provide permanent conservation for twenty-seven (27)
plant and animal species in the Coachella Valley. In addition to the CV MSHCP, literature reviews have
included the California Natural Diversity Data -base (CNDDB). Based upon the literature and the
familiarity of project biologists, as many as twenty-two (22) sensitive plant and animal species potentially
occur in the vicinity of the project.
Sensitive Plant Species
Table IV-1 shows sensitive plants which have the potential to occur in the project vicinity. Of the six plant
species listed in this table, none were observed on the properties where surveys were conducted, although
two were judged to have a moderate probability of occurring in the vicinity. These include the ayenia
(Ayenia compacta) and the California ditaxis (Ditaxis serrata var. califomica).
0
14
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 10
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Table IV-1
Sensitive Flora Reported from the Vicinity of the
Art
Smith to Mirage Trail Alignment Project
Sensitive Species
Habitat &
Activity
Status
Occurrence
Distribution
Season'
Designation'
Potential'
Astragalus tricarinatus var.
Sonoran Desert
February -
F: E
Absent
coachellae
Scrub, sandy or
May
C: ND
Triple -ribbed milk -vetch
gravelly, between
CNPS: List 113
1,450 and 2,700
R-E-D: 3-2-3
feet
Antirrhinum cyathiferum
Restricted to the
February -
F. ND
Low, known from
Deep Canyon Snapdragon
deep Canyon area
April
C: ND
site over three
in California. Has
CNPS: List 2
miles to southeast
been found in desert
R-E-D: 3-1-1
washes and rocky
slopes.
Ayenia compacta
Sandy and gravelly
March - April
F: ND
Moderate, known
Ayenia
desert washes,
C: ND
from site over four
desert canyons
CNPS: List 2
miles to south
R-E-D:3-1-1
Ditaxis clariana
Sandy flats below
December -
F: ND
Absent. Habitat
Glandular ditaxis
500 feet, Creosote
March
C: ND
marginal, site too
bush scrub
CNPS: List 2
high in elevation
R-E-D: 3-2-1
Ditaxis serrata var. californica
Occurs in dry
March -
F: ND
Moderate. Habitat
California Ditaxis
washes, flood
December
C: CSC
is present but
plains and rocky
CNPS: List 3
species not
alluvial slopes of
R-E-D: ?-2-3
observed where
canyons
surveyed
Matelea parvifolia
Sonoran Desert
March - May
F: ND
Low. Most of site
Spearleaf
Scrub, dry rocky
C: ND
is too low in
ledges and slopes
CNPS: List 2
elevation
between 1,400and
R-E-D: 3-1-1
3,600 feet
Sensitive Wildlife Species
A range of sensitive wildlife species have adapted to specialized habitats of the Coachella Valley. Several of
these have been previously surveyed for their potential to occur in or near the planning area. These included
Black -tailed gnatcatchers and Chuckwallas. Neither of these species is listed as Threatened or Endangered;
the Chuckwalla is a federal "Species of Concern", and the Black -tailed gnatcatcher is listed on the Audubon
Society's state Watchlist for California. The Peninsular bighorn sheep (PBS) was listed as "Endangered"
by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1998 and is listed as "Threatened" by the California Department
of Fish and Game. Sheep sign and sightings have been observed in the project vicinity during local field
surveys, and from telemetry data collected over the past two decades. These sightings have been limited,
with substantially greater sightings occurring south and northwest of the trail planning area. The following
tables list sensitive wildlife species known or with the potential to occur in the project vicinity.
-10-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 11
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Table IV-2
Sensitive Insects Reported from the Vicinity of the
Art Smith to Mirage Trail Alignment Project
Sensitive Species Habitat & Distribution Activity Status
Season' Designatio
n'
(Macrobaenetes valgum) Sand dune ridges in Spring- F: SC
Coachella Valley Giant Coachella Valley, favors Summer C: ND
Sand Treader Cricket areas of damp sand for
permanent habitation
(Stenopelmatus
cahuilaensis)
Coachella Valley
Jerusalem Cricket
Sandy and dune areas along Spring- F: SC
north base of San Jacinto Summer C: ND
Mountains
Table IV-3
Sensitive Mammals Reported from the Vicinity of the
Art Smith to Mirage Trail Alignment Project
Sensitive Species Habitat & Activity Status
Distribution
Colorado Valley
Woodrat (Neotoma albigula
venusta)
(Spermophilus tereticaudus
chlorus)
Coachella Valley
Round -tailed Ground
Squirrel
Peninsular Bighorn
Sheep (Ovis canadensis
nelsoni)
Low-lying
desert areas in
SE California,
closely
associated with
mesquite and
beavertail
cactus
Various desert
habitats in
Coachella
Valley
Deep canyons
and rocky
slopes of the
desert face of
the Peninsular
ranges,
vegetated
w/Sonoran
Creosote Bush
Scrub
Season'
Spring -Fall
Year-round
Spring -Fall
Designation'
R ND
C: ND
F: SC
C: SC
F: E
C: T
Occurrenc
e
Potential'
Absent.
Habitat
lacking
Absent
(project area
is south of
known
range)
Occurrence
Potential'
Low - Absent.
Historic record
1939 from Dos
Palms Spring,
Santa Rosa
Mountains
Moderate -
Low
Occurs.
Recorded from
slopes of the
Santa Rosa's
overlooking
golf course site
in Section 25,
no sign
detected during
survey
Biological surveys conducted in the project area have also focused on sensitive reptiles and birds that might
occur in the planning area or vicinity. Table IV-4 describes the three reptile species of greatest concern and
relevance. Table IV-5 lists sensitive birds for which surveys have been conducted in the planning area.
-11-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 12
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/ 10.10.05
Table IV-4
Sensitive Amphibians and Reptiles Reported from the Vicinity of the
Art Smith to Mirage Trail Alignment Project
Sensitive Species
Habitat &
Activity
Status
Occurrence
Distribution
Season'
Designation'
Probability
Desert Tortoise
Various desert
Mar -Oct
F: T
Occurs. Historic
(Gopherus agassizi)
habitats, Creosote
C: T
record but no
bush scrub,
recent sign found
Saltbush scrub,
on surveys
flats, hillsides,
arroyos
Coachella Valley
Sandy areas of the
Spring-
F: T
Absent.
Fringe -toed Lizard
Coachella Valley
Summer
C: E
No suitable
(Uma inornata)
habitat
Desert Slender
Palm oasis in
Spring -Fall
F: E
Low. Seep
Salamander
Hidden Palm Cyn.,
C: E
mostly exposed
(Batrachosepts aridus)
- —2,800 ft.,
to sun,
microhabitat under
westernmost
limestone slabs and
seep more shaded
talus, rock crevices
and holes w/moist
soil
Switak's Barefoot
Southern desert
Spring -Fall
F: SSC
Moderate.
Gecko
foothills of the
C: T
Suspected from
(Coleonyx switaki)
Peninsular Ranges,
slopes adjacent
mainly below
to SR 74
2,000 feet, rocky
hillsides and
canyons with large
outcrops
Chuckwalla
Inhabits rocky
Spring -Fall
F: SSC
Occurs
(Sauromalus obesus)
slopes and outcrops
C: ND
throughout the
Mojave and
Colorado Deserts
Flat -tailed Horned
Sandy areas of the
Spring-
F: ND
Absent.
Lizard (Phrynosoma
Colorado Desert
Summer
C: CSC, P
No suitable
mcallii)
habitat
-12-
T
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 13
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Table IV-5
Sensitive Birds Reported From the Vicinity of the
Art Smith to Mirage Trail Alignment Project
Sensitive Species Habitat & Activity Status Occurrence
Distribution Season` Designation' Potential'
(Falco mexicanus)
Nests on cliffs; forages Year-round
F. ND
Moderate (nesting)
Prairie Falcon
over open terrain, scrub
C: CSC
Moderate (foraging)
habitats, agricultural
areas
(nesting)
(Athene cunicularia)
Inhabits a variety of Year-round
F: FSC
Low (not observed)
Burrowing Owl
open habitats, often
C: CSC (burrow
occupies unused ground
sites)
squirrel burrows
(Toxostoma dorsale)
Favors desert riparian Year-round
F: ND
Low. In mesquite on
Crissal Thrasher
areas with thick
C: CSC
western edge of
shrub/tree cover,
Section 31, south of
mesquite bosques
trail
Black -tailed
Desert Dry Wash Year-round
F: ND
Occurs
Gnatcatcher
Woodlands and desert
C: ND
(Polioptila
scrub habitats
melanura)
Loggerhead
Open terrain, grasslands, Year-round
F: FSC
Moderate to high
Shrike ( lanius
scrub habitats
C: CSC
ludovicianus)
Southwestern
Requires extensive, Migratory
F: E
Moderate. Migratory
Willow
dense thickets of willow
C: ND
habitat in Dead
Flycatcher
for nesting and roosting,
Indian and Cat
(Empidonax traillii
usually 2,000 to 8,000
Canyons
extimus)
ft.
Least Bell's vireo
Riparian woodland April -Sept.
F: E
Low. Lack of
Vireo bellii pusillus
C: E
adequate habitat
Table IV-6
Sensitive Habitats Reported from
the Vicinity of the
Art Smith to Mirage Trail Alignment Project
Habitat Type
Status
Occurrence Potential'
Designatio
n2
Desert Fan Palm Oasis F: ND Absent
Woodland C: ND State
rank: S3.2
Desert Dry Wash F: ND Occurs
Woodland C: ND State
rank: S3.2
-13-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 14
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Definitions of Status Designations and Occurrence Probabilities
Federal designations (U. S. Endangered Species Act, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service):
END: Federally listed, Endangered.
THR: Federally listed, Threatened.
SC: Species of concern: Threat and/or distribution data are not sufficient to support federal listing at this time.
ND: No designation.
State designations: (California Endangered Species Act, California Dept. of Fish and Game)
END: State listed, Endangered
THR: State listed, Threatened.
CSC: California Species of Special Concern.
FP: Fully Protected
ND: No designation.
Definitions of occurrence probability:
Present: Observed on the site by or recorded on -site by other qualified biologists.
High: Observed in similar habitat in region by qualified biologists, or habitat on the site is a type often utilized
by the species and the site is within the known range of the species.
Moderate: Reported sightings in surrounding region, or site is within the known range of the species and habitat on
the site is a type occasionally used by the species.
Low: Site is within the known range of the species but habitat on the site is rarely used by the species.
Absent: A focused study failed to detect the species, or, no suitable habitat is present.
Unknown: Distribution and habitat use has not been clearly determined.
California Native Plant Society (CLAPS) Designations: (Note: According to CNPS [Smith and Berg 1988],
plants on Lists 1B and 2 meet definitions for listing as threatened or endangered under Section 1901, Chapter 10 of the
California Fish and Game Code.)
List 1 B: Plants rare and endangered in California and throughout their range.
List 2: Plants rare, threatened or endangered in California but more common elsewhere.
List 3: Plants for which more information is needed.
List 4: Plants of limited distribution; a "watch list."
CNPS R-E-D Code:
Rarity
1: Rare, but found in sufficient numbers and distributed widely enough that the potential for extinction or
extirpation is low at this time.
2: Occurrence confined to several populations or one extended population.
3: Occurrence limited to one or a few highly restricted populations, or present in such small numbers that it is
seldom reported.
Endangerment
1: Not endangered.
2: Endangered in a portion of its range.
3: Endangered throughout its range.
Distribution
LMore or less widespread outside California.
2:Rare outside California.
3:Endemic to California (i.e., does not occur outside California).
References: USFWS (1990, 1994, 1996), Remson (1978), Williams (1976), and Skinner and Pavlik (1994).
Sensitive SDecies: No sensitive wildlife or plant species have been observed along the proposed trail route
during the numerous recent route surveys. Sensitive plants with the potential to occur along the route
appear to be limited to those with no state or federal designations. No sensitive plants proposed for
protection under the Draft Coachella Valley MSHCP are expected to occur along the proposed route. The
DDWW is a "natural community" covered by the Draft MSHCP and intact and viable DDWW will
remain undisturbed.
-14-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 15
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Sensitive wildlife species that have some potential to occur on or near the proposed trail route are limited to
the following, (indicates their probability of occurrence): Northern Red -diamond Rattlesnake (low
probability), Prairie Falcon (moderate), LeConte's Thrasher (low to moderate), Crissal Thrasher
(moderate), Loggerhead Shrike (Occurs), Peninsular Bighorn Sheep (moderate), and Palm Springs Round -
tailed Ground Squirrel (moderate). The proposed route is not within the boundaries of the mitigation fee
area of the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan.
Based upon a review of available biological resource assessments conducted in the project vicinity, it
appears that although the proposed trail route occurs in the potential habitat area for several species of
concern, the habitat along portions of the trail route have been in use by humans for many years, is located
adjacent to long-established and new urban development, and is impacted by numerous edge effects which
have reduced habitat values. This is not the case for portions of the Art Smith Trail, the eastern -most
segment of which is planned for re-routing under the subject trail proposal. The CDFG has also
determined that the upper -most segment of the Mirage Trail should be closed to protect sheep lambing
habitat in the vicinity of Ramon Peak and elsewhere in the Magnesia Spring Ecological Reserve. The
proposed re-route of the Mirage Trail moves the trail farther downslope from sensitive sheep habitat.
Critical Habitat for Peninsular Bighorn Sheen: Portions of the proposed trail alignment are located within
the boundaries of Recovery Zone 2 established by the Recovery Plane for Peninsular bighorn sheep. Most
or all portions of the trail are also located within "Critical Habitat" for the sheep, as designated by the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service. As noted above, telemetry data collected on the Northern Santa Rosa herd since
the early 1980s shows occasional sheep observations in vicinity of the proposed trail alignment, but
relatively low use probably due to the trail's proximity to existing urban development, including the Bighorn
community, Cahuilla Hills community, Stone Eagle golf course and commercial development at the foot of
the Santa Rosa Mountain foothills. The nearest sheep lambing area is located immediately west of the Art
Smith trailhead, and south and southwest of the trail re-route.
Mitigation Measures
A. Peninsular Bighorn Sheep
1. The eastern -most portion of the Art Smith Trails shall be re-routed as delineated in the proposed trail
alignment to relieve pressure on the Dead Indian Canyon ewe subgroup during the lambing season
and the hot weather season. This reroute will mitigate for current disturbance to this ewe group and
may encourage more extensive bighorn sheep use of Dead Indian Canyon habitat could result in
higher production rates.
2. Fencing shall be installed at the Art Smith Trailhead which will effectively assure that the re-routed
portion of the subject trail segment is not used during the most sensitive times of the year. Fencing
shall also be installed to preclude seasonal access into Carrizo Canyon. Entrance gates shall be
installed in the subject fencing to allow trail user access during the unrestricted times of the year.
3. The Schey Trail segment located south of Cat Canyon shall be de -commissioned to lessen or
eliminate the intrusion of trail users into the Magnesia Spring Ecological Reserve during lambing and
hot weather periods. De -commissioning shall proceed following assessment of the cultural resource
value of this trail.
4. That portion of the original Art Smith Trail located west of the proposed exclusion fence may be
subject to permanent de -commissioning.
2 "Recovery Plan for Bighorn Sheep in the Peninsular Range, California" Prepared by the US Fish and Wildlife Service
in cooperation with BLM, USFS, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, CDFG and California Department of Parks
and Recreation. October 2000.
-15-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 16
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
5. CDFG will close off the upper elevation, one-way extension of the Mirage Trail to reduce disturbance
to the Ramon Peak lambing area and bighorn sheep habitat in the Magnesia Spring Ecological
Reserve.
B. Habitat Protection
1. The trail route shall be refined in the field to the greatest extent practicable to limit disturbance to
drainages, barrel cactus, ocotillo, mesquites, acacias, palo verde and other native trees and plants or
other sensitive plant communities providing important habitat. This shall be accomplished by careful
staking and enforcing the limits of trail construction, establishing staging areas and routes of travel in
already disturbed or undisturbed areas.
2. In order to comply with the federal Migratory Treaty Bird Ace (MBTA), any vegetation or tree
removal between February 1 and August 15`h shall require a qualified biologist to conduct at least one
nesting bird survey (more if deemed necessary by the consulting biologist) ending no less than three
days prior to grading. In the event active nests are found, exclusionary fencing shall be placed 200
feet around each nest.
Mitigation Monitoring and Report
1. The City, BLM and CDFG shall monitor the construction of the subject trail and assure that the
established alignment is adhered to. Minor variations may be permitted to avoid sensitive resources.
2. The City, BLM and/or CDFG shall provide for the periodic (at least monthly) inspection of project -
related fencing at the Art Smith Trailhead and in Dead Indian Canyon to assure that restricted areas
are not encroached into either purposefully or accidentally. Cuts or breaks in fencing shall be repaired
within 30-days.
Potentially Less Than Less Than
No
Significant Significant w/ Significant
Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES --
Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in
X
the significance of a historical resource as
defined in ' 15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in
X
the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to ' 15064.5?
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
X
paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
d) Disturb any human remains, including
X
those interred outside of formal
cemeteries?
The MBTA (16 U.S.C. §§ 703-712, July 3, 1918, as amended 1936, 1960, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1978, 1986 and 1989).
-16-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 17
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Sources: Crest Final EIR and associated Cultural Resources Survey and Report prepared by Michael
Hogan, Ph.D., CRM Tech. (2002); July 1994; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004).
Findings of Fact
V. aL) Many of the trails in the Coachella Valley and Santa Rosa Mountains were created by the Cahuilla
Indians and their ancestors or predecessors. Artifacts such as pottery sherds and flaked stone occur along
some of the trails and provide physical evidence of the prehistoric origins of the trails. Grinding slicks and
mortars may be found on bedrock outcrops adjacent to trails. Habitation and temporary camp sites may
also be located adjacent to trails. The recollections of Cahuilla elders and early non -Indian settlers speak to
the ancient origins of the trails (Barrows 1900; Bean, Vane, and Young 1991; Patencio 1943; Quinn 1977;
Strong 1929). Many trails are documented on the General Land Office survey maps from the late 1800s as
"Indian Trails." Three trails believed to have been established by the Cahuilla Indians or their
predecessors occur within the project area: the Dead Indian Canyon, Art Smith, and Carrizo Canyon Trails.
Because the trails lend themselves to an understanding of the broad patterns of our history and have the
potential to yield information important in prehistory or history, they may be eligible for inclusion in the
NRHP under criteria (A) and (D).
In addition, trails have been constructed by groups such as Desert Riders. Desert Riders has been
constructing and maintaining trails in the plan area since the 1920's. Historic period trails (those
constructed and in use more than 50 years ago) used by early cattle ranchers and recreational equestrians
may be eligible for inclusion in the NRHP under Criterion A for their association with the themes of local
economic development and the development of recreation. Both prehistoric and historic trails may be
eligible for listing on the NRHP individually or as properties within an archaeological or historic district.
These trails may qualify as historical resources or unique archaeological resources as defined by CEQA.
A review of the literature indicates that cultural resources surveys have been conducted in the project
vicinity identifying and evaluating the significance of archeological/historical resources. A variety of
cultural resources have been identified in the area including isolated artifacts such as small scatters of
potsherds, potsherds found in conjunction with other artifacts and features, bedrock milling features, and
trail segments.4 Additional inventories were conducted for the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains
Trails Plan.'
The State of California's Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 5020.1 defines "historical resources" as
including, but not limited to "any object, building, structure, site, area, place, record, or manuscript" which
is determined to be historically or archaeologically significant. Historical resources may also include those
that are determined to be significant "in the architectural, engineering, scientific, economic, agricultural,
educational, social, political, military, or cultural annals of California."
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines mandate that in order for a resource to be
considered historically significant it must meet the criteria for listing on the California Register of
Historical Resources. (Title 14, California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 15064.5(a)(1)-(3)).7
Inclusion on the California Register may occur if the resource meets any of the following criteria:
1. Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of
California's history and cultural heritage.
2. Is associated with the lives of persons important in our past.
3. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction,
or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses high artistic values.
4. Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
4 "Cultural Resources Technical Report for the City of Palm Desert General Plan," prepared by CRM Tech, April 11,
2000.
5 Identification and Evaluation of Historic Properties: Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Trails Plan," prepared by
CRM Tech, April 29, 2004.
6 California Public Resources Code Section 5024.1, Title 14 California Code of Regulations, Section 4850 et. seq.
7 "Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act," California Code of Regulations, Title
14, Division 6, Chapter 3. Section 15064.5(a)(1)-(3).
-17-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 18
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Criteria for the consideration of cultural resources of potential significance, and their appropriate
disposition, are established in Section 15126.4(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines.' Based on the findings of
the field survey operations and resource analyses, the subject trail alignment has been determined to contain
archeological resources. These resources do not have potential to provide additional important
archaeological information and therefore warranted no further consideration. 9,io
The proposed trail alignment lies in the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains and crosses numerous
canyons including Ramon Creek and Cat Creek. The majority of the trail traverses steep and rocky
hillsides, which have a low potential to contain significant cultural resources. Three sites were identified
along the trail route. One site, a lithic quarry, occurs on the crest of a ridge above Ramon Creek. Another
site occurs in a canyon and consists of bedrock milling features and a limited number of potsherds. The
third site consists of an isolated scatter of potsherds. None of these sites qualify as historic properties or
historical resources.
Mitigation Measures
Based upon earlier project -specific reports and the resource surveys conducted for this proposed trail, the
following mitigation is required:
1. Although the lithic quarry is not a historic property or historical resource, trail construction at that
location will be limited to marking the trail with cairns. This will leave the mineral source (quartz vein)
and associated lithic scatter undisturbed.
2. If during trail construction potential cultural resources are uncovered, construction in this area shall be
halted and a qualified archaeologist shall survey the potential importance of such resources and
determine their appropriate disposition.
3. The proposed Desert Crossings Connector Trail is unlikely to harbor sensitive cultural resources but
the proposed alignment should be surveyed prior to the initiation of construction.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS -- Would
the project:
a) Expose people or structures to potential
substantial adverse effects, including the
risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
X
8 "California Environmental Quality Act — Statutes and Guidelines," Prepared by the Governor's Office of Planning and
Research, State of California, 1998.
9 "Identification and Evaluation of Historic Properties: Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Trails Plan," prepared by
CRM Tech, April 29, 2004.
10 "Cultural Resources Inventory for Proposed Trails Actions: EA# 660-06-04", prepared by Wanda Raschkow, Bureau
of Land Management, October 14, 2005.
-18-
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent Aiquist-
Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map
issued by the State Geologist for the area
or based on other substantial evidence of a
known fault
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? X
iii) Seismic -related ground failure, X
including liquefaction
iv) Landslides? X
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the
loss of topsoil?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined
in Table 18-1-13 of the Uniform Building
Code (1994), creating substantial risks to
life or property
e) Have soils incapable of adequately
supporting the use of septic tanks or
alternative waste water disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the
disposal of waste water?
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 19
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
X
M
X
Sources: Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); PDGP Seismic, Geologic and Flooding Technical
Report, Earth Consultants Intl. (2002); Geotechnical Enginnering report for Crest Country Chub , Earth
Systems Southwest. (2001).
Findings of Fact
Soils:
The planning area occurs within and at the base of the foothills and plateaus of the Santa Rosa Mountains
in the south-central area of the Coachella Valley. The soils that occur on the area are primarily composed of
rock outcrop in the upper elevations, and soils of the Riverwash and Carsitas series' in the lower elevations
and toward the Palm Valley Stormwater Channel". Below is a generalized discussion of the soils occurring
along the trail route and in the project vicinity.
RT - Rock Outcrop Lithic Torrispsamments complex
Substantial portions of the proposed trail alignment occur within this soils type. The soils occurring in this
area consist primarily of rock outcrop of the Lithic Torrispsamments complex (RT). This soil type is
formed from metasedimentary rocks, granite, granodiorite or gabbro. It has low shrink -swell potential and
low erosive properties. The soil type is rated moderate for risk of corrosion for uncoated steel and low for
concrete.
RO - Rock Outcrop
This soil type occurs throughout much of the project planning area and is associated with the exposed
foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains. It occurs on rolling to very steep land, and comprises the majority
of the Santa Rosa Mountains. It occurs along much of the trail planning area. Much of the surface is
covered with outcrop of granite, gneiss, mica schist, and sandstone, with a 1- to 6-inch layer of sand,
gravelly sand, or loamy sand between the outcrop. Because of its often steep slopes and minimal depth to
11 "Soil Survey of Riverside County, California, Coachella Valley Area," prepared by US Dept. of Agriculture Soil
Conservation Service, September, 1980.
-19-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 20
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA110.10.05
rock, this soil type is severely restricted for shallow excavations. This soil type has low shrink -swell and
erosion potential.
RA — Riverwash
Riverwash is a water -deposited stony, cobbly, and gravelly coarse sand. This soil is found in and adjacent
to stream channels, and contains minor amounts of fine material, but is primarily comprised of sand, gravel
and cobbles, with occasional boulders of up to three feet. Riverwash soils typically have a low shrink -swell
potential but have a high erosion potential due to slope and location within drainages. Riverwash occurs
along very limited portions of the trail alignment.
ChC (Carsitas cobbly sand)
These soils typically occur on slopes of 2 to 9 percent. Cobbles and sand are found on the surface as well
as within the soil profile. Runoff is rapid, erosion potential is moderate and the hazard of blowing soil is
considered slight. The pH of these soils ranges from 7.9 to 8.4, they have a low shrink -swell potential. This
soil type occurs on very limited portions of the proposed trail alignment.
Regional Geologic Setting
The Coachella Valle and the City of Palm Desert are located in the western part of the Salton Trough
Province, a region of Southern California considered to be the northward extension of the Gulf of
California. Movement between the Pacific and North American tectonic plates occurs at an estimated rate of
about 50 mm per year, in a northwesterly direction relative to the North American plate. Earthquakes
occurring in Southern California are clustered along the boundary between these two plates.12
The various segments of the San Andreas Fault Zone forms the main break along the plate boundary, with
the nearest fault (Banning Branch) being located approximately seven miles northeast of the proposed trail
alignment. Approximately 70 percent of the movement between the Pacific and North American plates is
accommodated along this segment of the San Andreas Fault Zone. The remainder of the movement is
distributed along a series of faults east of the San Andreas Fault, known as the Mojave Shear Zone, as well
as several sub -parallel faults west of the San Andreas. These include the San Jacinto, Whittier -Elsinore,
Newport -Inglewood, Palos Verdes, and several offshore faults.13
Seismic Risk Assessment
Earthquake severity is classified according to magnitude and seismic intensity. Magnitude measures the
amount of energy released when a fault ruptures, while intensity estimates the damage caused by an
earthquake at a given location. A maximum credible earthquake (MCE) is the largest earthquake likely to
occur on a fault or fault segment. MCE's are also referred to as "characteristic earthquakes."
Characteristic earthquakes are used by scientists and engineers to evaluate a region's seismic hazard in
order to plan for various levels of earthquake severity and associated risk.
Peak ground acceleration (PGA) measures the maximum horizontal ground motion generated by an
earthquake. It measures acceleration of gravity equal to 32 feet per second squared, or 980 centimeter per
second squared. It is usually expressed as a percentage of gravity (g).14 Peak ground acceleration and
seismic intensity values generally decrease as distance from the causative fault decreases.15 Other factors,
including rock and soil deposit attenuations, direction of rupture and type of fault, may cause variability in
ground motion within an area.
12 "Seismic, Geologic and Flooding Sections of the Technical Background Report to the Safety Element of the General
Plan for the City of Palm Desert, Riverside, County, California," prepared by Earth Consultants International,
January,2002.
13 Ibid.
14 "Natural Hazard Mapping, Analysis, and Mitigation: Technical Background Report in Support of the Safety Element
of the New Riverside County 2000 General Plan," prepared by Earth Consultants International, August 1, 2000.
15 "Seismic, Geologic and Flooding Sections of the Technical Background Report to the Safety Element of the General
Plan for the City of Palm Desert, Riverside, County, California," prepared by Earth Consultants International,
January, 2002.
-20-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 21
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Seismicitv: The trail planning area is located approximately 7 miles southwest of the San Andreas Fault
and is within a Zone III groundshaking zone. The trail alignment is not located within an Alquist Priolo
Fault Hazard Study Zone and no active faulting is expected to occur in the project vicinity. The area will be
subject to significant ground movement in the event of a major earthquake, with potential ground
acceleration ranging from 0.26 to 0.31g during a major nearby quake. Perched boulders and loosely
consolidated rock and soils may be dislodged during a strong seismic event.
Soils Erosion: The planning area is not located in a blowsand hazard area, and will therefore not be subject
to significant soil erosion from wind, nor are the trail construction activities expected to result in substantial
disturbances that would expose large areas to wind erosion. Small portions of the proposed trail are subject
to limited flooding erosion, however, most of the trail is not expected to be affected by flooding erosion.
The trail construction will include storm runoff diversions to limit flooding erosion on the trail, which will
also serve to control of soil erosion.
Slopes and Hillside Conservation: Portions of the proposed trail alignment are located adjacent or
encroaching into areas with slope in excess of 20%, some of which also show signs of instability and
sloughing. Other areas of the proposed trail are located adjacent to rocky outcroppings some of which are
highly fractured and may include perched rock subject to dislocation in a strong seismic event. Concerns
regarding slope stability are addressed through the proposed design of the trail, which should adequately
mitigate rockfall or rolling boulder hazards.
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation measures are provided as general prescriptions addressing soils and erosion, and seismic/slope
stability, and are set forth below.
1. The trail alignment shall be refined to avoid placement of trail users immediately below areas of
unstable slope or perched rock to the greatest extent practicable.
2. Trail placement and design shall limit gradient or steepness to the greatest extent practicable.
3. The trial shall include periodic stormwater runoff diversions to minimize trail erosion from local
flooding events.
4. The trail plan shall protect hillsides and the isolated rock outcroppings located in the planning area to
the greatest extent practicable.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
1. The City, BLM and/or CDFG shall periodically review the trail construction activities and assure that
appropriate constriction techniques are applied consistent with the above cited mitigation measures.
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
VII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS --Would the proiect:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public X
or the environment through the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous
materials?
b) Create a significant hazard to the public X
or the environment through reasonably
foreseeable upset and accident conditions
involving the release of hazardous
materials into the environment?
-21-
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within one -quarter
mile of an existing or proposed school?
d) Be located on a site which is included
on a list of hazardous materials sites
compiled pursuant to Government Code
Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it
create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment?
e) For a project located within an airport
land use plan or, where such a plan has
not been adopted, within two miles of a
public airport or public use airport, would
the project result in a safety hazard for
people residing or working in the area?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a
private airstrip, would the project result in
a safety hazard for people residing or
working in the project area?
g) Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with an adopted emergency
response or evacuation plan?
h) Expose people or structures to a
significant risk of loss, injury or death
involving wildland fires, including where
wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas
or where residences are intermixed with
wildlands? (General Plan land use map)
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 22
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
X
X
X
X
Sources: Project description and map; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Riverside County
General Plan, 2003.
Findings of Fact
VII. a)-h) The proposed trail re-routes and new trail construction is not expected to result in significant
impacts associated with hazardous materials. Neither is the project expected to impair the implementation of
or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. The trail
planning area and surrounding mountains are characterized by low -density vegetation and fuel loads; the
vicinity is in an area subject to a "low" wildland fires hazard (Riverside County General Plan, Wildfire
Susceptibility map, Fig. S-11.2003).
Mitigation Measures
No mitigation measures required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
No specific monitoring or reporting required.
-22-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 23
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Potentially Less Than Less Than
No
Significant Significant w/ Significant
Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER
QUALITY -- Would the project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or
X
waste discharge requirements?
b) Substantially deplete groundwater
X
supplies or interfere substantially with
groundwater recharge such that there would
be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a
lowering of the local groundwater table level
(e.g., the production rate of pre-existing
nearby wells would drop to a level which
would not support existing land uses or
planned uses for which permits have been
granted)?
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage
X
pattern of the site or area, including through
the alteration of the course of a stream or
river, in a manner resulting in substantial
erosion or siltation on- or off -site?
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage X
pattern of the site or area, including through
the alteration of the course of a stream or
river, or substantially increase the rate or
amount of surface runoff in a manner that
would result in flooding on- or off -site?
e) Create or contribute runoff water which X
would exceed the capacity of existing or
planned stormwater drainage systems or
provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff?
f) Place housing within a 100-year flood X
hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood
Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate
Map or other flood hazard delineation map?
g) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area X
structures, which would impede or redirect
flood flows?
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Crest Hydrology
Analysis/Plan, Pacific Advanced Civil Engineering (2002); Riverside County General Plan, 2003.
-23-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 24
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Findings of Fact
VIII. a) — g))
Water Resources
The proposed trails plan involves the realignment or re-routing of existing trails, the de -commissioning of
other trail segments, and the construction of new trail segments. No bodies of water are affected by any of
these actions, however, the trails cross stormwater detention basins and drainage features, including the
Dead Indian Canyon debris basin, Cat Canyon Creek, Bruce Creek and Ramon Creek. These basins and
drainages are dry except during periods of substantial rain and runoff. The proposed action will result in
very limited clearing of rocks and boulders, limited compaction and will not introduce foreign or toxic
materials. Impacts associated with trail construction activities and use will result in less than significant
impacts to these facilities and drainages and will have no significant impact on water quality or quantity.
Flooding and Hvdroloev
As noted above in the discussion regarding soils and geology, and water resources, the proposed trail
project will cross flood control facilities and small local drainages. The project includes the construction of
a trail user exclusion fence along the western portion of the Dead Indian Canyon debris basin, which will
consist of six-foot chain link or comparable fencing with a continuous bottom section that will be designed
to swing free during major storm events. Such fencing has been constructed elsewhere in the vicinity (East
Cathedral Canyon Wash) and has proven an effective barrier while not unduly obstructing storm flows.
Therefore, the proposed trails project is not expected to substantially alter the existing drainage pattern
along the trail alignment or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a
manner resulting in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off -site. Neither will the project substantially
increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner that would result in flooding on- or off -site. No
impermeable surfaces will be constructed in associated with the project and trail compaction is not expected
to create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater
drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. The project will not result in
the siting of homes or other structures for human habitation within a flood zone as designated by FEMA.
Mitigation Measures
Plans for proposed fencing to exclude seasonal trail access into Dead Indian and Carrizo Canyons
shall be submitted to the City and/or the Coachella Valley Water District for approval. Approval of
the fencing shall be secured before its installation.
2 The trial shall include periodic stormwater runoff diversions to minimize trail erosion from local
flooding events.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
1. Construction plans for proposed fencing in Dead Indian and Carrizo Canyons shall be approved by
the City and/or the Coachella Valley Water District prior to installation. The City and/or CV WD shall
inspect the fence installation prior to final approval.
2. The City, BLM and/or CDFG shall periodically inspect and monitor the construction of the subject
trail to assure conformance with mitigation measures and design guidelines.
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING -
Would the project:
HE
a) Physically divide an established
community?
b) Conflict with any applicable land use
plan, policy, or regulation of an agency
with jurisdiction over the project
(including, but not limited to the general
plan, specific plan, local coastal program,
or zoning ordinance) adopted for the
purpose of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect?
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 25
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
X
X
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat X
conservation plan or natural community
conservation plan?
Sources: Project description and maps; Aerial photos of plan area; Palm Desert General Plan and
Program EIR (2004); Riverside County General Plan, 2003.
Findings of fact
IX. a)-c) The proposed trail alignment will not divide an existing community but rather will provide a
continuous multiple -use trail accessible from existing trailheads and from adjoining residential
developments including The Canyons and Cahuilla Hills neighborhoods. The proposed trail will also tie
into existing trail networks emanating from the Homme-Adams and Cahuilla Hills Parks in Palm Desert,
and from the eastern portion of the Magnesia Falls cove in Rancho Mirage. The trail will not adversely
impact existing land uses, which already benefit from trails in the immediate project vicinity. The proposed
alignment along the southern and eastern border of Stone Eagle Golf Course is consistent with the
alignment considered by the City of palm desert during its processing and approval of that project. The
proposed trail route is consistent with the Palm Desert General Plan and is compatible with the County of
Riverside and US BLM regional trails plans. The proposed trail alignment is also consistent with the
proposed Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Trails Plan. The proposed trail represents a continuation
of comparable existing and planned trails in the project vicinity. The proposed trail project is also consistent
and compatible with the Magnesia Falls Ecological Preserve and the Draft Coachella Valley Multiple
Species Habitat Conservation Plan.
Mitigation Measures
No mitigation measures required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
X. MINERAL RESOURCES -- Would
the project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a
known mineral resource that would be of
value to the region and the residents of the
state?
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
0
-25-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 26
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/l0.10.05
b) Result in the loss of availability of a X
locally -important mineral resource
recovery site delineated on a local general
plan, specific plan or other land use plan?
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR, 2004; State Mineral
Resources maps.
Findings of Fact
Aggregate resources in the Coachella Valley were evaluated by the California Department of Conservation,
Division of Mines and Geology (DMG), now known as the California Geological Survey, (CGS) in a 1988
report entitled, "Aggregate Land Classification: Aggregate Materials in the Palm Springs Production -
Consumption Region"' . The proposed project area is within the MRZ-3 Zone, which includes "Areas
containing mineral deposits, the significance of which cannot be evaluated from available data. MRZ-3
includes lands composed of Cabazon Fanglomerate, Ocotillo Conglomerate, Painted Hills Formation, Palm
Springs Formation, Mecca Formation, and metamorphic rocks of the San Jacinto Mountains and the San
Gorgonio Complex. The subject property is not located in proximity to any mineral resource recovery area,
is characterized by rocky outcroppings and does not occur near an identified source of sand and gravel,
which are the only mineral resources of value exploited in the Coachella Valley.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
Potentially
Less Than Less Than No
Significant
Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact
Mitigation Impact
XI. NOISE Would the project result in:
a) Exposure of persons to or generation of
X
noise levels in excess of standards
established in the local general plan or
noise ordinance, or applicable standards of
other agencies?
b) Exposure of persons to or generation
X
of excessive groundborne vibration or
groundborne noise levels?
c) A substantial permanent increase in
X
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity
above levels existing without the project?
d) A substantial temporary or periodic
X
increase in ambient noise levels in the
project vicinity above levels existing
without the project?
16 "Mineral Land Classification: Aggregate Materials in the Palm Springs Production -Consumption Region.," prepared
by the California Department of Conservation Division of Mines and Geology, 1988.
-26-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 27
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
e) For a project located within an airport X
land use plan or, where such a plan has
not been adopted, within two miles of a
public airport or public use airport, would
the project expose people residing or
working in the project area to excessive
noise levels?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a X
private airstrip, would the project expose
people residing or working in the project
area to excessive noise levels?
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004).
Findings of fact
The proposed project involves the re-routing of existing trail segments through the construction of new trail
alignments. Trail construction will be accomplished through a combination of hand -work and a custom-
built trail machine, with professional trail construction supervision to occur along the full length of the trail.
Pick-up trucks will constitute the largest vehicles associated with trail construction. The construction of the
fence in Dead Indian and Carrizo Canyon will be accomplished primarily through the use of hand tools and
will occur well away from residences and other sensitive receptors. On -site power may be needed for short
periods to mix concrete for fence posts.
Homes are considered sensitive receptors to noise, and if high noise levels were associated with the trail's
construction these activities could have a negative if limited, impact on nearby residences. Given the relative
quiet of the trail construction machine, the distance to most homes and the short-term nature of the noise
source, trail construction activity is not expected to have a significant impact on nearby residences or the
local noise environment. The use of the trail will be limited to hikers and equestrian riders. No motorized
vehicles will be permitted on the subject trail.
Mitigation Measures
In order to reduce these potential impacts, the following mitigation measures shall be implemented:
1. All internal combustion equipment used in trail construction shall generate limited noise levels and/or
shall be fitted with properly operating mufflers and air intake silencers, as necessary
2. All stationary construction equipment (e.g. generators and compressors) shall be located as far away
from existing homes and other sensitive receptors as possible.
3. Construction activities shall be limited to the hours prescribed in the Palm Desert Municipal Code.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
The City shall review the trail construction plans and assure that stationary noise sources and trail
construction machine, as well as equipment maintenance and staging areas sources are located sufficiently
away from existing residences. City inspectors, as well as contractors, shall regularly monitor construction
operations and associated noise generation near residences.
XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING —
Would the project:
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
-27-
a) Induce substantial population growth in
an area, either directly (for example, by
proposing new homes and businesses) or
indirectly (for example, through extension
of roads or other infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of
existing housing, necessitating the
construction of replacement housing
elsewhere?
c) Displace substantial numbers of people,
necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 28
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
//
M
X
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Riverside County
General Plan (2003).
Findings of Fact
The proposed trails project will not induce population growth, either directly or indirectly, nor displace
existing housing or necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere. The project will also
not displace people or necessitate the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES
a) Would the project result in substantial
adverse physical impacts associated with
the provision of new or physically altered
governmental facilities, need for new or
physically altered governmental facilities,
the construction of which could cause
significant environmental impacts, in order
to maintain acceptable service ratios,
response times or other performance
objectives for any of the public services:
Fire protection? X
Police protection? X
Schools? X
Parks? X
Other public facilities? X
W-1
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 29
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/l0.10.05
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Riverside County
General Plan (2003).
Findings of Fact
Buildout of the site will have no significant adverse impact on public services. The proposed trail project
may have substantial beneficial impacts on local schools and parks by providing open space, recreation and
exercise opportunities at a level not currently available in the project vicinity. At least two public parks are
located in proximity and connected to the subject trail alignment, which will augment these park facilities.
One private school is located in proximity to the proposed trail and one public elementary school is located
relatively close to the Mirage Trail segment of the project. Both schools could conceivably benefit from the
new trails.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
Potentially Less Than Less Than
Significant Significant w/ Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
XIV. RECREATION --
a) Would the project increase the use of
existing neighborhood and regional parks
or other recreational facilities such that
substantial physical deterioration of the
facility would occur or be accelerated?
No
Impact
b) Does the project include recreational X
facilities or require the construction or
expansion of recreational facilities, which
might have an adverse physical effect on
the environment?
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Riverside County
General Plan (2003).
Findings of Fact
The proposed trail project will have a mix of beneficial and adverse impacts on the local trail system but will
in the overall have a net positive benefit. The project includes the seasonal closure of the Dead Indian
Canyon trail that access the palm oasis at the mouth of this canyon. The project includes the construction of
exclusion fences to prevent trail use in Carrizo and Dead Indian Canyon during the restricted period, with
gates to be provided and unlocked during the non -restricted periods. The seasonal closure of Carrizo
Canyon trail is not a direct result of this project but is a previous action of the California Department of
Fish and Game. The closure of the upper portion of the Mirage Trail is also a CDFG action and is not a
direct result of the proposed trial project.
Other seasonal or complete trail closures that will result from the implementation of the proposed action
include the re-routing of the Art Smith trail to allow the use of this trail during all but the hot season (June
15 to September 30). A portion of the Art Smith Trail from within the Dead Indian Canyon would be
closed permanently and the re-route would provide the aforementioned alternative access to the main
portion of this trail. The Northern Schey Trail will be closed permanently, as will several small trail
segments in the southern portion of the planning area. In the northern planning area, westward trails leading
into the Magnesia Falls Ecological Reserve would also be closed.
-29-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 30
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
The positive or beneficial impacts associated with this project include the addition of approximately five
miles of continuous trail between and including the Dead Indian Canyon/Art Smith Trail to the south and
extending northward to and joining with the Mirage Trail, which extends into Rancho Mirage. Included in
the project are other trail segments that will provide additional hiking opportunities, including the desert
Crossing Connector Trail, which will provide an additional loop trail in the northern portion of the planning
area. The proposed trail will also increase connectivity with trails originating in Homme-Adams Park and
Cahuilla Hills Park. The overall or net effect of the project is that it will have a beneficial impact on
recreation opportunities in the project area. The project is not expected to increase the use of existing
neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration
of the facility would occur or be accelerated. The project is not expected to include recreational facilities or
require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities that might have an adverse physical effect on
the environment.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
XV. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC
-- Would the project:
a) Cause an increase in traffic, which is X
substantial in relation to the existing traffic
load and capacity of the street system (i.e.,
result in a substantial increase in either the
number of vehicle trips, the volume to
capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at
intersections)?
b) Exceed, either individually or X
cumulatively, a level of service standard
established by the county congestion
management agency for designated roads
or highways?
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, X
including either an increase in traffic levels
or a change in location that results in
substantial safety risks?
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a X
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or
dangerous intersections) or incompatible
uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? X
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? X
-30-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 31
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or X
programs supporting alternative transport-
ation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)?
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Riverside County
General Plan and EIR (2003).
Findings of Fact
The proposed trails project has a modest and less than significant potential to increase use of the local trail
net work, which could result in an equally modest increase in vehicle travel to the existing trailheads that
will serve the proposed trail network. Existing trailhead facilities provide well -designed and ample parking
at the Art Smith Trailhead, as well as at Homme-Adams and Cahuilla Hills Park. As noted elsewhere in this
EA, significant numbers of prospective trail users reside or attend school in the immediate project vicinity
and could access and use the trail without the need for motor vehicle use.
Based upon the trails design, the existing access and parking facilities, and the close -by users, the proposed
trail project is not expected to cause an increase in traffic, which is substantial in relation to the existing
traffic load and capacity of the street system. Neither is the project expected to generate traffic that would
exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion
management agency for designated roads or highways. The project will not result in a change in air traffic
patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety
risks. It will not substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses, effect or result in inadequate emergency access, result in inadequate
parking capacity, or conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE
SYSTEMS Would the project:
a) Exceed wastewater treatment
requirements of the applicable Regional
Water Quality Control Board?
b) Require or result in the construction of
new water or wastewater treatment
facilities or expansion of existing facilities,
the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
Potentially Less Than
Significant Significant w/
Impact Mitigation
Less Than No
Significant Impact
Impact
NN
-31-
c) Require or result in the construction of
new storm water drainage facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the
construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
d) Have sufficient water supplies available
to serve the project from existing
entitlements and resources, or are new or
expanded entitlements needed?
e) Result in a determination by the
wastewater treatment provider that serves
or may serve the project that it has
adequate capacity to serve the project's
projected demand in addition to the
provider's existing commitments?
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 32
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
91
/9/
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient X
permitted capacity to accommodate the
project's solid waste disposal needs?
g) Comply with federal, state, & local X
solid waste statutes and regulations?
Sources: Project description and maps; Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Riverside County
General Plan (2003).
Findings of Fact
The project will not require the development nor use local domestic water or sewer systems. It will not
affect or require the construction of new or additional stormwater management facilities, nor will the project
affect ground or surface waters serving the area. The project will have no effect on local landfills and will
generate no solid waste that is subject to local, state or federal regulation.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required.
XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF
SIGNIFICANCE --
a) Does the project have the potential to
degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or
wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining
levels' threaten to eliminate a plant or
animal community, reduce the number or
Potentially Less Than Less Than
Significant Significant w/ Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
X
No
Impact
-32-
restrict the range of a rare or endangered
plant or animal or eliminate important
examples of the major periods of
California history or prehistory?
b) Does the project have the potential to
achieve short-term, to the disadvantage of X
long-term environmental goals?
c) Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? ("Cumulatively consider-
able" means that the incremental effects of
a project are considerable when viewed in
connection with the effects of past
projects, the effects of other current
projects, and the effects of probable future
projects)?
d) Does the project have environmental
effects, which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either
directly or indirectly?
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 33
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
►91
Sources: Palm Desert General Plan and EIR (2004); Crest Golf Course and Subdivision (2002);
Biological Assessment for the Crest (Stone Eagle) Development, AMEC Earth & Environmental, 2002;
Coachella Valley Draft and Final MSHCP & EIR/S; "Cultural Resources Inventory for Proposed Trails
Actions: EA# 660-06-04", US Bureau of Land Management, October 14, 2005.
Findings of Fact
XVII. a): The project has a limited potential to degrade the quality of the environment by minimally
reducing wildlife habitat for sensitive species, including the Peninsular bighorn sheep. With the use
restrictions and trail closures associated with this project, it will not cause a fish or wildlife population to
drop below self-sustaining levels, nor will it threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the
number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the
major periods of California history or prehistory. Mitigation measures are included in this document to
avoid and minimize impacts to a less than significant level.
XVII. b): The proposed trail project supports the long-term goals of the Palm Desert and Riverside County
General Plans by providing a variety of hiking and equestrian opportunities for City and County residents.
Concurrent with development of the proposed trail network, substantial less environmentally friendly trail
segments will be closed or regulated. Long-term environmental goals are not expected to be significantly
compromised by approval ad development of the subject trails project.
XVII. c): The project results in limited impacts to existing trails and trail use that are individually limited,
and are not considered to be cumulatively considerable. Te incremental effects of the trails project are,
positive in the overall when viewed in connection with the effects of past trails construction, closure and
other recreation -oriented activities.
XVII. d): The proposed project is not expected to have a potentially adversely affect human beings, either
directly or indirectly. The overall effect of the proposed trail project is expected to be beneficial and will
increase recreational opportunities and complement public health.
Mitigation Measures
None required beyond those set forth in the above analysis.
-33-
TN/City of Palm Desert / Page 34
Art Smith to Mirage Trails EA/10.10.05
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
None required beyond those set forth in the above analysis.
XVIII. EARLIER ANALYSES.
Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, one or more effects have
been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case a discussion should
identify the following on attached sheets:
a) Earlier analyses used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they are available for review.
The following documents have served as the basis of the analysis conducted in this Initial Study and are
available for review at the Palm Desert City Hall, Community Development Department, located at 73-510
Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA. 92260. Contact person is Mr. Phil Drell, Community Development
Director, who can be reached at (760) 346-0611.
Environmental Impact Report for the Crest (Stone Eagle) Golf Course & Residential Project (2002
General Plan and Program Environmental Impact report for the Palm Desert General Plan (2004)
Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Environmental Impact Report (2005)
Riverside County General Plan Environmental Impact Report (2003)
b) Impacts adequately addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and
adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed
by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis.
Not applicable.
c) Mitigation measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated," describe the
mitigation measures, which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -
specific conditions for the project.
See above categorical discussions and mitigation measures.
-34-
.e
McXiGO
Beaumont 6z • Dmn Hot Springs
r-I
L.. _A TERRANOVA
Planning & Research, Inc.
Palm Springs
Cathedral City
Itartcho Mirage
Palm Desert
Indian Wells
La Quinta
Uton Sea
Regional Map
City of Palm Desert
Hopalong Cassidy Trail Project
D LQ Ln'K H k
No Scale
Blythe
Exhibit
0
t
.� MM
-
n
NIS-
10
i ARIZ
i
�.� •� � � ` �' ~�� tom* � �'
-
�O
".4":" ..,
4�5`"'n."' ,"h �"k' •�C,' ay ° 'w-s, - _ - E i� IPY x 1. .. .:'■ +x *` - G%
,��„t�'' as e� 4 ° � '" ,�� - .k ,: t � �. ,, ■' ,, �a n.� 16
wl
rrA
rj
I.
Tk
ti wro
{ I:
� n s
WA
0 a
a. ^* •'"'�x *� o .ket �' 'tu �+ �' �1. '� �.£� Li: '"� � �, - �.�,.4,.^ ICY
- �. a'+ �-nrsgx �"# �tt . Cu°s '3 " n �y�,i � a - as 'x 4 4;. °ry�c„� # t , -�!a �. �/ •Q
s
�c qe-�
�
Wit
Ir
;
t
qt
�1a
t t
�G
k
,.
.00
RTf:
ol
1 WON,
r
C'T�3 3
MCI
x'
f
t
r i.s�€ rry
,a
... Fred OVarigtDrivdx�.�
rp
go
co
{
� Haystack C�i� � ~• �, , u ,� �` �
,
k
�4 �?
W
w
Hopalong Cassidy Trail
Northern Schey Trail
.�;ti �'• .r -' Y: F• ; , _ ;,.. : Y Can,
Art Smith Trail
R:.`..
Southern Schey Trail •4'
. ,% } _ --� '' r.i.^�". �__ '-� ice: 'lil, e : �.;;�,tiar`•.� _'._-...:="ti_.;'.�-
1 Vie• '{•^ �*'-' '. `, I'' �—=":`�
,��=Y `..r w.,-.,ty�,., ,,- P��r..;�; .a ! ..,,,,:"_ ..Y'...�•.. -rY�:r .4
:. "' • Dead In
Creek
+•I�• _ _�'..\ •' S~ .11i {'.' "{4~-'- 9-�a°ll't+,.....:.!'4-�. i'L ,`�� :Y�'r'J:'
.� l '� •�', .` ' , ;' ��' ,'..` � .I ~'"fir• ,,� t.'.� Ty I, - _ • ti • � ^ • (' '•.. ..1 ± # � •
......,_�•, 1.-S`�:-rr• - ; Yam.. `q "` J�:. '.,`.5j - "-�-5' _ _ .., 1'., I;.. % .
Source: US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
I + I + I
0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles
f
'+ S _ Route
{.; Art Smith
i Trailhead
1 ,
�•�(— �. 'i lam. .. ..hl.
Existing Open Trails
Proposed New Trails
Proposed Trail Closures
- - - Proposed Fence
State and Federal Lands
State Lands --State Lands Commissior
US Bureau of Land Management
I —I Hopalong Cassidy Trail Route
J TERRA NOVA' City of Palm Desert
Planning & Research, Inc. Hopalong Cassidy Trail Project
Exhibit
0
„��: _f`1•`. � �t: `.-•�y,:+-�'r:•9*rtii "v'"^s���v.'�s:a ,",��.sia u'"',.•�n d+ •I
%•'' ' _ '`` - Cahuilla Hills Park
' 4 .r�' Y _-.^.-�'�'�i-•-.. n �.v� ;�vf'.-y 'i2•U,9[�.�,r�-.,,'d3�
-' - :^. �`I, ;:i" .i v. - i'1if#" +.f, �J`'f•r'rAsr-d:a �' " '
Homme-Adams Park
55z.
,
}i',�'.'f: .-'.r'•+_. ,'S`.'';h. '��:._ i,..I �.j - t,+,,'�4a-+�: .•;�'''V- •yf~ '�c- ..y �j :'••a.
-•ir `•^ ',�,'yi -_ - ,''i'• I'I',`'' dy. , �' .'S;: i - _1- t'� � �% •� '•t��,j•-° �`��,;' 'i- " •'N�5&f' -{'.
Cassidy Trail Stone E•age_.�
_ -�� 3 '. 4�- •,e� `t.,l' � �- . ....,.
;Golf Coarse..ipr- Haystack Drive
ri. rr _ �tl'ii''I�: ��_ err'! ,"i--',f - _. '+•K; _ y�`x ..
✓'r. - � .1 w - �:r•.:'1'^`.-jr �_ _ _ -(..l `' :,i, t'�i.�-'rT.'r-�' .'0. i_- _ .t _ _ ' `'
��, �� r e , , , • .
:� � - 'i!'.`.'�T+.•`r�.+' _ -. �-_ .^ _� - - -- -t.�':'`, a ,:'...-_-,-:��.+_r�� -- ""°:r: p, i . I.. � �- - -• _ter ��::;-
Wk
f '�„ .s,•.a' .�e-`' ?: "• �i , -ems:-'- � ` E�3r••..,..... ��"`' -i;;.i .. ...
._J."fit'" ��i"' ,gyp. - __ _ _- — ��"? ' _ _=r^':-_.,r"-'�' . '.� a-. .I•�x• r. -w`x' '
�'�:Yy fiS�o- :f.;�-�`S'-4M1' -f +r y�'y�t' � ,tl"`j _ _ - - `.5 ��'.. _ - .. - •: `'--- _ 1
�I-- --.J f�'.`� I• - -�. " `��tl 4,'l'` ��'w;',:'._ �3' a ��•-i ..,..'.�•r !� -
'J/'I
7 y•'t'o;' p `'�� �•�` _.;i 1^' - - �r- �-i .�'� = rl-dt�. •"�. "e,,:i .:-y_'f'.
}.te�.i*,.-:i- '. c r; : !: �';1 "' r 7„y -':" ''rt' •f ! ' ' d? iw."':i w?-^��
;IA!- `�. 's :k `• " i `t tr�'.-�i• _ ii Y.4: :»<• 3
}': y',(�F�y - +; ,S'' ' f'�' -r `lLUfr _ p' -I. !•. ?,.��-, 3;a. �lA ,
.� '. Cat Creek
��s ,. _ "' - ; '14'rA 3 - '`7]' �.-�,��•i• ..:_?e,�r-^�.:t'�lq,�ti_. __ r�__ '''y� t'K ���'
1,11111
,w, ,�;`���:h��'' = _fr-�;,,�''' �' ,l' ' G�.Y�uiila•�I�%i1:s _ `�`: "� ``�'�� .=� F�Pk.,� ,,, , ,, ,,,,, ,, _ YiIS
1
t'-eh.. •i' fsr4i`�.'s`�-*f;-` �•I •'�o'. Is� -':,i .:.-".1 1� -
�''`if`' {{ r Northem Sche Trail
4'� 4,ti�= "'t`'S,�. ' I •-'-�.f �`:w-! ''" •�a^�..• ; [:-r. �. - 'r'A `-:I _ N.Y-"-f" _oh.' ,,4 "., -
^'�� tit kk> " '' 4 � � �,�� I � � � ' S.. ., , ���- J•",,:
Hopalong Cassidy Trail sia otft
Legend
l ^. _ m Existing Open Trails
i', . _ ..t,. Proposed New Trails
Proposed Trail Closures
Proposed Fence
Source: US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management State and Federal Lands
t I 1 I ® State Lands --State Lands Commissior
0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles = US Bureau of Land Management
/ -I Hopalong Cassidy Trail Route
TERRA NOVA ® City of Palm Desert
Planning & Research, Inc. Hopalong Cassidy Trail Project
Exhibit
E
7i sm-Ji c 1
TO
It
R'.
�o, -
v_!! NAM
`71
011
Desert Drive i
Rancho,. I
19
"V
%
main
MW
. . . . . . Desert Crossing
y- f +=;`'`' ` a'" : ir' tor Connec
Mirage Trail
AL A
'7 - Q,
UI#
-�Q i_
k
U
72
t q iv;�I.
e 7�
NA
7:
J_f4
'�z
5,
N
� 4105"
-N
4
7
L
R
Y_
A
Legend
-A 7. Existing Open Trails
Me,-'
'Stone Eagle;,,
Proposed New Trails
'G61f.Co
Proposed Trail Closures
Proposed Fence
Source: US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management State and Federal Lands
I I I I I = State Lands --State Lands Commissior
0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles 10. US Bureau of Land Manaaement
* J'c
Hopalong Cassidy Trail Route Exhibit
TERRA NOVA City of Palm Desert F
Planning & Research, Inc. Hopalong Cassidy Trail Project
CITY OF PALM DESERT
NOTICE OF INTENT
TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
DATE: October 14, 2005
TO: Responsible and Trustee Agencies/Interested Organizations and Individuals
FROM: City of Palm Desert
RE: Art Smith to Mirage Trail Environmental Assessment
The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental impacts of
the above referenced project under CEQA. The City has determined through the preparation of
an Initial Study that although the project has the potential to result in significant environmental
effects, these impacts will not be significant in this case because the mitigation measures
described in the detailed Initial Study have been added to the project. The Initial Study meets the
requirements of the State of California CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines, and the City Rules
for the Implementation of CEQA. A Mitigated Negative Declaration will be prepared.
Portions of the proposed project occur on lands managed by the US Bureau of Land
Management (BLM). Potential environmental impacts of the project on these Federal lands are
also evaluated by BLM under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
This notice constitutes a Notice of Intent (NOI) to adopt the aforementioned Mitigated Negative
Declaration.
Project Location/ Description:
Proiect Location: The project —construction of the Art Smith Trail reroute, Hopalong Cassidy
Trail, and Desert Crossing connector trail —begins at the Art Smith Trail trailhead located on SR
74 on US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands just south of the Palm Desert city limits.
The Art Smith Trail reroute then passes through lands managed by the Coachella Valley Water
District for flood control purposes and lands owned by the City of Palm Desert. The Hopalong
Cassidy Trail proceeds north from the rerouted Art Smith Trail through City lands, lands
managed by California Department of Fish and Game, private lands having provided trail
easements, additional BLM lands, and private lands within the City of Rancho Mirage corporate
limits. The Desert Crossing connector trail passes through private lands having provided trail
easements and City lands. The subject trails pass through portions of Sections 1, 2 & 12, T. 6S.,
R. SE.; Sections 13, 24, 25, 26, 35 & 36 T. 5S. R 5E.; and Sections 19 & 30, T.5S., R.6E.,
SBBM.
Proiect Description: This project involves the construction of trail segments to complete the Art
Smith Trail re-route and the Hopalong Cassidy Trail. Segments of these trails already exist:
portions of the existing Southern Schey and Canyon Trails will be incorporated in the Art Smith
Trail reroute; and portions of the existing Northern Schey Trail and Hopalong Cassidy Trail at
Homme-Adams Park will be incorporated in the completed Hopalong Trail from the Art Smith
Trail to the Mirage ("Bump and "Grind") Trail in Rancho Mirage. In addition, a short connector
trail from the Desert Crossing Shopping Center to the lower segment of the Mirage Trail is part
of the project. The project also includes the exclusion and/or seasonal closure of certain existing
trail segments associated with the overall project, as well as installation of fencing in Dead
Indian and Carrizo Canyons to preclude access on a seasonal basis.
Other permits: Approval from the California Fish and Game Commission, Encroachment
Permits from the Coachella Valley Water District, and approval from BLM.
Toxic Sites: No listed toxic sites are present on the project site.
Public Hearing: The City Council public hearing for this item has been tentatively set for
November 17, 2005, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at the Palm Desert City Council Chamber, 73510
Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260.
Public Review: The Initial Study and related documents are available for public review daily.
Members of the public may view these documents at the Planning Department, 73510 Fred
Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260, and submit written comments at or prior to the City
Council hearing.
If any group challenges the action in court, issues raised may be limited to only those issues
raised at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence at, or prior to
the City Council hearing.
An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions
regarding this case may be directed to Mr. Phil Drell, City of Palm Desert, at 760-346-0611.
Comment Period: Based on the time limits defined by CEQA, your response should be sent at
the earliest possible date. The public comment period on this project is from October 17 to
November 16, 2005. All comments and any questions should be directed to:
Mr. Phil Drell
Director of Community Development
City of Palm Desert
73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-0611