HomeMy WebLinkAboutGPA 97-01_PLANNING 2
IIUIIY� u� III �I�� uIYIN� II �� NIIY U��
SEPARATOR SHEET
A>x
Pwo,ERNUMeEa� PA 97_ oi
LEAD - IN SHEET
FILE NO: GPA 97-01 AP#
APPLICANT: Co M mull o)r Ir Cojo i y Ct oo c 2 3Qluo; vQo tittle 04 cffcli',
Name Address
OWNER: CouNT7 •r, some r - C000ril cEy74FZ.. klbc, OAoVi (if 04 lu'ly 6jr
Name Address
RESPRESENTATIVE: -T E4A) F4 22 E 1l r ,?,r COJAPr7 CiM r2 0.11 i/{ 010(1111f C4 SR4
Name Address
REQUEST:r¢ Pap Ih fA ID A O'D Gva?il., 474Ndt-iMFNT-T;o i4c CaO•✓T'`J
C EN f?..a( A cIgA , ?Nc PA#POSAC 60di�i?T at� C46071 WIDE GraTCA 4"C40T'•
Il�oFl, Go4U A�lrc SEI H�r,� PAo G�a,hs,
SIZE: Coy,4T'N wr
LOCATION:
SUPERVISORAL DISTRICT#A 11 EXISTING ZONING: A)14
ZONING HISTORY: NSA
SURROUNDING ZONING: 111�Q
SURROUNDING LAND USE:
SITE HISTORY:
GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION: k1.4
APPLICABLE REGULATIONS: COi;Arl 7 COSI SFCr/od 11- 2o poo a eT o2t
. FOS. C•Ei✓�A�l ��a� �M�r�Mrw
kAforms\lead-in
Water,GPA 97-01
AGENDA REPORT
TO: Honorable Chair and Planning Commission
BY: Connor Murphy, Senior Planner
DATE:
f , REQUEST: County Wide General Plan Amendment GPA 97-01; Water Commission A
f F proposal to add water management to the county general plan. The proposal consists
of county wide water management issues, goals, policies and programs. The intent is
to provide guidelines for long term water conservation and enhancement. Water
management is needed to ensure there will be ample water available, county wide,
during dry years to sustain the ecosystem, agriculture and urbanization.
RELATED
ITEMS: None
FOR: Planning Commission Meeting of
SUMMARY. The Butte County Water Commission requests that the planning commission
recommend approval of the proposal.
PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS: General plan text amendment is governed by California
Government Code, Article 6, Preparation, Adoption, and Amendment of the General Plan. A y
general plan text amendment is.clearly a legislative or quasi-legislative act (Government Code
Section 65301.5). No finding of fact is required unless the amendment "--- operates to limit the'
number of housing units which may be constructed on an annual basis --".1 A general plan text
amendment may be adopted by resolution of the board of supervisors.
ANALYSIS: The following analysis reviews the water amendment proposal as submitted by the
Butte County Water Commission.
Climate and Precipitation: California has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot dry summers
and mild wet winters. "Winter storms bring most of the annual precipitation; summer thunderstorms
are not significant." ' Precipitation is lightest on the Sacramento Valley plain and heaviest on the
western face of the Sierra Nevada-Cascade Range.3 The lower edge of the semi-permanent snowpack
usually forms at the 5,000 foot elevation.' Most of the annual runoff on tributary streams occurs
from November through May.'
The Watershed: The Sacramento River Watershed drains a large portion of northern California. The
Coast Range forms the west boundary and the Sierra Nevada-Cascade Range forms the eastern
boundary. Butte County lies entirely within the watershed. Major sub-watersheds flow through
Butte County. They include Butte Creek Watershed, Big Chico Creek Watershed, and Little Chico
Butte County Department of Development Services
• 1
Water, GPA 97-01
Creek Watershed. Important localized watersheds in the Cascade Mountains include the Paradise
Watershed and the Magalia Watershed.
Watershed Management: The Siena Nevada-Cascade uplands are an important part of the watershed,
providing water for the Sacramento Valley where water demand is greatest. Water users in the valley
are concerned that continued upland development will adversely affect the water supply. A
substantial amount of development has taken place in the foothills and mountains where public sewer
systems are not available. On the other hand, the valley itself is rapidly urbanizing, opening the
watershed to additional urban runoff and groundwater contamination.
In 1983, the'California Department of Water Resources discovered groundwater contamination in
the Chico area. "Nitrate levels exceeding the 45 milligrams per liter(mg/L) drinking water standard
have been found in domestic waters in the developing area around the city of Chico."' The source
was traced to failed and overconcentrated septic systems.' Similar problems have also been found
in the upland Paradise area.
The Groundwater Basin: A 1,100 square mile hydrologically connected groundwater Basin known
as the Butte and Sutter Basins Underlies the Sacramento Valley. The interconnected basins extend
from Chico in the north,to Sacramento Metropolitan Airport on the south. The portion of the basin
north of the Sutter Buttes is called Butte Basin. The Butte Basin is bounded on the east by the
Feather River and the West by the Sacramento River. Butte Creek, Big Chico Creek and Little
Chico Creek flow through the heart of the basin.' Locally, groundwater is recharged from the
Thermalito Afterbay and the three major creeks.'
Drought Water Bank- The California climate is also characterized by unpredictable wet and dry
weather cycles. Drought is a recurring problem. Near the end of the six year drought that persisted
through the early 1990s, "Governor Pete Wilson formed a Drought Water Bank to respond to the
water supply 6risis".10
The program authorized the California Department of Water Resources to purchase water from
willing sellers and sell to buyers with critical water needs." The state obtained water from three
sources: "temporary surpluses in reservoirs, surface supplies freed up by the use of groundwater, and
surface supplies freed up by fallowing farm land"."
The Drought Water Bank successfully obtained enough water to see Califoriva through the drought.
However,the state found the program had a potential to cause economic and environmental impacts
to water donor localities.
"Fallowing can have an adverse effect on local farm economies because of the
decrease in jobs, equipment purchases, and seed and fertilizer sales.
Ground water extraction can result in land subsidence or higher pumping costs for
other well owners.
Butte County Department of Development Services
2.
Water, GPA 97-01
Some proposed transfers may decrease the amount of water available for
' environmental uses.03
In addition to verifiable impacts, the state cautions that human nature may prompt some holders to
fudge. -
"Water marketing may stimulate water use that would not otherwise take place . If
people are paid to stop using water, some prospective sellers may start using as
much water as possible to establish a higher base level of use.04
Even though the drought that created it has run its course, the California Department of Water
Resources continues to operate the Drought Water Bank program.
Local Drought Water Bank Experience: Some landowners within the Butte Basin sold surface water
to the Drought Water Bank in 1991, 1992 and 1994.15 After selling their surface water, they
substituted groundwater to irrigate their crops.16 Neighboring landowners complained that increased
pumping of groundwater lowered the water table in their wells and increased their pumping costs.17
The discord led to a county wide drive to increase local groundwater management.
Groundwater Monitoring: The California Department of Water Resources has measured groundwater
levels in more than 70 Butte County wells since the 1940s.18 Well water is typically measured once
in the spring,usually during March, and once in the fall, during October.19 Measurements are timed
to obtain the highest spring water level and the lowest fall water level.20 All of the sample wells are
located on the Sacramento Valley plain.21
The California Department of Water Resources has found that"ground water levels have not changed
significantly since the 1950s".22 However, near Chico, an apparent water level decline did begin
about 1982.23
Even with over 70 test wells, the state groundwater monitoring program has coverage gaps. The
state would welcome local action that would supplement their monitoring program.24
Butte Groundwater Basin Hydrologic Model: Concerns over groundwater overdrafting prompted a
group of local water companies, water districts, irrigation districts and general governments to
execute a memorandum of understanding to form the Butte Basin Water Users Association. The 15
member association is pledged to supplement the state's Butte Basin groundwater monitoring
program; develop a groundwater management plan; develop a hydrologic groundwater model to
regulate and manage groundwater; develop a hydrologic model for enhancing groundwater recharge;
determine the need for additional and improved water extraction, storage, delivery and conservation
facilities; and participate in groundwater management.25
Butte County Department of Development Services
3
Water, GPA 97-01
Each member of the association is entitled to a .proportional vote on issues, based on their
contribution to the association.26 The County of Butte is the dominant contributor and casts a
proportional vote equal to 25 percent of the votes.27
In 1996,the association developed a hydrologic model of Butte Basin groundwater. "The model is
a mathematical representation of the hydrodynamics of the regional ground-water system. ,28
"The ground-water model can provide an effective method for evaluating impacts of
regional water use changes on the ground-water system of Butte Basin. Given
alternative future changes in water use and water supply, the model can be used to
compare the impacts of these alternatives on hydrologic conditions. Water use
changes that can be simulated include out-of-basin and'in-basin water transfers,
artificial recharge projects, increased pumping for urban expansion, and wetlands
projects. The model can also simulate the effects of long-term droughts and the
period required for ground-water levels to stabilize following increases in ground-
water development.Q9
Groundwater Mana ement: Under California law, overlying property rights allow a landowner to
build a well and extract groundwater. The law also lists 22 types of local government that have
statutory authority to manage water. Additionally, a city or county can adopt a groundwater
management ordinance under its power to protect the health, safety, and general welfare.
In November 1996, Butte County voters approved Measure G, An Ordinance to Protect
Groundwater Resources in Butte County. The ordinance is intended to prevent groundwater_
overdrafting. The ordinance has three major provisions:
t
1. The county shall require a permit to extract groundwater for use out of the county or
to substitute groundwater for surface water that is sold for use out of the county."
2. The county water commission shall develop a county wide groundwater monitoring
program. Groundwater is to be measured four times a year.31
3. The Butte Basin Water Users Association shall report on the amount of groundwater
pumping that can occur during the water year within each county sub-basin without
exceeding the safe yield."
'Groundwater Management Plans: The California Water Code authorizes local agencies to develop
groundwater management plans. The code also lists the topics that may be addressed in a
groundwater management plan.33
1. Saline water intrusion control.
2. Wellhead protection areas and recharge areas identification and management .
Butte County Department of Development Services
4
Water, GPA 97-01
3. Contaminated groundwater migration regulation.
4. Well abandonment and destruction program administration.
5. Overdraft mitigation conditions.
6. Groundwater replenishment by water extractors.
7. Groundwater level and storage monitoring.
8. Conjunctive use operations facilitation.
9. Well construction policy identification.
10. Groundwater contamination cleanup, recharge, storage, conservation, water
recycling, and extraction projects to be constructed and operated by the local agency,
11. Federal and state regulatory agency relationship development.
.12. Land use plan review and coordination with land use planning agencies to assess
activities that create a reasonable risk of groundwater contamination.
Local Management Options: The California Water Code allows local groundwater management
options. Groundwater management plans may be enacted by the following public agencies. r
1. A local public agency that provides water service to all or part of its service area.
2. A local public agency that provides flood control, groundwater management or
groundwater replenishment.
In Butte County, any water providing public agency could develop its own groundwater management
plan, or a group of public agencies could develop a join plan.
Alternatively, the County of Butte could form a county wide water service agency,34 flood control
district35 or water replenishment district." The county could also form one or more community
service districts.
The form Butte County groundwater management'will take has not been resolved. The water
commission suggests the Butte Basin Water Users Association as one group that could take the lead
in initiating a public process for developing a county wide groundwater management plan.37
Evaluating the Body of the Text: Both federal and state governments have laws requiring the use of
plain English in administrative regulations. The California Code affirms that"---the complexity and
Butte County Department of Development Services
• 5
Water, GPA 97-01
lack of clarity in many regulations put small businesses, which do not have the resources to hire
experts to assist them, at a distinct disadvantage".38 The law goes on to say that: "Plain English
means language that can be interpreted by a person who has no more than an eighth grade level of
proficiency in English"." The law concludes with the directive that administrative regulations that
apply to quasi-legislative actions must be written"--- so that the meanings of the regulations will be
easily understood by those persons directly affected by them".40
Although the state plain English legislation does not bind local government to write clearly, it is good
practice to do so. The text of the proposed water amendment should be judged for clarity and
readability. The general plan is a public document that must be used by a wide spectrum of the
public at large. It should cater to those who must rely on the general plan for decision making
information and procedural instructions: public boards and commissions, real estate investors and
developers, relocation and site selection professionals, consumer market analysts, relocation
specialists, utility service providers, and public agency permit processing staff.
Evaluating Goals, Policies and Programs: The water commission proposes the county adopt four
goals, 29 policies and 22 programs to implement the general plan water amendment. The planning
commission should carefully evaluate all of the goals, policies and programs.
Goal is defined as"the end toward which effort is directed."" Goals should be evaluated in relation
to the definition.
Policy is defined as"a definite course or method of action selected from among alternatives and in
light of given conditions to guide and determine present and future decisions".42 Policies should be
evaluated in relation to the definition.
Program is defined as "a plan or system under which action may be taken towards a goal."a3
Programs should be evaluated in relation to their effectiveness in implementing policy. It is also
useful to evaluate programs in terms of how well they address the following concerns:
1. Administration: What agency will administer the program.
2. Fundine: How much will the program cost and what will be the funding source. .
3. Timing: When will the program start and end.
4. Quantified Objective: How will program success or failure be measured.
Water Management Related Policies and Programs: For the most part, the policies and programs are
directly aimed at water management issues.. For the purposes of analysis, it may be helpful to rely on
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The CEQA Guidelines list classes of
actions that the Secretary for Resources has found to cause no harm to the environment.
Butte County Department of Development Services
6
• Water, GPA 97-01
"'Categorical exemption' means an exemption from CEQA for a class of projects
based on a finding by the Secretary for Resources that the class of projects does not.
have a significant effect on the environment."44
All but two of the proposed water amendment policies and programs seem to fall into three
categorical exemption classes.
Class 6: Information collection: "Class 6 consists of basic data collection, research,
experimental management, and resource evaluation activities which do not result in
a serious or major disturbance to an environmental resource. These may be strictly
for information gathering purposes, or as part of a study leading to an action which
a public agency has not yet approved, adopted, or funded."45
Class 7: Actions by regulatory agencies for protection of natural resources: 'Class 7
consists of actions taken by regulatory agencies as authorized by state law or local
ordinance to assure the maintenance, restoration, or enhancement of a natural
resource where the regulatory process involves procedures for the protection of the
environment. Examples include but are not limited to wildlife preservation activities
of the Department of Fish and Game. Construction activities are not includes in this
exemption."46
Class 8: Actions by regulatory agencies for protection of the environment: "Class 8
consists of actions taken by regulatory agencies as authorized by state law or local
ordinance to assure the maintenance, restoration, enhancement, or protection of the
environment where the regulatory process involves procedures for protection of the
environment. Construction activities and relaxation of standards allowing
environmental degradation are not included in this exemption.i47
Because the policies and programs are geared to information collection, natural resources protection
and environmental protection analysis concluded that, as a group, they would be beneficial to the
public.
Policies and Programs Having Land Use Element Aspects: One policy has the potential to directly
effect the Butte County General Plan Land Use Element4'. The policy could lead to significant
changes residential population density and land use intensity in locations designated low density
residential, medium density residential and high density residential(i.e.: urban density residential).
Goal 2: Water Quality, Policy 2.6: "Direct urban density residential projects to urban
areas where approved community water systems and other necessary facilities are
available, or ensure that when such projects are located in the outlying areas of the
County, that approved community water systems, sewage treatment facilities and
storm drainage will be provided by the developer."
The proposal can be broken into three parts for analysis:
5. Under existing urban densAy residential land use categories, new development has the
option of using private wells or a community water systems.
Butte County Department of Development Services
7
Water, GPA 97-01
6. The term"other necessary facilities are available", lacks a definitive explanation. It
would be most difficult for staff to apply the policy to a proposed project.
7. The requirement to"ensure that when such projects are located in the outlying areas
of the County, that approved community water systems, sewage treatment facilities
and storm drainage will be provided by the developer". This is a major departure
from the existing general plan land use element wording. Under existing water supply
wording, the applicant need only meet the lower standard of "adequate water
r . supply". Similarly, the sewage disposal requirement is limited to "sewers available or
natural conditions suitable for septic tanks". Drainage requirements for low, medium
and high density residential designation is mentioned under Zoning Factor, 6:
Existing utilities, walkways and drainage facilities.
To be completed based on results of initial study.
The maps attached as Exhibit `B": Urban Density Residential Maps, show land' outside of
incorporated cities that qualifies as urban density residential land. The number of vacant lots and
divisible large parcels cannot be determined by the county geographic information system.
Excerpts from the General Plan Land Use Element
LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
Primary Uses: Detached single-family dwellings at urban densities.
Secondary Uses: Agricultural uses, animal husbandry, home occupations, outdoor recreation
facilities, utilities, public and quasi-public uses, group quarters and care homes.
Site Designation Criteria:
1. Needed for urban residential development within 20 years.
2. Adequate water supply.
3. Sewers available or natural conditions suitable for septic tanks.
4. Adjacent or near to existing utilities, roads and single-family residential
• development.
5. Good accessibility to commercial services, schools, fire protection and other
community facilities.
Intensity of Use: Zoning allows net parcel sizes of one acre to 6,500 square feet. One single-
family dwelling per parcel with other residential uses limited to a maximum density of 6 dwelling
Butte County Department of Development Services
8
• Water, GPA 97-01
units per gross acre. * Home occupations, farm animals, other uses and setbacks regulated to -
maintain single-family residential character.
Consistent Zones: R-1, R-1 A &C, RT-1, RT-1A, ASR, M-R, S-R, SR-5, SR-1, TM-1, R-MH,
PA-C.
Zoning Factors:.
L
1. Existing parcel sizes and residential densities.
2. Availability of sewers or suitability for septic tanks.
3. Effects on adjacent uses, water quality, air quality, noise, traffic flow and safety,
and general environmental quality.
4. Proximity to major streets, commercial services and all public facilities.
5. Distance from airports, railroads and industrial uses.
6. . Existing utilities, walkways and drainage facilities.
7. Local desires.
* Developments with densities in excess of 4 dwelling units per gross acre utilizing
septic waste disposal systems must meet Health Department requirements and
be clustered (PA-C) or be provided with sewer service.
MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
Primary Uses: A mixture of urban residential uses, including, detached single-family homes,
condominiums, multiple-dwelling structures, mobile home parks, group quarters and care homes.
Secondary Uses: Home occupations, professional and business offices, outdoor recreation
facilities, utilities, public and quasi-public uses.
Site Designation Criteria:
1. Needed for urban residential development within 20 years.
2. Adequate water supply.
3. Sewers available or natural conditions well suited to septic tanks.
4. Adjacent or near existing utilities and urban development.
5. Excellent accessibility to commercial services, schools, fire protection and other .
community facilities.
Intensity of Use: Zoning allows net parcel size of 6,500 square feet. Maximum density of 13
dwelling units per gross acre with group quarters and care homes limited to similar densities.
Home occupations, commercial uses, other uses and setbacks regulated to
maintain residential character.
Consistent Zones: R-1, R-1 A & C, RT-1, ASR, S-R, SR-5, R-MH, A-R, R-2, R-3, R-4, AR-MH,
M H P, PA-C.
Zoning Factors:
Butte County Department of Development Services
9
• Water, GPA 97-01
a ,
1. Existing parcel sizes and residential densities.
2. Method and capability of sewage disposal.
3. Effects on adjacent uses, water quality, air quality, noise, traffic flow and safety,
and general environmental quality.
4. Proximity to major streets, commercial services and all public facilities.
5. Distance from airports, railroads and industrial uses.
6. Existing utilities, walkways and drainage facilities.
7. Local desires.
* For areas dependent upon septic tank waste disposal, soil conditions and the
effluent volume based on the number of bedrooms will determine the actual
number of units per acre not to exceed 13 dwelling units per gross acre in any
case.
HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
Primary Uses: Higher-density urban residential uses, including condominiums, multiple-dwelling
structures, mobile home parks, group quarters and care homes.
Secondary Uses: Home occupations, professional and business offices, outdoor recreation
facilities, utilities, public and quasi-public uses.
Site Designation Criteria:
1. Needed for higher-density urban residential development within 20 years.
2. Within service areas of community water systems.
3. Sewers available or natural conditions well suited to septic tanks.
4. Adjacent or near existing utilities and urban development.
5. Excellent accessibility to commercial services, schools, fire protection and other
community facilities.
Intensity of Use: Zoning allows parcel sizes of 6,500 square feet. Maximum density of 20
dwelling units per gross acre with group quarters and care homes limited to similar densities.
Home occupations, commercial uses, other uses and setbacks regulated to maintain residential
character.*
Consistent Zones: A-R, AR-MH, R-2, R-3, R-4, MH-P, PA-C.
Zoning Factors:
1. Existing parcel sizes and residential densities.
2. Method and capability of sewage disposal.
3. Effects on adjacent uses, water quality, air quality, noise, traffic flow and safety,
and general environmental quality.
4. Proximity to major streets, commercial services and public facilities.
5. Distance from airports, railroads and industrial uses.
6. Existing utilities, walkways and drainage facilities.
Butte County Department of Development Services.
10
Water, GPA 97-01
7. Local desires.
For areas dependent upon septic tank waste disposal, soil conditions and the
effluent volume based on the number of bedroom will determine the actual
number of units per acre not to exceed 20 dwellings per gross acre in any case.
Policies and Programs Having,Circulation Element Aspects:
One program has the potential to effect the Butte County General Plan Circulation Element49 and
the Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG)Metropolitan Transportation Planso
Goal 3: Watershed Mana ement, Pro rg am 3.4: "Evaluate existing heavily used
unpaved public access roads in the mountain areas that experience significant soils
erosion. Harden the surfaces near recreational areas adjoining streams and water
bodies in the County in order to minimize soil erosion and stream sedimentation."
Neither the Butte County General Plan Circulation Element or the Butte County Association of
Governments(BCAG)Metropolitan Transportation Plan, address the topic.
The proposed program raises three questions: What agency will administer the program? How
much will the program cost? What will be the funding source?
The wording of the proposed program could be considered speculative and vague. County staff
would find it confounding to apply meaning to phrases such as: "heavily used", "experience
significant soils erosion", and "near recreational areas'. To implement directives, county staff
needs unambiguous instructions.
ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION: The application is defined as a project under the
California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) and as such, is subject to the requirements of CEQA.
"`Project' means the whole of an action, which has the potential for resulting in a physical change
in the environment, directly or ultimately,-and that is any of the following: (1) An activity directly
undertaken by any public agency including but not limited to --- adoption and amendment of local
General Plans or elements thereof pursuant to Government Code Sections 65100-65700.""
An Initial Study has been prepared by staff. Based on the Initial Study, staff recommends a
Negative Declaration be filed.
PUBLIC NOTICE AND COMMENTS: Public notice must be published as a 1/8 page display ad
in a newspaper of county wide general circulation."
RECOMMENDATION: The Butte County Water Commission requests the planning commission
recommend approval of the proposal by the county supervisors. The proposal contains the final draft
Butte County Department of Development Services
11
Water GPA 97-01
water language recommended by the water commission at its meeting of October 1, 1996. The
proposal is supported by the Butte Basin Water Users Association.53
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit "A": FINDINGS AND ACTION
Exhibit `B": URBAN DENSITY RESIDENTIAL MAPS
K:\projects\gpa\water-O 1\staff.rpt
Butte County Department of Development Services
12
Water,GPA 97-01
EXHIBIT "A"
FINDINGS AND ACTION
Section 1: Environmental Findings
A. An Initial Study was completed in compliance with the California Environmental
Quality Act. No significant environmental effects were found.
B. The Butte County Planning Commission independently reviewed and considered the
proposed Negative Declaration prior to making A decision on the project. The
Negative Declaration reflects the independent judgement of the Butte County
Planning Commission.
Section 2: Planning Commission Action
A. Subject to the findings indicated in Section 1, move to adopt the Initial Study and file
a Negative Declaration.
B. Subject to the findings indicated in Section 1, move to file a de minimis exemption to
the collection of Department of Fish and Game Environmental Filing Fees.
Butte County Department of Development Services
13
Water, GPA 97-01
1. Longtin, James. California Land Use Law, Volume I. Local Government Publications.
Malibu Ca. 1987. Page 198.
2. Design memorandum No. 1, Sacramento River and Major and Minor Tributaries,
California. Hydrology, January 23, 1957. Sacramento District Corps of Engineers, US
Army, Sacramento, Ca.
3. Page 8.
4. Ibid. Page 9.
5. Ibid. Page 10.
6. Clausen, Robert F. And Jack R. McMillan. Study of Nitrates in the Groundwater of the
Chico Area, Butte County. January 1984. Pagel.
•7. Clausen, Robert F. And Jack R. McMillan. Study of Nitrates in the Groundwater of the
Chico Area, Butte County. January 1984. Page 57.
8. Butte and Sutter Basins Water Data Atlas. Department of Water Resources, Northern
District. February 1994. Page 1.
9. Ibid. Page 9.
i •
10. Water Facts, Number 11. State of California, The Resources Agency, Department of
Water resources. March 1996. Page 2.
11. Ibid. Page 2.
12. Ibid Page 2.
13. Ibid. Page 2.
14. Ibid. Page 2.
15. County of Butte, Water Commission, Proposed Water Amendment to the Conservation
Element. Page CON-1.
16. Ibid. Page CON-1.
17. Ibid. Page CON-1.
18. Sacramento Valley Basin Ground Water Levels, Butte County. Department of Water
resources,Northern District, February 1993. Page 1.
z
Butte County Department of Development Services
14 ,
• • Water, GPA 97-01
19." Ibid. Page 3.
20. Ibid. Page 3.
21. Ibid. Page 9.
22. Ibid. Page 9.
23. Ibid. Page 9.
24. Telephone interview, Glenn Pierson, Department of Water Resources, January 30, 1997.
25. Butte County Council. First Modification of the Memorandum of Understanding
Providing for the Formation and Operation of the Butte Basin Water Users Association.
Page 4.
26. Butte County Council. First Modification of the Memorandum of Understanding
Providing for the Formation and Operation of the Butte Basin Water Users Association.
Page 10.
27. Ibid. Page 17.
28. Hydrologic Consultants, Inc., 1996,Development of a Ground-Water Model Butte Basin
` Area California. Butte Basin Water Users Association. Durham, Ca. Page 4.
29. Ibid. Page 3.
30. - Measure G: An Ordinance to Protect Groundwater Resources in Butte County.
Page 1.
31. Ibid. Page 3.
32. Ibid. Page 3.
33. State of California, Water Code, Section 10753.7
34. State of California. Government Code, Section 25690 et seq.
35. State of California. Water Code, Section 60000 et seq.
36. Water Code. Section 10758(b). State of California.
37. County of Butte, Water Commission,Proposed Water Amendment to the Conservation
Element. Coordination of Public and Private Activities, Program 4.2. Page CON-11.
Butte County Department of Development Services
15
Water, GPA 97-01
38: California Government Code. Section 11340(g)
39. Ibid. Section 11342(e)
40.- Ibid. Section 11349.1(a) and Section 11349(c)(3)
41. Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary. G& C Merriam Company. Springfield, Mass.
1979.
42. Ibid.
43. Ibid.
44. ' Section 15353 of the CEQA Guidelines. Page 150.
45. Section 15306 of the CEQA Guidelines. Page 143
46. Ibid.
47. Ibid.
.48. Butte County General Plan Land Use Element. 1979. County of Butte, Planning
Department. Oroville, Ca.
49. Butte County General Plan Circulation Element. 1984. County of Butte, Planning
- Department. Oroville, Ca.
50. Draft Metropolitan Transportation Plan, 1997, Butte County Association of
Governments. The final plan is scheduled for adoption in March 1997, prior to the public
hearing on this application.
51. CEQA Guidelines. Section 15378(a). Page 158
52. Government Code Section 65091
53. Proposed language for inclusion in the Conservation Element. Page CON-1.
Butte County Department of Development Services ~
16
i
T •
GPA
1
APPLICATION
t
DEPARTT OF DEVELOPMIQT SERVICES
BUT COUNTY UNIFORM APPMCATION
APPLICANT: Agent information to be provided is on other side:
APPLICANT'S NAME( If applicant is different from owner an affidavit is required ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER:
J)EVELOpA9fA0 i XF2VICFS [DEP-4QTMICA)i
ADDRESS: CITY.STATE&ZIP CODE: FILE NUMBER: (FOR OFFICE USE)
7 Cod,j'N CfA) rf P- OP-o vi OF coq9S'9 6S CPA O
NAME OF PROPOSED PROJECT(If any ) ' . TELEPHONE
GvgTf e- 4AJEN'bMf1JT To C04AJeJ7,0CA)E0,4( PJAA (0116
LOCATION OF PROJECT(Major cross streets.and Address. if any)
OVAJ-7-4 ,,w I D F
GENERAL INFORMATION REQUIRED, ,
OWNER'S NAME TELEPHONE
COdNT y Of /13o i TF ( ) /*14
ADDRESS: N/A CITY.STATE&ZIP CODE:
ZONE GENERAL PLAN EXISTING LAND USE SITE SIZE(in Square Feet or Acres)
EXISTING STRUCI'ILT ES(in Square Feet) PROPOSED STRUC 17RES(in Square Feet)
A14 IJ14
(Check One) (Check One)
❑ PROPERTY IS OR PROPOSED TO BE SEWERED ❑ PROPERTY IS OR PROPOSED TO BE ON PUBLIC WATER
❑ PROPERTY IS OR PROPOSED TO BE ON SEPTIC ❑ PROPERTY IS OR PROPOSED TO BE ON WELL WATER
APPLICATION REQUESTED
16 GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT ❑ TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP
❑ REZONE ❑ TENTATIVE SUBDIVISION MAP
❑ USE PERJvI1T ❑ WAIVER OF PARCEL MAP
❑ MINOR USE PERMIT ❑ BOUNDARY LINE MODIFICATION
❑ VARIANCE ❑ LEGAL LOT DEIEPNIINATION
❑ MINOR VARIANCE ❑ CERTIFICATE OF MERGER
❑ ADMINISTRATIVE PERMIT ❑ MINING AND RECLAMATION PLAN
❑ DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT ❑ OTHER
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
FULL DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED PROJECT(Attach necessary sheets. If this application is for a land division.describe the number and
size of parcels)
A 90-0 POSA( To Q ZI 4#4rEA 1*4A 044ifA$47' ?v TSS C(20^07'11
65NOC24L 40114d . "r4f ?2*P0d'41 cowsf mr of eov4n uw.,zF
1"A,-J4CFA16Nr 1Sf0FJ GOa(S PeLICI Fr A-J3 90eo G0—gMS. 7-4 6f
/N TEN7 /J 7-0 i),2 o v i a; G i a F t FS Au 2 l vV(i.T FeM GvJe OL
CoaSs/LvoT�oa 4�a fN �4�Ic6MENT',
OWNER CERTIFICATION
I CERTIFY THAT I Ay PRESENTLY THE LEGAL t)WNER OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PROPERTY.FURTIIER.I ACKNOWLEDGE TIM FILING OF
THIS APPLICATION.4ND CERTIFY THAT ALL OF THE ABOVE LNT=ORMATION IS TRUE AND ACCURATE.
(If an agent is to be authorized.execute an affidavit of authorization and include the affidavit with this applica )
DATE: 'DC-c- 18 , i GW SIGNATURE: �
AGENT AUTHORIZATION FORM
To Butte County, Department of Development Services;•
Phone # ('
Print Agent Name and Phone Number
Mailing Address r t , ' , t • t+
r
is hereby authorized to process this application for V649 D pr XUAC1VIX04J, 4Vr40&JZF,P
if►i v i E iNa�70 A) G64
�TEit+t �tl. 06 . ,SEG /7 /RS6 , t FF /f 6v4 VEE Cal 7411 00011 CaTio
This authorization allows representation for all applications, hearings,`appeals, etc. and to sign all documents
necessary for said processing, but not including document(s) relating to record title interest.
Owner(s) of Record: (Sign and Print Name)
Print Name Print Name
Signature Signature
Architect and/or Engineer:
Print ArchitectIngineer None and Phone Number
Mailing Address
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
Verify:
Date received: a / / 6 Total amount received: ISA V 6J &v 3. o. s,
AP Number(s) Legal Description
Owners Authorization Zoning requirements
Project Description t t ' Copies of plot,plan ,
Taken by •S L Receipt No. E.H., LD Plan CDF
Payment of the currently required Application Fee and/or Deposit (Any unused portion of a deposit) will be returned
upon final action. ' r
Current fee for this application is S as of
Make check payable to `Butte County Treasurer".
4.06 * Butte County Water Commission - the Water Commission : has
modified its recommendation concerning draft water language for
inclusion in the General Plan Update - action requested - DIRECT
THE DIRECTOR-DEVELOPMENT SERVICES TO INITIATE A
GENERAL PLAN TEXT AMENDMENT TO INCORPORATE
THE WATER COMMISSION'S LANGUAGE INTO THE
CURRENT GENERAL PLAN. (BUTTE COUNTY WATER
- COMNUSSION)
Page 111 W
• COUNTY OF BUTTE•
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION FORM
(To be Completed By Project Applicant)
Date Filed Ic
General Information:
1. Name and address of owner, and/or developer, and/or project sponsor: ac Vf10PAJL"V'i
SF2 v/ t�S
2. Address of project: Cowry wsz f
Assessor's Parcel Number: NIS!
3. Name, address, and telephone number of person to be contacted concerning this project:
4. Ust and describe any other related permits and other public approvals required for this project, including
those required by city, regional,state and federal agencies: VO4e
5. Existing general plan designation: W14
6. Existing zoning district: NSD
7. How is land currently used? AM
8. Proposed use of site (Project for which this form is filed): G A'rick Coy)XZ4-✓0"-10
.4A* 60#4,d c /n E v I-,
Project Description:
9. Site size: N14 (Acres/Sq. Feet)
10. Off-street parking spaces: Full size: N�4 Compact: N14 Total: d
11. Plans attached Yes_ No
12. Proposed development schedule
13. Associated projects 4
14. Anticipated incremental or phased development Q
Attach description of project containing the following information:
15. If residential, include the number of units,schedule of unit sizes, range of sale prices or rents, and type of
household size expected.
16. If commercial, indicate the type,whether neighborhood,city or regionally oriented,square footage of sales
area and loading facilities.
17. If industrial,indicate type, estimated employment per shift, and loading facilities.
18. If institutional, indicate the major function,estimated employment per shift, estimated occupancy, loading
facilities, and community benefits to be derived from the project.
0 Butte County Department of Development Services 0 Planning Division 0
1
19. If the,project involves a vanance, conditonal use rezoning appin or any development permits, state .
this and indicate clearly why.the application is required. If permits have already been issued, please attach
as Exhibit
Are the following items applicable to the project or its effects? Discuss below all items
checked yes (attach additional sheets as necessary).
YES NO
20. Change in existing features of any hills, buttes, canyons
or substantial alteration of ground contours. _
21. Change in scenic views or vistas from existing residential
areas or public lands or roads. _ �C
22. Change in pattern or character of general area of project _
23. Significant amounts of solid waste or litter. _ X
24. Change in dust, ash, smoke,fumes or odors in vicinity. _ X
25. Change in bay, lake, river,stream or ground water quality "
or quantity, or alteration of existing drainage patterns. �(
.26. Substantial change in existing noise or vibration levels
in the vicinity. _
27. Site on filled land or on slopes of 10 percent or more.
28. Use of, or disposal of potentially hazardous materials, X '
such as toxic substances, flammable or explosives.
29. Substantial change in demand for municipal services
(police, fire,water, sewage, etc, including special.districts).
30. Substantially increase fossil fuel consumption
(electricity, oil, natural gas, etc.). _
31. Relationship to a larger project or series of projects. _
2�^ /ivi/l !mP/lov� GVoTc'1. QvAf I T 7 SND Q(14JT�T y /�
GC/U ? 1 C1 /
21. /Ntl� Pgowoc /M*41 94,4rg t. Foie. 41/ W S . (HOW Qw Ogle ceea MoiG
0
i/avVAP 4/0E A F"s I ✓d 4/t =urvLE l7 SvC.IoAmE�•
0 Butte County Department of Development Services 0 Planning Division 0
Planning Division .
2 DEC 18 9996
OrOvilla, Calitomia
Environmental Setting: (Attach brief description)
32. Describe the project site as it exists before the project, including.information on topography, soil stability,
plants and animals, and any cultural, historical, or scenic.aspects. Describe any existing structures on the
site and the use of the structures. Attach photographs of the site. Snapshots or Polaroid photos will be
accepted.
33. Describe the surrounding properties,including information on plants and animals and any cultural,
historical, or scenic aspects. Indicate the type of land use.(residential, commercial,etc.), intensity of land
use (one-family, apartment houses,shops,department stores, etc.), and scale of development(height,
frontage,set-back, rear yard, etc.). Attach photographs of the vicinity. Snapshots or Polaroid photos will be
accepted.
Certification
I hereby certify that the statements furnished above and in the attached exhibits present the data and information
required for this initial evaluation to the best of my ability, and that the facts, statements, and information presented
are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
Date Sign a for
OEWFJOAMEwT S�2y�G�S
r
K:\FORMS\SUBMITTAL\ENV-INFO
0 Butte County Department of Development.Services 0 Planning Division 0
L .
T >.
i ;,Water commission to discuss selling Butte
water - short term or one permanent sale
By Nick Ellena struction of.Oroville Dam began as much of the entitlement the county
SPECIAL TO THE MERCURY-REGISTER the keystone of the California may want to retain.
" " Water Project: Masuda said this should be con-
"PARADISE — Butte County's Local demands for the water sidered within the context of a
water entitlement from Lake have been slow in developing. The total county water plan.
'Oroville is a revenue source wait- county currently is selling only "The remainder can be viewed
lingto happen but the issue is what 1,200 acre-feet a year to California as surplus," he said. "It possibly
'cop:rge of action to choose that's in Water Service Company and the can bring in $1,000 per acre feet.
the county's best.interest. Del Oro Water Company. For 10,000 acre-feet that would
-Jill The new Butte County Water The high cost of delivery struc- mean $10 million that the county
"Commission is tackling that one tures needed to get the water out of can probably use for something."
with the hope of reaching a recom- the reservoir has discouraged He said it would be a one time
mendation for the Board. of potential purchasers. revenue and that' the entitlement
*Supervisors within the next month The original entitlement would be lost forever by the coun-
*or4wo. . required the county to pay for the ty.
,``" major decision will be water whether it used it or not. "We need to determine what our
Awhether to try to sell the water to ` However, the Board of future needs are and if we could
out–of county buyers on a short Supervisors and Minasian success sell the water on a permanent
Term basis, or reap millions of dol- fully campaigned for a waiver from basis," he said.
lars for a permanent one time sale. the Department of Water Resources •Try to arrange a hybrid perma-
Or'both. of payments for the unused water nent transfer of a part of the entitle-
,Roger Masuda of Turlock, the that could have cost .the county ment whereby the buyer need take
4county's special water counsel, some$800,000 a year. the water only in drier years while
said"if the. Board of Supervisors The waiver runs through 2000. the county tries to market the water
.jchooses to sell part of its ,entitle-` But it has been made moot by the in wetter years. .
,meet,-a price of $1,000 per acre Monterey Agreement of. 1996 "Sale-in the short term is attrac-
�feet may not be out of line. between the state and water con- 64 while we study future needs
That would workout to$10 mil- tractors that was approved by the-.and determine future needs," Bird
: it o for a sale of 10,000 acre-feet, Butte County supervisors on Aug. said. "If we,can be sure we won't
:Masuda said. . 13. need it, why don't we sell part of
But he warned that the water The agreement relieves the the allocation?"
then would be lost to the county county of the obligation to pay for Priscilla Hanford of Paradise,
�forever. the unused water. ' the commission's vice chair, said a
• A preliminary report with four That gives the Board of full report on options and on poten-
,options on what to do with 'the Supervisors breathing room to tial buyers is needed for the benefit
'27,500 acre feet of water a year determine how to deal with the of the commission and the public.
that the county can call upon from entitlement, which is valid until "Certainly we are not in a posi-
Lake Oroville, was submitted to 2035, to the county's best advan- tion to make any.recommendation
ithe panel at its meeting Thursday in tage. to the board at this point,"she said
:the Paradise Irrigation District The options posed to the com- Commissioner Mark Kimme-
off ce. mission were: lshue of Durham, concurred and
,Commissioner David Bird,' •Continue to take water just for voiced a warning.
:manager of the Thermalito in-county needs plus try to market "We're only looking at possible
bisikation District, had proposed more water inside the county. • uses on what to do with 27,500
the commission make a concerted The consensus was that this acre-feet,"he said.
neffort to see how the water that the loses the county an opportunity of ' "We don't want anyone to go
"county has not been able to utilize realizing more revenue from the out of this room thinking the water
ifor decades, can be converted into entitlement,and that efforts to mar- commission is going to recom-
,,revenue. ket the water should be expanded. mend selling it. It''s just a concept
Masuda, Bird and Butte County Try to arrange a temporary At this point."
pCounsel' Susan Minasian pre- transfer,such as for five years,of a To move the concept along, the
,tviewed four options that,Bird said, portion of the entitlement. commissioners agreed to Hanford's
will be developed into a more Masuda said "a lot of buyers" suggestion to set up a joint sub-
adetailed report, possibly for the outside the county who could get committee of the commission and
:next meeting on July 2. the extra water delivered through its Technical Advisory Committee
"We began an initial investiga- the State Water Project's delivery to analyze the possibilities and
tion on the options available for system, could be found in dry report on July 2.
putting the county's entitlement to years. Hanford and Bird will represent
xwork;" Bird said. The problem is in.finding buyers the commission on the subcommit'
p _-4Y
a - We put together a little report. in normal.or wetter years, he said. tee.
cVl�e;kttow what the pieces are. But Different sets of buyers might be a 'The Technical Advisory
twe haven't learned how to put possibility. Committee members appointed
them together yet." • Consider a permanent transfer were Mike McEnespy of Chico,
ticip4ting a developing need, of water: Dr. Gerald Behnke of Chico and
fVA
er,Lake Oroville water, the Board The big question here, is to Glenn Pearson, groundwater spe-
ofx,,Supervisors reserved 27,500 reevaluate projections of future cialist for the Department of Water
,`' cre`feet a year in 1963 when con- local needs and to decide how Resources. r
tI
F/It-C P
In Butte Basin
yroposed , study
would chart water needs'
By Nick Ellena because they want the water." water transfer ordinance while implementation
SPECIAL To THE MERCURY-REGISTER Masuda said there are multiple factors that proceeds of Measure G, passed last November
need to be drawn together in a study in order to to control the sale of groundwater outside the
PARADISE — The Butte County Water reach a clear conclusion as to how much water, county.
Commission is mulling over a proposal to ask can be made available to the various interests Meanwhile a' Department of ; Water
the California Department of Water Resources without damaging the locat'resource. Resources plan to' purchase water from Lake
to finance a comprehensive water study of A detiriitive study would have to cover such Oroville from districts that have surface water
Butte Basin. factors as needs, recharge capability of the rights and for which they 0,an substitute
The idea of state financing was posed to the groundwater,flood control,'storage,and the so-. groundwater, is proceeding, to the 'consterna-
commission Wednesday by Roger Masuda of called "Denton's ditch" to carry water from tion of groundwater users who do not have an
Turlock, a consulting water attorney for Butte Lake Oroville along the foothills to the Chico. alternate surface source.
County, who estimated the cost of the study at area. Also there is mounting pressure for more
$750,000. ' At the present time, groundwater manage- water in the Ca1Fed process to restore the fish-
Masuda said Butte County is becoming the ment planning-is proceeding on a fragmented ery in the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento Delta
focal point of water issues because of its basis. (Bay-Delta)that hinges to a great degree on the
resources and that a determination of their. Local water districts are or have prepared availability of water from Butte and other
extent would benefit all of the many parties at their local plans under authority of state law. northern counties.
interest that are involved. The Butte Basin Water Users Association Over all hangs,the question as to how far the
"We're looking at an integrated water plan which includes water districts, is considering state will go in deferring water management
for the county," Masuda said. "The problem preparation of an umbrella management plan in authority to local plans.
has always been money. Now we're getting to which the districts can participate. Masuda said there are many issues and that
the point where people are willing to look at it The Board of Supervisors has.'shelved a See Water study on Page 11A
'Water -stud
Continued from Page 1A cooperating and exchanging data proposals start rolling in.
''' ^v' and there are indications, Masuda Commissioner Lance Tennis of
tai,uhified approach is needed, to said,that the state would be willing Forest Ranch, said help is needed
determine needs and the limits of to finance the master study. to finance the study and suggested
'tht water resource. "The people of this' area are that the Department of Water
-,,,;,We're not going to hold these extremely concerned," Mark Resources and CalFed officials
people off," Don Heffren, chair- Kimmelshue of Durham,a member should be invited to cooperate.
man of the Butte Basin Water of the WaterCommission said. He This would help dispel •any per-
I:Isefs Association,said. "We might represents groundwater users who ception of hostility.
-as well get something out of it." do not have surface water rights "We need help and we would
The association has commis- from Lake Oroville. want them to come in and give us
'sioned a groundwater model for "If something like this is done, counsel and give us funding to do
?Butte Basin intended to determine all the•stake holders should. have the water plan,"he said.
,how,much can safely be sold. ' input to alleviate fears that they are Commissioners agreed to
..,.,.Its success depends largely on being done behind closed doors," Tennis' suggestion to recommend
-its--,accuracy and on monitoring, he said. the Board of Supervisors pass a
=some of which also is being done Masuda said the comprehensive resolution requesting the funding
:_by."the state Department of Water study needs to be done before pres- for the comprehensive study.
Resources. sures for water get to the point "Water transfers are contingent
-�,wThe two agencies have been where specific purchase or sales on what we learn," he said.
Gounfq
I. .............
. ........................ ............................................ ..........
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom Parilo, Director of Development Services
FROM: Connor Murphy, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: Memo Approval
DATE: February 3, 1997
Attached for your review, is a memo addressed to Sean Farrell
V / 70
/4 C , c tI _J
Z �k s ���,
i -
J:\memos\03febWc
Department of Development Services
1
....v..•...v.v. tilt
MEMORANDUM
TO: Sean Farrell, Administrative Analyst
FROM: Connor Murphy, Senior Planner
APPROVAL: Tom Parilo, Director of Development Services
SUBJECT: General plan water amendment
DATE: February 3, 1997
In processing the application to amend the water section of the general plan conservation element,
I came across many references to water management plans. The policies and programs refer to:
comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plans and to 3030 groundwater mana egLment plans.
�j Are both of these the groundwater management plans provided for in Section 10753.7 of the Water
Y1't
'Code? Your assistance in clarifying the issue would be greatly appreciated.
Surface and Groundwater Supply Goal 1, Policies
1.3 Provide a leadership and/or supporting role in establishing and implementing policies which
guide the beneficial use of water resources within Butte County overlying the Butte Basin.
In cooperation with other public and private water agencies and landowners/water users,
YV
develop a county-wide Water Management Plan and water budget to the extent feasible,
V which addresses both surface and groundwater resources, sufficient to ensure that all
current and future beneficial uses of water within the County are met to the maximum extent
possible.
P 1.� Oppose any public or private plans which adversely impact existing Butte County hydrology
V which would cause groundwater extraction exceeding the safe yield and/or create a condition
of groundwater basin overdraft until a comprehensive county-wide Water Management
Plan has been prepared and approved by Butte County, following broad public input by all
interested parties.
' 1.8 Support the preparation of coordinated 3030 Groundwater Management Plans by all eligible
water purveyors within the Butte Basin.
Surface and Groundwater Supply Goal 1, Programs
1.1 In cooperation with public and private agencies, organizations, and groups that have an
interest in water resources management in the County or surrounding areas prepare, adopt,
and implement a comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan to ensure the
long-term protection, use, and maintenance of surface and groundwater resources and the
Department of Development Services
1
natural environment dependant on water. The Plan shall include, but not be limited to the
following components and shall be reviewed and updated at least every two years:
1.2 Support preparation of 3030 groundwater management plans by all water purveyors within
the Butte Basin, and encourage overall coordination of these plans with County objectives
for management of groundwater resources within the county.
1.3 Recommend formal recognition by the California Department of Water Resources of water'
requirements for full County development in accordance with the Butte County General Plan,
comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan, and the principle of"area of origin"
rights. Secure binding agreements with the State that such water resources shall be
reserved for usage within the County as local agricultural, environmental and development
needs dictate, in accordance with "area of origin"principles. If necessary, initiate and pursue
special state legislation ensure this water reservation is formally made.
Water Quality, Goal 2, Programs
2.7 Coordinate and cooperate with all interested parties in maintaining a water well ordinance
which provides for the public health,safety and welfare of Butte County domestic, municipal
and industrial groundwater well users and suppliers. The extent of regulations set forth in
a well ordinance should be regularly evaluated to insure the safe yield and prohibit
groundwater overdraft of a portion of the Butte Basin aquifer underlying Butte County. Such
evaluation should consider adopted 3030 plans by local public and/or private water
Purveying agencies.
Coordination of Public and Private Activities, Goal 4, Policies
4.3 Following its development, encourage adoption, support suggested recommendations for
alteration and approval in a consensus building format of the comprehensive county-wide
Water Management Plan for all public and private water purveying agencies wholly or
partially located within Butte County, and utilize the plan as a primary basis for decisions
about water resources following submission, review and comment by all interested parties.
4.4 Support and assist other private and/or public water purveying agencies or entities in their
activities which are in compliance with the comprehensive county-wide Water
Management Plan and oppose activities not in compliance.
Coordination of Public and Private Activities, Goal 4, Programs
4.1 Utilize the process of developing a county-wide comprehensive Water Management Plan as
- the mechanism for building mutual support, trust and participation by all the entities
responsible for management of water resources within the County.
4.2 Designate an appropriate entity, such as Butte Basin Water Users Association combined with
other diverse county interests in water use, acquisition, transmission, conveyance,
distribution and delivery to take the lead in initiating a public process for development of a
county-wide comprehensive Water Management Plan.
4.5 Encourage education of the public about the objectives and value of,the comprehensive
county-wide Water Management Plan.
J:\memos\03f697b
Department of Development Services
2
POST OFFICE BOX 309
BUTTE BASIN WATER DURHAM, CALIFORNIA 95938
USERS ASSOCIATION (916) 899-1910
FAx(916)891-3690
January 30, 1997
County
of Butte
Development Services Department
Planning Division
25 County Center Drive .
Oroville, California 95965
Attn: Connor Murphy
Subject: r Development'of a'Ground-Water Model,'Butte Basin Area, California
Dear Mr,Miirp
by
s M M ' ' • .
Pursuant to your request, we are enclosing a copy of the above referenced report on the hydrology
of Butte Basin and the development,of the Butte Basin- Water Users Association ground-water
computer«model
Thank you for your interest and please feel free to call this office if you have any questions or need
additional information.
Sincerely,
Butte Basin Water Users Association
Wesley I Bert,
Water Kan Coordinator
enclosure
Planning Division
F E 0 0 3 1997
murphy Orovillo, California
•
1
-.vyv
::.vnvx:•..v
":•: :.�:{::},• mow::...;. � ':•....
......................................................................................s7s»y,,.:yyyyyyy:.ya..y;.`
MEMORANDUM '
TO: Sean Farrell
FROM: Connor Murphy
SUBJECT: GP Water Information
DATE: January 28, 1997
In conducting the water amendment analysis, I came across several instances where I need additional
information about the Butte Basin Water Users Association.-
1. Incorporation papers, charter or similar.
2. Membership list.
3. Hydrologic Groundwater Model.
If you have these items in hand, I can stop by to pick them up sometime today.
JAmemos\28janWa
Department of Development Services
. 1
o OT
TEROFFICE MORAND UM °
° °
° - °
° -- °
UN
TO: Connor Murphy, Associate Planner Administrative Office
Phone: 538-7631
FROM: Sean Farrell, Administrative Analyst Fax: 538-7120 .
CC: Tom Parilo, Development Services Director
SUBJECT: GP Water Information
DATE: January 28, 1997
This memo is in response to your request for information on January 28, 1997, regarding the
Butte Basin Water Users Association (BBWUA).
1) Incorporation papers, charter or similar:
Attached for your review is the following information:
• Copy of registry acknowledging BBWUA's existence.
• Board action of November 10, 1992, approving MOU providing for the formation ,
and operation of BBWUA.
Board action of February 14, 1992, approving first modification to MOU providing
for the formation and operation of BBWUA.
Note: 'County Counsel should have a copy of the original MOU. I have a copy of the first
amendment to the MOU if you need it.
2) Membership list:
Attached is a copy of BBWUA's minutes of November 13, 1996. The minutes should
reflect current membership.
3) Hydrologic Groundwater Model:
This information is available through Wes Gilbert, BBWUA's Water Plan Coordinator.
His phone number is 899-9503.
Punning Division
e JAN 2 9 1997
Oroville, Calitornia
MISCELLANEOUS COMMITTEES
1. BICYCLE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Purpose: To make recommendations to the Chico City Council on various bicycle issues.
Appointed Representative: Nora Todenhagen (1998)
2298 E. 8th Street
Chico, CA 95928 343-4993
Term: 4 years
Meeting Dates and Location: 4 times a year at an unspecified location.
Board Action:
August 9, 1994; 94-230-4 (Todenhagen)
2. BUTTE BASIN WATER ASSOCIATION
Appointed Representatives: Supervisors Houx and Dolan
Board Action:
March 28, 1995; 95-86 (Houx, Dolan)
Subcommittee to consider well spacing/well interference regulations: Supervisor McLaughlin
(MO# 95-370-4)
3. CALIFORNIA COUNCIL OF PARTNERSHIPS OF THE
COUNTY SUPERVISORS ASSOCIATION OF CALIFORNIA
This is a subcommittee of CSAC formed by the Board of Supervisors on January 29, 1991,
Minute Order 91-28
Appointed Representative: E. (Gene) J. Murray
Term:
Board Action: January 29, 1991; 91-28 (Murray)
4. CALIFORNIA RURAL HEALTH ALLIANCE GOVERNING BOARD
(Formerly SMALL COUNTY ADVISORY COMMITTEE)
Appointed representative: Jane Dolan -
Purpose and Structure: To review and recommend policies concerning the County Medical
Services Program
Term: September, 1996 (one year term)
Board Action:
August 20, 1985; 85-53
August 19, 1986; 86-465 (Botill)
August 18, 1987; 87-386 (Botill)
August 16, 1988; 88-499 (Botill)
August 1, 1989; 89-340 (Botill)
August 21, 1990; 90-349 (Botill)
August 20, 1991; 91-373 (Botill) .
August 18, 1992; 92-310-4 (Botill)
August 10, 1993; 93-289-8 (Botill)
November 23, 1993; 93-428 (Dolan)
January 11, 1994; Resolution 94-01 (Dr. Chester L. Ward, M.D., Director-Public Health and
Ms. Patricia Cragar, Director-Welfare)
January 25, 1994; 94-19 (Dolan)
May 9, 1995; 95-132C (Dolan)
November 10. 1992
92-417 MOTION: I MOVE TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA WITH THE
REMOVAL OF ITEMS 3.11, 3.19, 3.28, 3.36, 3.49
AND 3.54.
S M
VOTE: 1 Y 2 Y 3 Y 4 Y 5 Y (Unanimously Carried)
Regular Agenda
92-418 Appointments - commissions and committees.
a. Appointments to committee vacancies. (NONE)
b. Appointment of nominees where a declaration of
candidacy form has not been filed for the
November 3, 1992 Consolidated General Election -
action requested - MAKE APPOINTMENTS TO RICHVALE
RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT, AND MAGALIA COUNTY
WATER DISTRICT. (NONE) (REFER TO MINUTE ORDER 92-
424)
92-419 Presentation to Hugh Wells, Durham, of a resolution
bestowing an outstanding citizenship award. (63)
(PRESENTATION TO HUGH WELLS BY SUPERVISOR McLAUGHLIN OF
A PLAQUE AND RESOLUTION)
( 92-420 Memorandum of Understanding providing for the formation
and operation of the Butte Basin Water Users
Association - action requested - APPROVE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING AND AUTHORIZE THE CHAIR TO SIGN. (225)
MOTION: I MOVE TO APPROVE THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING AND AUTHORIZE THE CHAIR TO SIGN.
S M
VOTE: 1 Y 2 Y 3 Y 4 Y 5 Y (Unanimously Carried)
92-4.21 Report to the Board - obstruction of .public roads -
action requested - AUTHORIZE DIRECTOR-PUBLIC WORKS TO
REQUEST REMOVAL BY RESPONSIBLE PRIVATE PARTY OF GATES OR
OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS FROM COX LANE AND ANY OTHER PUBLIC
ROADS. IF OBSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT SO REMOVED WITHIN A
REASONABLE TIME, DIRECT DIRECTOR-PUBLIC WORKS TO REMOVE
THEM. (281)
MOTION: I MOVE TO AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR-PUBLIC WORKS
TO REQUEST REMOVAL BY RESPONSIBLE PRIVATE
PARTY OF GATES OR OTHER OBSTRUCTIONS FROM COX
LANE AND ANY OTHER PUBLIC ROADS. IF
OBSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT SO REMOVED WITHIN A
REASONABLE TIME, DIRECT DIRECTOR-PUBLIC WORKS
TO REMOVE THEM.
M
VOTE: 1 2 3 4 5 (Motion Dies/Lack of Second)
Page 353
November 10, 1992
February 14, 1995
95-32 39. First modification to the Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) providing for formation and
operation of the Butte Basin Water Users
Association - the modification of the MOU (approved
by the Working Committee of the Butte Basin Water
Users Association on December 14, 1994) provides .
for addition of the Del Oro Water Company to the
Butte Basin Water Users Association and sets forth
the voting and financial contributions of each of
the fifteen participants (this modification does
not impact Butte County's funding obligation or the
weight of its vote) - action requested - APPROVE
FIRST MODIFICATION OF THE MOU OF THE BUTTE BASIN
WATER USERS ASSOCIATION AND AUTHORIZE THE CHAIR TO
SIGN.
40. Reverted Jail Bond Act agreement - an agreement has
been prepared with the State Board of Corrections
for reverted jail bond act funds in the amount of
$405,000 (State/$303,750 and Local/$101,250) for
remodeling of the jail kitchen and construction of
a security screen over the recreation yards at the
new jail - action requested - ADOPT RESOLUTION 95-
29 APPROVING THE AGREEMENT AND AUTHORIZE CHAIR TO
SIGN.
41. Testing services agreement - new court building -
an agreement has been prepared with Applied Testing
Consultants of Chico covering special testing
services to be performed during construction of the
new court building. The amount of the agreement is
in the estimated amount of $22,000 - action
requested - APPROVE AGREEMENT AND AUTHORIZE CHAIR
TO SIGN.
42. Grant application - State Off-Highway Vehicle
Funding - the grant application has been prepared
in the amount of $17,000 for fiscal year 1995-96
and provides for the removal of snow from the five
miles of Humboldt Road in Butte Meadows from the
"Green Gate" (Pasiute Campground) to 1/2 mile above
Colby Creek Bridge, where the Jonesville Staging
Area is located �- action requested - ADOPT
RESOLUTION 95-30 APPROVING THE GRANT APPLICATION
AND AUTHORIZING THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER TO
SIGN THE AGREEMENT AND SUBSEQUENT APPLICATIONS AND
AGREEMENTS WITH THE STATE.
Page 41
February 14, 1995
February, 14, 1995
95-32 43. State Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs (ADP)
Drug/Medi-Cal contract - ADP, by authority of an
interagency agreement with the Department of Health
and Human Services, has accepted the County Mental
Health, Alcohol and Drug Services' Medi-Cal
proposal for fiscal year 1994-95 (anticipated
revenue $624,442) . The proposal is to capture
Federal Drug/Medi-Cal dollars for services provided
by the County's two certified Drug/Medi-cal
providers - Butte County Mental Health, Alcohol and
Drug Services and the County's contracted perinatal
service provider, Enloe Hospital "Touchstone" -
action requested - APPROVE CONTRACT AND AUTHORIZE
THE CHAIR TO SIGN.
44. Butte County Office of Education (BCOE) - the
Welfare Department and the BCOE are requesting
changes to Exhibit "A" of the Schools Collaboration
Contract to provide an improved description of the
services to be provided and identification of the
agency providing the services. There are no
changes in the cost of services or appropriations -
action requested - APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO
CONTRACT AND AUTHORIZE THE CHAIR TO SIGN.
45. Paradise Unified School District/Parent Education
Network - proposed is an amendment of the Parent
Collaboration Contract to 1) reduce the contract
amount with respect to the Paradise Unified School
District by .$17,950, and 2) amend the contract to
change services provided by Parent Education
Network to - services provided by Butte County
Probation Department in the amount of -$17,950 -
action requested - APPROVE BUDGET TRANSFER B-137
AND AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO CONTRACT AND AUTHORIZE THE
CHAIR TO SIGN.
46. Area 2 Developmental Disabilities Board Annual
Report Fiscal Year 1993-94 - action requested
ACCEPT FOR INFORMATION.
MOTION: I MOVE TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS
PRESENTED.
S M
VOTE: 1 Y 2 Y 3 Y 4 Y 5 Y (Unanimously Carried)
Page 42
February 14, 1995
BUTTE BASIN WATER USERS ASSOCIATION
WORKING COMMITTEE
Minutes
November 13, 1996.
The meeting was called to order by Mark Lightcap, Chairman, at 8:40 a.m.
Item 1) The Water Plan Coordinator, Wes Gilbert, called the roll.
Working Committee
Agency Representative Present Alternate Present
Butte-Sutter BAGUA Robert Hennigan Fred Montgomery X
Butte Water Dist. Joe Bozzo Mark Orme
Cal. Water Service Mark Lightcap X Robert Guzzetta y
City of Biggs Bob Byers
City of Gridley Dan Boeger
Butte County Mary Anne Houx Susan Minasian X
Jane Dolan
Richvale Irrig. Gene Harris X Troy Kellett X
Western Canal W. D. Don Heffren X Homer Lundberg X
Durham Mutual Water Joe Kaye Rich Smith
Biggs-West Gridley Huey Tidwell Bemoy Bradford X
City of Chico Ted Hubbert Bob Boehm
Technical Committee
Butte Water Dist. Mark Orme
Cal. Water Service Robert Guzzetta
Butte County Joe Connell X Wm. Richardson X.
Western Canal W.D. Gary Brown X
Biggs-West Gridley Huey Tidwell
Butte Sutter BAGUA Fred Montgomery X Mark Kimmelshue X
Dept. of Water Resources Dan McManus . X
Others present were Bill Baber, Minasian Law Firm; and Wes Gilbert, Water Plan Coordinator.
Item 2) On motion by Don Heffren, seconded by Gene Harris, unanimously carried, the minutes of the
October 9 and October 18, 1996 meetings were approved.
Page 1 of 7
Jan-28-97 02: 17P BUTTE COUNTY ADMIN 916 538 7120 P_01
BUTTE COUNTY FAX TRANSMITTAL
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
25 COUNTY CENTER DRIVE
OROVILLE,CA 95965
FAX: (916) 538-7120
DATE: January 28, 1997
TO: Name: Connor Murphy, Associate Planner
Agency: County of Butte
Fax#: x7785
FROM: Name: Sean B.Farrell,Administrative Analyst
Phone#: (916)538-7052
MESSAGE: ,
Connor,
I found a copy of the original MOU forming BBWUA and its first amendment. I will send you a
copy through the courier. Please let me know if you would rather pick them up at my office
today.
7. Number of pages including this sheet: 1
f
............
r
.10
MEMORANDUM
TO: Sean Farrell
FROM: Connor Murphy
SUBJECT: GP Water Amendment
DATE: January 23, 1997
I have been assigned the responsibility of processing the general plan water amendment proposed by
the water commission.
As soon as I started my analysis, It occurred to me that the proposal could be handled in a more
appropriate manner. I recommend the general plan amendment application be withdrawn and the
proposal be adopted as a water commission policy instrument.
My recommendation is based on the following reasons:
I The general plan was conceived as a tool for distributing land among general categories such
as residential, commercial, and industrial. The general plan is a good tool for defining long
range population density and building intensity.
2. The general plan can also serve as a statement of shared values: values that can be physically
reflected as buildings, monuments, parks, and other works found in human settlements.
1 - - 3. The general plan was never intended to be a tool for addressing non-land use issues. When
a general plan is stretched to serve purposes beyond its original province, it fails miserably.
* . Over the years, the legislature has added several politically inspired non-land use"required
elements" to general plans. None have proven effective.
4. Land use distribution embodies many real estate and financial aspects. Consequently,any
application requesting a general plan amendment inevitably attracts undue attention from
special interest groups. General plan amendment is a controversial action:prima facie.
Department of Development Services
If the proposal were to be adopted as a water commission policy instrument rather than as part of a.
state mandatory general plan element, it seems to me that the water commission would retain far
more control. Once policy becomes part of the general plan, the supervisors become the controlling
agency rather than the water commission. The water commission, especially with the passage of
Measure G, may be better served by avoiding the general plan.
From my initial analysis, I can find no compelling reason why the water policy instrument should
become part of the general plan. The general plan is not always the best place to record policy.. .
Please get back to me as soon as possible. I would like to avoid spending any more money
processing this application, if the item can be removed from the planning commission agenda.
JAmemos\23jan97b
Department of Development Services .
2
4
11 • �� . Ll
.
INTER-DEPARTMENTAL MEMORANDUM Butte County Cohn"
TO: Sean Farrell, Administration DEC 3 1 1996
FROM: Tom Reid, Environmental Health •�� ®roville, CallfoffN8
SUBJECT: Measure G
DATE: December 30, 1996
Sean as a followup to our discussion of December 18, 1996, I'm providing these additional
considerations relative to Measure G. Please accept the comments as informative only,
understanding that resolution of Measure G issues will require numerous decisions and tasks.
As you are aware, the responsibilities of Measure G as currently worded would reside within
the Public Health Department. As an alternate to the Public Health Department, the
Agricultural Commissioner's office has been discussed.
In addition to Public Health and the Agricultural Commissioner's Office it appears appropriate
to, at an early date, bring the new Development Services Director, Tom Parilo into the
discussion. There are a number of structural and process elements currently within the
responsibilities of Development Services that warrant the Department's inclusion and
consideration as they relate to Measure G.
1 . CEQUA consideration is part of Measure G. Development Services is the lead County
Department for the CEQUA process, is organized to complete CEQUA revisions, has
a GIS system and is otherwise has the existing CEQUA infrastructure for the CEQUA
process.
2. Development Services is the County Department that routinely processes a variety of
discretionary permits and approvals, sets, posts and advertises associated hearings and
advises neighboring property owners.
3. The County General Plan a water management element is entering the comment and
discussion phase. Numerous elements of the process and Measure G implementation
will be duplicative of the general plan process unless treated as a consolidated activity. .
4. Mandates of Measure G relate to the broad question of general groundwater
management, the economics of water sales and the associated impacts. These are
discretionary and policy process decisions are routinely part of Development Services
activities.
Within the Health Department there are concerns that an attempt to assimilate a new
discretionary program into a Department organized to complete ministerial activities would not
be cost effective and would accelerate the diversion of management resources from numerous
issues already mandated to be addressed. For the Environmental Health Division resources
currently lag to adequately address the following:
Sean Farrell/Measure G
December 30, 1996
Page 2
1. An underfunded Animal Control Program with high public expectations, inadequate
sheltering space and insecure future funding.
2. Expanding solid waste responsibilities.
3. Implementation of the hazardous materials business plan program.
4. Assimilation of the Chico and Oroville underground fuel tank program.
x -
5. Work with Development Services, Public Works, Fire etc. to complete the coordination
of land use issues.
6. Develop interoffice uniformity in sewage disposal permit processes.
7. Work with Public Works and the Regional Water Quality Control Board to .effectively .
oversee and fund community and engineered sewage disposal facilities.
8: Develop routine lines of communication with the engineering community and the new
CSUC sewage disposal training center to familiarize the community with the
complexities of current and future waste water issues.
9. Implement and monitor the enhanced public water supply inspection and sampling-
program associated with new State funding.
10. ' Work with the State EPA relative to the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA)
mandates that incorporate exempt, conditionally exempt, tiered permitted hazardous
waste generator as well as above ground storage of hazardous materials program into
a local umbrella program.
11 . Continue enhancement of the ongoing cost containment/cost recovery program.
12. Work with Public Works, Administration, County Counsel and the Regional Water
Quality Control Board to improve CSA oversight of community and special design
waste water systems.
TR/mlf
cc: Gary House
LS,�san�:Minasian;'
BUTTE COUNTY
` DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
PLANNING DIVISION
TO: Public Works
FROM: William Farrel, Director Of Development Services
RE: , Request for Comments on a Development Application: Water Commission,CPA 97-01
DATE: December 18,1996 PLANNER:Connor Murphy
We have received an application for development of the below described property. We are reviewing the application liar
completeness and,if complete,for conditions of approval. If the application is determined to be complete within all days.
of its submittal it should be heard at the estimated hearing date indicated below. Comments 1-0111 your
department/division/agency regarding completeness of the application and/or possible conditions of approval arc rc(lucstcd.
Should you not be able to respond in the timeframe given,or if you have any questions,please do not hcsrtatc to gl vc us a
call at 538-7601. Thank you in advance for your time and efforts.
This is an application for aproposal to add water management to the County General Plan. the proposal consists of County
wide Water Management issues, og als,policies and programs located coup!, wide.
THIS ITEM HAS BEEN TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED FOR A HEARING BEFORE THE(check one)
X PLANNING COMMISSION _DEVELOPMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE
ON MU 8, 1997.
YOUR COMMENTS,IF ANY,ARE REQUESTED BY NO LATER THAN January 2, 1997_ IFN0(:0jW/VII--'N7'.)' .
OR COMMUNICATIONARE RECEIVED BY THAT DATE, WE WILL ASSUME T HAT YOU HA VE IVONh_'.
COMMENTS(Attach additional pages if necessary):
1. I'/d(id- CON-G poc 1e-r /-/0 �n-`v►,�/fit _ _
107X/A4 /Ze-50oz CC'S co"'X&! VA r-""") en G r ela
&yL,YL sC-1v 4e.!Gel's 14va /N.t rr2e! 0&1 ,L
3 . Qa K las7
As,�pp be..t
w� tn�
A �y C.cMS 1ty.�wk��"\ v' a►
" en✓j' istQie '��
va vcc,w`_ — W vN
o/
By: �(/l Date:
k:\forms\comment.frm 10-16-95 BKH. It
Planning Division
JAN 2 2 1997
urovoie, Cautomti
7 County Center Drive -Oroville,California 95965 - 916-538-7601 FAX 916-538-7785
RECEIVED
DEC 1 ,x. 1996
`COUNTY OF BUTTE
LAND DEVELOPMENT DIV.
� ±r• r•- ...� { �•t�r ..�I�,:� .. � w it
,' � � .. '. f`�""'�•' .. �, r � +� � -.'�, � ray_• t: ^ :.j.
iy
I �
BUTTE COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
PLANNING DIVISION
TO:
FROM: William Farrel, Director Of Development Services
RE: Request for Comments on a Development Application: Water Commission,GPA 97-01
DATE: December 18,1996 PLANNER:
We have received an application for development of the below described property. We are reviewing the application for
completeness and,if complete,for conditions of approval. If the application is determined to be complete within 30 days
of its submittal it should be heard at the estimated hearing date indicated below. Comments from your
departinent/division/agency regarding completeness of the application and/or possible conditions of approval are requested.
Should you not be able to respond in the time frame given,or if you have any questions,please do not hesitate to give us a
callat 538-7601. Thank you in advance for your time and efforts.
This is an application for a proposal to add water management to the County General Plan. the proposal consists of County
wide Water Management issues, og als,policies and programs located county wide.
THIS ITEM HAS BEEN TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED FOR A HEARING BEFORE THE(check one)
X PLANNING COMMISSION _DEVELOPMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE
ON May 8; 1997.
YOUR COMMENTS,IF ANY,ARE REQUESTED BY NO LATER THAN January 2,1997, IFNO COMMENTS
OR COMMUNICATIONARE RECEIVED BY THAT DATE, WE WILL ASSUME THAT YO U HA VE NONE.
COMMENTS(Attach additional pages if necessary):
By: Date:
k:\forms\comment.frm 10-16-95 BKH.It
7 County Center Drive =Oroville,California 95965 916-538-7601 FAX 916-538-7785
•
• S3�.LzydQ7�d ��Z' rpt�G� 11 n h+,t
do
to
'td C°�.t�?�vv� wt�F,v�r �ttir�v,��' s�dv�/J��1�• �?.r7
fg•vt/er��� �,.1 ��JL/I
W,434'W(V•t,9)0�1
i�'rl�Z� �.:�'7 -vD yjr✓v 'tV�711 b,S 'v?.L".7 Q r el, W ell9S
IYH 34 120
-Zc � ^'I
Wd z ,
i
• ^' t a �
I
.'!
.�_�,,,—
�.� — I f `
�, f .�.��
�♦ +
__.
t. � � r. ^
COMMENT DISTRIBUTION LIST
APPLICATION: Water Commission GPA 97-01
DATE: December 18, 1996
County Offices and Cities:
_ Chief Administrative Officer' _X_ Develop.Services Director t,x– Public Works Director
X_ Environmental Health — Building Manager
_ Sheriff _ BCAG ALUC
X LAFCo _ APCD _ Butte Co.Farm Bureau
Biggs — Gridley — Chico
_ Oroville — Paradise _ Chico Airport Commission
–X– Agricultural Commission
Irrigation District:
_ Butte Water — Biggs/W.Gridley Water — Durham Irrigation
OWID — Paradise Irrigation — Richvale Irrigation
Table Mountain Irrigation — Thermalito Irrigation — Other
Domestic Water
_ 'Butte Water District _ California Water Service Co. _ Del Oro Water Co.
OWID — Thermalito Irrigation District _ Other
Sewer
Butte Water District — Themalito Irrigation — Sterling City Sewer Main
Skansen Subdivision(CSA 21) _ L.O.A.PUD
Fire Protection
–X– California Department of Forestry— EI Medio Fire Protection District
Recreation Districts
_ Chico Area Recreation _ Durham Area Recreation _ Feather River Rec.&Park
Paradise Recreation&Park Richvale Recreation &Parks
Utilities
PG&E North-Chico _ Chambers Cable TV Pacific Bell
PG&E South-Oroville Viacom Cable TV
State Agencies
CalTrans _ Dept.of Water Resources _ Dept.of Fish and Game "
_ Forestry(Attn:Craig Carter) _ Dept of Parks and Rec. _ Highway Patrol
Central Reg,Water Quality Control
Department of Conservation — Off.of Mining Reclamation — Off.of Governmental&Env.Relations
Federal Agencies
— US Forest Service — US Bureau of Land Management
Other Districts,Agencies,Committees,etc.
Lime Saddle Dist — Community Association _ Mosy.Abatement.Oroville/Butte Cu
_ Drainage _ Butte Env.l Council — Paradise Pines Com.
_ Reclamation _ Cal Native Plant Society
Butte Co.Mining Committee — — ----.-. _._ _
(NOTE: Final draft wa language recommended by'theater Commission at it's
meeting of 10/01/96 and supported by BBWUA for inclusion in the General Plan
update.)
# CONSERVATION ELEMENT #
PROFILE OF WATER RESOURCES �purl
Water supply in Butte Count reflects the count 's location in northern California in a
PP Y Y Y
region where annual precipitation is relatively high. The County includes geographic' lui Prop ir .�
provinces of the Sacramento Valley, and the foothill and mountain areas of the Sierra and
Cascade ranges. The mountainous portions of the Co\my consist of approximately a third P
of the County's land area and function as the major w ershed area a�oug the foothill
"v-' areas also collect co .sider-able._pr_ecipitation. Theelhigher-portion of the County receive W
bundant nowfall. he summers are hot and dry and-most precipitation occurs during the
-� ;� ,• in er and-spring. Conversely, the highest water usage isduring the dry summer months X44
(hen agricultural irrigation is in progress. _ ` d�c�� ��ut
1, 444{ 1j 4- J—) ,
The entire County lies within the Sacramento River drainage. The Feather River with its
several brand s fLo-wstlucZugh ie_QVq�n Butte Creek and Bi Chico Creek are also
sizeable hile the County is nearlyd of natural lakes, there are numerous man 1
ma a impoundments for water supply and flood control urposes. Orovi I �.am_aad—. �,,,�,
f reservoir on the Feather River, is the second largest such facilit in California and is the
�. ni - nd largest reservoir of the State Water Project. It's waters serve many users, both �-
v within the County, and beyond, to southern California w
Underlying the Sacramento Valley floor is arge groundwater basin. The Butte Basin is
s 4,�, th ffma groundwater storage basin in the County; portions of it underlay adjoining
mk counties Munici Municipalities, e n , and owners rel on groundwater from the Butte
�. _ Y
.L1,,►� ^+► � Basin and other roundwater bo tes a area as a source of supply. As a result of the
NIZ?atewide drought-of fffe lafe 1980s and early 1990's, the State Department of Water
Resource developed����oluntary water sharing program known as the State Water Bank.
Some landowners��w'`1 11h, the boundaries of agricultural water[wwdistricts located within the
Butte Basin,sold a portion of their surface water supplies %e years 1991, 1992 and
-994— veil-irilandowners�selling a portion of surface water supplies in those years then :
kvJA
substituted qroundwater pumping on o y g lands to irrigate their cro s. he action
Edurin
ded needed water supplies for other primarily agricultural state wat_ contractors tws
the drought years of 199 1992 and 1994.)CCo-mplaihts resulted, however, from s
other farmers landowners within the unty that creased pumping of groundwater Tito to
lowered the water t�� le„ dem"Nb.Iip��g-far er-/4aadow e�r.�opet s adversely wklk
affecting their wells' o�significantly increasing pumping costs The Butte Basin Water
Users Association, an organization of public and private water users of which Butte Count
is a part, did finance and cause the preparation of a etailed h drologic mode of the Butte
A��DC,r�oy_dw .ter Basin as a potential management oo . he intent of the Butte Basin Water
,Ilk h �
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-1
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT # .
Users Association Hydrologic Groundwater Model is to help provide the knowledge
needed to insure that the use of the groundwater resource within the Butte basin is
reasonable and within the safe annual yield and avoids creating groundwater overdraft
areas within the Basin.
In general, surface water in the County is of a quality level suitable for agricultural use.
Groundwater from the Butte Basin has also been historically of good quality for farming
and municipal and domestic uses. However, coliform, solvents, and salts are all potential
pollutants in the area. There have been several documented water pollution situations in
recent years which have required significant and ongoing efforts to correct. Both within
the Chico Urban Area, the Town of Paradise, and the Sutter Buttes area there have been
documented water quality problems from excessive levels of coliforms or nitrates entering
the groundwater aquifer. Failed septic systems, or too many septic systems in a
concentrated area are probable causes and corrective measures are being evaluated.
Surface water quality is also at risk.from potential chemical spills, such as occurred in
1991 as a result of a train derailment on the upper Sacramento River.
The relationship of storm water runoff to the maintenance of surface and groundwater
quality is critical. During the "first flush" of fall rains, pollutants which have accumulated
on the surface of the land, especially impervious surfaces, are washed into the drainage
system and can enter surface water bodies or the groundwater. Protection of water quality
needs to be a significant consideration.
Although surface water and groundwater are interrelated, current State and Federal water
law governing these two water sources is drastically different. In an attempt to coordinate
and integrate on a state-wide basis, the use of groundwater resources by water purveyors,
Governor Wilson signed Assembly Bill 3030 into law in October 1992 which allows water
purveyors to prepare groundwater management plans. This is an indication of the
importance of groundwater resources to California's total water supply system given
California's steady population increase and attendant municipal, commercial, residential
and agricultural development. Further, public agencies throughout California have begun
to plan in terms of entire watersheds, in recognition that land use activities and
development can affect both the amount of water yield from the watershed, and water
quality. The County has in the past recognized the importance of controlling development
in the watershed utilized by the Paradise Irrigation District to provide domestic water for
the Town of Paradise and other development in the area. The County has applied special
standards for new development with the objective of preserving water quality.
While recognition has grown of the interrelatedness of ground and surface water
resources, there is still a need to seek and find a level of cooperation amongst the
numerous water users and purveyors within the County. Agricultural, municipal, domestic
and, to a certain extent, industrial water users and even the State all divert surface water
or pump groundwater depending upon the individual circumstances of their agricultural,
domestic, or municipal water situation. A number of agricultural water supply districts,
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-2
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT #
and several municipal water purveyors have been established, At present there is no
single public or private agency in an overall coordinative role that can act to bring the
activities of the many individuals and agencies into the best possible harmony.' At this
time, the Butte Basin Water Users Association is an active attempt by public and private
water agencies and local water users within the Butte Basin, to join their respective
knowledge and, to a certain extent, their powers, in order to reasonably use groundwater
resources and continue the protection of the Butte Basin's groundwater aquifers. In this
context, the County of Butte is a member agency of the Butte Basin Water Users
Association and therefore is participating with other public and private agencies and local
landowners/groundwater users overlying Butte Basin in prohibiting overdraft and managing
the groundwater resources so as not to exceed the safe annual yield. Additionally, recent
case law supports a greater role for counties in the area of groundwater management
through the use of the police power to protect the safety, health and welfare of County
residents. The County also has broad land use planning and regulatory powers as well
as responsibilities under the California Environmental Quality Act, all of which are used
to control urban and rural development throughout the County, and to protect its natural
environment and thereby to assist in the management of water resources within the
County. These powers should be used in cooperation with local water districts and
purveyors and in the best interests of the public.
ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
The following discussion, organized around topical headings, summarized the primary
issues that the plan policies and programs that follow are intended to resolve.
Surface and Groundwater Supply
The availability of water is continuing to decline in California in relationship to ever
increasing demands. The State Water Bank has been developed as a mechanism to be
used in times of critical water needs in addition to droughts. The County is viewed by the
state as rich in water and a potential source of additional water that could be exported to
other areas of the state which are characterized by the state as areas with critical needs.
All previous plans in Butte County have been based on the existence of abundant water
supplies. However, whether this remains a valid assumption must now be tested carefully.
A key issue facing the county is the potential for a reduction of water resources in the
County, which may threaten to undermine the County's existing and future economies,
degrade invaluable natural habitat, and reduce the overall living quality in the area.
Assurances must be developed, based on reliable data, that the in-County water needs
can be fully and economically met over the long term.
I
Water Quality
Increasing population, development, and commercial, industrial and agricultural activity
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-3
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT #
can result in adverse impacts to water quality. Yet maintenance of water quality at
acceptable levels for various uses is essential and is a vital public health concern. To
pollute the water anywhere in the system, or to damage any part of the system, is to
threaten the water of everyone in Butte County and beyond.
The County has already experienced localized water quality problems. In the Chico area
nitrates concentrated in the groundwater are requiring costly evaluation and correction.
Similar problems have been found in Paradise. Fecal coliform levels in Big Chico Creek
threaten to close One Mile pool in Bidwell Park. As development in the rural.foothill and
mountain areas of the county where public sewer systems are not available continues,
many of the best sites for septic systems have now been utilized. Care must be given to
ensure that new development does not pose health problems or cause water quality
impacts. When alternative wastewater systems or package treatment plants are proposed
in place of conventional septic systems, financial and technical assurances are needed
that long term operational reliability and maintenance requirements will be provided for.
Attention also needs to be directed to the siting and regulation of new commercial and
industrial uses that utilize materials posing potential sources of water contamination. Such
uses need to be located at safe distances from water bodies, flood plains, and
groundwater recharge areas.
Urban storm water runoff can also be a significant source of pollution to surface and
groundwater resources, as accumulated pollutants are flushed from streets and other
impervious surfaces. Oils which can contain metal and volatile hydrocarbons are one of
the most common such pollutants picked up by storm water, but many other harmful
substances and chemicals are present on the land's surface and pose potential threats to
water quality.
Watershed Management
Water resources within the County are best visualized as part of an interconnected
hydrologic system. Activities within any part of the system can affect both water supply
and water quality within both the immediate area, and also in more distant areas. A
comprehensive "watershed" approach to managing water resources is needed in which
land use decisions are considered in light of their effects on the hydrologic system.
The mountain and foothill areas of the county serve as a portion of the watershed
providing water supply for the valley floor where water demands are greatest. It is of
obvious concern to water users in the valley, that activities within the watershed not
adversely affect the supply or quality of water. Similarly, the Paradise area is vitally
concerned that the watersheds providing water to Paradise and Magalia Reservoirs be
protected from excessive development or land use activities that could adversely affect the
water supply. The Concow Lake watershed also serves as an important water supply.
Mining activities above Philbrook Lake have, in the past, caused siltation problems at the
lake with adverse impacts to this recreational resource. Logging and mining activities,
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-4
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT.#
because of their scale, pose clear risks to the integrity of watersheds when not properly
planned and managed. Overgrazing, although less obvious, can also adversely affect
watersheds. The County also needs to be concerned about the effects of activities in-the
watersheds lying outside the county but which are the source of water within the county.
Among such activities are logging within the adjacent counties to the east and north and
within Plumas and Lassen National Forests. Urban and industrial development in
watersheds increase the potential for pollutants in surface and groundwater and
diminishes the potential for recharge. The ramifications of all activities and development
in the watershed areas need to be reviewed and where appropriate, managed to provide
protection of critical water resources.
.Coordination of Public and Private Activities
The delivery, conveyance, transmission, and distribution of water supplies by a number
of agricultural water purveying entities, some other public and private water agencies and
individual landowners and water users is a primary means for producing agricultural
products and making these commodities available outside of Butte County. This makes-
Butte County's agricultural area one of the significant producing areas in the State of
California. Decisions made regarding the conveyance, distribution and use of water both
municipal?domestic,1industrial anAgricultural in Butte County are significant and in most
cases are made by Boards of Directors governing local irrigation and water agencies
existing within Butte County. Additionally, the recent development and operation of the
Butte Basin Water Users Association assists in the coordination of public and private
groundwater supplies by fostering and encouraging communication and cooperation
amoncRall entities existing within that Association. Water users within Butte County are
also affected by decisions in other, out of County,jurisdictions. As the primary,,multi-
purpose governmental agency in the area, Butte County can act and sponsor educational
forums regarding the acquisition, conveyance, delivery and use of agricultural, municipal,
industrial and domestic water supplies and can provide leadership to the coordination of
the use of watei* resources.
GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS
Surface and Groundwater Supply
Goal 1
Ensure the conservation of water resources for use within Butte County.
Policies
1.1 Consider all water resources historically developed and used within the County to
be essential to the County's future and the well-being of its citizens and the natural
environment. Take steps, within the County's power, to regulate water resources
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-5
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT #
as appropriate.
1.2 Retain for reasonable, beneficial use within the County, sufficient waters found
within Butte County in order to meet the needs of the natural and human
environment and to provide for long-term growth envisioned by the General Plan
including the needs of the incorporated and unincorporated communities.
1.3 Provide a leadership and/or supporting role in establishing and implementing
policies which guide the beneficial use of water resources within Butte County
overlying the Butte Basin. In cooperation with other public and private water
agencies and landownerstwater users, develop a county-wide Water Management
Plan and water budget to the extent feasible, which addresses both surface and
groundwater resources, sufficient to ensure that all current and future beneficial
uses of water within the County are met to the maximum extent possible.
1.4 Oppose any public or private plans which adversely impact existing Butte County
hydrology which would cause groundwater extraction exceeding the safe yield
and/or create a condition of groundwater basin overdraft until a comprehensive
county-wide Water Management Plan has been prepared and approved by Butte
County, following broad public input by all interested parties.
1.5 Manage groundwater resources so that extractions do not exceed the safe annual
yield of the aquifer within the County.
1.6 Coordinate and work with water agencies to promote increased understanding and
support for careful stewardship of Butte County's water resources.
1.7 Develop and promote a broad public knowledge of existing surface water
resources, groundwater resources, and the total existing demands of the full range
of water uses within the County.
d. J:,hdc! 'etc
1.8 Support the preparation of coordinated13O3O Groundwater Management Plans by
all eligible water purveyors within the Butte Basin.
1.9 Support water reclamation projects which increase usage of existing water
resources and support development of additional water supplies that do not have
adverse unmitigatable environmental impacts.
1.10 Retain the capacity and function of groundwater recharge sites shown on Figure
CON Enhance recharge capacity by protecting the natural recharge sites.
Programs
1.1 In cooperation with public and private agencies, organizations, and groups that
r
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CONS
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT #
have an interest in water resources management in the County or surrounding
areas prepare, adopt, and implement a comprehensive county-wide Water
Management Plan to ensure the long-term protection, use, and maintenance of
surface and groundwater resources and the natural environment dependant on
water. The Plan shall include, but not be limited to the following components and
shall be reviewed and updated at least every two.years:
# An inventory of water supply sources, quantity, quality, and
projected long range demands for water to support human activities
and environmental and ecological requirements.
# An accessible, comprehensive, and regularly updated database.
# Description of water management and regulatory policies, programs,
and standards of the various agencies and organizations with an
interest in water resources management in the County and their
plans and programs.
# Identification, documentation, and prioritization of the County's most
significant water management problems and alternative responses.
# Use of the best available water resources management
principles, including water conservation techniques for urban
and agricultural activities, non-point source pollution control,
waste disposal monitoring and controls, groundwater recharge, r
aquifer protection, watershed planning, habitat and ecological
protection, and flood control.
# Integration of water management concepts and proposals with other
.County plans and policies addressing land use, habitat and species
protection, flood control, agricultural, and community development
needs.
# Effective funding mechanisms. .
1.2 Support preparation of 3030 groundwater management plans by all water purveyors
within the Butte Basin, and encourage overall coordination of these plans with
County objectives for management of groundwater resources within the county.
1.3 Recommend formal recognition by the California Department of Water Resources
.of water requirements for full County development in accordance with the Butte
County General Plan, comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan, and
the principle of "area of origin" rights. Secure binding agreements with the State
that such water resources shall be reserved for usage within the County as local
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-7
# CONSERVATION ELEMENT # •
agricultural, environmental and development needs dictate, in accordance with
"area of origin" principles. If necessary, initiate and pursue special state legislation
ensure this water reservation is formally made.
1.4 Support public education concerning conservation benefits of water saving devices
• and practices including low flow water fixtures, gray water re-use systems, low
demand xeriscape landscaping, and drip irrigation.
1.5 Encourage water conservation by all water users and support of public and private
entities in their efforts to provide information about water saving irrigation methods
and related water conservation practices.
1.6 Encourage the use of treated wastewater for agricultural uses, or aquaculture in
a manner that is economic and beneficial to these users. Encourage use of treated
waste water for recreational facilities and environmental purposes.
Water Quality
Goal 2
Ensure surface and ground water quality, vital to public and environmental health and
continued commercial, industrial and agricultural activity is maintained at acceptable
levels.
Policies
2.1 Promote broad public understanding and support for the protection of water quality
and support the activities of other public agencies charged with ensuring water
quality standards are met for all waters originating in or passing through Butte
County.
2.2 Incorporate the "best available" water quality protection measures including storm
water runoff control into the review and approval of new development projects.
2.3 Utilize policies and programs set forth under sections of the Conservation Element
relating to Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat as a means of minimizing site conflicts with
protection of water resources and as a means of reducing erosion potential.
2.4 Incorporate watershed protection concepts into land use planning within the
County, at both the master plan and site plan level.
2.5 Avoid approving or siting land use activities with significant potential for pollution
or contamination of surface or groundwater, in locations that could adversely affect
these water resources. Maintain such uses well away from known groundwater
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-8
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT # •
recharge sites.
2.6 Direct urban density residential projects to urban areas where approved community
water systems and other necessary facilities are available, or ensure that when
such projects are located in .the outlying areas of the County, that approved
community water systems, sewage treatment facilities and storm drainage will be
provided by the developer.
2.7 Ensure that waste water discharges into surface waters conform with guidelines set
forth in the most recent version of the Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region
5 Basin Plan - Water Quality Control Plan Report.
2.8 Cooperate with other agencies in taking prompt and effective action to avert or
respond to water contamination incidents.
2.9 Encourage and support wastewater reclamation programs.
Programs
2:1 Apply appropriate performance standards and best management practices to new
development in watershed areas.
2.2 Work with public water purveyors and local citizens groups to establish watershed
protection zones where public water supply systems are located and create land
use and development regulations tailored to each unique watershed.
2.3 Continue to work with the Regional Water Quality Control Board on controlling
waste water discharge from development projects.
2.4 Work with the Regional Water Quality Control Board to ensure compliance with the
Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 5 Basin Plan - Water Quality Control
Plan Report.
2.5 Work with public water purveyors and other water agencies to promote an
increased level of public understanding regarding water quality.
2.6 Develop a program to accurately document the locations and other relevant data
for all new, existing, and abandoned wells in the County. Require such information
as part of the application for discretionary permits, building permits and other land
use approvals.
2.7 Coordinate and cooperate with all interested parties in maintaining a water well
ordinance which provides for the public health, safety and welfare of Butte County
domestic, municipal and industrial groundwater well users and suppliers. The
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-9
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT. #
extent of regulations set forth in a well ordinance should be regularly evaluated to
insure the safe yield and prohibit groundwater overdraft of a portion of the Butte
Basin aquifer underlying Butte County. Such evaluation should consider,adopted
3030 plans by local public and/or private water purveying agencies.
Watershed Management
Goal 3
Maintain watersheds within the county in healthy, ecologically functional condition in order
to ensure long term water availability, water quality, and aesthetic and environmental
amenities.
Policies
3.1 Incorporate sound watershed management principles in land use planning at the
Comprehensive Plan level and in community, neighborhood and specific plans.
Integrate watershed management principals into the development regulation
process.
3.2 Encourage land management and development activities, including logging and
silviculture methods, and site preparation for residential and commercial projects
which retain maximum feasible vegetative ground cover in order to minimize soils
disturbance.
3.3 Address and mitigate the adverse impact of fires on water quality by encouraging
- private and public landowners in watershed areas to implement vegetation and fuel
load management.
3.4 For areas of the County dependent upon localized groundwater, surface water
supplies or a mixture of both, establish land use plans and residential, commercial
or industrial development standards that will.coordinate long-term growth without
taxing or encroaching upon the existing water supplies which are of reasonable and
beneficial use.
-3.5 Continue the special protection given to the Firhaven Creek, Paradise and Magalia
Reservoir Watershed Protection Zone, and periodically review the relationship
between development taking place in that watershed and the controls established
for the area. Update and improve upon these regulations where warranted.
3.6 In cooperation with local citizens, establish development performance standards,
road improvement standards and other pertinent standards for identified individual
watershed areas of public concern. To the extent possible, develop any such
controls in conjunction and coordination with community plans for the area.
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-
10
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT # •
Programs
3.1 Support other public agencies and citizen based organizations in management
activities for stream corridors or other water bodies.
3.2 Advocate improvements in federal, state and local regulations that are intended to
increase protection of watersheds and water quality.
3.3 Work with land owners to reduce the adverse impacts of their activities and to
protect watershed values and functional capacity.
3.4, Evaluate existing heavily used unpaved public access roads in the mountain areas
that experience significant soils erosion. Harden the surfaces near recreational
areas adjoining streams and water bodies in the County in order to minimize soil
erosion and stream sedimentation.
3.5 Support public education for watershed management.
Coordination of Public and Private Activities
Goal 4
Achieve a high level of coordination and consistency between the plans and management
activities of public and private agencies involved in water resources within Butte County.
Policies
4.1 Assume an active leadership role in bringing together other agencies and citizen
organizations in joint planning and coordination of water management activities.
4.2 Give consideration to the effects of development decisions on the water resources
of other agencies and individuals, actively seek input and guidance of other
agencies and water users before making such decisions, and in general seek to
be a "good partner" in the water management area.
4.3 Following its - development, encourage adoption, support suggested
recommendations for alteration and approval in a consensus building format of the
comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan for all public and private
water purveying agencies wholly or,partially located within Butte County, and utilize
the plan as a primary basis for decisions about water resources following
submission, review and comment by all interested parties.
4.4 Support and assist other private and/or public water purveying agencies or entities
in their activities which are in compliance with the comprehensive county-wide
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-11
• # CONSERVATION ELEMENT A
Water Management Plan and oppose activities not in compliance.
Programs
4.1 Utilize the process of developing a county-wide comprehensive Water Management
Plan as.the mechanism fogy building mutual support, trust and participation by all the
entities responsible for management of water resources within the County.
4.2- Designate an appropriate entity, such as Butte Basin Water Users Association
combined with other diverse county interests in water use,acquisition, transmission,
conveyance, distribution and delivery to take the lead in initiating a public process
for development of a county-wide comprehensive Water Management Plan.
4.3 Maintain an active and cooperative relationship with agencies such as the Butte
Basin Water Users Association, support their efforts to manage groundwater, and
support local districts' 3030 groundwater planning.activities.
4.4 Develop and utilize other methods and programs'to enhance mutual cooperation
and coordination among water interests within the County.
4.5 Encourage education of the public about the objectives and value of the
comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan.
# BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN #OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-12
(NOTE: Final draft Ar language recommended by thfater Commission at it's
meeting of 10/01/96 and supported by BBWUA for inclusion in the General Plan
update.)
■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■
PROFILE OF WATER RESOURCES
Water supply in Butte County reflects the county's location in northern California in a
region where annual precipitation is relatively high. The County includes geographic
provinces of the Sacramento Valley, and the foothill and mountain areas of the Sierra and
Cascade ranges. The mountainous portions of the County consist of approximately a third
of the County's land area and function as the major watershed area, although the foothill
areas also collect considerable precipitation. The higher portions of the County receive
abundant snowfall. The summers are hot and dry and most precipitation occurs during the
winter and spring. Conversely, the highest water usage is during the dry summer months
when agricultural irrigation is in progress.
The entire County lies within the Sacramento River drainage. The Feather River with its
several branches flows through the County. Butte Creek and Big Chico Creek are also
sizeable. While the County is nearly devoid of natural lakes, there are numerous man
made impoundments for water supply and flood control purposes. Oroville Dam and
reservoir on the Feather River, is the second largest such facility in California and is the
initial and largest reservoir of the State Water Project. It's waters serve many users, both
within the County, and beyond, to southern California.
Underlying the Sacramento Valley floor is a large groundwater basin. The Butte Basin is
the primary groundwater storage basin in the County; portions of it underlay adjoining
counties. Municipalities, and overlying land owners rely on groundwater from the Butte
Basin and other groundwater bodies in the area as a source of supply. As a result of the
statewide drought of the late 1980's and early 1990's, the State Department of Water
Resource developed a voluntary water sharing program known as the State Water Bank.
Some landowners within the boundaries of agricultural water districts located within the
Butte Basin sold a portion of their surface water.supplies in the years 1991, 1992 and
1994. Overlying landowners selling a portion of surface water supplies in those years then
substituted groundwater pumping on overlying lands to irrigate their crops. The action
provided needed water supplies for other primarily agricultural state water contractors
during the drought years of 1991, 1992 and 1994. Complaints resulted, however, from
other farmers/landowners within the County that increased pumping of groundwater
lowered the water table under complaining farmer'/landowners' properties adversely
affecting their wells or significantly' increasing pumping costs. The Butte Basin Water
Users Association, an organization of public and private water users of which Butte County
is a part, did finance and cause the preparation of a detailed hydrologic model of the Butte
Groundwater Basin as a potential management tool. The intent of the Butte Basin Water
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-1
■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■
Users Association Hydrologic Groundwater Model is to help provide the knowledge
needed to insure that the use of the groundwater resource within the Butte basin is
reasonable and within the safe annual yield and avoids creating groundwater overdraft
areas within the Basin.
In general, surface water in the County is of a quality level suitable for agricultural use.
Groundwater from the Butte Basin has also been historically of good quality for farming
and municipal and domestic uses. However, coliform, solvents, and salts are all potential
pollutants in the area. There have been several documented water pollution situations in
recent years which have required significant and ongoing efforts to correct. Both within
the Chico Urban Area, the Town of Paradise, and the Sutter Buttes area there have been
documented water quality problems from excessive levels of coliforms or nitrates entering
the groundwater aquifer. Failed septic systems, or too many septic systems in a
concentrated area are probable causes and corrective measures are being evaluated.
Surface water quality is also at risk from potential chemical spills, such as occurred in
1991 as a result of a train derailment on the upper Sacramento River.
of storm water runoff to the maintenance of surface and groundwater
The relationship
quality is critical. During the "first flush" of fall rains, pollutants which have accumulated
on the surface of the land, especially impervious surfaces, are washed into the drainage
system and can enter surface water bodies or the groundwater. Protection of water quality
needs to be a significant consideration.
Although surface water and groundwater are interrelated, current State and Federal water
law governing these two water sources is drastically different. In an attempt to coordinate
and integrate on a state-wide basis, the use of groundwater resources by water purveyors,
Governor Wilson signed Assembly Bill 3030 into law in October 1992 which allows water
purveyors to prepare groundwater management plans. This is an indication of the
importance of groundwater resources to California's total water supply system given
California's steady population increase and attendant municipal, commercial, residential
and agricultural development. Further, public agencies throughout California have begun
to plan in terms of entire watersheds, in recognition that land use activities and
development can affect both the amount of water yield from the watershed, and water
quality. The County has in the past recognized the importance of controlling development
in the watershed utilized by the Paradise Irrigation District to provide domestic water for
the Town of Paradise and other development in the area. The County has applied special
standards for new development with the objective of preserving water quality.
While recognition has grown of the interrelatedness of ground and surface water
resources, there is still a need to seek and find a level of cooperation amongst the
numerous water users and purveyors within the County. Agricultural, municipal, domestic
and, to a certain extent, industrial water users and even the State all divert surface water
or pump groundwater depending upon the individual circumstances of their agricultural,
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-2
I�
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■
domestic, or municipal water situation. A number of agricultural water supply districts,
and several municipal water purveyors have been established, At present there is no
single public or private agency in an overall coordinative role that can act to bring the
activities of the many individuals and agencies into the best possible harmony. At this
time, the Butte Basin Water Users Association is an active attempt by public and private
water agencies and local water users within the Butte Basin, to join their respective
knowledge and, to a certain extent, their powers, in order to reasonably use groundwater
resources and continue the protection of the Butte Basin's groundwater aquifers. In this
context, the County of Butte is a member agency of the Butte Basin Water Users
Association and therefore is participating with other public and private agencies and local
landowners/groundwater users overlying Butte Basin in prohibiting overdraft and managing
the groundwater resources so as not to exceed the safe annual yield. Additionally, recent
case law supports a greater role for counties in the area of groundwater management
through the use of the police power to protect the safety, health and welfare of County
residents. The County also has broad land use planning and regulatory powers as well
as responsibilities under the California Environmental Quality Act, all of which are used
to control urban and rural development throughout the County, and to protect its natural
environment and thereby to assist in the management of water resources within the
County. These powers should be used in cooperation with local water districts and
purveyors and in the best interests of the public.
ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
The following discussion, organized-around topical headings, summarized the primary
issues that the plan policies and programs that follow are intended to resolve.
Surface and Groundwater Supply
The availability of water is continuing to decline in California in relationship to ever
increasing demands. The State Water Bank has been developed as a mechanism to be
used in times of critical water needs in addition to droughts. The County is viewed by the
state as rich in water and a potential source of additional water that could be exported to
other areas of the state which are characterized by the state as areas with critical needs.
All previous plans in Butte County have been based on the existence of abundant water
supplies. However, whether this remains a valid assumption must now be tested carefully.
A key issue facing the county is the potential for a reduction of water resources in the
County, which may threaten to undermine the County's existing and future economies,
degrade. invaluable natural habitat, and reduce the overall living quality in the area.
Assurances must be developed, based on reliable data, that the in-County water needs
can be fully and economically met over the long term.
Water Quality
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-3
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■
Increasing population, development, and commercial, industrial and agricultural activity
can result in adverse impacts to water quality. Yet maintenance of water quality at
acceptable levels for various uses is essential and is a vital public health concern. To
pollute the water anywhere in the system, or to damage any part of the system, is to
threaten the water of everyone in Butte County and beyond.
The County has already experienced localized water quality problems. In the Chico area
nitrates concentrated in the groundwater are requiring costly evaluation and correction.
Similar problems have been found in Paradise. Fecal coliform levels in Big Chico Creek
threaten to close One Mile pool in Bidwell Park. As development in the rural foothill and'
mountain areas of the county where public sewer systems are not available continues,
many of the best sites for septic systems have now been utilized. Care must be given to
ensure that new development does not pose health problems or cause water quality
impacts. When alternative wastewater systems or package treatment plants are proposed
in place of conventional septic systems, financial and technical assurances are needed
that long term operational reliability and maintenance requirements will be provided for.
Attention also needs to be directed to the siting and regulation of`new commercial and
industrial uses that utilize materials posing potential sources of water contamination. Such .
uses need to be located at safe distances from water bodies, flood plains, and
groundwater recharge areas.
Urban storm water runoff can also be a significant source of pollution to surface and
groundwater resources, as accumulated pollutants are flushed from streets and other
impervious surfaces. Oils which can contain metal and volatile hydrocarbons are one of
the most common such pollutants picked up by storm water, but many other harmful
substances and chemicals are present on the land's surface and pose potential threats to.
water quality.
Watershed Management
Water resources within the County are best visualized as part of an interconnected
hydrologic system. Activities within any part of the system can affect both water supply
and water quality within both the immediate area, and also in more distant areas. A
comprehensive "watershed" approach to managing water resources is needed in which
land use decisions are considered in light of their effects on the hydrologic system.
The mountain and foothill areas of the county serve as a portion of the watershed
providing water supply for the valley floor where water demands are greatest. It is of
obvious concern to water users in the valley, that activities within the watershed not
adversely affect the supply or quality of water. Similarly, the Paradise area is vitally
concerned that the watersheds providing water to Paradise and Magalia Reservoirs be
protected from excessive development or land use activities that could adversely affect the
water supply. The Concow Lake watershed also serves as an important water supply.
Mining activities above Philbrook Lake have, in the past, caused siltation problems at the
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-4
• CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■�
lake with adverse impacts to this recreational resource. Logging and mining activities,
because of their scale, pose clear risks to the integrity of watersheds when not properly
planned and managed. Overgrazing, although less obvious, can also adversely affect
watersheds. The County also needs to be concerned about the effects of activities in the
watersheds lying outside the county but which are the source of water within the-county.
Among such activities are logging within the adjacent counties to the east and north and
within Plumas and Lassen National Forests. Urban and industrial development in
watersheds increase the potential for pollutants in surface and groundwater and
diminishes the potential for recharge. The ramifications of all activities and development
in the watershed areas need to be reviewed and where appropriate, managed to provide
protection of critical water resources.
-Coordination of Public and Private Activities
The delivery, conveyance, transmission, and distribution of water supplies by a number
of agricultural water purveying entities, some other public and private water agencies and
individual landowners and water users is a primary means for producing agricultural
products and making these commodities available outside of Butte County. This makes
Butte County's agricultural area one of the significant producing areas in the State of
California. Decisions made regarding the conveyance, distribution and use of water both
municipal, domestic, industrial and agricultural in Butte County are significant and in most
cases are made by Boards of Directors governing local irrigation and water agencies
existing within Butte County. Additionally, the recent development and operation of the
Butte Basin Water Users Association assists in the coordination of public and private
groundwater supplies by fostering and encouraging communication and cooperation
amongst all entities existing within that Association. Water users within Butte County are
also affected by decisions in other, out of County jurisdictions. As the primary, multi-
purpose governmental agency in the area, Butte County can act and sponsor educational
forums regarding the acquisition, conveyance, delivery and use of agricultural, municipal,
industrial and domestic water supplies and can provide leadership to the coordination of
the use of water resources.
GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS
I
Surface and Groundwater Supply
Goal 9
Ensure the conservation of water resources for use within Butte County.
Policies
1.1 Consider all water resources historically developed and used within the County to
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-5
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■
I
be essential to the County's future and the well-being of its citizens and the natural
environment. Take steps, within the County's power, to regulate water resources
as appropriate.
1.2 Retain for reasonable, beneficial use within the County, sufficient waters found
within Butte County in order to meet the needs of the* natural and-fiuman --
environment and to provide for long-term growth envisioned by the General Plan
including the needs of the incorporated and unincorporated communities.
1.3 Provide a leadership and/or supporting role in establishing and implementing
policies which guide the beneficial use of water resources within Butte County
overlying the Butte Basin. In cooperation with other public and private water
agencies and landowners/water users, develop a county-wide Water Management
Plan and water budget to the extent feasible, which addresses both surface and
groundwater resources, sufficient to ensure that all current and future beneficial
uses of water within the County are met to the maximum extent possible.
1.4 Oppose any public or private plans which adversely impact existing Butte County
hydrology which would cause groundwater extraction exceeding the safe yield
and/or create a condition of groundwater basin overdraft until a comprehensive
county-wide Water Management Plan has been prepared and approved by Butte
County, following broad public input by all interested parties.
1.5 Manage groundwater resources so that extractions do not exceed the safe annual
yield of the aquifer within the County.
1.6 Coordinate and work with water agencies to promote increased understanding and
support for careful stewardship of Butte County's water resources.
1.7 Develop and promote a broad public knowledge of existing surface water
resources, groundwater resources, and the total existing demands of the full range
of water uses within the County.
1.8 Support the preparation of coordinated 3030 Groundwater Management Plans by
all eligible water purveyors within the Butte Basin.
1.9 Support water reclamation projects which increase usage of existing water
resources and support development of additional water supplies that do not have
adverse unmitigatable environmental impacts.
1.10 Retain the capacity and function of groundwater recharge sites shown on Figure
CON Enhance recharge capacity by protecting the natural recharge sites.
Programs
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-6
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■ is
1.1 In cooperation with public and private agencies, organizations, and groups that
have an interest in water resources management in the County or surrounding
areas prepare, adopt, and implement a comprehensive county-wide Water
Management Plan to ensure the long-term protection, use, and maintenance of
surface and groundwater resources and the natural environment dependant on _
water. The Plan shall include, but not be limited to the following components and
shall be reviewed and updated at least every two years:
■ An inventory of water supply sources, quantity, quality, and
projected long range demands for water to support human activities
and environmental and ecological requirements.
■ An accessible, comprehensive, and regularly updated database.
■ Description of water management and regulatory policies, programs,
and standards of the various agencies and organizations with an
interest in water resources management in the County and their
plans and programs.
■ Identification, documentation, and prioritization of the County's most
significant water management problems and alternative responses.
■ Use of the best available water resources management
principles, including water conservation techniques for urban
and agriculturalactivities, non-point source pollution control,
waste disposal monitoring and controls, groundwater recharge,
aquifer protection, watershed planning, habitat and ecological
protection, and flood control.
■ Integration of water management concepts and.proposals with other
County plans and policies addressing land use, habitat and species
protection, flood control, agricultural, and community development
needs.
■ Effective funding mechanisms.
1.2 Support preparation of 3030 groundwater management plans by all water purveyors
within the Butte Basin, and encourage overall coordination of these plans with
County objectives for management of groundwater resources within the county.
1.3 Recommend formal recognition by the California Department of Water Resources
of water requirements for full County development in accordance with the Butte
County General Plan, comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan, and
the principle of "area of origin" rights. Secure binding agreements with the State
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-7
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■ •
that such water resources shall be reserved for usage within the County as local,
agricultural, environmental and development needs dictate, in accordance with
"area of origin" principles. If necessary, initiate and pursue special state legislation
ensure this water reservation is formally made.
• 1.4 Support public education concerning conservation benefits of water saving devices-and practices including low flow water fixtures, gray water re-use systems, low
demand xeriscape landscaping, and drip irrigation.
1.5 Encourage water conservation by all water users and support of public and private
entities in their,efforts to provide information about water saving irrigation methods
and related water conservation practices.
1.6 Encourage the use of treated wastewater for agricultural uses, or aquaculture in
a manner that is economic and beneficial to these users. Encourage use of treated
waste water for recreational facilities and environmental purposes.
Water Quality
Goal 2
Ensure surface and ground water quality, vital to public.and environmental health and
continued commercial, industrial and agricultural activity is maintained at-acceptable
levels.
Policies
2.1 Promote broad public understanding and support for the protection of water quality
and support the activities of other public agencies charged with ensuring water
quality standards are met for all waters originating in or passing through Butte
County.
2.2 Incorporate the "best available"water quality protection measures including storm
water runoff control into the'review and approval of new development projects.
2.3 Utilize policies and programs set forth under sections of the Conservation Element
relating to Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat as a means of minimizing site conflicts with
protection of water resources and as a means of reducing erosion potential.
2.4 Incorporate watershed protection concepts into land use planning within the .
County, at both the master plan and site plan`level.
2.5 Avoid approving or siting land use activities with significant potential for pollution
or contamination of surface or groundwater, in locations that could adversely affect
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-8
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■
these water resources. Maintain such uses well away from known groundwater
recharge sites.
2.6 Direct urban density residential projects to urban areas where approved community
water systems and other necessary facilities are available, or--ensure-that when
_...--...-..........._..-----.._. _..__._._..
such projects are located in the outlying areas of the County, that approved
community water systems, sewage treatment facilities and storm drainage will be
provided by the developer.
2.7 Ensure that waste water discharges into surface waters conform with guidelines set
forth in the most recent version of the Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region
5 Basin Plan - Water Quality Control Plan Report.
2.8 Cooperate with other agencies in taking prompt and effective action to avert or
respond to water contamination incidents.
2.9 Encourage and support wastewater reclamation programs.
Programs
2.1 Apply appropriate performance standards and best management practices to new
development in watershed areas.
2.2 Work with public water purveyors and local citizens groups to establish watershed
protection zones where public-water supply systems are located and create land
use and development regulations tailored to each unique watershed.
2.3 Continue to work with the Regional Water Quality Control Board on controlling
• waste water discharge from development projects.
2.4 Work with the Regional Water Quality Control Board to ensure compliance with the
Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 5 Basin Plan - Water Quality Control
Plan Report.
2.5 Work with public water purveyors and other water agencies to promote an
increased level of public understanding regarding water quality.
2.6 Develop a program to accurately document the locations and other relevant data
for all new, existing, and abandoned wells in the County. Require such information
as part of the application for discretionary permits, building permits and other land
use approvals.
2..7 Coordinate and cooperate with all interested parties in maintaining a water well .
ordinance which provides for the public health, safety and welfare of Butte County
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-9
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■•
domestic, municipal and industrial groundwater well users and suppliers. The
extent of regulations set forth in a well ordinance should be regularly evaluated to
insure the safe yield and prohibit groundwater overdraft of a portion of the Butte
Basin aquifer underlying Butte County. Such evaluation should consider adopted
3030 plans by local public and/or private water purveying agencies:-
Watershed
gencies._Watershed Management
Goal 3
Maintain watersheds within the county in healthy, ecologically functional condition in order
to ensure long term water availability, water quality, and aesthetic and environmental
amenities.
Policies
3.1 Incorporate sound watershed management principles in land use planning at the
Comprehensive Plan level and in community, neighborhood and specific plans.
Integrate watershed management principals into the development regulation
process.
3.2 Encourage land management and development activities, including logging and
silviculture methods, and site preparation for residential and commercial projects
which retain maximum feasible vegetative ground cover in order to minimize soils
disturbance.
3.3 Address and mitigate the adverse impact of fires on water quality by encouraging
private and public landowners in watershed areas to implement vegetation and fuel
load management.
3.4 For areas of the County dependent upon localized groundwater, surface water
supplies or a mixture of both, establish land use plans and residential, commercial
or industrial development standards that will coordinate long-term growth without
taxing or encroaching upon the existing water supplies which are of reasonable and
beneficial use.
. 3.5 Continue the special protection given to the Firhaven Creek, Paradise and Magalia
Reservoir Watershed Protection Zone, and periodically review the relationship
between development taking place in that watershed and the controls established
for the area. Update and improve upon these regulations where warranted.
3.6 In cooperation with local citizens, establish development performance standards,
road improvement standards and other pertinent standards for identified individual
P
watershed areas of public concern. To the extent possible, develop any such
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-10
I
- ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■ .
controls in conjunction and coordination with community plans for the area.
Programs
3.1 Support other public agencies and citizen based organizations in management
activities for stream corridors or other water bodies.
3.2 Advocate improvements in federal, state and local regulations that are intended to .
increase protection of watersheds and water quality.
3.3 Work with land owners to reduce the adverse impacts of their activities and to
protect watershed values and functional capacity.
3.4 Evaluate existing heavily used unpaved public access roads in the mountain areas
that experience significant soils erosion. Harden the surfaces near recreational
areas adjoining streams and water bodies in the County in order to minimize soil
erosion and stream sedimentation.
3.5 Support public education for watershed management.
Coordination of Public and Private Activities
Goal 4
Achieve a high level of coordination and consistency between the plans and management
activities of public and private agencies involved in water resources within Butte County.
Policies
4.1 Assume an active leadership role in bringing together other agencies and citizen
organizations in joint planning and coordination of water management activities.
4.2 Give consideration to the effects of development decisions on the water resources
of other agencies and individuals, actively seek input and guidance of other
agencies and water users before making such decisions, and in general seek to
be a "good partner" in the water management area.
4.3 Following its development, encourage adoption, support suggested
recommendations for alteration and approval in a consensus building format of the.
comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan for all public and private
water purveying agencies wholly or partially located within Butte County, and utilize
the plan as a primary basis for decisions about water resources following
submission, review and comment by all interested parties. "
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-11
• ■ CONSERVATION ELEMENT ■
4.4 Support and assist other private and/or public water purveying agencies or entities
in their activities which are in compliance with the comprehensive county-wide'
Water Management Plan and oppose activities not in compliance.
Programs
4.1 Utilize the process of developing a county-wide comprehensive Water Management
Plan as the mechanism for building mutual support, trust and participation by all the
entities responsible for management of water resources within the County.
4.2 Designate an appropriate entity, such as Butte Basin Water Users Association
combined with other diverse county interests in water use,acquisition, transmission,
conveyance, distribution and delivery to take the lead in initiating a public process
for development of a county-wide_comprehensive Water Management Plan.
4.3 Maintain an active and cooperative relationship with agencies such as the Butte
Basin Water Users Association, support their efforts to manage groundwater, and
support local districts' 3030 groundwater planning activities.
'4.4 Develop and utilize other methods and programs to enhance mutual cooperation
and coordination among water interests within the County.
4.5 Encourage education of the public about the objectives and value of the
comprehensive county-wide Water Management Plan.
■ BUTTE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ■ OCTOBER 1, 1996
CON-12
i
s
Utility Service Providers
Unincorporated Butte County
Locality Water Sewer Drainage
Biggs area City of Biggs City of Biggs Reclamation District 833
Chico area California Water Service City of Chico CSA 22(N.V.P.Mall&
Co.(Chico urban area) Skansen Sub. (CSA.21) N.Chico)
Green Acres(Glenwood CSA 41 (NW Chico)
Dr. -Chico) CSA 47(NW Chico)
Mulberry Water(SE Chico) CSA 23(NE Chico)
Gran Mutual(Skansen CSA 24(N.half of Chico
Subdivision) area)
Butte Creek Estates CSA 25(N. Chico-Shasta
Union)
Gridley area City of Gridley City of Gridley Drainage District 1 (E.
Gridley Farm Labor Camp Gridley)
Reclamation District 833
(W. Gridley)
Oroville area Oroville-Wyandotte City of Oroville CSA 51 (S. Oroville)
Irrigation(Oroville foothills N.Burbank Pub.Utility
&Kelly Ridge) Dist.(S.Oroville&Kelly
California Water Service Ridge)
Co.(part of Oroville area) Thermalito Irrigation
Thermalito Irrigation District(CSA 26)
District
Paradise area Del Oro Water Co. CSA 38
(Paradise Pines) CSA 4(Paradise Pines)
Paradise Irrigation District
Utility Service Providers
Unincorporated Butte County
Locality Water Sewer Drainage
Bangor
Butte Meadows
Clipper Mills Merry Mtn.Mutual
Cohasset
Dayton
Durham Durham Irrigation District
Durham Mutual Water Co.
Vista Mutual
Forbstown
Forest Ranch Forest Ranch Mutual
Northwoods Mutual
Honcut
Magalia Magalia Co.Water District
Nelson Drainage District 2(W.
Nelson)
Nord
Palermo Oroville-Wyandotte
Irrigation Dist.
Richvale Richvale Sanitary District Drainage District 100
Drainage District 200(E.
Richvale)
Stirling City Stirling City(Diamond
International)
Water
Berry Creek Water Company
Bloomer Mountain Mutual Water Co.
Brush Creek(U.S.F.S.
De Sabla(P G&E)
Lake Madrone Water District
12.3. COMMUNITY WATER SYSTEMS
Overview of Existing Public Water Systems: This section reviews public water systems and
irrigation districts in Butte County. They are as follows:
0 City of Biggs
. ❑ Cal Water Service Company(Chico)
❑ Cal Water Service Company(Oroville)
❑ Del Oro Water Company(Lime Saddle)
0 Del Oro Water Company(Paradise Pines)
❑ Del Oro Water Company(Stirling City) '
0 Western Canal
❑ Richvale Irrigation District 1 '
J
0 Table Mountain Irrigation District
❑ Buzztail Community Service District
❑ Berry Creek Community Service District
❑ Biggs-West Gridley Water District
❑ Butte Water
0 Lake Madrone Water
❑ Durham Irrigation District
0 City of Gridley
❑ Oroville Wyandotte Irrigation District (Bangor) .
❑ Oroville Wyandotte Irrigation District (Miners Ranch)
❑ Paradise Irrigation District "
D Thermalito Irrigation District
The following tables represent the best information available at the time(August 1995).
Of the first eleven systems reviewed (see Table PF- 1), six are supplied by surface sources and
five are pumping groundwater from wells. These eleven systems served 159,160 County residents
and delivered over 14 million gallons of water to the residential, commercial, industrial, and
agricultural users in 1990.
A total of 25.74 million gallons of storage capacity is currently available to the 11 distributing
systems and chlorination is the primary method of disinfection for both groundwater and surface `
water systems Table PF- 2 lists individual system summaries for these first eleven systems,
providing additional detailed information on each of the systems.
:::::<:::< ....:::»:::<:::<::.TA LE.PE...Z.................. ................ .
.:::.::.;:.::.;::..:::.;:.;:.::.;:. T MS.SI�MMA .Y..
But &R
tY.;:.;;:.;:.;;:.;:.;:.::::.:::<.;;;:.::.::.::.::.::::.: .
Water Purveyor Resident 1990 Source(s)of Treatment Practices/and Storage
Population Delivery Water Capacities Available
(1990) (1,000,000) (1,000,000)
Cal Water Service-Chico 77,500 7,679.10 60 active deep A few selected wells are 1.35
wells chlorinated
Cal Water Service Company-Oroville 11,300 120.60 4-wells,west Full treatment of surface 2.50
branch of water/6300 gpm/fluoridation of
Feather River, wells
Wilenor
Reservoir
City of Biggs 1,603 212.00 2-wells Chlorination 0.04
City of Gridley 4,631 504.97 4-deep wells Fluoridate all wells and 0.30
chlorinate two
Del Oro Water Company-Lime Saddle 706 36.74 Stirling Bluffs Chlorination/soon full treatment 0.22
inner at a treatment plant
connect/soon
Lake Oroville
Del Oro Water Company-Paradise Pines 9,189 429.90 5-wells None 1.24
Durham Irrigation District 1,200 unknown 4-wells None 0.03
Oroville-Wyandotte Irrigation District 67 9.80 Miners Ranch Full treatment at treatment 0.06
(Bangor) Reservoir plant/100 gpm
Oroville-Wyandotte Irrigation District 19,474 1,817.01 Miners Ranch Full treatment at treatment 6.50
(Miners Ranch) Reservoir plant/12 MGD
Paradise Irrigation District 26,000 2,722.32 Little Butte Full treatment at treatment 9.50
Creek plant/6 MGD
Thermalito Irrigation District 7,490 808.00 Concow Dam Treatment Plant and well 3.50
releases and chlorination/4.0 MGD
six back-up
wells
Sources:DOHS file information,DOHS staff interviews,County staff interviews and files,system managers and operators,August,1995.
12.4 PUBLIC WASTEWATER SYSTEMS
This section focuses on the nine community collection, treatment, and disposal systems in both
rural and urban areas and gives an indication of the condition of Butte County's wastewater
infrastructure.
❑ Butte County Service Area No. 82 - Stirling City
❑ Butte County Service Area No. 21 - Skansen Subdivision
0 City of Biggs Wastewater Treatment Facility
❑ City of Chico Main Treatment Plant
❑ _ City of Chico Airport Treatment Plant
❑ City of Gridley Wastewater Treatment Plant
❑ Sewerage Commission- Oroville Region
❑ Lake Oroville Area Public Utility District
-❑ Richardson Springs Community Service District
Chart PF- 1 indicates the distribution of methodologies currently employed. This figure is based
upon 1980 census data which was the most recent available for this classification. The
distribution of public sewered systems verses individual or small systems is about equally shared
on a County wide population basis.
These major process types are activated sludge, community septic tank, stabilization pond, and
aerated lagoon treatment systems. Table PF- 3 shows the treatment processes.
TAB: 3 < <>< .........................................<> ' '>` > < > <'
LE.PF. .
.....:......:::::::::::.:.:. .
MMUNTY WA„'I' WATER TREATMENT METHODS B..:.:.CONI1U .. . ..>.
Community Treatment Method Treatment Disposal Permitted
Level Method Capacity (mgd)
(mom)
Stirling City Septic Tank DO>1.0 Evaporation Ponds 0.05
Skansen Subdivision Lagoon DO>1.0 Evaporation Ponds 0.01
City of Biggs Aerated Lagoons 30 BOD/45 TSS* Surface Discharge 0.37
City of Chico Regional .Activated Sludge 30 BOD/30 TSS* Surface Discharge 6.0
Chico of Chico Airport Oxidation Ponds DO>1.0 Evaporation Ponds 0.08
City of Gridley Aerated Ponds DO>1.0 Percolation Ponds 1.05
SC-OR(City of Oroville, Activated Sludge 20 BOD/20 TSS* Surface Discharge 6.5
Thermalito,LOAPUD)
Richardson Springs Chlorinated chamber — Ponds/Spray .01
Irrigation
Richvale Sanitary District none — Evaporation Ponds .03
Notes:*=30-day Average;Permitted discharge flow is 30-day average dry weather flow.
Source:Stephen Hackney,Planning Department,personal communications with appropriate Jurisdiction.
A recent interview with RWQCB staff outlined regulatory agency perspectives on deficiencies and
improvement needs for the seven community wastewater systems reviewed. The following
descriptions 'outline the RWQCB concerns and/or comments for the various systems.
Stirling City (County Service Area No. 82): No problems known or improvements pending at
this time. Adequate capacity presently exists. Groundwater monitoring program not required at
this time.
Skansen Subdivision (County Service Area 21): Within the next few years the RWQCB may
require groundwater monitoring wells. Future hook-up of homes may require a recirculating sand
filter with disposal to the existing ponds.
City of Biggs: Inadequate chlorination/dechlorination system (no dechlorination, inadequate plug
flow residence time). Currently in violation of discharge requirements for dechlorination. History
of I & I difficulties in collection system warrants improvements(waiting for funding). Flow
_recording improvements necessary.
:.
LA.:;:::»>.ED .. . TE. :><:::<:>>::>: MENTS> >> >''< .
Nhl UM11JTYWAS WATER. Y TF�11IlVI 'ROVE
.................
Community Planned, Required or Proposed Improvement(s)
Stirling City No improvements Planned
Skansen Subdivision Possible connection to Chico Regional WWTP.
City of Biggs Collection system Dechlorination. composting facility.
City of Chico Regional On-going collection remediation. WWTP expansion
City of Chico Airport Abandonment and connection to Chico Regional WWTP.
City of Gridley Repair house laterals. Additional aeration pond
Oroville SC-OR Manhole repairs. Pump stations. Future WWTP expansion.
Source:Owners,operator and regulatory agencies.
City of Chico Regional: Currently under expansion to 6.0 mgd which should help the hydraulic
loading problems caused by the seasonal flux of the student population. Possible future repair of
the Sacramento River outfall. Potential for expansion to 8.0 mgd in the future. RWQCB will
consider a Cease and Desist Order if plant expansion does not result in effluent quality which
meets WDR's. Industrial/commercial pre-treatment program needs to be fully implemented.
i City of Chico Airport: Recent groundwater monitoring for nitrate. Planned hook-up to Chico
Regional WWTP by 1992 will require a plan for closure and abandonment of the airport WWTP
system.
City of.Gridley: Approaching permitted capacity due to recent development. Possible flood
problems, river may have flooded percolation ponds in 1986 winter rains. RWQCB likely to
request report of waste discharge soon and this will likely lead to improvements in capacity and
new WDR's. Pump station may be reaching capacity also. Adequate room for expansion.
Adequate treatment record in past.
Oroville (Sewage Commission Oroville Region): Treatment plant capacity remaining is
adequate. Continual improvement to industrial pretreatment program is,necessary. Some minor
past coliform violations in'plant effluent.
Potential impacts of the planned, proposed or required community wastewater system
improvements are dependent on the time frame for implementation and the relationship to growth
or community changes. All of the seven systems reviewed are either close to or within the
regulatory agency requirements
In addition to the seven community systems reviewed, it should be noted that the Town of
Paradise is actively pursuing installation of community wastewater facilities. Over the past
decade, several wastewater facilities plans have been prepared, each meeting with limited local
acceptance. The Town has recently formed an assessment district to provide funding, and has
selected consultants to revise existing plans and design wastewater collection, treatment and
disposal facilities. The Town of Paradise is one of the largest developed communities in the state
still served exclusively by individual on-site wastewater systems.
12.5 ON-SITE SEWAGE SYSTEMS
On-site sewage systems in Butte County, as with other counties in California, typically serve rural
or low population density areas. Due to the potential impacts on public health, and surface and
groundwater quality, on-site sewage systems require certain soil conditions, setbacks from
drinking water sources, and minimalusable land area for a given service population. The
adequacy of existing and future on-site sewage systems in Butte County is a significant issue
affecting increased development and population density for the outlying rural areas.
Outlying rural areas of the county face specific difficulties with the treatment of wastewater
generated within their individual areas. Due to their relative isolation, generally small population,
and low density, unsewered rural communities'usually cannot afford the construction and
operations costs associated with community wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal
facilities. Rural communities and individual residences, therefore, typically rely upon on-site
sewage systems for wastewater management.
On-Site Sewage Systems and Designs: Wastewater that is treated by on-site sewage systems
can be produced by individual residences, public facilities and commercial or industrial
establishments. Wastewater to be treated can be grey water(from sinks, showers, etc.), black
water(wastewater from toilets), or a combination of both. Most on-site systems in Butte County
are combination systems.
On-site sewage disposal systems can be considered as "standard" or "alternative" in design. A
typical or "standard" on-site sewage disposal system consists of a septic tank, generally placed
just outside the residence or commercial building being served, and a gravity-fed network of
perforated pipelines placed in the soils of the area chosen for the leachfield(disposal field). Of
primary importance to proper operation of on-site sewage systems is the ability of the soils
containing the leachfield to offer proper treatment of the septic tank effluent prior to contact with
groundwater.
Solids, greases, and scum are by design trapped in the septic tank and removed (typically every
few years) from the tank by a septage hauler using a pumper truck. This septage must be hauled
to a disposal site, where further treatment precedes ultimate disposal. Handling of septage has
become a financial and ecological problem for many California counties. Final septage disposal
can be to land by tilling or spraying, evaporation of liquid portions to increase the solids content
with burial of the solids in permitted facilities (usually landfills), further treatment at an existing
community wastewater treatment facility or other sound technical and permitted means.
Other non-typical or "alternative" on-site wastewater treatment and disposal systems include the
mound systems, fill systems, shallow-trench, sand-filled pressure dosing systems, Imhoff tanks,
intermittent sand filters, land treatment and recirculating granular medium filters. Some on-site
systems may make use of"packaged" treatment plants or other "custom designed" treatment
systems which increases the effluent quality. Higher quality effluent (secondary treatment level or
higher) may be permitted by the regulatory agencies for surface discharge(in approved
watersheds), spray field disposal or other alternative disposal method.
Design and installation of on-site sewage systems must be in accordance with the regulatory
mandate of the applicable Federal, State and County codes. Federal guidelines for proper design
and installation fall under the jurisdiction of the USEPA. State regulations are developed and
enforced by the Regional Water Quality Control Board. County codes for the proper design and
installation of on-site systems fall under the jurisdiction of the County Environmental Health
Department. Contractors, developers and individuals must follow the Standards of Construction
for on-site sewage systems as adopted by the County Board of Supervisors. All installations
within the County must be approved for design and construction by the County Environmental
Health Department which inspects and permits each system on an individual basis.
Existing County on Site Sewage System Regulations: Current minimum standards for
construction of on-site sewage systems in Butte County are included in Chapter 19 of the Butte
County Code, Moratoria and supplements. Although specific to Butte County these codes are in
general conformance with the minimum Federal and State standards
Usable lot or parcel area criteria, setback requirements, groundwater proximity and soils
suitability are also applicable to installation of approved systems in the County. Usable lot area
means the area of a lot or parcel actually useable for the installation of a complete on-site sewage
system. This definition restricts areas of a given parcel to not include building setbacks,
easements, property setbacks, certain paved areas, areas where the percolation value is above 120
min/in, areas with a slope greater than 30 percent, areas with seasonal high groundwater and areas
with shallow soils. These usable lot area criteria and other pertinent design standards are outlined
in detail in the Butte County Code, Chapter 19.
Outlying properties which are being considered for development and which must be either
temporarily or permanently served by on-site wastewater systems should be carefully evaluated
for their ability to support such systems. The Butte County Department of Public Health,
Division of Environmental Health, has recently implemented changes to its past methodology of
issuing sanitation clearances. Two copies of the proposed plot plan and one copy of the floor
plan must be submitted to the Health Department for review. If the system design meets the
requirements of the Department, the plans and a sanitation clearance is sent on to the Building
Department for further approvals.
This new procedure also affects properties where additions to an existing structure, a new
building is constructed, or changes which will affect the quantity or quality of the wastewater sent
to an existing system are made.
Support information designed to assist contractors, septic system installers, design engineers,
sanitarians and other interested parties is available from the County Department of Public Health
and the RWQCB.
Existing on Site Sewage Conditions: Figure PF- 1 indicates the present conditions and
characteristics of identified on-site sewage disposal suitability zones in Butte County. -This figure
was developed primarily with the assistance and direction of County Environmental Health Area
Sanitarians which were most familiar with the general conditions of their particular jurisdiction.
The figure shows in particular the presently identified poor as well as good suitability zones in the
County sphere: Since on-site system suitability is most often related to the site specific soils and
groundwater conditions this figure reflects suitability using these primary factors. Other
additional design and site specific factors such as slope, etc., are not covered in this analysis.
In general the low lying "valley" areas are not very conducive to on-site sewage disposal systems
due to naturally elevated groundwater conditions which may cause saturated soils and lead to
effluent surfacing and a potential for human health hazard. Aquifers of good quality water which
exist near the surface, while not conducive for onsite sewage disposal, are beneficial to the
agricultural community. Groundwater pumping for agricultural irrigation and recent rends toward
groundwater mining to supply the State Water Bank may in time impact the historic groundwater
elevations significantly enough to sufficiently document in the valley areas. At this time it is
anticipated that no new permits for construction of on-site systems in the valley area will be
issued. Although some portions of the valley area may accommodate on-site system, current
planning thought is to limit wastewater management to community systems. Soils types in the
valley area include thick-bedded deposits of silt and clay, mixed alluvial deposits, areas of layered
sands, silts and clays as well as moderately-to-strongly cemented gavel deposits.
What is described as the "Foothill" area and delineated as such in Figure PF- 1 is typically
considered as having adequate soils conditions to support the use of on-site sewage disposal
systems for wastewater management.
Soils within the foothill area include well bedded clay and volcanic sand with thin zones of sand
and gravel, well-bedded clay and volcanic sand with interbeds of tuff-breccia, and basalt, granitic
and metamorphic rocks. Foothill areas typically have 0 to 6 inches of topsoil with underlying
diggable soils. On-site sewage disposal systems are approved on an individual basis and typically
use a shallow long trench design.
The "Mountain Areas" have generally deep soils that are conducive to on-site wastewater disposal
systems. Typical percolation rates in the Mountain Areas are 20 to 30 minutes per inch. Current
County policy maintains the likelihood that these systems will continue to meet the necessary
requirements of proper treatment and, therefore, permits are likely to be issued until density or
other factors deny issuance.
All areas of the County share differences in the geology, geography, meteorology and hydrology
and therefore the principals and policies offered as guidelines for the development of on-site
wastewater treatment systems must be evaluated against the given parcel on an individual basis.
The delineated areas on Figure PF- 1 do not necessarily represent exact boundaries or definite
soils conditions in every microspheric region of the County.
Planned, Proposed, and Required Future Changes and Potential Impacts: Certain areas of
Butte County are limited or not available for use of on-site system. The Town of Paradise as well
as other urban county areas (cities) have sewage ordinances which strictly outline comprehensive
density and installation guidelines for on-site systems. The Paradise Pines area, on the other hand,
has no sewage restriction and is probably one of the most dense areas in the county. Other
regulatory mandates include the use of"Watershed Protection Zones" to limit the failure of septic
systems in watersheds which serve as drinking water sources.
With regard to protection of groundwater quality, it is important to understand the relationship
between available treatment by the soils and contamination of groundwater resources by nitrates
or other pollutants associated with on-site sewage disposal systems.
For instance, the Paradise area may be a future problem area for groundwater contamination due
to the density of septic systems and the corresponding lack of useable area for installation of
back-up or expansion systems in the event of existing system failure or additional wastewater
generation.
The Palermo pollution study was an eight-month investigative effort to determine the extent of
groundwater and surface water contamination due to the inadequacies of the existing on-site
sewage disposal systems in the area. The recommendation of the study was to design and
construct a community collection system and hook-up to the Lake Oroville Area Public Utility
District (LOAPUD)with treatment to occur at the SCOR facilities in Oroville. This is one
example of the potential difficulties which can arise form high density reliance on septic systems.
The potential for this problem is pronounced in other high density areas of the county.
Another existing condition for Butte County that may pose a future difficulty is the planned
abandonment of the unlined septage ponds located at the Neal Road Landfill. These ponds are
used to dispose of the septage hauled by the local septic system pumpers. Current regulatory
mandate requires the County to replace the unlined ponds with a new lined impoundment system.
This will minimize future potential contributory groundwater contamination in the landfill area
due to the leaching of septage contaminates. these replacement facilities are required to ensure
long-term septage management in Butte County.
Existing on Site Sewage_Systems Appraisal Summary: Although somewhat unique in its soils
conditions over the entire County range, regulation and permitting processes for on-site sewage
system sin Butte County is similar to other rural counties in the state. In reality, not much viable
information is known on the general condition and functional status of the existing on-site systems
currently in use in Butte County. Implementation of a County-wide system for determining the
status of the operational systems in the County may be warranted. In addition to the functional
status information, other areas of the County may be due for their own pollution studies once
these areas are identified by County staff., This information could prove vital in determining the
future use of differing soils types and system designs. As with other rural Counties in the State,
the Butte County Department of Public Health lacks adequate staffing and manpower which limits
the County's ability to make these sorts of determinations.
Minimum parcel sizes required to meet proper setbacks, groundwater protection, and retention of
adequate usable lot area for system expansion or repair due to failure requirements must be
maintained in the interest of public health. If, due to a potential for health related impacts, a
moratorium on septic system construction or land development for a given area must be imposed,
the County must direct that a moratorium is in effect until the situation is rectified.
t