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Home My WebLink About14-022l SAI '' iiii, 71 WHEREAS, the development of a Butte County Climate Action Plan (Butte CAP) is directed by the Butte County General Plan Conservation and Open Space Element Action COS -A1.1; aind, WHEREAS, Conservation and Open Space Element Action COS -A1.1 is also, identified under Generall Plan 2030i aind the General Plan 2030 Finial EIR as required as a means to mitigate environmental impacts under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); aind, WHEREAS, the purpose of thie Butte, CAP is an implementation mechanism of the County's Generall Pil adopted in 2010 and amended in 2012, providing goals, policies, and programs to reduce greenhou gas ii emissions, address climate change adaptation, anid improve qualiity of liife in the county, T ff 0-i Avl Senate Bill 1 375. Programs and actions in resources, grow efficiently, ensure long-term climate, and improve transportation. The Butte serve as a Qualified Gl Reduction Strategy under the California Environmental Quality Act (CE simplifying developmient review for new projects that are consistent with the CAP. Ultimately, t to address climate chargeand protect the local quality of i and, WHEREAS, the Butte CAP supports or directly implements numerous General Plan goalis, policies, and actions as identified under Appendix A, T,ab;le A-1 of the Butte CAP; and, WHEREAS, General Pilan 2030 policies and' actions provide a comprehensive framework for reci Gl emissions in the County. In: particular, the ButCAP requ:irements under Action COS -A1.1 wouild assist California in meeting the reduction goalls for the year 2020 thait are embodied in the Globall Warming Solutions, Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill 32), and would; ensure that GHG emissions in Butte County would not contribute considerabily to cumulative GHG emissions and associated climate change effects; and, WHEREAS, the Butte CAP, in combination with other existing policies and regulations by other agencies and business sectors of the economy, would reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the County to a level that would comply with State guliclellines; and, WHEREAS, a Sustainability Report prepared by County staff and reviewed by the Board of Supervisors on August 14, 2012, recognized the importance of the preparation of the Butte CAP to address climate change and energy efficiency; and, WHEREAS, the development of the Butte CAP included an extensive public outreach program, including: a) ButteCAP.net website b) Stakeholder Group meeting with the Butte County Farm Bureau c) May 14, 2013 Public Workshop d) August 22-25, 2013, Butte County Fair Booth; and, WHEREAS, the Draft Butte CAP was made publicly available during a 30 day public review period from October 17, 2013 through November 18, 2013, online at buttecap.net, at all Butte County Branch Libraries, and at the Development Services office to allow for public review and comment prior to the Board of Supervisors' hearing, and, WHEREAS, a separate Butte CAP Work Plan has been completed that sets forth for each emission reduction measure and adaptation measure contained under the Butte CAP appropriate time frames for measure completion, lead and supportive agencies, and estimated costs, and that the Work Plan has been adopted under Resolution No. 14-023 by the Board of Supervisors to allow for revisions separately from the Butte CAP document; and, WHEREAS, a duly noticed public hearing was held by the Board of Supervisors on February 25, 2014, January 28, 2014, and by the Planning Commission on December 12, 2013; and, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the Draft CAP, CAP Work Plan and EIR Addendum; and, WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors reviewed and considered the information in the administrative record, staff report, and all oral and written testimony presented to the Board of Supervisors; and, WHEREAS, the General Plan EIR (SCH #2008092062) was certified on October 26, 2010 by the Butte County Board of Supervisors (Resolution 10-150) and the Supplemental EIR (SCH #2012022059) was certified on November 6, 2012 (Resolution 12-123); and, WHEREAS, the County has determined that the proposed Butte CAP does not meet the criteria for preparing a subsequent or supplemental EIR under CEQA Guidelines Section 15162; and, WHEREAS, an Addendum to the General Plan EIR and Supplemental EIR has therefore been prepared pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15164 for the Butte CAP; and, WHEREAS, the Addendum provides analysis and cites substantial evidence that supports the County's determination that the Butte CAP does not meet the criteria for preparing a subsequent or supplemental EIR under CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 including: 1) As addressed in the analysis contained in the Addendum, the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions - reducing measures and actions proposed in the Plan are beneficial. Implementation of the CAP would not cause any new significant impacts or substantially increase the severity of previously identified significant impacts identified in the General Plan EIR (per State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a][1]) that would require major revisions to the General Plan EIR — State Clearinghouse No. 2008092062. Additionally, the General Plan was amended in 2012 and a Supplemental EIR (SCH No. 2012072025) was prepared for the amended General Plan. All impacts associated with adoption and implementation of the Butte CAP would be equivalent to, or less than, the impacts previously analyzed in the General Pian EIR and General Plan Supplemental EIR. 2) Implementation of the proposed Butte CAP would not result in substantial changes in physical circumstances that would cause a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact, and there have been no other changes in the circumstances that meet this criterion (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a] [2]). Rather, the Butte CAP would result in beneficial actions that promote energy-efficient new development, renewable energy, reduced water and energy use, and waste reduction. There have been no changes in the environmental conditions in the unincorporated county not contemplated and analyzed in the General Plan EIR that would result in new or substantially more severe environmental impacts in association with implementation of the Butte CAP. 3) As documented in this section, there is no new information of substantial importance (which was not known or could not have been known at the time of the General Plan adoption on October 26, 2010) that shows any of the following: a) A new significant impact (Condition A under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a] [3])• b) A substantial increase in the severity of a previously identified significant impact (Condition B under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a][3]). c) Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found infeasible that would now be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the General Plan; or mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the General Plan EIR which would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment (Conditions C and D under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a][31). NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors hereby makes the following findings: 1. Notice of the Board of Supervisors hearings on the Butte CAP, DSEIR and FSEIR was given as required by law and the actions were conducted in accordance with CEQA, and the State CEQA Guidelines. 2. An EIR Addendum was prepared that provides analysis and cites substantial evidence that support's the County's determination that the Butte CAP does not meet the criteria for preparing a subsequent or supplemental EIR under CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 3. All indilviduals, groups and agencies desiring to comment were given adequate opportunity t* submit oirall and written comments on the Butte CAP and the environmental review documents - These opportunities for comment meet or exceed the requilrements, of the Planning and Zoning Law and CEQA. 1, 11111 � � � � I � � I I � � � � # � � I � I I ''I � � I F-WITAN WTfirl 5. The proposed Adoption of the Butte CAP is in the public interest, and protects the health, safety, and welfare of the County. III 1 1 � I� Ili � I � � I II III 1 111111112•� 11 � I I I ON a MMM L NO' I M. W" PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Butte County Board of Supervisors this 25th day of February, 2014 by the following vote: AYES: Supervisors Connelly, Kirk, Lambert, and Chair Teeter NOES: Supervisor Wahl ABSENT: None NOT VOTING: None J DO TEETER, Chair Butte County Board of Supervisors ATTEST: By: Paul: Ha n hief Administrative Officer and Clerk o t e Board' of Supervisors EXHIBIT A BUTTE COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN February 25, 2014 Adopted February 25,2014 ��w,pmcworldmm .......... -- --- Ascent En*onmental, Inc. ... ........... . .FR . ...... ... I "I/'//�/�'�''/"",/ c Board of Supervisors Bill Connelly, District I Larry Wahl, District 2 Maureen Kirk, Vice -Chair, District 3 Steve Lambert, District 4 Doug Teeter, Chair, District 5 Planning Commission Mary Kennedy Charles Nelson, Chair Rocky Donati, Vice -Chair Alan White Harrel Wilson Development Services Staff Tim Snelhngs, Director Pete Calarco, Assistant Director ChuickThistlethwaite, AICP, Planning Manager Nancy Springer, Building Manager Daniel Breedon, AICP, Project Manager County Departments Administration Paul Hahn, CAO Shari McCracken, Deputy Administrative Officer Agriculture Commission Richard Price, Agriculture Commissioner Water and Resource Conservation Paul Gosselin, Director Public Works Mike Crump, Director General Services Grant Hunsicker, Director Office of Emergency Management John Gulserian, Director Environmental Health Brad Banner, Director Other Agencies Air Quality Management District W. James Wagoner, Director Butte County Association of Governments Chris, Devine, Planning Manager Butte County Climate Action Plan EIN, Executive Surnmary Purpose mfthe Climate Action Plan .................................. Key Outcomes of the CAP ...... -......_._.....__..,____...... Chapte�r I- Introduction ... ES -1 Where This Plan Applies ................................... Why Butte County Developed This Plan ---------_----._--............... -........... ----- .... -....... .................... 5 How Butte County Developed This Plan! Chapter 2_Emissions in Butte County Methods and Emissions, Sources ............ —......... ..... ..... ............. _...... --_'--.-----.__.--__................... 12 Community Inventory and Government Operations ............. ---- ...... _.......... —_............. ....... ....... .................... 13 EmissionsForecasts- ................ ... ...... .............. ..... ........... ............... ..................... -..... --- ................... ............ _'-_-_-.... l6 Chapter 3_Reduction'Targets ReductionGoals .......... ...... .................... ........... ............ ----....... -...... ---........ __.................................... ................. -l9 Current Progress toGoa|s~..... _... ................................................. _............ ............ ---- .... ..... ............ _-.----..21 Chapter 4 - Strategy to Reduce Emissions Addressing the Causes mfClimate Change 27 Anticipated Emissions Reductions .......................................... --... ........... -..... .......................... ...... .......................... ........ 27 Identifying and Quantifying Reduction Measures ........ .... ............ ...... ...... ---- ..................... ...... ............ .......... -..... 29 Measures bvTopic -------- . 31 Progress toGoals, .~............ 55 tutte County Climate Action Plan ON Chapter 5—Adapting to al Changing Climate Adaptation(A)&4easure5~.......... ..... --- .......... ..................... ..... --- ... .......... ............. .................. ................... __....58 Resiliency(R)Measures ..... .......................... _.................. .......... ........ .~~~____ .................................................. ---- ....... 60 Chapter 6-- Work Plan Append~ A-- General Plan Cross Referie�nce Appendix �B_"rechnicaQReports Community Inventory ............................ ................ ~................................ --- .............. ........... 8-1 Government Operations Inventory ............................... ...................... —................ ........................ ---- ........ .......... ..... .B-] ForecastIndicators, ........................... .......... ..___............................ ._—.... .............. ............... ---- ....... ............... .—B`S State Reduction Methods Summary ......... ................................................... ---- ..... ....... ................................................. B-6 Local Accomplishments Quantification: Sources and Asounnptions—.................... ......... ................... ...... --_.... B -O Table l!JOQ8Community Inventory ......................... .............. ..... ... ............................ ............... .................... .... ..~.... --- ... .... 74 Table 2:JO86Government Operations |nnentory_~............ —..__....,.,~.................. ....... ............ --- ....... —........... ,.,15 Table 3tCommunity @usiness-as'Uaua|Emissions Forecasts ............... —.......... ..... .... _—................... --- ........................ 16 Table 4: Gooernnnemt,O penatkonsBus|ness-as-UsuaUEmissions Forecasts ........................ ......... —... __—'....... ...... 17 Table 5:Community BmiSsi000Reduction Gma1 ...................... ....................................... ........ --- 20 Table 6: Government Operations Emissions Reduction Goals ........................ ---- .............. ... ........ ................ ......... ...... 21 Table 7: Local Reduction Benefits of State Programs and Requirements nmCommunity Emissions ...... ............... .22 Table 8:Local Reduction Benefits rfState Programs and Requirements onGovernment Operations Emissions............................ ............... --- ...................... ___........... _..... ........................... ............ --- ............... ---- 23 Table 9:Accomplishments and Progress TmTarget ... .._----- ............. _..... ..... ................................... --- —...... —....... 2S Table 101: Anticipated 2020 Emissions Reductions from Climate Action Plan Measures .... 28 Table A-1: CAP Measures and Related General Plan Policies and Actions ._—.—_'—.----- ...................... .... .... Arl Table B-2: Community Baseline Inventory Emissions Coefficients. ........... .... ____ ... ....... ......... ..___—_............. B-2 Table B-3Government Operations Baseline Activity 0ata—............ --................... .......................... ................. .... ___ ... B-3 Table B~4:Government Operations Baseline Inventory Emissions Coefficients. .......... ... —... —............ ....... ....... B-4 Table, B,-5:2020and 2030 Emissions Forecast Indicators. .... —......... _.... —..... ... .......... .................. .... ........... _....... B-5 List of Figures Figure ES-1:Climate Action Plan Process .............................. ---------............. ,.......... __.—__—.—_—__'---� Figure 1:Unincorporated Butte Gnwnty'_....... ........ —.... ---........... ..................... ........... .............. -......... ......... ............. 4 Figure 2:RegmhtmryFramevvoNkfor Climate Ohamge—........ ....... —............ ............................................................ —_--..6 Figure 5: 2006 Government Operations Emissions bvSector (MTCO2e)—................ ......... ___ ... '........ _—... —__—..15 Figure tiCommunity Bmsimess-as'Usma|Emissions Forecasts by Sector (MTCO2e)........................................... ...... —.17 Figure 7: Government Operations Business -as -Usual Emissions Forecasts by Sector (MTCO,e) .... __ ...................... A8 Figure EkButte County Community Emissions Forecast and Target Gap ........................ ........ ........................................ 26 Figure 9:20JOGHGEmissions Reductions bvFocus Area (MT[{)ze)_............. .... ......... ___ ............... —............ ...... .28 Figure 11:Input for Reduction Measures ........................ ..................................................... 30 Figure 12: 202Qand 2O3QCommunity Emissions for Quantified Reductions bvMeasure (MTCOze)_...... _..... 56 Butte County Climate Action Plan ME This page intentionally left blank. 1111111 11111111 ��11 Pill 111 Abbreviation Definition . . . . . ... . ............. .... . . . ... . . A BAssembly . .. . . . . .......... Bill BCAG Butte County Association of Governments . ................ .. . .......... . .. .... BCAQMD Butte County AirQuality Management District .............. .... ... .. . ... .. . CAL FIRE California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection .................... ...... . CALGreen CaliforniaGreen Building Standards Code .......... . . . . ............... . -------- Cal OES California Governor's Office of Emergency Services CAP . . ......... .... Climate Action Plan ......... ....... CAPCOA California Air Pollution Control Officers Association CARB .. . . 1-1-11-1-11 ............. . . California Air Resources Board . . . . . . . . ................. .. . . . . CEC California Energy_Commission . . . . .......... CEQA California Environmental Quality Act . .. . ................... ..... .. . ---- ------- CH4 methane CO,carbon . ......... . . ... dioxide CO,e carbon dioxide!aquivalents .......... . . ....... . . CPUC ........... California Public Utilities Commission CS]California Solar initiative . . . . . ........ EIR environmental impact report ............ . ... ....... ------- EV electric vehicle ... ............. FTEfull-time - - — - — — - - - - — ------- ---------- - - . equivalents GHG greenhouse gas GWPglobal . ...................... . .. ..... . warming potential . ..... . ............ . . . ............. . .......... . .. . ........ ....... ........... .. HFC - -11-11, ... . .... .... hydrofluorocarbon . . . ............ . . ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability 1PCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change . . . . . . . . . ................ . ......... . . k ki lowvatt . .......... lutte County Climate Action Plan Abbreviation . .... .. ........... ....................... . .. ...... — — - -- ------------------- - Definition . . . . . . . . ....................... ... . - — -- ____- .. . ... . . . ........ ................. . ............. ----------------- ----- ---------- kWh kilowatt-hour lbs ................ . . .. ..... ..... .. . .. ................. . ........ . .......... . — -------- pounds .............. . .... ....... ... . ........... . . . . ........ ............. . ......... LEED . ......... . . .............. ... . .. .................... . ................ — -------- Leadership in Enemy d Environmental Design ----------- LGOPLocal . ................ . Government Operations Protocol - .... . . .............. . . ..... ......... .. - MTCO,e metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents N,O . .. . . .... .... . .......... .. . ........ . ........ ... . . . ............................... ......... nitrous oxide . . ........ . .... ............ . . . . . . ......... ......... ......... . .......... . . . .. . ...... . ..... . — --------- ----------- -------- OPR California Governor's Office of Planning and Research PG&E ------ - . ... ....... . ... . ..... .......... . .... Pacific Gas and Electric Company ............. . . .... . ............ ......... . ...... PV photovoltaic .. ............... __ .................... .. . . . . .................................... . . .. ...... ..... . ...... ... .... RPS Renewables, Portfolio Standard SB Senate Bill SE sulfur hexafluoricle . ... .. ......... ................... . . ..................... . ............. ............. ...................................... TDM transportation demand management I IWMP urban W at er Management Plan vehicle miles traveled = Butte County Climate Action Plan Purpose of the Ckmate Action Plan, IM77 ► #_• I t•IF • preparation of this community -wide Climate Action Plan (CAP) the unincorporated area of Butte County. The CAP is 2 4L&9_? g:w_U;�o_1Lcies_,and_Qi rcf,,w r a adaptation, and improve qual:ity of life in the county. The CAP a] supports statewide G,HG emissions reduction goals identified in the CAP will help the county sustain its natural resources, gro ancecofiorn,".t,aflt associated environmental review will also; serve as a Qualified GH Reduction Strategy under the California Environmental Quality A (CEQA), simplifying development review for new projects that a consistent with the CAP. Ultimately, the County underto development of this CAP! to complete recent efforts initiated in t General'; Plan to address climate change and protect the local quali of life. The County has a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship. The CAP allows City decisiooader community to u.ria rstana LIR2 Mululs Inu emissions, establish goals to reduce G�HG emissions, and prioritize steps to achieve emissions targets. Action steps contained within this CAP build on existing County efforts and leverage partnerships to reduce emissions. This approach allows the County to work effectively, equipping the private sector to undertake innovative projects that are good for business and the environment. Findings in, this CAP demonstrate the importance of Butte County's agricultural sector. Not only is agriculture a dominant sector of the economy, but it is also a major leader in early reductions of GHG emis5ions. Farmers are voluntari:ly undertaking more ArOW-JUIPMOMIXEM reducinA the use of fertilizers, conservinri( water, and replacing inefficient diesel pumps. These practices also have the added benefit of reducing GHG emissions. These businiess-as-usual efforts of Butte's forwa-thi n king agricultural entrepreneurs are reducing GHG emissions while supporting the broader economic viability of the region. Butte County Climate Action Plan INTO "I'll, [sit the County Government Center. Working from this platform, the Department of Development Services worked with, consultant PMC to prepare the CAP. The process consisted of a review of existing activities, in- depth technical analysis, and a colIaboutreach process with County staff, the general public, and agricultural stakeholders. Working from these efforts, the CAP establishes objectives, measures, and actions in several key sectors within Butte County. Sectors addressed by the CAP are energy, agriculture, solid waste, transportation, and off-road and a framework to monitor and demonstrate progress. 17119"IUMM! iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiillillillillillillilliillillillillillillilliillillillillilillillillillillillilliillillililIII �Kley Outcomes of the CAP The CAP presents two main pieces of technical information: (1) GIHG emissions inventory, and(2) calcullatioin of the credit estimates the long-term impact of County efforts to red popuce GH This aproach allws the County to measure rogress o tward t General Plan target of a 15% reduction in GHG emis:sionis by 2020.1 within unincorporated Butte County (hereafter referred to as Buittt County) using a "bottom-up" approach. For instance, vehicle trips and kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity are multiplied by emissions factors, using formulas that are adjusted for conditions in Buttit Cnjjwtv. All GHG emissions in the inventoown in a common emissions inventory analyzes several community sources for unincorporated Butte County in 2006. Of inventoried em[Ssions (911,630 MTCO2e), over three-quarters result from just three sectors: agriculture, on -road transportation, and residential energy use. TM 2006 inventory is presented in Figure ES -2 below. I= Butte County Climate Action PIES 11111111 ITIFIF1 INSPIRIT! 11' 1!111!1111MNM;� Agric 0 Vu re V On RJenibM Fne� gy Energy Emissioinj,, twim Fvesiodk, On -Road MEN AFRO, Oif-Ruarl I-quiprnent nn �Njuipment, cnp �vact ices, and rice Velnr ie rnilp! Wasve uiftiv,aJoin (VM T ) to, flum, Dead(Ayand nao-jrau 13a980MFCIO'12, WV ,ww4er orv"Wim Hie gar,, umsumed by 7,9701,A1CO'e canunwoty hoine'o in the vvatep 4,3,QOPAFC0,e t Off-Rcmd EVAii1prinent V'Vaard Wastewater & Water Orni vw� W and inch L M6SK31r5 ftorn Methane emis,,ions from xtict, hm Ti,,-.� eneqiy requhed to er nlal eh,�ctitkRy awd �-,Mlmiuctirm and iawn ov,We sent� to jandfilk hftm, rnOvO, and ricat watei', natur,fl gas, ('ims�vnt'xl Mid gmrcien ecpipinent fi,orn Ehl� C01-AlnUrlifty ad d he'n ealissions fi(cm i BEV rhecamirmalily used in the conimunity sei�Aic Mtd w"lZmeM 21 110M r I te-Merit oit aigil"ICUiLli 71777777-711 111 1 d tL- I owe production. In 2006, agricultural practices emitted less than 1 MTCO2e per acre of existing agricultural land. In, comparison, when looking at total existing residential and nonresidential acreage, average energy use resulted in, more than 6 MTCO,e per acre. These results indicate that each average acre of new residential, commercial, or industrial land could result in emiss,ions of up to nine times that of an acre of agricultural land. This information focuses solely on inventoried sectors in the Butte community inventory that are easily allocated to land use types. But in general', agricultu4l land can be up to 100 times less intens:ive than urban land when accounting for all inventory emissions. Within agriculture, different crop practices Elko yield different emissions. Certain agricultural practices such as fertilizer use occur across many crop types, but are unable to be allocated by crop due to limited public data. Several key agricultural GHG emissions intensities calculated from the inventory incliucle: a 1.1 MTCO,e/acre: methane emissions from rice per acre of rice field 0 0.7 MTCO2e/,acre: total agricultural emissions per acre of agricultural land (any type) a, 0.4 MTCO,e/a,cre: orchard residue burn emissions/acre of harvested orchard Although general approximations, these comparisons highlight agriculture's relative efficiency of GHG emissions. Butte County Climate Action Plan �l�ilI lilliiiiu Strategies to reduce GHG emissions build on inventory results and key opportunities prioritized by County staff, agricultural stakeholders, and the public engagement process. Full implementation of the CAP can reduce emissions by u'p to 16.2% below baseline 2006 levels by 2020, exceeding the General Plan goal and state guidance for reductions. The majority of reductions will be achieved through the County's efforts to sh-&&Iwrr�mt practices. NI --IE U4 ErAi[Q.T.1111 o NO voluntary programs and new strategic standards, All recommended standards presented in this CAP re,spond to the needs of development, avoiding unnecessary regulation, streamli'niing new development, and ty the CAP in 2020 are presented in Figure ES -3 below. Sr;� Le amJ Loc�; �ActNities 700,000 ..... . . . ............... ... . .. 2006 2012 2015 2020 200613asefine .--.-2020 Forecast 2020 Forecast Adjusted with Local and State Activities CAP Reduction Measures GHG Reduction Targets Butte County Climate Action Plan TMem t* U5C CfCdLII C C*Ud CAP also highlights the important contribution of the agriculturall sector, providing an example of cost- effective environmental stewardship. as flooding, heat waves, and wildfire. Measures in the CAP and proactive steps will help the County achieve the General Plan vision of thriving communities, a strong agricultural base, and healthy natural resources. Butte County Climate Action Plan 11 ; 1,110111 �IM Butte Coiunty Climate Action Plan What is'rhis Plan? Butte County (County) recognizes a compeg need for a local approach to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) General Plan Policy COS -AM directs the County to "develop a Climate Action Plan!, which, in combination with other existing policies and regulations by other agencies and business sectors of the economy, woiuld achieve reduction consistent with State guidel'ines using methodology deemed appropriate at the time of quantification." This Climate Action Plan (CAP) is a strategic plan that implements direction established by the Board of Supervisors in the General Plan and reduces emissions in a manner consistent with California guidelines and 2,jwrF9MYx ?A-4 *07 residents, businesses, and development projects to continue to make Butte County a more sustainabit community and ways to; increase economic, social, and environmental resiliency under a changing climate, The CAP may also simplify future environmental review of development projects under the California Id tutte County Climate Action Plan Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Together, the measures and actions established in the CAP will simplIfy development review; provide greater consistency between County agriculture, sustainability, and renewable related to climate change. development and agriculture. The County has already taken many steps to reduce GHG emissions. Within this context, the CAP identifies how current County policies and actions and steps the County will take in the 9�- kPbt419. #_48� provides emissiions reduction measures and actions for agriculture, energy use, transportation, land use, water, solid waste, and off-road equipment that will reinforce, build upon, and sustain these policies and programs, The success of this plan will rely on collaborative and dynamic partnerships with the private sector, communitjq,rss, trade associations, and other stakeholders. With this CAP the Count�i seeks to otect the unique aspects that draw residents and businesses to the area, while strengthening programs that improve quality of life and reduce emissions. Located in Northern California, unincorporated Butte County contains approximately 1,680 square miles within the northeastern end! of the Sacramento Valley, extending east into the northern Sierra Nevada foothills. Butte County is predominantly a rural area; urban, land makes up less than 5% of the total county area. Weather is generally temperate, and warm, with average lows dropping to just below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and summer highs ranging over 90 degrees Fahrenheit.' Homes and businesses are dispersed throughout the unincorporated county, resulting in transportation activity typical for a rural, unincorporated co'.... nty, Given the distribution of homes, businesses, and daily of California's energy-efficient Title 24 building code in 1978. Similar to other rural counties, Butte County does, not require a business license or maintain extensive building stock records. Aggricufture is a strong and growin unincor orated counti land in 2012. Accordini to thi Awrio , ri Jjmjnijjij, jJ j ; 141,1,iti 45% above the county's 10 -year average .2 Walnuts, almonds, and rice crops were among the highest -value crop types. Generally, agricultural activity has been shifting from field crops to high:er-v,alue nut crops that tv*icallv rewuire less wiaer ?IniO fertilizer. iprictjltur.�,] !aiusiitesses Uve-takew stp.*_s to re0u_cP_c#_st_,;__ • If-nMAFP-- Ma U-IMIM WIN MHOMHOU 1911AIAMISM411 fie 'k-01111.11LI ef_( 3y, drIU �5 d�5,f InIPPOL Mv� YFLLC�):) UJ MC CAP, Butte County. 2007. General Plan Setting & Trends Report Public Draft. Butte County Agriculture Commission, 2013. Butte County 2012 Crop Report, The Butte County Department of Development Services (DDS) led preparation of this CAP with assistance from several other County departments to follow direction established within the General Plan. The DiDS (comprisinig the Building, Code Enforcement, and Planning divisions) is the County agency responsible for consisten't with the County's long-term goals. The DIDS administers development -related actions while enhancing public understanding of land use and development laws and procedures. DDS staff will assume primary responsibility for coordinating the programs and actions identified in the CAP. Where this Plan Applies The CAP' provides GFIG emissions reduction targets for both the unincorporated Butte County community, and for Butte County government operationis,. Figure 1 identifies the jurisdictional boundary of Butte County, which includes the cities of Biggs, Chico, Gridley, and Oroville, and the Town of Paradise. Butte County �wrovides manii services, on_�Oufiwv which is the focus of the CAP. The term "community" is used to refer to the unincorporated area. The CAPalso addresses Butte County government operations and facilities in both incorporated and uinin�cor!2orated areas. Government o erations emissions are distinct from communit,,, emissions, and-th-qcaw- topics have different GHG emissions reduction targets. Butte County Climate Action Plan BUTTE COUNTY GENERAL PLAN 3.X730 LAND 15Y [1.IiJ11NI" rr", MOIA4 v %l, ?A R AR»&SE 'LL y'v pJpHA'\ 'Ci f;ALU", r 0 _� r"U'll-rPM LS "pber-, '0 9 1 G C I V L—t, sum Ca ty kup4q OxhN , Couray Soundwy The primary intent of the CAP is to reduce emissions in unincorporated Butte County through, ongoing partnerships with other agencies and community groups. Butte County will work with the cities of Biggs, Chico, Gridley, and Oroville, and the Town of Paradise, along with the Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG) and the Butte County Air Quality Management District (BCAQMD). Ongoing collaboration and support wilIl allow the County to effectively use existing resources and leverage funding toward common interests. The County will also engage Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), agricultural Industry groups, and nonprofit institutions. The Institute for Sustainable Development at California State University, Chico is another partner working toward regional sustainability that can provide ongoing support to the County as it develops and monitors CAP programs. The County's plan to engage these and other stakeholders is further discussed in Chapter 4. Why Butte County Developeld'This Plan I R I I I I I I I I I Iis I trie 20ju Generail Flan. Conservation and Upen !�pace Flement 6oal COS -1 directs the County to reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. The General Plan allso commits the County to prepare a CAP to achieve these emissions levels, and to set emissions reduction goals for future years beyond 2020, Before adopting the General Plan, County staff conducted extensive public outreach to shape a lonig-termi vision and priorities. This engagement process focused the General Plan on strategies to reduce emissions, jgrotect resources, and enhance the environmenit, while im%wroving_bcal qualitqA of life. The CAP b.; early efforts, completing General Plan tasks that reflect community priorities. nce to Cha,#,�,�ge Long-term protection of natural resources and communities is a central theme of the General Plan. To ensure that natural and human systems can continue to thrive, the County must anticipate changing climatic conditions relative to existing hazards and risk exposure. Even if global GiHG emissions ceased immediately, existing local hazard�s and vulnerabilities would be exacerbated by climate change, Local hazards that will be affected bI climate chan�oe includ risk, more frequent and damaging floods, reduced water supply, and increased risks to local ecosystems and crops. The County is already addressing these challenges, but must be prepared to respond to changing risks by modifying some operational practices and strengthening the capacity of County resources to respond. Throu,,,,• Orcim- � J I• - - to disasters. Chapter 5 of this plan further discusses these issues, outlining steps the County can take to improve existing hazard mitigation practices and adjust to long-term gradual changes expected with climate change, Priorl'ity lssiies ii"n Biu�,tte Coaiir)pty The General Plan prioritizes natural resource protection!, including open spaces,, agricultural, and biological and ecological resources. The County's vision values these resources whHe encouraging compact develo menit su ortini housini emuloiment, recreation, and airiiIii term resiliency to changing environmental and economic conditions. Butte County Climate Action Plan = GeAer2I PNIA tr,2Asp*rtZV*A -0.&0 li.i-t"se #+Iicies ive Are?I.y Chapter 3 describes the positive benefits of these policies. The following sections of the CAP analyze and describe further direction and provide cost-effective options to reduce GHG emissions and improve the quality of life in Butte County consistent with, the General Plan. County staff, farmers, and businesses are a I re a d �,i c o n d U IZ business and farm success,. Additional priorities emerged during the development of the CAP. Most of Butte County's building stock was constructed prior to adoption of California's progressive en:ergy-efficient building standards in! the late 1970s. Due to the characteristics of this older building stock, many buildings are old enough to benefit from measures that improve habitability and reduce energy use. The County's approach to support energy efficiency is to leverage collaborative partnerships with existing community groups, trade associations, and other stakeholders. This approach, where the DDS has focused on the private sector, has been prioritized as more effective for Butte County than an extensive permitting process and unnecessary regulations. State Assembly Bill (AB) 32 (2006), the Global Warming Solutions Act, directs public agencies in California to support the statewide goal of reducing GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Preparing a CAP supports AB 32 at the local level by providing a policy framework to reduce emissions. While complying with AB 32 is not a direct requirement for local jurisdictions, demonstrating consistency with statewide reduction goals can help Butte County qualify for incentives such as grant funding. State efforts to address climate change, reduce resource consumption, and improve energy efficiency are identified in Figure 2. Climate Change Butte County Climate Action Plan R ni� IIIAIAM-1111) �; 1;1 10111 How Butte County Developed This Plan and 6 fulfill steps one through three and provide a structure to complete steps four and five. Step five is essential to: a successful CAP as it is the point when the City estimates the effectiveness of the CAP and determines if additional measures are needed. The County led a collaborative process throughout development of the CAP. Opportunities for public participation: included a community works,hiop, mobile booth at the Butte County Fair, stakeholder focus group meetings, and updates to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors. These focused efforts built upon a broader-based General Plan outreach process. As, the unincorporated county encompasses a d'iverse geography and range of communities, the County recognizes that ongoing public involvement is critical to develop a plan that responds to community priorities and to build and nurture partnerships necessary to implement it. Figure 3. Five -Step Climate Action Planning Process' . . ....... . fj ..... ....... MR,""I'll", 3 See ICLE I's Five M,i I estonesf or Climate Mitigation (http://www.icNeiLAsa.org/action-center/getting-5tarted/iclei2O19s-five-miRestones- for-d i m ate -p rotectio n) Butte County Climate Action PlanEll 11 V0II*y project website, and public hearings. These events provided a forum for community members to voice ideas about how to reduce emissions and to make Butte County a more, sustainable place to live and work. 6 March 20 and August 5, 2013, Agricultural Stakeholder Events. Due to the importance of agricultu,re both to the County's economy and local emissions reduction strategies, the County held two focused meetings with Butte County Farm Bureau representatives and the Agriculture Commission office to identify opportunities, review data, and prioritize proposed measures and actions, 0 May 14, 2013, Community Open House. Butte County hosted a CAP community open house at Lakeside Pavilion in Chico�., Upon arrival, participants were invited to start reviewing the open house displays. County, BCAQMD, and City of Chico staff and consuiltants gave presentations about the project. After the presentations, attendees provided input at six open house activity stations. Approximately 30 people attended the open house. May 74,2073, open house presentation by Tim Sneffings, DDS director As part of the workshop, attendees participated in electronic polling. Themes that emerged from the workshop included strong support for renewable energy generation in the county, moderate support for increased use of electric vehicles, and a desire to achieve GHG reduction targets largely through incentivized or voluntary approaches. have had the time or a flity to attend the May 14 community open house. I= Butte County Climate Action Plan A ugust22-25,2013, "Pop -Up" Workshop of Butte County Fair 1 -low Butte County Will Implement This Plan tmissions, CAP actions will be integrated within County p�rocesses, trigger ordinance updates, and initiate policy and procedure revisions. Departments will consider the CAP when preparing annual work plans. DDS jili JAJ 1 j ji, j d�iil, wT-n• a IG The CAP has been prepared to be accessible to and useful for a variety of stakeholders. It can be used as a work plan by County staff, an; informational resource for property owners, and a way to engage interested partners and stak�eholders, It is primarily a too] to identify the County's plan to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to climate change locally. However, the County will only achieve the goals, of this CAP through ity partnershiips,. Members of the pubhc can use the CAP to identify programs and opportunities or communi learn about local conditions and priorities,. Butte County Climate Action Plant 11 11 The CAP provides a framework for the County to reduce community -wide, GHG emissions, to simplify the environmental review process for new development, and to review and process projects in a timely and more predictable manner. ' Most large new development projects must undergo a lengtAhy CEQ review process to analyze and disclose potential environmental impacts. New projects that the County considers to be consistent with the CAP, can avoid analyzing specific impacts on climate change, although these projects may still be required to analyze other potential environmental impacts in a negative cleclaration, mitigated negative declaration, or environmental impact report, By identifying a menu of measures in this CAP, the County is providing applicants with a recommended list of ways to reduce G:HG emissions, reducing the workload for project applicants. Applicants can incorporate CAP measures within proposed projects, knowing that they meet the County's expectations. fhe Butte: County CAP and accompanying environmental documentation provide these benefits based on consistency with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1). County staff will use a project checklist to analyze the consistency of new projects subject to CEQA with applicable CAP measures. 1 [1 1MI Butte County Climate Action Plan Butte County Landfill -Gas -to -Energy Project 14110111 MKI I a I III M4111 01#1 M1144 EM41 I I I I I tDIIII M-MI"ITIM" 'Ir PJR5- -'WR GHG emissions. The 2006 baseline year has been selected for consistency with state guidance and the General Plan. This chapter also describes projected em]55ions levels for the community and government operations for 2020 and 2030. Consistent with, state guidance and General Plan requirements, the County has identified -W.W#r6 refer to AIIKVtendix B for acldition'� detail and description of methods used to complete the inventory. Butte County Climate Action Plan = Methods and Emissions Sources This inventory was prepared using protocols and best practices identified within the Local Government Operations Protocol (LGOP) v, 1.1 and the U.S, Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The inventory analyzes the following community and government operations 5 tmis5io:n5 sources * Agriculture - Emissions from fertilizer and agricultural off-road equipment/vehicles * Transportation - Vehicle miles traveled (VMT) to, from, or within the community Residential energy - Residential electricity, natural gas, and propane consumed 16 Nonresidential energy - Commercial and industrial electricity and natural gas, consumed 0 Off-road equipment and vehicles - Emissions from construction and from lawn and garden equipment 0 Solid waste - Methane emissions from waste sent to the landfill from the unincorporated area 0 Wastewater - Energy required to treat and move wastewater and direct emissions from septic tanks Water - Energy required to extract, move, and/or treat ground and surface water 0�,i,;�wivtions Building energy - Electricity and natural gas consumed at County facilities 10, Lighting - Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) -owned streetlights, County -owned streetlights, and County_ owned traffic lights and controllers all Water and wastewater - Electricity used to treat and deliver potable water and to transport and treat wastewater Vehicle fleet - Gasoline- and cl�esekfueled vehicles Landfill - Direct emissions from the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility Employee commute and travel - Employee commutes and car rentals for business travel Government -generated solid waste - Direct emissions from landfilled waste 'The LGOP is a collaborative effort between ICLEI .- Local Governments for Sustainabflity, the California Air Resources Board (CARR), the California Climate Action Registry, and The Climate Registry. 'Additional sectors were inventoried, but not included in the CAP due to track of jurisdictional control. I=, Butte County Climate Action PIZZ The GHG emissions inventory is based an activity data collected for each sector, such as the kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity or therms of natural gas used for the residential, commercial, and industrial energy sectors; VMT for the transportation sector,* or million gallons of water used by the community in a single calendar year. providers or emissions modeling software that indicates the, GHGs emitted for every kWh produced, mile traveled, or ton of waste disposed. Appendix 8 identifies emissions factors used within the CAP. ri 2 oxide (N,O). These GHGs are then converted to metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (MTCO,e) by comparing the global warmiling potential (GWP) of each gas to CO2. For example, CH, is 21' times more powerfu�l than CO2 on a per -weight basis in its capacity to trap heat, while nitrous oxide (N,O) is 310 times more powerful than CO2, This, conversion enables the County to consider different GHGs in comparable terms. Communi Illinventory and Goveriniment Operations The community inventory counts emissions generated by activities occurring in the unincorporated county. Cou�nty government operations, occur in unincorporated areas, but many facilities are also located in incorporated cities (e.g., the County facilities located in Oroville). Emissions generated by County operations are much smaller than those generated by the community at large, and it is not feasible to accurately identify which government operations emissions occur withiin the unincorporated area. Therefore, the government operations inventory and the community inventory are treated as separate, non -comparable items. Baseline 2006 Inventories To support the CAP, the County reviewed and updated a Butte County 2006 baseline community GHG emissions invento,ry and 2020 and 2030 emissions forecasts originally prepared for Butte County General Plan 2030. Additional information conicernina the review and uodates is orovided in Aomwendix B. Table I wrese (265,45iO MTCO2e, 29%) and residential energy use (150,630 MTCO:2e, 17%) are the next two largest sectors, respectively. Nonresidential energy use (61,450 MTCO2e, 7%) and off-road equipment, solid waste, wastewater, and water cumulatively accounted for the remaining emissions (43,700 MTCO,e, 5%). it is imFortant to note that sq, toried but ex,.;IudedJroniba_w.1' Butte County Climate 4ction Plan = T Notes: *Additional sectors (e.g., forestry) were inventoried, but not included due to lack ofjurisdictional control. **Due to rounding, percent oftotal column may not equal 100%. Figure 4: 2006 Community Emissions by Sector Agricukuu, On�Road f6aiispwtation rlonreskhmua. Fnergy Off Road I..:quIpn'ent waoe W'Oevnter VIM '' Alakil� P"gi: 4 iA`Zuuu Envs3kms ftwn flvestof k, em 2006 GHG Emissions Sector* Oin-Road rranspartaflori - - - ------------ -------- .. . . ........................ . . MTCO,e Percent of Total" Agriculture .. ..... .... ...... . ... ....... .. ......... �-11111111111111111111��1-1---rr'll-11-111 ------ - - ------ 'rigf1r_ Coavnerdal �ndus 390,400 . ..... 43% Transportation265,450 --- - ------ ------ - . .. . . . . . ..... ....... . ............. ........... . comnunivY 29% Residential energy150,630 -- . ......... . . . . ............ ------- ------- IMWIIA g&!S corr.,;wned ccuU'uUkm aild awn 17% ---- -- -- ---------- Nonresidential energy . .............. . .... .. ...... .. . 61,450 . ...... . ..................... . 7% Off-road equipment and vehicles17,360 . . . . ................. . . ............ . . ..... .. ..... . . u�'ed I ri Ihtr" ,, (mununity 2% Solid waste 13,9802% .... .... . .......... . ........... .. ...... .......... .... .. . -", Wastewater7,970 . .... . . .. ............ . ....... . ............... . ........... . 1% Water - ......... . . ........ . .......... --------- ------ 4,390 .. . ........... . ............................ . ............. . .... . ......... ......... . ..... . . .......... . .. ......... . ................... .... ... <1% Total 911,630 100% Notes: *Additional sectors (e.g., forestry) were inventoried, but not included due to lack ofjurisdictional control. **Due to rounding, percent oftotal column may not equal 100%. Figure 4: 2006 Community Emissions by Sector Agricukuu, On�Road f6aiispwtation rlonreskhmua. Fnergy Off Road I..:quIpn'ent waoe W'Oevnter VIM '' Alakil� P"gi: 4 iA`Zuuu Envs3kms ftwn flvestof k, em Oin-Road rranspartaflori V4ikk, rnfles liavuled CVMT� ��o, frci,i�, DectriOy ard n,:Ujwi 'rigf1r_ Coavnerdal �ndus (jd$ 1'10rx50u7vxby Illn"Illy ho � M I ✓ " I rY i 11 4' and GrV PV decaidry and comnunivY 6 Y,430 M 11 CC) i, 17360MIC0,0 Baseline (2006) government operations emissions for Butte County were calculated using data collected by the County in a manner consistent with best practices and methods recommended by the LGOP. As illustrated in Figure 5 and Table 2, inventoried emissions in 2006 totaled 30,010 MTCO2e. The Neal Road Recycling! and Waste Facility was the largest source ••p in 2006i, resulting in 13,700, MTC0,e (46:% of total emissions). Employee commute and travel was the second-largest sector, resulting in 6,030 MTCO,,e (20% of total Butte County Cl'imate Action Plan r 'rigf1r_ Coavnerdal �ndus RDWA U13.6pment Waste, Wastewater & Water and GrV PV decaidry and Ejr)*,siom from f"Ietharu, enV ,aloin ' hrwn nequ14ed to (-Xracl:' IMWIIA g&!S corr.,;wned ccuU'uUkm aild awn waMc sent (r) $ndffll; ili4eze„ niuve, Mid lr aK vv"7 C'I" MId gouk'n vquiprm"M from Ole coam"Pinity auld chrt fy(nn u�'ed I ri Ihtr" ,, (mununity se�,ANc sy,tems and Veatirc.n� Baseline (2006) government operations emissions for Butte County were calculated using data collected by the County in a manner consistent with best practices and methods recommended by the LGOP. As illustrated in Figure 5 and Table 2, inventoried emissions in 2006 totaled 30,010 MTCO2e. The Neal Road Recycling! and Waste Facility was the largest source ••p in 2006i, resulting in 13,700, MTC0,e (46:% of total emissions). Employee commute and travel was the second-largest sector, resulting in 6,030 MTCO,,e (20% of total Butte County Cl'imate Action Plan government operations emissions), Building energy emissions (5,840 MTCO,e, 19%) and vehicle fleet emissions (4,340 MTCO,e, 14%) were the third- and fourth-largest emissions sources. Lighting, water and wastewater, and governiment-generated solid waste together, resulted in 100 MTCO,e (less than I -igure 5: 2006 Government Operations Emissions by Sector 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 Butte County Climate Action Plan 111MI 2006 GHG Emissions Sector .ssions . . . . ........... .... . ............. . .. MTCOze__., Percent Neal Road Recycling and Waste . . . .......... . .............. . . 13,700 46% Employee commute and travel ... . ...... - --- -- . . . ......... 6,030 20% Building energy .- . .... ... .......... . ...... ...... .. 5,840 . ... . ...... 19% Vehicle fleet4,340 .... . .. . . . . ....... . ................. 14% Lighting. . . . ........... . ... . ..... . . ... .. .... . . . . . . ..................... . 80 <-I-% Water and wastewater 10 Government -generated solid waste ............ . . 10 <1% Total 30,010 100% -igure 5: 2006 Government Operations Emissions by Sector 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 Butte County Climate Action Plan 111MI jj�� Butte • Climate Action Plan 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 2006 2020 2030 Water Wastewater Waste a Off -Road Equipment o Commercial/industrial Energy a Residential Energy On -Road Transportation IIIII Agriculture ff IMMUM4 I �j1qT;%rIVV#NjI this increase is related to anticipated growth in service population within the u nj ncorpio rated county under the General Plan, which would directly increase emis,sions in the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility and lighting sec�tors, and would ind�irectl'y increase emissions in remaining governmeint operations sectors by increasing need for County staff, buildings, and services. l'utte County Climate Action Plan = ---------- _MTC0,e Sector2006 - -- ---- --- - ------ 2020 2030 ......... . . Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility 13,700 1 17,560 . Employee commute and travel . . . . . . . ........... ...................................... . . . . 6,030 6,530 6,910 . ............ ..... Budding ene � . . . ..... .. ... . .... .. .. .... ............ 5,840 6,370 6,370 Vehicle fleet 4,340 4,700 4,9710 Lighting80 . .......... . ........... - --------- . . .... .. ... ........... ... ..... ...... - ---- ---- ------ - - - - ---------------- . . .......... 90 90 Water and wastewater 10 1010 . .... .......... . . .......... Government -generated solid waste 10 10 10 Total --111111-111 .. ........... . 30,010 ............... .. .. .... . ----- ----- --- --- - 33,660 ------------------------ ......... ...... 35,920 Percen changefrom 2006 +12% 1 +20% l'utte County Climate Action Plan = 40,000 35,000 30,000 25,000 210,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 2006 2020 2030 1��M Butte County Climate Action Plan Government -Generated Solid Waste Water and Wastewater Fs, Lighting N Vehicle Fleet Building Energy M Employee COMMLIte and Travel aw Neai Road facility WIPPININ This chapter identifies Butte County's greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals and demonstrates early progress toward these goals. The reduction goal represents the overall objective of the Climate Action Plan (CAP); and provides a quantitative benchmark to assess progress. Accounting for early accomplishments enables the CAP to appropriately focus on future steps, needed to reduce GHGs. Reduction Goals The California Environmentall Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines recommend that a CAP contain an emissions reduction goal. Lead agencies are responsible for setting goals for future years. Several air quality management districts have provided further guidance to assist agencies, with GHG reduction goals. At the rP*,?r2fino,untv Air Oualitv Management District (BCAOMD) has not .www 31 Butte County Climate Action Plan SIR M1 M71797-M-13sions. i ne-Gen an RM a silimal felucTion Itoa 'i "T TIM ciiiiiiii en Plan does commit the County to identifying a 2030 reduction goal by 2020 (refer to COS -AM, Actions h, i)4 As shown in Table 5, the Cou,nty needs to reduce community emissions by 24% (240;,370 MTCO2e) below forecast levelis to ach,ieve a 15% reduction below baseline 2006 levels in, 2020. Similarly, to be on a trajectory toward the, EO S-3-05 goal for 2050, the County woWd need to reduce community emissions by 52%, to achieve a 42% reduction below baseline 2006 levels in 203:0. Consistent with the General Plan, the primary focus of this CAP is to achieve a 2020 reduction go.l, However, to demonstrate long-term progress toward 2030 reductions, a 2030 goal is provided for context. Consistent with the General Plan, the County will continue to evaluate progress achieving 20i2O gdance to identify an appropriate 2030 reduction target by 2020, . . ........ . ...................... . . . .......... ... .. ... .. . 202,0 - — ---- - --- - -- 2030 Reduction goals (percent below baseline) . ...... . .... -15% -42% Community emissions goals (M e)774,890 . ........... .. .. .. 53�1,780 . . ................. . ..... - - -- — - - _-- GHG forecasts (MTCO2e) . . ............ . .......... .. - - - ---------------- - - - - . . ........ 1,015,260 - - - ---------- 1,111,120 . ......................... - Reductions needed (MTCO2e) _-_- - - -_---_- - ------- -240,370 . . . . ....... . . ..................... -579,340 .. ..... ...... . . .... ..... . ....... .. . ........ Percent reduction needed to achieve goals ... . ... ............... . .... .. .. . . . - - ---- - --- --- ----- -24% -52% MMIII Butte County Climate Action Plan, Reduction goals for community GHG emissions can also be applied to government operations. Table 6 *wtlii�es tteiissit?is rt8Ycti*n 9 ntctssiry rt4y.et4ms. \;,,Iitk*y.t County action, government emissionis would exceed state -recommended reduction goals by over 5,000 forecast levels (8,150 MTCO,e) to achieve a 15% reduction below baseline 2006 levels in 2020, Similarly, the County would need to reduce government operations emissions, by approximately 51% from forecast levels (18,510 MTCO,e) to achieve a 42% reduction below baseline 2006 levels, Current Progress to Goals The County has a successful track record of supporting programs and initiatives that promote environmental sustainability at the local level. The state has also taken action by passing a fulfil range of environmental laws that are actively reducing emissions throughout California. This section identifies activities and requirements implemented at the state and local levels since 2006 and their benefits to reducing local emissions. These activities and requirements have already set the County on a path to achieve its reduction goals. Since passing AB 32, the state has enacted numerous regulations, and programs to reduce GHG emissions. Although statewide in scope, these actions affect vehicle emissions, the renewable energy content of electricity, energy efficiency in new buildings, and renewable energy systems at the local level, thereby reducing local GHG emissions. O.Yantified Key state programs and requirements that affect local emissions in Butte County are, described below and credited toward the 2020 emissions redluction target. Payley Vehicle Standards and Low Carbon Fuel Standard AB 1493 (2002) regulations require manufacturers of new passenger vehicles to reduce tailpipe GHG emissions from 2009 to 20201. The emissions benefits from implementation of the P,avley standards are quantified using the CARB EMFAC emissions model. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) calls for a reduction of at least 10% in the carbon intensity of California's transportation fuels by 2020. Although the LCFS is currently being challenged in the courts, CARR is actively implementing the LCFS; therefore, it is included in this analysis. In 2020, these standards for more efficient vehicles would reduce emissions in Butte County by 79,730 MTCO2e. I;utte County Climate Action Plan IM California Renewables Portfolio Standard One of the most ambitious, renewable energy standards in the country, the Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) mandates that 33% of electricity delivered by investor-owned utilities in California, including PG&E, be generated by renewable sources like solar', wind', and geothermal by 2020. Senate B 0178 first codified the California RPS in 2002, requiring a 20i% renewable electricity mix by 20M SB X 1-2 further strengthened 4-e. RPS in A�*ril 2011 reyuiring a 33% renewable electricity, mix br, 2020. As of 2012 PG&Fs reneiLable ener%, generation made up 191% of the e,lectric�ity portfolio. In 2020, cleaner energy from RPS would reduce emissions in Butte County by 16,860 MTCO,e. Title 24, Energy Efficiency Standards Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations is a statewide standard applied by local agencies thirough building permits. It includes requirements for the structu4l, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems of buildings and for fire and life safety, energy conservation, green design, and accessibility in and around buildings. Part 6 (the California Energy Code) and Part I I (the California Green Building Standards Code) include prescriptive and perfo rma nce- based standards to reduce electricity and natural gas use in every new building constructed in California. The GHG reduction benefits of these standards to Butte County include the net energy benefit of new Title 24 requirements that did not exist in the 2006 baseline year. As Title 24 antjci:gated advances in ener.ALeffic�ncX uji-ements are included in GHG el"M--d -mR emissions reductions. In 2020, energy saved in new buildings resulting from Title 24 would reduce emissions in Butte County by 5,3,50 MTCO,,e. Goveri,un,),'Yerit ratiorcs State programs and requirements also affect governiiment operations emissions:, as shown in Table 8. Considering the 2020 emissions forecast of 12% above 2006 baseline emissions levels identified in Chapter 2, the local benefit of these state reduction measures would reduce 2020 government operations emissions Butte County to about 1% above 2006 levels. The majority of reductions come from the Pavley and LCFS standards, which reduce emis,sions from employee commutes and the County's fleet, as newer, more fuel- efficient vehicles are purchased by the County and by staff. Table 8: Local Reduction Benefits of State Programs Butte County is also doing its part to implement policies and programs that conserve resources and reduce emissions,. This section highlights specific actions taken by the County since 2006 to reduce emissions through 2012 and quantifies additional reductions that willl result from continued implementation of those actions through 2020. Local accomplishments initiated or completed since 2006 are identified below, Although Butte County has reduced emissions through numerous local accomplishments since 2005, this section describes local accomplishments throughout Butte County that can be quantified using existing, generally accepted methods. Accomplishments incluide: Solar photovoltaic arrays (California Solar Initiative (CSI) and Butte College). This accomplishment quantifies GHG reductions that occur from solar photovoltaic (PV) instal�lations. Quantified reductions account for solar arrays installed via the CSI, which provided rebates for solar in;stallations, and panels installed at Butte Collegei. Butte County Climate Action Plan On MTCO,e ... . ..... . ....... . .. ..... ... . 2006 2020 2030 Emissions ...................... .. . . — - - - ----- ------- - - 30,010 33,660 35,920 Pavley and LCFS standards . . ...... ... .. . ...... . ..... . .............. -2,890 . . . ....... .... .... . ..... --------- --------- - -- - -3,750 Renewables Portfolio Standard . ................. . . . . .......... .. ... . . -330 . . ...... . .... . ........... -- ----------------- --- -540 — - ------ --- - '— Title 24, (Energy Efficiency Standards ... ........ --- -------- -30 . .. ..... ....... . . . ...... . ........ ..... . ........ — — - - - - -- - - - - - - -0 3 - - --- - ----------------------------------------- - --.— ....... .. . Total state reductions . . .... . ......... - — ---- . . . ...... . ........... . ... . -3,250 -4,320 Emissions with state reductions " - ............. . ......... . .... . - -- - - ---------------- - ---------------- - ------ 30,410 31,600 ....... . .......... ................. . . . . ... . .. . . ........ . .. Percentage change from 2006 ...... ...... . ................. .. +1% . . . . . . ... . . . ....... ................ . . 1-5% Butte County is also doing its part to implement policies and programs that conserve resources and reduce emissions,. This section highlights specific actions taken by the County since 2006 to reduce emissions through 2012 and quantifies additional reductions that willl result from continued implementation of those actions through 2020. Local accomplishments initiated or completed since 2006 are identified below, Although Butte County has reduced emissions through numerous local accomplishments since 2005, this section describes local accomplishments throughout Butte County that can be quantified using existing, generally accepted methods. Accomplishments incluide: Solar photovoltaic arrays (California Solar Initiative (CSI) and Butte College). This accomplishment quantifies GHG reductions that occur from solar photovoltaic (PV) instal�lations. Quantified reductions account for solar arrays installed via the CSI, which provided rebates for solar in;stallations, and panels installed at Butte Collegei. Butte County Climate Action Plan On the burning of crop lands after they are harvested to clear the Iand of residual vegetation. Sinic�e 2006, farmers have decreased the amount of residue crops that are burned. Instead, farmers -1z'2N1P PY jeiiiiii, J M"j" _ MW reducing crop burns, farmers have been improving air quality and reducing GH�G emissions, less GHG-intensive crops. In response to changing regulations and the costs of fertilizer, farmers have optimized the use of • i*6-1 feft&-dirt-ar4i �-Ijt th-eet and indirect GHG emissions that are captured in the community inventory. Farmers have reduced fertilizer and pesticides while maintaining high is yields. Additionally, farmers have been is, Increased solid waste diversion rate (2006-2012). Between 2006 and 2012, the solid waste diversion rate for the unincorporated county increased from 56% to 59%. The County receives credit for the decrease in methane that will be emilitted over time as a result of less landfilled waste. Road Recycling and Waste Facility is used to generate over 15,000,000 kWh per year. This accomplishment accounts for the energy saved able energy resource. Annexations of land with residential and nonresidential energy use into incIorporated areas. The General Plan identifies priority areas for annexation into, incorporated cities. This accomplishment quantifies the reduction in County GHGs that will be assumed by cities. Increased proportion of multi -family units. The 2020 and 2030i GIHG forecasts assume each household will consume the same average energy level as it did in 2006. The General Plan Land Use Element identifies an increased proportion of multi -family units in 2020 and O relative to 2006. Multi -family un,its are generalily less energy intensive than single-family units., The average energy intensity per household has been adjusted to reflect the expected mix of housing types. The resulting GHG reductions are credited against the 2020 and 2030 forecasts. Complete streets ordinance. The County has, adopted complete streets and land use policies that encourage alternative transportation and efficiently provide access, for pedestrians, bicyclists, buses, and motor vehicles. The VMT reduction and associated GHG reduction benefits of the ordinance are quantified. 11 I Butte County Climate Action Plan Benefit of L ocal A cc ory Together, state and local accomplishments are expected to reduce 2020 community emissions to 3% below baseline levels. Table 9 summarizes emissions reductions from local accomplishments for 2020. Table 9: Accomplishments and Progress to Target - --- - ------ ........... . . . . ... . .... MTCO,e Activities and Accomplishments .. .... . ..... ............... 2006 21020 . . . . . .... . .. . .......................... . ...... . __ .. . ........ .... . . . ............... ----- ------- ---- _..__ 2030 . Emissions with state reductions911,630 913,320 . .... .... ..... .. . . . . ........ . .... . .. . ... . ........... .............................. ............. 951,040 Solar PV ar s (CSI and Butte College)-1,730 ... . .......... -1,640 Reductions in crop residue burnings,-790 - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - --- - -- - --- - -790 Reductions in fertilizer and pesticide use, and conversion to less GHG-intensive -15,880 -15,880 crops . . . ..... . ........ . . . .. . ...... .......... ...... Increased solid waste diversion rate (2006-2012) -1,020 . . . ....... . ......... . . . . ...... ....................... -1,020 . .. .. Landfill gas power plant -2,770 . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... ......... ................... ...... ......... . . . . ... ........ . .......... . -2,620 Annexations of land with residential and nonresidential energy use into -440 -4240 incorporated areas — - -- ------- -------------------- - . ............... ..................... .......... ... . . . ... .... ... .... . ....... .. ... ... ............ Increased proportion of multi-family units -1,320 ------------- ................ ... .. .. ..... -2,540 Complete streets ordinance 6,150 . . . . . .. .............. ...... . . . . ........... . ..... . .... - -6,750 ................................... .. . . Total reductions -30,100 ....................... ........ . . . . . . ............... . ... .......... ...... . .... . .... . . . . -35,480 Emissions with state and local reductions 911,630 883,220 - - - - --------- -- --- 915,560 �111111111-1 Percentage change from 21006_3% - ------ - ------ . . . . ....... ......... . . ........ .. . - . +<l% I Emissions reduction goal -15% - _ . .......... . .. .... . . ----------- . . . . . . . . . ... ............ . ....... . ..... . . -42% Targ t emissions leve,l (MTCO,e)774,890 . ..................... . 531,780 _. Remaining reductions needed to achieve goal (MTCO -.1 -108,330 . . ........... . . .... . . ........ -383,780 ..... . . ... ....... These reductions provide a community-wide credit for GHG emissions. Additionally, the County has or is currently implementing numerous initiatives that reduce costs and emissions. While each does, not yield a direct GHG reduction credit due to early start dates before the 2006 baseline and limited data, nonetheless, these actions demonstrate the benefit of programs to the community and improve County operations, Specifically, several County actions support the CAP, but are not quantified for GHG emissions credit: * Waste franchise agreements to reduce redundant dump truck trips throughout the County (in process as of fail 2013) * County policy to encourage, purchase of environmentally preferable products * County policy for all new County facilities to meet LEER Silver standards or its equivalency * One of the first online permit processes in the state for rooftop solar PV installation Butte County Climate Action Plan M; �iii� ISIS Summary of'Proe gease and Remaining Gap I All 11 ii the County's ability to consider an apipropriate 2030 goal in the future. 1,100,000 1,050,000 1,000,000 950,000 900,000 850,000 800,000 750,000 700,000 2006 11111111 q! 11!1111!11 1 1 !IJ!JJ II!I!!!!J! yri III I mm,,,��.Z 2012 2015 2020 1,015,260 91 l,630 883,220 774,890 — • 2006 Baseline —2020 Forecast 1 2020 Forecast Adjusted with Local and State Acbvkies — — G H G Reduction Targets MM, Butte, CoAction Plar AddressiCauses of Chinate Change This chapter provides a s,trategy to achieving community and government operations GHG reduction goals. result, to reduce GHG emissions. Anticipated Emissions Reductions The reduction measures included in this chapter identify actions that can be impemented to reduce emissions and achieve the 15% reduction goal by 2020. Strategies focus on agriculture, renewable energy generation, and voluntary energy efficiency upgrades to achieve most GHG reductions. T'able 10 summarizes anticipated emissions, reductions in 2020, Appendix B provides simiIar detail for 20,30 reductions. Implementing the CAP would reduce community emissions 16.2% be,loiw 2006 levels by 2020, allowing Butte ~ X-J-10-OMIXADMA 1141114�� MORM" ;--'W* URI a* M9ftqZt*--A� es from energy efficiency and! renewable energy measures, although reduction measures in all sectors are needed to, meet and exceed the 2020 goal. Butte County Climate Action Plan Mull M Table 10: Anticipated 2020 Emissions Reductions from Climate . . . . .. . . . ... . . .. ............ . ...................................... Action Plan Measures . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . .................. . ................... ..... . .............. . .... . ..... ........... . . . . .... . ...... .... . . . . . . . ....................... . . 2020 MTCO2e, .......... 2006 baseline emissions .. ......... ...... .... ..... ... . ............ .... . . . . . .......... . ........... ................. . . ..... . .............. . 911,630 2020 emissions forecast with state and local reductions — - - --------------- . ....... . .. .. 883,220 Emery q efficiency and renewable energy measures .......... . ..... .... .. . . -89,420 Alternative fuei ve�hicies and equi ment measures . . .... . ......... -1,730 Transportation measures . . ........... . . . - 1,840 Agriculture measures . .. ......... . . . ........... . .......... . .................. -14,380 Solid waste measures ............. . . .. . -12,170 Total reductions from CAP measures . . . . . . ........... . .. . ............. . . .. . . . . .... . . .......... ................. . . . . -1119,540 2020 emissions with CAP763,680 . . . . ... . ...... ...... . .... . ................... . . ...................... . . . ---I Percentage reduction below 20106 -16.2% -20,000 -40,000 -60,000 0 -80,000 -100,000 -120,000, -140,000 M: Butte County Climate Action Plan � N I Energy efficiency and renewable energy (EN) Alternative fuel vehicles and equipment (F) Transportation (T) Agriculture, (AG:) Solid waste W Government operations (GO) the general purpose for each focus, area. Measures addres:s specific topics within each focus area at a greater I level of detail than objectives. Actions provide specific detailed steps to implement the measure. Objectives, measures, and actions were developed using an iterative process that considers specific opportunities and constraints in B,utte County, stakeholder input, and regional best practices. Figure I I identifies some considerations that were incorporated into the reduction measures. Emissions reduction estimates have been calcuilated for each measure for the year 2020. The emissions reduction benefit of each measure is determined by changes in operationi, activity, or efficiency. The 2006 iiiptric-i y�rnvicle, slecifir- levels f*r 1. Cont'gect t'voaieowrier tofitimncing and msources ;r,#,vtrofits,, Most residential buildings in the county depend on electricity and natural gas for heating and cooling. Older buildings often require more energy to heat and cool houses due to inefficient building materials such as single -pane windows, insufficient insulation, and old heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. Although residential retrofits often pay for themselves with reduced energy bills, few residents have the extra money necessary to pay upfront costs. This measure identifies actions to assist Butte County homeowners to secure financing, rebates, and other resources to retrofit their homes, Actions: Participate in a program to provide additional low-cost financing for energy retrofits in Butte County to supplement available rebates, from programs such as Energy Upgrade California and the California Home Energy Retrofit Opportunity (HERO) program administered by the Western Riverside Council of Governments. Host booths at home fairs. Encourage home remodels or additions to achieve California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) compliance, by promoting available financing programs such as Energy Upgrade California or other local rebate programs. Provide pamphlets, on financing programs with permits. Partner with local contractors to promote retrofits in the low-income housing stock through weatherization programs. 2020 GHG Reduction: -3,200 MTCO2e Who's Responsible: D County: Participates in and promotes program NUS Others: 4,920 households participate in a retrofit program (20% of single-family homes built before 2006) Community Benefits: jfKxuces Energy Costs Protects Natural Resources Improves Habitabilit�l EN2. Aroirr,�u)tei rq �Sidklrp�ldal �(,:ntwflalt,;ce DO 1116all- It 11 1 NEW- M, 5MM I d5 LUU e�), lell 97MO�!), d11U TRJeTIMUFI�" 111UFU CMUf2HL dfflIdIlLt�N It24,191FU [C:)b [Utfl 1U1 operation, saving residents, money and lowering emissions across the county. This measure promotes tht purchase of ENERGY STAR and other energy-efficient appliances. Actions: I M. Butte County Climate Action Plan Promote ENERGY STAR or energy-efficient appliances with County outreach materials including existing home improvement programs, rebate programs, and program monitoring. Who's Responsible: 6 County. Tracks and promotes appliance upgrades Is Others: 3,940 households participate in appliance upgrades (20% of homes built by 1990) 2020 GHG Reduction: -1,560 MTCO2e Com m u n it Benefits: Protects Natural Resources, 611,1 1, Connect to finicnricing and resaurces, for retirot",i"ts. Low-income households are especially sensitive to energy costs because they generally occupy older, more energy -inefficient housing units and spend a larger proportion, of their income on energy. By assisting with low-income hou!sehold retrofits, the County can simultaneously reduce emissions and increase low-income families' capacity to maintain safe and comfortable households despite volatile energy prices and increasing temperatures. Actions: * Work with nonprofits to identify highest opportunities for a successful low-income program. * Encourage workforce training programs, to provide free weatherization services to qualified households. * Partner with workforce training programs such as Living Elements and Valley Contractors Exchange. * Leverage federal funding for home improvements, such as Community Development Bdlock Grants (CDBG), to improve the energy efficiency and livability of Butte County's lowest -income households. Who's Responsible: * County: Coordinates and promotes program * Others: 1,310 low-income households undergo weatherization (10%of low-income households) 2020 GHG Reduction., -3001 MTCO,e Community Benefits: REMMIRMIYAM Protects Natural Resources Mzz- .« * � tutte Cou!nty Climate Action Plan M EIV,14. Support retroflts M) ensting &fvitlfi) aln et'nphasis oln ifixilk"ies In Butte County, nonresidential buildings use electricity and natural gas for heating, cooling, lighting, and other functions. Lacking extensive business license records, it is critical that the County initiate, maintain, and enhance collaborative partnerships with local businesses to achieve energy efficiency and economic development objectives. This measure seeks to increase long-term profitability and viability of businesses, with an emphasis on the manufacturing sector, by facilitating energy efficiency retrofit financing and rebate opportunities. Actions: Develop a voluntary educational program and business inventory to identify energy- and cost-saving opportunities, Promote Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing in partnership with the local chambers of commerce, utilities, and local businesses. Partner with utilities and local business leaders to connect local businesses with advanced rebates and assistance for energy retrofits. For example, the County may collaborate with PG&E to map local high energy users and guide County outreach in collaboration with PG&E. Conduct an annual awards event to highlight local businesses completing retrofits and saving energy, Who's Responsible: County: Operates educational program and promotes collaboration Others: 80 businesses participate in retrofits and/or retrocomissioning (42% of businesses in nonagricultural or food processing sectors) 20,20 GHG Reduction: -2,130 MTCO,e Community Benefits: Promotes Business Reduces Energy Costs Protects Natural Resources ENS. mvftf�P.Idlity, p1ro"viders to ermomrage alappliance j,,,,,ypgrades. Businesses use electricity and natural gas to power appliances ranging from chillers and ovens in restaurants and computers in offices to machinery in factories, Efficient appliances require less fuel for successful operation, saving businesses money and lowering emissions across the county. Measure EN5 promotes the purchase of ENERGY STAR and other energy-efficient appliances. Actions: Track the number of energy-efficient or smart -grid -integrated appliances installed in new development and major nonresidential remodels through the County's permit tracking system. Work with third -party providers and utility companies to provide low- to no -cost rebates and incentives for nonresidential appliances and equipment. Who's Responsible: 1, County: Tracks and promotes appliance upgrades fall Others: 301 businesses upgrade appliances (20% of businesses built by 2012) 2020 GHG Reduction: -620 MTCO,e Community Benefits: Promotes Business Reduces Energy Costs Protects Natural Resources EA16. Aroyir,,,�otepro�,�,,,,yrw,irju and orp-she sohw FIV' hristallations Acw and farifitles to i''rioprove operatior,�Is and profitability Activities related to the agricultural sector such as rice drying and agricultural processing are among the highest energy consumers in the county. PG&E reports estimate that in 2006, agriculture and food processing facilities accounted for approximately 48% of nonresidential kWh and 78% of nonresidential therms in Butte County. High energy use can be one of the top line items in a company's operating expenses. Since agriculture and related sectors are critical components of the local economy, this measure directs the County to work with businesses to understand their energy needs and potential for savings, and then to collaboratively identify strategies to maximize efficiency. This measure also provides the opportunity for businesses and County staff to work with PG&E to develop locally tailored, cost-effective energy reduction actions that meet the needs of Butte County industries, including rice dryers and businesses with other energy -intense agricultural processing facilities. Additionally, the county includes large areas of non -prime land and facilities with: large roof surfaces ideally suited for siting of solar PV panels. As part of this measure, the County will simplify the process for agricultural operations to provide their own electricity using solar PV by streamlining projects limited to 5 acres of PV per parcel or equivalent roof space, Measure EN1 1 further, outlines the County's efforts to streamline renewable energy through development of a solar PV overlay, based on future technical studies, to identify appropriate renewable energy sites. Partner with PG&E to develop a localized, energy -efficiency outreach effort for agricultural processing industries reflecting characteristics of local: operations and available financing, Provide resources on rebates and financing for appliances and equipment upgrades through stakeholder outreach, including collaboration with utility companies such as PG&E. Connect third -party energy -efficiency providers to provide free to low-cost equipment to eligible businesses and large energy users. Butte County Climate Action Plan Adopt a solar energy overlay zone to simplify the installation of solar PV in non -prime farmland that would serve on-site agricultural and manufacturing uses. The overlay will expedite, the development of solar PV in, high opportunity areas while protecting prime farmland and other environmental resources. Solar PV would be limited to 51 acres or less per parcel, consistent with the Butte County Zoning Code. Who's Responsible: * County: Provides education and expedites solar installations * Others: 34 food processing operations implement energy efficiency measures, and up to 600 acres of rooftops and non -prime agricultural land install solar PV (0,20% of agricultural) land or rooftops used for solar panels) 2020 GHG Reduction: -70,770 MTC0,e Community Benefits: Supports Agriculture Expands Alternative Energy Reduces Energy Costs 10,`, a 7, EfICOUrage tiews"wnresidenthal btiildlngs to nrwet e,ir�d exceed ff,"A/L,Greer,,, standards fcIIw ent,"ergy ef 1"Idenc.".!6 Ivvmtilew conservation, and passive design. Although there is an upfront cost to design and build more energy- and water -efficient buildings, such efforts result in lower operating costs for the life of the structure. This measure encourages efficient new buildings through, outreach and opportunities to mitigate environmental impacts. Actions: * Update development checklists and provide guidelines to support optimal energy efficiency. * Educate builders through working group meetings and CALGreen workshops. * Partner with local buflding supply stores to promote cost-effective materials that would help achieve CALGreen Tier 1. * Seek grants or external funding to reduce building permit costs for buildings that meet CALGreen Tier 1. Identify CALGreen Tier I or 2 standards as preferred mitigations for the environmental impacts of new nonresidential projects. Maintain voluntary CALGreen Tier I standards as an option for new buildings. Who's Responsible: * County: Promotes energy-efficient building progiram * Others: 127,710 new nonresidential square feet built to CALGreen Tier 1 (12% of new nonresidential square footage) 2020 GHG Reduction: -20 MTCO2e E0,48. IE,",xPand �tfistfiNuted gei;eraflfcmi, relri)ewable er),wrg,�y symrenis 1k,'Pr jrww residervillal developtrkervt. This measure is a blend of regulatory streamlining efforts intended to increase renewable energy generation in new residential development sites. The measure focuses on the renewable energy siting potential of large, master-planined communities. County staff works with developers as master -planned communities proceed through plan review, providing excellent opportunities to discuss appropriate renewable energy siting. This measure also provides actions to expand the County's efforts to encourage renewable energy system installations within single-family and multi -family development projects. Encourage all new discretionary development projects consisting of more than: 500 residential uinits to achieve zero net energy using solar PV and high-effidency construction. * Offer expedited processing for developers providing on-site solar, such as participants in the state's Homebuyer Solar Program. * Encourage all new discretionary multi -family developments to offer solar options or provide off-site power purchase agreements, following the Homebuyer Solar Program. County: Expedites processing and promotes program Others: 900 new households constructed to net -zero energy standards (13% of all new households constructed', by 2020) Expands Alternative Energy Reduces Energy Costs Protects NaturA Resources EN9, dl[�ofi,ributed ge#,iwration bri, new �rwn reside n tial deveh,;prnen, to reduce on--sh,v t)jse. This measure provides actions to incentivize renewable energy installations on new nonresidential projects, as they progress through the permitting process. Incentives, streamlined review, expedited processing, and pre - wiring could increase the amount of renewable energy sited in new nonresidential buildings in the county. Butte County Climate Action Plan New nonresidential developments are also encouraged to maximize roof space in anticipation of future solar PV. These actions will remove barriers to installing solar PV on nonresidential buildings that are most likely to realize benefits from on-site energy. Financing for solar PV can be accomplished through initial construction financing, and could reduce utility bills for eneirgy-intense industries. Actions: * Adopt incentives to encourage distributed generation systems, targeting large projects most likely to benefit from on-site energy, including large nonresidential development greater than 10,000 square feet, * Streamline administrative review process to determine exemptions. * Offer expedited processing for developers providing on-site solar. Ro Encourage new nonresidential development, subject to discretionary review, to prewire, for solar PV systems and to maximize roof space to accommodate future rooftop solar installations. Who's Responsible: & County: Encourages solar PV and expedites processing IF Others: 440 kW of new nonresidential solar PV potential 2020 GHG Reduction: -110 MTCO,e Community Benefits. Expands Alternative Energy Promotes Business Reduces Energy Costs EN 10. Eticaur'P;,�ge the OF tMrotlighout the Whereas measures EN8 and EN9 focus on solar PV in new development, this measure supports solar PV in existing development through additional actions to help residents and businesses install renewable energy installations on existing buildings. The County will achieve this by streamlining the permit review process and tying permit costs to the size of the proposed installation. Actions: * Revise the permit fee to reflect size of PV installation. * Streamline the review and approval of solar PV panels through online permitting and easily accessible educational materials. Who's Responsible: 0 County: Facilitates program & Others: 1,400 pre -2006 homes with solar PV arrays (4% of homes built before 2006), and 27,000 kW of sodlar PV on pre -2006 nonresidential buildings or sites 2020 GH G Reduction: -9,070 MTCO,e � =,, Butte County Climate Action Plan Expands Alternative Energy Promotes Business Reduces Energy Costs EN IL, Adopt cv suph,,ir, P11 energy, overh""'fy Zane. This measure directs the County to conduct a study and consider amendments to the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance to facilitate the GHG reduction benefits from so,lar PV Installation identified in measure EN6. These actions build on Butte County's proactive efforts to promote solar PV. Butte County was an early advocate of solar PV locally and throughout the state. The County was an early adopter of online and committee, assisting OPR in the development of the Califomia Solar Permitting Guidebook. Through this measure, County staff will take a further step to expand, solar PV projects through a solar energy overlay zone. environmental analysis necessary to adopt an overlay allowing for simplified permit procedures. The overlay would facilitate clevelopment of solar PV on rooftops, non -prime agricultural lands, and other areas with minimal impacts on agricultural and natural resources. This measure will support energy users in the cpctors Ttiost likelv to benefit from, on-site solar. The measure also _C0111L - supports Generai Man FoliCyl�WJ AJ. 1, MUL11 MmU, LiFe for the production of energy using local renewable resources. County staff will initiate development oif an overlay zone, as directed by this measure, Actions below are prime tarmiand designed to serve on-site agricuitural anU -processing Uses. r011UW1n5 UedtIVII UE LM2 UFCIICIJ zone through the steps outlined below, County staff will implement the overlay pursuant to the actions identified in Measure EN6. Actions: Amend the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance with: a solar PV energy overlay zone to designate and protect areas for the prioritization of solar energy resources. Adopt standards to encourage, the development of solar PV energy while protecting environmental resources, streamlining the review of solar energy projects, and expediting the development of solar energy in close proximity to transmission facilities. Complete the technical and environmental studies necessary to support preparation of the solar PV energy overlay zone, consistent with General Plan Action Item COS -A3„1'. During development of technical and environmental studies, evaluate the feasibility of a Community Choice Aggregation program as directed by General Plan Action, Item COS -A3.11 Who's Responsible: ,a County: Adopts amendments to planning documents, and prepares supporting studies 2020 GHG Reduction: Supportive Butte County Climate Action Plan � MM Expands Alternative Energy Reduces Energy Costs Protects Natural Resources r. low NO efficient and by transitioning to alternative fuel sources to power equipment, This focus area identifies best practices and opportunities to increase use of alternative fuels and fuel-efficient vehicles and equipment. F1 E;cipand the use of alternative ae'0 ch,,)*an-h,,w1 vrelhddes. Transportation accounted for almost 30% of 2006 community baselIine emissions, Alternative fueled vehicles produce fewer GHG emissions, but tend to have substantial barriers to entry for most households, This measure provides actions to lower those barriers to entry by facilitating and expanding the use of alternative and clean -fuel vehicles. Support use of neighborhood electric vehicles, such as 10W -speed golf courts or other personal neighborhood electrical vehicles. Encourage new nonresidential buildings, subject to discretionary review, to provide electric vehicle prewiring or conduit. County: Supports and promotes program Others: 870 households with a neighborhood electric vehicle (2% of homes), and 15 public EV charging stations Protects Natural Resources F'2., Coordinate mvith the Mitle C ouimitjv Ahr, Quallift,,p, Disfirict to adopt cons truel,tian triRrigrydoin reqyuirf Heavy construction equipment and machinery tend to be large GHGI emitters as well as emitters of criteria air pollutants, which have health impacts on surrounding residents. Certain operating procedures can reduce engine runningtime without affecting productivity. This measure provides management practices to help construction equipment operators reduce fuel use and cut emissions. Actions: Applicants for projects subject to discretionary review shall be encouraged to choose one of the following: Reduce construction equipment idling to 3 minutes, As practical, use dean or alternative fuel equipment. Who's Responsible: * County: Facilitates program * Others: Half (50%) of new commercial equipment operated in the county to achieve a 40% reduction in idling time 2020 GHG Reduction: -500 MTCO,e Community Benefits: F1, lr�nphe#'ner) t prograirr)s ar�)d ul ,f.pdate standarcf�,.; fi,,,or new iresidentiad deveh,,,),p,,rneirn to v,ippoll,t fuel effidency in arul giarderequi,;,,menti. Although the fuel used by each resident and property owner to maintain their lawn and garden seems small, the cumulative impact across the county is large (over 17,000 MTCO,e per year in 2006). This measure provides actions to facilitate the purchase of more efficient fossil fuel or electric lawn and garden equipment, as well as to promote electric vehicle (EV) charging within, private households. Actions: Encourage electric vehicle, outlets on external walls or in garages in all new residential development, subject to discretionary review. Simplify electrical permitting processes for electric vehicle charging. Work with the BCAQMD to provide an appliance tirade -in program for residential lawn and garden equipment. Who's Responsible: ,a County: Promotes program and provides education Butte County Climate Action Plan = Others: 4,210 lawn mowers and leaf blowers traded in for elec�tdc models (20% of lawn mowers and leaf Ni and 340 households with an EV charging stations (2% of new household�s) Community Benefits: Protects Natural Resources Improves Public Health Improves HabitabillIA Transportation is the largest nonagricultural source of emissions in the county; a substantial portion: of these emissions come from employee commutes, Although transportation is a large emissions sector, achieving emissions reductions in transportation is challenging in a large, dispersed rural community where residents and employees largely rely on autos for daily trips. The County has adopted General Plan policies to support more compact land use patterns and encourage alternative travel modes. Recognizing the challenges inherent to the transportation sector, this CAP supplements adopted General Plan policies and identifies one additional program to reduce emissions from work-related travel and resulting emissions. I'l.ecte al tro,,uPspo,,,,n1adon ftr,'�)r bu,,Ydnesses thrmught"),ca Rgitti,'? ("I mnnily composeii,,l ofreqUhrerney# i's 1,,(or err),iployars �,vifh rrn,nre than 5(,P ernployees (large alrtil vcolurrtaq actioris �Fi:)Ysn",�vfleir err�,ployelr,,,;,. The County will encourage all large employers to implement a transportation demand management (TDM) program to reduce drive -alone trips and support ridesharing,, public transit, walking, and bicycling. The County will recommend a suite of TDM strategies that each large employer may implement, including but not limited to transit subsidy passes, employer rideshare assistance, transit and bicycle subsidies, emergency ride home services, telecommute/flex commute options, and car- and bike -sharing solutions. Actions: 0 Work in collaboration with BCAGI and local chambers of commerce to promote TDM strategies. Develop guidelines for Butte County that recommend appropriate TD,M strategies for local businesses. Develop an informational brochure highlighting employer -based TDM strategies with available programs and provide as outreach to local businesses. Encourage existing employers and small, employers to participate in TDM. Createan annual survey to track employee commute trends for all participating businesses. Connect employers with regional transit resources and partners, working with partners such as the Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG) and Butte Regional Transit. Provide facilities for carpooling and park and ride programs and facilities such as the park and ride lot adjacent to the OrovIlle Veterans Memorial Hall. Butte County Climate Action Plan Who's Responsible: RD County: Monitors program, provides education, creates guidelines, and facilitates collaboration 41, Others: 330 participating employees (4% of employees in the unincorporated county) Unrlim- Agriculture is an important GHG emissions source to be considered and quantified at the local, state, and federal levels, Nationwide, agricultural activities were the single largest source of all nitrous oxide (N20) emissions, contributing almost 68% of all N,O. Further, agoutes approximately 30% of all methane (CHj emissions nationwide.' (US Environmental Protection Agency 2011). The agricultural sector is a,lso an important local leader in achieving emissions reductions, reducing emissions as part of business -as - ,usual ractice. These chan es have come as a ractical response to chanWn� demands, costs of su6 i i W -6,lies, and (-1§'H1,fCLtL11C CL.91HIF11111L :NmrC7"M GHG savings for the County, as outlined below. Quantifying GHG emissions reductions in this sector also of agriculture land can be up to 100 times less GHG intensive as an acre of developed urban land. With these optimal practices, agricultural production has been thriving. The total estimated gross value of agriculture production in Butte County for 2012 totaled $721,434,000, a $77.3 million -plus, increase over the 2011 gross value. The 2012 year gross value also represents a 451% increase above the County I 0 -year average 7 of $497,000,000. AG T, hrrwlemerj�t ixst;)�rtxfkes in Methane emissions from organ:ic decomposition are generated in rice fields while they are harvested and drainedi, following flood-irrigatio,n during the growing, period. Numerous efforts are currently under way to better understand and reduce emissions associated with rice farming. The California Air, Resources Board (CARB) is currently developing an emissions offset protocol for riceadopted, the protocol would provide a method for farmers to verify and sell offset credits for implementing best practices that reduce emissions. Such a program could provide additional revenue for rice farmers. The US Department of Agriculture also operates a Rice Experiment Station to investigate and pilot new practices. These efforts US Environmental Protection Agency 2011, Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2011. �.e a. 7 Butte County Office of Agricultural Commission Weights and Measures 2013. Butte County Agricultural Crop Report - 2012. Butte County Climate Action Plan INMAN provide resources for Butte County rice farmers to learn more about improving crop practices while reducing emissions. Actions: 0 Collaborate with the USDA Rice Experiment Station to support best practices in rice farming. Monitor the state's efforts to develop an offset protocol for rice cultivation projects. Encourage the Butte County Rice Growers Association to promote optimal rice cultivation practices that maintain high yields and reduce GHG emissions. Who's Responsible: 0 County: Promotes best practices and provides information for farmers It Others: Continue research and investigate new practices 2020 GHG Reduction: Supportive Community Benefits: Supports, Agriculture Protects Natural Resources, AG2. Rechuce the of burned ac,,,�wicxdtwruI residy,#e Agricultural burning is the practice of using fire to reduce or dispose of vegetative debris from an agricultural activity. Common agricultural burning practices include field -burning large, areas of crop residue after harvest to reduce excess plant material, to control crop diseases, weeds, or pests, or to maintain crop yields; disposing of piles of agricultural debris (e.g., orchard trees, limbs, haystacks), and clearing vegetation from irrigation ditches and canals. in 2006, approximately 24,000 tons of material was burned in Butte County, primarily associated with orchards and rice. Since 2006, a reduction has already occurred based on changes in farming practices and crop types (e.g., increased chipping). This measure provides an opportunity to account for the associated (AHC reductions from these changes, which are also anticipated to continue in future years. Actions: Support BCAQMD permitting efforts to reduce residue burn. Connect agricultural operators to cost-effective chipping or other group options for disposing agricultural waste. Investigate interest and feasibility for development of centralized chipping programs in coordination with other green, waste efforts at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. Encourage the processing of agricultural waste products into buildingmaterials and biofuels. Who's Responsible: County: Supports B,CAQMD, connects operators, and encourages less burning Others: 484 fewer tons of residue burned per year from almond and walnut acreage = Butte County Climate Action Plan Supports, Agriculture Improves Public Health AGJ, OptJ`lini e the ehficjienq,�,(l 1fd water iiririgadaint pnrlwfices tht,o(t,igh afternairivt irrigatior; enargy satirces. There are approximately 500 diesel -powered pumps located throughout Butte County, which are used for water irrigation. In 2006, these pumps were responsible for approx�imately 28,000 MTCO,e, making up almost M16.611r. Sitce ?_00i. use -4f solizr-*,owered -*umos h?s ste,;,kdilv incre,-i-sec!Jn�Countv F, - ,Ijplmm 10611 41111111 1 NINE! 1.1111INVE MIN more affordable and practical. UU17117" Develop a local amnesty program to register all agricultural pumps throughout the county and support BCAQMD efforts. Promote rebate opportunities for solar PV -powered pump equipment through the Farm Bureau and with other agricultural partners. Who's Responsible: County: Supports BCAQMD, develops program, and promotes rebates Others: 120 agricultural pumps are converted from diesel to solar power 2020 GHG Reduction: -7,070 MTCOC 2e Community Benefits: IW r AG4, Inriprove of agricultural vehicles to re& n,:e if"alel Farm equipment is essential to various agricultural practices (e.g., plowing, planting, tilling). Most farm equipment is gasoline- or- diesel -fuelled, and farm equipment in Butte Couinty emitted approximately 74,000 MTCO2e in 2006, composing almost 17% of the agriculture sector. According to air district guidance in California, typiical best management practices (e.g., maintaining equipment in proper working order) can result in a 5% reduction in emissions. This measure promotes and supports fuel efficienicy in farm equipment resulting in both cost savings and GHG reductions. rutte County Climate Action Plan MIN Actions: 0 Promote best practices in agricultural equipment maintenance. 0 Collaborate with the BCAQMD to publicize rebates for improvements. 0 Provide materials promoting the transition to consolidated farm equipment. Who's Responsible: * County: Promotes best practices and provides materials, collaborates with the BCAQMD * Others: 50% of agricultural vehicle fleet improves, fuel efficiency by 5% 2020 GHG Reduction: -1,860 MTCO,e Community Benefits: A Inrip leriri) ','`n1lbb t p ra in 1"o,,! (r, a n d p es ticide v(s e Fertilizer and pesticides are used to achieve desired plant growth and production. Their use results in approximately 100,000 MTCO,e per year, making up more than 23% of the agricultural sector. Since 2006, a reduction has already occurred in this subsector based on changes in farming practices. This measure provides the opportunity to account for the associated GHG reductions from these changes, which are also anticipated to increase in future years. Action: 0 Collaborate with stakeholders to, support the efficient use of fertililizer. Who's Responsible: * County: Provides information and promotes program to farmers * Others: Decrease fertilizer use by 1,330 fewer tons (5% from existing amounts) 2020 GHG Reduction: -4,660 MTCO,e Community Benefits- HFJH�� AG6. a on, agrilcUlf"Llral czrsd thn"i ber lan d. GARB has adopted an offset protocol for livestock projects and is currently developing an offset protocol for rice cultivation. Offset protocols provide a method for farmers to sell verified offset credits for approved practices that reduce emissions. Credits could be sold in the state auction for the cap -and -trade, or through other offset programs such as the American Carbon Registry and the Climate Action Reserve. The County will also encourage local efforts to further, incentivize GHG reductions through, a local offset program. The County willl work with the BCAQMD and other potential stakeholders to gauge local interest and feasibility. Such efforts would build on the state's offset protocol, working to further incentivize local agricultural operations to reduce GHG emissions. Actions: 10 Monitor opportunities for a local program, pending action by CARR. 10 Investigate opportunities with the BCAQMD and agricultural stakeholders. Who's Responsible: 10 Couinty: Support program development. 10 Others: Collaborate with County to investigate program feasibility 2020 GHG Reduction: Supportive Community Benefits: Supports Agriculture Protects Natural Resources While waste disposal is an essential activity in the county, disposing solid waste also generates GHG emissions. The effects of landfilled waste can be reduced through technical advances in methane capture systems and a decrease in the amount of landfilled waste. ctue rate at t1w Neal Road 1"?ecyc-1/f1� and blfAcute Faciffty,, The Butte County Public Works Department operates the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility, where most solid waste generated in Butte County is landfilled. GHG emissions occur in landfills as organic materials in the waste decompose and release methane. The LGOP estimates that the average US landfill captures approximately 75% of generated methane, allowing 25O/o to escape to the atmosphere. The County captures methane for energy generation, thus, reducing methane that escapes to the atmosphere. This measure provides actions to continue aggressively capturing methane and to conduct a study that verifies the current capture rate. Butte County Climate Action Plan = As discussed in Chapter 2, the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility collects solid waste from incorporated and unincorporated communities in the county, as well as from some sources outside of the county,. The community inventory and forecast accounts for emissions by landfilled waste originating from the unincorporated county. This reduction measure gives credit for the methane captured from those emissions. In contrast, measure G09 captures full credit for all methane, captured at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility, including methane generated by waste from incorporated cities. This approach reflects the County's operational control of the entire landfill, regardless of the origin of waste. Actions: Continue to monitor landfill gas emissions. Expand the collection system as, needed to comply with provisions of the Landfill Methane Rule (AB 32). Extend the long-term landfill gas purchase, agreement as appropriate at the conclusion of the current agreement. Research and develop conversion technology that results in increased capture of methane associated with organic waste. Who's Responsible. County: Operates and maintains landfill gas purchase agreements, researches additional opportunities Others. Key partners support the County with research and pilot technologies 2020 GH G Reduction: -6,160 MTCO,e Community Benefits: Expands Alternative Energy 1A, ,At,,Iop t a c oufn t wide (r,,(Jmrsicn ratr � firvge t of 75%, coris t with s fate policy, As mentioned in measure W1, decomposing landfilled waste emits methane, a potent GHG. Another way to reduce landfill -generated methane is to reduce the, amount of waste being landfilled. AB 341(2012) sets a statewide policy target of a 75% diversion rate by 2013. Measure W2 adopts that target at the county level and recommends strategies to achieve it. Actions: Adopt an ordinance identifying a 75% diversion rate target consistent with AB 341 Develop a program with haulers to track large waste generators. Under a voluntary program, certify facilities that are achieving or exceeding 50% waste diversion to achieve a 75% diversion rate by 2020. Support local facilities and programs that result in additional diversion of organic waste. W,,13 Butte County Climate Action Plan Who's Responsible: County: Adopts ordinance and supports programs to increase diversion rate to Others: Key partners develop and implement effective programs 2020 GHG Reduction., -6,01 g MTCIze CommunityBenefits: The government operations focus area is the County's opportunity to lead by example. Emissions reduction measures may also reduce the cost of County operations by decreasing energy, fuel, and other materials consumed at County facilities. 1n. „ 1,IMP�1 OVe tree@ �Q �� 1��i 1kl��„t'hl �� cind tracking. Energy costs are a substantial part of the County's annual budget. Currently, the County tracks electricity and natural gas use through several large accounts, and does not have a detailed understanding of energy use at the building or department level. A more detailed accounting describing where energy is used, can enable the County to make better energy -efficiency retrofit decisions. This measure directs the County to install submeters on prioritized buildings and incorporate submeter results into the annual facility assessment process. Actions. Develop a prioritized list of buildings to install submeters, prioritizing buildings with planned upgrades to allow for benchmarking and analysis of improvements. Consider a wide range of submeter technologies that facilitate optimal energy tracking. Develop a campus -wide plan for General Services to coordinate between all departments and install submeters at all County facilities as funding allows. Create an integrated Energy Management System (EMS) to meaningfully track energy use, analyze the costs and benefits of energy improvements, and inform the annual facility assessment process, Who's Responsible a General Services: Implements actions, and provides support and education 2020 GHG Reduction: Supportive CountyButte r Improves, Habitability Reduces Energy Costs G0:2.,equipma.,ra,, This measure establishes a o purchase cost-effective energy equipment when appropriate to reduce energy costs, eneirgy consumption, and GHG emissions. Newer, more energy-efficient appliances and equipment can reduce maintenance costs and operate more efficiently than older models. Actions: * Adopt a revised procurement manual with a policy that requires consideration of energy-efficient options such as ENERGY STAR products when purchasing new equipment. * Reduce the number of computer network servers by upgrading to virtual servers. * Install automatic thermostat controls on facilities to help regulate building temperatures, for diverse users. * Install other automatic sensors to eliminate unnecessary energy use in energy and lighting, using technologies such as plug loads, occupancy sensors, and timers. Who's Responsible: General Services: Adopts policies and carries out retrofits to, 3,00,000 square feet (30% of County government space) Others: Support upgrades 2020 GHG Reduction: -260 MTCO2e Community Benefits: G03hmriprove heating ary befildings. County to identify inefficiencies and upgrade heating and cooling systems. The County has completed energy al ic rt tliv-p- - 1 ,,, - i ............ Identify buildings with inefficient heating and cooling systems to target for replacement, commissioning projects, or climate rezoning. * Identify low-cost options to reduce space heater use and regulate building temperature. 0 Adopt a policy to implement measures to improve HVAC systems and duct networks as feasible during other maintenance and improvement activities. Who's Responsible: * General Services: Implements actions and provides information; * Others: Support actions 2020 GHG Reduction: Supportive Community Benefits: Reduces Energy Costs Improves Habitability G04. Implernent fiscal and budgeting practices that hmprove eriepr,gy effidermy. The energy saved from conservation and efficiency efforts may result in savings on electricity and natural gas bills. The money saved can be used to fund further efficiency efforts. This measure establishes a process for the County to invest energy savings in further energy efficiency retrofits. Each year during the County's budget development process, the General Services Department shall propose improvements to County facilities that achieve efficiency and reductions. Continue to implement energy-efficient improvements to County facilities in a manner that maximizes federal and state funding participation. Who's Responsible: M General Services: Recommends and implements actions & Others: Support actions 2020 G,HG Reduction: Supportive Community Benefits: G05. habftebAwa hty 0 , ,�, at, C tt 9' cost,!�,;,. Facility audits provide the County with information to, invest in high -yield energy efficiency projects. This measure directs the County to audit facilities and invest in retrofit and other energy -efficiency projects, building on a 2011 energy audit of the government center campus that identified 19 actions with energy savings. Butte County Climate Action Plan = U, Work with utility providers to complete, free to low-cost audits of County facilities and identify project opportunities. Adopt a policy that alll roof maintenance shall include the use of energy-efficient and cool roof materials. Who's Responsible: 10 General Services: Facilitates program and provides educational opportunities Others: Support program C'ommunity Benefits: Reduces Energy Costs Improves Habitability (',106. Redg,ice A�J el use in the Coi.)nrj� ty fleet'. Fuel used by the County vehicle fleet accounted': for approximately 14% of 2006 government operations emissions. This measure identifies opportunities for the County to reduce fuel consumption through alternative fuel options for light- and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, building on previous efforts such as the purchase of hybrid cars and reports on vehicle use. Actions: Track options for alternative fuel vehicles and equipment. Continue to review options through the Fleet Committee. Implement CARD standards with replacement of the County's heavy-duty diesel vehicles (>14,000 lb). Who's Responsible: 0 Fleet Services Division: Supports and promotes reductions in fleet fuel use lb Others: 65,400 fewer gallons of fuel used annuafly by the County fleet in 2020 2020 GHG Reduction: -450 MTCO,e Community Benefits: Reduces Energy Costs Protects Natural Resources 9 M Butte County Climate Action Plan Reduce ends'siolras fivai en;Ipployee corrnr,�wa,,,�,�?s /it eririathve tratrel optioms ar))d th"e mse of deelzr��ff hiels, The employee commutes and trave,l:l, sector was the, largest non -landfill contributor to 200government operations emissions (20% of total emissions). This measure identifies opportunities to reduce commute and travel emissions. Actions: * Conduct an annual survey to track employee commute patterns, and provide an award to departments with the highest percent participation in commuter or public transit programs. * Consider meeting and conferringi with employee groups to provide vouchers or subsidized bus passes to employees that use public transit or participate in carpool or commuter programs. * Work with BCAG and the BCAQMD to identify available funding sources. 111D Aim to provide at least one electric vehicle charging station at the County campus. Who's Responsible: It Development Services: Conducts surveys and promotes programs Is Human Services: Meets and confers about process 10 Others: BCAG and BCAQMD support and participate in programs 2020 GHG Reduction: Supportive Community Benefits: Protects Natural Resources (,"1�08. C,(:,wstfrIi ii �,. t n eviv, to iild ifin �,,ys to AL,Green Tier[ st(rindartis New County buildings, have the potential to set an example for the community while saving energy for the life of the structure. This measure requires new County buildings to be more energy efficient than minimum code requirements, consistent with General Plan Policy COS -2.3, which requires new and renovated County buildings to meet green building standard's. Action: In addition to meeting LEEK Silver standards (or equivalent) as required by General Plan COS -P2.3, new County facilities exceeding 3,000 square feet shall meet CALGreen Tier 1 standards for energy efficiency, a 15% improvement over minimum energy standards. Who's Responsible: General Services: Implements and promotes standards in 60,000 square feet of building space (1001% of new County facilities). Butte County Climate Action Plan MIN 0 Others: Support standards 2020 GHG Reduction: -10 MTCO,e Community Benefits: Reduces Energy Costs G09. Redawce ia,'wthmrie ennhssions hr'om'Nfi e Neal Road Recyclirigcu,'W Waste F"adifty. This measure applies the GHG reduction benefits quantified in measure WI to government operations. The reductions for government operations are larger than the community reductions because they include methane emissions from waste that originated in all areas of the county, including incorporated cities. Action 4 Set a goal to achieve a total methane capture rate of 90% at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. Who's Responsible: 0 Waste Management Division: Captures 90% oaf methane from the Neal Road facility 101, Others: Support program 2020 GHG Reduction: -9,570 MTC2e Community Benefits: Reduces Energy Costs Protects Natural Resources GO 10. Perrticii�r:pate hj�, a or J"�[#"cqrarn to proirpote, cindsujppaelt coennt"I ,)" Through its innovative sustainability work, the County is in a position to act as, a positive example for the community. Public information campaigns and awards for County accomplishments can raise community awareness of and prompt action to support sustainability. Actions: 4identify a no -cost program for the County to provide resources for energy efficiency, clean energy, and other sustainability efforts. Opportunities include the Beacon Award Program and the CoolCalifornia Challenge. [2L "SQVIMIL19.10IMP1,24 ",- 10,71411,71M.214 M1101 Mimi 144 111arOITALTr4 dKolvil olt'l *11 = Butte County Climate Action Plan Consider creation of an ongoing County SustainaWlity Team consisting of representatives from each department that will support CAP implementation. Who's Responsible: General Services: Promotes County sustainability efforts Others: Support actions 2020 GHG Reduction: Supportive Community Benefits: Progress ls The County's General Man calls for the County to set GFIG reduction goals for 2020 and 2030 consistent with state giulidance and to id o achieve the 2020 goal. This chapter provides a policy framework that can achieve the County's 2020i target, setting a trajectory for future and continued emissions reductionis. gure 12 summarizes GHG reductions by quantified measure for 2020i and 2030. Although it is, not the focus of this CAP to close the 2030 gap, this information provides the County with a scope describing what needs to be accomplished. The CAP is projected to reduce 203:0 community emissions by approximately 182,3201 MTCO2e, resulting in a new emissions forecast of 733,240 MTCO2e. The County would still need to, reduce 2030 emissions by approximately 201,460 MTCO2e to achieve an emissions level of 531,780 MTCO,e and maintain a trajectory toward California's 2050 emissions reduction goal. 31utte County Climate Action Plan IR I IIIIIIT IIIIIIIplipIll III III I I III I EN1: Residential retrofits 11113,200 ENT Cal Green standards 20 70 EN& Renewable energy (new residential development.) 1,640 4,380 EN9: Renewable energy (new nonresidential 110 development) 530 EN1 0: Renewable energy (existing development) "I= 9,0 6,400 Fl: Alternative and clean -fuel vehicles EN2: Residential appliances 11,560 1,540 1`2: Construction mitigation requirements 3,490 EN3: Low-income residential retrofits 300 1 660 1,190 TI: Transportation demand program EN4: Nonresidential retrofits 12,130 2,020 A2: Reduced burned agricultural residue 4,130 ENS: Nonresidential appliance upgrades 620 1117,070 1,570 A4.: Agricultural vehicle fuel use EN6,: Solar for agricultural and food processing facilities 70,7 O ENT Cal Green standards 20 70 EN& Renewable energy (new residential development.) 1,640 4,380 EN9: Renewable energy (new nonresidential 110 development) 530 EN1 0: Renewable energy (existing development) "I= 9,0 G09: Methane capture Butte County Climate Action Plan 00,740 Fl: Alternative and clean -fuel vehicles 570 1,540 1`2: Construction mitigation requirements 500 500 F3: Fuel efficiency 1 660 2,800 TI: Transportation demand program 1,840 2,020 A2: Reduced burned agricultural residue 790 790 A3: Efficient water irrigation 1117,070 7,070 A4.: Agricultural vehicle fuel use 11,860 1,860 A5: Fertilizer and pesticide best practices IM 4,660 4,660 WI: Methane capture 6,160 6,720 W2: 75% diversion rate 6,010 6,720 G02: Energy efficient equipment 260 680 G06: County fleet fuel reduction 450 1,040 G09: Methane capture Butte County Climate Action Plan 00,740 Even with efforts to mitigate GHG emissions, it is likely that climate change will have substantial effects on precipitation, tempature, and weather patterns. Butte County's location and agricultural heritage make it critically portant that the County prepare for future climate conditions. Chapter 4 outlines a strategy to reduce emissions and contribute to the global effort to slow the rate of climate change. This chapter provides strategies enabiing the county to thrive in a changing climate. The adaptation strategy presented in this chapter was developed through a rigorous process that involved assessinN vulnerability and vetting feasible, and useful strategies, as described below. Key topics for adaltation measures were develANN ed based on discuissions with numerous Count7v dexartm policy development is an; iterative process that incorporates a range of inputs, identified in Fi�gure 13. The County will implement the adaptation strategies and actions in this chapter using the work plan discussed in Chiapteir 6, which establishes time frames and responsible County departments or partners for each adaptation strategy. Butte County Climate Action Plan = Adaptation (A) Measures resilient communities with adequate public services and, facilities. Natural resources will be protected and enhanced, and the County's agriculture will continue to thrive. Hazards such as flooding and fire will be anticipated and minimized. iAc _4e est,,?.bJis%4s co4fliriff, r-exters I.Urixg he2.t wrve5.-prw.m*tin.§ ener# e�.kiency �.ni reAew?ble eAergy t* reduce peak load demand, and developing low -impact development standards to reduce stormwater runoff ind increase groundwater recharge. The County will estimate the cost and beniefit of each action and, if proven feasible, pursue each action when resources become available. A 1. Adapt to 1,ncreashrig wilitfflire fteqaiency t,'jrRd severil"y. Changes in precipitation (rain and snowfall), humidity, and temperature have the cumulative effect of Increasing conditions, where wildfires could occur with greater frequency and severity, As evidenced by the 2013 Swedes fire, Butte County has a large potential wildfire fuel source as well as homes, infrastructure, and business located within the wildland-urban interface. Through the following actions, the County seeks to gain a better understanding of wildfire vulnerability in future climate conditions and to increase the ability of structures, functions, and populatioins to adapt to changing conclitions, am,"M Monitor wildfire conditions and use wildfire projections to identify fuel reduction and fuel break sites ir. addition to those l'isted in the Butte County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). Engage key stakeholders, including local fire safe councils, to create and distribute educational materials about intensifying wildfire risks, wildfire risks in new areas, and risk reduction strategies. Amend the Zoning Ordinance to create a Fire Hazard Severity Overlay Zone with specific fuel break, defensible space, and on-site water requirements for California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)- designated high and very high fire hazard severity zones. Amend and re -adopt the overlay zone concurrent with CAL FIRE fire hazard severity zone updates. Integrate expected changes to fire hazard severity zones as a result of climate change into the Butte Unit Community Wildfire Protection Plan, the Wildfire Mitigation Action Plan, and the LHMP. A2. Prepare lbrredftxecl vvater,,�,,,;,u;'Pp1y. Changes in precipitation patterns may affect snowpack in the mountains to, the east of the county as, well as reduce groundwater recharge. Both of these effects can reduce access to drinking water and agricultural irrigation and could impact food processing operations, some of which are intense water users. Through education, efficiency, and coniservation, the following adaptation actions help Butte County prepare for a future where water may be less plentiful and more expensive. Actions: a Collaborate with Northern Sacramento Valley Integrated Regional Water Management agencies to include climate change considerations in the Integrated Regional Water Resource Management Plan (IRWRMP), Monitor climate change effects on water resources and update future I RWRMPS accordingly, 0 Support other agencies to help vulnerable populations conserve water and reduce household resource costs through income -qualified subsidies and rebates for water -efficient equipment upgrades including pump retrofits, low -flow toilets, and faucet aerators. 0 Engage key stakeholders to create and distribute educational materials that identify water sources and explain the relationship between groundwater levels and snowpack, and the costs and reliability of water, 0 Include climate change considerations in the drought section of LI-- MP updates. Work with agricultural water providers to prioritize groundwater pump energy efficiency and promote conservation efforts. Collaborate with water providers to incorporate anticipated water supply changes that may result from reduced snowpack and lower groundwater levels into agricultural management plans. Include plans for flood irrigation: serving rice crop areas south of Nelson, and groundwater sources that supply drip irrigation practices west of Chico. Al hnwre(cts;es flooding 1"reqU,,,,,,,,'mcy o"�'ind severilty,, Even though overall precipitation levels may decline under future climate conditions, it is likely that precipitation events that do occur will be more extreme. With foothills in the east draining into a large valley in the west, Butte County is already vulnerable to flooding. Increases in extreme precipitation events are likely to affect the county's most vulnerable populations and the economy through flooding and may additionally increase erosion in the long term. The actions below can, make Butte County more resilient to increases in flooding frequency and severity. Butte County Climate Action Plan = WM= a Include anticipated flooding increases in the County's National Flood Insurance Program regulatory activities for new and existing structures and drainage system maintenance. Include antic�ipated flood increase considerations in public outreach activities, including information about the stormwater management program, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), and information related to the maintenance of drainage systems. G Amend development standards to require stormwater management infrastructure in all new development, including but not limited to impervious pavement lot-cov,erage maximums, o�n-site water retention requirements, grey water storage requirements, and other Low Impact Development (LID) techniques., Develop a Lake Oroville floodling evacuation plan that anticipates changing risks from a decrease in thit Sierra snowpack and an increase in more severe rainfall events., A4. Pr,�Ttvre quickl',11 �to #',,rwre 1'equrent armi hritelnse (r.,,,,,xt#,,errie heal, evenls,,, As the climate continues to change, extreme heat events are likely to occur more frequently and last longer. Heat affects Butte County in multiple ways including effects on agricuiltura�l production, stressors to *zone in the: more urbanized areas, o%oratecl countpir, The follmwin5=2 "-MUq"W*72*=*UFWY respond to and recover quickly from extreme heat events. Incorporate anticipated extreme heat event severity and frequency into annual updates of the Butte County Emergency Operations Plan Excessive Heat Hazard Appendix. 0 Work with community organizations to provide cooling centers during extreme heat events. & Support attainment of ambient air quality standards to prevent tropospheric ozone and related public healith problems, 0 Work with partners to prioritize and leverage greening and forestry grants for urbanized unincorporated communities, Resiliency (R) Measures While the previous section provided actions to adapt to specific changes, this section identifies how agricultural, ecological, and econom;ic sectors can begin to prepare for chmate change. /1 1. IMiharme the economlicijuabifity of local ag, �ulture �,fir; a ciiianging cArInate,, Agriculture is the heart of Butte County's heritage and economy, Maintaining the economic viability of agriculture is critical to the continued health of the county. More so than in other economic sectors, agricultural success is deeply rooted in prevailing climate conditions, Changes to at access, growing season length,, and weed and pest populations are examples of a large list of changes the agricultural commun:ity may face under a changing climate. The following actions seek to provide resources to the agricultural community to make informed decisions about the future. The actions also identify secondary revenue streams and expand markets to provide Butte County farmers, additional opportunities to maintain the critical services they provide. Actions: * Provide adaptation information to the farming community using Yollo County's agricultural adaptation website as a model (http�://agadapt.ucdavis,edu/). Work with regional agricultural organizations to develop and distribute materials. At a minimum, include information about climate change effects on pests, weeds, water, and growing seasons, * Work with regional farming organizations to develop and provide risk reduction best practices for anticipated changes such: as more resilient pests, new weeds, reduced water availability, and altered growing seasons. * Encourage efficient irrigation techniques (e.g., drip lines) and fiinanciall resources to support installation (e.g., revolving loans, low interest financing, information about return on investment). Provide educational and financial assistance for farmers to transition to profitable drought-resilient hardy crop, types, Promote and support secondary revenue streams to support a strong, sustained agricultural sector including carbon offsets, agritourism, renewable energy siting, and biomass energy generation. Develop and support local agriculture markets via a "Buy Butte" campaign that designates local produce and enhances the local market. Facilitate agreements between local agricultural distributors and local schools, low-income food providers,, institutions, nonprofits such as the GRUB education program, universities, and large employers to maximize access to local healthy foods, al Provide information to low-income food benefit recipients explaining eligibility of benefits at local farmers markets. R,2.ecosys'N,?,l Butte County has a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. As ecosystems face stressors from climate change, it is important that species and communities have the opportunity to move to areas where they can thrive. The action provided below facilitates adaptive migration by incorporating cllimate change considerations into future updates of the Butte Regional Conservation Plan, Action: Work with BCAG to incorporate anticipated changes to habitat and migration corridors into updates of the Butte Regional Conservation Plan. R3: Sg,,,f s tain a th rivit-ig elcoiv, o n q, k1l at cap ltallzes� on a n gir�� con, di rior� l Just as, agriculture faces distinct challenges in a changing climate, the rest of Butte County's economy also faces numerous challenges, Actions provided below help develop an alternative energy workforce and maintain the economic viability of the region's premier recreation resource, the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. Butte County Climate Action Plan �= al''MI-M Maintain agriculture as the economic base of the county (see agriculture policies). Work with Butte College and CSU Chico and pursue grant funding to support energy contractor certification. Develop a skilled alternative energy workforce that enhances local industry and the local economy. Work with state parks to update the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area General Plan with anticipated changes to lake conditions. Participate in an economic development study for the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area that focuses on diverse economic attractors and maximizes economic resiliency. GavernirTient Resiliency (GR) Measures Just as the CNG reduction strategy in this CAP focuses on the community in general and government operations specifically, this chapter provides additional actions to increase County government's ability to adapt to climate change effects. The actions below provide a strategy to increase the resiliency of government operations as well as increase the government's ability to provide adaptation support to the unincorporated community. GR 1. Account for char�ge ei"I'((".,as ha existir'ag #[')Paratiorls. Operational measures to address climate change assess climate change vulnerabilities and sensitive populations on a regular basis. They also address climate change adaptation in planning and public safety documents, The County will integrate climate considerations into current practices to ensure ongoing consideration and evaluation of new and future risks, and include anticipated changes in extreme events (e.g., expected increase in extreme heat days, wildfires, flooding) in appropriate plans, policies, and programs as they are updated. Actions: Draw on the recently completed hazards vulnerability assessment in the County's 2013 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to prepare a comprehensive climate change vulnerability assessment that analyzes anticipated future vulnerabilities based on the changing impacts of climate change. Update the climate change vulnerability assessment Concurrently with future Ll -MP vulnerability assessments to ensure the County is analyzing both historic and future vulnerabilities. GR2. Wir,"'Irk vividw partner,,,; oto prept-we f6r, cfisrr,ate chiange. In coordination with other jurisdictions, agencies, and partners, the County can work more effectively to identify resources and approaches to respond to climate change. Regional coordination also supports more informed decision-making that minimizes hazards and protects vulnerable resources. Actions: Partner with neighboring jurisdictions and regional entities to create an ongoing monitoring program that tracks local and regional climate change effects and adaptation efforts and outcomes. Leverage mufti -benefit funding sources such as federal hazard mitigation grants. Identify partnerships, funding programs, and opportunities for assessing changing risks, such as partnerships with Chico State Institute for Sustainable Development, Butte College, and local nonprofit groups. =; Butte County Climate Action Plan Achieving the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goal by 2020 is a challenging task requiring a coordinated work effort, This chapter presents the County's work plan to achieving emissions reduction and adaptation goals, monitor implementation, and demonstrate progress. Recognizing that this Climate Action Plan (CAP) is a strategic plan that may eivolve over time, this work plan provides an initial framework and a means for County staff to revisit CAP measures and respond to new opportunities or successes. NERNMI The County will integrate CAP measures and actions into existing policies and programs, including revising other local and regional plans, developing new programs, and initiating new activities. Cou�nty staff will also implement new steps to maintain this CAP as a useful tool, as described below. Measures and a,ctionis, in the CAP identify amendments to existing codes, policies, and documents or programs. As the County moves forward with Zoning Ordinance, updates, specific plansi, Housing Element u dates and other lannin n Butte County Climate Action Plan =1 will seek to maximize the benefit of limited resources by working closely with Butte County cities and regional agencies. The Butte County Department of Development Services (DDS) will act as the lead agency to implement the CAP'. DDS staff will! report on CAP progress annually to the Board of Supervisors in conjunction with, the General Plan Annual Report process, initiate and lead tasks assigned to the department, and support implementation efforts of other County agencies, The CAP identifies ambitious and collaborative tasks requiring support of numerous departments, regional agencies, and private -sector partners, DDS will lead coordination between these agencies on an ongoing and regular basis. The CAP represents a near-term strategy to implement the General Plan. To continue serving as a meaningful tooll, standard practice recommends revisiting and updating a CAP, including the GHG emissions inventory, every five years. DDS will coordinate these updates, based on evolving state guidance, staff resources, and progress. To demonstrate progress toward plan goals, the County will use a monitoring and reporting tool. Using the same technical data that informed development of the CAP, the tool will allow County staff to evaluate CAP progress using quantitative data and qualitative progress information. The monitoring and reporting tool estimates emissions changes in the unincorporated county year -by -year using publicly available activity data and tracks progress for each measure, including initiation dates, and key metrics. Certain measures may exceed expectations and provide more cost-effective options to reduce emissions. Other measures may not meet anticipated reductions. DDS will use the monitoring and reporting tool to provide updates to decision -makers in order to reassess funding decisions and allocation of staff time. Annual updates Using the monitoring and reporting tool also allow the County to reduce the need for a full re - inventory of GHG emissions to evaluate progress, Attaining CAP reduction goals will require County leadership to execute measures and report progress. Recognizing the numerous entities, involved in CAP implementation and diversity of work priorities, the County has prepared a work plan identifying responsible departments and key implementation considerations for each CAP measure. The work plan will be established by separate resolution of the Board of Supervisors, and may be revised or updated independent of an amendment to the CAP. Each work plan consideration is described below. Time frame: The year by which a measure should be initiated to achieve targeted GHG emissions reductions in 2020, support adaptation to climate change effects, or achieve long-term resilience. Time frames are described as follows: Immediate (by 2014) Near -Term (by 2016) Mid -Term (by 2018) Long -Term (by 2020) = Butte County Climate Action Plan Additional agencies: Other supportive agencies or partners that play a role in implementing the, measure, Staff time: An estimate of the likely expense and staff time required to implement the measure. The County can use this information to help determine if a measure is the best use of County resources. Three cost ranges have been identified, as described below. I Minimal staff effort and no consultant assistance would be needed to $ complete analytical work, coordinate stakeholder/public outreach, or Low implement the program. Significant staff effort, some consultant assistance, or supplemental funding for operations or capital projects would be needed to complete analytical Medium work, coordinate stakeholder/public outreach, or implement the program. Major staff effort, consultant assistance, or supplemental funding for operations or capital projects would be needed to complete analytical work High coordinate stakeholder/public outreach, or implement the program. Butte County Climate Action: Plan 1 This page intentionally left blank. IIIIIIN Butte County Climate Action Plan 1111H III Adaptive Capaicity - The ability of a population to prepare for or react to the long-term impacts of climate change, including increased frequency and severity of disasters, Lower-income and institutionalized populations may have limited adaptive capacity due to lower access to necessary resources. Also see "Resiliencoll" which rx, I . "Adaptive Capacity" refers to a system's more general ability to adapt to climate change impacts. 2.144�21 activities with consideration for environmental protection, If a proposed activity has the potential for a s i ificant adverse environmental impact, an environmental impact report (EIR) must be prepared and Igni 1 certified as to its adequacy, before action! can be t preparation of a program EIR. A developed and adopted by the California Buildings Standards Commission and the Department of Housinv_. and Community, Devel ;A1 to install soilar technollogy on existing residential, commercial, nonprofit, and governmental buildings if they are customers of the state's investor-owned utilities. Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO,e) - A metric measure used to compare the emissions from various greenhou5e gases based on their, lobal warmin ' )otential fGWPb The carbon dioxide exuivAent for a 4w deed basi is rivy mulltiplying the tons of the gas by the associated GWP. Clean Car Fuel Standards (AB 1493, Pavley) - Signed into law in 2002 and commonly referred to as Pavley standards. Requires carmakers to reduce GHG emissions from new passenger cars and light trucks beginning in 2011 . The California Air Resources Board anticipates that the Pavley standards will reduce emissions from new California passenger vehicles by about 22% in 2012 and about 30% in 2016, all while improving fuel efficiency and reducing motorists' costs, Community Benefits - An additional benefit occurring from the implementation of an, emissions reduction measure that is not directl1y related to reducing GHG emissions. Complete Streets - Complete Streets pollicies ensure that transportation planners and engineers consistently design and' operate the entire roadway with, aIll potential users in mind. This includes bicychsts, public transportation vehicles and riders, and pedestrians of all: ages and abilities, In 2007, the Butte County Climate Action Plan State of California adopted Assembly Bill 1358, which directs the legislative body of a city or county, upon revision of the circulation element of its general plan, to identify how the jurisdiction will provide for the routine accommodation of all users. Construction and Demolition Waste (C&D) - CBD materials consist of the waste generated during the construction, demolition, or renovation of buildings, roads, and other construction, projects. C&D materials may include heavy, bulky material's such as concrete, glass, wood, and metal, among other materials. Cool Roof'- A roof with high, solar reflectivity is considered a cool roof. Cool roofs reduce heat transfer into the indoors and can reduce indoor energy demand, Energy Conservation - Reducing energy, by turning off lights and heating when not in use. Energy Efficiency - Doing the same or more work with less energy, such as replacing; incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs or buying an ENERGY STAR appliance to use less energy for the same or greater output. ENERGY STAR ® A program to provide consumers with information and incentives to purchase energy- efficient products and develop energy-efficient buildings, jointly managed by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy. Global Warming Potential (GWP) - An index used to translate the level of emissions of various gases into a common measure in order to compare the, relative potency of different gases without directly calculating the changes in atmospheric concentrations. GHGs are expressed in terms of carbon dioxide equivalent. GIWPs are expressed in terms relative to carbon dioxide, which has a global warming potential of one,. Greenhouse Gas(es) (GHG) - Gases which cause heat to be trapped in the, atmosphere, warming the earth. GHGs are necessary to keep the earth warm, but increasing concentrations of these gases are implicated in global climate change. GHGs include all of the following gases: carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride,. The majority of GHGs come from natural sources, although human activity is also a major contributor. Green Waste - Refers to lawn, garden, or park plant trimmings and materials and can be used in home - composts or picked up, curbside by municipal waste haulers. Grey Water - See Recycled Water, LEE D - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, a standard established by the US Green Building Council. Mixed Use - Properties on which various uses such as office, commercial, institutional, and residential are combined in a single building or on a single site in an integrated development project with significant functional interrelationships and a coherent physical design. A single site may include contiguous properties. Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) - Small, street -legal electric vehicles with a limited top speed, suitable for traveling short distances. Ordinance - A law or regulation set forth and adopted by a governmental authority, usually a city or county. = Butte • Climate Action Plar Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program - A voluntary program allowing on-site renewable energy generation and energy efficiency improvements to be financed through property taxes. Recycled Water - Treatment of wastewater to a quality suitable for non -potable uses such as landscape irrigation; not intended for human consumption:. Reduction Measure - A goall, strategy, program, or set of actions that target and reduce a specific source of GMC emissions. Renewable Energy - Energy from sources that regenerate and are less damaging to the environment, such as solar, wind, biomass, and small-scale hydroelectric power. Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) - A regulation requiring utility companies in California to increase the production of renewable energy from solar, wind, or biomass, or from geothermal sources. Resiliency - The ability of a community, natural resource, or system to anticipate, absorb, accommodate, or recover from the effects of a potentially hazardous event in a timely and efficient manner, including through ensuring the preservation, restoration, or improvement of its essential basic structures and functions.' Sustainability - Community use of natural resources in a way that does not jeopardize, the ability of future generations to live and prosper. Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan - A program developed, by local agencies, large employees, or high traffic commercial services to reduce the amount of congestion and pollution related to transportation demand. TDM plans may be voluntary or mandatory, and may include incentives, regulations, and education about transportation alternatives, Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) - A key measure of overall street and highway use. Reducing VMT is often a major objective in efforts to reduce vehicular congestion and achieve regional air quality goals. Water Conservation - Reducing water use, such as turning off taps, shortening shower times, and cutting back on outdoor irrigation. Water Efficiency - Replacing older technologies and practices in order to accomplish the same results with less water; for example, by replacing toilets with new low -water -using models and by installing ,smart controllers" in irrigated areas. I intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. 2012. Climate Change: New Dimensions in Disaster Risk, Exposure, Vulnerability, and Resilience. Retrieved September 30, 2013. hrw-L I!-m-vLv9_2_-g2v_/sRExAnn Butte County Climate Action Plan111�' 0 This page intentionally left blank. Table -1 presents primary General Plan goals, policies, and actions that support or are directly implemented by the Climate Action Plan (CAP) measures. This table demonstrates the close relationship of the CAP to the General Plan, The CAP serves as an implementation tool of the numerous actions vetted and adopted through the General Plan process. Fable -1: CAP Measures and Related General Plan Policies and Actions Measure en ral Plan Policy or Action ENI Connect homeowners to financing and resources for ....... _-_.__- �. H -A6.1, H -A6.2, H -A6.3, CJS A1.3 retrofits. Ehl2 Promote residential appliance upgrades. _._....._..... ....... H -A6.2, H-06.1 EN3 Connect low-income homeowners to financing and CJS -A13, H P6.2, H, A6.2, H 06.1 resources for retrofits. EN4 Support retrofits in existing, nonresidential uses with an - �. ........ COS -A1.3, H A6.1, H AS.3, H A6.4, CJS -A1.3 emphasis on manufacturing facilities. .... _ _ ............. ---...__ ... -.... _ w........... _..___._.__. ENS 'Work with utility providers to encourage nonresidential ..._.. CJS P4.1 appliance upgrades. EN6 Promote energy -efficiency programs and streamline on- CJS A2.2, CJS -P4.1 site solar PV installations for agricultural and food processing facilities to improve operations and profitability. EN7 Encourage new nonresidential buildings to meet and CJS P2.1, CJS -P2.2, CJS -P2.4, COS -A2. 1, exceed CALJreen standards for energy efficiency, water CJSA2,2, CJS -A2.3, CJS -A2.4, CJS -A2.5 conservation, and passive design. ................ EN8 Expand distributed generation, renewable energy systems CJS P1.2, CJS -P2.4, CJS -P3.4, CJS -P3.5, for new residential development. __........ _____.___.-____._____ ._...._... ....._.. CJSP3.7, CJS -P4.3, CJS -A2..5 EN9 Support distributed generation in new nonresidential __.._.._...._ ._ _.... 1 CJS -P3.2, CJS -P3.4, CJS -P3.7, CJS -.A2.5 development to reduce on-site energy use. -._... Eh110 Encourage the voluntary installation of distributed CJS -P3.2, CJS -P3,4, CJS -P3.7 generation, renewable energy systems throughout the county. EN 1 1 Adopt a solar PV energy overlay zone. .............. CJS P3.2, CJS -P3.4, CJS -P3.7, CJS A3.1 F1 Expand the use of alternative and clean -fuel vehicles. -- _. COS -P1 .5, CJS -P1.7 Countytutte Action Plan = = Butte County Climate Action Plan . ........ . . . ........ Measure . .. . ...... . . . ....... -- . . ........... — ------- General Plan Policy or Action . . . ............ . . - - --------- F2 Coordinate with Butte County Air Quality Management ......... . . COS-A1.5 District to adopt construction mitigation requirements for alll construction projects. . . ...... ........ - F3 - - - - - - - ----- - - - - - Implement programs and update standards for new - - -- . ......... COS-PI.5,CJS -P'l.7 residential development to support fuel efficiency in . . autos and lawn and garden equipment, ..... ..... ------ -11, ............. - - --l-1-1-1--r-r- . .. ... T1 .... .. Create a transportation demand management program ................ . . . ............. . . CIR-132.1, CIR-P2.2, CIR-P2.4, CIR-P3.1, CIR-P3.3, for businesses throughout Butte County composed of CIR-P3.4, CIR-P3,5, CIR-P3.8, CM-A3.1, CIR-P4.1, requirements for employers with more than 50 employees CIR-P4.2,CIR-P4.3,CIR-P4.3,CIR-P4.3,CIIR-A4.1 (large employers) and voluntary actions for smaller, employers. . . .......... . . AGI . . . ............. . . Implement best practices in rice farming, . . ......... . . ...... . ........... ........... AG2 Reduce the amount of burned agricultural residue, ................ . . ......... L ............ . . . . . .......... AG3 Optimize the efficiency of water irrigation practices AG:-P3.1, AG P6.2, W-P4.1, W-134.2, W-P4.3, W- through clean, alternative irrigation energy sources. '�m A4.2 AG 4 --- -------- 111111rr ... improve maintenance of agricultural vehicles to reduce --- .......... . ..... fuel use. u- .. . . ............ .. . Implement mplement best practices in fertilizer and pesticide use, . ............. . . . . ........- - ------- - AG P4.4, AG P3.2,W-P1,5 AG6 Develop a local carbon sequestration or offset program ED-P2.6, COS-P1,6 on agricultural and timber land. W1 Sustain a maximum practical methane capture rate at the .......... . . .... . .......... ------- CJS A1.7, PUB 719.2 Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility.. W2 . . . . ...... Adopt a, countywide diversion rate target of 75%, . . ......... . . . COS -Pl.6,PUB-PII,2,PUB-Pll.I,PUB -P9,,l, ....................- consistent with state policy. PUB-P11.1-PUB-PI 1.5, PUB-A11.1 G01 Improve energy monitoring and tracking, - - ------- G02 improve operations with energy-efficient equipment, -- - ------- - --- ------- G03 Improve heating and cooling functions of County CJS A4.4 buildings. .... . .... - — - ----------- . . ........... ...... G04 . Implement fiscal and budgeting practices, that improve . ... .. ................ . . ........... energy efficiency. 1111111--"-""-rrrrrrrrrrrrrllrrrrr" G05 r — 11 ''Ill""I'll"--"---_"_,,,,,,_," ............. . implement habitability measures that cut costs. ... ........ ....... ................... . ...... ........ . . . COS-P23, COS-P3.6, COS-A4.4, PUB P1.2 G06 Reduce fuel use in the County fleet. CJS A1.2, CJS 131.7, COS-AIA G07 Reduce emissions from employee commutes by -- - ------ CIR-P2.2, CIR-P2.4, CIR-P4,1, CI:R-P4.2 encouraging alternative travel options and supporting the use, of clean, alternative fuels, G08 . . .... ... .. . Construct new buildings to CALGreen Tier 1 standards. . . ............. ... . ... .... . ........ . .. .... . . CJS 137.3 09 Reduce methane emissions from the Neal Road Recycling . . ........... CJS A1.7, PUB A9.7 and Waste Facility. .. . .......... = Butte County Climate Action Plan II! �! Butte County Climate Action Plan I as -- - ------- ............. . . ........ Measure - — - - - - - - -------- ------------------- - - --- General Plan Policy or Action GO I j Participate in a leadership or recognition program to - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - COS-P2.7 promote and support County sustainability initiatives. .... . . ............. . ..... Al Adapt to increasing wildfire frequency and severity. ............. ...... ... ........ . COS-Al 1. 1, HS-PI 1.2, HS-11.4, HS-12,2, HS-12.2, HS-Al2.1, HS-A 13.1 A2 .. . ....... .. . . . .... ........................................... Prepare for changing precipitation patterns and water -------- AG-P3.1,AG-P6.2,W-P2.1,W-P2.3,W-P3,1, supply. W-P3.2, W-P3.3, W-A3.1, W-A3.2, W-A3.4, .. . ....... . . ...... . . . . . . . - - - - - - W-P4.3, W-P4.4, COS-P8.2, HS-P10.2 - . . . . . . A3 Anticipate increases in flooding frequency and severity, . . . . .............. HS-P2.1, HS-P2.6, HS-A2.1, HS A2.2, HS-P4.3 . . ........... ... . . . . . . . . . ........ _...m... _. . ............. A4 Prepare and quickly respond to more frequent and . . . .... . . . .............. ...... intense of extreme heat events, RI ..... ... ........ . . . . . . . . - - - - --- Enhance the economic viaNity of local agriculture in a .... ...... ED-P2.1, EDP2.3, AG P2.6, AG-P3,1, W-P3.2 changing climate, . . ......... . ........ ......... - - - - - - - - - - R2 Support resilient ecosystems, . .... . . ........ ....... ..... .. . COS-PTI 0, COS-P7.2, COS-P7.4 R3 Sustain a thriving economy that capitalizes on changing ........... ED-P1.1, ED-P1.3, ED-P2.3, ED-P2.6, ED-A1,1, conditions, ED-AI.2, ED-AI.3 . ......... . ...... GRI Account for climate change effects in existing W-P3.1,W-P3.3,W-P4.7,COS -Al.1,COS-P2.3, government operations. . . .... .... . .. COS-A4.3, COS-P7.10, HS-A2.2, PUB-P1.2 ............ . . . . . GR2 Work with partners to prepare for climate change. W-A3.4, H-A6.2, AG-P3.1, AG P6.2, W-P4,2 . . . .................... . . . II! �! Butte County Climate Action Plan I as MButte County Climate Action Man Community Inventory Butte County Climate Action Plan M 11-r— Ir r . ............. . ..... Sector Activity Type 2006 Activity Unit of Measure Source . . ...... . . D� data . . ......... . ..... indirect Electricity 997,253flecLri . . . ........ Electricity Butte County, LGOP ------ Agriculture Residue Burning 183,357 Acres Burned Butte County I Livestock ....... .......... ... 29,906 -------- - -- Head of Livestock ------ 111-11-1-1-r-r—, -- -- I Butte Count _ Rice Cultivation105,673 .. . . . . .. .. .................... ..... .. Acres Butte County Farm Equipment - - r- � 20,719 I . .. . ..................... Gallons/Darr mm m Butte County Agricultural Irrigation 487 Number of Pumps Butte County u Pmps . .. . .......... . . . . . . . ............ ................. . .. . . . Pesticide Application 9,765 Pounds Butte County, California Department of Pesticide . .. . ...... ... . ............. ReguEation . ... ......... Fertilizer 29,091 Tons Butte County, California Department of Food and . . . . . . ... ........................... . . ... . .. ----------- ---- - ------- Agriculture Lime Application 6,380 Tons Butte County, California Department of Food and . ....... . .... . ________________. ... ....... Agriculture . . ... . ................. . . Urea Fertilization 4,877 Tons Butte County, California Department of Food and ...... .. . . .. ..... . ....... . ........ ....... .. . Agriculture Landfill' I Waste in Place 2,624,150 Tons of Waste in General Plan EIR, . . . .............. - . . . . ............. I-- . I— .... Place Appendix F, CalRecycle Table B-2 identifies the emissions factors used to translate activity data into GHG emissions for the community baseline inventory. When a specific emissions coefficient is not applicable, the total emissions reported are given for reference. Table B-2: Community Baseline Inventory Emissions Coefficients ---------- Activity Type . ............... 2006 Coefficient .......... . Sources Residential Electricity 0,000208 MTCO2e per kWh . .. ..... . . . ......... . ........ . PG&E, LGOP Residential Natural GasO.0053 . ........... . ........... . — — - -- - - - - MTCO 2e per therm - - - - ------------ -_ LGOP Residential Propane 0.0056 MTCO,e per .. . .. . . ....... .......... . . . ........... . . .. LGOP Commerciai/Inclustrial Electricity O,00021 .... . . ......... .... ... MTCQei per�kh� . ...... PG&E, LGOP Commercial/Industrial Natural Gas . . ... ............. . . ........... . ..... 0.0053 MTCO2e per therm LGOP . . . ........ . ........... . .. Direct Access --- 0.00041 ............. . .................. _... M_I�COe per kWh — - - - - - ____- - - - LGOP ........... . . On-Road Transportation000057 . . . ....... I—. . ..... . MTCO,e per VMT . . . . . ... . ............. . EMFAC 2011 . .. . .......... . Waste - Solid Waste 0.21 MTCO,e per ton of waste .. . ........ . J�ARB Landfill Tool . . . . . ........... �IM Butte County Climate Action Plan . . .. . ..... ......... Activity Type2006 . . . .... ......... Coefficient — - -------------- ------- Sources .... . . .. . .................... ........... . Off -Road - Lawn & Garden . .... . .......... ....... . ......... . . . ........... baseline inventory 1,890 MTCO,e - - - - ---------- �CARBOFFROAD Off -Road .- Construction - - - - ------------------------------- 15,470 MTCO,e CARE OFFRO D . ...... . ... . ........... . . . .... . ...... ........ - ----- - Indirect Water Emissions . ................ 0,46 MTCO LGOP - ------ Wastewater- Direct Emissions . . . ...... . ................. . . Data . . 7,760 MTCO,e per million gallons LGOP Wastewater - Indirect Electricity . .. . . . ........ ..... . .......... . 997,250 MTCO,e per eiectricity (kWh) i LGOP Agriculture -- Residue Burning Natural Gas ......... ... 183,360- .. . . . ...... . .............. . . .......... MTCO,e per acres burned . .............. . . .... ........... �CARB - - - - -- - - - -- - - -- - - ------ ---- - --- - --------------------------------- ---- - ---- ------------- ------ --�Asijcu!ture - Livestock29,910 . ........ . ..... . ............ ...... . .. ......... . . Fleet Gasoline MTCO,e per head of livestock CARR ---------------- ---- Agriculture -Rice Cultivation LGOP, County Records . . . . ........... 105,6801 MTCO 2e per acres CARR Agriculture Iture - Farm Equipment 20,720 MTCO2e per gallons/day CARR Agriculture - Agricultural MTCO2e 490 MTCO2e per number of CARB Irrigation Pumps -- . . . . . . . . . ..................... .... . .......... . . .................. 285,299 kWh pumps PG&E, County Records Agriculture - Pesticide Butte County 9,770 MTCO2eper pounds CARR Application— Streetlights ... . . ........ .. Agriculture - Fertilizer ------------ 29,090MTCO,,epertons ---------------- . . . ................................... . . ....... .............. . ......... ..... CARR Agriculture - Lime Application.......6,380 ------------ --- - ----- M e per tons GARB Agriculture - Urea Fertilization .. . ............ . .... .... .... kWh .............. . . ... 4,880 MTCO,e per tons CARE ................ . . ......... .. ............. Government Operations Inventory Baseline activity data used in the government operationis baseline inventory is provided in Table B-3. Table B-3: Government Operations Baseline Activity Data — — - - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - ------------------------------- Sector Subsector Activity Unit i Source Data . . . . .. . ................. . ........ ....... .. .... ......... . Buildings Electricity13,3,10,574 . .. . . . ........ ..... . .......... . kWh ........ PG&E, County Records --- - ----- - -- - -------------- -------- --------- - -- --------------- - --- - - - - ---- .. . ........ ........... ......... .. . .. . . Natural Gas ......... ... 577,562 - ---- ---- --- --- Therms PG&E, County Records, LGOP Fleet Gasoline 276,340 Gallons LGOP, County Records . . . . ........... . - ----- . . . ... . . . .. . .. ................ .... ......... .. ..................... Diesel 195,390 Gallons LGOP,_County Records Landfill . . . ........... . ....... . .. ...... .... . . ..... .............. . Direct Emissions 13,700 MTCO2e CalRecycle, County Records Lighting PG&E Streetlights 285,299 kWh PG&E, County Records Butte County 12,240 kWh PG&E, County Records Streetlights ------------ . . . . . . . .... . ...... . . ............ ............... . ....... . .......... . ..... . .. . .. . .. . . . . .. .. "[- Traffic Lights r"r rr" " -rrrrrrr 31,987 Ir - ""rrrrrrrrr-""r r—r-1--- h kW, I - -- - - ------- --- P County Records PG&E Co Water Water Electricity 21,443 kWh .............. . . ... B ou t County Su Butte Cnstainaibility - - - -- - - - ------ - - - ----- -"-- I lutte County Climate Action Plan N� . . . . . .. ............ . .. . Sector Subsector Activity ------ 1-1-11,_- Unit . .. .. .......... . .... ..... . ..... . ......... ___ . .... . ........ . ...... Source . . .. . ..... . ...... . Data . . .. .. ............. . ..... Repo rt Employee Commute &Travel Employee Travel 15,150 Miles Travel Survey Traveled - - - - ----__- __ — ---------- ........... EaRl e Commute 1 5,0�82,1 90 VMT ----- Travel Survey Government --Generated Solid Tons Disposed 210 Tons Butte County Sustainability WasteReport . ..... ...... . . . . . ................ Table 8-4 identifies the emissions factors used to translate activity data into GHG emissions for the government operations baseline inventory. When: a specific emissions coefficient is not applicable, the total emissions reported are given for reference. Table B-4: Government Operations Baseline Inventory Emissions Coefficients . . . . .... ............ - --- ----- . . . . .. .... ... .. . ....... ...................... ...... - ----- ------- Activity Type .................... . ........ . . ............................ . .. __"' - ----- Applicable Indicator 2006 Coefficient . . . ............. . ........ . .......... Source BuHdinq.ElectrKityAkW`hr, .......... _ .......... ................ . ...... Building Area or Employment 0.00208 ..... . ..... . ....... COLe _MT _per kWh LGOP -- -------- Building Natural Gas (therms) Building Area or Employment 0.00532 MTCO,e per Therm . . . . . . ............... LGOP . ............ Gasoline City Employment 2,280 MTCO2e EMFAC . ......... . . .. . . . ................... . .............. - _- --- .... . ............ . 2011 . . . ............ . ....... . Diesel City Employment 2,060 MTCO,e EMFAC .. . . .. . ................. . . ............ .... . . .... ....... . . . ..... . .... 2011 Tons of Waste in Place Service Population 13,700 MTCO2e MTCO'e CARB Landfill . . . . .......... . ... Tool Streetlights* City Employment 0.00263 MTCO,e per kWh LGOP, ---------- ......... . ... . . . .. ........... . .......... . ... . . PG&E Traffic Lights* City Employment 0.00263 MTCO,e per kWh LGOP, .. .. ......... .. ........ . . . ............... .... . . ....... PG&E _ � . . ........... . PG&E -Owned Streetlights* City Employment 0.00263 MTCO2e per kWh LGOP, . ....... . .......... . ... .. . . . ...... PG&E - — - - - - __-- Water Electricity Service Population 0.00263 MTCO,e per kWh LGOP, PG&E Employee Commute and Travel City Employment 6,030 MTCO2e EMFAC 2011, . . . . . . ........... ....... - -------- LGOP Tons Disposed City Employment 13,700 I MTCO2e CARB Landfill Tool *Note that emissions coefficients vary for County electricity use because of multiple utility providers. County facilities are located within the incorporoted cities of Gridley and Biggs, resulting in accounts serviced by these municipal utilities. PG&E provides service to most of the County's accounts. 1= Butte County Climate Action Plan Forecast Indicators Emissions are forecast to 2020 and 2030 using indicators. For example, the projected increase in households, identified in the Butte County General Plan is used: to estimate residential energy and off road emissions for 2020 and 2030. Table B-5 identifies the various growth indicators used to forecast Butte County's community and government operations to 2020 and 2030. Table B-5: 2020 and 2030 Emissions Forecast Indicators Emissions Forecast Percent Indicator Source Sector 2006 2020 2030 Change, .... . .......................................... - — --------- ----------- 2006-2030 Households Butte County Residential Energy, 34,981 43,567 49�,700 +42% General Plan Off -Road (Lawn and i Garden and Construction Equipment) Population Butte County Used to calculate 89,406 104,161 1 114,700 +28% General Plan service population Jobs, BCAG Nonresidential 7,738 8,9561 9,827 -x+27% Transportation energy, used to Model calculate service population --- --- ------- --- -- Service Calcuiation Solid waste, water, 97,144 113,117 124,527 +28% Population (Population + wastewater, .......................... Jobs) .............. ----- VMT BCAG Transportation 464,302,660 567,121,185 677,283,969 +46% Trans porta tion Model . ..... . ....... . ... ... .. . ..... . . . . . ................. - .. . .. . . . ....... ... . ......... . . . . ....... ........ ... County Butte County Building energy 1,000,000 1,0,60,000 1,060,000 +6% Government Capital Building Improvements Area (sq ft) Budget, extrapolated to ------ . . . . .. . . . ....... .............. ................... 2020 and 2030 .......... ...... . . . .. ........ . . . .... . ..... . . . . ................. . ................. . . .... . .. . ............... ... .............. . ............................. . ...... ..... . . . .... ..... ........ .. .... .. . ................ . . .. . ........ . . .. .. ...................... . ......... . . County Butte County Fleet, Lighting, 2,270 2,460 2,600 1-15% Employees Budget Report, Employee Commute (FTE) extrapolated to and Travel, 2020 and 2030 Government - Generated Solid . .. . ...... ......... .................... .. - Waste ... ....... Butte County Climate Action Plan 1,1111, State Reduction Methods Summary 1493 (Pavle,y) abi,"W Low Co,,,irboln F,�,,Ael Starijdard (LA' `,S) GHG Quantification Assumptions: CARR anticipates that the Pavley standards and the LCFS will collectively reduce GHG emissions from new California passenger vehicles by about 22% in 2012 and about 30% in 2016, while improving fuel efficiency and reducing motorists' costs. The Pavley rules establish GHG emissions standards for two different groups of passenger vehicles: (1) passenger cars and light-duty trucks with test weights under 3,751 pounds loaded vehicle weight (LDT1); and (2) light-duty trucks with test weights between 3,751 pounds loaded vehic�le weight and 8,500 pounds vehicle ght are included with manufacturers' LDT2 vehicles when determining compliance with California's GFIG standards. For the purposes of this analysis, only vehicles up to 8,500 pounds were considered, since most LDT3 vehicles are commercial and therefore do not fall under the scope of the PAey rules, The LCFS calls for at lea: st a 10%i reduction in carbon intensity (the amount of carbon released during, production and use) within California's transportation fuels by 2020. This analysis assumes that carbon intensities, will be reduced by 10%. GHG reductions from the Pavley and LCFS, standards were calculated using EMFAC 2011 data for Butte County. EMFAC 2011 data includes the breakdown of vehicles by vehicle class and, emissions factors per mile for each vehicle cli,?,ss,. Emri�*ns n-_4Ycti#ms ittr m64.itl •c�lass art tht C*vimy's tr*,.ris,*#rtatj-tft emissions and would result in an 11 % decrease in transportation -related GHG emissions below baseline levels by 2020. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/ccms/ccms.htm. --. 2010. Pavley � and Low Carbon Fuel Standard Postprocessor Version hittp://www.arb,.ica.gov/cc�/sb375/tools/`postprocessor,htm, 2011. Emissions Factor 2011 Model Software, http://www.arb.ca.gov/msel/modeling.htm. low -III eliectri city came from qualified renewable sources in 2006. While PG&E has made significanit strides to reach the 33% goal by 2020, the California Public Utilities Commission, (CPUC) has indicated that energy providers INIMBEAMMUM4 MAL, AIR 7AW4 Nj 1011 a m I I wollm r4 my gsjr plan relies on a more realistic scenario modeled by the CPUC in its June 20109 RPS Implementation Analysis Report, stating that PG&E's renewable energy portfolio would reach 28% in 2020. This implementation analysis shows that by 2020, PG&E would be providing customers, in Butte County appro:ximately an additional 11.9% of their electricity from renewable sources compared to baseline 2006 conditions. Em�issions Reduced (MTCOe) GHG Quantification Sources: California Public Utilities Commission. 2009.33% Renewable Portfolios Standard Implementation Analysis Report. hittp://www.cpuc.ca,gov/NR``/rdonlyres/i865C207-FEB5-43CF-99EB-A212B78467F6/0"`/ 33 PercentRP'SIm plementationAnalysi sl nteri m Repo rt.pdf. 7t� business is built ini, California. It includes requirements for the structural, plumbing, electrical',, and mechanical systems of buildings, and for fire and life safety, energy conservation, green design, and accessibility in and around buildings. The 2010 triennial! edition of Title 24 applies to all occupancies that applied for a building Januany, 1 r 2011, and remains in effect until the effective date of the 2013 triennial edition. This CAP, focuses on two sections of Title 24: Part 6, the California Energy Code; and Part 11, the California Green Building Standards Code, or CALGIreen. These two sections require direct electricity, natural gas, and water savings for every new home or business built in California, Title 24 is a statewide standard appl�ied at the local level by local agencies through project review. The GHGi emissions forecast incorporates the net energy benefit of new Title 24 requirements that did not 24 to: its former version. The AB 32 Scopin!g Plan calls, for ongoing updates to Title 24 that will yield regular 1! increases, ini, the mandatory energy and water savings for new construction. As such, the GHG emissions 01 tnergy used from, new construction. The energy effects of 20,08 Title 24 Standards for nonresidential alterations are modeled. Future updates to Title 24 standards, for nonresidential alterations are not taken into consideration for lack of data and certainty. Total Measure GHG Reductions: 1 202,�i�� Emissions Reduced (MTCO2e) Butte County Climate Action Plan = GHG Quantification Sources: California Energy Commission. 2007. Impact Analysis: 2008 Update to the California Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings, 2010. 2009 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study. Sacramento. http://www.energy,ca.gov/201 0puIblications/CEC-200-2010-004/0EC-200-2010-004-ES.PD. Local Accomplishments Quantification: Sources and Assumptions U1111M r r a V] M-1 i 11 10, M F0141 to I ft -1 i N Ric 4 0 A M ff W1 0 xi M MUM I Mr 116MI , .11II I kill WII tI 15771 d(.CUffIPI1!)MIl Corit"M•e lii,-Ounilij: 5 CquilitNill. PIIJIW reduction goals. The sources and mee cited below, relying primarily on (1) the County's Gli emissions inventory and forecast, (2) public data, and (3) government agency reports Information on actual, or measured, 2012 data is highlighted below. This observed performance to date was used to determine estimates of new business -as -usual emissions forecasts, accounting for continued implementation. Credits for local accomplishments that have occurred after the baseline year of 2006 are credited relative to the County's, 2020 and 2030 emissions forecast. ki I. v e�li 4',;W "� W ITTTW� GHG Indicators and Assumptions: Average annual kWh savings GHG Reduction: Emissions reduction ed 2,361 1 2,361 1 2,361 4,570 4,570 4,5170 1,362 1.362 1,362 20122020 . ...... . . ....... . ..... Estimated Projected 1,860 1,730 M GHG Sources: Go Solar California, California Solar Initiative. 2013. Current CSI Working Dataset. http://www.californiasolarstatistics.ca.gov/current—data—files/. Meehan, Chris. July 5, 2011. Butte College generating more solar power than it uses. http://www.cl'eanenergyauthority.com/solar-energy-news/butte-college-spins-back-meter-with-solar- 070511/. PVWatts Calculator (Butte County Specific), 2013. http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/calculators/pvwatts/versionl/. E. Reductions in crop residue burnings GHG Indicators and Assumptions: Reducedagricultural residue burnt annual�ly (tons) . .. . ........ . . ........ . .......... . ......... . ............ . . .......... . ......... Number of walnut and almond acres participating in program Percent reduction in burnt residue .. ......... .. . . . .. ... . .................... . ..... GHG Reduction: 2012 2020 2030 Estimated Projected Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) 790 790, GHG Sources: Butte County. 2007. 2006 Butte County Agricultural Crop Report, California Air Resources Board., 2008 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory: Agriculture and Forestry: Ag Residue Burned. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/data/data,htm. E Reductions in fertilizer and pesticide use, and conversion to less GHG-intensive crops GHG Indicators and Assumptions: Butte County Climate Action Plan i MMO 2012 2020 2030 .. . . .. ............................... . . .... .... . . -.- ........... .............. . ... . . ... . ..... . .................. . . ................... ----------------------- ------ - - Estimated Projected . ... ........ Reduced agricultural lime usage (tons) 2,7002,700 .. . ............. 2,700 Reduced agricultural urea usage (tons) . ...... . ..... .. ..... .......... . .. . . . . . .. . . .. ...... ................... . . ... . . -- - ------------ 3,590 . . . ......... 3,590 . .... .. .. .. .......... . 3,590 Reduced agricultural nitrogen, usage (tons) . . . . . .. ... . . .. .. .. .... ............ . ...... . .. ........................ . .. . ...... . ....... . ...... . . .... . .... 130 130 130 Reduction in land used for rice cultivation (acres) 10,630 10,630 10,630 Butte County Climate Action Plan i MMO 2012 2020 2030 . . . . ........... . ........... ... . ....... . Esti td Projected Emissions Reduction (MTCO,e) 15,880 1518 15,880 . ... . ............. . .... . .... ... ..... . . ............. Ca FI Sources: Butte County, 2007. 2006 Butte County Agricultural Crop Report. California Air Resources Board. 2008 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory: Agriculture and Forestry: CH, from Harvested Rice Area, N,O from Nitrogen Applied in Fertilizer. http://www,arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/data/data.htm. California Department of Food and Agriculture. 2010. Fertilizer Materials Tonnage Report, http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/is/ffldrs/Fe,rtilizer—Tonniage.html. EA5. Increased solid, st diversion rate (2006-2012) GHG indicators and Assumptions: RUBUM . . . .. . ....... ..... . .... . . ......... ... . - Projected Emissions reduction (MTCO,e)1 1 1,02 ... . ................... ....... . ... ..... -------- - -- — ------ 0 GHG Sources: Personal communication with Bill Mannel: Waste Management Division Manager, Butte County Department of Public Works. May 16,2013. EA6. Landfill gas power plant GHG Indicators and Assumptions: �IM Butte County Climate Action Plan RUMMOT 2012 2020 2030 Estimated Projected ------------- Emissions reduction (MTCO,e)2,960 2,770 2,620 ----------- - ------- GHG Sources: Ameresco Butte County LLC and Butte County. October 26, 2010. Amendment #4 to Landfill Gas Purchase Agreement (Neal Road Recycling and Waste, Facility, Paradise, CA). EA7. Annexations of land with residential and nonresidential energy use into incorporated areas G,HG Indicators and Assumptions,. —2 0 ... ..... . ..... 21030 ---- -- ------- Estimated Projected N/A 3,338 3,442 N/A 77 85 N/A 58 67 N/A 36,459 36,459 N/A 911 911 N/A 0:.7 . .. . ..... . ............ . . .... 0:.7 . . . . ............. . .......... . ..... N/A 167 445, N/A 1948 --- - -------------- -- N/A 0 11 4,3,41 ted Emissions reduction (MTCO2e) 4 440 4,240 GHG Sources: County of Butte. 2010. Butte County General Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report. . 2012. Butte County General Plan 2030. 5utte County Climate Action Plan LIM GHG Indicators and Assumptions, Emissions Reduction (MTCO2e): 290. 1,320 GHG Sources: County of Butte. 2012. Butte County General Plan 2030. KEMA, Inc. 2010. 20091 California Residential! Appliance Saturation Study, Volume 2: Results. http://www,energy.ca.gov/appliances/rass/. EA9. Complete streets ordinance GHG Indicators and Assumptions: .......... I=, I Butte County Climate Action Plan 2012 Estimated N/A N/A N/A ERE am 5,655 156 7,936,007 218,985 911Ynt OM Iffix—Ef 25% 25% 40 40 .. ......... 14,745,420 17,609,210 n��omm�4, WT%STTMM CAPCOA. 2010. Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. httpg/wpi- content/uploads/20on-Repo4-Final.pdf. Fehr & Peers. June 14, 2013. Memorandum - Butte County Climate Action Plan: Transportation Measures VMT Reduction Estimates. GHG Reduction Measaire Quantification: Sources wind Assumptions Thi s section summarizes data sources, assumptions, and performance metrics used to calculate GHG emissions reductions for the Butte County CAP. The sources and metrics are organized by measure and rely on four primary types of data and research: (1) the County's GHG emissions inventory and forecast, (2) government agency tools and reports, (3) case studies in similar jurisdictions, and (4) scholarly research. The quantification approaches are consistent with guidance provided for development of a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy. The baseline GHG inventory and forecast serve as the foundation for the quantification of the County's GHG reduction measures. Activity data from the inventory forms the basis of measure quantification, including VMT, kWh of electricity or therms of natural gas consumed, and tons of waste disposed, Activity data was combined with the performance targets and indicators identified by the County. The activity data and performance targets and indicators were used throughout the quantification process to calculate the emissions reduction benefit of each measure. This approach ensures that Butte County's GHG reductions are tied to the baseline and to future activities occurring within the county., Butte County Climate Action Plan LIM ENI. Connect homeowners to financing and resources for retrofits. Actions: - Participate in a program to provide additional low-cost financing for energy retrofits in Butte County to supplement available rebates from programs such as Energy Upgrade California and the California Home Energy Retrofit Opportunity (HERO) program administered by the Western Riverside Council of Governments. - Host booths at home fairs. - Encourage home remodels or additions to achieve California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) compliance by promoting available financing programs such as Energy Upgrade California or other Ilocall rebate programs, - Provide pamphlets on financing programs with permits. - Partner with local contractors to promote retrofits, in the low-income housing stock through weatherization programs GHG Assumptions: rticioation rate 2030 30% 12% 30% 12% ME 2020 2030 Participating households 4,920 10,340 . . . . . .. . .......... Electricity reduction per participant (kWh) -2,150-2,060 -------- . . ............. .. . . .......... Natural gas reduction per participant (Therm) -50 -50 GHG Sources: California Public Utilities Commission. Energy Upgrade California: Butte County. https://energyupgradeca.org/county/butte/about-overview. US Census Bureau. 2010. American Community Survey 2006-2010, Data Table DP04: Selected Housing Characteristics. Butte County Climate Action Plan 2. Promote residential appliance upgrades. Actions: - Trach the number of energy-efficient or smart -grid -integrated appliances installed in new development and major remodels through the County's permit tracking system. - Promote ENERGY STAR or energy-efficient appliances with County outreach material's including existing home improvement programs, rebate programs, and program monitoring. GHG Assumptions: 2020 2030 Participating households3,940 6,9010 _..._..._ �._....._...�._......._ w.w... w.._......_....w............_._._.......... __.__.._ .._. Electricity reduction per participant (kWh) -590 ' -760 _.. .._.._ ....._._............._..._......._.......... _ — --- Natural gas reduction per Jparticipant (therms) 50 -70 GHG Sources: Brown, Rich, Sam Borgeson, Jon Koomey, and Peter Biermayer, 2008, U5. Building -Sector Energy Efficiency Potential. KEMA, Inc. 2€110.2009 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study, "volume 2, Results. http://www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/rass/ 3m Connect low-income homeowners wners t financing and resources for retrofits. Actions: - Work with nonprofits to identify highest opportunities for a successful low-income program. - Encourage workforce training programs to provide free weatherization services to qualified households. - Partner with workforce training programs such as Living Elements and Valley Contractors Exchange. - Leverage federal funding for home improvements, such as Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), to improve the energy efficiency and livability of Butte County's lowest -income households. Butte, County Climate Action Plan 202020303 Appliance upgrade participation rate20% 35% Appliance implementation rate 50% 5% Appliance upgrade participation rate 20% 35% Appliance implementation rate501% 65% GHG Reduction: 2 230 Emissions reduction (MTCO2e) -1,560 -3,498 2020 2030 Participating households3,940 6,9010 _..._..._ �._....._...�._......._ w.w... w.._......_....w............_._._.......... __.__.._ .._. Electricity reduction per participant (kWh) -590 ' -760 _.. .._.._ ....._._............._..._......._.......... _ — --- Natural gas reduction per Jparticipant (therms) 50 -70 GHG Sources: Brown, Rich, Sam Borgeson, Jon Koomey, and Peter Biermayer, 2008, U5. Building -Sector Energy Efficiency Potential. KEMA, Inc. 2€110.2009 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study, "volume 2, Results. http://www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/rass/ 3m Connect low-income homeowners wners t financing and resources for retrofits. Actions: - Work with nonprofits to identify highest opportunities for a successful low-income program. - Encourage workforce training programs to provide free weatherization services to qualified households. - Partner with workforce training programs such as Living Elements and Valley Contractors Exchange. - Leverage federal funding for home improvements, such as Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), to improve the energy efficiency and livability of Butte County's lowest -income households. Butte, County Climate Action Plan 2020 . . . . . . ..................................... . .... .... . Number of participants1,310 5,23-01111-1-1111-11- . ....... . ...... .... . .. ........ . . ..... . . Electricity reduction (kWh, averaged across all homes) -120 -120 . - - - - -1 1 ....... . .... . .. Natural gas reduction (therms, averaged across all homes) -30 -30 . . .... ....................... . . . .......... ------ ... . .... . ... .. .. Propane reduction (gallons, averaged across all homes) -100 -100 GHG Sources: Bay Area Economics. 2009. County of Butte Housing Element Update, Housing Needs Assessment: Public Review Draft. http-//www.buttegeneraIpIan.net/ebinder/20091/2009-03-26/ButteCo--HsgNeedsAssmt-3- 18-Mpdf, KEMA, Inc. 20,10. 2009 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study, Volume 2: Results. http://www,energy.c�a.gov/appliances/rass/. US Census Bureau. 2010.2006-2010 American Community Survey, Data Table B25040: House Heating Fuel. EII Support retrofits in existing nonresidential uses with an emphasis on manufacturing facilities. Actions: - Develop a voluntary educational program and business inventory to identify energy- and cost-saving opportunities. - Promote Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing in partnership with the local chambers of commerce, utilities, and local businesses. - Partner with utilities and local business leaders to connect local businesses with advanced rebates and assistance, for energy retrofits. For example, the County may collaborate with PG&E to map local high energy users and guide County outreach in collaboration with PG&E. - Conduct an annual awards event to highlight local businesses completing retrofits and saving energy, GHG Assumptions: . ......... ... . ..... 2020 2030 . . ........... ........ .. . Participation rate for retrocomissioning 25% 55% Participation rate for retrofits 15% 25% MMUTIMM M Average natural gas reduction (therms) -1,220 -1,100 GING Sources: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 2011. Advanced Energy Retrofit Guide: Office Buildings. US Census Bureau. 2007. 2007 Economic Census, Data Table EC070OAl: Alll Sectors: Geographic Area Series: Economy -Wide Key Statistics. 5® Work with utility providers to encourage nonresidential appliance upgrades. Actions: - Track the number of energy-efficient or smart -grid -integrated appliances installed in new development and major nonresidential remodels through the County's permit tracking system. - Work with third -party providers and utility companies to provide low- to no -cost rebates and incentives for nonresidential appliances and equipment. GHG Assumptions: . . . . . . ...... . . . ............ . . ... . .. . . ................. ........ . .. . . . .. . ... ................................ . . .... - - - - _- _- - ----__- -- - -_- - ___ - -- - - . ........... . 2020 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO,e)-2,130 ........ .. . . ........... . . . . . . .. ................ .. ..... . ...... ..... ............. . .. ...... . ........... . ........... -4,130 . . . ....... ........ . ........................... . Performance Indicators: . .... ...... ...... ....................................... . ........ . ................ . ...... ........ . . ... ............ -111-111 - ------------- 2020 2030 Number of retrocomissioni and/or retrofit participants 80 170 Average electricity reduction (kWh) ............... -117,460 10 7,85 0 Average natural gas reduction (therms) -1,220 -1,100 GING Sources: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 2011. Advanced Energy Retrofit Guide: Office Buildings. US Census Bureau. 2007. 2007 Economic Census, Data Table EC070OAl: Alll Sectors: Geographic Area Series: Economy -Wide Key Statistics. 5® Work with utility providers to encourage nonresidential appliance upgrades. Actions: - Track the number of energy-efficient or smart -grid -integrated appliances installed in new development and major nonresidential remodels through the County's permit tracking system. - Work with third -party providers and utility companies to provide low- to no -cost rebates and incentives for nonresidential appliances and equipment. GHG Assumptions: . . . . . . ...... . . . ............ . . ... . .. . . ................. ........ . .. . . . .. . ... ................................ . . .... - - - - _- _- - ----__- -- - -_- - ___ - -- - - . ........... . 2020 2030 Participation rate ... . ................... ... . . . 20% 35% Utilization rate40% ------- - - - - - ------- - - . . ... . ........ . ................................ . ............ .. ...... . ... ........... ............................. . .... ...... ...... ....................................... . ........ . ................ . ...... 60% ................. .. ......... .. .. ............ .. .. .. . .... GING Reduction: . . . . ........ . __ ........ . .... ...... . ..... . . ......... ... - -------- ------ 2020 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO2e)-620 . .. ..... .. ............... . ................ -1,570. Performance Indicators: . . . .. . ............... ...... .. ... - 2020 2030 Participating businesses . . . .... . . .......... 3060 Average electricity reduction per business (kWh) -81,120 -121,690 Average natural gas reduction Der business (therms) -750 -1,120 Butte CountyClimate Action Plan M GHG Sources: Brown, Rich, Sam Borgeson, Jon Koomey, and Peter Biermayer. 2008. U.S. Building -Sector Energy Efficiency Potential. County of Butte. 2010. Butte County General Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report. Itron, Inc. 2007. California Commercial End-use Survey - Results Page. http://capabilities.itron.com/CeusWeb/Chart.aspx. EN6. Promote energy -efficiency programs and streamline on-site, solar PV installations for agricultural and food processing facilities to improve operations and profitability. Actions: - Partner with PG&E to develop a localized, energy -efficiency outreach effort for agricultural processing industries reflecting characteristics of local operations, and available financing. - Provide resources on rebates and financing for appliances and equipment upgrades through stakeholder outreach, including collaboration with utility companies such as PG&E. - Connect third -party energy -efficiency providers to provide free to low-cost equipment to eligible businesses and large energy users, - Adopt a solar energy overlay zone to simplify the installation of solar PV in non -prime farmland that would serve on-site agricultural and manufacturing uses. The overlay will expedite the development of solar PV in high: opportunity areas while protecting prime farmland and other environmental resources. Solar PV would be limited to 5 acres or less per parcel, consistent with the Butte County Zoning Code. GH G Assumptions: Butte County Climate Action, P122 2020 2030 Percent of food processors participating in demand response30% . ............. . .... 50% Percent of food processors participating in steam system efficiencies 65,% 80% Percent of food processors participating in electricity efficiency 75% 90% Glib Reduction: 2020 2036 Emissions, reduction (MTCO,e) -70,770, . .... . . ..... -100,740 Performance Indicators: 2020 2030 Number of food processors participating in: an: efficiency program .. . ...... ..... ..... . 3.4 .. . .............................. . . ....... . ..... ........... -53--.. Average electricity reduction per efficiency participant (kWh) . ... . -35,210 . . ..... . .................... ... . ..... -47,060 ..................................... . . .. .. ... . . . ...... ... Average natural gas reduction per efficiency participant (therms) -5120, -4290 kW notential of solar panels on aqricultural land 277,280 � 415,2910 Butte County Climate Action, P122 Glen Lewis Group, Environmental Energy Technologies Division and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, University of California, 2007, Strategies to Increase Cafifornia Food Processing Industry Demand Responist Participation: A Scoiping Study. Kazama, Donald, Joseph Wang, and Tony Wong. 2004. Energy Efficiency Opportunities in California Food Processing Facilities, http://repository.t,amu,edu/bitstream/handle/I 969.1 /87972/ESL-IE-08-05- 04.pdf?sequence=l. Pacific Gas and Electric Company. 2012. Unincorporated Butte County Non -Residential Energy Overview. Renewable Resource Data Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory. 2013. PVWatts Grid Data Calculator Version 2. http://www.nrel.gov/rredc/pvwatts/girid.html. EN7. Encourage new nonresidential buildings to meet and exceed CALGreen standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, andl passive design® Actions: Update development checklists and provide guidelines to support optimal energy efficiency. Educate builders through working group meetings and CALGreen workshops. Partner with local building supply stores to promote cost-effective materials, that would help achieve CALGreen Tier 1. Seek grants or external funding to reduce building permit costs for buildings that meet CALGreen, Tier 1. Identify CALGreen Tier I or 2 standards as preferred mitigations for the environmental impacts of new nonresidential projects. Maintain voluntary CALGreen Tier I standards as an option for new buildings. GH G Assumptions: -20 1 -70 Butte County Climate Action Plan reductions per squarefoot (kWh) -0.04 , - --- - - ------- -------- — — - - Electricity reductio ------- Natural gas reductions per square foot (Therms) -0.0022 -0.00�25 . . . . ......... . .. . ....................... . ... ------ - --- - - - - - - - - ___-- - - - __-- - - _- GHG Sources: California Air Pollution Control Officers, Association. 2010. Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. EN8. Expand distributed generation, renewable energy systems for new residential development. Actions: - Encourage all new discretionary development projects consisting of more than 500 residential units to achieve zero net energy using solar PV and high -efficiency construction.. - Offer expedited processing for developers providing on-site solar, such as participants in the state's Homebuyer Solar Program. - Encourage alll new discretionary multi -family developments to offer solar options or provide off-site power purchase agreements, following the Homebuyer Solar Program. - Encourage all new discretionary projects to iinclude solar prewiring for PV. GHG Assumptions: ,GHG Reduction: 2020 2030 - ----- -------- --------- Number of new households in participating areas 900 2,950 . . . . . . . . . . ...................... ... . ......... ............... Percent of all new households13% 23% . . . . .... . . ... ..................... . ..... - - -_- GHG Sources: N/A E 9 Support distributed generation in new nonresidential development to reduce on-site energy use. Actions: - Adopt incentives to encourage distributed generation systems, targeting large projects most likely to benefit from on-site energy, including large nonresidential development greater than 10,000 square feet. 1=U 6 Butte County Climate Action Plan 2020 2030 zero net energy house 5,618 3,979 ]h zero net energy house 149 -- - — ----- ---- ---- - ------------------- -- . . . .......................... ........ . .... 149 . . . ........ ........... 2020 2030 ....... . . .. I -4,38C 2020 2030 - ----- -------- --------- Number of new households in participating areas 900 2,950 . . . . . . . . . . ...................... ... . ......... ............... Percent of all new households13% 23% . . . . .... . . ... ..................... . ..... - - -_- GHG Sources: N/A E 9 Support distributed generation in new nonresidential development to reduce on-site energy use. Actions: - Adopt incentives to encourage distributed generation systems, targeting large projects most likely to benefit from on-site energy, including large nonresidential development greater than 10,000 square feet. 1=U 6 Butte County Climate Action Plan - Streamline administrative review process to determine exemptions, - Offer expedited processing for developers providing on-site solar. Encourage new nonresidential development, subject to discretionary review, to prewire for solar PV systems and to maximize roof space to accommodate future rooftop solair installations. GHG Assumptions: . . . . . ......... ... - . . . .. . . ................. . ............. - ----- . 20�20 .......... .. . . .. ....... - - � r rr, r 2030 Percent of new nonresidential developments, with on-site renewables . . . . ............. ... 5% 10% Average amount of demand to be met by on site renewables . . .. .. ............... ..... .. . 80% 10060 GHG Reduction: __--- 20 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) 110 -530 �=Il= 2020 2030, Installed kW for new nonresidential development 4402,250 . . .. . . ............ Number of participating businesses 10 20 . ................ . ..... ......... — ------- - — - - __ _ . ......................... GHG Sources: N/A EN10. Encourage the voluntary installation of distributed generation, renewable energy systems throughout the county. Actions: Revise the permit fee to reflect size of PV installation, Streamline the review and approval of solar PV panels through online permitting and easily accessible educational materials. GHG Assumptions: ... . ............. . . . .............. . . 2020 2030 Percent of existing (pre -2006) homes with solar panels installed 4% 141x/'® after 2012 kW potential of PV systems at existing (pre -2006) nonresidential 27,000 42,000 development .. . .... .. .. .......... ..... .......... GHG Reduction: 2020 . ......... . .. 2030 . . ....... Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) -9,070 -15,430 Butte County Climate Action Plan MM 2020 2030 . . . . ............. ___ . ....... -_-_--_------ -------- Number of pre -2006 homes with solar panels 1,40O 3,500 ...... ... ... .................... . .............. Size of average residential PV array (kW) 7 7 Total size of PV arrays installed on pre -2006 nonresidential .buildings (kW) . ...... ....... . ..... . .......... ------ 27,000 42!900 GHG Sources., Go Solar California, California Solar initiative. May 21, 2013, Current CSI Working Dataset, http://www.californiasolarstatistics.ca.gov/current.-data..-files/. Renewable Resource Data Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory. 2013. PVWatts Grid Data Calculator Version 2. http://www.nrd.goWrredc/pvwatts/grid.html. Fl. Expand the use of alternative and' clean -fuel vehicles. Actions: Support use of neighborhood electric vehicles, such as low -speed golf courts or other personal neighborhood electrical vehicles. Encourage new nonresidential buildings, subject to discretionary review, to provide electric vehicle prewiringi or conduit. Update zoning provisions to encourage alternative fuel stations. GHG Assumptions: . ...... ...... 2020 2030 Number of public EV charging stations 15 40, Percent of households with NEVs2% . . . .................... ..... 5% GFS G Reduction: 22d 2030., Emissions Reduction (MTCO2e) -570 -1,540 MW Butte County ClImate Action Plar California Energy Commission, 2002. Demonstration of Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs). http://www,energy.ca.gov/reports/2002-08-28-600-02-020�F.PDF. ICLEI USA. 2010. Climate and Air Pollution Planning Assistant (CAPPA) 1 ,5. US Department of Energy, Vehicle Technologies Office, Comparing Energy Costs, per Mile for, Electric and Gasoline Vehicles. https://wwwl.eere.energy.gov/vehiclesandfueis/avta/light—duty/fsev/fsev—gas—elec2.html. F2. Coordinate with Butte County it Quality Management District to adopt construction mitigation requirements for al I construction projects. Actions: - Applicants for projects subject to discretionary review shall be encouraged to choose one of the, following:: - Reduce construction equipment idling to 3 minutes. - As practical, use clean or alternative fuel equipment. EMMUZZE1=1 GHG Sources: California Air Resources Board. 2013. Heavy -Duty Vehicle Idling Emission Reduction Program., http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/truck-idling/truck-Idling.htm. US Environmental Protection Agency and North Central Texas Council of Governments. Idle Reduction. http://www.nctcog.org!/trans/air/vehicies/tech/idle/. F3. Implement programs and update standards for new residential development to support fuel eff [ciency in autos and lawn and garden equipment. Actions: Encourage electric vehicle outlets on external walls or in garages in all new residential, development, subject to discretionary review. Simplify electrical permitting processes for electric vehicle charging. Butte County Chmate Action K 01i Work Butte CountyAir Quality Managementprovide an appliancetrade-in program residential ! garden equipment. GHG Assumptions: GHG Sources: California Air Resources Board. OFFROAD 2007. http //wwvw.arb.ca.gov/msei/categories.htm#offroad_motor_vehicles. U5 Department of Energy, Vehicle Technologies Office. Comparing Energy Costs per Mile for Electric and Gasoline Vehicles. https://wvwwwvl.eere.energy.gov/vehicIesandfuells/avta/light.-,duty/fsev/fsev.m gas eIec2.htm T1 Create a transportation demand m, n gernent program fuer businesses throughout Butte County composed of requirements for employers with more than 50 employees, (Marge employers) and voluntary actions for smaller employers. Actions: - Work in collaboration with BCAG and local chambers of commerce to promote TDM strategies. - Develop guidelines for Butte County that recommend appropriate TDM strategies for local businesses. - Develop an informational brochure highlighting employer -based TDM strategies with available programs and provide as outreach to local businesses.. - Encourage existing employers and small employers to participate in TDM. CountyI= Butte Action 2020 2030 Percent of lawn mowers traded in _... _ _ ...,._ ....__ ._. ..................... _..._..-.. 20% .m__... 40:% ._. Percent of leaf blowers traded in 20'% 40,% Percent of new homes that will install and use electric 2% 5%vehicle charging stations G Reduction: 2020 I 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO2e)-6611L____-2,800 Perfor rice Indicators: 2020 2030 Average reduction in fuel use per traded in piece of equipment (galions)8 Number of lawn mowers or leaf blowers traded in 4,210 9,590 Number of homes with an electric vehicle 140650 Reduction in gasoiine-powered car miles per house (VMT) -1 „177 -13,040 GHG Sources: California Air Resources Board. OFFROAD 2007. http //wwvw.arb.ca.gov/msei/categories.htm#offroad_motor_vehicles. U5 Department of Energy, Vehicle Technologies Office. Comparing Energy Costs per Mile for Electric and Gasoline Vehicles. https://wvwwwvl.eere.energy.gov/vehicIesandfuells/avta/light.-,duty/fsev/fsev.m gas eIec2.htm T1 Create a transportation demand m, n gernent program fuer businesses throughout Butte County composed of requirements for employers with more than 50 employees, (Marge employers) and voluntary actions for smaller employers. Actions: - Work in collaboration with BCAG and local chambers of commerce to promote TDM strategies. - Develop guidelines for Butte County that recommend appropriate TDM strategies for local businesses. - Develop an informational brochure highlighting employer -based TDM strategies with available programs and provide as outreach to local businesses.. - Encourage existing employers and small employers to participate in TDM. CountyI= Butte Action Create an annual survey to track employee commute trends for all participating businesses. Connect employers with regional transit resources and partners, working with partners such as Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG) and Butte Regional Transit. Provide facilities for carpooling and park and ride programs and facilities such as the park and ride lot adjacent to the Oro,ville Veterans Memorial Hall. GH G Assumptions: 2020 2030 ---------- ------ ...... ............. . . . . - Average reduction in annual VMT per participant -13,350 -13,850 .... . .... . .... . .................... . . . ............ GHG Reduction: 2020 2030 .. .. ... ... . ... ......................... .. . . .. . ............... . Emissions reduction (MTCO,,e) . .... ........... ...... ... - I -- - -- ------ -- Performance Indicators: ... ..... . ... Number of employees participating in TDM 330 program 380 . .... . ................... ............ ..... . .................................... GHG Sources: Fehr & Peers. June 14, 2013. Memorandum - Butte County Climate Action, Plan: Transportation Measures VMT Reduction Estimates. AG2. Reduce the amount of burned agricultural residue. Actions: - Support Butte County Air Quality Management District permitting efforts to reduce residue burn. - Connect agricultural operators to cost-effective chipping or other group options for agricultural waste. - Investigate interest and feasibility for development of centralized chipping programs in coordination with other green waste efforts at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. - Encourage the processing of agricultural waste products into building materials and biofuels. GHG Assumptions: Butte County Climate Action Plan �= 2020 . .... ... .. ...... .. 2030 . .. ... . . . . . .. ... . . ................... ........ .... Almond acreage harvested per year 19,981 19,981 .. ........... .... . Tons of almond residue burned per Walnut acreage harvested per year -- - - ---------- - - - ------------ ----- 17,511 17,511 Tons of walnut residue burned oer acre 1.2 1,2 Butte County Climate Action Plan �= GHG Reduction: ---- - - ----- -------- — - ------ . . ....... 203-0� Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) 790 790 Performance Indicators: Reduced burnt agricultural residue (tons) 484 GHG Sources - Butte County. 2007, 2006 Butte County Agricultural Crop Report, California Air Resources Board. 2008 Greenhouse Gas Emissions lnventory: Agriculture and Forestry: Ag; Residue Burned, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/dlata/data.htm. AG3. Optimize the efficiency of water irrigation practices through clean, alternative irrigation energy sources® Actions: - Work with Butte County Air Quality Management District to review the success of the countywide pump amnesty program, - Develop a local amnesty program to register all agricultural pumps throughout the county and support Butte County Air Quality Management District efforts. - Promote rebate opportunities for solar PV -powered pump equipment through the Farm Bureau and with other agricultural partners. G 1 Assumptions: 2039 Percent of a lturall pumps converted to solar 25% 25% . . . . . . . .. .... ........... . ..... -19i!c-u'-- . . . . ............... ..... ........... . . GHG Reduction: 2029 203'0 missions reduction (MTCO2e) 70 7,070 Performance Indicators: 2020 Number of pumps converted to solar power 120 120 GG Sources: California Air Resources Board. 2003, Fuel Consumption Methodologies for Agricultural lrrigation Engines, (category 052-042-1200-0000). http://www.arb.ca.gov/ei/areasrc/FULLPDF/FULLI-l.pdf. ---. 2006. Rulemaking to Consider Proposed Amendments to the Stationary Diesel Engine Control Measure - Appendix D: Emission Inventory Methodology Agricultural Irrigation Pumps - Diesel. http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/ag!en06/append.pdf. AG4. Improve maintenance of agricultural vehicles to reduce fuel use. Actions: Promote best practices in agricultural equipment maintenance. Collaborate with the Butte County Air Quality Management District to publicize rebates for improvements. Provide materials promoting the transition to consolidated farm equipment. GHG Assumptions: .. . ...... . ............. . ........... 2 Reductions from, best management practices .. . ... .. 5% 5% GHG Reduction: 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO2e) ........... 1,860 1,860 Performance Indicators: . . .......... . 2020 2030 Percent of agricultural equipment participating50% . . ........ . . ........ . .... ............ . . . 50% GHG Sources: California Air Resources Board, OFFROAD 2007. http://www,arb.ca.gov/msei/categories.htm#offroad—motor..-vehicles. AGS. Implement best practices in fertilizer and pesticide use. Actions: - Collaborate with stakeholders, to support the efficient use of fertilizer. GHG Assumptions: - ......... ...... .. .. . ... - ----- - - 11 .. -- -- -- - 1 2020 .1-1111, 1 1 2030 -... - --- Reduction in applied nitrogen from 2006 baseline 5% 5% 1�utte County Climate Action Plan GHG Reduction: ..... . ........ 2020 2030 . . . . ............... . . . ... .. ... Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) 4,660 4,660 Performance Indicators: 2928 23 .............. .......... . .. ... . . ... . . ... .. ... .. . . . . . .. . ..... .. .......................... . .... Reduction in tons of applied nitrogen from 2012 levels 330 1 330 . . ............. . ... ..... GHG Soures: California Air Resources Board. 2008 Greenhouse Gas Emissions lnvientory: Agriculture and Forestry: N20 from Nitrogen Applied in Fertilizer. http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/inventory/data/data.htm, W1. Sustain a maximum practical methane capture rate at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. Actions: - Continue to monitor landfill gas emissions, - Expand the collection system as needed to comply with provisions of the Landfifl Methane Rule (AB32). - Extend the long-term landfill gas purchase agreement as appropriate at the conclusion of the, current agreement. - Research and develop conversion technology that results in, increased capture of methane associated with organic waste. GHG Assumptions: 2Q2 23 . .......... . ..... . .................. ................ . .......... . .... ........................ ...... .... . . ....... .. Methane capture rate 900/0 GHG Sources: Personal communication with Bill Mannel: Waste Management Division Manager, Butte County Department of Public Works. May 16, 2013.. California Air Resources Board. 2011, ARB Landfill Emissions Tool. hittp://www,arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/l�ocalgov/lo�calgov.htm. W2. Adopt a countywide diversion rate target of 75%, consistent with, state policy. 1111111 p 11111111111111111111111111 111 Cr 2 2920 _2030 e Targemethane capture rate t - — - - - % 90%_ GHG Reduction: ------------ 2 0 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) _6,160 -6,720 2Q2 23 . .......... . ..... . .................. ................ . .......... . .... ........................ ...... .... . . ....... .. Methane capture rate 900/0 GHG Sources: Personal communication with Bill Mannel: Waste Management Division Manager, Butte County Department of Public Works. May 16, 2013.. California Air Resources Board. 2011, ARB Landfill Emissions Tool. hittp://www,arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/l�ocalgov/lo�calgov.htm. W2. Adopt a countywide diversion rate target of 75%, consistent with, state policy. 1111111 p 11111111111111111111111111 111 Cr 2 Actions: - Adopt an ordinance identifying the 75% diversion rate target consistent with AB 341. - Develop program with haulers to track large waste generators. - U'nder a voluntary program, certify facilities that are achieving: or exceeding 50% waste diversion to achieve a 75% diversion rate by 2020, - Support local facilities and programs that result in additional diversion of organic waste. GHG Assumptions: GHG Sources: California Air Resources Board. 2011 , ARB Landfilll Emissions Tool. http://www.arb.ca.g!ov/cc/protocols/localgov/localgov,htm. California Integrated Waste Management Board, 2006, Targeted Statewide Waste Characterization Study: 'Waste Disposal and Diversion, CalRecycle. 1999. Solid Waste Characterization, Database, http://www.calrecycie.ca.giov/WasteChar/rescomp.as,p?J=429&SortBy=Disposail.CalRecycle report, — — — Hwww,calrecycle.ca.gov/LGCentral/Reports .2012. Disposal Reporting System. h:ttp.- /DRS/Destination/JurDspFa.aspx. 2® Improve operations with energy-efficient equipment, Actions: Adopt a revised procurement manivai with a policy that requires consideration of energy-efficient options such as ENERGY STAR products when purchasing new equipment. Reduce the number of computer network servers by upgrading to virtual servers. Install automatic thermostat controls on facilities to help regulate building temperatures for diverse users. Install other automatic sensors to eliminate unnecessary energy use in energy and lighting, using technologies such as plug loads, occupancy sensors, and timers. W'utte County Climate Action Plan ME 2030 Target d iversio n rate . . . .. . . . .... .............................. . . . ... ..... 75% 75% GH G Reduction, 2020 2030 ..... . . .... __ Emissions reduction (MTCO,e)-6,010 -- - ------- -6,720 . . ........... .. . . Performance Indicators: . . . . . . .. ....... ................... - --------- 2020 2030 Decreased landfill tonnage per service population . . . ...... ....... . . ................ --------- -025 . . . -U6 . . . . . . . ..... .................... . ........... Reduction in landfilled tonnaqe -28,570 -31,94( GHG Sources: California Air Resources Board. 2011 , ARB Landfilll Emissions Tool. http://www.arb.ca.g!ov/cc/protocols/localgov/localgov,htm. California Integrated Waste Management Board, 2006, Targeted Statewide Waste Characterization Study: 'Waste Disposal and Diversion, CalRecycle. 1999. Solid Waste Characterization, Database, http://www.calrecycie.ca.giov/WasteChar/rescomp.as,p?J=429&SortBy=Disposail.CalRecycle report, — — — Hwww,calrecycle.ca.gov/LGCentral/Reports .2012. Disposal Reporting System. h:ttp.- /DRS/Destination/JurDspFa.aspx. 2® Improve operations with energy-efficient equipment, Actions: Adopt a revised procurement manivai with a policy that requires consideration of energy-efficient options such as ENERGY STAR products when purchasing new equipment. Reduce the number of computer network servers by upgrading to virtual servers. Install automatic thermostat controls on facilities to help regulate building temperatures for diverse users. Install other automatic sensors to eliminate unnecessary energy use in energy and lighting, using technologies such as plug loads, occupancy sensors, and timers. W'utte County Climate Action Plan ME GHG Assumptions: .. . .............. . ..... . ........ . . ______. . . . ............ - - ----- . . .. ................ . 2020 2030 Percent of facilities to be retrofitted30% -- - -___ ------ . ...... ... .. 50% lmpllementationrate . . . . . ................................. . . . . . . 50% 80% GHG Reduction: ...................... .......... . O� ...... . .. ........... ....... ... . ......... ------- 2020 --------- 2030 ---- ....... . . . Emissions reduction (MTCO2e) -260 -680 220 2CCi . . ...... .... . ...... Retrofitted square feet3,00,000 500,000 . ... ... ....... ... .. . . . ......... GHG Sources: Brown, Rich, Sam Borgeson, Jon Koomey, and Peter Biermayer. 20018. U.S, Building -Sector Energy Efficiency Potential. Itron, lnc. 2007, California Commercial End-use Survey - Results Page. http://capabilities.itron.comi/CeusWeb/Chart.aspx. G06. Reduce fuel use in the County fleet. Actions: - Track options for alternative fuelvehicles and equipment. - Continue to review options through the Fleet Committee. - Implement CARB standards with replacement of the County's heavy-duty diesel vehicles (>14,000 lb). GWG Assumptions: 11W Target fleet mpg average . . . . . ........ ..... . . . .. . ... . .... ............... GHG Sources: Butte County Records. local Government Operations Protocol 0.1. 2021.—._ 10.5 10.5 - - - - -- -------------------- 2020 2030 -45�0 -1,040 . . .................................................... --------- O� 20�30, 12 15 G08. Construct new buildings to CALG!reen"Tier I standards. Actions,: in addition to meetings LEER Silver standards (or equivalent) as required by General Plan COS -P2.3, new County facilities exceeding 3,000 square feet will meet CALGreen Tier I standards for energy efficiency, a 15% improvement over minimum energy standards. GHG Assumptions: FOUM, =*. New square feet built to CALGreen Tier 1 60,000 60,000 GHG Sources: California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. G09. Reduce methane emissions from the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. Actions: - Set a goal to achieve a total methane capture rate of 90% at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. GHG Assumptions: 2020 2020 2030 kWh percent reduction from Tier 1 ......... .. . . . . . . .. .............. 3,9% ....... .. . . . . . . . ..... . ....................... ............ 3.9�% . .... ... ............. . ....... . . . . ...... . ..... Therm percent reduction from Tier 1 GHG Reduction: 9.9% 9.9% GHG Reduction: 2020 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) . . . .......... ..... . ......... . ... . ............... . .... ..... . .......... ... .. 2020 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO2e) Performance Indicators. -10, -10 FOUM, =*. New square feet built to CALGreen Tier 1 60,000 60,000 GHG Sources: California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. G09. Reduce methane emissions from the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. Actions: - Set a goal to achieve a total methane capture rate of 90% at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. GHG Assumptions: Butte County Climate Action Plan a."A 2020 2030 Methane emissions at 75% capture . ... . .............. .... . . .......... . . . ....................... ... . ....... . .......................... ........ — ------------ 15,950 17,560 Total methane ..emissions (fugitive ,,-and -captured) . . . . ........ 63,800 70,240 GHG Reduction: . . ............ ...................... 2020 2030 Emissions reduction (MTCO,e) . . . .......... ..... . ......... . ... . ............... . .... ..... . .......... ... .. ..... ........ -9,570 -1 0,54C Performance Indicators. . .. ... .. . . .. ... . . .... ............ ...... ........ . ..... ...... . ............. - ---- - -------------- 2020 2030 Methane emissions at 901% capture 6�,3,8,0 7,020 Butte County Climate Action Plan a."A of Pubilic Works, May 16:,2013. M "TALAM-1 'UMIA41 EXHIBIT B EIR Addendum for Butte County Climate Action Plan February 25, 2014 dl -11 UONUNTY OF BUTTE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ADDENDUM TO THE GENERAL PLAN EIR 10*1 Prepared for: mmzmlm�� WASTERwasill "Zo Prepared by: e- 140 - 140 INDEPENDENCE CIRCLE' SUITE C CHICO, CA 95973 COUNTY OF BUTTE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ADDENDUM TO THE GENERAL PLAN EIR SCH# 2008092062 Prepared for: COUNTY OF BUTTE DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES 7 COUNTY CENTER DRIVE OROVILLE, CA 95965 Prepared by: PMC 140 INDEPENDENCE CIRCLE, SUITE C CHICO, CA 95973 DECEMBER 2013 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background and Purpose of the EIR Addendum....................................................................1.0-1 1.2 Basis for Decision to Prepare Addendum.................................................................................1.0-2 1.3 Programmatic Tiering for Future Projects Addressing Greenhouse Gas Emissions ............ 1.0-4 1.4 Organization and Scope..............................................................................................................1.0-6 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2.1 Local and Regional Setting.........................................................................................................2.0-1 2.2 Butte County General Plan and General Plan EIR.............. .................................................... 2.0-1 2.3 Butte County Climate Action Plan.............................................................................................2.0-2 2.4 Regulatory Requirements, Permits, and Approvals.................................................................2.0-7 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL. ANALYSIS Introduction...................................................................................................... .........3.0-1 ................................... 3.1 Agricultural Resources..................................................................................................................3.0-3 3.2 Biological Resources....- ............................................................................................................... 3.0-8 3.3 Greenhouse Gas Emissions....................................................................................................... 3.0-13 3.4 Hydrology and Water Quality.................................................................................................. 3.0-16 3.5 Noise..............................................................................................................................................3.0-23 3.6 Traffic and Circulation............................................................................................................... 3.0-26 4.0 REFERENCES APPENDICES Appendix A - Proposed Climate Action Plan Measures and Actions Appendix B - General Plan Policy Matrix LIST OF TABLES Table 2.0-1 Baseline GHG Emissions........................................................................................................2.0-4 Table 2.0-2 GHG Reduction per Year....................................................................................................2.0-6 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 2.0-1 Climate Action Plan Planning Area...................................................................................2.0-5 County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.0 INTRODUCTION This document has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15164 to serve as an Addendum to the previously certified Butte County General Plan Environmental Impact Report (General Plan EIR; EIR) - State Clearinghouse No. 2008092062 (County of Butte 2010a). Butte County is the lead agency for environmental review of the proposed Climate Action Plan (CAP; Plan; project; proposed project). The CAP implements one of the provisions of the Butte County General Plan (General Plan) to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (see General Plan Action COS -A1.1). This Addendum addresses potential environmental impacts of proposed CAP measures and actions. Future projects will rely on this Addendum to ensure that future development and planning activities within the unincorporated county conform to the objectives of the Plan and state climate change legislation. The environmental analysis provided in Section 3.0 of this Addendum provides substantial evidence to support that none of the circumstances set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 would result from adoption and implementation of the proposed CAP. CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 and the Addendum's consistency with these guidelines are addressed below. The Climate Action Plan and this Addendum to the General Plan EIR were available for review by the public and interested parties, agencies, and organizations from October 17, 2013 to November 20, 2013. The documents were also available for public review online at www.buttecap.net. Information and technical analyses from the General Plan EIR (consisting of the Draft EIR and Final EIR) are utilized throughout this Addendum. These documents, along with the full text of the CAP, are available for review at: County of Butte Development Services Department 7 County Center Drive Oroville, CA 95965 General Plan: http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/ Climate Action Plan, http://www.buttecap.net/ 1.1 BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE OF THE EIR ADDENDUM The Butte County General Pian was adopted and the General Plan EIR was certified in April 2010 by the County of Butte Board of Supervisors (County Resolutions 10-152 and 10-150). General Plan goals, policies, and actions to address global GHG emissions include, but are not limited to, a requirement to reduce GHG emissions from County operations and community -wide sources. General Plan Action COS -A].] specifically calls for preparation, maintenance, and implementation of a CAP as follows: COS -Al. i . Within one year of adoption of the 2030 General Plan, coordinate with regional agencies to develop a Climate Action Plan, which, in combination with other existing policies and regulations by other agencies and business sectors of the economy, would achieve reduction consistent with State guidelines using methodology deemed appropriate at the time of quantification. include the following as components in the Climate Action Plan: County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR 1.0-1 1.0 INTRODUCTION a. Establish a detailed inventory of current (2006) GHG emissions in Butte County, including, but not limited to, residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural emissions. b. Forecast GHG emissions for areas within the jurisdictional control of the County for "business as usual" conditions in 2020. c. Identify methods to reduce GHG emissions to a level that would achieve reduction consistent with State guidelines at the time of quantification. d. Quantify the 2030 reductions in GHG emissions from the identified methods. e. Require monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions. f. Establish a schedule of actions for implementation through 2020. g. Identify funding sources for implementation through 2020. h. identify a process to set a reduction goal for 2030 by 2020. Update the Climate Action Plan by 2020 to include reduction measures to achieve the adopted 2030 reduction goal. j. Develop a Climate Change Preparedness Plan that will prepare for the impacts of climate change on the county's economic and natural ecosystems and promote a climate -resilient community. The proposed CAP identifies a GHG emissions reduction target and describes how the County will reduce both community -wide and government operations emissions to achieve the target. The CAP provides measures and associated actions for energy efficiency and renewable energy, alternative fuel vehicles and equipment, transportation, agriculture, and solid waste. It also addresses GHG emissions generated from County government operations and outlines a strategy the County can use to adapt to a changing climate. A list of proposed CAP measures and actions can be found in Appendix A. 1.2 BASIS FOR DECISION TO PREPARE ADDENDUM In determining whether an Addendum is the appropriate document to analyze modifications to the General Pan and its approval, State CEQA Guidelines Section 15164 (Addendum to an Eli? or Negative Declaration) states [subsection b has intentionally been omitted, as it is not relevant to this discussion]: The lead agency or responsible agency shall prepare on addendum to a previously certified EIR if some changes or additions are necessary but none of the conditions described in Section 15162 calling for preparation of a subsequent EIR have occurred. (c) An addendum need not be circulated for public review but can be included in or attached to the final EIR or adopted negative declaration. (d) The decision-making body shall consider the addendum with the final EIR or adopted negative declaration prior to making a decision on the project. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 1.0-2 County of Butte December 2013 1.0 INTRODUCTION (e) A brief explanation of the decision not to prepare a subsequent EIR pursuant to Section 15162 should be included in an addendum to an EIR, the lead agency's required findings on the project, or elsewhere in the record. The explanation must be supported by substantial evidence. Since the General Plan EIR has been certified, the environmental impacts of subsequent activities proposed under the General Plan (in this case, the proposed CAP) must be examined in light of the impact analysis in the certified EIR to determine if additional CEQA documentation must be prepared. One of the standards that applies is whether, under Public Resources Code Section 21 166 and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162 and 15163, there are new significant effects or other grounds that require preparation of a subsequent EIR or supplemental EiR in support of further agency action on the project. Under these guidelines, a subsequent or supplemental EIR shall be prepared if any of the following criteria are met. (a) When an EIR has been certified or negative declaration adopted for a project, no subsequent EIR shall be prepared for that project unless the lead agency determines, on the basis of substantial evidence in the light of the whole record, one or more of the following: (1) Substantial changes are proposed in the project which will require major revisions of the previous EIR or negative declaration due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects; (2) Substantial changes occur with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken which will require major revisions of the previous EIR or negative declaration due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects; or (3) New information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was certified as complete or the negative declaration was adopted, shows any of the following: (A) The project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR or negative declaration; (B) Significant effects previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown in the previous EIR; (C) Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would in fact be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the project, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative; or (o) Mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the previous EiR would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative. As demonstrated in the environmental analysis provided in Section 3.0, Environmental Analysis, of this document, none of the conditions that had been analyzed in the General Plan EIR would County of Buffe December 2013 1.0-3 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan fig 1.0 INTRODUCTION change with adoption and implementation of the proposed CAP. Furthermore, no new information of substantial importance meeting the criteria listed in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a) (3) (A -D) has been identified. Therefore, the proposed CAP, as an implementing program for the General Plan, does not meet the criteria for preparing a subsequent or supplemental EIR. As a result, the County of Butte, as lead agency, is preparing an Addendum to the General Plan EIR, and the project may be approved as a covered activity within the scope of the General Plan EIR. 1.3 PROGRAMMATIC TIERING FOR FUTURE PROJECTS ADDRESSING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(a) includes the following provisions for addressing GHGs: (a) Lead agencies may analyze and mitigate the significant effects of greenhouse gas emissions at a programmatic level, such as in a general plan, a long range development plan, or a separate plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Later project -specific environmental documents may tier from and/or incorporate by reference that existing programmatic review. Project -specific environmental documents may rely on an EIR containing a programmatic analysis of greenhouse gas emissions as provided in section 15152 (tiering), 15167 (staged EIRs) 15168 (program EIRs), 15175-15179.5 (Master EIRs, 15182 (EIRs Prepared for Specific Plans), and 15153 (EIRs Prepared for General Plans, Community Plans, or Zoning). This Addendum is a programmatic document analyzing the CAP's relationship to the previously approved General Plan and certified General Plan ElR. It can facilitate future environmental review of projects by enabling them to tier from and/or incorporate by reference, the analysis presented in this Addendum. (b) Plans for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Public agencies may choose to analyze and mitigate significant greenhouse gas emissions in a plan for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions or similar document. A plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions may be used in a cumulative impacts analysis as set forth below. Pursuant to sections 15064(h) (3) and 15130(d), a lead agency may determine that a project's incremental contribution to a cumulative effect is not cumulatively considerable if the project complies with the requirements in a previously adopted plan or mitigation program under specified circumstances. (1) Plan Elements. A plan for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions should: (A) Quantify greenhouse gas emissions, both existing and projected over a specified time period, resulting from activities within a defined geographic area: (B) Establish a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution to greenhouse gas emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable, (C) Identify and analyze the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions anticipated within the geographic area; (D) Specify measures or a group of measures, including performance standards, that substantial evidence demonstrates, if implemented on a project -by - project basis, would collectively achieve the specified emissions level; Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EiR 1.0-4 County of Butte December 2013 1.0 INTRODUCTION (E) Establish a mechanism to monitor the plan's progress toward achieving the level and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving specified levels; (F) Be adopted in a public process following environmental review. In addition to GHG-reducing measures and actions, the CAP presents a GHG emissions inventory for unincorporated Butte County. The GHG inventory calculates municipal and community -wide emissions caused by activities in 2006, including agriculture, on -road transportation, residential energy, nonresidential energy, off-road equipment, waste, and the conveyance of wastewater and water. The inventory establishes a baseline against which future changes in emissions can be measured and provides an understanding of major sources of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. It is based on the GHG emissions inventory contained in the General Plan EIR, but includes several revisions designed to focus GHG analysis on emissions sectors the County can reasonably influence and to incorporate newer emissions factors and methodologies not in place at the time the General Plan EIR was prepared. Such factors and methodologies do not constitute new information of substantial importance as identified in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(3)(A-0). The CAP demonstrates the County's efforts to address climate change by reducing local GHG emissions, with an emphasis on improving the energy efficiency of buildings, renewable energy, and preparing the county to adapt to a changing climate. The CAP builds on County General Plan policies and actions to reduce local GHG emissions and identifies how the County will achieve a GHG emissions reduction target of 15 percent below baseline levels by the year 2020, in addition to other energy efficiency, water conservation, and air quality goals identified in the General Plan. To achieve the community -wide GHG emissions reduction target of 15 percent below 2006 baseline levels by 2020, the County intends to implement a variety of GHG reduction measures addressing energy efficiency and renewable energy, alternative fuel vehicles and equipment, transportation, agriculture, solid waste, and County government operations. Following adoption, the CAP will be the County's primary tool to implement General Plan goals to reduce GHG emissions. CAP actions will be integrated in County processes, trigger ordinance updates, and initiate policy and procedure revisions. Departments will consider the CAP when preparing annual work plans. The County Department of Development Services will lead implementation of the CAP in coordination with other departments, support integration of the CAP info County operations, and review future projects for consistency with Plan measures and actions. This EIR Addendum provides environmental review for the proposed CAP and was circulated for a 30 -day review period along with the Draft CAP. The County did not receive any comments on the ElR Addendum during the public review period. The County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors will consider the EIR Addendum during public hearings to consider adoption of the CAP. 1.4 ORGANIZATION AND SCOPE SECTION 1.0 —INTRODUCTION Section 1.0 provides an introduction and overview describing the intended use of the General Plan EIR Addendum. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR 1.0-5 1.0 INTRODUCTION SECTION 2.0 - PROJECT DESCRIPTION This section describes the proposed project. SECTION 3.0 - ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS This section contains an analysis of environmental topic areas that were addressed in the County General Plan EIR and their relationship to proposed CAP measures and actions. REFERENCES This section provides a list of materials used and persons contacted in the preparation of the Addendum APPENDICES Appendix A - provides a list of proposed CAP measures and actions. Appendix 8 - General Plan Policy Matrix Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR County of Butte December 2013 2.,0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This section provides a detailed description of the proposed Butte County Climate Action Plan (CAP; Plan; proposed project; project). Please refer to Section 3.0, Environmental Analysis, of this document for the analysis of environmental effects of this project in relation to the previous analysis provided in the Butte County General Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (State Clearinghouse No. 2008092062) (County of Butte 2010a). 2.1 LOCAL AND REGIONAL SETTING PROJECT LOCATION Butte County lies in north -central California at the northeastern end of the Sacramento Valley, approximately 150 miles northeast of San Francisco and 70 miles north of Sacramento. From the northeastern end of the Sacramento Valley, Butte County extends into the foothills at the confluence of the southern Cascade and the northern Sierra Nevada mountain ranges (see Figure 3-1 of the General Plan EIR). PROJECT SETTING The total land area of Butte County is approximately 1,680 square miles and can be divided into three general topographical areas: the western 45 percent of the county is a valley area, about 25 percent of the county is foothills located to the east of the valley, and the eastern 30 percent of the county is mountainous. Most of Butte County's urbanized areas are located in the Sacramento River valley near prime agricultural lands and major transportation corridors. Urbanized areas in the county include the five incorporated municipalities: Chico, Orovilie, Paradise, Gridley, and Biggs, as well as numerous smaller unincorporated communities. Land inside the city or town limits of incorporated municipalities is not under Butte County's jurisdiction. Therefore, proposed CAP measures focus on lands in unincorporated Butte County, which contains approximately 83,900 peopie. Regional access to the county is provided primarily by major highway corridors. State Routes (SR) 70 and 99 extend in a north -south direction through Butte County and are the principal transportation corridors connecting the county to the region. SR 32 and SR 162 provide subregional connections to areas to the east, northeast, and west of the county and to Interstate 5 (I-5). The current Butte County transportation network includes facilities for private automobiles, bus transit, bicycles, pedestrians, specialized transportation for seniors and people with physical or mental disabilities, freight on trucks and rail, business and recreational use of four airports (Chico Municipal Airport, Oroville Municipal Airport, Paradise Skypark Airport, and Ranchaero Airport), and walking and biking trails. 2.2 BUTTE COUNTY GENERAL PLAN AND GENERAL PLAN EIR California state law requires each city and county to adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan for the physical development of the city or county and any land outside its boundaries that bears relation to its planning (California Government Code Section 65300). The general plan expresses the community's development goals and embodies public policy relative to the distribution of future land uses, both public and private. A city or county's zoning, specific plans, subdivisions, capital improvements, development agreements, and many other land use actions must be consistent with the adopted general plan. In accordance with California Government Code Section 65302, a genera! plan must address seven issue areas. These issue areas, typically addressed as general plan elements, consist of County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan FIR 2.0-1 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. California Government Code Section 65300.5 specifically requires that the elements and associated policy provisions are internally consistent and that no one element or provision of a genera( plan carries greater weight than another. The Butte County General Plan identifies the County's development goals and policies relative to the distribution of future land uses and provides a basis for local government land use decisions as well as informs citizens, developers, and decision -makers of the guidelines for development in the county. The Butte County General Plan was last updated and adopted in October 2010. The General Plan EIR was certified in April 2010. The adopted General Plan includes all seven mandated elements encapsulated in the General Plan's Land Use Element, Housing Element, Circulation Element, Conservation and Open Space Element, and Health and Safety Element. In addition, the County adopted five optional elements: Economic Development Element, Agriculture Efement, Water Resources Element, Public Facilities and Services Element, and Area and Neighborhood Plans Element. Among other topics, policies and actions identified in these elements address sustainability, conservation, and climate change. These provisions, included in Section 3.0 this document, were analyzed in the General Plan EIR (County of Butte 2010a). 2.3 BUTTE COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN The County acknowledges that global climate change may have significant impacts locally and throughout California unless significant steps are taken to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As stated in Section 1.0, Introduction, the Butte County General Plan specifically calls for preparation, maintenance, and implementation of a climate action plan in Conservation and Open Space Element Action COS -A1.1. Climate action plans represent a way for jurisdictions to determine consistency with state legislation to reduce GHG emissions. Climate action pians encompass a jurisdiction's current and future efforts to reduce GHG emissions and the negative effects of global climate change. Climate action plans are an integral part of linking planning and development with state requirements and regional GHG-reducing efforts. The Butte County CAP demonstrates the County's effort to address climate change by reducing local GHG emissions, with an emphasis on improving the energy efficiency of buildings, renewable energy, and preparing the county to adapt to a changing climate. REGULATORY FRAMEWORK Specific legislation that relates to climate change and GHG reduction includes Assembly Bill (AB) 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Health and Safety Code Sections 38500, 38501, 28510, 38530, 38550, 38560, 38561-38565, 38570, 38571, 38574, 38580, 38590, 38592-38599), which requires California to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. AB 32 also directs the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to develop and implement regulations that reduce statewide GHG emissions. The Climate Change Scoping Plan (Scoping Plan) was approved by CARB in December 2008 and outlines the state's plan to achieve the GHG reductions required in AB 32. Regulations aimed at reducing GHG emissions have been adopted at the state level; however, local agency actions will also be important in achieving the AB 32 reduction target. CARB has recommended a GHG reduction goal for local governments of 15 percent below 2005-2008 levels by 2020 to ensure that municipal and community -wide emissions match the state's reduction target. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 2.0-2 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION BACKGROUND The County developed the CAP to implement policy direction established by the County Board of Supervisors in the Butte County General Plan. Conservation and Open Space Element Goal COS -1 directs the County to reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, and the General Plan also commits the County to prepare a CAP to achieve these emissions levels and to set emissions reduction goals for future years beyond 2020 (General Plan Action COS -A1.1). Before adopting the General Plan, County staff conducted extensive public outreach to shape a long- term vision and priorities. This engagement process focused the General Plan on strategies to reduce emissions, protect resources, and enhance the environment, while improving local quality of life. PURPOSE OF THE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN The Butte County Department of Development Services coordinated preparation of the CAP for the unincorporated area of Butte County. The CAP planning area (Figure 2.0-1) is identical to the General Plan planning area and includes all unincorporated portions of Butte County. The CAP is an implementation mechanism of the County's General Plan adopted in 2012, providing goals, policies, and programs to reduce GHG emissions, address climate change adaptation, and improve quality of life in the county. The CAP aiso supports statewide GHG emissions reduction goals identified in AB 32 and Senate Bill (SB) 375. Measures and actions in the CAP will help the county sustain its natural resources, grow efficiently, ensure long-term resiliency to a changing environmental and economic climate, and improve transportation. The CAP will also serve as a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), simplifying development review for new projects that are consistent with the CAP. The CAP identifies a GHG emissions reduction target of 15 percent below baseline levels by the year 2020. The year 2006 has been identified as the baseline year in conformance with state legislation. In 2006, community -wide activities, including County government operations, emitted approximately 911,630 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (MTCO2e) (County of Butte 2013).1 This number represents the baseline level of GHG emissions. As shown in Table 2.0-1, under a business -as -usual forecast scenario consistent with land uses identified in the Butte County General Plan, these community -wide emissions would increase to 1,015,260 MTCO2e (+11%) by 2020 and to 1,111,120 MTCO2e (+22%) by 2030. The inventory and forecasts are based on the GHG emissions inventory and forecasts contained in the General Plan EIR, yet include several revisions designed to focus GHG analysis on emissions sectors the County can reasonably influence, and incorporate newer emissions factors and methodologies not in place at the time the General Plan EIR was prepared. Such factors and methodologies do not constitute new information of substantial importance as identified in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(3) (A -D). 1 Carbon dioxide equivalents represent the standard measurement unit for greenhouse gas emissions. County of Butte December 2013 2.0-3 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION TABLE 2.0-1 BASELINE GHG EMISSIONS Baseline GHG Emissions MTCO2e 2005 2020 2030 GHG Emissions Baseline and Forecast 911,630 1,015,260 1,111,120 Percentage of Increase 11% 22% The purpose of the Butte County CAP is to identify how the County will achieve its GHG emissions target of 15 percent below baseline year 2006 emissions levels by the year 2020 through the local benefits of statewide emissions reduction policies and proposed CAP measures and actions for energy efficiency and renewable energy, alternative fuel vehicles and equipment, transportation, agriculture, and solid waste. The CAP also identifies measures and actions to reduce emissions from County government operations and adapt to a changing climate. POTENTIAL PHYSICAL CHANGES The policies and programs in the proposed CAP build upon and support General Plan sustainability goals and policies. They are intended to provide a basis for the future measurement and tracking necessary for implementing the General Plan and to provide more specific actions to reduce GHGs. Many of the measures and actions relate to processes, strategies, analyses, and coordination efforts that would not result in any physical changes to the environment. However, some proposed measures and actions involve promoting energy efficiency upgrades to structures, increasing renewable energy facilities, amending the Zoning Ordinance and General Plan to include a PV (photovoltaic) overlay, and providing for new park-and-ride lots, among other activities. These activities could directly or indirectly result in physical changes to the environment. For example, several actions in the proposed CAP promote installing solar photovoltaic panels on residential and commercial structures, as well as at other locations. The placement of solar panels where solar panels did not previously exist could be considered a direct physical change in the environment. All proposed CAP measures and actions are listed in Appendix A. The proposed CAP does not consist of one or more actual development projects involving physical construction. When specific implementing projects are identified, such as the location and size of solar panel projects, the development applications for such individual projects, as required, would be submitted separately to the City for review and would be subject, if necessary, to separate site-specific CFQA analysis. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan E1R December 2013 2.0-4 I'll w . 'I, , JOILM-111410 VII -11- j Otj(ro-� Umes Butte cwty scundwy M.j- A.A, IZ3 O,tho, C."my P-6,7 P'N Mam IUW,WM;Jd5I4FffWI "M Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION As shown in Table 2.0-2, measures and actions proposed in the Climate Action Plan have the potential to reduce GHG emissions by 121,990 MTCO2e per year by 2020. With the incorporation of California state -mandated initiatives such as the Renewables Portfolio Standard, Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Standards (Pavley and Low Carbon Fuel Standard), and updated Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards, emissions in Butte County would be reduced by an additional 101,940 MTCO2e per year. Lastly, current GHG emissions -reducing efforts in the county, such as the generation of energy from landfill emissions at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility and the reduction of annual burned crop residue, would reduce GHG emissions by 30,100 MTCO2e per year. Total projected emissions reductions from local CAP measures and actions, state - mandated initiatives, and current county reduction efforts would equal 254,030 MTCO2e per year by 2020. Accounting for the reduction total of 254,030 MTCO2e, countywide GHG emissions in the year 2020 are projected to be 761,230 MTCO2e. This total represents a reduction of 16.5 percent from the 2006 baseline by 2020. TABLE 2.0-2 GHG REDUCTION PER YEAR GHG Reduction} per Year MTCO2e 2020 CAP Measures and Actions -12T,990 California State -Mandated Initiatives -101,940 Current County GHG Emissions -Reducing Efforts -31,100 Total -254,030 Reduction -16.5% Butte County also faces a number of current hazards and vulnerabilities that would be exacerbated under a changing climate. The CAP includes adaptation measures to help Butte County's agricultural, ecological, and economic systems to prepare for and adjust to the effects of climate change. Examples include establishing cooling centers during heat waves, promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy to reduce peak load demand, and developing low - impact development standards to reduce stormwafer runoff and increase groundwater recharge. Proposed CAP GHG reduction and adaptation measures and actions are included in Appendix A of this document. PROJECT OBJECTIVES The primary objective of the CAP is to comply with the objective of the General Plan to provide a County strategy to address climate change locally. As such, the CAP is considered a subsequent project under the County's General Plan. Specifically, the proposed CAP is designed to achieve the following project objectives: 1. Provide a scientific and regulatory framework for addressing climate change and GHGs at the local level. 2. Identify sources of GHG emissions within the unincorporated county and estimate how these emissions may change over time. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan flR December 2013 2.0-6 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3. Forecast emissions to reflect the County's desired growth projections without regulatory or technical intervention to reduce GHG emissions. 4. Provide an emissions reduction target consistent with AB 32 and the General Plan. 5. Provide energy use, transportation, agricultural, and solid waste strategies to reduce community -wide GHG emissions and quantify potential emissions reductions to be achieved by implementing these strategies. b. Identify existing and proposed strategies to reduce GHG emissions from County operations and facilities and quantify the potential emissions reductions. 7. Provide methods to reduce county GHG emissions consistent with the State's goals and Public Resources Code Section 21083.3. [The CEQA Guidelines encourage the adoption of policies or programs as a means of addressing comprehensively the cumulative impacts of projects. See CEQA Guidelines Section 15064, subd. (h) (3), Section 15130, subd. (d).] 8. Provide strategies to assist the County's agricultural, ecological, and economic systems to prepare for and adjust to the effects of climate change. 9. Present an implementation program to assist with monitoring and prioritization of the reduction and adaptation strategies through 2020. 2.4 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS, PERMITS, AND APPROVALS No permits or approvals are required from other agencies for the proposed CAP. However, the success of the CAP will rely on collaborative and dynamic partnerships with the private sector, community groups, trade associations, and other agencies and stakeholders. Specifically, the following agencies are identified as partners to assist the County in implementing the Climate Action Plan: • Butte County Air Quality Management District • California Office of Emergency Services • Western Canal Water District • University of California Cooperative Extension, Butte County • City of Oroville • California State University, Chico • Butte County Association of Governments • Butte College County of Butte December 2013 2.0-7 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan E1R This page intentionally left blank. i< 1 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS INTRODUCTION This section of the Addendum provides analysis and substantial evidence that supports the County's determination that the measures and actions in the CAP do not meet the criteria for preparing a subsequent or supplemental EIR under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 and are consistent with the provisions of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5. First, as addressed in the analysis below, the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions -reducing measures and actions proposed in the Plan are beneficial. Implementation of the CAP would not cause any new significant impacts or substantially increase the severity of previously identified significant impacts identified in the General Pian EIR (per State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a] [I]) that would require major revisions to the General Plan EIR - State Clearinghouse No. 2008092062. Additionally, the General Plan was amended in 2012 and a Supplemental EIR (SCH No. 2012072025) was prepared for the amended General Plana All impacts associated with adoption and implementation of the CAP would be equivalent to, or less than, the impacts previously analyzed in the General Plan EIR and General Plan Supplemental EIR. Second, implementation of the proposed CAP would not result in substantial changes in physical circumstances that would cause a new significant impact or substantially increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact, and there have been no other changes in the circumstances that meet this criterion (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a][2]). Rather, the CAP would result in beneficial actions that promote energy-efficient new development, renewable energy, reduced water and energy use, and waste reduction. There have been no changes in the environmental conditions in the unincorporated county not contemplated and analyzed in the General Plan EIR that would result in new or substantially more severe environmental impacts in association with implementation of the CAP, Third, as documented in this section, there is no new information of substantial importance (which was not known or could not have been known at the time of the General Plan adoption on October 26, 2010) that shows any of the following: 1. A new significant impact (condition A under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a] (3]). 2. A substantial increase in the severity of a previously identified significant impact (condition B under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a] [3] ). 3. Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found infeasible that would now be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the General Plan; or mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the General Plan EIR which would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment (conditions C and D under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162[a] [3]). BUTTE COUNTY GENERAL PLAN CEQA ANALYSIS The Butte County General Plan Environmental Impact Report was certified by the County on October 26, 2010, The General Plan was amended and adopted and a Supplemental Final EIR I For purposes of this Addendum, General Plan EIR references both the original General Plan EIR and the supplement to the General Plan EIR, County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan HEIR 3.0-1 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS was certified by the County Board of Supervisors on November 6, 2012 (County resolution 12-124). Upon complete analysis of the General Plan, the 2010 EIR determined that implementation of the General Plan would result in the following significant and unavoidable project impacts: • Agriculture (Impacts AG -1 and AG -2) • Hydrology and Water Quality (Impacts HYDRO -1 and HYDRO -2) • Noise (Impact NOISE -1) • Transportation and Circulation (Impacts TRAF-1 through TRAF-13) The significant cumulative impacts are in the following topic areas: • Agricuiture (Impact AG -3) • Biological Resources (impact BIO -1) • Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Impact CC -1) • Hydrology and Water Quality (Impact HYDRO -3) • Noise (Impact NOISE -2) • Transportation and Circulation (Impact TRAF-14) The Supplemental EIR determined that the amended General Plan would result in significant and unavoidable impacts in the following topic areas: • Agriculture and Forestry Resources (project Impacts AG -4 and AG -5, cumulative Impact AG --6) • Transportation and Circulation (project Impacts TRAF-15 and TRAF-16) All impacts in the subject areas of aesthetics/visual resources, air quality, cultural resources, geology, soils and mineral resources, hazards and safety, land use and planning, population and housing, public services and recreation, and utilities resulted in no impacts or less than significant impacts. POTENTIAL CLIMATE ACTION PLAN IMPACT AREAS The CAP has been developed as a result of General Plan Goal COS -1 (Reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020) and Action COS Al -A, which states, "within one year of adoption of General Plan 2030, coordinate with regional agencies to develop a Climate Action Plan..." The CAP is consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan as well as with all county land use designations. The CAP does not result in any new development potential or construction of facilities beyond those considered in the General Plan EIR. All development constructed as a result of implementation of CAP measures and actions would be subject to all existing County development standards as well as environmental review according to existing Butte County and Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 9101M► 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS State CEQA requirements. Because the proposed CAP does not result in new development potential beyond that identified in the General Plan, and all future development is subject to existing development standards, implementation of the proposed CAP would not result in new or additional impacts in the following subject areas: • Aesthetics/visual resources • Air quality • Cultural resources • Geology, soils, and mineral resources • Hazards and safety • Land use and planning • Population and housing • Public services and recreation • Utilities Additionally, the goals, policies, and actions in the General Plan 2030, as shown in Appendix B to this Addendum, reduce impacts to these areas to less than significant levels. Therefore, these subject areas are not discussed further in this analysis. The General Plan EIR determined that implementation of the General Plan would result in certain significant and unavoidable impacts, as described above. Implementation of the CAP may affect these determinations by increasing the potential impact. As such, significant and unavoidable impacts in the subject areas of agriculture, hydrology and water quality, noise, and transportation and circulation will be analyzed in this section as to what extent, if any, the implementation of the CAP changes these impacts. PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 3.1 AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTRY RESOURCES Portions of Butte County are located in the vast historical floodplain of the Sacramento and Feather Rivers, an area that is particularly amenable to farming. The floodplains provide fertile, alluvia] sediments with abundant nutrients. The majority of Butte County's farmland is located in the area between the eastern bank of the Sacramento River and the foothills of the Southern Cascade and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. According to the Butte County General Plan, over 60 percent of the county is classified under one of the following agricultural categories: Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland, or Grazing Land. The majority of agricultural land in the county is Grazing Land, which occurs primarily in the mountain and foothill regions (Butte County 2010a, pg. 4.2-6). PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS IN THE GENERAL PLAN EIR Impact AG -1: Although the goals, policies, actions and regulations of General Plan 2030 would reduce and partially offset the conversion of farmland, the proposed project designates approximately 4,700 acres of farmlands of concern under CEQA for non-agricultural uses. Summary: These parcels are small, so they may no longer be viable for current agricultural practices. They are also located close to existing urbanized areas, which General Plan 2030 targets as appropriate locations for future growth. Placing or keeping an agricultural designation on these scattered parcels would make General Plan 2030 internally inconsistent. Therefore, this impact is significant and unavoidable. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General flan EIR 3.0-3 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Impact AG -2: Although the goals, policies, actions and regulations of General Plan 2030 would reduce and partially offset conflicts with Williamson Act contracts, the proposed project designates approximately 90 acres of lands with existing Williamson Act contracts for residential or industrial uses. Summary: The parcels with Williamson Act conflicts are small, and many are located close to existing urbanized areas or established unincorporated communities, which General Plan 2030 targets as appropriate locations for future growth. Small parcels may no longer be viable for current agricultural practices. Placing or keeping an agricultural designation on these parcels would make General Plan 2030 internally inconsistent. Therefore, this impact is significant and unavoidable. Impact AG -3: Although the goals, policies, actions and regulations of General Plan 2030 would reduce and partially offset regional agricultural impacts, the proposed project would contribute to cumulatively significant agricultural impacts in the region. Summary: The amount of growth foreseen in the region and the decisions of surrounding counties regarding conversion of agricultural land are outside the control of Butte County. Therefore, this impact is significant and unavoidable. PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS IN THE GENERAL PLAN SUPPLEMENTAL EIR Impact AG -4: The Modified Project would allow 4,460 acres of forest land to be redesignated to a non -forest designation. Summary: Impacts to these forested areas have largely already been realized from existing or proposed residential development, surrounding residential land use patterns, and the presence of unincorporated communities. The Modified Project proposes to redesignate these lands in recognition of this fact. However, the proposed GPA and Zoning Ordinance cannot undo existing development patterns or residential land uses. For these reasons, the potential impacts of a Timber Mountain designation on these parcels would likely be greater than the potential impacts of the proposed residential designations. Therefore, this impact is significant and unavoidable. Impact AG -5: The Modified Project would allow for the conversion of forest lands to non - forest use because they include non -forest designations on such lands, as described in Impact AG -4. Summary: Impacts to these forested areas have largely already been realized from existing or proposed residential development, surrounding residential land use patterns, and the presence of unincorporated communities. The Modified Project proposes to redesignate these lands in recognition of this fact. However, the proposed GPA and Zoning Ordinance cannot undo existing development patterns or residential land uses. For these reasons, the potential impacts of a Timber Mountain designation on these parcels would likely be greater than the potential impacts of the proposed residential designations. Therefore, this impact is significant and unavoidable. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-4 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Impact AG -6: Although General Plan 2030 goals, policies, and actions related to forest land would reduce and partially offset Butte County's contribution to forest land impacts, the overall cumulative impact would remain significant. Summary: Because the amount of growth foreseen in the region and the decisions of surrounding counties regarding conversion of forest land are outside the control of Butte County, the impact is significant and unavoidable. As described in Section 4.2, Agriculture, of the General Plan EIR and General Plan Supplemental EIR, implementation of the General Plan would result in significant and unavoidable impacts to agriculture. The General Plan EIR determined that adoption and implementation of the following General Plan goals and policies would reduce impacts to agricultural resources, however not to a less than significant level: Agriculture Element Goal AG -2: Protect Butte County's agricultural lands from conversion to non-agricultural uses. Policy AG -P1.3: Continue to work with landowners in establishing new and maintaining existing Williamson Act contracts. Policy AG -P2.1., The County shall work with the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) to create and maintain a consistent approach to the conservation of agricultural land through the designation of reasonable and logical Sphere of Influence (SOI) boundaries. Policy AG -P2.3: Redesignation and rezoning of land designated as Agriculture to an urban designation shall be allowed only when the applicant can demonstrate that the following criteria are met and mitigated: a. The lot(s) for which conversion is requested is adjacent to uses other than agriculture or agricultural support uses (e.g. receiving plants, hulling plants). b. The conversion will not be detrimental to existing agricultural operations. c. The conversion land is adjacent to existing urban infrastructure and conversion will constitute a logical contiguous extension of a designated urban area. d. No feasible alternative exists that is less detrimentai to agriculture. e. Full mitigation of impacts to the extent allowed under the law is provided, including, but not limited to, roads, drainage, schools, fire protection, law enforcement, recreation, sewage and lighting. Policy AG -P2.6: The County shall retain and protect agricultural lands through the use of proactive land use techniques, including, but not limited to, the following: County of Butte December 2013 a. Clustered development projects, allowing a "clustering" of permitted densities in a compact configuration in order to protect agricultural land. 3.0-5 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS b. Density bonuses, permitting increased density on developable land in exchange for protection of agricultural land. Policy AG -P5.1: Agricultural uses shall be the primary uses within the Agriculture land use designation. Residential uses, such as a farmer's home, and habitat mitigation banking uses shall be considered accessory uses. Policy AG -P5.4: Land divisions that separate a farmer's home or an agricultural processing facility from the agricultural land shall be prohibited, unless the lot split meets the minimum lot size requirement of the zoning district. Land Use Element Goal LU -13: Plan for growth and protect agriculture in the Chico area through the Chico Area Greenline. Policy LU -P13.4: Allow residential land uses on the Agricultural Side of the Chico Area Greenline only within those areas designated for Very Low Density Residential and Rural Residential use on the Official Chico Area Greenline Map shown in Figure LU -7. Policy LU -P13.5. Except as provided for in Policy LU -P13.4, require that all land use on the Agricultural Side of the Chico Area Greenline consist solely of agricultural land uses as provided by the "Agriculture" and "Agriculture Services" designations. Policy LU -P13.9: The Board of Supervisors may only approve an amendment to the Greenline after the adoption of written findings of fact, supported by substantial evidence in the public record, showing the following: a. The public benefits of converting the agricultural land to urban land substantially outweigh the public benefits of continued agricultural production. b. There are no other urban or suburban lands reasonably available and suitable for the proposed development. PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN New or Increased Severity of Significant Impacts The proposed project would not result in new agricultural resource impacts that were not addressed in the County's General Plan EIR or Supplemental EIR. No provisions implemented under the CAP would result in agriculture -related impacts, and no cumulative impacts would occur. The following CAP measures could potentially affect agricultural resources: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Measures ENS. Work with utility providers to encourage nonresidential appliance upgrades. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-6 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS EN6. Promote energy -efficiency programs and streamline on-site solar PV installations for agricultural and food processing facilities to improve operations and profitability. EN9. Support distributed generation in new nonresidential development to reduce on- site energy use. EN10. Encourage the voluntary installation of distributed generation, renewable energy systems throughout the county. ENI 1. Adopt a solar PV energy overlay zone. Agriculture Measures AGI. Implement best practices in rice farming. AG2. Reduce the amount of burned agricultural residue. AG3. Optimize the efficiency of water irrigation practices through clean, alternative irrigation energy sources. AG4. Improve maintenance of agricultural vehicles to reduce fue€ use. AG5. implement best practices in fertilizer and pesticide use. AG6. Develop a local carbon sequestration or offset program on agricultural and timber land. As described in Section 4.2, Agriculture, of the General Plan EIR, the General Plan would result in impacts to agricultural resources. While policies and actions in the General Plan reduce potential agricultural resource impacts, implementation of the General Plan results in significant and unavoidable impacts regarding conversion of farmland, conflicts with Williamson Act contract lands, and cumulative impacts to agriculture. CAP measures EN5, EN6, EN9, EN 10, and ENI I are all designed to provide better energy efficiency through the use of new energy-efficient appliances and building techniques or the installation of photovoltaic infrastructure to reduce energy use. These energy-saving measures would benefit agriculture in the county by reducing the amount of energy needed to power agricultural appliances and buildings, thereby reducing long-term farming costs and in turn making agricultural land preservation more cost-effective. CAP measures AG1 through AGS promote more efficient use of farmland and improve air quality. One factor which may lead to the conversion of farmland to urban uses is the expense involved in farming itself. Use of more efficient farming practices would reduce long-term farming costs, thereby making farming more profitable and making agricultural land preservation more cost-effective. Measure AG6 provides a method for farmers to sell verified offset credits for approved practices that reduce air emissions. The credits are obtained by farmers for reducing air pollutant emissions resulting from agricultural practices (i.e., burning, aqueous ammonia). These offset credits assist in lowering the cost of doing business, as they can be sold in state cap -and -trade auctions or through other offset programs. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-7 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS As previously identified, the Butte County General Plan includes policies and actions that address potential impacts to agricultural lands. Adoption and implementation of the CAP would not conflict with any General Plan policies or actions adopted to protect agriculture. No physical improvements are proposed as part of the CAP, and all future development projects that would implement CAP measures and actions would be subject to applicable County regulations and requirements, and subject to further CEQA analysis of project -specific impacts. Therefore, adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new or increased agricultural impacts that were not addressed in the General Plan EIR. While measures included in the CAP seek to influence the application of both pesticides and fertilizers on agricultural lands (AG5), as well as the reduction of burning (AG2), these activities would be implemented as voluntary programs on existing agricultural land and would not reduce the amount of agricultural fand in the county. Implementation of the proposed CAP would neither cause a new impact to agriculture nor increase the severity of impact on agricultural lands beyond the level discussed in the General Plan EIR. Substantial Changes in the Circumstances or New Information Associated with the Unincorporated County There are no changed circumstances or new information meeting the standards for requiring further environmental review under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162. Environmental effects associated with agricultural impacts of the County General Plan were evaluated in the General Plan EIR (see General Plan EIR Section 4.2). No changes in land use patterns are proposed by the CAP. Adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new or more severe impacts beyond what was addressed in the General Plan EIR and would not meet any other criteria under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a) (3). 3.2 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Butte County has a high diversity of biological communities because it extends from the Sacramento Valley floor to the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountains over an elevation range from approximately 50 feet to more than 8,000 feet above sea level. The county includes five different geographic subregions: • The Sacramento Valley in the western portion of the county • The Cascade Range foothills in the north -central portion of fhe county • The northern Sierra Nevada foothills in the south-central portion of the county • The high Cascade Range in the northeastern portion of the county • The northern high Sierra Nevada in the southeastern portion of the county Most of the biological communities in the Sacramento Valley portion of the county have been substantially altered since the mid -1800s, when the area was first hydraulically mined, then dredged for gold, and then developed for agriculture. PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS IN THE BUTTE COUNTY GENERAL PLAN EIR Impact 111I0-1: General Plan 2030 contains extensive goals, policies and actions that mitigate impacts to undeveloped lands that support sensitive biological resources, Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-8 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS including special -status species, sensitive natural communities, federally - protected wetlands, and wildlife and fish movement corridors, to a less than significant level and that additionally minimize the effects of development on biological resources in general. Development resufting under General Plan 2030 would contribute to the on-going loss of undeveloped lands that support such sensitive biological resources in Butte County. The cumulative loss of habitat and sensitive natural communities in Butte County could potentially contribute to a general decline for the region, and might result in the foss or displacement of wildlife that would have to compete for suitable habitats with existing adjacent populations. Summary: This change would occur as an intrinsic part of the land use changes allowed under General Plan 2030 to accommodate the expected continued growth of population and economic activity in Butte County over the next 20 years, and development outside Butte County would be beyond the County's ability to regulate or control. Therefore, there is no feasible mitigation available to reduce this impact to a less -than -significant level, and the impact is considered significant and unavoidable. As described in Section 4.4, Biological Resources, of the General Plan EIR, all impacts to biological resources would be reduced to a less than significant level with implementation of General Plan goals and policies, or no impact would occur, except for cumulative impacts. The General Plan EIR determined that the following General Plan goals and policies reduced biological resource impacts: Conservation and Open Space Element Goal COS -7: Conserve and enhance habitat for protected species and sensitive biological communities. Goal COS -8: Maintain and promote native vegetation. Policy COS -P6.1: The County shall coordinate with applicable federal, State, regional and local agencies on natural resources and habitat planning. Policy COS -P7.1: Conservation easements that protect habitat areas, habitat corridors and sensitive biological resources shall be promoted. Policy COS -P7.2: Clustered development patterns shall be encouraged in order to conserve habitat for protected species and biological resources. Policy COS -P7.3: Creeks shall be maintained in their natural state whenever possible, and creeks and floodways shall be allowed to function as natural flood protection features during storms. Policy COS -P7.4: New development projects shall mitigate their impacts in habitat areas for protected species through on- or off-site habitat restoration, clustering of development, and/or project design and through the provisions of the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) within the HCP/NCCP Planning Area, upon the future adoption of the HCP/NCCP. County of Butte December 2013 3.0-9 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Policy COS -P7.5: No new development projects shall occur in wetlands or within significant 6parion habitats, except within the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) Planning Area where such development is consistent with the conditions of the HCP/NCCP, upon the future adoption of the HCP/NCCP. Policy COS -P7.6: New development projects shall include setbacks and buffers along riparian corridors and adjacent to habitat for protected species, except where permitted in the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) Planning Area and where such development is consistent with the conditions of the HCP/NCCP, upon the future adoption of the HCP/NCCP. Policy COS -P7.7: Construction barrier fencing shall be installed around sensitive resources on or adjacent to construction sites. Fencing shall be installed prior to construction activities and maintained throughout the construction period. Policy COS -P7.8: Where sensitive on-site biological resources have been identified, construction employees operating equipment or engaged in any development - associated activities involving vegetation removal or ground disturbing activities in sensitive resource areas shall be trained by a qualified biologist and/or botanist who will provide information on the on-site biological resources (sensitive natural communities, special status plant and wildlife habitats, nests of special -status birds, etc.), avoidance of invasive plant introduction and spread, and the penalties for not complying with biological mitigation requirements and other State and federal regulations. Policy COS -P7.9: A biologist shall be retained to conduct construction monitoring in and adjacent to all habitats for protected species when construction is taking place near such habitat areas. Policy COS -P8.4: Introduction or spread of invasive plant species during construction of development projects shall be avoided by minimizing surface disturbance; seeding and mulching disturbed areas with certified weed -free native mixes; and using native, noninvasive species in erosion control plantings. Policy COS -P9.2: If special -status plant or animal species are found to be located within a development site, proponents of the project shall engage in consultation with the appropriate federal, State and regional agencies and mitigate project impacts in accordance with State and federal law. Upon adoption of the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP), mitigation requirements of the HCP/NCCP shall be implemented for development projects within the HCP/NCCP area. Examples of mitigation may include: a. Design the proposed project to avoid and minimize impacts. b. Restrict construction to specific seasons based on project specific special- stafus species issues (e.g. minimizing impacts to special -status nesting birds by constructing outside of the nesting season). c. Confine construction disturbance to the minimum area necessary to complete the work. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan E!R 3.0-10 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS d. Mitigate for the loss of special -status species by purchasing credits at an approved conservation bank (if a bank exists for the species in question), funding restoration or habitat improvement projects at existing preserves in Butte County, or purchasing or donating mitigation lands of substantially similar habitat. e. Maintain a minimum 100 -foot buffer on each side of all riparian corridors, creeks and streams for special -status and common wildlife. f. Establish setbacks from the outer edge of special -status species habitat areas. g. Construct barriers to prevent compaction damage by foot or vehicular traffic. Water Resources Element Policy W -P1.4: Where appropriate, new development shall be Low Impact Development (LID) that minimizes impervious area, minimizes runoff and pollution and incorporates best management practices. Policy W -P5.4: Temporary facilities shall be installed as necessary during construction activities in order to adequately treat stormwater runoff from construction sites. Policy W -P6.1: Any alteration of natural channels for flood control shall retain and protect riparian vegetation to the extent possible while still accomplishing the goal of providing flood control. Where removing existing riparian vegetation is unavoidable, the alteration shall allow for reestablishment of vegetation without compromising the flood flow capacity. PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN New or Increased Severity of Significant Impacts The proposed project would not result in additional biological resource impacts that were not addressed in the General Plan EIR. Proposed CAP measures that could potentially affect biological resources are identified below. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Measures EN6. Promote energy efficiency programs and streamline on-site solar PV installations for agricultural and food processing facilities to improve operations and profitability. EN8. Expand distributed generation, renewable energy systems for new residential development. EN9. Support distributed generation in new nonresidential development to reduce on- site energy use. EN10. Encourage the voluntary installation of distributed generation, renewable energy systems throughout the county. EN11. Adopt a solar PV energy overlay zone. County of Butte December 2013 3.0-11 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan Ell! 3,0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Agriculture Measures AG1. implement best practices in rice farming. AG2. Reduce the amount of burned agricultural residue. AG3. Optimize the efficiency of water irrigation practices through clean, alternative irrigation energy sources. AGS. Implement best practices in fertilizer and pesticide use. AG6. Develop a local carbon sequestration or offset program on agricultural and timber land. Implementation of these CAP measures could result in installation of renewable energy facilities such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that have the potential to affect sensitive and special - status species in unique ways. In some instances, the installation of PV panels and other facility structures may interfere with behavioral activities, including migratory movements, and may provide additional perch sites for raptors, thereby increasing predatory levels on other wildlife. However, as stated in the General Plan EIR, implementation of General Plan policies and actions would reduce biological impacts to a less than significant level. Ail proposed CAP measures resulting in future construction would be subject to these policies and actions. Implementation of the CAP would not increase the severity of the significant and unavoidable cumulative impact identified in the General Plan EIR. Additionally, changes in agricultural practices, such as the reduction in allowed burning and the use of best practices for pesticide use, benefit biological resources by reducing potential chemical and air pollutant effects. Carbon sequestration also benefits biological resources by reducing air pollutants. While no physical improvements or growth -inducing provisions are proposed as part of the CAP, all future development projects that implement CAP measures and actions would be subject to applicable County biological resource regulations and requirements, as well as further CEQA analysis of project -specific impacts. For instance, Policy COS -P9.2 requires consultation with the appropriate federal, state, and regional agencies and mitigation of project impacts if special - status plant or animal species are found to be located within a development site. The significance of potential impacts would be addressed through site-specific studies as individual projects are proposed. Therefore, adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new biological resource impacts that were not addressed in the General Plan EIR. In fact, several measures in the CAP benefit biological resources by reducing the amount of air pollutants in the area. Substantial Changes in the Circumstances or New Information Associated with the Unincorporated County There are no changed circumstances or new information meeting the standards for requiring further environmental review under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162. Environmental effects related to the biological resources impacts of the General Plan were evaluated in the General Plan EIR (see General Plan EIR Section 4.4). No changes in land use patterns are proposed by the CAP. Adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new or more severe impacts beyond those addressed in the General Plan EIR and would not meet any other standards under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(3). Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-12 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 3.3 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS As described in the CAP, in 2006, community -wide activities, including County government operations, emitted approximately 911,630 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e) emissions (Butte County 2013). Under a business -as -usual forecast scenario consistent with land uses identified in the Butte County General Plan, these community -wide emissions would increase to 1,015,260 MTCO2e (+11%) by 2020 and to 1,1 1 1,120 MTCO2e (+22%) by 2030. The inventory and forecasts are based on the GHG emissions inventory and forecasts contained in the General Plan EIR, yet include several revisions designed to focus GHG analysis on emissions sectors the County can reasonably influence, and incorporate newer emissions factors and methodologies not in place at the time the General Plan EIR was prepared. Such factors and methodologies do not constitute new information of substantial importance as identified in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(3). PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACT IN THE GENERAL PLAN EIR Impact CC -1: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would result in GHG emissions that would contribute to cumulative GHG emissions and global climate change. The 2020 GHG Forecast for the county indicates that emissions would be greater than 85 percent of current (2006) conditions, creating a significant contribution to GHG emissions and associated climate change impacts. Summary: Policies and actions would provide a comprehensive framework for reducing GHG emissions in the county, but they would not ensure that the County can meet the reduction goal. As part of the General Plan 2030 process, the County considered a wide range of policies and actions to reduce GHG emissions, and all feasible measures are included. However, they do not ensure that the County will meet its reduction goal, so the impact is considered cumulatively significant and unavoidable. This impact was addressed in General Plan EIR Section 4.15, Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The General Plan EIR determined that the following General Plan goals and policies reduced GHG emission impacts: Circulation Element Policy C1R-P2.1: Carpooling shall be encouraged by providing additional carpool pickup and park-and-ride locations near transit centers and at freeway interchanges. Policy C1R-P2.2: Trip reduction among County employees shall be encouraged. Specific measures to encourage trip reduction could include providing subsidies, bicycle facilities, alternative work schedules, rideshoring, telecommuting and work -at- home programs, employee education and preferential parking for carpools/vonpools. Policy CIR-P3.1: The County supports improved connections to other regional transportation services, such as rail and regional/national bus lines, and to connect Butte County communities with each other. Policy C1R-P3.2: A safe, continuous, integrated and accessible pedestrian network shall be provided in urbanized areas, so as to encourage walking as a viable transportation mode and as a form of recreation and exercise. County of Butte December 2013 3.0-13 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Policy CIR-P3.3: Travel modes shall be interconnected to form an integrated, coordinated and balanced multi -modal transportation system. Policy CIR-P3.4: Major new development projects, as determined by the Department of Development Services, shall consider provisions for alternative modes of transportation. Policy CIR-P3.5: New development projects shall consider providing adequate pedestrian, bicycle and multi -use facilities in a way that integrates circulation and recreational use. Policy CIR-P3.6: New neighborhoods shall provide bike and pedestrian connectivity between streets. Policy CIR-P4.1: The County supports public transit as a viable and attractive alternative to the use of single occupant motor vehicles. Policy CiR-P4.2: The County supports improved public transit service to be determined through the public process to identify unmet needs and prioritize feasible solutions. Potential improvements could include serving an expanded geographic area, more frequent buses at key times of the day and improved transit amenities such as bus shelters. Policy CIR-P4.3: The County supports public transportation programs that promote access to shopping, employment, education, healthcare and recreation. Policy CIR-P4.6: New development projects in areas served by existing or planned transit shall provide fixed transit facilities such as bus shelters and pullouts, according to expected demand. Policy CIR-P5.3: The bicycle system shall be integrated with other transportation modes by connecting bicycle routes and transit stops, providing secure bicycle parking facilities and supporting efforts to expand accommodation of bicycles aboard buses. Policy CIR-P5.5: Construction or expansion bicycle facilities whenever feasible. appropriate. Conservation and Open Space Element of major arterials shall incorporate Class 11 Class III Bike routes will be considered where Policy COS -P 1.1: Greenhouse gas emission impacts from proposed development projects shall be evaluated as required by the California Environmental Quality Act. Policy COS -P1.2: New development projects shall mitigate greenhouse gas emissions on- site or as close to the site as possible. Policy COS-PI.7. New commercial and institutional development projects shall provide prioritized parking for electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles and carpools. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan Elft 3.0-14 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Policy COS -P2.2: New development shall comply with Green Building Standards adopted by the California Building Standards Commission at the time of building permit application, including requirements about low- or no -toxicity building materials. Policy COS -P2.3: All new County buildings and major renovations designed for public access and/or primary workspace shall meet, at a minimum, LEED-Silver or equivalent and the County shall use these buildings to demonstrate green building practices to builders, developers, homeowners and others. Minor buildings of an accessory nature that are not used as public spaces and that do not serve as a primary work space are not required to meet LEED-Silver or equivalent, but shall implement practical building design, construction, and maintenance solutions as set forth under the LEED rating system or equivalent. Policy COS -P3.1: The expansion and increased efficiency of hydroelectric power plants in the county shall be encouraged, provided that such plants can be expanded and that significant adverse environmental impacts associated with such plants can be successfully mitigated. Policy COS -P3.2: The development of renewable fuel sources in the county shall be encouraged, provided that such fuel sources can be built or expanded and that significant adverse environmental impacts associated with such development can be successfully mitigated. Policy COS -P3.3: Utility lines shall be constructed along existing utility corridors wherever feasible. Policy COS -P3.4: Solar -oriented and renewable design and grid -neutral development shall be encouraged. Policy COS -P3.5: Developers shall give homebuyers the option of having renewable heat and power incorporated into new homes. Policy COS -P3.6: Alternative energy sources such as solar shall continue to be used for County facilities, which set an example for others to follow. Policy COS -P3.7: Wind power generation facilities, solar power generation facilities, and other alternative energy facilities shall be encouraged in all General Pian land use designations, consistent with zoning provided that significant adverse environmental impacts associated with such development can be successfully mitigated. All new proposed energy projects shall be compatible with the Military Operations Areas (MOAs) shown on Figure LU -5. Policy COS -P4.3: New development shall meet the guidelines of the California Energy Star New Homes Program, or equivalent, and demonstrate detailed energy conservation measures. Land Use Element Policy LU -P2.4: As resources become available, the County shall engage willing and interested unincorporated communities in community planning processes to set a community vision and develop Area Plans. Urban growth boundaries, community County of Butte December 2013 3.0-15 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS boundaries and spheres of influence may be developed as part of such processes. Policy LU -P8.3: Applicants intending to develop sites served by existing public facilities shall be encouraged to develop at the highest allowable density and intensity. Policy LU -P15.1: The County shall prevent scattered development patterns and encourage development in existing urbanized areas, and in particular areas that have access to public services and infrastructure. Policy LU -P15.2: New urban development shall be primarily located in or immediately adjoining already urbanized areas. Policy LU -P15.3: The County shat! encourage efficient urban infill development within municipal limits, municipal spheres of influence, and existing unincorporated communities where development can readily be served by public infrastructure facilities. PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN New or Increased Severity of Significant Impacts The intent of the entirety of the proposed CAP is to reduce greenhouse gases, so individual measures and actions are not listed as they are in other sections of this Addendum. (A full listing of proposed CAP measures and actions is provided in Appendix A.) For example, Measure EN6, which promotes solar PV installations, is anticipated to reduce GHGs by 70,770 MTCO2e in 2020, and Measure W2, which increases the amount of landfill diversion, would reduce GHGs by 6,010 MTCO2e in 2020. All of the CAP measures have been premeditated to meet the statewide GHG emissions reduction goals identified in Assembly Bill (AB) 32 and Senate Bill (SB) 375. This approach allows the County to measure progress toward the target of a 15 percent reduction in GHG emissions by 2020. Implementation of the proposed CAP would neither cause a new GHG impact nor increase the severity of GHG impacts beyond the level discussed in the General Plan EIR. Adoption of the proposed CAP is intended to reduce GHG emissions throughout Butte County and is therefore considered beneficial. Substantial Changes in the Circumstances or New Information Associated with the Unincorporated County There are no changed circumstances or new information meeting the standards for requiring further environmental review under State CEQA Guidelines Section 35162. Environmental effects associated with GHG impacts of the General Plan were evaluated in the General Plan EIR (see General Plan EIR Section 4.15). No changes in land use patterns are proposed by the CAP. Adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new or more severe impacts beyond what was addressed in the General Plan EIR and would not meet any other standards under CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a) (3). 3.4 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Butte County is located in the Sacramento River Hydrological Region, which covers approximately 17 million acres (27,000 square miles) and extends from the Modoc Plateau and Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-16 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Cascade Range at the Oregon border south to the Sacramento -San Joaquin Delta. The region includes the Sacramento River, the longest river system in California, and its tributaries. The Sacramento River Hydrological Region is the main water supply for many of California's urban and agricultural areas. All land uses, whether undeveloped, agricultural, industrial, or urban, have some type of water quality impacts. The most common water quality problems are erosion, sedimentation, and contamination. Approximately 75 percent of the county's residential water supply is extracted from groundwater. The availability of groundwater in an area depends largely upon its geologic, hydrologic, and climatic conditions (Butte County 2010a). There are two large groundwater contamination plumes in Butte County: the Central Plume and the Southwest Plume. Both of these plumes are in the Chico area, originated from former dry cleaners, and involve perch loroethylene (PCE) groundwater contamination. Other groundwater contaminants of concern in Butte County include arsenic, chromium, copper, dioxin, and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. Annual runoff in the Sacramento River Hydrologic Region averages about 22.4 million acre-feet (MAF), which is nearly one-third of the state's total natural runoff. Major water supplies in the region are provided through surface storage reservoirs. Annually, municipal, industrial, and agricultural water usage in the region is about 8 MAF, with about 5.5 MAF coming from surface water sources, and groundwater providing about 2.5 MAF. A substantial portion of the remainder of the total runoff goes to dedicated natural flows, including in -stream fishery flows and flushing ffows in the Sacramento Delta (Butte County 2010a). Butte County has historically been subject to flooding from various rivers and creeks, particularly from the Feather and Sacramento rivers. The County completed an assessment of flood hazards as part of the Butte County Flood Mitigation Plan. The following are the principal flood hazard areas in the county: Butte Creek, Little Chico Creek, Little Chico Creek Diversion, Mud Creek, Ruddy Creek and Ruddy Creek Tributary, Sycamore Creek, Wyman Ravine and Tributaries, and Comanche Creek (Butte County 2010a). Dam inundation due to dam failure could affect large areas of western Butte County. Most of the dams in and around the county would affect a relatively small local inundation area. However, the failure of the Oroville Dam or Thermalito Afterbay Dam, although considered unlikely, would have the potential to inundate a substantial portion of southwestern Butte County. In addition, the western edge of the county is within the inundation areas of the Shasta, Black Butte, and Whiskeytown dams. PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS IN THE GENERAL PLAN EIR Impact HYDRO -1: Although General Plan 2030 policies and actions reduce risks associated with levee failure, they do not eliminate risks to people and property. In addition, recently -adopted policies by FEMA would de -certify a number of levees in Butte County, which indicates that larger areas of Butte County are subject to levee inundation than realized under previous policies. Summary: It is not within Butte County's power to require or complete maintenance and improvements to levees in the county owned and maintained by private individuals and other public agencies. Therefore, the impact is considered significant and unavoidable. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-17 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Impact HYDRO -2: Although General Plan 2030 policies and actions reduce risks associated with dam failure, they do not eliminate risks to people and property. Summary: It is not within Butte County's power to require or complete maintenance and improvements to dams in and around the county owned and maintained by other agencies. Therefore, the impact is considered significant and unavoidable. Impact HYDRO -3: General Plan 2030 would contribute to development in levee and dam inundation areas, resulting in a significant cumulative impact. Summary: It is not within Butte County's power to require or complete maintenance and improvements to levees or dams in the county owned and maintained by private individuals and other public agencies. Therefore, the impact is considered significant and unavoidable. These impacts were addressed in General Plan EIR Section 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality. The General Plan EIR determined that the following General Plan goals and policies reduced these hydrology and water quality impacts, although not to a fess than significant level: Health and Safety Element Policy HS -P2.1: The County supports the efforts of regional, State and federal agencies to improve flood management facilities along the Sacramento River while conserving the riparian habitat of the river. Policy HS -P2.2: The County supports the efforts of private landowners and public agencies to maintain existing flood management facilities. Policy HS -P2.3: The County supports the Flooding Mitigation Action Plan in the Butte County Multi -Jurisdictional All -Hazard Pre -Disaster Mitigation Plan (MHMP). Policy HS -P2.4: Development projects on lands within the 100 -year flood zone, as identified on the most current available maps from FEMA (the most current available map at the time of the publication of General Plan 2030 is shown on Figure HS -1), shall be allowed only if the applicant demonstrates that it will not: a. Create danger to life and property due to increased f€ood heights or velocities caused by excavation, fill, roads and intended use. b. Create difficult emergency vehicle access in times of flood. c. Create a safety hazard due to the height, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of the flood waters expected at the site. d. Create excessive costs in providing governmental services during and after flood conditions, including maintenance and repair of public facilities. e. Interfere with the existing water conveyance capacity of the floodway. f. Substantially increase erosion and/or sedimentation. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-18 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS g. Require significant storage of material or any substantial grading or substantial placement of fill that is not approved by the County through a development agreement, discretionary permit, or other discretionary entitlement; a ministerial permit that would result in the construction of a new residence; or a tentative map or parcel map. h. Conflict with the provisions of the applicable requirements. Policy HS -P3.1: Watersheds shall be managed to minimize flooding by minimizing impermeable surfaces, retaining or detaining stormwater and controlling erosion. Policy HS -P3.2: Applicants for new development projects shat! provide plans detailing existing drainage conditions and specifying how runoff will be detained or retained on-site and/or conveyed to the nearest drainage facility and shall provide that there shall be no increase in the peak flow runoff to said channel or facility. Policy HS -P3.3: All development projects shall include stormwater control measures and site design features that prevent any increase in the peak flow runoff to existing drainage facilities. Policy HS -P3.4: Developers shall pay their fair share for construction of off-site drainage improvements necessitated by their projects. Policy HS -P4.1: The County supports the efforts of regional, State or federal agencies to study levee stability throughout the county, particularly levees that were designed and constructed to provide a minimum 100 -year level of protection. Policy HS -P4.2: The County supports the efforts of levee owners and regional, State, or federal agencies to design and reconstruct levees that do not meet flood protection standards (200 -year for urban or urbanizing areas, 100 -year for all other areas) to bring them into compliance with adopted State and/or federal standards. Policy HS -P5.1: New development proposals in dam inundation areas, as mapped in Figure HS -2 or the most current available mapping, shall consider risks from failure of these dams. Policy HS -P5.2: Risk of failure on new development proposals in the dam inundation areas for the Black Butte, Whiskeytown and Shasta dams shall be coordinated between the Bureau of Reclamation, Butte County Department of Development Services and Butte County Office of Emergency Management. Policy HS -P7.1: Site-specific geotechnical investigations shall be required to assess landslide potential for private development and public facilities projects in areas rated "Moderate to High" and "High" in Figure HS -4 or the most current available mapping. Water Resources Element Goal W-1: Maintain and enhance water quality. County of Butte December 2013 3.0-19 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Goal W -S: Protect water quafity through effective stormwater management. Policy W -P1.2: The County shall cooperate with State and local agencies in efforts to identify and eliminate or minimize all sources of existing and potential point and non -point sources of pollution to ground and surface waters, including leaking fuel tanks, discharges from storm drains, auto dismantling, dump sites, sanitary waste systems, parking lots, roadways and logging and mining operations. Policy W -P1.4: Where appropriate, new development shall be Low Impact Development (LID) that minimizes impervious area, minimizes runoff and pollution and incorporates best management practices. Policy W -P1.7: Agriculture, logging, mining, recreational vehicle use and other open space uses shall follow best management practices to minimize erosion and protect water resources. Policy W-P1.S: The County supports conversion from septic systems to public sewer service, where feasible. Policy W -P2.9: Applicants for new major development projects, as determined by the Department of Development Services, shall demonstrate adequate water supply to meet the needs of the project, including an evaluation of potential cumulative impacts to surrounding groundwater users and the environment. Policy W -P3.1: The County shall continue to ensure the sustainability of groundwater resources, including groundwater levels, groundwater quality and avoidance of land subsidence, through a basin management objective program that relies on management at the local level, utilizes sound scientific data and assures compliance. Policy W -P3.2: Groundwater transfers and substitution programs shall be regulated to protect the sustainability of the County's economy, communities and ecosystem, pursuant to Chapter 33 of the Butte County Code. Policy W -P3.3: The County shall protect groundwater recharge and groundwater quality when considering new development projects. Policy W -P4.6: New development projects shall adopt best management practices for water use efficiency and demonstrate specific water conservation measures. Policy W -P4.7: County facilities shall adopt water conservation measures and when appropriate retrofit existing facilities to improve water conservation. Policy W -P5.2: New development projects shall identify and adequately mitigate their water quality impacts from stormwater runoff. Policy W -P5.3: Pervious pavements shall be allowed and encouraged where their use will not hinder mobility. Policy W -P5.4: Temporary facilities shall be installed as necessary during construction activities in order to adequately treat stormwater runoff from construction sites. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan E1R 3.0-20 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Policy W -P5.5: Stormwater collection systems shall be installed concurrently with construction of new roadways to maximize efficiency and minimize disturbance due to construction activity. Policy W -P6.1: Any alteration of natural channels for flood control shall retain and protect riparian vegetation to the extent possible while still accomplishing the goal of providing flood control. Where removing existing riparian vegetation is unavoidable, the alteration shall allow for reestablishment of vegetation without compromising the flood flow capacity. Policy W -P6.2: Where streambanks are already unstable, as demonstrated by erosion or landslides along banks, tree collapse, or severe in channel sedimentation, proponents of new development projects shall prepare a hydraulic and/or geomorphic assessment of on-site and downstream drainageways that are affected by project area runoff. PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN New or Increased Severity of Significant Impacts The proposed CAP does not increase the potential for development in the county and therefore would not result in additional hydrology and water quality impacts that were not addressed in the County General Plan EIR. There are no provisions in the proposed CAP that would result in hydrology -related impacts. The proposed CAP does not contain any construction and therefore would not trigger additional flood hazards beyond those considered in the General Plan EIR. The following CAP measures relate to potential water quality impacts: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Measures EN6. Promote energy efficiency programs and streamline on-site solar PV installations for agricultural and food processing facilities to improve operations and profitability. EN7. Encourage new nonresidential buildings to meet and exceed CALGreen standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, and passive design. EN8. Expand distributed generation, renewable energy systems for new residential development. EN9. Support distributed generation in new nonresidential development to reduce on- site energy use. EN10. Encourage the voluntary installation of distributed generation, renewable energy systems throughout the county. ENI 1. Adopt a solar PV energy overlay zone. Agriculture Measures AGI. Implement best practices in rice farming. County of Butte December 2013 3.0-21 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan ,EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AG2. Reduce the amount of burned agricultural residue. AG3. Optimize the efficiency of water irrigation practices through clean, alternative irrigation energy sources. AG5. Implement best practices in fertilizer and pesticide use. The construction of various facilities envisioned under the CAP, such as PV panel installations and/or alternative fuel stations, may involve site grading, trenching, backfilling, and construction, which could disturb existing vegetation cover and soil. Short-term adverse impacts to surface water quality may also occur during the construction periods of individual CAP projects due to areas of disturbed soils that would be highly susceptible to water erosion and downstream sedimentation. This impact is of particular concern where projects are located on previously contaminated sites or in close proximity to water bodies. Grading and vegetation removal in proximity to creeks could result in an increase in erosion and sedimentation of creek banks and could affect both water quality and the stability of slopes along the creeks. Without effective erosion and stormwater control, contaminated soils exposed during construction activities may result in surface water contamination. Long-term implementation of the proposed project could also add impervious surfaces that could degrade water quality through discharge of pollutants into surface water and groundwater basins. However, stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPP) and water quality management plans (WQMP) will be required for all ground -disturbing activity under existing federal, state, and local regulations. Implementation of measures and actions under the CAP would be subject to all County development standards regarding water quality, in addition to the County Code and General Plan policies, to reduce water quality impacts. As the proposed CAP does not increase deve{opment potential beyond that analyzed in the General Plan EIR, no new impact to water quality nor increase in the severity of a previously considered impact on water quality would result from the proposed CAP. CAP measures such as ENI 1 could result in renewable energy generating facilities that may require water for cleaning of solar panels. Water supply needs for solar projects are generally minor and are often less than the agricultural use of the land [see Kramer Junction Solar Energy Center Project Initial Study (San Bernardino County 2010a, p. 55), California Valley Solar Ranch Project EIR (SLO County 2011 b, pp. C.15-23 & C.15-24), Topaz Solar Farm EIR (SLO County 201 1c, pp. C.15-21 & C.15-22), and Granite Mountain Wind Energy Project Draft EIS/EIR (BLM/County 2010, p. 3-237)]. In addition, these renewable energy generating facilities do not involve substantial land coverage that would alter the infiltration capability of the land [see Kramer Junction Solar Energy Center Project Initial Study (San Bernardino County 2010a, pp. 40-41)]. In addition, the General Plan contains many policies and actions to ensure sustainable supplies of water resources. Implementation of existing General Plan policies and actions would reduce hydrology impacts to a less than significant level. All proposed CAP measures resulting in future construction would be subject to these policies and actions. Therefore, implementation of the CAP would not increase water supply impacts beyond levels considered in the General Plan EIR. Adverse effects related to the placement of structures within a flood hazard area were addressed in the General Plan EIR. The CAP does not result in any new development potential or construction of facilities that would trigger additional flood hazards beyond those considered in the General Plan EIR. While no physical improvements or growth -inducing provisions are proposed as part of the CAP, future development projects that would implement the CAP would be subject to applicable Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-22 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS County hydrology and water quality regulations and requirements, as well as further CEQA analysis of project -specific impacts. Therefore, the CAP would neither cause a new flooding impact nor increase the severity of flooding beyond the level considered in the General Plan EIR. Substantial Changes in the Circumstances or New Information Associated with the Unincorporated County There are no changed circumstances or new information meeting the standards for requiring further environmental review under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162. Environmental effects associated with hydrology and water quality impacts of the General Plan were evaluated in the General Plan EIR (see General Plan EIR Section 4.8). No changes in land use patterns are proposed by the CAP. Adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new or more severe impacts beyond what was addressed in the General Plan EIR and would not meet any other standards under State CEQA Guidelines Section 151 62(a) (3). 3.5 NOISE Noise -sensitive land uses are generally defined as locations where people reside or where the presence of unwanted sound could adversely affect the primary intended use of the land. Places where people live, sleep, recreate, worship, and study are generally considered to be sensitive to noise because intrusive noise can be disruptive to these activities. Major mobile noise sources in the county include roadway traffic, railroads, and airports. Roadway traffic is the most substantial source because the noise is constant as opposed to the periodic noise from railroads and airports. Industrial processes and facilities can be sources of substantial noise. Mechanical equipment, heavy equipment, and trucks operated at these facilities are the primary sources of noise. Major stationary noise sources in the county include the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility, local mining operations, general service commercial and light industrial uses, and recreational sources. Train passages and construction activity can generate high levels of groundborne vibration. Blasting and high -impact construction equipment such as pile drivers have the potential to result in perceptible vibration at noise -sensitive land uses and in extreme cases result in damage to structures. Vibration from train passages can sometimes be perceptible within about 100 feet of a railroad track. PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS IN THE GENERAL PLAN EIR Impact NOISE -1: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would cause a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels because more people would be living, driving and flying in Butte County. County of Butte December 2013 Summary: General Plan 2030 Health and Safety Element policies would reduce many noise exposure impacts to a less -than -significant level, but would not mitigate the significant impacts from traffic noise increases and aircraft noise increases on ambient noise levels in all cases. Since this traffic and aircraft operation is an unavoidable outcome of the type of residential and commercial growth foreseen in Butte County, there is no feasible mitigation measure to reduce this impact to a less -than -significant level. Therefore, this impact is significant and unavoidable. 3.0-23 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL. ANALYSIS Impact NOISE -2: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would contribute to conditions that exceed County noise standards and that cause a substantial permanent increase in arnUent noise levels, causing a significant cumulative noise impact. Summary: General Plan 2030 would contribute to cumulative traffic noise conditions that exceed County noise standards. Since this traffic is an unavoidable outcome of the type of residential and commercial growth foreseen in Butte County and the surrounding counties, this impact is significant and unavoidable. These impacts were addressed in General Plan EIR Section 4.10, Noise. The General Plan EIR determined that the following General Plan goals and policies reduced noise impacts; however, ambient noise levels and cumulative noise impacts could not be reduced to less than significant levels. Health and Safety Element Goal HS -1: Maintain an acceptable noise environment in all areas of the county. Policy HS -P1.1: New development projects proposed in areas that exceed the land use compatibility standards in Tables HS -2 and HS -3 shall require mitigation of noise impacts. Policy HS -P1.2: Noise from transportation sources shall not exceed land use compatibility standards in Table HS -2. Policy HS -P1.3: New noise -sensitive land uses shall not be located within the 55 Ldn contour of airports, roadways, and other noise generating uses, with the exception of the Chico Municipal Airport. Policy HS -P1.4: New noise -sensitive land uses shall not be located within the 60 Ldn contour of the Chico Municipal Airport. Policy HS -P1.5: Noise from new recreational activities and events shall not exceed 60 dB at the nearest noise sensitive land use. Policy HS -P1.6: Applicants proposing a new noise -producing development project near existing or planned noise -sensitive uses shall provide a noise analysis prepared by an acoustical specialist with recommendations for design mitigation. Policy HS -P1.7: Applicants for discretionary permits shall be required to limit noise - generating construction activities located within 1,000 feet of residential uses to daytime hours between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and non -holidays. Policy HS -P1.8: Noise From generators shall be regulated near existing and future residential uses. Policy HS-PI.9: The following standard construction noise control measures shall be required at construction sites in order to minimize construction noise impacts: Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan FIR 3.0-24 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS a. Equip all internal combustion engine driven equipment with intake and exhaust mufflers that are in good condition and appropriate for the equipment. b. Locate stationary noise -generating equipment as far as possible from sensitive receptors when sensitive receptors adjoin or are near a construction project area. c. Utilize quiet air compressors and other stationary noise generating equipment where appropriate technology exists and is feasible. Policy HS -P1.10: To reduce impacts from ground borne vibration associated with rail operations, residences or other vibration -sensitive buildings shall be sited at least 100 feet from the centerline of the nearest railroad track whenever feasible. Deve€opment of vibration -sensitive buildings, such as those containing precision medical and industrial equipment or television, radio and recording studios, within 100 feet from the centerline of the nearest railroad track shall require a study demonstrating that groundborne vibration issues associated with rail operations have been adequately addressed through building siting or construction techniques. PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN New or Increased Severity of Significant Impacts The proposed CAP does not result in any new development potential or construction of facilities that affect project or cumulative ambient noise levels beyond levels considered in the General Plan EIR. Implementation of measures and actions under the CAP would be subject to all County development standards regarding noise as well as further CEQA analysis of project -specific impacts. The following CAP measures relate to potential noise impacts: Transportation Measures T1. Create a transportation demand management program for businesses throughout Butte County composed of requirements for employers with more than 50 employees (large employers) and voluntary actions for smalfer employers. Government Operations Measures G07. Reduce emissions from employee commutes by encouraging alternative travel options and supporting the use of clean, alternative fuels. The CAP does not include any measures or actions that would increase ambient noise levels in the county. Many of the future cumulative noise impacts in the county are related to traffic noise. Measures Tl and G07 would actually decrease projected ambient noise by promoting the use of alterative transportation practices, which in turn would decrease the amount of automobile traffic on county roadways and the resulting ambient noise levels. While these measures would not reduce the General Plan EIR conclusion of significant and unavoidable cumulative impacts, the CAP would not increase this impact beyond the levels determined in County of Butte December 2013 3.0-25 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan FIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS the General Plan EIR. Therefore, the CAP would not result in new impacts that were not addressed in the General Plan EIR. Substantial Changes in the Circumstances or New Information Associated with the Unincorporated County There are no changed circumstances or new information meeting the standards for requiring further environmental review under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162. Environmental effects associated with noise impacts of the General Plan were evaluated in the General Plan EIR (see General Plan EIR Section 4.10). No changes in land use patterns are proposed by the CAP. Measures implemenfed under the CAP would not result in increased noise levels in the county. Adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new or more severe impacts beyond what was addressed in the General Plan EIR and would not meet any other standards under CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(3). 3.6 TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION The Butte County roadway system contains over 2,100 miles of public roadways, including county roads, streets in incorporated areas, and state highways, that carry an estimated 1.7 billion miles of travel demand annually, according to the 2000 Caltrans California Motor Vehicle Travel Forecast (Butte County 2010a). The geography of Butte County constrains overland transportation and circulation. In the flat valley of the southwestern portion of the county, the circulation system is affected most significantly by the Feather River. The river bisects the lower portion of the county running south. In the foothills and mountains of the eastern part of the county, travel is limited mainly to east - west roadways that run through valleys and canyons and along ridges. Past development and human -made barriers also constrain automobile traffic. For instance, the circulation system is affected by the railroad tracks running north -south parallel to the state highways. State highways in Butte County are under Caltrans jurisdiction and are constructed to conventional highway standards, with the exception of several segments of State Route (SR) 99 in the Chico area and SR 70 in the Oroville area that are designated as freeways. SR 70, SR 99, and SR 149 are the major highways serving the county, and SR 32, SR 162, and SR 191 are also key highway routes serving Butte County. Butte Regional Transit (B -Line) provides fixed -route bus and paratransit services to Biggs, Chico, Gridley, Oroville, Paradise, and the unincorporated county. The B -Line intercity buses connect Biggs, Chico, Gridley, Oroville, and Paradise, as well as the two existing Tribal Rancherias and casinos. For seniors and diisaUed individuals, a number of service providers and social service agencies provide door-to-door services. PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS IN THE GENERAL PLAN EIR Impact TRAF-1: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on State Route 32 between Muir Avenue and W. 1 st Street. Mitigation Measure TRAF-1: Widen State Route 32 to four lanes through this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-1 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-26 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a state facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-2: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on State Route 99 between the Sutter County Line and East Biggs Highway. Mitigation Measure TRAF-2: Widen and convert State Route 99 to a four -lane conventional highway through this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-2 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a state facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-3: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on State Route 99 between State Route 149 and the Skyway. Mitigation Measure TRAF-3: Convert State Route 99 to a grade separated, fimited access freeway facility though this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-3 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a state facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-4: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on State Route 99 between East 20th Street and Cohasset Road. Mitigation Measure TRAF-4: Widen State Route 99 to six lanes through this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-4 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a state facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-5: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on State Route 99 between Eaton Road and Keefer Road. Mitigation Measure TRAF-5: Widen State Route 99 to four lanes through this section. County of liuffe Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-27 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-5 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a state facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-6: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS E operations on Stafe Route 162 between Larkin Road and Sfate Route 70. Mitigation Measure TRAF-6: Widen State Route 162 to four lanes through this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-6 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a state facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-7: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on State Route 162 between State Route 70 and Lower Wyandotte Road. Mitigation Measure TRAF-7: Widen State Route 162 to six lanes through this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-7 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is in the City of Oroville and is a state facility, and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-8: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS E operations on State Route 162 between Foothill Boulevard and Canyon Drive. Mitigation Measure TRAF-8: Widen State Route 162 to four lanes though this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-8 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a state facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-9: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on Cohasset Road between State Route 99 and East Avenue, Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-28 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Mitigation Measure TRAF-9: Construct a raised median on this roadway section to enhance capacity. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-9 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement wood mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a City of Chico facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-10: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS D operations on Midway between the planned Southgate Extension and Durham -Dayton Road. Mitigation Measure TRAF-10: Widen Midway to four lanes though this section. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-10 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, given the environmental constraints that exist in this location and the County's desire to maintain this roadway as a two-lane rural facility, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-11: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on the Skyway between State Route 99 and Notre Dame Boulevard. Mitigation Measure TRAF-11: Construct a raised median on this roadway section to enhance capacity. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-1 1 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a City of Chico facility and the County cannot guarantee its implementation, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-12: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS D/E operations on the Skyway between Neal Road and Bil€e Road. Mitigation Measure TRAF-12: Convert this section of the Skyway to a four -Ione limited access expressway. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-12 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan FIR 3.0-29 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a Town of Paradise facility and is not compatible with the Town's plans for this facility, the County cannot guarantee its implementation and the impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-13: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would lead to unacceptable LOS D/E operations on the Skyway between Bille Road and Pentz Road. Mitigation Measure TRAF-13: Widen the section of the Skyway between Bille Road and Wagstaff Road to a four -lane, divided arterial, and widen the section of the Skyway from Wagstaff Road to Pentz Road to a four -lane, undivided arterial. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-13 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, since this is a Town of Paradise facility, the County cannot guarantee its implementation and the impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-14: Implementation of General Plan 2030 would cause increased traffic that would exacerbate existing deficiencies along regional roadways, contributing to a cumulatively significant transportation impact. Because mitigation for these deficiencies is not identified and would be outside the control of Butte County, the impact is considered significant and unavoidable. PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS IN THE GENERAL PLAN SUPPLEMENTAL EIR Impact TRAF-15: Implementation of the Modified Project would lead to unacceptable LOS F operations on State Route 99 between East Biggs Highway and the southern intersection of State Route 99 and State Route 162. Mitigation Measure TRAF-15: Incorporate passing lanes into the section of State Route 99 between East Biggs Highway and the southern intersection of State Route 99 and State Route 162 as described in the State Route 99 Transportation Concept Report published by Caltrans in August 2010. Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-15 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, because this is a state facility, the County cannot guarantee its implementation, and the impact remains significant and unavoidable. Impact TRAF-16: Implementation of the Modified Project would lead to unacceptable LOS D operations on Honey Run Road between Skyway and Centerville Road. Mitigation Measure TRAF-16: Upgrade the section of Honey Run Road between Skyway and Centerville Road to the County's arterial roadway standards. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 3.0-30 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Secondary Effects: Mitigation Measure TRAF-16 could cause significant secondary environmental impacts. These secondary environmental impacts would be reviewed under CEQA as further planning occurs and before individual projects are implemented. Significance After Mitigation: Construction of this improvement would mitigate the impact on this segment. However, given the environmental constraints that exist at this location, including steep canyons, erosion hazards, and riparian resources, this impact remains significant and unavoidable. These impacts were addressed in General Plan EIR Section 4.13, Transportation and Circulation. The General Plan EIR determined that the following General Plan goals and policies would reduce these transportation and circulation impacts, however, the increase of future traffic would result in the significant and unavoidable impacts to the existing roadway system identified above. Circulation Element Policy CIR-P2.1: Carpooling shall be encouraged by providing additional carpoo€ pickup and park-and-ride locations near transit centers and at freeway interchanges. Policy CIR-P2.2: Trip reduction among County employees shall be encouraged. Specific measures to encourage trip reduction could include providing subsidies, bicycle facilities, alternative work schedules, rideshoring, telecommuting and work -at- home programs, employee education and preferentlal parking for carpools/vanpools. Policy CIR-P2.4: Employers shall be encouraged to provide transit subsidies, bicycle facilities, alternative work schedules, ridesharing, telecommuting and work -at- home programs, employee education and preferential parking for carpools/vanpools. Policy CIR-P2.5: Transportation corridors for renewable energy transmission and for new transit lines shall be preserved. Policy CIR-P2.6: The County shall incorporate "Complete Streets" policies that are designed and built to be safe for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users. Policy CIR-P2.7. Where feasible and appropriate, and where non -motorized travel is reasonably expected, the width of existing streets shall be reduced through bulbouts, medians, pedestrian islands and similar methods, and planting shade trees in landscaped areas within and adjacent to streets, while not jeopardizing emergency response and future capacity requirements as determined by the Butte County Fire Department and Public Works Department. Policy CIR-P3.1: The County supports improved connections to other regional transportation services, such as rail and regional/national bus lines, and to connect Butte County communities with each other. Policy CIR-P3.2: A safe, continuous, integrated and accessible pedestrian network shall be provided in urbanized areas, so as to encourage wafking as a viable transportation mode and as a form of recreation and exercise. county of Butte December 2013 3.0-31 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Policy CIR-P3.3: Travel modes shall be interconnected to form an integrated, coordinated and balanced multi -modal transportation system. Policy CIR-P3.4: Major new development projects, as determined by the Department of Development Services, shall consider provisions for alternative modes of transportation. Policy CIR-P3.5: New development projects shall consider providing adequate pedestrian, bicycle and multi -use facilities in a way that integrates circulation and recreational use. Policy CIR-P3.6: New neighborhoods shall provide bike and pedestrian connectivity between streets. Policy CIR-P4.1. The County supports public transit as a viable and attractive alternative to the use of single occupant motor vehicles. Policy CIR-P4.2: The County supports improved public transit service to be determined through the public process to identify unmet needs and prioritize feasible solutions. Potential improvements could include serving an expanded geographic area, more frequent buses at key times of the day and improved transit amenities such as bus shelters. Policy CIR-P4.3: The County supports public transportation programs that promote access to shopping, employment, education, healthcare and recreation. Policy CIR-P4.4: The County encourages the Butte County Association of Governments to provide shuttles from local transit stations to special event centers. Policy CIR-P4.5: The County continues to support local Amtrak passenger services. Policy CIR-P4.6: New development projects in areas served by existing or planned transit shall provide fixed transit facilities such as bus shelters and pullouts, according to expected demand. Policy CIR-P5.1: Bicycle facilities shall be developed in accordance with the County's adopted Bicycle Master Plan. Policy CIR-P5.2: New bicycle routes and paths shall create a safe bicycle environment. Policy CIR-P5.3: The bicycle system shall be integrated with other transportation modes by connecting bicycle routes and transit stops, providing secure bicycle parking facilities and supporting efforts to expand accommodation of bicycles aboard buses. Policy CIR-P5.4: Transportation service providers shall be encouraged to incorporate bicycle storage facilities into bus stops and rail stations. Policy CIR-P5.5: Construction or expansion of major arterials shall incorporate Class II bicycle facilities whenever feasible. Class III Bike routes will be considered where appropriate. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-32 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Policy CIR-P5.6: Residential development projects shall incorporate internal circulation networks that encourage bicycle use and that connect to the external bicycle circulation system. Policy CIR-P5.7: Owners of apartment complexes and major commercial, office, industrial and educational sites shall provide safe, plentiful and centrally located bicycle parking facilities. Policy CIR-P5.8: All County facilities and park-and-ride lots shall provide appropriate bicycle amenities, including bicycle racks and storage facilities. Policy CIR-P6.3: Project approval shall be conditioned on the provision of roadway improvements to meet the level of service standards in policies CIR-P6.1 and CIR- P6.2. Exceptions to satisfying the level of service standards and/or constructing transportation facilities to the County's design standards may be allowed on a case-by-case basis where reducing level of service or not constructing a transportation facility to County standards would result in a clear public benefit. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to the following: a. Conserving agricultural or open space land. b. Enhancing the agricultural economy. c. Protecting scenic roadways or highways. d. Preserving downtown community environments. Policy CIR-P6.5: Street improvements within the sphere of influence of an incorporated municipality shall conform to the street standards of that municipality. Policy CIR-P6.6: Major new development projects and subdivisions, as determined by the Department of Development Services, shall prepare and implement traffic studies to assess and mitigate adverse impacts to local and regional transportation facilities. Policy CIR-P9.1: All new road systems, both public and private, shall provide for safe evacuation of residents and adequate access to fire and other emergency services by providing at least two means of emergency access to an interconnected collector system. New road systems will include reduction and maintenance of roadside vegetation. Policy CIR-P11.1: Private airstrips and landing fields shall be located outside of flight paths to and from existing airports so that they do not present a hazard or annoyance to neighboring areas. Health and Safety Element Policy HS -P11.3: The County supports the Wildfire Mitigation Action Plan, the Butte County Multi -Jurisdictional All -Hazard Pre -Disaster Mitigation Plan (MHMP), and the Butte Unit Community Wildfire Protection Plan prepared by California Department of Forestry and l=ire Protection (CAL FIRE) and will cooperate with the Butte County County of Butte December 2013 3.0-33 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Fire Department and the Butte County Fire Safe Council in implementing these plans. Policy HS -P11.4: New development projects shall meet current fire safe ordinance standards for adequate emergency water flow, emergency vehicle access, signage, evacuation routes, fuel management, defensible space, fire safe building construction and wildfire preparedness. Policy HS -1`13.1: New development in High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, as shown in Figure HS -7, shall identify access and egress routes and make improvements or contribute to a fund to develop, upgrade and maintain these routes. Policy HS -P15.3: Emergency access routes shall be kept free of traffic impediments. Policy HS -P15.4: Streets and developed properties shall be clearly marked to enable easy identification. PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN New or Increased Severity of Significant Impacts The CAP would not result in new significant impacts or increase the severity of significant transportation impacts beyond what was addressed in the General Plan EIR. There would be no degradation of levels of service at roadway segments and intersections analyzed under the General Plan EIR, and no new cumulative traffic impacts would occur. The following CAP measures could potentially relate to transportation impacts: Transportation Measures 71. Create a transportation demand management program for businesses throughout Butte County composed of requirements for employers with more than 50 employees (large employers) and voluntary actions for smaller employers. Government Operations Measures G07. Reduce emissions from employee commutes by encouraging alternative travel options and supporting the use of clean, alternative fuels. CAP Measures Tl and G07 encourage the use of alternative modes of transportation, which would reduce reliance on the single -occupant automobile for commuter travel, thereby reducing the total vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled during AM and PM peak times. These measures would not add additional traffic but rather would reduce traffic during these times. Implementation of the CAP overall is anticipated to improve traffic congestion throughout the county by expanding transportation mode choices within and between communities and replacing single -driver trips with low- or zero -emission modes like walking, biking, transit, and carpooling. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-34 County of Butte December 2013 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS While no physical improvements are proposed as part of the CAP, all future development projects that would implement the CAP would be subject to applicable County transportation regulations and requirements, as well as further CEQA analysis of project -specific impacts. Implementation of the proposed CAP would neither cause a new impact to transportation nor increase the severity of any impact on transportation beyond the level discussed in the General Plan EIR. Substantial Changes in the Circumstances or New Information Associated with the Unincorporated County There are no changed circumstances or new information meeting the standards for requiring further environmental review under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162. Environmental effects associated with transportation impacts of the General Plan were evaluated in the General Plan EIR (see General Plan EIR Section 4.13). No changes in land use patterns are proposed by the CAP. Adoption and implementation of the CAP would not result in new or more severe impacts beyond what was addressed in the General Plan EIR and would not meet any other standards under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(a)(3). The end result of the CAP measures listed above would be to reduce the generation of greenhouse gases by decreasing the amount of VMT in the county. Therefore, implementation of the goal and measures would result in a reduction in GHG emissions, which would be beneficial. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR 3.0-35 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan E1R This page intentionally left blank. 3.0-36 County of Butte December 2013 4.0 REFERENCES 4.0 REFERENCES 4.0 REFERENCES BCAG (Butte County Association of Governments). 2011. BCAG Regional Growth Projections 2010-2035. Accessed September 17, 2013. http://www.bcag.org/documents/demographics/pop_emp- projections/Growth-Forecasts_2010-2035.pdf. CARB (California Air Resources Board). 2012a. Ambient Air Quality Standards. http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/aags/aags2.pdf. County of Butte. 2010a. Butte County 2030 General Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report. . 2010b. Butte County 2030 General Plan. .2010c. Butte County General Plan Final EIR. .2012a. Butte County General Plan Draft Supplemental EIR. .2012b. Butte County General Plan Final Supplemental EIR, 2013. Butte County Climate Action Plan. DOF (California Department of Finance). 2013, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, 2011-2013 with 2010 Census Benchmark. Accessed September 17. http://www.dof.co.gov/research/demographic/reports/estimates/e- 5/201 1-20/view.php. County of Butte December 2013 4.0-1 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR APPENDICES APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 1. ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY 1.1 CONNECT HOMEOWNERS TO FINANCING AND RESOURCES FOR RETROFITS. Most residential buiEdings in the county depend on electricity and natural gas for heating and cooling. Older buildings often require more energy to heat and cool houses due to inefficient building materials such as single -pane windows, insufficient insulation, and old heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. Although residential retrofits often pay for themselves with reduced energy bills, few residents have the extra money necessary to pay upfront costs. This measure identifies actions to assist Butte County homeowners to secure financing, rebates, and other resources to retrofit their homes. Supporting Actions • Participate in a program to provide additional low-cost financing for energy retrofits in Butte County to supplement available rebates from programs such as Energy Upgrade California and the California Home Energy Retrofit Opportunity (HERO) program administered by the Western Riverside Council of Governments. • Host booths at home fairs. • Encourage home remodels or additions to achieve California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) compliance by promoting available financing programs such as Energy Upgrade California or other local rebate programs. • Provide pamphlets on financing programs with permits. • Partner with local contractors to promote retrofits in the low-income housing stock through weatherization programs. 1.2 PROMOTE RESIDENTIAL APPLIANCE UPGRADES. Many residential buildings in Butte County also depend on electricity and natural gas to operate appliances such as cooking ranges, refrigerators, and televisions. More efficient appliances require less fuel for successful operation, saving residents money and lowering emissions across the county. This measure promotes the purchase of ENERGY STAR and other energy-efficient appliances. Supporting Actions • Track the number of energy-efficient or smart -grid -integrated appliances installed in new development and major remodels through the County's permit tracking system. • Promote ENERGY STAR or energy-efficient appliances with County outreach materials including existing home improvement programs, rebate programs, and program monitoring. 1.3 CONNECT LOW-INCOME HOMEOWNERS TO FINANCING AND RESOURCES FOR RETROFITS. Low-income households are especially sensitive to energy costs because they generally occupy older, more energy -inefficient housing units and spend a larger proportion of their income on energy. By assisting with low-income household retrofits, the County can simultaneously reduce County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan E1R A-1 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS emissions and increase low-income families' capacity to maintain safe and comfortable households despite volatile energy prices and increasing temperatures. Supporting Actions • Work with nonprofits to identify highest opportunities for a successful low-income program. • Encourage workforce training programs to provide free weatherization services to qualified households. • Partner with workforce training programs such as Living Elements and Valley Contractors Exchange. • Leverage federal funding for home improvements, such as Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), to improve the energy efficiency and livability of Butte County's lowest - income households. 1.4 SUPPORT RETROFITS IN EXISTING NONRESIDENTIAL USES WITH AN EMPHASIS ON MANUFACTURING FACILITIES. In Butte County, nonresidential buildings use electricity and natural gas for heating, cooling, lighting, and other functions. Lacking extensive business license records, it is critical that the County initiate, maintain, and enhance collaborative partnerships with local businesses to achieve energy efficiency and economic development objectives. This measure seeks to increase long-term profitability and viability of businesses, with an emphasis on the manufacturing sector, by facilitating energy efficiency retrofit financing and rebate opportunities. Supporting Actions • Develop a voluntary educational program and business inventory to identify energy- and cost-saving opportunities. • Promote Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing in partnership with the local chambers of commerce, utilities, and local businesses. • Partner with utilities and local business leaders to connect local businesses with advanced rebates and assistance for energy retrofits. For example, the County may collaborate with PG&E to map local high energy users and guide County outreach in collaboration with PG&E. • Conduct an annual awards event to highlight local businesses completing retrofits and saving energy. 1.5 WORK WITH UTILITY PROVIDERS TO ENCOURAGE NONRESIDENTIAL APPLIANCE UPGRADES. Businesses use electricity and natural gas to power appliances ranging from chillers and ovens in restaurants and computers in offices to machinery in factories. Efficient appliances require less fuel for successful operation, saving businesses money and lowering emissions across the county. Measure EN5 promotes the purchase of ENERGY STAR and other energy-efficient appliances. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 A-2 APPENDIX A -PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS Supporting Actions Track the number of energy-efficient or smart -grid -integrated appliances installed in new development and major nonresidential remodels through the County's permit tracking system. • Work with third -party providers and utility companies to provide low- to no -cost rebates and incentives for nonresidential appliances and equipment. 1.6 PROMOTE ENERGY -EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS AND STREAMLINE ON-SITE SOLAR PV INSTALLATIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD PROCESSING FACILITIES TO IMPROVE OPERATIONS AND PROFITABILITY. Activities related to the agricultural sector such as rice drying and agricultural processing are among the highest energy consumers in the county. PG&E reports estimate that in 2006, agriculture and food processing facilities accounted for approximately 48% of nonresidential kWh and 78% of nonresidential therms in Butte County. High energy use can be one of the top line items in a company's operating expenses. Since agriculture and related sectors are critical components of the local economy, this measure directs the County to work with businesses to understand their energy needs and potential for savings, and then to collaboratively identify strategies to maximize efficiency. This measure also provides the opportunity for businesses and County staff to work with PG&E to develop locally tailored, cost-effective energy reduction actions that meet the needs of Butte County industries, including rice dryers and businesses with other energy -intense agricultural processing facilities. Additionally, the County includes large areas of non -prime land and facilities with large roof surfaces ideally suited for siting of solar PV panels. As part of this measure, the County will simplify the process for agricultural operations to provide their own electricity using solar PV by streamlining projects limited to 5 acres of PV per parcel or equivalent roof space. Supporting Actions • Partner with PG&E to develop a localized, energy -efficiency outreach effort for agricultural processing industries reflecting characteristics of local operations and available financing, • Provide resources on rebates and financing for appliances and equipment upgrades through stakeholder outreach, including collaboration with utility companies such as PG&E. • Connect third -party energy -efficiency providers to provide free to low-cost equipment to eligible businesses and large energy users. • Adopt a solar energy overlay zone to simplify the installation of solar PV in non -prime farmland that would serve on-site agricultural and manufacturing uses. The overlay will expedite the development of solar PV in high opportunity areas while protecting prime farmland and other environmental resources. Solar PV would be limited to 5 acres or less per parcel, consistent with the Butte County Zoning Code. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR A-3 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 1.7 ENCOURAGE NEW NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS TO MEET AND EXCEED CALGREEN STANDARDS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY, WATER CONSERVATION, AND PASSIVE DESIGN. Although there is an upfront cost to design and build more energy- and water -efficient buildings, such efforts result in lower operating costs for the life of the structure. This measure encourages efficient new buildings through outreach and opportunities to mitigate environmental impacts. Supporting Actions • Update development checklists and provide guidelines to support optimal energy efficiency, • Educate builders through working group meetings and CALGreen workshops. • Partner with local building supply stores to promote cost-effective moterials that would help achieve CALGreen Tier 1. • Seek grants or external funding to reduce building permit costs for buildings that meet CALGreen Tier 1. • Identify CALGreen Tier 1 or 2 standards as preferred mitigations for the environmental impacts of new nonresidential projects. • Maintain voluntary CALGreen Tier 1 standards as an option for new buildings. 1.8 EXPAND DISTRIBUTED GENERATION, RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT. This measure is a blend of requirements and regulatory streamlining efforts intended to increase renewable energy generation in new residential development sites. The measure focuses on the renewable energy sifsng potential of large, master -planned communities. County staff works with developers as master -planned communities proceed through plan review, providing excellent opportunities to discuss appropriate renewable energy siting. This measure also provides actions to expand the County's efforts to encourage renewable energy system installations within single- family and multi -family development projects. Supporting Actions • Require all new discretionary development projects consisting of more than 500 residential units to achieve zero net energy using solar PV and high -efficiency construction. • Offer expedited processing for developers providing on-site solar, such as participants in the state's Homebuyer Solar Program. • Require multi -family developments to offer solar options or provide off-site power purchase agreements, following the Homebuyer Solar Program. • Require solar prewiring for PV. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 A-4 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 1.9 SUPPORT DISTRIBUTED GENERATION IN NEW NONRESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT TO REDUCE ON- SITE ENERGY USE. This measure provides actions to incentivize renewable energy installations on new nonresidential projects as they progress through the permitting process. Incentives, streamlined review, expedited processing, and pre -wiring requirements could increase the amount of renewable energy sited in new nonresidential buildings in the county. New nonresidential developments are also required to maximize roof space in anticipation of future solar PV. These actions will remove barriers to installing solar PV on nonresidential buildings that are most likely to realize benefits from on-site energy. Financing for solar PV can be accomplished through initial construction financing, and could reduce utility bills for energy -intense industries. Supporting Actions • Adopt incentives to encourage distributed generation systems, targeting large projects most likely to benefit from on-site energy, including large nonresidential development greater than 10,000 square feet. • Streamline administrative review process to determine exemptions. • Offer expedited processing for developers providing on-site solar. • Require new nonresidential development to prewire for solar PV systems and to maximize roof space to accommodate future rooftop solar installations. 1.10 ENCOURAGE THE VOLUNTARY INSTALLATION OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION, RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY. This measure supports solar PV in existing development through additional actions to help residents and businesses install renewable energy installations on existing buildings. The County will achieve this by streamlining the permit review process and tying permit costs to the size of the proposed installation. Supporting Actions • Revise the permit fee to reflect size of PV installation. • Stream#ine the review and approval of solar PV panels through online permitting and easily accessible educational materials. 1.11 ADOPT A SOLAR PV ENERGY OVERLAY ZONE. This measure directs the County to conduct a study and consider amendments to the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance to facilitate the GHG reduction benefits from solar PV installation. Supporting Actions • Amend the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance with a solar PV energy overlay zone to designate and protect areas for the prioritization of solar energy resources. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR A-5 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS • Adopt standards to encourage the development of solar PV energy while protecting environmental resources, streamlining the review of solar energy projects, and expediting the development of solar energy in close proximity to transmission facilities. • Complete the technical and environmental studies necessary to support preparation of the solar PV energy overlay zone. 2. ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT 2.1 EXPAND THE USE OF ALTERNATIVE AND CLEAN -FUEL VEHICLES. Transportation accounted for almost 30% of 2006 community baseline emissions. Alternative fueled vehicles produce fewer GHG emissions, but tend to have substantial barriers to entry for most households. This measure provides actions to lower those barriers to entry by facilitating and expanding the use of alternative and clean -fuel vehicles. Supporting Actions Increase County participation and Energy Watch funding to localize existing programs such as commercial and residential direct install. Support use of neighborhood electric vehicles, such as low -speed golf courts or other personal neighborhood electrical vehicles. • Require new nonresidential buildings to provide electric vehicle prewiring or conduit. • Update zoning provisions to encourage alternative fuel stations. 2.2 COORDINATE WITH THE BUTTE COUNTY AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT TO ADOPT CONSTRUCTION MITIGATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. Heavy construction equipment and machinery tend to be large GHG emitters as well as emitters of criteria air pollutants, which have health impacts on surrounding residents. Certain operating procedures can reduce engine running time without affecting productivity. This measure provides management practice requirements to help construction equipment operators reduce fuel use and cut emissions. Supporting Actions • Applicants shall choose one of the following: • Reduce construction equipment idling to three minutes. • As practical, use clean or alternative fuel equipment. 2.3 IMPLEMENT PROGRAMS AND UPDATE STANDARDS FOR NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT TO SUPPORT FUEL EFFICIENCY IN AUTOS AND LAWN AND GARDEN EQUIPMENT. Although the fuel used by each resident and property owner to maintain their lawn and garden seems small, the cumulative impact across the county is large (over 17,000 MTCO2e per year in 2006). This measure provides actions to facilitate the purchase of more efficient fossil fuel or Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 W APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS electric lawn and garden equipment, as well as to promote electric vehicle (EV) charging within private households. Supporting Actions • Require electric vehicle outlets on external walls or in garages in all new residential development. • Simplify electrical permitting processes for electric vehicle charging. • Work with the BCAQMD to provide an appliance trade-in program for residential lawn and garden equipment. 3. TRANSPORTATION 3.1 CREATE A TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR BUSINESSES THROUGHOUT BUTTE COUNTY COMPOSED OF REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYERS WITH MORE THAN 50 EMPLOYEES (LARGE EMPLOYERS) AND VOLUNTARY ACTIONS FOR SMALLER EMPLOYERS. The County will require all large employers to implement a transportation demand management (TDMJ program to reduce drive -alone trips and support ridesharing, public transit, walking, and bicycling. Each large employer will be required to submit an annual TDM monitoring report to the County describing the progress of TDM goals. The County will recommend a suite of TDM strategies that each large employer may implement to achieve the goal, including but not limited to: transit subsidy passes, employer rideshare assistance, transit and bicycle subsidies, emergency ride home services, telecommute/flex commute options, and car- and bike -sharing solutions. Smaller employers will also be encouraged to participate on a voluntary basis. Supporting Actions • Adopt a TDM ordinance that identifies ways employers can help reduce worker commutes through public transit and carpool programs. • Require large employers (more than 50 employees) to submit a plan that demonstrates compliance with the TDM ordinance. • Encourage existing employers and small employers to participate in TDM. • Create an annual survey to track employee commute trends for all participating businesses. • Connect employers with regional transit resources and partners, working with partners such as the Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG) and Butte Regional Transit. • Provide facilities for carpooling and park and ride programs and facilities such as the Park and Ride lot adjacent to the Oroville Veterans Memorial Hall. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan FIR A-7 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 4. AGRICULTURE 4.1 IMPLEMENT BEST PRACTICES IN RICE FARMING. Methane emissions from organic decomposition are generated in rice fields while they are harvested and drained, following flood -irrigation during the growing period. Numerous efforts are currently under way to better understand and reduce emissions associated with rice farming. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is currently developing an emissions offset protocol for rice. Once adopted, the protocol would provide a method for farmers to verify and sell offset credits for implementing best practices that reduce emissions. Such a program could provide additional revenue for rice farmers. The US Department of Agriculture also operates a Rice Experiment Station to investigate and pilot new practices. These efforts provide resources for Butte County rice farmers to learn more about improving crop practices while reducing emissions. Supporting Actions • Collaborate with the USDA Rice Experiment Station to support best practices in rice farming. • Monitor the state's efforts to develop an offset protocol for rice cultivation projects. • Encourage the Butte County Rice Growers Association to promote optimal rice cultivation practices that maintain high yields and reduce GHG emissions. 4.2 REDUCE THE AMOUNTOF BURNED AGRICULTURAL RESIDUE. Agricultural burning is the practice of using fire to reduce or dispose of vegetative debris from an agricultural activity. Common agricultural burning practices include: field -burning large areas of crop residue after harvest to reduce excess plant material, to control crop diseases, weeds or pests, or to maintain crop yields; disposing of piles of agricultural debris (e.g., orchard trees, limbs, haystacks); and clearing vegetation from irrigation ditches and canals. In 2006, approximately 24,000 tons of material was burned in Butte County, primarily associated with orchards and rice. Since 2006, a reduction has already occurred based on changes in farming practices and crop types (e.g., increased chipping). This measure provides an opportunity to account for the associated GHG reductions from these changes, which are also anticipated to continue in future years. Supporting Actions • Support BCAQMD permitting efforts to reduce residue burn. • Connect agricultural operators to cost-effective chipping or other group options for disposing agricultural waste. • Investigate interest and feasibility for development of centralized chipping programs in coordination with other green waste efforts at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. • Encourage the processing of agricultural waste products into building materials and biofuels. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan FIR A-8 County of Butte December 2013 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 4.3 OPTIMIZE THE EFFICIENCY OF WATER IRRIGATION PRACTICES THROUGH CLEAN, ALTERNATIVE IRRIGATION ENERGY SOURCES. There are approximately 500 diesei-powered pumps located throughout Butte County, which are used for water irrigation. In 2006, these pumps were responsible for approximately 28,000 MTCO2e, making up almost 6.5% of the agriculture sector. Since 2006, use of solar powered pumps has steadily increased in Butte County based on the number of permits issued. This measure provides an opportunity to account for pumps that have been converted since 2006, which is also anticipated to continue in future years as solar pumps become more affordable and practical. Supporting Actions • Work with the BCAQMD to review the success of the countywide pump amnesty program. Develop a local amnesty program to register all agricultural pumps throughout the county and support BCAQMD efforts. Promote rebate opportunities for solar PV -powered pump equipment through the Farm Bureau and with other agricultural partners. 4.4 IMPROVE MAINTENANCE OF AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES TO REDUCE FUEL USE. Farm equipment is essential to various agricultural practices (e.g., plowing, planting, tilling). Most farm equipment is gasoline- or- diese►-fueled, and farm equipment in Butte County emitted approximately 74,000 MTCO2e in 2006, composing almost 17% of the agriculture sector. According to air district guidance in California, typical best management practices (e.g., maintaining equipment in proper working order) can result in a 5% reduction in emissions. This measure promotes and supports fuel efficiency in farm equipment resulting in both cost savings and GHG reductions. Supporting Actions • Promote best practices in agricultural equipment maintenance. • Collaborate with the BCAQMD to publicize rebates for improvements. • Provide materials promoting the transition to consolidated farm equipment. 4.5 IMPLEMENT BEST PRACTICES IN FERTILIZER AND PESTICIDE USE. Fertilizer and pesticides are used to achieve desired plant growth and production. Their use results in approximately 100,000 MTCO2e per year, making up more than 23% of the agricultural sector. Since 2006, a reduction has already occurred in this subsector based on changes in farming practices. This measure provides the opportunity to account for the associated GHG reductions from these changes, which are also anticipated to increase in future years. Supporting Actions • Collaborate with stakeholders to support the efficient use of fertilizer. County of Butte December 2013 Ee Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan f!R APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 4.6 DEVELOP A LOCAL CARBON SEQUESTRATION OR OFFSET PROGRAM ON AGRICULTURAL AND TIMBER LAND. CARB has adopted an offset protocol for livestock projects and is currently developing an offset protocol for rice cultivation. Offset protocols provide a method for farmers to sell verified offset credits for approved practices that reduce emissions. Credits could be sold in the state auction for the cap -and -trade, or through other offset programs such as the American Carbon Registry and the Climate Action Reserve. The County will also encourage local efforts to further incentivize GHG reductions through a local offset program. The County will work with the BCAQMD and other potential stakeholders to gauge local interest and feasibility. Such efforts would build on the state's offset protocol, working to further incentivize local agricultural operations to reduce GHG emissions. Supporting Actions • Monitor opportunities for a local program, pending action by CAR B. • Investigate opportunities with the BCAQMD and agricultural stakeholders. 5. SOLID WASTE 5.1 SUSTAIN A MAXIMUM PRACTICAL METHANE CAPTURE RATE AT THE NEAL ROAD RECYCLING AND WASTE FACILITY. The Butte County Public Works Department operates the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility, where most solid waste generated in Butte County is landfilled. GHG emissions occur in landfills as organic materials in the waste decompose and release methane. The LGOP estimates that the average US landfill captures approximately 75% of generated methane, allowing 25% to escape to the atmosphere, The County captures escaping methane for energy generation, thus reducing methane that escapes to the atmosphere. This measure provides actions to continue aggressively capturing methane and to conduct a study that verifies the current capture rate. Supporting Actions • Continue to monitor landfill gas emissions. • Expand gas collection systems in areas where waste is at least two years old to achieve early capture of methane. • Expand long -terra landfill gas purchase agreements. • Conduct a comprehensive study to verify the current methane capture rate. • Research and develop conversion technology that results in increased capture of methane associated with organic waste. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan E1R december 2013 A-10 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 5.2 ADOPT A COUNTYWIDE DIVERSION RATE TARGET OF 75%, CONSISTENT WITH STATE POuCY, One way to reduce landfill -generated methane is to reduce the amount of waste being landfilled. AB 341 (2012) sets a statewide policy target of a 75% diversion rate by 2013. Measure W2 adopts that target at the county level and recommends strategies to achieve it. Supporting Actions • Adopt an ordinance identifying a 75% diversion rate target consistent with AB 341. • Develop a program with haulers to track large waste generators. • Certify facilities that are achieving or exceeding 50% waste diversion to achieve a 75% diversion rate by 2020. • Support local facilities and programs that result in additional diversion of organic waste. 6. GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS 6.1 IMPROVE ENERGY MONITORING AND TRACKING. Energy costs are a substantial part of the County's annual budget. Currently, the County tracks electricity and natural gas use through several large accounts, and does not have a detailed understanding of energy use at the building or department level. A more detailed accounting describing where energy is used can enable the County to make better energy -efficiency retrofit decisions. This measure directs the County to install submeters on prioritized buildings and incorporate submeter results into the annual facility assessment process. Supporting Actions • Develop a prioritized list of buildings to install submeters, prioritizing single meters that track energy for multiple uses. • Install submeters at all County facilities as funding allows. • Work with departments to incorporate submeter results into the annual facility assessment process. 6.2 IMPROVE OPERATIONS WITH ENERGY-EFFICIENT EQUIPMENT. This measure establishes a commitment to purchase cost-effective energy equipment when appropriate to reduce energy costs, energy consumption, and GHG emissions. Newer, more energy-efficient appliances and equipment con reduce maintenance costs and operate more efficiently than older models. Supporting Actions Adopt a revised procurement manual with a policy that requires evaluation of ENERGY STAR products. • Reduce the number of computer network servers by upgrading to more efficient units. County of Butte December 2013 A-11 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS • Install automatic thermostat controls on facilities to help regulate building temperatures for diverse users. • Install other automatic sensors to eliminate unnecessary energy use in energy and lighting, using technologies such as plug loads, occupancy sensors, and timers. 6.3 IMPROVE HEATING AND COOLING FUNCTIONS OF COUNTY BUILDINGS. Inefficient HVAC systems and improperly sealed duct networks can increase the amount of energy required to heat and cool a building, and can potentially cause increased maintenance needs. This measure requires the County to identify inefficiencies and upgrade heating and cooling systems. The County has completed energy audits and is currently adjusting and optimizing the environmental management system in County buildings. Supporting Actions • Identify buildings with inefficient heating and cooling systems to target for commissioning projects or climate rezoning. • Identify low-cost options to reduce space heater use and regulate building temperature. • Adopt a policy to implement measures to improve building temperature performance as feasible during other maintenance and improvement activities. 6.4 IMPLEMENT FISCAL AND BUDGETING PRACTICES THAT IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY. The energy saved from conservation and efficiency efforts may result in savings on electricity and natural gas bills. The money saved can be used to fund further efficiency efforts. This measure establishes a process for the County to invest energy savings in further energy efficiency retrofits. Supporting Actions • Each year during the County's budget development process, the General Services Department shall propose improvements to County facilities that achieve efficiency and reductions. • Continue to implement energy-efficient improvements to County facilities in a manner that maximizes federal and state funding participation. 6.5 IMPLEMENT HABITABILITY MEASURES THAT CUT COSTS. Facility audits provide the County with information to invest in high -yield energy efficiency projects. This measure directs the County to audit facilities and invest in retrofit and other energy - efficiency projects, building on a 2011 energy audit of the government center campus that identified 19 actions with energy savings. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan FIR December 2013 A-12 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS Supporting Actions • Work with utility providers to complete free to low-cost audits of County facilities and identify project opportunities. • Adopt a policy that all roof maintenance shall include a price estimate for using energy- efficient and cool roof materials. 6.6 REDUCE FUEL USE IN THE COUNTY FLEET. Fuel used by the County vehicle fleet accounted for approximately 14% of 2006 government operations emissions. This measure identifies opportunities for the County to reduce fuel consumption through alternative fuel options for light- and heavy-duty vehicles, building on previous efforts such as annual reports describing vehicle use and purchasing of hybrid cars. Supporting Actions • Track options for alternative fuel vehicles. • Continue to review options through the Fleet Committee. • Implement CARB standards with replacement of the County's heavy-duty diesel vehicles (>14,000Ib). 6.7 REDUCE EMISSIONS FROM EMPLOYEE COMMUTES BY ENCOURAGING ALTERNATIVE TRAVEL OPTIONS AND SUPPORTING THE USE OF CLEAN, ALTERNATIVE FUELS. The employee commutes and travel sector was the largest non -landfill contributor to 2006 government operations emissions (20% of total emissions). This measure identifies opportunities to reduce commute and travel emissions. Supporting Actions • Conduct an annual survey to track employee commute patterns, and provide an award to departments with the highest percent participation in commuter or public transit programs. • Consider meeting and conferring with employee groups to provide vouchers or subsidized bus passes to employees that use public transit or participate in carpool or commuter programs. • Work with BCAG and the BCAQMD to identify available funding sources. • Aim to provide at least one electric vehicle charging station at each County campus. 6.8 CONSTRUCT NEW BUILDINGS TO CALGREEN TIER 1 STANDARDS. New County buildings have the potential to set an example for the community while saving energy for the life of the structure. This measure requires new County buildings to be more energy efficient than minimum code requirements. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan E!R A-13 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS Supporting Actions • In addition to meeting LEER Silver standards (or equivalent), new County facilities exceeding 3,000 square feet shall meet CALGreen Tier 1 standards for energy efficiency, a 15% improvement over minimum energy standards. 6.9 REDUCE METHANE EMISSIONS FROM THE NEAL ROAD RECYCLING AND WASTE FACILITY. This measure applies the GHG reduction benefits quantified in W1 to government operations. The reductions for government operations are larger than the community reductions because they include methane emissions from waste that originated in all areas of the county, including incorporated cities. Supporting Actions • Achieve a total methane capture rate of 90% at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility. 6.10 PARTICIPATE IN A LEADERSHIP OR RECOGNITION PROGRAM TO PROMOTE AND SUPPORT COUNTY SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES. Through its innovative sustainability work, the County is in a position to act as a positive example for the community. Public information campaigns and awards for County accomplishments can raise community awareness of and prompt action to support sustainability. Supporting Actions • Identify a no -cost program for the County to provide resources for energy efficiency, clean energy, and other sustainability efforts. Opportunities include the Beacon Award Program and the CoolColifornia Challenge. • Seek regional, statewide, and national recognition for the County's renewable energy projects in programs such as the US Environmental Protection Agency's Green Power Communities Program. • Consider creation of an ongoing County Sustainability Team consisting of representatives from each department that will support CAP implementation. 7. CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION MEASURES 7.1 ADAPT TO INCREASING WILDFIRE FREQUENCY AND SEVERITY. Changes in precipitation (rain and snowfall), humidity, and temperature have the cumulative effect of increasing conditions where wildfires could occur with greater frequency and severity. As evidenced by the 2013 Swedes fire, Butte County has a large potential wildfire fuel source as well as homes, infrastructure, and business located within the wildlond-urban interface. Through the following actions, the County seeks to gain a better understanding of wildfire vulnerability in future climate conditions and to increase the ability of structures, functions, and populations to adapt to changing conditions. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan E1R December 2013 A-1 4 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS Supporting Actions • Monitor wildfire conditions and use wildfire projects to identify fuel reduction and fuel break sites in addition to those listed in the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). • Engage key stakeholders, including local fire safe councils, to create and distribute educational materials about intensifying wildfire risks, wildfire risks in new areas, and risk reduction strategies. • Amend the zoning code to create a Fire Hazard Severity Overby Zone with specific fuel break, defensible space, and on-site water requirements for Cal OES-designated high and very high fire hazard severity zones. Amend and readopt the overlay zone concurrent with Cal OES fire hazard severity zone updates. • Integrate expected changes to fire hazard severity zones as a result of climate change into the Butte Unit Community Wildfire Protection Plan, the Wildfire Mitigation Action Plan, and the Butte County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. 7.2 PREPARE FOR CHANGING PRECIPITATION PATTERNS AND WATER SUPPLY. Changes in precipitation patterns may affect snowpack in the mountains to the east of the county as well as reduce groundwater recharge. Both of these effects can reduce access to drinking water and agricultural irrigation and could impact food processing operations, some of which are intense water users. Through education, efficiency, and conservation, the following adaptation actions help Butte County prepare for a future where water may be less plentiful and more expensive. Supporting Actions • Collaborate with Northern Sacramento Valley Integrated Regional Water Management agencies to include climate change considerations in the Integrated Regional Water Resource Management Plan (IRWRMP). Monitor climate change effects on water resources and update future IRWRMPs accordingly. Enroll and participate in the Energy Star Challenge. • Support other agencies to help vulnerable populations conserve water and reduce household resource costs through income -qualified subsidies and rebates for water -efficient equipment upgrades including pump retrofits, low -flow toilets, and faucet aerators. • Engage key stakeholders to create and distribute educational materials that identify water sources and explain the relationship between groundwater levels, snowpack, and the costs and reliability of water. • Include climate change considerations in the drought section of LHMP updates. • Work with agricultural water providers to prioritize groundwater pump energy efficiency and promote conservation efforts. • Collaborate with water providers to incorporate anticipated water supply changes that may result from reduced snowpack and lower groundwater levels into agricultural management plans. Include plans for flood irrigation serving rice crop areas south of Nelson, and groundwater sources that supply drip irrigation practices west of Chico. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR A-15 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 7.3 ANTICIPATE INCREASES IN FLOODING FREQUENCY AND SEVERITY. Even though overall precipitation levels may decline under future climate conditions, it is likely that precipitation events that do occur will be more extreme. With foothills in the east draining into a large valley in the west, Butte County is already vulnerable to flooding. Increases in extreme precipitation events are likely to affect the county's most vulnerable populations and the economy through flooding and may additionally increase erosion in the long term. The actions below can make Butte County more resilient to increases in flooding frequency and severity. Supporting Actions • Include anticipated flooding increases in the County's National Flood Insurance Program regulatory activities for new and existing structures and drainage system maintenance. • Include anticipated flood increase considerations in public outreach activities, including information about the stormwater management program, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), and information related to the maintenance of drainage systems. • Amend development standards to include stormwater management infrastructure in all new development, including impervious pavement lot -coverage maximums, on-site water retention requirements, grey water storage requirements, and other Low Impact Development (LID) techniques. • Develop a Lake Oroville flooding evacuation plan that anticipates changing risks from a decrease in the Sierra snowpack and an increase in more severe rainfall events. 7.4 PREPARE AND QUICKLY RESPOND TO MORE FREQUENT AND INTENSE EXTREME HEAT EVENTS. As the climate continues to change, extreme heat events are likely to occur more frequently and last longer. Heat affects Butte County in multiple ways including effects on agricultural production, stressors to disadvantaged populations with limited access to reliable cooling, and through the generation of troposphere ozone in the more urbanized areas of the unincorporated county. The following actions will help the County respond to and recover quickly from extreme heat events. Supporting Actions • Incorporate anticipated extreme heat event severity and frequency into annual updates of the Butte County Emergency Operations Plan Excessive Heat Hazard Appendix. • Work with community organizations to provide cooling centers during extreme heat events. • Support attainment of ambient air quality standards to prevent tropospheric ozone and related public health problems. • Reduce heat islands in urbanized unincorporated communities using high -albedo pavements, cool roofs, and tree requirements for public facilities maintenance, capital improvements, and new development. Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 A-7 6 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS • Work with partners to prioritize and leverage greening and forestry grants for urbanized unincorporated communities. 8. RESILIENCY 8.1 ENHANCE THE ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF LOCAL AGRICULTURE IN A CHANGING CLIMATE. Agriculture is the heart of Butte County's heritage and economy. Maintaining the economic viability of agriculture is critical to the continued health of the county. More so than in other economic sectors, agricultural success is deeply rooted in prevailing climate conditions. Changes to water access, growing season length, and weed and pest populations are examples of a large list of changes the agricultural community may face under a changing climate. The following actions seek to provide resources to the agricultural community to make informed decisions about the future. The actions also identify secondary revenue streams and expand markets to provide Butte County farmers additional opportunities to maintain the critical services they provide. Supporting Actions • Provide adaptation information to the farming community using Yolo County's Agricultural Adaptation website as a model (http://agadapt.ucdavis.edu/). Work with regional agricultural organizations to develop and distribute materials. At a minimum, include information about climate change effects on pests, weeds, water, and growing seasons. • Work with regional farming organizations to develop and provide risk reduction best practices for anticipated changes such as more resilient pests, new weeds, reduced water availability, and altered growing seasons. • Encourage efficient irrigation techniques (e.g., drip lines) and financial resources to support installation (e.g., revolving loans, low interest financing, information about return on investment). • Provide educational and financial assistance for farmers to transition to profitable drought - resilient hardy crop types. • Promote and support secondary revenue streams to support a strong, sustained agricultural sector including carbon offsets, agritourism, renewable energy siting, and biomass energy generation. • Develop and support local agriculture markets via a "Buy Butte" campaign that designates local produce and enhances the local market. • Facilitate agreements between local agricultural distributors and local schools, low-income food providers, institutions, nonprofits such as GRUB, universities, and large employers to' maximize access to local healthy foods. • Provide outreach to low-income food benefit recipients explaining eligibility of benefits at local farmers markets. County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan E1R A-17 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS 8.2 SUPPORT RESILIENT ECOSYSTEMS. Butte County has a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. As ecosystems face stressors from climate change, it is important that species and communities have the opportunity to move to areas where they can thrive. The action provided below facilitates adaptive migration by incorporating climate change considerations into future updates of the Butte Regional Conservation Plan. Supporting Actions • Work with BCAG to incorporate anticipated changes to habitat and migration corridors into updates of the Butte Regional Conservation Plan. 8.3 SUSTAIN A THRIVING ECONOMY THAT CAPITALIZES ON CHANGING CONDITIONS. Just as agriculture faces distinct challenges in a changing climate, the rest of Butte County's economy also faces numerous challenges. Actions provided below help develop an alternative energy workforce and maintain the economic viability of the region's premier recreation resource, the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. Supporting Actions • Maintain agriculture as the economic base of the county. • Work with Butte College and CSU Chico and pursue grant funding to support energy contractor certification. Develop a skilled alternative energy workforce that enhances local industry and the local economy. • Work with State Parks to update the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area General Plan with anticipated changes to lake conditions. • Participate in an economic development study for the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area that focuses on diverse economic attractors and maximizes economic resiliency. 9. GOVERNMENT RESILIENCY 9.1 ACCOUNT FOR CLIMATE CHANGE EFFECTS IN EXISTING GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS. Operational measures to address climate change assess climate change vulnerabilities and sensitive populations on a regular basis. They also address climate change adaptation in planning and public safety documents. The County will integrate climate considerations into current practices to ensure ongoing consideration and evaluation of new and future risks, and include anticipated changes in extreme events (e.g., expected increase in extreme heat days, wildfires, flooding) in appropriate plans, policies, and programs as they are updated. Supporting Actions • Draw on the recently completed hazards vulnerability assessment in the County's 2013 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to prepare a comprehensive climate change vulnerability assessment that analyzes anticipated future vulnerabilities based on the changing impacts of climate change. Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan E1R A-18 County of Butte December 2013 APPENDIX A - PROPOSED CLIMATE ACTION PLAN MEASURES AND ACTIONS Update the climate change vulnerability assessment concurrently with future LHMP vu€nerability assessments to ensure the County is analyzing both historic and future vulnerabilities. 9.2 WORK WITH PARTNERS TO PREPARE FOR CLIMATE CHANGE. in coordination with other jurisdictions, agencies, and partners, the County can work more effectively to identify resources and approaches to respond to climate change. Regional coordination also supports more informed decision-making that minimizes hazards and protects vulnerable resources. Supporting Actions • Partner with neighboring jurisdictions and regional entities to create an ongoing monitoring program that tracks local and regional climate change effects and adaptation efforts and outcomes. • Provide leadership in the community by committing to purchase local agricultural products for government operations and county -hosted events. Identify partnerships, funding programs, and opportunities for assessing changing risks, such as partnerships with Chico State Institute for Sustainable Development, Butte College, and local nonprofit groups. County of Butte December 2013 A-19 Climate Action Plan Addendum to the General Plan EIR APPENDIX B - GENERAL PLAN POLICY MATRIX APPENDIX B — GENERAL PLAN POLICY MATRIX GENERAL PLAN 2030 PROGRAMMATIC POLICIES AND ACTIONS MITIGATING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS UNDER CEQA Some policies in the General Pian are also required as means to mitigate environmental impacts under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). These policies all use the imperative "shall," and in all cases are mandatory. These policies are marked with an asterisk (*), and are provided herein. LU -P4.1 The integrity and stability of existing residential neighborhoods shall be promoted and preserved.* LU -P5.3 New industrial uses shall be designed to avoid adverse impacts to adjacent uses, particularly residential neighborhoods, with respect to, but not limited to, noise, dust and vibration, water quality, air quality, agricultural resources, and biological resources.* LU -P15.2 New urban development shall be primarily located in or immediately adjoining already urbanized areas.* AG -P5.3 The Zoning Ordinance shall require that a buffer be established on property proposed for residential development in order to protect existing agricultural uses from incompatible use conflicts. The desired standard shall be 300 feet, but may be adjusted to address unusual circumstances.* W -P1.7 Agriculture, logging, mining, recreational vehicle use and other open space uses shall follow best management practices to minimize erosion and protect water resources.* W -P2.9 Applicants for new major development projects, as determined by the Department of Development Services, shall demonstrate adequate water supply to meet the needs of the project, including an evaluation of potential cumulative impacts to surrounding groundwater users and the environment.* W -P3.3 The County shall protect groundwater recharge and groundwater quality when considering new development projects.* W -P4.6 New development projects shall adopt best management practices for water use efficiency and demonstrate specific water conservation measures.* W -P5.2 New development projects shall identify and adequately mitigate their water quality impacts from stormwater runoff.* W -P5.4 Temporary facilities shall be installed as necessary during construction activities in order to adequately treat stormwater runoff from construction sites.* W -P6.2 Where streambanks are already unstable, as demonstrated by erosion or landslides along banks, tree collapse or severe in -channel sedimentation, proponents of new development projects shall prepare a hydraulic and/or geomorphic assessment of on-site and downstream drainageways that are affected by project area runoff.* COS -P5.2 Developers shall implement best management practices to reduce air pollutant emissions associated with the construction and operation of development projects.* County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan E!R B-1 APPENDIX S — GENERAL PLAN POLICY MATRIX COS -P5.4 Stationary air pollutant emission sources, such as factories, shall be located more than 500 feet and/or downwind from residential areas and other sensitive receptors.* COS -P5.5 Residential developments and other projects with sensitive receptors shall be located more than 500 feet from stationary air pollutant sources. Residential developments and other projects with sensitive receptors (e.g. housing, schools, child care centers, playgrounds, hospitals, and senior centers) that are located within 500 feet of a high-volume roadway that carries over 50,000 vehicles per day shall incorporate feasible mitigation measures to protect sensitive receptors from harmful concentrations of air pollutants, as recommended in the California Air Resources Board's (CARB's) Air Quality and Land Use Handbook.* COS -P5.6 New sources of toxic air pollutants shall comply with the permitting requirements of the Butte County Air Quality Management District and Section 44300 et. seq. of the California Health and Safety Code.* COS -P7.3 Creeks shall be maintained in their natural state whenever possible, and creeks and floodways shall be allowed to function as natural flood protection features during storms.* CDS-P7.4 New development projects shall mitigate their impacts in habitat areas for protected species through on- or off-site habitat restoration, clustering of development, and/or project design and through the provisions of the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) within the HCP/NCCP Planning Area, upon the future adoption of the HCP/NCCP.* COS -P7.5 No new development projects shall occur in wetlands or within significant riparian habitats, except within the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) Planning Area where such development is consistent with the conditions of the HCP/NCCP, upon the future adoption of the HCP/NCCP.* COS -P7.6 New development projects shall include setbacks and buffers along riparian corridors and adjacent to habitat for protected species, except where permitted in the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HGP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) Planning Area and where such development is consistent with the conditions of the HCP/NCCP, upon the future adoption of the HCP/NCCP.* COS -P7.7 Construction barrier fencing shall be installed around sensitive resources on or adjacent to construction sites. Fencing shall be installed prior to construction activities and maintained throughout the construction period.* COS -P7.8 Where sensitive on-site biological resources have been identified, construction employees operating equipment or engaged in any development -associated activities involving vegetation removal or ground disturbing activities in sensitive resource areas shall be trained by a qualified biologist and/or botanist who will provide information on the on-site biological resources (sensitive natural communities, specialstatus plant and wildlife habitats, nests of special -status birds, etc.), avoidance of invasive plant introduction and spread, and the penalties for not complying with biological mitigation requirements and other State and federal regulations.* COS -P7.9 A biologist shall be retained to conduct construction monitoring in and adjacent to all habitats for protected species when construction is taking place near such habitat areas.* Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan EIR December 2013 B-2 APPENDIX B — GENERAL PLAN POLICY MATRIX COS -P8.4 Introduction or spread of invasive plant species during construction of development projects shall be avoided by minimizing surface disturbance; seeding and mulching disturbed areas with certified weed -free native mixes; and using native, noninvasive species in erosion control plantings.* COS -P9.1 A biological resources assessment shall be required for any proposed development project where special -status species or critical habitat may be present. Assessments shall be carried out under the direction of Butte County. Additional focused surveys shall be conducted during the appropriate season if necessary. Upon adoption of the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP), assessment requirements of the HCP/NCCP shall be implemented for development projects within the HCP/NCCP area.* COS -P9.2 If special -status plant or animal species are found to be located within a development site, proponents of the project shall engage in consultation with the appropriate federal, State and regional agencies and mitigate project impacts in accordance with State and federal law. Upon adoption of the Butte Regional Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCPJ, assessment requirements of the HCP/NCCP shall be implemented for development projects with the HCP/NCCP area. Examples of mitigation may include*: a. Design the proposed project to avoid and minimize impacts. b. Restrict construction to specific seasons based on project -specific special -status species issues (e.g. minimizing impacts to special -status nesting birds by constructing outside of the nesting season). c. Confine construction disturbance to the minimum area necessary to complete the work. d. Mitigate for the loss of special -status species by purchasing credits at an approved conservation bank (if a bank exists for the species in question), funding restoration or habitat improvement projects at existing preserves in Butte County or purchase e. Maintain a minimum 100 -foot buffer on each side of all riparian corridors, creeks and streams for special -status and common wildlife. f. Establish setbacks from the outer edge of special -status species habitat areas. g. Construct barriers to prevent compaction damage by foot or vehicular traffic. COS -P12.2 Mineral resources identified by the State to be of regional or statewide significance for mineral resource extraction shall be conserved.* COS -P15.1 Areas found during construction to contain significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts shall be examined by a qualified consulting archaeologist or historian for appropriate protection and preservation. Historic or prehistoric artifacts found during construction shall be examined by a qualified consulting archaeologist or historian to determine their significance and develop appropriate protection and preservation measures.* COS -P15.2 Any archaeological or paleontological resources on a development project site shall be either preserved in their sites or adequately documented as a condition of removal. When a development project has sufficient flexibility, avoidance and preservation of the resource shall be the primary mitigation measure.* County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan EIR B-3 APPENDIX B — GENERAL PLAN POLICY MATRIX COS -P16.4 If human remains are located during any ground disturbing activity, work shall stop until the County Coroner has been contacted, and, if the human remains are determined to be of Native American origin, the NAHC and most likely descendant have been consulted.* COS -P17.1 Views of Butte County's scenic resources, including water features, unique geologic features and wildlife habitat areas, shall be maintained.* COS -P17.2 Ridgeline development near scenic resources shall be limited via the adoption of specific development guidelines in order to minimize visual impacts.* COS -A1.1 Within one year of adoption of General Plan 2030, coordinate with regional agencies to develop a Climate Action Plan, which, in combination with other existing policies and regulations by other agencies and business sectors of the economy, would achieve reduction consistent with State guidelines using methodology deemed appropriate at the time of quantification. Include the following as components in the Climate Action Plan:* a. Establish a detailed inventory of current (2006) GHG emissions in Butte County, including, but not limited to, residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural emissions. b. Forecast GHG emissions for areas within the jurisdictional control of the County for "business as usual" conditions in 2 c. Identify methods to reduce GHG emissions to a level that would achieve reduction consistent with State guidelines at the time of quantification. d. Quantify the 2030 reductions in GHG emissions from the identified methods. e. Require monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions. f. Establish a schedule of actions for implementation through 2020. g. Identify funding sources for implementation through 2020. h. Identify a process to set a reduction goal for 2030 by 2020. i. Update the Climate Action Plan by 2020 to include reduction measures to achieve the adopted 2030 reduction goal. j. Develop a Climate Change Preparedness Plan that will prepare for the impacts of climate change on the county's economic and natural ecosystems and promote a climate resilient community. HS -P1.1 New development projects proposed in areas that exceed the land use compatibility standards in Tables HS -2 and HS -3 of the General Plan shall require mitigation of noise impacts.* HS -P1.2 Noise from transportation sources shall not exceed land use compatibility standards in General Plan Table HS -2.* HS -P1.3 New noise -sensitive land uses shall not be located within the 55 Ldn contour of airports, roadways, and other noise generating uses, with the exception of the Chico Municipal Airport.* HS -P1.4 New noise -sensitive land uses shall not be located within the 60 Ldn contour of the Chico Municipal Airport.* Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan ElR December 2013 134 APPENDIX 8 — GENERAL PLAN POLICY MATRIX HS -P1.9 The following standard construction noise control measures shall be required at construction sites in order to minimize construction noise impacts:* a. Equip all internal combustion engine driven equipment with intake and exhaust mufflers that are in good condition and appropriate for the equipment. b. Locate stationary noise -generating equipment as far as possible from sensitive receptors when sensitive receptors adjoin or are near a construction project area. c. Utilize quiet air compressors and other stationary noise -generating equipment where appropriate technology exists and is feasible. HS -P2.4 Development projects on lands within the 100 -year flood zone, as identified on the most current available maps from FEMA (the most current available map at the time of the publication of General Plan 2030 is shown on Figure HS -1), shall be allowed only if the applicant demonstrates that it will not:* a. Create danger to life and property due to increased flood heights or velocities caused by excavation, fill, roads and intended use. b. Create difficult emergency vehicle access in fsmes of flood. c. Create a safety hazard due to the height, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of the flood waters expected at the site. d. Create excessive costs in providing governmental services during and after flood conditions, including maintenance and repair of public facilities. e. Interfere with the existing water conveyance capacity of the floodway. f. Substantially increase erosion and/or sedimentation. g. Require significant storage of material or any substantial grading or substantial placement of fill that is not approved by the County through a development agreement, discretionary permit, or other discretionary entitlement, a ministerial permit that would result in the construction of a new residence; or a tentative map or parcel map. h. Conflict with the provisions of the applicable requirements of Government Code Sections 65865.5, 65962 or 66474.5. HS -P2.5 The lowest floor of any new construction or substantial improvement within Flood Zones A, AE, AH and shaded Zone X, as shown in Figure HS -1 or the most current maps available from FEMA, shall be elevated 1 foot or more above the 100 -year flood elevation. (County Flood Ordinance Sec. 26-22). Within urban or urbanizing areas, as defined in Government Code 65007, the lowest floor of any new construction or substantial improvements shall be elevated a minimum of I foot above the 200 -year flood elevation.* HS -P3.2 Applicants for new development projects shall provide plans detailing existing drainage conditions and specifying how runoff will be detained or retained on-site and/or conveyed to the nearest drainage facility and shall provide that there shall be no increase in the peak flow runoff to said channel or facility.* County of Butte Climate Action Plan December 2013 Addendum to the General Plan E!R B-5 APPENDIX B — GENERAL PLAN POLICY MATRIX HS -P3.3 All development projects shall include stormwater control measures and site design features that prevent any increase in the peak flow runoff to existing drainage facilities.* HS -P6.1 Appropriate detailed seismic investigations shall be completed for all public and private development projects in accordance with the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act.* HS -P7.1 Site-specific geotechnical investigations shall be required to assess landslide potential for private development projects and public facilities in areas rated "Moderate to High" in Figure HS - 5 or the most current available mapping.* HS -P8.1 Site-specific geotechnical investigations shall be required to assess erosion potential for private development projects and public facilities in areas rated "Very High" in Figure HS -5 or the most current available mapping.* HS -P9.1 Site-specific geotechnical investigations shall be required to assess risks from expansive soils for private development projects and public facilities in areas rated "High" in Figure HS -6 or the most current available mapping.* PUB -P1.2 County facilities shall be designed, constructed and operated to be environmentally sustainable, and beneficial to the community and the region.* PUB -P12.3 New community sewerage systems shall be managed by a public County sanitation district or other County -approved methods. Proponents shall demonstrate the financial viability of constructing, operating and maintaining the proposed community sewerage system.* Climate Action Plan County of Butte Addendum to the General Plan E1R December 2013 B -b