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TPM14-0005_IS-MND_Final 021916
Department of Development Services Tim Snellings, Director Pete Calarco, Assistant Director 7 County Center Drive T: 530.538.7601 Oroville, California 95965 F: 530.538.7785 buttecounty.net/dds BUTTE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Butte County has prepared an Initial Study and is considering the adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project listed below at a public hearing before the Butte County Planning Commission to be held on March 24, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. in the Butte County Board of Supervisors’ Room, County Administration Center, 25 County Center Drive, Oroville, CA Project: Robert and Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map (TPM14-0005) Location: The project site is located at the intersection of Bell Road and Alamo Avenue, approximately ¼ mile west from the City of Chico city limits APN: 042-770-032 Proposal: The applicant is requesting to subdivide 12.69 acres into four lots: 5.19 acres (Lot 1), 2.5 acres (Lot 2), 2.5 acres (Lot 3), and 2.5 acres (Lot 4). The General Plan land use designation of the project site is VLDR (Very Low Density Residential). The project site is zoned VLDR-2.5. Pursuant to the requirements of Butte County Code §24-56.1 (Residential Setback from Orchards and Vineyards), the Department of Development Services in conjunction with the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office is recommending a residential dwelling setback from adjacent active orchards of 50 feet from the western property line. The Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) and reference documents for these projects are on file for public review and comment starting February 23, 2016 through March 23, 2016, at the Butte County Planning Division, 7 County Center Drive, Oroville, CA. The IS/MND is also available for review on the County website at http://www.buttecounty.net/dds/Planning/CEQA.aspx. All persons are invited to review the documents. Comments may be submitted at the above address to the Planning Division in writing at any time prior to the hearing or orally at the meeting listed above, or as may be continued to a later date. If you challenge the above application in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission, or prior to the public hearing. The above mentioned application is on file and available for public viewing at the office of the, 7 County Center Drive, Oroville, CA. For information call or send an email to Rowland Hickel, Senior Planner, Butte County Development Services Department, Planning Division at (530) 538- 7150 or rhickel@buttecounty.net. BUTTE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION TIM SNELLINGS, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT BUTTE COUNTY INITIAL STUDY AND PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION TENTATIVE SUBDIVISION MAP TSM 14-0002 (Kromer) This page left intentionally blank. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 1 of 49 ■ COUNTY OF BUTTE DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES INITIAL STUDY AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP TPM14-0005 (Kromer) This Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration was originally circulated for public review from October 4 through October 23, 2014. The document has been revised and is being recirculated to address the Butte County Board of Supervisors’ January 12, 2016 adoption of amendments to the Butte County General Plan and Zoning Ordinance to establish a setback requirement for new residential development adjacent to existing orchards and vineyards located in residential zones. 1.0 PROJECT INFORMATION A. Applicant/Owner: Brian Airehart (Applicant) / Robert and Leeanne Kromer (Owners) B. Staff Contact: Rowland Hickel, Senior Planner; (530) 538-7150, rhickel@buttecounty.net C. Project Name: TPM14-0005; Kromer, Robert and Leeanne Tentative Parcel Map D. Project Location: The project site is located at the intersection of Bell Road and Alamo Avenue, approximately ¼ mile west from the City of Chico city limits; Rancho Arroyo Chico Land Grant; MDB&M. E. Type of Application: Tentative Parcel Map F. Assessor Parcel Number: 042-770-032 G. Project Site Size: 12.69± acres H. Current Zoning: VLDR-2.5 (Very Low Density Residential – 2.5 acre density) I. General Plan Designation: VLDR (Very Low Density Residential) J. Environmental Setting: The project site encompasses 12.69 acres of fallow agricultural lands located ¼ mile west from the City of Chico city limits. Historic use of the property for agricultural purposes resulted in the disturbance of soils and the removal of native vegetation. Vegetation now consists primarily of non-native forbs and grasses, with a scattering of immature oak trees concentrated near the center of the site. The property is improved with an existing groundwater well and unconnected/unmetered power pole. Bell Road fronts the project site, with Jones Avenue bordering the eastern property line for approximately 1,300 feet. Elevation of the project site ranges between 163 to 168 feet above mean sea level. Topography of the site is level with 0 to 1 percent slopes. The project site is situated in the VLDR-2.5 zone district. The Very Low Density Residential zoning designation allows for single-family homes and related uses in residential neighborhoods within the county. Permitted residential uses in the VLDR zones include single-family homes, small residential care homes, second units, animal grazing, on-site agricultural product sales, and private stables. The VLDR zone also conditionally permits non-residential uses compatible with a residential setting, including public and quasi-public uses, golf courses, park and recreational facilities, personal services, animal keeping, large residential care homes, and medical offices and clinics. The minimum permitted parcel size for this zone is 2.5 acres. Both the Butte County General Plan, and from land cover data provided by the Butte County Association of Governments, in preparation of the upcoming Butte County Regional Conservation Plan identify this property as Agriculture. The agricultural natural community is comprised of several land cover types including orchards and vineyards, rice, irrigated cropland, irrigated pasture, and non-native woodland. Agriculture occurs where the soils and topography are most suitable for production, which are generally the flat and well-drained areas located in the valley region of the County. Conversion of lands to an agricultural use has resulted in the removal of most of the historical native habitat. Agriculture natural community areas generally don’t support the wildlife compared with most native habitats; however, these areas continue to Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 2 of 49 ■ support abundant wildlife and provide essential breeding, foraging and roosting habitat for many resident and migrant wildlife species. The Chico Municipal Airport is located 2.5 miles northeast from the project site, placing a portions of the project site within the Airport Land Use Compatibility Zone D. Compatibility Zone D for the Chico Municipal Airport is defined as the outer boundary of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 77 conical zone limits, subjecting lands to reviews to ensure that objects and other land uses do not affect the navigable airspace of the airport. The project site is not listed on the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List (Cortese List) and is not located near any sites or sites known or suspected to contain hazardous materials. K. Surrounding Land Uses: The area surrounding the project site primarily includes low density single-family residences on one-acre averaged-sized lots to the east and south, single-family residences and agricultural uses on five-acre sized lots to the west, and orchards/agriculture uses to the north. Public rights-of-way in the vicinity of the project site include Bell Road (County) and Alamo Avenue (County) to the south, Jones Avenue (Private), Santiago Court (Private), and Ciulla Lane (Private) to the west. Direction General Plan Designation Zoning Existing Land Use(s) North Agriculture AG-80 Agricultural/Orchards South Very Low Density Residential VLDR Residential East Very Low Density Residential VLDR-2.5 Residential West Very Low Density Residential VLDR Residential L. Project Description: The applicant is requesting to subdivide 12.69 acres into four lots: 5.19 acres (Lot 1), 2.5 acres (Lot 2), 2.5 acres (Lot 3), and 2.5 acres (Lot 4). Domestic water for future development on the resultant parcels would be provided by the on-site domestic wells. Waste water disposal for future development would be provided by individual on- site septic systems. Access to the proposed lots would be provided by a new private road within a 60-foot wide easement off Bell Road. The access road will be constructed to the County’s RS-8-LDIII Standard, which will include two, 10- foot wide travel lanes, 2-foot wide shoulders, and roadside drainages. Road surfacing will include a 4-inch aggregate base overlaid with a single layer of sealcoat. The total length of the road from Bell Road to it terminus is 1,319 feet, and will include a 40-foot radius cul-de-sac at its terminus. Road approach improvements will be constructed to S-18B standard, pursuant to the 2006 Butte County Improvement Standards. Butte County Code §24-81 et seq. (Agricultural Buffers) A 300-foot agricultural buffer will be established from the northwestern property line, pursuant to Section 24-81 et seq. of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance. A building setback will be established to provide a buffer from adjacent agricultural uses currently in operation on adjacent lands zoned Agriculture. The buffer would restrict all future residential development adjacent to current agricultural operations and agricultural zoning designations, and would minimize potential conflicts between the two uses. Butte County Code §24-56.1 (Residential Setback from Orchards and Vineyards) A 50-foot setback will be established from the western property line of the project site, pursuant to Section 24-56.1 of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance. The proposed residential setback is established from the existing agricultural uses and practices located on the adjacent property, and would apply to any future residential dwellings constructed on the resultant parcels, including guest houses. The proposed setback was reviewed by the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office on February 3, 2016, and is recommended for approval by the Butte County Planning Commission. Upon approval, the residential setback will be shown on the recorded parcel map. M. Public Agency Approvals: Butte County Department of Development Services Butte County Public Works Department Chico ¬«32 ¬«99 ¬«99 Esplanade W Eaton Rd W E a s t A v e E E a t o n R d N o r d H w y Holly Ave H e n s h a w A v e W L i n d o A v e Alamo Ave Cussick Ave D e G a r m o D r W S h a s t a A v e W 1 2 t h A v e W L a s s e n A v e Calistoga Dr Windham Way D e n a l i D r W e y m o u t h Wa y C a r m a c k D r Dix o n St L e g a c y L n Catherine Ct Southbury Ln S i l v e r L a k e D r V a i l D r C r a t e r L a k e D r Jones Ave M i l l C r e e k D r C h u r c h i l l D r C a v a l i e r W a yYellowstone D r F ern A ve T o n e a W a y Willow Bend Dr Leo Way C o m m e r c i a l A v e Aloha Ln A b b e y D r E S h a s t a A v e B u r n t R a n c h W a y Clark W ay Ilahee Ln A b b o t C i r A u r o r a G l e n D r Guynn Ave I n d i g o L n B r a d f o r d C t Loss e W ay Y a l e W a y R a s h L n R e b e c c a C t Chantel W ay E w i n g D r C a r p e r s C t R o y a l G l e n L n Roxbury Ct Shadygrove Ct B ell E states Dr A m b e r G r o v e D rWalnutshire L n I n n s b r o o k W a y L o w e l l D r Dallas Ct T a n d y C t Surrey Ln M a r s h a l l C t C r i m s o n C t Chandese Ln D e a d E n d C t W estgrove CtMesa V e r d e C t M i d d l e C r e e k C t R e g e n t L n J o r d a n s P l L a B o n i t a C t L o s t D u t c h m a n D r Bell Rd M u i r A v e Nord Ave Bay Ave Rodeo Ave Kennedy Ave Guynn Ave Nord Hwy Silverbell Rd Ala mo Ave W e s t E a s t A v e S t . C l a i r D r M e i e r D r Q u i s t a D rFrances D rHenshaw A v e G a r d e n s i d e C t Kennedy Ave TPM14-0005APN:042-770-032 Robert andLeeanne Kromer 1:17,500 0 1,100 2,200 3,300550FeetLakes Legend Roads Railroad Streams Project Location ®VICINITY MAP This page left intentionally blank. This page left intentionally blank. Chico Green Line Chico Green Line Bell Rd Nord Ave G uynn Ave Cussick Ave W S h a s t a A v e Bay Ave Nord Ave Alamo Ave C a r m a c k D r H e n s h a w A v e Rodeo Ave Catherine Ct S i l v e r L a k e D r D e n a l i D r Jones Ave M i l l C r e e k D r C h u r c h i l l D r N e w p o r t D r Calistoga Dr C r a t e r L a k e D r Bell Ct L e g a c y L n S a n d y C o v e D r Willow Bend Dr C i u l l a L n Aloha Ln Hidden Creek Dr H a s t i n g s S t S h e l t e r i n g Oak C t R e b e c c a C t C a r p e r s C t Shadygrove Ct Bell Estates Dr L e l a n d C t W a l n u t s h i r e L n T a n d y C t S h a d y A c r e s C t C r i m s o n C t L a n g e l C t L a F o r c e C t D e a d E n d C t M e s a V e r d e C t M i d d l e C r e e k C t S a n t i a g o C t Clear Lake Dr B r e a n n a L n Lake Mead Ct A l m o n d G r oveCt Grayeagle Ct B u c k i n g h a m P lAG-80 VLDR VLDR-2.5 City of Chico P File:TPM14-0005042-770-032Assessor Parcel No: SupervisorialDistrict #2Request: ¬ A Tentative Parcel Map to subdivide 12.69 acres into four lots: 5.19 acres (Lot 1), 2.5 acres (Lot 2), 2.5 acres (Lot 3), and 2.5 acres (Lot 4). Hearing Date:Zoning:Very Low Density Residential, 2.5 Acre DensityApplicant/Owner:Brian Airehart (Applicant) / Robert and Leeanne Kromer (Owners) BUTTE COUNTY ZONING ADMINISTRATOR 550 0 550 1,100 1,650 2,200275Feet Project location This page left intentionally blank. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 4 of 49 ■ Evaluation of Environmental Impacts: 1) A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g., the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project-specific screening analysis). 2) All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as well as on-site, cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. 3) Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then, the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 4) "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less Than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross- referenced). 5) Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures, which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific conditions for the project. 6) Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g., general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. 7) Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. 8) This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whatever format is selected. 9) The explanation of each issue should identify: a) The significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b) The mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 5 of 49 ■ 4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 4.1 Aesthetic/Visual Resources: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b. Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c. Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d. Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? Setting: The project area is characterized as open pasture and agricultural lands situated in the rural valley region of Butte County, northwest from the City of Chico, approximately ¼ mile west from the city limits. Several low density single- family residential parcels with one-acre lot sizes are located to the south and east of the project site. Single-family residential lots and agricultural uses with five-acre lot sizes are located to the east, and large agricultural lots presently used as orchards are located to the north. The topography of the project area is gentle and flat, with elevations ranging from 163 feet to 168 feet above sea level. The level topography of the valley region contributes to an open and uniform visual character surrounded by orchards, small farmsteads, and residential uses. No natural waterways and canals are located within immediate vicinity. Natural vegetation in the area consists of annual grasslands and orchards. Conservation and Open Space Element Policies. 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-P18.1. The County shall designate scenic corridors based on careful consideration of the following factors: a. Relationship to the scenic highway system, including proximity to urban population centers, gateways, integration with other highways and scenic highways and access to major recreation areas. b. Safety characteristics, including road surface and alignment, shoulder width, traffic levels, number of intersections, access points, turnouts and rest areas. c. Scenic characteristics, including vista points, geologic resources, native plant and animal species, waterways, historic resources and agricultural, timber and recreation uses. d. Government policies, including public lands, eligibility for State scenic highway designation, and consistency with other Butte County General Plan 2030 elements. e. Economic impacts on properties affected by a scenic highway designation. COS-P18.2. To enhance safety on scenic highways, the County shall limit access, using existing access where feasible, and limit encroachment permits. COS-P18.3. The County shall require utility companies to choose the least conspicuous locations for distribution lines, so as to avoid impacts to scenic corridors where there is reasonable choice. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 6 of 49 ■ Butte County Zoning Code. Article 14 (Outdoor Lighting) sets minimum requirements for outdoor lighting in residential areas to reduce light trespass and glare, and to protect the health, property, and well-being of Butte County residents and visitors. All outdoor lighting shall be located, adequately shielded, and directed such that no direct light falls outside the property line, or into the public right-of-way. Lighting must be shielded in accordance with Dark Sky Society standards, and light sources must not be directly visible outside the property’s perimeter. Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact. Future development of the resultant parcels may include permitted and conditionally-permitted uses allowed within the VLDR-2.5 zoning designation, which may be visible from various vantage points from the valley and foothill regions. Permitted development on the resultant parcels would be consistent with the established visual character and density of the surrounding area. Due to the low-density of the project, as well as visual compatibility of permitted development with the surrounding area, placement of additional residences or the establishment of agricultural uses on the project site will not significantly interfere with the views of scenic vistas from adjacent residences and public right-of-ways. Therefore, the project would not significantly affect a scenic vista nor have a demonstrable negative aesthetic effect. b.) Less than significant impact. No scenic resources have been identified to be on the project site, or in the surrounding area. Additionally, the project site is not located adjacent to a state-designated or county- designated scenic highway. As a result, proposed improvements would not result in the damage or degradation to any scenic features on or near the project site. And, subsequent development of the resultant parcels is anticipated to be consistent with the character of the project site and surrounding area. c.) Less than significant impact. The residential uses and the proposed density of the resultant parcels would be consistent with the residential character and quality of the project site and surrounding area. d.) Less than significant impact. Outdoor lighting for safety and security could potentially be added to future structures on the resultant parcels. The proposed 2.5 acre lot sizes would help minimize ordinary nighttime lighting impacts to adjacent areas. Additionally, Article 14 of Butte County Zoning Code requires that all outdoor lighting in residential areas be located, adequately shielded, and directed such that no direct light falls outside the property perimeter, or into the public right-of-way. As a result, the proposed project would not create new sources of substantial lighting or glare that would generate a significant impact. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.2 Agriculture Resources: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b. Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act Contract? c. Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g))? Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 7 of 49 ■ Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document d. Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? e. Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? Setting: The project site is vacant land situated in the VLDR-2.5 zone district. The Land Use Element Map of the Butte County General Plan designates the project site as Very Low Density Residential (VLDR). This land use designation is primarily for single-family homes on lots sizes with a minimum parcel size of 2.5 acres. The VLDR zone also allows for limited agricultural uses including crop cultivation, animal grazing, private stables, animal services, as well as roadside stands for the sale of agricultural products grown on the property. Important Farmland To characterize the environmental baseline for agricultural resources, Important Farmland Maps produced by the California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) were reviewed. Important Farmland maps show categories of Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland, Farmland of Local Importance (if adopted by the county), Grazing Land, Urban and Built-up Land, Other Land, and Water. Prime Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance map categories are based on qualifying soil types, as determined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), as well as current land use. These map categories are defined by the Department of Conservation’s FMMP as follows: Prime Farmland: Land which has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for the production of crops. It has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields of crops when treated and managed, including water management, according to current farming methods. Farmland of Statewide Importance: Land that is similar to Prime Farmland but with minor shortcomings, such as greater slopes or less ability to hold and store moisture. Unique Farmland: Land of lesser quality soils used for the production of specific high economic value crops. It has the special combination of soil quality, location, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high quality or high yields of a specific crop when treated and managed according to current farming methods. It is usually irrigated, but may include non-irrigated orchards or vineyards as found in some climatic zones in California. Examples of crops include oranges, olives, avocados, rice, grapes, and cut flowers. Farmland of Local Importance: Land of importance to the local agricultural economy, as determined by each county’s board of supervisors and local advisory committees. Examples include dairies, dryland farming, aquaculture, and uncultivated areas with soils qualifying for Prime Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance. Butte County has not adopted a definition of Farmland of Local Importance. Grazing Land: Land on which the existing vegetation, whether grown naturally or through management, is suitable for grazing or browsing of livestock. Urban and Built-up Land: Land used for residential, industrial, commercial, construction, institutional, public administrative purpose, railroad yards, cemeteries, airports, golf courses, sanitary landfills, sewage treatment plants, water control structures, and other development purposes. Highways, railroads, and other transportation facilities are also included in this category. Other Land: Land not included in any other mapping category. Common examples include low density rural developments; brush, timber, wetland, and riparian areas not suitable for livestock grazing; confined livestock, poultry or aquaculture facilities; strip mines, borrow pits; and water bodies smaller than forty acres. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 8 of 49 ■ Vacant and nonagricultural land surrounded on all sides by urban development and greater than 40 acres is mapped as Other Land. Water: Water areas with an extent of at least 40 acres. Williamson Act The California Land Conservation Act of 1965, commonly known as the Williamson Act, was established based on numerous State legislative findings regarding the importance of agricultural lands in an urbanizing society. Policies emanating from those findings include those that discourage premature and unnecessary conversion of agricultural land to urban uses and discourage discontinuous urban development patterns, which unnecessarily increase the costs of community services to community residents. The Williamson Act authorizes each County to establish an agricultural preserve. Land that is within the agricultural preserve is eligible to be placed under a contract between the property owner and County that would restrict the use of the land to agriculture in exchange for a tax assessment that is based on the yearly production yield. The contracts have a 9-year term that is automatically renewed each year, unless the property owner or county requests a non-renewal or the contract is cancelled. The project site and surrounding areas are not encumbered by a Williamson Act contract. Butte County Code Section 24-12 (Agriculture Zones) Article 4 of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance describes land uses and development standards for lands zoned Agriculture (AG) and Agriculture Services (AS). The AG zone is intended “to support, protect, and maintain a viable, long-term agricultural sector in Butte County.” The AS zone is intended “to protect, maintain, promote, and enhance agriculture as a viable, long-term economic sector by accommodating agricultural uses or compatible commercial and light industrial uses that directly support agricultural activities within the county.” Article 4 also requires an Agricultural Maintenance Plan for any non-agricultural use requiring a Conditional Use Permit or Minor Use Permit on a parcel with existing agricultural operations; the Agricultural Maintenance Plan must identify specific measures to ensure that the proposed use does not adversely impact agricultural activities on the parcel. Butte County Code Section 24-81 (Agricultural Buffers) Article 17 of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance establishes a 300-foot buffer between lands zoned agriculture and new residential development. This ordinance applies to parcels where residential structures are to be developed in the following areas of the county: (1) all lands zoned Agriculture; (2) in other zones within 300 feet of the boundary of Agriculture zones; (3) areas inside and within 300 feet of sphere of influence boundaries for incorporated cities, where the boundary abuts parcels zoned Agriculture; and, (4) areas within 300 feet of a Williamson Act Contract. Exceptions to the 300-foot agricultural buffer setback requirement may be requested by the project applicant through an Unusual Circumstances Review application process. Butte County Resolution #08-166, as amended (Agricultural Buffer Guidelines) The Butte County Zoning Ordinance (Section 24-81 et seq.) requires a 300-foot buffer between agricultural and non- agricultural uses on agriculturally zoned lands. To implement this requirement, and to provide guidance regarding requests for a determination of unusual circumstances to modify the 300-foot agricultural buffer requirement, Butte County has prepared Agricultural/Residential Buffer Implementation Guidelines. The buffer must physically separate agricultural and residential uses to help minimize potential conflicts. The County may make a determination of unusual circumstances based on criteria outlined in the Guidelines, in which case the buffer may take other forms or be of a lesser distance. As shown on the Tentative Parcel Map, the proposed project includes a 300-foot agricultural buffer that will be established from the northwestern property line, pursuant to Section 24-81 et seq. of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance. Butte County Code (BCC) §24-56.1 - Residential Setback from Orchards and Vineyards On January 12, 2016, the Butte County Board of Supervisors adopted amendments to the Butte County General Plan and Zoning Ordinance to establish a setback requirement for new residential development adjacent to existing orchards and vineyards located in residential zones. Butte County Code (BCC) §24-56.1 provides as follows: 24-56.1 Residential Setback from Orchards and Vineyards A setback is established for residential development from existing orchards and vineyards that are located in residential zones in order to reduce interference and conflict with preexisting agricultural operations, while Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 9 of 49 ■ providing for the development potential allowed by residential zones. The residential setback from orchards and vineyards is subject to the following requirements (Refer to Article 17. Agricultural Buffers, for agricultural buffer setbacks required where a developing residentially zoned parcel is adjacent to a parcel zoned Agriculture): A. A setback between a new residence and an existing active orchard or vineyard shall be established as far away from the orchard or vineyard as practicable, taking into account adjacent agricultural uses and practices, provided it does not limit the allowed residential density permitted by the residential zone, and in no case is less than 25 feet. B. Any proposed land division adjacent to an existing active orchard or vineyard use shall apply for a Residential Setback Recommendation with the Development Services Department in accordance with this section. The Residential Setback Recommendation shall be reviewed by the Agricultural Commissioner, in consultation with Development Services to determine an appropriate setback width (pursuant to Subsection A.). The Residential Setback Recommendation shall become part of the application and reviewed by the hearing body. Public noticing shall include reference to the Residential Setback Recommendation and the residential setback’s recommended width. C. All building permits for residential development adjacent to existing orchards or vineyards shall be reviewed for compliance with the required residential setback. If no residential setback is shown on an applicable recorded parcel map or subdivision map, a review by the Zoning Administrator at a noticed public hearing shall be conducted to determine the appropriate setback pursuant to Subsection A. D. The residential setback shall be imposed from the property line (s) on the developing parcel and shown on the recorded parcel map or subdivision map or building permit site plan. E. The setback shall not apply to residential development adjacent to row crops or greenhouses and wholesale nurseries primarily engaged in growing crops, plants, vines or trees and their seeds. F. The setback shall not apply to backyard gardens and fruit and nut trees accessory to a residential use. G. The setback shall not apply to accessory structures as defined under Section 24‐156 (Accessory Uses and Structures) excepting guest houses, which must comply with the setback. H. The setback shall not apply to orchard or vineyard uses that start operations after a building permit is approved (this does not apply to an existing orchard or vineyard that is removed and replaced). I. If the orchard or vineyard use is discontinued (i.e., the land is developed with residential uses) the setback shall no longer be applicable. The Department of Development Services in conjunction with the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office is recommending a residential dwelling setback from the adjacent active orchard of 50-foot residential setback from the southwestern property line of the project site. If the project is approved, the Residential Setback Recommendation will be required to be shown of the recorded subdivision map. Butte County Right to Farm Ordinance Chapter 35 of the Butte County Municipal Code, also referred to as the Butte County Right to Farm Ordinance (Ord. No. 4092, 02-24-15), serves as a notification to owners, purchasers, residents, and users of property adjacent to agricultural operations of potential issues at the agriculture-urban interface. The Right to Farm Ordinance declares that properly conducted agricultural operations on agricultural land are not subject to nuisance claims, assuming the operation was not already on record as a nuisance when the operation began. Information about the Right to Farm Ordinance is provided by the County to residents with an annual tax bill and when an application is submitted for development on or adjacent to agricultural land. The Right to Farm Ordinance serves as a protection for agricultural uses that are located in nonagricultural General Plan land use designations and zoning districts. Impact Discussion: a.) No Impact. The project site is identified as containing lands classified as Other Land by the California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP). Areas surrounding the project site have been designated as Prime Farmland to the north, and Urban and Built-up Land to the east. The project site is not designated as Important Farmland in the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 10 of 49 ■ Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the conversion of Important Farmland to a non- agricultural use. b.) No impact. The project site is zoned primarily for residential uses. The VLDR zone also allows for agricultural uses including crop cultivation, animal grazing, private stables, and other, limited, agricultural- type uses. The proposed project would not result in a change to the current zoning designation of the property, and the project site would continue to allow for limited agricultural uses. The project site is not restricted by a Williamson Act contract. c.) No impact. The project site is not located in a timber resource zoning category such as Timber Mountain (TM), Timber Production (TPZ), or Resource Conservation (RC). The project site is also not classified as forest land, pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 12220(g), because the project site cannot support 10 percent native tree cover. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with, or cause the rezoning of, a timber resource zoning designation. d.) No impact. The project site is not classified as forest land, and therefore, the proposed project would not result in loss or conversion of forest land to a non-forest use. e.) No impact. The project site is identified as containing lands classified as Other Land by the California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP). Areas surrounding the project site have been designated as Prime Farmland to the north, Other Land to the west, and Urban and Built-up Land to the east. The GPEIR includes a programmatic analysis of agricultural land being converted to non-agricultural uses (GPEIR, page 4.2-9). It also contains a programmatic analysis of “other changes in the existing environment, which due to their location, or nature, could result in the conversion of farmlands of concern under CEQA to non-agricultural use.” The GPEIR recognizes that re-designation of land by the GP land use map (including the VLDR designation on the subject parcel) “could result in incompatible land uses next to farm uses or ranches, creating circumstances that impair the productivity of agricultural operation, and could eventually lead farmers to take their land out of production (GPEIR, page 4.2-15).” The premature conversion of adjacent farmlands could potentially occur from the increase in the number of residential dwellings developed in close proximately to existing agricultural uses. This close proximity may cause potential conflicts due to its incompatibility, causing restrictions on farming operations, restrictions on pesticide usage, increased risk of theft and vandalism, complaints, introduction of pests, litter, and pets from residential uses. General Plan 2030 includes a number of goals, policies, and actions to reduce conflicts between agricultural operations and urban uses that may potentially result in farmland conversion. Agriculture Element Policy AG-P5.3 requires a standard 300-foot buffer between residential development and lands zoned Agriculture; Policy AG-P5.3.2 requires a setback between residential development and existing active orchards or vineyards; Policy AG-P5.3.3 requires a standard buffer between residential development and lands encumbered by existing Williamson Act contracts; and, Policy AG-5.4 prohibits land divisions that separate a farmer’s home from the agricultural land. There are also a number of regulations to reduce conflicts between agricultural and urban uses. These regulations include Butte County Code Section 24-81 (Agricultural Buffers), Butte County Code Section 24-56.1 (Residential Setback from Orchards and Vineyards), and the County’s Right to Farm Ordinance. The proposed project includes a 300-foot agricultural buffer that will be established from the northwestern property line, pursuant to Section 24-81 et seq. of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance, and a 50-foot residential setback will be established from the western property line of the project site, pursuant to Section 24-56.1 of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance. The 50-foot residential setback is proposed along the portion of the western property line that does not include the proposed 60-foot right-of-way for a private access road. The right-of-way is 1,319 feet in length with an additional 40-foot at the end of the road to be established for a vehicle turn-around. Future residential dwellings constructed on the resultant parcels (along the right-of- way) would be setback an additional 20-feet, pursuant to Table 24-20-2 of the Butte County Zoning Ordinance, making the total setback from the western property line a minimum of 80 feet. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 11 of 49 ■ Implementation of the agricultural buffer, residential setbacks, proposed access road right-of-way, and implementation of existing Butte County policies and regulations identified above, would ensure that potential impacts to adjacent agricultural lands are less than significant. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.3 Air Quality: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b. Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? c. Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non- attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? d. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e. Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? Setting: Butte County is located within the Northern Sacramento Valley Air Basin (NSVAB). Summer conditions in the NSVAB are typically characterized by high temperatures and low humidity, with temperatures averaging from approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night. During the summer months, the prevailing winds are typically from the south. Winter conditions are characterized by occasional rainstorms interspersed with stagnant and sometimes foggy weather. The daytime average temperatures is in the low 50soF and nighttime temperatures average in the upper 30soF. During winter, winds predominate from the south, but north winds frequently occur. Rainfall occurs mainly from late October to early May, with an average of 17.2 inches per year, but this amount can vary significantly each year. Dispersion of local pollutant emissions are predominately affected by the prevailing wind patterns and inversions that often occur in the NSVAB. Within the NSVAB, two types of inversions can occur. During the summer months, sinking air forms a “lid” over the region and confines pollution to a shallow layer near the ground, which can contribute to photochemical smog problems. During winter nights, air near the ground cools while the air aloft remains warm, which can cause localized air pollution “hot spots” near emission sources (Butte County General Plan EIR; BCAQMD, 2014). Current Ambient Air Quality Federal and state standards have been established for six criteria pollutants, including ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulates less than 10 microns and 2.5 microns in diameter (PM10 and PM2.5), and lead (Pb). The Butte County Air Quality Management District (BCAQMD) is the primary agency responsible for assuring that the federal and state ambient air quality standards are attained and maintained in Butte County. The BCAQMD operates a network of ambient air monitoring stations throughout Butte County. Depending on whether the standards for a particular criteria air pollutant has been met or exceeded, the local air basin is classified as being in “attainment” or “nonattainment.” Based on the most recent monitoring data, Butte County is a nonattainment area for both state and federal ozone standards, the state and federal PM2.5 standards, and the state PM10 standards. Butte County is in attainment for the state and federal standards for sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide (BCAQMD, 2014). Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 12 of 49 ■ Air Quality Planning The California Clean Air Act requires air districts to prepare a plan for air quality improvement for criteria pollutants for which the District is in nonattainment. The BCAQMD’s Air Quality Attainment Plan was first adopted in 1991 and updated in 1994, 1997, 2000 and 2003. In 2006, the District collaborated with other air pollution control districts in the NSVAB to prepare a joint Air Quality Attainment Plan. That joint plan has been updated in 2006, 2009 and 2012 as the Northern Sacramento Valley Planning Area Triennial Air Quality Attainment Plan. The attainment plan is the basis for an air district’s functional strategy to meet federal and state ambient air quality standards. The BCAQMD, in its role of insuring that projects are properly evaluated for consistency with ambient air quality standards and the Northern Sacramento Valley Planning Area Triennial Air Quality Attainment Plan, have prepared guidelines to assist applicants and lead agencies in evaluating potential air quality and greenhouse impacts that may occur with a proposed project. Established with these guidelines are screening criteria to determine whether or not additional modeling for criteria air pollutants is necessary for a project. The screening criteria listed in Table 4.3-2 were created using CalEEMod version 2013.2.2 for the given land use types. To determine whether or not a proposed project meets the screening criteria, the size and metric for the land use type (units or square footage) should be compared with that of the proposed project. If a project meets the applicable screening criteria, then further quantification of criteria air pollutants is not necessary, and it may be assumed that the project would have a less than significant impact for criteria air pollutants. If a project exceeds the size provided by the screening criteria for a given land use type then additional modeling and quantification of criteria air pollutants should be performed (BCAQMD, 2014). Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact. A project is deemed inconsistent with air quality plans if it would result in population and/or employment growth that exceeds growth estimates included in the applicable air quality plan, which, in turn, would generate emission not accounted for in the applicable air quality plan emissions budget. Therefore, proposed projects need to be evaluated to determine whether they would generate Table 4.3-1 Butte County - State and Federal Ambient Air Quality Attainment Status POLLUTANT STATE DESIGNATION FEDERAL DESIGNATION 1-hour ozone Nonattainment - 8-hour ozone Nonattainment Nonattainment Carbon monoxide Attainment Attainment Nitrogen Dioxide Attainment Attainment Sulfur Dioxide Attainment Attainment 24-Hour PM10 Nonattainment Attainment 24-Hour PM2.5 No Standard Nonattainment Annual PM10 Attainment No Standard Annual PM2.5 Nonattainment Attainment Source: Butte County AQMD, 2014 Table 4.3-2 Screening Criteria for Criteria Air Pollutants LAND USE TYPE MAXIMUM SCREENING LEVELS FOR PROJECTS Single Family Unit Residential 30 units Multi-Family (Low Rise) Residential 75 units Commercial 15,000 square feet Educational 24,000 square feet Industrial 59,000 square feet Recreational 5,500 square feet Retail 11,000 square feet Source: Butte County AQMD, CEQA Air Quality Handbook, 2014 Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 13 of 49 ■ population and employment growth and, if so, whether that growth would exceed the growth rates included in the relevant air plans. The proposed project could result in minor population growth in the County with build-out. However, the proposed development density is consistent with the established zoning, and population growth to the area has already been anticipated for under Butte County General Plan 2030. Additionally, the total number of single-family residential units generated by the project is below the maximum screening criteria established in Table 4.3-2. Therefore, the project is not anticipated to cause significant impacts to regional air quality, or otherwise conflict with the basin’s air quality management plan, provided that best management practices for the control of fugitive dust during construction activities are employed. b.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. The proposed project has the potential to impact air quality primarily in two ways: (1) the project would generate mobile source emissions associated with future development on the resultant parcels, and (2) fugitive dust (particulate/PM10) and construction exhaust emissions would be generated during construction activities associated with proposed road improvements and future development on the resultant parcels. Mobile source emissions are produced from motor vehicles, and include tailpipe and evaporative emissions. Energy use associated with development may be caused by heating and cooling systems, lighting, applicant, water use and wastewater. No development is proposed with this project; however, future development of the resultant parcels has the potential to generate these direct and indirect emissions. Emissions generated during at build-out of the resultant parcels are not expected to be substantial, and would not significantly violate existing air quality standards, because only a limited amount development would occur over the project site. The limited amount of development to occur with the proposed project was compared to the screening criteria of Table 4.3-2, and deemed to have a less than significant impact to the environment. Construction-related emissions are generally created throughout the course of project implementation and parcel development, and would originate from construction equipment exhaust, employee vehicle exhaust, dust from grading the land, exposed soil eroded by wind, and ROGs from architectural coating and asphalt paving. Construction-related emissions would vary substantially depending on the level of activity, length of the construction period, specific construction operations, types of equipment, number of personnel, wind and precipitation conditions, and soil moisture content. Despite this variability in project site conditions, there are a number of feasible control measures that can be reasonably implemented to meaningfully reduce construction-related emissions to a less than significant level. These measures as well as other common air pollution control measures are recommended in Appendix C of BCAQMD’s CEQA Handbook (2014), and are to be implemented as Mitigation Measure #1, listed below. c.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. Based on the information provided in section b.), above, the proposed project would not result in the violation of any air quality standards or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation, except for potential fugitive dust emission during construction activities. Fugitive dust emissions generated during construction has the potential to contribute cumulatively to the region’s non-attainment of PM10 and PM2.5 emissions. Implementation of Mitigation Measure #1 would reduce potential cumulative fugitive dust emission impacts to a less than significant level. d.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. Several homes are located within ¼ mile of the project site. Construction activities would generate emissions of criteria pollutants, including suspended and inhalable particulate matter and equipment exhaust emissions. These emissions could expose nearby sensitive receptors to pollutant concentrations. Implementation of Mitigation Measure #1 would reduce impacts of construction-related fugitive dust emissions. Additionally, because impacts related to equipment exhaust emissions would not exceed the significance thresholds recommended by BCAPMD, and because construction activities of future development would likely be short in duration, impacts to sensitive receptors would be less than significant. e.) Less than significant impact. Future permitted uses on the resultant parcels would not create objectionable odors. However, future construction activities could include objectionable odors from tailpipe diesel emissions and from solvents in adhesives, paints, caulking materials, and new asphalt. Since odor impacts would be temporary and limited to the area adjacent to the construction operations, and because the project Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 14 of 49 ■ site is located in a rural area of the county, odors would not impact a substantial number of people for an extended period of time. Mitigation Measure #1 (Construction Air Emissions) The following best practice measures to reduce impacts to air quality shall be incorporated by the project applicant, subject property owners, or third-party contractors during construction activities on the project site. These measures are intended to reduce criteria air pollutants that may originate from the site during the course of land clearing and other construction operations. Diesel PM Exhaust from Construction Equipment and Commercial On-Road Vehicles Greater than 10,000 Pounds All on- and off-road equipment shall not idle for more than five minutes. Signs shall be posted in the designated queuing areas and/or job sites to remind drivers and operators of the five minute idling limit. Idling, staging and queuing of diesel equipment within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors is prohibited. All construction equipment shall be maintained in proper tune according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Equipment must be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition before the start of work. Install diesel particulate filters or implement other CARB-verified diesel emission control strategies. Shall not operate a diesel-fueled auxiliary power system (APS) to power a heater, air conditioner, or any ancillary equipment on that vehicle during sleeping or resting in a sleeper berth for greater than 5 minutes at any location when within 100 feet of a restricted areas. To the extent feasible, truck trips shall be scheduled during non-peak hours to reduce perk hour emissions. Operational TAC Emissions All mobile and stationary Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs) sources shall comply with applicable Airborne Toxic Control Measures (ATCMs) promulgated by the CARB throughout the life of the project (see http:www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/atcm/atcm.htm). Stationary sources shall comply with applicable District rules and regulations. Fugitive Dust Construction activities can generate fugitive dust that can be a nuisance to local residents and businesses near a construction site. Dust complaints could result in a violation of the District’s “Nuisance” and “Fugitive Dust” Rules 200 and 205, respectively. The following is a list of measures that may be required throughout the duration of the construction activities: Reduce the amount of the disturbed area where possible. Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne dust from leaving the site. An adequate water supply source must be identified. Increased watering frequency would be required whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph. Reclaimed (non-potable) water should be used whenever possible. All dirt stockpile areas should be sprayed daily as needed, covered, or a District approved alternative method will be used. Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved project revegetation and landscape plans should be implemented as soon as possible following completion of any soil disturbing activities. Exposed ground areas that will be reworked at dates greater than one month after initial grading should be sown with a fast-germinating non-invasive grass seed and watered until vegetation is established. All disturbed soil areas not subject to re-vegetation should be stabilized using approved chemical soil binders, jute netting, or other methods approved in advance by the Butte County Air Quality Management District. All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc. to be paved should be completed as soon as possible. In addition, building pads should be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil binders are used. Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 15 mph on any unpaved surface at the construction site. All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to be covered or should maintain at least two feet of freeboard (minimum vertical distance between top of load and top of trailer) in accordance with local regulations. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 15 of 49 ■ Install wheel washers where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto streets, or wash off trucks and equipment leaving the site. Sweep streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is carried onto adjacent paved roads. Water sweepers with reclaimed water should be used where feasible. Post a sign in prominent location visible to the public with the telephone numbers of the contractor and the Butte County Air Quality Management District - (530) 332-9400 for any questions or concerns about dust from the project. All fugitive dust mitigation measures required should be shown on grading and building plans. In addition, the contractor or builder should designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary, to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holidays and weekend period when work may not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to the District prior to land use clearance for map recordation and finished grading of the area. Please note that violations of District Regulations are enforceable under the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 42400, which provides for civil or criminal penalties of up to $25,000 per violation. Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans. Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods. Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site. Butte County Air Pollution Control District inspectors shall respond to nuisance complaints. 4.4 Biological Resources: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c. Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 or the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means)? d. Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish and wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources such as a tree preservation policy ordinance? Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 16 of 49 ■ Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? g. A reduction in the numbers, a restriction in the range, or an impact to the critical habitat of any unique, rare, threatened, or endangered species of animals? h. A reduction in the diversity or numbers of animals onsite (including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish or invertebrates)? i. A deterioration of existing fish or wildlife habitat (for foraging, breeding, roosting, nesting, etc.)? j. Introduction of barriers to movement of any resident or migratory fish or wildlife species? k. Introduction of any factors (light, fencing, noise, human presence and/or domestic animals) which could hinder the normal activities of wildlife? Setting: The project site is located in the valley region, situated west of the City of Chico. Both the Butte County General Plan, and from land cover data provided by the Butte County Association of Governments, in preparation of the upcoming Butte County Regional Conservation Plan identify this property as Agriculture. Agriculture The agricultural natural community is comprised of several land cover types including orchards and vineyards, rice, irrigated cropland, irrigated pasture, and non-native woodland. Agriculture occurs where the soils and topography are most suitable for production, which are generally the flat and well-drained areas located in the valley region of the County. Conversion of lands to an agricultural use has resulted in the removal of most of the historical native habitat. Agriculture natural community areas generally don’t support the wildlife compared with most native habitats; however, these areas continue to support abundant wildlife and provide essential breeding, foraging and roosting habitat for many resident and migrant wildlife species. Jurisdictional Waters of the United States, including Wetlands Waters of the United States (U.S.), including wetlands, are broadly defined to include navigable waterways, and tributaries of navigable waterways, and adjacent wetlands. Although definitions vary to some degree, wetlands are generally considered to be areas that are periodically or permanently inundated by surface water or groundwater, supporting vegetation adapted to life in saturated soil. Jurisdictional wetlands are vegetated areas that meet specific vegetation, soil, and hydrologic criteria defined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The USACE holds sole authority to determine the jurisdictional status of waters of the U.S., including wetlands. Jurisdictional wetlands and Waters of the U.S. include, but are not limited to, perennial and intermittent creeks and drainages, lakes, seeps, and springs; emergent marshes; riparian wetlands; and seasonal wetlands. Wetland and waters of the U.S. provide critical habitat components, such as nest sites and reliable source of water for a wide variety of wildlife species. No aquatic features on the project site were identified. No formal delineation of jurisdictional waters was performed for the project site; and any potential aquatic features of the project site are not expected to meet USACE jurisdictional criteria due to the limited inputs of water, and the project’s site distance from area waterways designated as Waters of the United States. Special-Status Species Many species of plants and animals within the State of California have low populations, limited distributions, or both. Such species may be considered “rare” and are vulnerable to extirpation as the state’s human population grows and the CNNDB Occurances 0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.20.15 Miles adobe-lily pallid bathoary bat silver-haired bat least Bell's vireo big-scale balsamroot steelhead - Central Valley DPS valley elderberry longhorn beetle adobe-lily vernal pool tadpole shrimp Butte County meadowfoam California linderiella burrowing owl burrowing owl Butte County meadowfoam Butte County meadowfoam City of Chico Copyright:© 2013 National Geographic Society, i-cubed Map created by:Butte CountyDevelopment Services Department7 County Center Drive, Oroville, Ca. 95965 TPM14-0005 (Airehart/Kromer)® Project Site 2 Mile Buffer This page left intentionally blank. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 17 of 49 ■ habitats these species occupy are converted to agricultural and urban uses. A sizable number of native species and animals have been formally designated as threatened or endangered under State and Federal endangered species legislation. Others have been designated as “Candidates” for such listing and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) have designated others as “Species of Special Concern”. The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) has developed its own lists of native plants considered rare, threatened or endangered. Collectively, these plants and animals are referred to as “special status species.” Various direct and indirect impacts to biological resources may result from the small amount of development enabled by the project, including the loss and/or alteration of existing undeveloped open space that may serve as habitat. Increased vehicle trips to and from the project site can result in wildlife mortality and disruption of movement patterns within and through the project vicinity. Disturbances such as predation by pets (e.g., cats and dogs) and human residents may also occur at the human/open space interface, while conversion of land from lower to higher density residential use can lead to a predominance of various urban-adapted wildlife species (e.g., coyotes, raccoons, ravens and blackbirds) that have been observed to displace more sensitive species. California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15065 requires a mandatory finding of significance for projects that have the potential to substantially degrade or reduce the habitat of a threatened or endangered species, and to fully disclose and mitigate impacts to special status resources. For the purposes of this Initial Study, the California Environmental Quality Act (Sections 21083 and 21087, Public Resources Code) defines mitigation as measure(s) that: Avoids the impact altogether by not taking a certain action or parts of an action. Minimizes impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action and its implementation. Rectifies the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the impacted environment. Reduces or eliminates the impact over time by preservation and maintenance operations during the life of the project. Compensates for the impact by replacing or providing substitute resources or environments. The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) was reviewed to determine if any special-status species have the potential to occur on the project site or its vicinity. Table 4.4-2 lists the regulatory status and habitat requirements for each special-status species identified within a two-mile radius of the project site. A map of all identified CNNDB special-status specie occurrences within a two-mile radius of the project site is provided in Figure __. Based on review of the CNNDB, a total of 7 special-status species are known to inhabit areas within the vicinity of the project site. Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact with mitigations incorporated. Review of the CNNDB database identified seven special-status species within two-miles of the project site. Of the seven total species, only the Western Burrowing owl has potential habitat within boundaries of the project site. Western Burrowing owl Table 4.4-1 Federal and State-Listed Species in the vicinity of the Project Site Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status State Status CNPS/DFG List Habitat Fritillaria pluriflora adobe-lily None None 1B.2 Chaparral, Woodland, Foothill Grasslands w/ clay or serpentine soils. Limnanthes floccosa ssp. Californica Butte County meadowfoam Endangered Endangered 1B.1 Grassland, Grassland w/ Vernal Pool Swale Complexes, Wetlands Desmocerus californicus dimorphus valley elderberry longhorn beetle Threatened None Riparian w/ elderberry plants Linderiella occidentalis California fairy shrimp SSC Grassland w/ Vernal Pool Complexes, Vernal Pool, Altered Vernal Pool Lepidurus packardi vernal pool tadpole shrimp Endangered None Grassland w/ Vernal Pool Complexes, Vernal Pool, Altered Vernal Pool Athene cunicularia western burrowing owl None None SSC Varied Oncorhynchus Mykiss Central Valley Steelhead Threatened None Aquatic PLANTS INVERTEBRATES Source: California Natural Diversity Database Version 3.1.0 / Butte Regional Conservation Plan, December 2015 Draft BIRDS FISH Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 18 of 49 ■ The western burrowing owl is listed as a species of special concern in the state of California. They are distributed throughout the western United States from Minnesota to the Pacifica Coast, and into Canada and Mexico. In California, burrowing owls are distributed along the south and southeastern desert areas, throughout the Central Valley, patchy areas around the Bay Area and southern coast lines in to the north eastern high desert areas. The western burrowing owls is a small, slender owl with long tarsi, no ear tufts and has a light to chocolate brown coloration with variable white spots. Suitable habitat includes open plains, grasslands, desert scrub and mima mound topography. Burrowing owls primarily nest in previously made mammal burrows, but will also use rock crevices and other dry natural and man-made cavities that provide cover from predators. Current threats facing the western burrowing owl include habitat loss and fragmentation, decline in burrowing rodents, and the spread of invasive plant species. The agriculture habitat on the project site provides suitable habitat for a variety of ground nesting bird species, including the western burrowing owl. No western burrowing owls were observed within the project site during field surveys. However, protocol level burrowing owl surveys were not performed. Due to the potential for ground nesting bird species protected under the MBTA to occur within the project site, any future proposed vegetation removal or ground disturbance should be conducted between September 1 and February 28 (i.e. the non-breeding season), or after all nestlings have fledged from active nests. If vegetation removal or ground disturbance occurs during the breeding season (i.e. March 1 to August 31) for bird species protected by the MBTA and CFGC or for the western burrowing owl, then a qualified biologist should conduct a survey to locate any nests of these protected bird species in the project site and establish a no disturbance buffer zone around the nest. b.) No impact. The project site is not identified as containing riparian or other sensitive natural communities. c.) No impact. No aquatic features, including wetlands, have been identified within, or in the vicinity of the project site. d.) No impact. Wildlife movement corridors are routes frequently utilized by wildlife that provide shelter and sufficient food supplies to support wildlife species during migration. Movement corridors generally consist of riparian, woodlands, or forested habitats that span contiguous acres of undisturbed habitat. Wildlife movement corridors are an important element of resident species home ranges, including deer and coyote. The project site is not located within the Butte County migratory deer corridors. Further, no major migratory routes or corridors have been designated through the project site, and the existing developed components of the project area (i.e. roads, fenced parcels, and dense residential development) preclude use of the area as a migratory wildlife corridor for large mammals. Absent official designation of wildlife migratory routes or corridors, the site may still be capable of facilitating home range and dispersal movement of resident wildlife species, including birds, small mammals and other wildlife. e.) Less than significant impact. A limited amount of trees are located on the project site. Oak trees located on the project site are generally found to be immature, and less than 5 inches in diameter. Future development on the resultant parcels may necessitate removal of some trees. However, due to the limited number of trees on the project site, and the young age of oak trees, future development would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources. f.) No impact. The Butte Regional Conservation Plan (BRCP) is a joint Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP)/National Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) that is currently being prepared for the western half of the Butte County, and is scheduled to be completed in 2016. The project site is located within the proposed plan area of the BRCP. After the BRCP is adopted, individual projects that occur in the BRCP planning area would need to be coordinated with the Butte County Association of Governments to ensure that the project does not conflict with the BRCP. As the plan has not been adopted, the proposed project will not conflict, nor interfere with, the attainment of the goals of the proposed plan. Regardless, the small scale of development generated by the proposed project would not be expected to have significant impacts upon sensitive biological resources that would require mitigation under the future habitat conservation plan. g.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.4(a) – Biological Resources. Due to the limited development potential of the proposed project, as well as the minor amount of disturbance associated with the placement of a new development, less than significant impacts to critical habitats on the project site are anticipated. h.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.4(a) – Biological Resources. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 19 of 49 ■ i.) Less than significant impact. The project site does not contain native waterways containing fish and wildlife habitat. Potential development of the resultant parcels are not expected to result in a significant deterioration of existing fish or wildlife habitat or introduce barriers to movement of any resident or migratory fish or wildlife species because of its small scale. j.) Less than significant impact. Introduction of new lighting, fencing, noise, human presence and/or domestic animals are not expected to hinder the normal activities of wildlife living in and passing through the project site due to the relative low density of the resulting project parcels and the proximate low-density and undeveloped open space in the vicinity of the project. k.) Less than significant impact. This project could result in the development of residential units that would introduce additional factors such as lighting, noise, human presence and domestic animals. The project site, and the surrounding area, already includes these factors in a low-density setting. The proposed project is consistent with the land use and density established for this area, and the addition of new single-family residences are not anticipated to significantly hinder normal activities of wildlife. Mitigation Measure #2 (Migratory Birds-Western Burrowing Owl) If project construction activities occur during the nesting season for birds protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Department Fish & Game Code (CDFC) (approximately March 1 – August 31), the project proponent shall retain a qualified biologist to perform preconstruction surveys for nesting bird species. Surveys to identify active bird nests shall be conducted within and 250 feet around the footprint of proposed construction. At least two surveys shall be conducted no more than 15 days prior to the initiation of construction activities. Each survey shall be separated by 5 days. In the event that nesting raptors or birds protected by CDFC and MBTA are found in or within the footprint of proposed construction, the project proponent shall: 1. Locate and map the location of the nest site; 2. Establish a 250 feet no-disturbance buffer around all active nests; in the event bald eagles are found nesting in the survey area, a 1,000 foot no disturbance buffer shall be established; 3. Within 2 working days of the surveys, prepare a report and submit to the County. The report will include the results of surveys, location(s) of nests, and location of no disturbance buffers; 4. On-going weekly surveys shall be conducted to ensure that the no disturbance buffer is maintained; 5. Construction can resume when a qualified biologist has confirmed that the nest is no longer active. Plan Requirements: Perform protocol-level surveys for migratory birds protected by the California Department Fish & Game Code and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This measure shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be adhered to prior to and during construction activities planned to occur during nesting seasons for CDFC and MBTA species (between March 1 and August 31). Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Department of Development Services shall ensure the condition is met at the time of construction activities. 4.5 Cultural Resources: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in §15064.5? b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5? c. Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d. Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 20 of 49 ■ Setting: Cultural resources include prehistoric and historic period archaeological sites; historical features, such as rock walls, water ditches and flumes, and cemeteries; and architectural features. Cultural resources consist of any human-made site, object (i.e., artifact), or feature that defines and illuminates our past. Often such sites are found in foothill areas, areas with high bluffs, rock outcroppings, areas overlooking deer migratory corridors, or near bodies of water. Although this area is not located within one of these areas, there is still the chance that cultural resources could be located on site. A record search for existing archeological sites and surveys on the project site, and within one mile, was conducted through the Northeast Information Center of the California Historical Resources Information System in July 2014. The search did not reveal the existence of any prehistoric or historic resources on the project site. But, it was noted that there is one prehistoric site located within one-mile of the project site. The identified prehistoric site consisted of human bones, graves, mortars, and pestles that may have been utilized by the Konkow Maidu populations, which were known to be located in the region. Records indicate that a portion of the project area has been previously surveyed by a professional archaeologist in 1977. Impact Discussion: a-d.) Less than significant impact with mitigations incorporated. Historic use of the project site for agriculture has resulted in ground-disturbing activities that likely destroyed any cultural resources that may have been located on the surface. Future grading and other soil disturbance activities resulting from the development of the project site has the potential to uncover historic or prehistoric cultural resources located below the surface. To prevent impacts to the resources that may be uncovered during development activities on the project site, Mitigation Measure #3, below, is recommended. Mitigation Measure #3 (Cultural Resources) Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the Parcel Map or on an additional map sheet that states: “Should grading activities reveal the presence of prehistoric or historic cultural resources (i.e. artifact concentrations, including arrowheads and other stone tools or chipping debris, cans glass, etc.; structural remains; human skeletal remains) work within 50 feet of the find shall immediately cease until a qualified professional archaeologist can be consulted to evaluate the find and implement appropriate mitigation procedures. Should human skeletal remains be encountered, State law requires immediate notification of the County Coroner ((530) 538-6579). Should the County Coroner determine that the remains are in an archaeological context, the Native American Heritage Commission in Sacramento shall be notified immediately, pursuant to State Law, to arrange for Native American participation in determining the disposition of such remains.” The provisions of this note shall be followed during construction of all subdivision improvements, including land clearing, road construction, utility installation, and building site development. Plan Requirements: This note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet and shall be shown on all site development and building plans. Timing: This measure shall be implemented during all site preparation and construction activities. Monitoring: The Department of Development Services and/or Public Works Department shall ensure the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Should cultural resources be discovered, the landowner shall notify the Planning Division and a professional archaeologist. The Planning Division shall coordinate with the developer and appropriate authorities to avoid damage to cultural resources and determine appropriate action. State law requires the reporting of any human remains. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 21 of 49 ■ 4.6 Geologic Processes: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: 1. Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. 2. Strong seismic ground shaking? 3. Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? 4. Landslides? b. Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? c. Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d. Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1- B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e. Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal system where sewers are not available for the disposal or waste water? Setting: Geologic Hazards Expansive Soils Expansive soils possess a “shrink-swell” behavior. Shrink-swell is the cyclic change in volume (expansion and contraction) that occurs in fine-grained clay sediments from the process of wetting and drying. Structural damage may occur over a long period of time, usually the result of inadequate soil and foundation engineering or the placement of structures directly on expansive soils. The Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan identifies the project site as having a “Low” potential of expansive soils. Soil Erosion Erosion is the wearing away of soil and rock by processes such as wind and precipitation runoff. Soils containing high amounts of silt or clay can be easily erodible, while sandy soils are less susceptible. Excessive soil erosion can eventually lead to damage of building foundations and roadways. Typically, soil erosion potential is reduced once the soil is graded and covered with gravel, concrete, structures, asphalt, or a vegetative cover. The Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan identifies the project site as having a “Slight” potential for soil erosion. Landslides Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 22 of 49 ■ A landslide is the sliding of a mass of loosened rock and/or soil down a hillside or slope. Some of the natural causes of this instability are earthquakes, weak soils, erosion, heavy rainfall and fire. Human activities such as poor grading that undercuts steep slopes or overloads them will fill; excessive irrigation and removal of vegetation can also contribute to landslides. Most landslides in Butte County occur on slopes greater than 15 percent, and most new landslides occur in areas that have experience previous landslides. The areas of highest landslide potential are in the mountainous central area of the county where well-developed soils overlay impervious bedrock on steep slopes. The remaining areas of Butte County has moderate to low landslide potential. The areas of lowest landslide potential are the flat lands of the Sacramento Valley. The Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan identifies the project site as having “Low” to “No” landslide potential. Seismic Hazards Surface Fault Rupture Seismically induced ground rupture is defined as the physical displacement of surface deposits in response to movement on the fault place. The magnitude, sense, and nature of fault rupture can vary for different faults or event along different strands of the same fault. Ground rupture is considered more likely along active faults. The Cleveland Hills fault is the only fault located within Butte County that has been identified as an active fault pursuant to the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones Act. This fault was responsible for the 1975 Oroville earthquake, which had a Richter magnitude of 5.7 and produced surface displacement along approximately 2.2 miles of the fault. Other active and potentially active faults are located in the region. However, because there are no known active faults underlying or adjacent to the project site, the likelihood of surface fault rupture is very low and would not be a design consideration. Ground Shaking Ground shaking at the project site could occur due to earthquakes on the regions active faults. However, ground motions attenuate with distance from the causative fault, as well as the local geologic and soil conditions. The Seismic Hazards Mapping Program of the California Geological Survey categorizes all of Butte County as a “seismic hazard zone” since the entire County is subject to earthquakes of Modified Mercalli Intensity scale VIII. The Oroville earthquake of 1975 is the only earthquake of this intensity recorded in Butte County. This earthquake resulted in structural damage, partial destruction of some buildings, fires and numerous injuries. Though, it is accepted that earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 or 6.5 are possible anywhere in Butte County, the county is generally considered to be an area of low seismic activity. Liquefaction Liquefaction is a phenomenon whereby unconsolidated and/or near saturated soils lose cohesion and are converted to a fluid state as a result of sever vibratory motion. The relatively rapid loss of soil shear strength during strong earthquake shaking results in the temporary fluid-like behavior of the soil. Soil liquefaction causes ground failure that can damage roads, pipelines, underground cables, and building with shallow foundations. Liquefaction can occur in areas characterized by water-saturated, cohesionless, granular materials at depths less than 50 feet. Due to the relatively low potential for strong ground motions and a general lack of significant deposits of saturated loose soils, such as alluvium, the liquefaction potential, if any, can be addressed in the design of future structures during the building permit review process. Seiches A seiche is a periodic oscillation of a body of water such as a reservoir, river, lake, harbor, or bay resulting from seismic shaking or other causes such as landslides into a body of water. The period of the oscillation varies depending on the side of the body of water and may be several minutes to several hours. Depending on the magnitude of the oscillations, seiches can cause considerable damage to dams, levees and shoreline facilities. Seiches have not been recorded in any of the reservoirs in Butte County that are within the jurisdiction of the California Division of Dam Safety. However, the potential for seiches does exist in Butte County, either from landslides or from stronger earthquakes that have been experienced in historical times. Impact Discussion: a1.) Less than significant impact. There are no known active faults underlying, or adjacent to, the project site. The Cleveland Hill fault is located approximately 30± miles southeast of the project site. Because the nearest active fault is located a considerable distance from the project site, the likelihood of a surface rupture at the project site is very low, and would not be a design consideration. a2.) Less than significant impact. Ground shaking at the project site could occur due to the earthquake potential of the regions active faults. However, active faults are relatively distant from the project site. As a result, Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 23 of 49 ■ ground shaking due to seismic events is expected to have low to moderate intensities at the project site. Future residential development on the resultant parcels would be subject to the California Building Code (CBC). The CBC would provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare by regulating the controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use and occupancy, location, and maintenance of buildings and structures within Butte County. Among the provisions of the CBC are building design criteria for earthquake conditions in Butte County. Adherence to the CBC during building construction would ensure that potential impacts are less than significant. a3.) Less than significant impact. The project site is identified as being located within an area considered “Generally Moderate” in respect to liquefaction potential. The California Building Code (CBC) regulates the construction of structures, which may be constructed with approval of the proposed project. Adherence to CBC standards at the time of development of the resultant parcels would ensure that any impacts from an unstable geologic unit or soil are less than significant. a4.) Less than significant impact. The project area is primarily level with 0-2% slopes. As a result, the landslide potential for the project site and surrounding area is low. Though, the potential for landslides are generally low, shallow slope failures can occur in virtually any sloping terrain during construction activities. Avoidance of potentially sensitive slopes and/or implementation of appropriate engineering and construction measures at the time of development would avoid or reduce potential impacts of landslides to a less than significant level. b.) Less than significant impact. Surface soil erosion and loss of topsoil has the potential to occur from disturbances associated with the construction-related activities. Construction activities could also result in soil compaction and wind erosion effects that could adversely affect soils and reduce the revegetation potential at the construction site and staging areas. During construction-related activities, specific erosion control and surface water protection methods for each construction activity would be implemented on the project site. The type and number of measures implemented would be based upon location-specific attributes (i.e., slope, soil type, weather conditions). These control and protection measures, or BMPs, are standard in the construction industry and are commonly used to minimize soil erosion and water quality degradation. Additionally, future construction activities may be subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Construction Activities Storm Water permit program if one acre or more of land is disturbed. Construction activities that result in a land disturbance of less than one acre, but which are part of a larger common plan of development, also require a permit. This program requires implementation of erosion control measures during and immediately after construction that are designed to avoid significant erosion during the construction period. In addition, the project operation would be subject to State Water Resources Control Board requirements for the preparation and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to control pollution in stormwater runoff from the project site, including excessive erosion and sedimentation. The SWPPP, if required, must be obtained prior to any soil disturbance activities. Implementation of standard erosion control BMP’s during future construction-related activities, together with adherence to State requirements regarding grading activities, would ensure that potential erosion impacts are less than significant. c.) Less than significant impact. Destabilization of natural or constructed slopes could occur as a result of future construction activities. Excavations, grading, and fill operations associated with providing access to the resultant parcels and during development could alter existing slope profiles making them unstable as a result of over-excavation of slope material, steepening of the slope, or increased loading. Standard engineering design features and construction procedures would be implemented to maintain stable slopes and excavations during construction, reducing impacts of unstable slopes to a less than significant level. d.) Less than significant impact. Expansive soils can cause structural damage particularly when concrete structures are in direct contact with the soils. Appropriate design features to address expansive soils may include excavation of potentially problematic soils during construction and replacement with engineered backfill, ground-treatment processes, direction of surface water and drainage away from foundation soils, and the use of deep foundations such as piers or piles. Implementation of these standard engineering methods would ensure that impacts associated with expansive soils would remain less than significant. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 24 of 49 ■ e.) Less than significant impact. Wastewater disposal on the project site would be handled by new, individual, on- site septic systems. General Plan 2030 includes a number of policies in the Water Resources Element and the Public Facilities Services Element both to address existing septic systems in areas with poor soils and to ensure the safety of future septic systems. To ensure the safety of new septic systems, Policy PUB-P13.2 requires new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater system. Similarly, Policy PUB-P13.3 requires applicants of projects that will rely on on-site wastewater systems to provide detailed plans demonstrating that the system will be adequate to serve the project. Lastly, Policy PUB- P12.2 requires on-site wastewater treatment and disposal systems in the Chico area to continue to be regulated according to requirements in the Chico Urban Area Nitrate Compliance Plan (Butte County General Plan 2030 EIR). The applicant completed a pre-application review with Butte County Department of Environmental Health, in accordance with Chapter 19 of Butte County Code (On-Site Wastewater Systems). As part of the review, an initial septic location on the resultant parcels were evaluated and determined to have adequate soil conditions to allow for future development of an on-site wastewater system. Future development requiring wastewater disposal is required to receive an On-Site Wastewater System Construction Permit from Butte County Environmental Health Division. Application for a Construction Permit will include detailed plans of the proposed wastewater system, prepared by a Certified Installer or Certified Designer, which will demonstrate compliance with County regulations and the County’s On-Site Wastewater Manual, and to ensure a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater system. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.7 Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? b. Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? Setting: The earth’s atmosphere naturally contains a number of gases, including (but not limited to) carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), which are collectively referred to as greenhouse gases (GHGs). GHG emissions are generally numerically depicted (when applicable) as carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e). CO2e represents CO2 plus the additional warming potential from CH4 and N2O. The common unit of measurement for carbon dioxide equivalents is in metric tons (MTCO2e). These gases trap some amount of solar radiation and the earth’s own radiation, preventing it from passing through earth’s atmosphere and into space. GHG are vital to life on earth; without them, earth would be an icy planet. For example, CO2 is an element that is essential to the cycle of life. In general, CH4 and N2O have 21 and 310 times the warming potential of CO2, respectively. Human-made emissions of GHG occur through the combustion of fuels, as well as a variety of other sources. Increasing GHG concentrations are believed to be warming the planet. As the average temperature of the earth increase, weather may be affected, including changes in precipitation patterns, accumulation of snow pack, and intensity and duration of spring snowmelt. Climate zones may change, affecting the ecology and biological resources of a region. There may also be changes in fire hazards due to the changes in precipitation and climate zones. While scientists have established a connection between increasing GHG concentrations and increasing average temperatures, important scientific questions remain about how much warming would occur, how fast it would occur, and how the warming would affect the rest of the climate system. At this point, scientific efforts are unable to quantify the degree to which human activity impacts climate change. The phenomenon is worldwide, yet it is expected that there would Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 25 of 49 ■ be substantial regional and local variability in climate changes. It is not possible with today’s science to determine the effects of global climate change in a specific locale, or whether the effect of one aspect of climate change may be counteracted by another aspect of climate change, or exacerbated by it. Section 15183.5(b) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations states that a GHG Reduction Plan, or a Climate Action Plan, may be used for tiering and streamlining the analysis of GHG emissions in subsequent CEQA project evaluation provided that the CAP does the following: 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; 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; and F. Be adopted in a public process following environmental review. A 2006 baseline GHG emission inventory was prepared for unincorporated Butte County. The inventory identified the sources and the amount of GHG emissions produced in the county. Within Butte County, the leading contributors of GHG emissions are agriculture (43%), transportation (29%), and residential energy (17%). A Climate Action Plan (CAP) was adopted by Butte County on February 25, 2014. The CAP provides a framework for the County to reduce GHG emissions while simplifying the review process for new development. Measures and actions identified in the CAP lay the groundwork to achieve the adopted General Plan goals related to climate change, including reducing GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. In an effort to implement the measures of the CAP, a development checklist was created to evaluate a new projects consistency with the CAP, and to identify which GHG emission reduction measures would be implemented with project approval. The CAP development checklist identified three reduction measures applicable to the proposed project. These measures include expansion of renewable energy systems for new residential development by prewiring future development for photovoltaic systems; reduction of construction equipment idling time; and, installation of electric vehicle charging outlets in the garage or the exterior of the home (See Attachment A). Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. The proposed project is a minor subdivision that would contribute to the existing greenhouse gas inventory for Butte County through the creation of parcels for future residential development. Residential development would generate direct emissions through the consumption of electricity, natural gas, and propane, as well as from fuel usage for landscaping equipment. Development would also generate additional vehicle trips to and from the residence. Additionally, construction activities of future development would also create greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from the use of heavy equipment. To reduce the anticipated increase in of GHG emissions that would ultimately be created by the proposed project, GHG reduction measures from the Butte County Climate Action Plan were identified through CAP development checklist review. Implementation of the following mitigation measure would ensure the project’s consistency with the CAP and that impacts from GHG emissions are less than significant. b.) No Impact. The Butte County General Plan and Butte County Climate Action Plan establish numerous policies relative to greenhouse gases. The proposed subdivision would not generate greenhouse gas emissions; however, future development of the resultant parcels would increase GHG emissions, although on a limited scale. Due to the limited development potential of the project site, the anticipated increase in emissions would not conflict with the applicable with policies adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 26 of 49 ■ Mitigation Measure #4 (Greenhouse Gas Emissions): Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet that states: To the extent feasible, the developer shall implement the following measures at the time of development to offset the anticipated contribution of greenhouse gas emissions from residential development: Support expansion of renewable energy systems o Prewire all new residential development to support photovoltaic system installation. Support efficiency in vehicles and landscaping equipment o Install electrical vehicle outlets on external walls or in garages in all new residential development. Improve fuel efficiency of equipment during construction-related activities o Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the time of idling to no more than 3 minute. o Use clean or alternative fuel equipment Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans. Timing: Shall be implemented prior to issuance of building permits for residential development. Construction-related measures shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods. Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Planning Division will ensure that future residential development includes the applicable measures during Building Permit review. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site. 4.8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Create a significant hazard to the public or the environmental through the routine transport use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b. Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one- quarter mile of an existing or proposed schools? d. Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites complied pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? e. For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 27 of 49 ■ Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document f. For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g. Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h. Expose people or structures to a significant risk or loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? Settings Airports Air transportation in Butte County is served by a number of private and public airfields and heliports serving general aviation and agricultural users. There are four major aviation facilities in Butte County that serve the general public. The Chico Municipal Airport is the nearest general aviation airport to the project site. The airport is located approximately 2.5 miles northeast from the project site, placing the project site within Airport Land Use Compatibility Zone D for the airport. The airport is publicly owned and operated. Facilities include a 6,724 foot long and 150 foot wide runway, and a separate 3,005 long runway, both of which handle nearly 70,000 aircraft takeoffs and landings each year. The airport has an airport traffic control tower and a limited commuter airline services. The airport is also a major fire attack aircraft base during area wildfires. Wildland Fire Conditions The combination of highly flammable fuel, long dry summers and steep slopes creates a natural hazard of wildland fires in many areas of Butte County. Wildland fires can result in death, injury, economic losses, and a large public investment in firefighting efforts. Woodland and other natural vegetation can also be destroyed during wildfires, resulting in the loss of timber, wildlife habitat, scenic quality, and recreation. Areas in the county that are particularly susceptible to wildland fires largely contain dense vegetation and steep slopes, which aide in the spread of fire. These areas have been designated as Fire Hazard Severity Zones by the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), and generally include the foothill and mountainous regions of Butte County. Fire protection services for unincorporated Butte County are generally provided by the Butte County Fire Department (BCFD) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire), with CalFire having fiscal responsibility for preventing and suppressing wildfires. Due to the heightened risk of wildfires and the increased potential for damage or loss in certain areas of the county, CalFire has designated these areas as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). Development within SRAs must comply with special building requirements, and are also regulated by Public Resources Code 4290 and 4291, which establish requirements for maintenance of defensible space and vegetation management. According to the Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan, the project site is not located in a Fire Hazard Severity Zone due to the project site consisting of level slopes and grassland. The project site is also not located in the SRA area. Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact. Limited quantities of miscellaneous hazardous substances, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, hydraulic fluid, solvents, oils, etc. would be used to maintain vehicles and motorized equipment during construction-related activities. Accidental spill of any of these substances could impact water and/or groundwater quality. Depending on the relative hazard of the material, if a spill were to occur of significant quantity, the accidental release could pose a hazard to construction workers, the public, as well as the environment. Construction personal who are experienced in containing accidental releases of hazardous materials will likely be present to contain and treat affected areas in the event a spill occurs. If a larger spill were to occur, construction personal would generally be on-hand to contact the appropriate agencies. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 28 of 49 ■ It is not anticipated that large quantities of hazardous materials would be permanently stored or used within the project site. However, if large quantities are stored at the project site, the owner would be required to obtain a Hazardous Materials Business Plan. It is more likely that only small quantities of publicly-available hazardous materials (e.g., paint, maintenance supplies) may be routinely used within the project site for residential or agricultural maintenance and cleaning. However, these materials would not be used in sufficient strength or quantity to create a substantial risk of fire or explosion, or otherwise pose a substantial risk to human or environmental health. b.) Less than significant impact. It’s not anticipated that construction or operation of future residential or agricultural development would create a significant hazard to the environment or to the public due to the accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment. Accidental release of hazardous materials routinely used during construction activities are addressed in section a.), above. c.) No impact. No existing or proposed schools have been identified within one-quarter mile of the project site. d.) No impact. A review of regulatory agency databases, which included lists of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to California Government Code Section 65962.5, did not identify contamination site as being located within, or in the vicinity of, the project site. e.) Less than significant impact. The Chico Municipal Airport is located 2.5 miles northeast from the project site, placing the project site within the Airport Land Use Compatibility Zone D. Compatibility Zone D for the Chico Municipal Airport is defined as the outer boundary of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 77 conical zone limits, subjecting lands to reviews to ensure that objects and other land uses do not affect the navigable airspace of the airport. Uses prohibited within Zone D include any hazards to the flight of the aircraft such as physical, visual and electronic forms of interference, and land uses which may cause the attraction of birds to increase. Conditions to development within Zone D include establishment of an avigation easement dedication with acknowledgement of airport proximity and review of objects greater than 100 feet in height. Approval of the proposed project will be subject to implementing the requirements of the Butte County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan to ensure airport operations due not affect persons residing on the project site, or that future land uses on the project site do not adversely affect airport and aircraft operations. f.) No impact. No known private airstrips have been identified within two miles of the project site. As a result, no safety hazards associated with airport operations are anticipated to affect people working or residing within the project site. g.) No impact. The proposed project does not include any actions that physically interfere with any emergency response or emergency evacuation plans. Development of the resultant parcels would add a small amount of trips onto the area roadways; however, area roadways and intersections would continue to operate at an acceptable level of service. In the event future construction activities require work to be performed in the roadway, appropriate traffic control plans would be prepared in conjunction with a Butte County Encroachment Permit. h.) Less than significant impact. The project site is not located in a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a State Responsibility Area. As a result, existing and subsequent development on the resultant parcels, as well as its residents, would not be exposed to a significant wildland fire risk. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.9 Hydrology and Water Quality: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 29 of 49 ■ Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document b. Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of preexisting nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? d. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? e. Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f. Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g. Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped by Federal Flood Hazard Boundary, Flood Insurance Rate Map, or other flood hazard delineation map? h. Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? i. Expose people or structures to a significant risk or loss, injury, or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j. Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? Setting: Groundwater Basin The project site is located in the Vina Subbasin. The Vina Subbasin encompasses approximately 88,100 acres in the northern valley area of Butte County and comprises the portion of the Sacramento Valley groundwater basin bounded on the west by the Sacramento River, on the north by Deer Creek, on the east by the foothills and on the south by Big Chico Creek. The aquifer system is comprised of continental deposits of Tertiary to later Quaternary age. The Quaternary deposits include Holocene stream channel deposits and Pleistocene Modesto Formation deposits, located along most stream and river channels, and alluvial fan deposits. The Tertiary deposits include the Tuscan Formation (CDWR, February 2004). Groundwater level monitoring in the Sacramento Valley portion of Butte County is currently being conducted by a number of different private and public agencies. Historically, the DWR has maintained the most comprehensive, long-term groundwater level monitoring grid, with from 50 to 180 different wells monitored over the last 50 years in the Sacramento Valley portion of Butte County. Since 1997, Butte County and DWR have coordinated water level monitoring efforts. As part of a groundwater inventory analysis prepared for Butte County, the portion of the Vina Subbasin located within Butte County was evaluated for seasonal and long-term changes in groundwater levels for unconfined and confined aquifer Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 30 of 49 ■ systems. Long-term comparisons of spring to spring groundwater levels in the northern part of Butte County shows a decline as a result of the 1976-77 and 1987-94 droughts, followed by a recovery of groundwater levels to pre-drought conditions (Butte County, 2001). Evaluation of groundwater level data at the northern edge of the California Water Service area (just north of Chico) shows an average seasonal fluctuation in groundwater levels of approximately 10 feet during years of normal precipitation. Long- term comparison of spring to spring groundwater levels shows a decline in levels associated with the above drought periods with recovery to pre-drought conditions of the early 1970’s. Further long-term comparison of spring to spring groundwater levels indicates a 10- to 15- foot decline in groundwater levels since the 1950’s. Areas unaffected by municipal water use reflect the natural groundwater table distribution and direction of movement. Year-round extraction of groundwater for municipal use in the Chico area causes several small groundwater depressions that tend to alter the natural southwesterly movement of groundwater in the area. In the Chico area, groundwater levels in the unconfined portion of the aquifer system is about 5- to 7-feet during normal precipitation and up to approximately 16 feet during periods of drought. Annual fluctuation in the confined or semi confined portion of the aquifer system is approximately 15- to 25-feet during normal years and up to approximately 30 feet during periods of drought. Long-term comparison of spring to spring groundwater levels for confined or semi-confined portions of the aquifer system indicates a 10 to 15-foot decline in groundwater levels since the 1950s (DWR 2001). Stormwater Management Program Butte County operates under a Small Municipal Separate Stormwater Sewer Systems (Small MS4) permit as required by Phase II of the NPDES, and which currently covers the urbanized area around the City of Chico. In order to fulfill the requirements of the permit, Butte County development and implemented a Stormwater Management Program in 2003. The program is managed at the State Level by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) under permit from the EPA. The program includes public education and outreach, public participation and involvement, illicit discharge detection and elimination, construction site stormwater runoff control, post-construction stormwater management in new development and redevelopment, and pollution prevention for County operations and facilities. The program also includes descriptions of Best Management Practices (BMPs) to address specific activities identified in the regulations, such as illicit discharge. The Department of Public Works and Development Services Department are responsible for planning, inspection, enforcement, and permit clearances for construction projects in the county. The Department of Public Works is responsible for the County’s stormwater drainage system. Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance Chapter 50 of the Butte County Code provides the County with the legal authority necessary to implement and otherwise comply with the requirements of the County’s Stormwater Management Program. Approved by the County in 2003, the Stormwater Management Program requires the County to effectively prohibit non-stormwater discharges from the State Board’s defined boundaries of the County’s MS4 Stormwater Permit area in the County storm drain system. Butte County Flood Hazard Prevention Ordinance Chapter 26, Article IV of the Butte County Code requires the Department of Development Services to review all applications for new construction or subdivisions within flood hazard areas, and requires that the lowest floor of any new construction or substantial improvements within Flood Zones A, AE, AH, and shaded Zone X be elevated 1-foot or more above the regulatory flood elevation. Applications must also show that development within the flood plain will not raise the existing flood level in a manner that adversely affects any neighboring property. Butte County Improvement Standards The Butte County Improvement Standards contain the County’s requirements for design of sewer storm drainage systems, Section 12.0 contains requirements for water supplies; Section 11.0 contains requirements for sewage disposal; Section 10.0 contains requirements for storm drainage. Section 11.01-1 identifies requirements for the design of sewer systems in new subdivisions, and Section 10.01-1 identifies requirements for the design of storm drain systems in new subdivisions. Sewerage and storm drainage plans are subject to approval by the Butte County Department of Public Works. Section 11.01-1 of the County’s Improvement Standard requires that the design of stormwater systems… “…shall be such that water accumulating within the project will be carried away from the project without injury to any adjacent improvements, residential sites, or residence to be installed on site within the project, or to adjoining areas. The drainage plans shall specify how drainage waters shall be detained on site and or conveyed to the nearest natural or publicly maintained drainage channel or facility and shall provide that there shall be no increase in the peak flow runoff to said channel or facility.” Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 31 of 49 ■ Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact. Future development associated with the proposed project would require grading, excavation and general site preparation activities that could result in erosion of on-site soils and sedimentation during storm or high wind events. Erosion of on-site soils would temporarily impact surface water quality and water quality within nearby waterways. Downstream impacts from erosion include increased turbidity and suspended sediment concentrations. Eroded soils also contains nitrogen, phosphorous and other nutrients, that when deposited in water bodies, can trigger algal blooms that reduce water clarity, deplete oxygen, and create odors. Eroded sediments may blanket fauna, and the increased cloudiness from suspended sediments may also reduce photosynthesis that produces food supply and natural aquatic habitat (Butte County General Plan 2030). As discussed in Section 4.6 – Geologic Processes, the physical characteristics of the soil at the project site indicate that susceptibility to erosion is slight. During construction-related activities, specific erosion control and surface water protection methods for each construction activity would be implemented on the project site. The type and number of measures implemented would be based upon location-specific attributes (i.e., slope, soil type, weather conditions). These control and protection measures, or BMPs, are standard in the construction industry and are commonly used to minimize soil erosion and water quality degradation. Additionally, future construction activities may be subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Construction Activities Storm Water permit program if one acre or more of land is disturbed. Construction activities that result in a land disturbance of less than one acre, but which are part of a larger common plan of development, also require a permit. This program requires implementation of erosion control measures during and immediately after construction that are designed to avoid significant erosion during the construction period. Project operations that are under a NPDES permit would also be subject to State Water Resources Control Board requirements for the preparation and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to control pollution in stormwater runoff from the project site. A condition of approval reflecting the requirement of the applicant to obtain a NPDES permit, prior to grading activities, will be included with project approval. Groundwater Quality Future development on the resultant parcels also has the potential to contribute pollutants to area groundwater. Nitrate contamination of groundwater is one of the most widespread pollutants and may impact area residents who utilize groundwater as their main source of drinking water. High concentrations of nitrate in groundwater are primarily caused by human activities, including fertilizer application (synthetic and manure), animal operations, industrial sources (wastewater treatment and food processing facilities), and septic system. Nitrate contamination poses a health risk to many rural areas where drinking water is obtained from wells that are often shallow and vulnerable to contamination. The California Department of Public Health set a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 45 milligrams per liter (mg/L) for nitrates in drinking water. Levels of nitrate that exceed safe drinking water standards can interfere with the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues of the body producing a condition called methemoglobinemia. The groups with the greatest risk of becoming ill through ingesting nitrate are infants under 6 months and pregnant women. Groups with the lowest risk of becoming ill are healthy children and adults (CDPH). Wastewater disposal on the project site would be handled by new, individual, on-site septic systems. General Plan 2030 includes a number of policies in the Water Resources Element and the Public Facilities Services Element both to address existing septic systems in areas with poor soils and to ensure the safety of future septic systems. To ensure the safety of new septic systems, Policy PUB-P13.2 requires new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater system. Similarly, Policy PUB-P13.3 requires applicants of projects that will rely on on-site wastewater systems to provide detailed plans demonstrating that the system will be adequate to serve the project. Lastly, Policy PUB-P12.2 requires on-site wastewater treatment and disposal systems in the Chico area to continue to be regulated according to requirements in the Chico Urban Area Nitrate Compliance Plan (Butte County General Plan 2030). The applicant completed a pre-application review with Butte County Department of Environmental Health, in accordance with Chapter 19 of Butte County Code (On-Site Wastewater Systems). As part of the review, an initial septic location on the resultant parcels were evaluated and determined to have adequate soil conditions to allow for future development of an on-site wastewater system. Future development requiring wastewater disposal is required to receive an On-Site Wastewater System Construction Permit from Butte County Environmental Health Division. Application for a Construction Permit will include detailed plans of the proposed wastewater system, prepared by a Certified Installer or Certified Designer, which will demonstrate compliance with County Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 32 of 49 ■ regulations and the County’s On-Site Wastewater Manual, and to ensure a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater system. b.) Less than significant impact. Domestic water to existing and planned uses on the resultant parcels would be provided by groundwater extraction. No limitations or entitlements are required for the extraction and use of the underlying groundwater, provided the water is used to serve a beneficial use on the property. Pursuant to Butte County Improvement Standards 12.03, resultant parcels less than 20 acres and proposing to utilize an individual water supply system must verify that water is available in sufficient quantities, as detailed under Standard 12.02-2(1). Additionally, well yields for new wells must meet the minimum acceptable standards detailed in the Butte County Environmental Health Division – Potable Water Adequacy Policies and Procedures. The proposed project has the potential to result in a net increase in impervious surfaces on the project site from the development of new residences or other structures. Future development would result in only a minor increase in impervious surfaces from the construction of concrete foundations and access road surfacing. Thus, the proposed project would not cause a measureable reduction in surface infiltration or a decrease in deep percolation to the underlying aquifers. c.) Less than significant impact. Ground disturbance during construction activities associated with the build- out of the resultant parcels may alter existing drainage pathways, expose surface soils to become more susceptible to erosive forces (i.e., overland flow) and/or generate enough increased runoff through removal/clearing of existing vegetation to increase surface erosion. General Plan 2030 includes policies that address water quality standards and waste discharge requirements. Specifically, Policy W-P1.11 requires enforcement of grading and construction regulations to minimize erosion and urban stormwater runoff pollution; Policy W-P5.2 requires than new development identify and adequately mitigate its water quality impacts from stormwater runoff; and, Policy W-P5.4 requires that temporary facilities be installed as necessary during construction activities in order to adequately treat stormwater runoff from construction sites. These policies discuss above, in conjunction with the Butte County Stormwater Management Program, Butte County Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, and the application of other State regulations discussed in Section A, above, would reduce water quality impacts to a less than significant level. d.) Less than significant impact. Construction activities associated with build-out of the resultant parcels would not substantially alter drainage patterns such that they would cause on- or off-site flooding. Minimal vegetation removal and soil disturbance would occur during clearing of building sites and for the access road (less than one acre), resulting in the potential for increased stormwater runoff. Application of BMPs administrated through the construction process would minimize the potential for surface runoff and further reduce the potential for flooding. The minor increase in impervious surface area from build-out of the resultant parcels is not anticipated to be enough to alter existing drainage patterns or cause offsite flooding. While some increase in stormwater runoff may be expected due to the reduced absorption rate created from new impervious surfaces on the site, such as from structures, driveways, and hardscape (walkways, patios), future development would be reviewed by the Butte County Public Works Department to ensure any potential drainage concerns are addressed, and to ensure no net increase in stormwater runoff leaves the project site. e.) Less than significant impact. When precipitation falls onto the ground surface, it naturally infiltrates into the ground, and when the ground is saturated, it runs off as surface flow. Stormwater in Butte County is currently conveyed through a system of ditches, culverts and underground storm sewers to regional waterways. Stormwater that falls on impervious surfaces such as roads, driveways and parking lots picks up residual pollution such as oil, sediment, and trash. These materials are then washed into waterways and pollute the rivers and reservoirs of Butte County and other downstream receiving waters. In addition, stormwater runs off impervious surfaces at a faster rate than off of soil or natural surfaces. Increase rates stormwater runoff can result in hydromodification of downstream waterways through eroded streambanks and deeply cut creek channels (Butte County General Plan 2030). The proposed project is likely to generate a minor increase in runoff from the future development of the resultant parcels, such as with the construction of new residences or access roads. These improvements are relatively small and conveyed through a system of ditches and culverts to area waterways. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 33 of 49 ■ General Plan 2030 Water Resource Element contains policies that address stormwater runoff capacity. Policy W-P1.4 encourages Low Impact Development, which minimizes impervious areas, minimizes runoff and pollution, and incorporates best management practices. Policy W-P5.3 allows and encourages pervious pavements. Policy W-P5.5 requires that stormwater collection systems be installed concurrently with construction of new roadways to maximize efficiency and minimize disturbance due to construction activity. Policy HS-P3.2 requires that applicants for new development 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, without increasing the peak flow runoff to said channel or facility. Policy HS-P3.3 requires that all development include stormwater control measures and site design features that prevent any increase in the peak flow runoff to existing drainage facilities. As a condition of approval to the project, the applicant shall submit drainage plans and calculations to the County Public Works Department. Engineering plans will detail existing drainage conditions and specify how stormwater runoff will be either detained or retained onsite and/or conveyed to the nearest natural drainage channel or publicly-maintained facility. Engineering calculations will show there is no increase in peak flow runoff leaving the property. All improvements associated with the proposed project will be made in accordance with the Butte County Improvement Standards. Implementation of these conditions of approval, together with the application of existing County and State regulations and policies would ensure that the anticipated minor increase in runoff would not exceed the capacity of any existing stormwater drainage systems or substantially increase polluted runoff. f.) No impact. The proposed project would not result in potential surface water pollution beyond the issues discussed in section a.), above. Therefore, the proposed project would not otherwise degrade water quality beyond the issues previously addressed. g.) No impact. According to floodplain mapping of the project area, the project site is located within the X zone. The X zone is defined by FEMA as areas of minimal flood hazard from the principal source of flood in the area and determined to be outside of the 0.2 percent annual chance floodplain. As a result, proposed improvements and future development on the resultant parcels would not be subject to the County’s Flood Hazard Prevention Ordinance. h.) No impact. See discussion 4.19(g) – Hydrology and Water Quality. i.) No impact. The project site is not identified as being located in a flood hazard zone or an inundation zone for any dams regulated by the California Dam Safety Act. j.) No impact. Although located within a seismically-active region, the project site is not located in an area that would be impacted by a seiche, tsunami, or mudflows. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.10 Land Use: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Physically divide an established community? b. Conflict with an applicable land use plan, policy, or regulations of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to, the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c. Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? Setting: Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 34 of 49 ■ Butte County General Plan The General Plan represents the basic community values, ideals and aspirations with respect to land use, development, transportation, public services, and conservation policy that will govern Butte County through 2030. The land use element of the general plan designates the land use of areas within the county, and includes a description of the characteristics and intensity of each land use category. The land use designation for the project site is Very Low Density Residential. Butte County Zoning Ordinance The Zoning Ordinance implements the goals and policies of the Butte County General Plan by regulating the uses of the land and structures within the County. The zoning designation of the project site and their intended use are as follows: Very Low Density Residential - 2.5 (VLDR-2.5) The purpose of the VLDR zone is to allow for single-family homes and related uses in residential neighborhoods within the county. Standard for the VLDR zone are intended to preserve and protect the character of existing neighborhoods and to ensure that new residential neighborhoods provide an appropriate transition from rural to more developed areas. Permitted residential uses in the VLDR zones include single-family homes, small residential care homes, second units, animal grazing, on-site agricultural product sales, and private stables. The VLDR zone also conditionally permits non-residential uses compatible with a residential setting, including public and quasi-public uses, golf courses, park and recreational facilities, personal services, animal keeping, large residential care homes, and medical offices and clinics. The minimum permitted parcel size in the VLDR-2.5 zone is 2.5 acres. Impact Discussion: a.) No impact. The project site is located on vacant land and is not part of an established community. As a result, the proposed project will not physically divide an established community. b.) No impact. The proposed project does not include an amendment to the existing land use designation, or a change to the existing land uses occurring on the project site. The proposed project would subdivide the property into additional parcels, with each parcel meeting the minimum parcel size requirement designated by zoning. c.) No impact. The Butte Regional Conservation Plan (BRCP) is a joint Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP)/National Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) that is currently being prepared for the western half of the Butte County, and is scheduled to be completed in 2015. The project site is located within the proposed plan area of the BRCP. However, as the plan has not been adopted, the proposed project will not conflict, nor interfere with, the attainment of the goals of the proposed plan. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.11 Mineral Resources: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b. Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan? Impact Discussion: Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 35 of 49 ■ a.) Less than significant impact. There are no known economically viable sources of rock materials in the immediate vicinity of the project site. No mining operations have occurred on the project site or surrounding area and the project would not preclude future extraction of available mineral resources. Mineral resource extraction is not proposed with this project. However, future development on the resultant parcels would use mineral resources in the construction of structures and access roads. The amount of resources used for the anticipated development on the resultant parcels is minor and would not result in the loss of its availability. b.) No impact. The project site is not located in an area currently used for, or known to have, locally-important mineral resources. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.12 Noise: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b. Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive ground borne vibration or ground borne noise levels? c. A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d. A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? e. For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f. For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? Setting: Table HS-2 of the Butte County General Plan identifies the maximum allowable noise exposure to a variety of land uses from transportation sources, including from roadways, rail and airports. Table HS-3 identifies the maximum allowable noise exposure from non-transportation sources. In the case of transportation noise sources, exterior noise level standards for residential outdoor activity areas are 60 dB (Ldn/CNEL). However, where it is not possible to reduce noise in an outdoor activity area to 60 dB Ldn /CNEL or less using a practical application of the best-available noise-reduction measures, an exterior noise level of up to 65 dB may be allowed, provided that available exterior noise-level reduction measures have been implemented and interior noise levels are in compliance with applicable standards. The maximum allowable interior noise level standards for residential uses is 45 dB Ldn/CNEL, which is designed for sleep and speech protection. The typical structural attenuation of a residence from an exterior noise is 15 dBA when windows facing the noise source is open. When windows in good condition are closed, the noise attenuation factor is around 20 dBA for an older structure and 25 dBA for a newer dwelling. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 36 of 49 ■ The Butte County Noise Control Ordinance provides the County with a means of assessing complaints of alleged noise violations and to address noise level violations from stationary sources. The ordinance includes a list of activities that are exempt from the provisions of the ordinance. Construction-related noise within 1,000 feet of residential uses are included among the exempted activities, provided construction activities do not take place: From sunset to sunrise on weekends and non-holidays; Fridays commencing at 6:00 pm through and including 8:00 am on Saturday; Before 8:00 am on holidays; Saturday commencing at 6:00 pm through and including 10:00 am on Sunday; and Sunday after 6:00 pm. Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact. Noise levels contributed by the proposed project would include construction noise during future build-out of the resultant parcels, occupancy of the single-family residences, and from agricultural-related activities. Construction noises associated with development of the resultant parcel would primarily be from the use of heavy equipment, generators, and power tools. Typical noises contributed by residential and agricultural uses include landscaping equipment, automobile traffic, power tools, domestic animals, farm machinery, heating and cooling systems. Much of the noise generated by these activities would be intermittent and separated from noise sensitive receptors; and therefore, is unlikely to exceed County standards. Additionally, construction-related noise from on-site development would be temporary and intermittent, and would not result in long-term noise impacts. Compliance with Butte County Code provisions regarding construction noise would ensure construction activities occur during hours exempt from County noise standards, making potential impacts less than significant. b.) Less than significant impact. The use of blasting and/or pile drivers during construction activities would not be included as part of the proposed project. The proposed project would involve temporary sources of groundborne vibration and groundborne noise during construction from the operation of heavy equipment. Operation of heavy equipment would generate localized groundborne vibration and groundborne noise that could be perceptible at residences or other sensitive uses in the immediate vicinity of the construction site. However, since the duration of impact would be infrequent and would occur during less sensitive daytime hours (i.e., between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.), the impact from construction-related groundborne vibration and groundborne noise would be less than significant. c.) Less than significant impact. The primary contributors to the existing noise environment surrounding the project site include motor vehicle traffic along area roadways and sounds emanating from residential and agricultural uses. Permanent noise sources that would be introduced to the existing noise environment by the proposed project would primarily come from motor vehicles generated at full build-out of the resultant parcels, and to a lesser extent, from residential and agricultural uses. Noise introduced to area roadways by the project Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 37 of 49 ■ would not cause a substantial increase to existing noise levels due to minimal development anticipated with the proposed project. Further, due to the low ambient noise levels in the surrounding environment, and the projected density of the resultant parcels and surrounding area, the minimal increase in ambient noise levels contributed by the project would not be substantial. d.) Less than significant impact. The only temporary or periodic noise sources that would be introduced to the existing noise environment by the proposed project would be noises associated with construction activities. Construction activities would require a variety of equipment. During the construction period, noise levels generated by project construction would vary depending on the particular type, number, and duration of use of the various types of construction equipment. Though noises generated by heavy equipment would periodically generate noise levels in excess of exterior noise standards identified in the General Plan, given the minimal development anticipated to build-out the resultant parcels, the infrequent use of heavy equipment during construction, and that construction activities would occur during less sensitive daytime hours, temporary noise impacts are not considered significant. e.) No impact. The Chico Municipal Airport is located approximately 2.5 miles northeast from the project site, and is situated within Airport Land Use Compatibility Zone D for the airport. At this distance, the project site is located outside the 55 dB CNEL noise level established for the airport. As a result, operational noises from the airport would not affect residents located on the project site. f.) No impact. No known private airstrips have been identified within the vicinity of the project site. As a result, no noise impacts associated with the airport operations are anticipated to affect people working or residing within the project site. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.13 Population and Housing: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b. Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c. Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? Setting: The population for Butte County was estimated to be 220,024 in 2010 and 203,446 in 2000, resulting in a total population growth of 16,578 during this 10-year period (US Census). The annual average population growth rate in the county during this period was 0.79 percent. Total housing units in Butte County was approximately 95,835 in 2010, with approximately 8.6 percent of these housing units considered vacant. The proposed project would result in the creation of four additional parcels that could potentially be developed with a single-family residence. According to the United States Census Bureau, the average household size of an owner- occupied housing unit for Butte County is 2.43. Based on the average household size within the county, and the potential number of housing units that could be constructed on the parcel, the proposed project could add 8 to 12 new residents to the local population. Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact. Subdivision of the project site could facilitate the potential addition of single- family residential units, which would directly result in growth in available housing and, if occupied, to the Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 38 of 49 ■ local population. However, housing and population growth with this project are consistent with planned future land uses and would be minor in scale. Construction activities associated with development of the residential units would not result in any direct or indirect growth-inducing impacts to the county because construction activities would be temporary, and construction workers would likely be drawn from the local and regional work force. Growth in the project area resulting from the project is planned, and is consistent with the applicable planning policies and zoning ordinance. b.) No impact. See discussion 4.13(a) – Population and Housing. The project site is vacant land, and no residences would be removed or displaced by the proposed project. Therefore, the project would not result in the displacement of substantial numbers of people or housing. c.) No impact. See discussion 4.13(a) – Population and Housing. The proposed project would not cause the displacement of the local population. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.14 Public Services: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of or need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for any of the public services: 1. Fire protection? 2. Police Protection? 3. Schools? 4. Parks? 5. Other public services? Impact Discussion: a1.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.8 – Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Butte County Code requires the payment of fire protection impact fees to help offset the impacts that new residential development has on the fire protection services. Fire protection impact fees would be paid at the time of building permit issuance for a dwelling unit. a2.) Less than significant impact. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office provides law enforcement service to the site. Implementation of the proposed project could increase service calls if additional residential structures are built. Increased development in rural areas impacts the ability of the Sheriff's Department to adequately provide services to outlying areas. Although police protection services may need to be increased as a result of the project, it is anticipated that project implementation would not require any new law enforcement facilities or the alteration of existing facilities to maintain acceptable performance objectives. The project’s increase in demand for law enforcement services would be offset through project-related impact fees. a3.) Less than significant impact. Residential development at the site would result in an incremental demand for school facilities in the area. The project site is located in the Chico Unified School District. A development Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 39 of 49 ■ impact fee for school facilities will be assessed at the time of residential development on the resultant parcels to offset any potential impact to area school facilities. a4.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.15 – Recreation. a5.) Less than significant impact. The project would result in added need for County services, such as law enforcement, fire protection, general services, libraries, and roads. Butte County collects various types of development impact fees to offset the cost and impacts associated with new residential units. These fees vary depending on the dwelling type, and are collected at the time of development. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.15 Recreation: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b. Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? Setting The project site is located within the Chico Recreation and Park District (CARD). The district covers an area of approximately 208 square miles, and includes the City of Chico, as well as the unincorporated community of Nord. The district operates and maintains approximately 214 acres of developed parkland and facilities to serve a population of approximately 104,367 residents. This translates into a level of service of 1.85 acres of parklands for every 1,000 residents. The total park facilities operated by the district do not include Bidwell Park and parks operated by State and Federal agencies. No park facilities are located in the vicinity of the project site; however, it’s anticipated that future residents of the project site would likely use facilities located in the City of Chico, as well as nearby State-operated facilities, to meet their recreational needs. Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact. Increase in the demand for recreational facilities is typically associated with substantial increases in population. As discussed in Section 4.13 - Population and Housing, the proposed project may generate growth in the local population if residential units are constructed on the resultant parcels. Because housing and population growth in the project area would be minor, the project would not result in a substantial increase in demand for recreational facilities or adversely affect Butte County park/population standards. b.) No impact. The proposed project does not include plans for additional recreational facilities nor would it require expansion of existing recreational facilities. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in any adverse physical effects on the environment from construction or expansion of recreational facilities. Mitigation Measure: None required. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 40 of 49 ■ 4.16 Transportation/Traffic: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass transit? b. Conflict with an applicable congestion management program, including, but not limited to level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c. Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d. Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? e. Result in inadequate emergency access? f. Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities Setting: Roadway Network Access to the resultant parcels would be provided by a new private access road constructed within a 60-foot wide easement off Bell Road. The access road will be constructed to the County’s RS-8-LDIII Standard, which will include two, 10-foot wide travel lanes, 2-foot wide shoulders, and roadside drainages. Road surfacing will include a 4-inch aggregate base overlaid with a single layer of sealcoat. The total length of the road from Bell Road to it terminus is 1,319 feet, and will include a 40-foot radius cul-de-sac at its terminus. Road approach improvements will be constructed to S-18B standard, pursuant to the 2006 Butte County Improvement Standards. Local access roads surrounding the project site is provided by Bell Road (County), Jones Avenue (Private), Santiago Court (Private) and Ciulla Lane (Private). Bell Road is an urban collector, County-maintained roadway. Bell Road provides East-West access between Cussick Avenue and Hamilton-Nord-Cana Highway. The road is approximately 20 to 24 feet in width, with an asphalt surface. Paved shoulders widths of one-foot are located on both sides of the road. Jones Avenue is a cul-de-sac (dead end) urban local road, approximately 1,220 feet in length from Bell Road. The road is privately maintained. The road width is approximately 20 to 22 feet, with no paved shoulders. However, several feet of clearance is located along the western side of the road. The road surface is paved with asphalt from Bell Road to Ciulla Lane. From Ciulla Lane to Santiago Court, the road surface is chip-sealed. No designated turnaround is located at the terminus of the road. However, sufficient area for maneuvering is available. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 41 of 49 ■ Santiago Court is a cul-de-sac (dead end) urban local road, approximately 350 feet in length from Jones Avenue. The road is privately maintained. The road has two travel lanes separated by a landscaped median. Each travel lane is approximately 10 feet in width, with an asphalt surface. A 50-foot diameter turnaround is located at the terminus of the road. No signage was identified. Ciulla Lane is a cul-de-sac (dead end), privately-maintained, local road, approximately 500 feet in length from Jones Avenue. The road width is approximately 12 to 14 feet, with no paved shoulders. However, several feet of clearance are available on both sides. The road has an asphalt surface. No turnaround is located at the terminus of the road. Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Bicycle facilities include bike paths (Class I), bike lanes (Class II), and bike routes (Class III). Class I Bike paths provide a completely separated facility designed for the exclusive use of bicycles and pedestrians within minimal cross flows by motorists. Caltrans standards call for Class I two-way bike paths to have 8 feet of pavement width with 2 foot wide graded shoulders on either side, for a total right-of-way width of 12 feet. Designated one-way bike paths are allowed 5 feet of minimum pavement width. Class I bike paths must also be at least 5 feet from the edge of a paved roadway, 8 feet from an obstruction, and meet specified minimum horizontal and vertical curve requirements for the speeds anticipated. Class II Bike lanes provides restricted on-street right-of-way designated for the exclusive or semi-exclusive use of bicycles with through travel by motor vehicles or pedestrians prohibited, but with vehicle parking and crossflows by pedestrians and motorists permitted. Caltrans standards generally require a minimum 4 foot bike lane with 6-inch white strip separating the roadway from the bike lane. Where raised curbs without permitted parking or designated marked parking exists, a minimum 5 foot bike lane adjacent to the traffic lane is required. Where parking is permitted, but unmarked, the 6-inch white stripe separating the traffic lane from the bike lane must be a minimum of 12 feet from the raised curb. Class III Bike routes provides a preferred shared route with motorists on the street, or to a more restricted extent, with pedestrians on sidewalks where designated by signs or permanent markings. The main purpose of designated bike routes is to provide continuity to the bikeway network by connecting discontinuous segments of Class I and II bikeways and may also be used to direct bicyclists to a route of higher degree of service or use. Roadways designated as Class III bike routes should have sufficient width to accommodate motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Other than a street sign, there are no special markings required for a Class III bike route. Pedestrian facilities include sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and paved shoulders adjacent to rural roads. The County of Butte’s Development Standards typically require proposed residential and commercial developments located in the County’s urban areas to construct curb, gutter, and sidewalk improvements within the County roadways fronting development. Residential developments located within the Chico Urban Area that have lot sizes greater than one acre come under a separate rural standard that presently does not require curb, gutter, and sidewalks to be constructed. Elsewhere sidewalks are presently constructed to County Public Works Standards with a four-foot wide sidewalk in residential areas and a five-foot wide sidewalk within commercial areas (Butte County Bicycle Plan, 2011). There are no designated pedestrian or bicycle transportation facilities located near the project site, nor are such facilities proposed for the project area. Given the lack of existing facilities, pedestrian and bicycle traffic generally will use the unpaved and paved roadway shoulders, or the paved travel lanes. Airport Air transportation in Butte County is served by a number of private and public airfields and heliports serving general aviation and agricultural users. There are four major aviation facilities in Butte County that serve the general public. The Chico Municipal Airport is the nearest general aviation airport to the project site. The airport is located approximately 2.5 miles northeast from the project site, placing the project site within Airport Land Use Compatibility Zone D for the airport. The airport is publicly owned and operated. Facilities include a 6,724 foot long and 150 foot wide runway, and a separate 3,005 long runway, both of which handle nearly 70,000 aircraft takeoffs and landings each year. The airport has an airport traffic control tower and a limited commuter airline services. The airport is also a major fire attack aircraft base during area wildfires. Impact Discussion: Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 42 of 49 ■ a) Less than significant impact. The proposed project has the potential to introduce (4) four single-family residences, as well as accessory uses to the planned and existing residences, which would generate long-term changes in traffic volumes. Vehicle traffic for a single-family residence is estimated to be approximately 10 vehicle trips per day (Institute of Transportation Engineers, 1997). Because the scope of the proposed project is relatively minor and would not result in construction of a substantial amount of residential units, the increase in traffic levels would not create substantial impacts to operating conditions of the area road network. Construction activities associated the future development of the resultant parcels has the potential to generate short-term changes to traffic volumes on the area road network. Daily vehicle trips would be generated with the arrival and departure of construction workers. Heavy truck trips would be required for hauling equipment and materials to and from the construction site. Any future construction activities would be small-scale and of short-duration. As a result, the proposed project would not cause long-term degradation in, or create substantial impacts to, the operating conditions or level of service on any of the roadways in the project area. b) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.16(a) - Transportation/Traffic. c.) No impact. The Chico Municipal Airport is located approximately 2.5 miles northeast from the project site, and is situated within Airport Land Use Compatibility Zone D for the airport. Compatibility Zone D for the Chico Municipal Airport is defined as the outer boundary of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 77 conical zone limits, subjecting lands to reviews to ensure that objects and other land uses do not affect the navigable airspace of the airport. Uses prohibited within Zone D include any hazards to the flight of the aircraft such as physical, visual and electronic forms of interference, and land uses which may cause the attraction of birds to increase. Conditions to development within Zone D include establishment of an avigation easement dedication with acknowledgement of airport proximity and review of objects greater than 100 feet in height. Approval of the proposed project will be subject to implementing the requirements of the Butte County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan to ensure the project will not result in any changes to air traffic patterns or aircraft safety hazards. d.) Less than significant impact. The proposed project would not change the configuration (alignment) of area roadways, and would not introduce types of vehicles that are not already traveling on area roads. However, construction of access roads or driveways to the resultant parcels may require encroachment improvements to the frontage road. Future encroachments to a county roadway would be designed in accordance with a Butte County Public Works Encroachment Permit, which would ensure that any potential safety and compatibility issues are addressed. e.) Less than significant impact. Resultant parcels would access Bell Road via a privately-maintained road to be constructed with approval of the proposed project. The proposed access road would be designed and constructed to meet all applicable State and local development standards, ensuring that access is adequate to provide emergency ingress and egress. f.) Less than significant impact. No existing or proposed bicycle or pedestrians facilities are located on, or in the vicinity of, the project site. Future development on the resultant parcels would have minor long-term impacts on alternative transportation facilities due to the limited population growth to the project area. Construction activities associated with future development may generate short-term disruption to area roadways from an anticipated increase in traffic levels that may affect alternative transportation uses. However, construction activities associated with the proposed project would be temporary, and in compliance with a Butte County Encroachment Permit, which would require traffic control implementation, if needed. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.17 Utilities and Service Systems: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 43 of 49 ■ Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document b. Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c. Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? e. Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? f. Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project’s solid waste disposal needs? g. Comply with federal, state, and local statutes, and regulations related to solid waste? Impact Discussion: a.) No impact. Wastewater disposal for the proposed project would be provided by private, on-site septic systems. The Butte County Environmental Health Division has performed a preliminary review of the proposed project, and has indicated that future placement of an on-site septic system for the proposed parcel would be possible. At the time of development, the proposed septic system would be evaluated, and compliance with wastewater disposal standards would be insured. As a result, no wastewater treatment requirements by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board would be required. b.) No impact. See discussion 4.17(a) – Utilities and Service Systems. c.) Less than significant impact. No existing on-site storm water drainage facilities are located on the project site. Prior to recording of the parcel map, a drainage analysis will be performed for the project site that will detail existing drainage conditions and provide measures that will ensure that no net increase in peak flow runoff leaves the property. Runoff generated on the property may either be detained or retained on-site and/or conveyed to the nearest natural drainage channel or publicly maintained facility. Any proposed storm runoff facilities would be construction to the County’s improvement standards, which will ensure that impacts created with the creation of new facilities, or expansion of existing facilities, would not cause significant adverse effects to the environment. d.) Less than significant impact. Domestic water to existing and planned uses on the resultant parcels would be provided by groundwater extraction. No limitations or entitlements are required for the extraction and use of the underlying groundwater, provided the water is used to serve a beneficial use on the property. Pursuant to Butte County Improvement Standards 12.03, resultant parcels less than 20 acres and proposing to utilize an individual water supply system must verify that water is available in sufficient quantities, as detailed under Standard 12.02-2(1). Additionally, well yields for new wells must meet the minimum acceptable standards detailed in the Butte County Environmental Health Division – Potable Water Adequacy Policies and Procedures. e.) No impact. See discussion 4.17(a) – Utilities and Service Systems. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 44 of 49 ■ f.) Less than significant impact. Future development of the resultant parcels would result in a minor increase in the stream of waste being deposited in the Neal Road Landfill. The California Integrated Waste Management Board estimates that a typical residential household generate 10 to 12 pounds of waste per day (1.8 to 2.2 tons per year). According to the Butte County Public Works Department, the Neal Road Landfill is expected to reach maximum holding capacity by the year 2018, and is currently seeking a permit to expand the landfill so that it can accommodate solid waste to the year 2034. Based on this information, and because the proposed project would comply with all applicable federal, state, and local statutes and regulations as they relate to solid waste, adequate permitted landfill capacity exists to accommodate the proposed project. g.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.17(f) – Utilities and Service Systems. Mitigation Measure: None required. 4.18 Mandatory Findings of Significance: Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Impact Less Than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact Reviewed Under Previous Document a. Have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b. Have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects and the effects of probable future projects)? c. Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Impact Discussion: a.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. With the implementation of mitigation measures included in this Initial Study, the proposed project would not degrade the quality of the environment; result in an adverse impact on fish, wildlife, or plant species including special status species, or prehistoric or historic cultural resources. Prehistoric or historic cultural resources would not be adversely affected because no archeological or historic resources are known to exist in the project area and project implementation includes following appropriate procedures for avoiding or preserving artifacts or human remains should they be uncovered during project excavation. b.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. This project has the potential to contribute impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable with respect to Air Quality, Biological, Cultural Resources, and Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Cumulative impacts to these areas would be mitigated due to the inclusion of the Mitigation Measures listed below, as itemized under Section 5 – Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Requirements. Past, current, and probable future projects in the vicinity of the project site were reviewed to determine if any additional cumulative impacts may occur with the approval of this project. A two mile radius was used in determining cumulative impacts. No additional cumulative impacts were discovered. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 45 of 49 ■ c.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. There have been no impacts discovered through the review of this application demonstrating that there would be substantial adverse effects on human beings either directly or indirectly. However, the proposed project has the potential to cause both temporary and future impacts to the area by project-related impacts relating to air, biological, and cultural resources. With implementation of mitigation measures included in this Initial Study, these impacts would be effectively mitigated to a less than significant level. 5.0 Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Requirements Mitigation Measure #1 (Construction Air Emissions) The following best practice measures to reduce impacts to air quality shall be incorporated by the project applicant, subject property owners, or third-party contractors during construction activities on the project site. These measures are intended to reduce criteria air pollutants that may originate from the site during the course of land clearing and other construction operations. Diesel PM Exhaust from Construction Equipment and Commercial On-Road Vehicles Greater than 10,000 Pounds All on- and off-road equipment shall not idle for more than five minutes. Signs shall be posted in the designated queuing areas and/or job sites to remind drivers and operators of the five minute idling limit. Idling, staging and queuing of diesel equipment within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors is prohibited. All construction equipment shall be maintained in proper tune according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Equipment must be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition before the start of work. Install diesel particulate filters or implement other CARB-verified diesel emission control strategies. Shall not operate a diesel-fueled auxiliary power system (APS) to power a heater, air conditioner, or any ancillary equipment on that vehicle during sleeping or resting in a sleeper berth for greater than 5 minutes at any location when within 100 feet of a restricted areas. To the extent feasible, truck trips shall be scheduled during non-peak hours to reduce perk hour emissions. Operational TAC Emissions All mobile and stationary Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs) sources shall comply with applicable Airborne Toxic Control Measures (ATCMs) promulgated by the CARB throughout the life of the project (see http:www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/atcm/atcm.htm). Stationary sources shall comply with applicable District rules and regulations. Fugitive Dust Construction activities can generate fugitive dust that can be a nuisance to local residents and businesses near a construction site. Dust complaints could result in a violation of the District’s “Nuisance” and “Fugitive Dust” Rules 200 and 205, respectively. The following is a list of measures that may be required throughout the duration of the construction activities: Reduce the amount of the disturbed area where possible. Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne dust from leaving the site. An adequate water supply source must be identified. Increased watering frequency would be required whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph. Reclaimed (non-potable) water should be used whenever possible. All dirt stockpile areas should be sprayed daily as needed, covered, or a District approved alternative method will be used. Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved project revegetation and landscape plans should be implemented as soon as possible following completion of any soil disturbing activities. Exposed ground areas that will be reworked at dates greater than one month after initial grading should be sown with a fast-germinating non-invasive grass seed and watered until vegetation is established. All disturbed soil areas not subject to re-vegetation should be stabilized using approved chemical soil binders, jute netting, or other methods approved in advance by the Butte County Air Quality Management District. All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc. to be paved should be completed as soon as possible. In addition, building pads should be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil binders are used. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 46 of 49 ■ Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 15 mph on any unpaved surface at the construction site. All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to be covered or should maintain at least two feet of freeboard (minimum vertical distance between top of load and top of trailer) in accordance with local regulations. Install wheel washers where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto streets, or wash off trucks and equipment leaving the site. Sweep streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is carried onto adjacent paved roads. Water sweepers with reclaimed water should be used where feasible. Post a sign in prominent location visible to the public with the telephone numbers of the contractor and the Butte County Air Quality Management District - (530) 332-9400 for any questions or concerns about dust from the project. All fugitive dust mitigation measures required should be shown on grading and building plans. In addition, the contractor or builder should designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary, to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holidays and weekend period when work may not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to the District prior to land use clearance for map recordation and finished grading of the area. Please note that violations of District Regulations are enforceable under the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 42400, which provides for civil or criminal penalties of up to $25,000 per violation. Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans. Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods. Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site. Butte County Air Pollution Control District inspectors shall respond to nuisance complaints. Mitigation Measure #2 (Migratory Birds-Western Burrowing Owl) If project construction activities occur during the nesting season for birds protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Department Fish & Game Code (CDFC) (approximately March 1 – August 31), the project proponent shall retain a qualified biologist to perform preconstruction surveys for nesting bird species. Surveys to identify active bird nests shall be conducted within and 250 feet around the footprint of proposed construction. At least two surveys shall be conducted no more than 15 days prior to the initiation of construction activities. Each survey shall be separated by 5 days. In the event that nesting raptors or birds protected by CDFC and MBTA are found in or within the footprint of proposed construction, the project proponent shall: 1. Locate and map the location of the nest site; 2. Establish a 250 feet no-disturbance buffer around all active nests; in the event bald eagles are found nesting in the survey area, a 1,000 foot no disturbance buffer shall be established; 3. Within 2 working days of the surveys, prepare a report and submit to the County. The report will include the results of surveys, location(s) of nests, and location of no disturbance buffers; 4. On-going weekly surveys shall be conducted to ensure that the no disturbance buffer is maintained; 5. Construction can resume when a qualified biologist has confirmed that the nest is no longer active. Plan Requirements: Perform protocol-level surveys for migratory birds protected by the California Department Fish & Game Code and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This measure shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be adhered to prior to and during construction activities planned to occur during nesting seasons for CDFC and MBTA species (between March 1 and August 31). Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Department of Development Services shall ensure the condition is met at the time of construction activities. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 47 of 49 ■ Mitigation Measure #3 (Cultural Resources) Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the Parcel Map or on an additional map sheet that states: “Should grading activities reveal the presence of prehistoric or historic cultural resources (i.e. artifact concentrations, including arrowheads and other stone tools or chipping debris, cans glass, etc.; structural remains; human skeletal remains) work within 50 feet of the find shall immediately cease until a qualified professional archaeologist can be consulted to evaluate the find and implement appropriate mitigation procedures. Should human skeletal remains be encountered, State law requires immediate notification of the County Coroner ((530) 538-6579). Should the County Coroner determine that the remains are in an archaeological context, the Native American Heritage Commission in Sacramento shall be notified immediately, pursuant to State Law, to arrange for Native American participation in determining the disposition of such remains.” The provisions of this note shall be followed during construction of all subdivision improvements, including land clearing, road construction, utility installation, and building site development. Plan Requirements: This note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet and shall be shown on all site development and building plans. Timing: This measure shall be implemented during all site preparation and construction activities. Monitoring: The Department of Development Services and/or Public Works Department shall ensure the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Should cultural resources be discovered, the landowner shall notify the Planning Division and a professional archaeologist. The Planning Division shall coordinate with the developer and appropriate authorities to avoid damage to cultural resources and determine appropriate action. State law requires the reporting of any human remains. Mitigation Measure #4 (Greenhouse Gas Emissions): Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet that states: To the extent feasible, the developer shall implement the following measures at the time of development to offset the anticipated contribution of greenhouse gas emissions from residential development: Support expansion of renewable energy systems o Prewire all new residential development to support photovoltaic system installation. Support efficiency in vehicles and landscaping equipment o Install electrical vehicle outlets on external walls or in garages in all new residential development. Improve fuel efficiency of equipment during construction-related activities o Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the time of idling to no more than 3 minute. o Use clean or alternative fuel equipment Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans. Timing: Shall be implemented prior to issuance of building permits for residential development. Construction-related measures shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods. Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. Planning Division will ensure that future residential development includes the applicable measures during Building Permit review. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site. 6.0 Environmental Reference Material 1. Butte County Association of Governments. Butte Regional Conservation Plan, First Administrative Draft. Accessed December 27, 2013. (available at http://www.buttehcp.com/BRCP-Documents/1st-Admin-Draft- BRCP/index.html) Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 48 of 49 ■ 2. Butte County. Butte County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. Butte County Airport Land Use Commission. December 20, 2000. 3. Butte County. Butte County Bicycle Plan. June 14, 2011. 4. Butte County. Butte County Climate Action Plan. February 25, 2014. 5. Butte County. Butte County General Plan 2030 Final Environmental Impact Report. April 8, 2010. Available at http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/products/2010-08-30_FEIR/default.asp. 6. Butte County. Butte County General Plan 2030. October 26, 2010. Available at http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/products/2010-10-26_GP2030/Butte_County_General_Plan.pdf 7. Butte County. Butte County General Plan 2030 and Zoning Ordinance Amendments – Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report. June 17, 2015. 8. Butte County. Butte County General Plan 2030 Setting and Trends Report Public Draft. August 2, 2007. Available at http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/products/SettingandTrends/default.asp. 9. Butte County. Butte County Code of Ordinances, Chapters 19, 20, 24 & 41A. Accessed February 2015. Available at https://www.municode.com/library/ca/butte_county/codes/code_of_ordinances/ 10. Butte County. Butte County Department of Development Services GIS Data. March 2015. 11. Butte County. Chico Urban Area Nitrate Compliance Plan – Program Report & Proposed Implementation Plan for Groundwater Nitrate Compliance in the Chico Urban Area. 2000. 12. Butte County Air Quality Management District. CEQA Air Quality Handbook – Guidelines for Assessing Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Impacts for Projects Subject to CEQA Review. October 23, 2014. 13. Butte Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). Chico Recreation and Park District Municipal Service Review. April 2, 2009. 14. California Department of Conservation. Fault-Rupture Hazard Zones in California. Altquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act with Index to Earthquake Fault Zone Maps. Special Publication 42. Interim Revision. 2007. 15. California Department of Conservation, Division of Land Resource Protection. A Guide to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program. 2004. 16. California Department of Public Health. Nitrate Fact Sheet. May 2014. 17. California Department of Toxic Substance Control. 2009. Envirostor Database. Accessed on February 2015. http://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public. 18. California Department of Water Resources. Sacramento Valley Groundwater Basin, Vina Subbasin. California’s Groundwater Bulletin 118. February 27, 2004. 19. CalRecycle. California’s 2013 Per Capita Disposal Rate. Accessed March 2015. 20. Institute of Transportation Engineers. Trip Generation Manual, 6th Edition – Volume 1 of 3. 1997. 21. U.S. Census Bureau. Annual Estimates of the Resident Population – 2012 Population Estimates for Butte County, California. March 5, 2013. 22. U.S. Census Bureau. Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics – 2010. Butte County, California. March 5, 2013. Project Name: Robert & Leeanne Kromer Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0005 ■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■ ■ Initial Study – TPM14-0005 (Kromer) ■ Page 49 of 49 ■ 7.0 Consulted Agencies Environmental Health Public Works Building Manager BCAG County Counsel LAFCo Assessor Development Services Durham Unified School District Air Quality Management District City of Chico Sheriff City of Gridley City of Oroville Town of Paradise CalFire Caltrans (Traffic) CA Central Reg. Water Quality Department of Conservation CA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Highway Patrol Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Agricultural Commissioner Butte Co. Farm Bureau Paradise Unified School Dist. Feather River Recreation Dist. El Medio Fire Department NEIC LOAPUD PG&E Pacific Bell Palermo Union School District NOAA Fisheries City of Biggs 8.0 Project Sponsor(s) Incorporation of Mitigation into Proposed Project I/We have reviewed the Initial Study for Tentative Parcel Map (TPM14-0005) application and particularly the mitigation measures identified herein. I/We hereby modify the applications on file with the Butte County Planning Department to include and incorporate all mitigations set forth in this Initial Study. ____________________________________ ___________________ Project Sponsor/Project Agent Date ____________________________________ ___________________ Project Sponsor/Project Agent Date 8.0 Project Sponsor(s) Incorporation of Mitigation into Proposed Project I/We have reviewed the Initial Study for Tentative Parcel Map (TPM14-0005) application and particularly the mitigation measures identified herein. I/We hereby modify the applications on file with the Butte County Planning Department to include and incorporate all mitigations set forth in this Initial Study. ____________________________________ ___________________ Project Sponsor/Project Agent Date ____________________________________ ___________________ Project Sponsor/Project Agent Date DocuSign Envelope ID: C878606D-135E-40E0-89D2-3708F139F98E 2/19/2016 2/19/2016