HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-10-04 Agenda Packet - Board (9) Sauers Engineering, Inc.
Civil & Environmental Engineers 435 Coyote Street
Nevada City, CA 95959
(530) 265-8021
Memorandum
September 29, 2000
TO: Board of Directors, and
Ed Taylor, District Water Superintendent
FROM: Keith Knibb, Consulting Enginee
SUBJECT: Donner Lake Water System Acquisition and Rehabilitation - CEQA
We have completed the proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration and Environmental Initial
Study for the Donner Lake Water System Acquisition and Rehabilitation. These documents
need to be circulated to responsible and interested agencies and made available for public
review. The District also needs to schedule a public hearing to receive comments. Filing the
documents with the county clerk and state clearinghouse will trigger a thirty day review period.
RECOMMENDATION
I recommend the Board take the following actions regarding the environmental review for the
Donner Lake Water System Acquisition and Rehabilitation:
1. Authorize the filing of the proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration and Environmental
Initial Study with the Office of the Nevada County Clerk.
2. Authorize the circulation of the proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration and
Environmental Initial Study with responsible and interested agencies and with the State
Clearinghouse.
3. Authorize publication of a Notice of Public Review Period and Public Hearing on the
proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration.
4. Schedule a public hearing for the proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration at the regular
Board Meeting on November 15, 2000.
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
(XX) Proposed
( ) Final
NAME OF PROJECT: Donner Lake Water System Acquisition and Rehabilitation
LOCATION: Truckee, California
Entity or Person Undertaking Project:
(XX) Truckee Donner Public Utility District
Other( } Name:
Address:
Phone:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The proposed proj ect involves the acquisition,operation,and maintenance of the Donner Lake water
system by the Truckee Donner Public Utility District(District) along with the rehabilitation of the
water system to provide reliable and safe water for domestic use and fire protection.
Finding: It is hereby found that the above named project will not have a significant effect upon
the environment.
Initial An initial study of this project was undertaken and prepared in accordance with
Study: Article V of the District's local environmental guidelines and Section 15063 of the
EIR Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act for the purpose of
ascertaining whether this project might have a significant effect upon the
environment. A copy of such initial study is attached hereto and incorporated herein
by reference. Such initial study documents reasons to support the above finding.
Mitigation The following mitigation measures have been included in the project to avoid
Measures: potentially significant effects:
4a. The District shall obtain written approval from the following agencies for any work
conducted within Donner Lake:
1) State of California Regional Water Quality Control Board-Lahontan
Region
2) United States Army Corp of Engineers
3) California State Lands Commission
5a. Fugitive dust emissions resulting from site clearing and any project improvements shall
be minimized at all times utilizing control measures including dust palliative, regularly
applied water,graveled or paved haul roads,etc. Access or haul roads adjacent to the project
must be treated as necessary to prevent off-site migration and accumulation of dirt,soils,or
other materials which can subsequently become entrained in ambient air, either from
construction related vehicles or from any vehicle using adjacent affected roads.
5b. When transporting material during site preparation or construction, measures shall be
used to prevent materials from spilling or blowing onto street and highways. Earthen
materials,if transported,shall be adequately sprayed with water or covered prior to transport
onto public roads. Vegetative material shall be tarped as necessary prior to transport.
Specific control measures shall be noted on improvement and/or grading plans.
7a. Prepare a professional biological and hydrological study of the project impacts upon fish
habitat/spawning and water quality to be reviewed by the State Department of Fish and Game
field biologists and hydrologists and Lahontan RWQCB. The report will be required to
address the most appropriate time lines for construction considering both impacts and include
specific mitigation measures to mitigate the Project's impacts to fish and water quality to less
than significant levels. Time lines shall consider and avoid construction activity during more
intense use periods of the Donner Lake Village Resort parking area(after July 1). The report
will be reviewed and approved by the State Department of Fish and Game field
biologist/hydrologist and Lahontan RWQCB.
7b. Obtain a Stream/Lakebed Alteration Agreement from the Department of Fish and Game.
7c. Trees removed greater than 6" in diameter at breast height shall be replaced at a ratio of
2:1 and shall consist of evergreen trees. Off-site planting of replacement trees will be
permitted if adequate landscape area is not available within the project site. Replacement tree
locations,species,and sizes shall be detailed on the final project plans. Trees existing within
the 20'easement on the Donner Lake Village Resort property shall be protected and retained
and include a minimum undisturbed area to the distance of the dripline and detailed on the
final site plan.
10a. Construction shall be restricted Monday through Friday, 7:00 am - 6:00 pm and
Saturdays from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Construction plans shall include reference to these
restricted hours of construction.
13a. The District shall prepare a comprehensive lighting plan prior to the installation of any
exterior lighting, to include:
1) Provisions for either automatic turn-off or 50% dimming of project lighting during
non-business hours.
2) Foot candles (light intensity), lamp type and size (white, color-corrected, wattage),
shielding and direction(completely shielded,directed downward),and architectural
fixture design detail (pole, supports,base, colors).
3) Demonstration of no resultant light trespass onto adjacent properties or unnecessary
light pollution.
14a. I£artifacts,paleontological or cultural,or unusual amounts of stone,bone, or shell are
uncovered during construction activity,work shall be halted and a qualified archeologist shall
be consulted for an on-site review. Mitigation measures,as recommended by the archeologist
in accordance with Appendix K of the CEQA Guidelines, shall be implemented prior to
recommencement of construction activity. If any bone appears to be human,California law
mandates that the Nevada County Coroner and the Native American Heritage Commission
be contacted.
Date: By:
Peter L. Holzmeister, General Manager
Truckee Donner Public Utility District
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIAL STUDY
(Prepared pursuant to Article V of the Environmental
Guidelines of the District)
1. Project Title: Donner Lake Water System Acquisition and Rehabilitation
2. Lead Agency Name and Address:
Truckee Donner Public Utility District
P.O. Box 309
Truckee, CA 96160-0309
3. Contact Person and Phone Number:
Peter L. Holzmeister, General Manager
(530) 582-3916
4. Project Location:
Various locations around Donner Lake, Town of Truckee,Nevada County
5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address:
Truckee Donner Public Utility District
P.O. Box 309
Truckee, CA 96160-0309
6. General Plan Designation:
Varies
7. Zoning:
Varies
8. Description of Project: (Describe the whole action involved,including but not limited to later
phases of the project, and any secondary,support, or off-site features necessary for its
implementation.)
Project Purpose
The proposed project involves the acquisition, operation, and maintenance of the Donner Lake water
system by the Truckee Donner Public Utility District(District) along with the rehabilitation of the water
system to provide reliable and safe water for domestic use and fire protection. The purpose of the project
is to improve service to Donner Lake water system customers.
Background
The Donner Lake water system provides service to approximately 1,230 connections composed of
seasonal and year-around residences and businesses. The system is currently supplied by three low
producing hard rock wells, one spring field under the influence of surface water, and one unfiltered lake
water source. The spring field and lake water sources are chlorinated for disinfection.
Presently, the spring field and lake water sources do not meet the minimum safe drinking water standards
as set forth in the Surface Water Treatment Requirements, Chapter 17,Title 22 of the California Code of
Regulations. In October 1991, the State Department of Health Services issued a notice of compliance
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determination informing Donner Lake Water Company that the lake water source did not conform to
acceptable treatment technology. In August 1993, the State Department of Health Services issued a
compliance order requiring the Donner Lake Water Company to fully comply with the California Safe
Drinking Water Act. To date, the system has not been improved to meet surface water treatment
requirements and is still out of compliance with the California Safe Drinking Water Act. Since June
2000,the entire water system has been under a"boil water" order as a result of the State Department of
Health Services determination that chronic low pressure and numerous outages have created an
unacceptable risk of system contamination.
The majority of the existing water system is 40 to 50 years old. Most of the facilities are undersized and
have exceeded their useful life. Distribution pipelines,which range from 2-inch to 8-inch diameter,have
deteriorated excessively to where pipe repairs and leaks are numerous.
Project Characteristics
The acquisition of the Donner Lake water system will include only the physical assets of Donner Lake
Water Company. This would include water system components(pipelines, tanks,pump stations, lake
intake, treatment equipment),records, accounts,property, easements, and water rights.
Following acquisition,the District will provide necessary repairs to the existing system to address the
"boil water"order and reestablish the reliability of the system. The District will then proceed to
rehabilitate the water supply system. Rehabilitation efforts will include repair of existing facilities,
replacement of existing facilities, and construction of new facilities. The District has identified the
existing facilities to be rehabilitated along with the level of effort needed to adequately alleviate the
specific facility's problems. The District will proceed with the system improvements in phases according
to a prioritized list of projects developed by the District. Following completion of the rehabilitation
program, the District will provide ongoing operation and maintenance of the Donner Lake water system.
The rehabilitation of the Donner Lake water system will include the following elements:
Replacement of Southside Tank(210,000 gal)with new Southside Tank(500,000 gal)
Construction of new Southside Hydropneumatic Pump Station (200 gpm domestic/1,000 gpm fire)
Replacement of Greenpoint Springs Tank(60,000 gal) with new Greenpoint Springs Tank(500,000 gal)
Construction of Greenpoint Pump Station(500 gpm)
Replacement of Donner Lake Intake with new Donner Lake Intake and Treatment Plant(1,000 gpm)
Replacement of existing Interstate 80 Casing(8")with new Interstate 80 Casing(24")
Replacement of Biltz Tank(85,000 gal)with new Biltz Tank(100,000 gal)
Replacement of approximately 87,970 feet of 2"-6"pipeline with 8"-12" pipeline.
It is anticipated that the rehabilitation of the Donner Lake water system will take three years to complete
following the acquisition of the system.
The primary component of the system rehabilitation will be the construction of the new treatment plant
and lake intake. The District proposes to construct the treatment plant at the site of the existing Donner
Lake Water Company office and equipment yard rather than the site adjacent to Gregory Creek as
proposed by Donner Lake Water Company. Since the District has its own facilities, it would have no use
for the Donner Lake Water Company offices and yard. Locating the treatment plant as proposed by the
District would eliminate the controversy surrounding potential impacts due to the flooding of Gregory
Creek. Construction of the lake intake would essentially be as proposed by Donner Lake Water Company
including extending the new intake beyond the current intake and construction of the pump station to
provide raw water to the treatment plant.
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The replacement of pipelines will involve construction within existing roads and rights-of-way. Pipeline
replacement construction will be typical of recent District replacement projects involving the installation
of distribution mains, service laterals, water services, fire hydrant assemblies, and valves. Materials and
construction shall be in accordance with current District standards.
Replacement of water storage tanks will involve the removal of existing tanks and construction of new
tanks at the same locations. Tanks will be sized using current District design criteria and include capacity
for domestic, emergency, and fire protection storage. Pump stations will be constructed adjacent to water
storage tanks to take advantage of the properties which are currently being used for water system
facilities.
The District intends to acquire the water rights currently held by Donner Lake Water Company to allow
the use of Donner Lake water as a source of supply. According to the State Department of Health
Services Technical Review Report for State Revolving Fund Application for Donner Lake Water
Company, Donner Lake Water Company has ample water rights to allow diversion of water from Donner
Lake to provide water service to the Donner Lake service area through build-out. The District intends to
utilize the existing water rights including any restrictions and/or conditions which may be attached to
those rights.
Advantages of District Ownership and Operation
The Truckee Donner Public Utility District has been providing water and electric service to the Truckee
community for over 70 years. The District has a proven record of providing water service of the highest
quality.
The District is a public agency whose directors are elected from and by the District's customers, including
those in the Donner Lake area. Being served by a local public agency gives District customers a greater
voice in policy decisions through direct access to their elected representatives on the Board of Directors.
The Donner Lake water service area is already within the District's existing service area with the District
currently providing electric service. It would be a logical progression for the District to provide both
electric and water service to all of the customers within its service area. This would also eliminate a
duplication of effort by reducing the number of providers furnishing the same service within the District's
service area.
The acquisition and operation of the Donner Lake water system will have no adverse affect on the current
District customers. The project will be structured such that the Donner Lake water system customers will
be responsible for providing the resources for the acquisition, rehabilitation, and operation of the system.
Acquisition and operation of the Donner Lake water system will increase the overall customer base of the
District providing greater economies of scale for all District customers.
The District currently has a fully staffed water operations and maintenance department including around
the clock emergency response. The availability of District's extensive resources and experienced staff
will provide a superior level of service to Donner Lake water system customers.
System rehabilitation projects will be designed and constructed to current District standards. This will
ensure adequate domestic and fire protection water service for Donner Lake customers.
As part of the rehabilitation project,the District will install supervisory control and data acquisition
(SCADA) equipment at each of the facilities. The SCADA system allows the District to remotely
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monitor the water system in order to anticipate any possible operational problems and provide timely
response to any emergency conditions.
Becoming a part of the Truckee Donner Public Utility District's water system will allow the Donner Lake
water system to become integrated with the District's system. This will provide system redundancies
which will increase the reliability of the Donner Lake water system.
Disadvantages of District Ownership and Operation
The District will be responsible for a number of large construction contracts to be completed in a
relatively short period of time. The District intends to complete the comprehensive rehabilitation of the
Donner Lake water system within three years of the acquisition.
Upon acquisition of the system, the District will have to devote Water Department staff to the immediate
repairs necessary to reestablish a reliable water system and eliminate the "boil water"order. This may
temporarily shift staff from other needed maintenance activities.
Alternatives to the Proposed Project
No Project-If the District decided not to pursue the proposed project, the Donner Lake system would
continue to be operated by the Donner Lake Water Company. The Donner Lake Water Company has
been under a compliance order issued by the State Department of Health Services to fully comply with
the California Safe Drinking Water Act since August 1993. The system is still out of compliance and
plans to construct a new treatment plant have been further delayed based on the proposed siting of the
plant. Emergency repairs needed to eliminate the"boil water"order have not been completed.
District Sale of Water to Donner Lake Water Company-The District could wholesale water from its
sources to Donner Lake Water Company to replace the unfiltered surface water sources. The District
would have to develop additional new sources of supply to meet the water demands of the Donner Lake
system. The District would also have to provide interconnecting pipelines to transfer water from its
existing system to the Donner Lake system. This may result in delays in providing source water to the
Donner Lake system. In addition,District policy restricts the wholesaling of water for resale within the
District's service area. This is intended to discourage the establishment of competing water service
providers within the District's boundaries.
Neither of the alternatives discussed above offer any advantages over the proposed project in terms of
meeting the project purpose of improving service to the Donner Lake water system customers. Therefore,
the proposed project, District acquisition, operation, and maintenance of the Donner Lake water system,is
considered the preferred alternative.
9. Other agencies whose approval is required:
State of California,Department of Health Services, Office of Drinking Water
California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Lahontan Region
Town of Truckee
State of California Department of Fish and Game
United States Army Corp of Engineers
California State Lands Commission
Truckee Sanitary District
10. Environmental Setting of the Project:
The project involves the Donner Lake area located in the southwestern portion of the Town of Truckee.
Donner Lake is situated on the east slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains at the base of Donner Summit.
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The lake is surrounded by mountainous terrain with steeper topography along the north and south sides of
the lake. The area is heavily treed with various species of native pines and contains many seasonal and
non-seasonal springs,drainages, and creeks which ultimately discharge into Donner Lake.
The lake is mostly surrounded on the north, west, and south by residences, both seasonal and year-around,
and commercial businesses. Donner Lake State Park is located on the east end of the lake. There are
areas of undeveloped land directly abutting the lake including Donner State Park,West End Beach, and
significant portions of the north side of the lake. Additional development potential in the area is limited,
including build-out of existing in-fill areas and some residential acreage near the west end of the lake.
The site of the proposed treatment plant is a commercially zoned parcel currently developed as the office
and equipment yard for Donner Lake Water Company located at the intersection of Donner Pass Road
and Donner Lake Road. The tank replacements and pump stations are located in various developed
residentially zoned areas around the lake. The pipelines to be replaced are located within existing roads
and pipeline rights-of-way. The lake intake will be constructed alongside the existing lake intake
extending into the lake approximately 115' from the low water level. The intake piping will
approximately parallel the existing pipeline from the lake pump station to Donner Pass Road,then along
Donner Pass Road to the proposed treatment plant site.
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Environmental Factors Potentially Affected:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least
one impact that is a"Potentially Significant Impact"or"Potentially Significant Unless Mitigated," as
indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
❑ Land Use and Planning ❑ Transportation/Circulation ❑ Public Services
❑ Population and Housing 0 Biological Resources ❑ Utilities and Service Systems
® Geophysical ❑ Energy and Mineral Resources ® Aesthetics
Water ❑ Hazards ® Cultural Resources
Air Quality ® Noise ❑ Recreation
❑ Mandatory Findings of Significance
Determination.
(To be completed by the Lead Agency.)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, ❑
and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,
there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on the
attached sheets have been added to the project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ❑
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s) on the environment,but at least
one effect 1)has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal
standards, and 2)has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described
on attached sheets, if the effect is a"potentially significant impact'or"potentially significant unless
mitigated." An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required,but it must analyze only the ❑
effects that remain to be addressed.
Signature Date
Peter L. Holzmeister,General Manager Truckee Donner Public Utilitv District
Printed Name For
6
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) "Potentially Significant Impact'is appropriate if an effect is significant or potentially significant,or if the lead
agency lacks information to make a finding of insignificance. If there are one or more"Potentially Significant
Impact'entries when the determination is made,EIR is required.
4) "Potentially Significant Unless Mitigated"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). Earlier analyses
are discussed in Section XVII at the end of the checklist.
6) Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential
impacts(e.g. general plans,zoning ordinances). See the sample question below. A source list should be
attached,and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion.
7) This is only a suggested form,and lead agencies are free to use different ones.
Sample Question:
Potentially
Potentially Significant Less Than
Significant Unless Significant No
Issues(and Supporting Information Sources) Impact Mitigated Impact Impact
Would the proposal result in potential impacts involving:
Landslides or mudslides? (1,6) 0
(Attached source list explains that I is the general plan,
and 6 is a USGS topo map. This answer would probably
not need further explanation.)
I. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the proposal:
a) Conflict with general plan designation or zoning? ❑ ❑
(source#(s): 1)
b) Conflict with applicable environmental plans or
policies adopted by agencies with jurisdiction over the ❑
project? (1)
c) Affect agricultural resources or operations(e.g.
impacts to soils or farmlands,or impacts from
incompatible land uses)? (1)
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Potentially
Potentially Significant Less Than
Significant Unless Significant No
Issues(and supporting Information Sources) Impact Mitigated Impact Impact
II. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the proposal:
a) Cumulatively exceed official regional or local
population projections? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
b) Induce substantial growth in an area either directly or
indirectly (e.g. through projects in an undeveloped
area or extension of major infrastructure)? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
c) Displace existing housing,especially affordable
housing? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
III. GEOPHYSICAL. Would the proposal result in or expose
people to potential impacts involving:
a) Seismicity: fault rupture? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
b) Seismicity: ground shaking or liquefaction? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
c) Seismicity: seiche or tsunami? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
d) Landslides or mudslides? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
e) Erosion,changes in topography or unstable soil
conditions from excavation,grading or fill? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
f) Subsidence of the land? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
g) Expansive soils? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
h) Unique geologic or physical features?(1) ❑ ❑ ❑
IV. WATER. Would the proposal result in:
a) Changes in absorption rates,drainage patterns,or the
rate and amount of surface runoff? (1) ❑ ® ❑ ❑
b) Exposure of people or property to water related
hazards such as flooding? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
c) Discharge into surface waters or other alteration of
surface water quality(e.g.temperature,dissolved
oxygen or turbidity)? (1) ❑ ® ❑ ❑
d) Changes in the amount of surface water in any water
body? (1) ❑ ® ❑ ❑
e) Changes in currents,or the course or direction of
water movements? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
fl Change in the quantity of ground waters,either
through direct additions or withdrawals, or through
interception of an aquifer by cuts or excavations?O ❑ ❑ ❑
g) Altered direction or rate of flow of groundwater?O ❑ ❑ ❑
h) Impacts to groundwater quality? () ❑ ❑ ❑
V. AIR QUALITY. Would the proposal:
a) Violate any air quality standard or contribute to an
existing or projected air quality violation? (1) ❑ ® ❑ ❑
b) Expose sensitive receptors to pollutants? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
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Potentially
Potentially Significant Less Than
Significant Unless Significant No
Issues(and supporting Information Sources) Impact Mitigated Impact Impact
c) Alter air movement,moisture,or temperature,or
cause any change in climate? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
d) Create objectionable odors? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
VI. TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION.
Would the proposal result in:
a) Increased vehicle trips or traffic congestion? (1) ❑ ❑ ® ❑
b) Hazards to safety from design features(e.g.sharp
curves or dangerous intersections)or incompatible
uses(e.g. farm equipment)?(1) ❑ ❑ ❑
c) Inadequate emergency access or access to nearby ❑ ❑ ❑
uses? (1)
d) Insufficient parking capacity on-site or off-site? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
e) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
f) Conflicts with adopted policies supporting alternative
transportation(e.g.bus turnouts,bicycle racks)? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
g) Rail,waterbome or air traffic impacts? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
VII. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES.
Would the proposal result in impacts to:
a) Endangered,threatened or rare species or their habitat
(including but not limited to plants, fish,insects,
animals, and birds)? (1) ❑ ® ❑ ❑
b) Locally designated species(e.g.heritage trees)? (1) ❑ ® ❑ ❑
c) Locally designated natural communities(e.g.oak
forest,costal habitat,etc.)? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
d) Wetland habitat(e.g.marsh,riparian and vernal ❑ ❑
pool)? (1) ❑
e) Wildlife dispersal or migration corridors? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
VIII. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
Would the proposal:
a) Conflict with adopted energy conservation plans? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
b) Use non-renewable resources in a wasteful and
inefficient manner? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
IX. HAZARDS. Would the proposal involve:
a) A risk of accidental explosion or release of hazardous
substances(including,but not limited to: oil,
pesticides,chemicals or radiation)? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
b) Possible interference with an emergency response ❑ ❑
plan or emergency evacuation plan? (1) ❑
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Potentially
Potentially Significant Less Than
Significant Unless Significant No
Issues(and supporting Information Sources) Impact Mitigated Impact Impact
c) The creation of any health hazard or potential health ❑ ❑ ❑
hazard? (1) ❑
d) Exposure of people to existing sources of potential ❑ ❑
health hazards? (1)
e) Increased fire hazard in areas with flammable brush, ❑ ❑ ❑
grass,or trees? (1)
X. NOISE. Would the proposal result in:
a) Increases in existing noise levels? (1) ❑ ❑ ® ❑
b) Exposure of people to severe noise levels? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
XI. PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the proposal have an effect
upon, or result in a need for new or altered government
services in any of the following areas:
a) Fire protection? (1) ❑ ❑ ® ❑
b) Police protection? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
c) Schools? (1) ❑ ❑ ❑
d) Maintenance of public facilities,including roads? (1) ❑ ❑
e) Other governmental services? (1) ❑ ❑
XII. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the
proposal result in a need for new systems, or substantial
alterations to the following utilities:
a) Power or natural gas?(1) 0 ❑
b) Communications systems. (1)
c) Local or regional water treatment or distribution
facilities? (1) ❑ ❑
d) Sewer or septic tanks?(1) ❑
e) Storm water drainage?(1) ❑ ❑
f) Solid waste disposal?(1) ❑ ❑ ❑
XIII.AESTHETICS. Would the proposal:
a) Affect a scenic vista or scenic highway?(1) 0 0LI
L ❑
b) Have a demonstrable negative aesthetic effect?(1) ® ❑ ❑
c) Create light or glare? (1) ❑
XIV. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal: ❑ ❑
a) Disturb paleontological resources?(1) ❑ ❑ ❑
b) Disturb archaeological resources? (1) ❑ ® ❑ ❑
c) Affect historical resources? (1) ❑
d) Have the potential to cause a physical change which ❑
would affect unique ethnic culture values?(1) ❑ ❑
®
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Potentially
Potentially Significant Less Than
Significant Unless Significant No
Issues(and supporting Information Sources) Impact Mitigated Impact Impact
e) Restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the
potential impact area?(1) ® O ❑
XV. RECREATION. Would the proposal:
a) Increase the demand for neighborhood or regional
parks or other recreational facilities?(1)
b) Affect existing recreational opportunities?(1)
XVI.MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE.
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the
quality of the environment,substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species,cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining
levels,threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community,reduce the number or restrict the range of
a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate
important examples of the major periods of California
history or prehistory?
b) Does the project have the potential to achieve short-
term,to the disadvantage of long-term,environmental
goals?
c) Does the project 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 0
probable future projects.)
d) Does the project have environmental effects which
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings,either directly or indirectly?
XVIL EARLIER ANALYSIS.
Earlier analyses may be used where,pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, one
or more effects have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section
15063(c)(3)(D). In this case a discussion should identify the following on attached sheets:
a) Earlier analyses used. (Identify earlier analyses and state where they are available for
review.)
This initial study uses the Initial Study/Proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Donner
Lake Comprehensive Water System Improvement prepared by the Town of Truckee, Community
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Development Department on behalf of the Donner Lake Water Company. This report,which was
completed in February 2000, addresses many of the same site-specific issues related to the system
rehabilitation being proposed by the District. The elements of the comprehensive water system
improvements proposed by Donner Lake Water Company are in many respects the same as those
being proposed by the District. To the extent that the two proposed projects are comparable, the
earlier analysis prepared by the Town of Truckee adequately addresses those issues common to both
projects.
b) Impacts adequately addressed. (Identify which effects from the above checklist were within
the scope of and adequately analyzed by the earlier document.)
Because of the similarities between the Donner Lake Comprehensive Water System Improvement
project and the District's proposed rehabilitation project, the earlier analysis adequately addresses
aspects of the District's proposed project in each of the checklist categories. Site specific,
construction related effects of the rehabilitation project are within the scope and adequately
analyzed by the earlier document where the facilities proposed under the two projects are similarly
located. Since the treatment plant site as proposed by the District is an existing developed site
rather than the undeveloped site adjacent to Gregory Creek as proposed in the earlier document,the
site specific, construction related effects of that aspect of the earlier document are not applicable to
this initial study.
c) Mitigation measures. (For effects that are"potentially significant" or"potentially significant
unless mitigated",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.)
The following mitigation measures are included and/or refined from the earlier document:
4a. The District shall obtain written approval from the following agencies for any work conducted
within Donner Lake:
1) State of California Regional Water Quality Control Board -Lahoman Region
2) United States Army Corp of Engineers
3) California State Lands Commission
5a. Fugitive dust emissions resulting from site clearing and any project improvements shall be
minimized at all times utilizing control measures including dust palliative,regularly applied water,
graveled or paved haul roads, etc. Access or haul roads adjacent to the project must be treated as
necessary to prevent off-site migration and accumulation of dirt, soils, or other materials which can
subsequently become entrained in ambient air, either from construction related vehicles or from any
vehicle using adjacent affected roads.
5b. When transporting material during site preparation or construction, measures shall be used to
prevent materials from spilling or blowing onto street and highways. Earthen materials, if
transported, shall be adequately sprayed with water or covered prior to transport onto public roads.
Vegetative material shall be tarped as necessary prior to transport. Specific control measures shall
be noted on improvement and/or grading plans.
7a. Prepare a professional biological and hydrological study of the project impacts upon fish
habitat/spawning and water quality to be reviewed by the State Department of Fish and Game field
biologists and hydrologists and Lahontan RWQCB. The report will be required to address the most
appropriate time lines for construction considering both impacts and include specific mitigation
measures to mitigate the Project's impacts to fish and water quality to less than significant levels.
Time lines shall consider and avoid construction activity during more intense use periods of the
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Donner Lake Village Resort parking area(after July 1). The report will be reviewed and approved
by the State Department of Fish and area
field biologist/hydrologist and Lahontan RWQCB.
7b. Obtain a StreamlLakebed Alteration Agreement from the Department of Fish and Game.
7c. Trees removed greater than 6" in diameter at breast height shall be replaced at a ratio of 2:1 and
shall consist of evergreen trees. Off-site planting of replacement trees will be permitted if adequate
landscape area is not available within the project site. Replacement tree locations, species, and
sizes shall be detailed on the final project plans. Trees existing within the 20' easement on the
Donner Lake Village Resort property shall be protected and retained and include a minimum
undisturbed area to the distance of the dripline and detailed on the final site plan.
10a. Construction shall be restricted Monday through Friday, 7:00 am- 6:00 pm and Saturdays
from 10:00 am- 5:00 pm. Construction plans shall include reference to these restricted hours of
construction.
13a. The District shall prepare a comprehensive lighting plan prior to the installation of any
exterior lighting, to include:
1) Provisions for either automatic turn-off or 50%dimming of project lighting during non-
business hours.
2) Foot candles(light intensity), lamp type and size(white, color-corrected,wattage), shielding
and direction (completely shielded, directed downward), and architectural fixture design
detail (pole, supports, base, colors).
3) Demonstration of no resultant light trespass onto adjacent properties or unnecessary light
pollution.
14a. If artifacts,paleontological or cultural, or unusual amounts of stone,bone, or shell are
uncovered during construction activity, work shall be halted and a qualified archeologist shall be
consulted for an on-site review. Mitigation measures, as recommended by the archeologist in
accordance with Appendix K of the CEQA Guidelines, shall be implemented prior to
recommencement of construction activity. If any bone appears to be human, California law
mandates that the Nevada County Coroner and the Native American Heritage Commission be
contacted.
EXPLANATION OF CHECKLIST ANSWERS
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.
I. LAND USE AND PLANNING
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section X-VII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Land Use and Planning issues.
The Earlier Analysis prepared by the Town of Truckee provides an Impact Discussion on General Plan
Consistency, Zoning Consistency, and Existing Land Use. This discussion is applicable to the
District's proposed project with the following modifications.
The treatment plant is proposed to be located within a C (commercial) General Plan land use
designation. A public utility use of this type does not present any conflict with this specific General
Plan land use designation. Because of the location of the treatment plant, a portion of the raw water
transmission pipeline proposed in the Earlier Analysis to cross an existing parking area owned and
maintained by Donner Lake Village Resort north of Donner Pass Road will be eliminated from the
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project. Other aspects of the District's proposed rehabilitation project are consistent with the
discussions, conclusions, and recommendations in the Earlier Analysis.
The acquisition and subsequent operation and maintenance of the water system by the District is not
expected to have any affect on land use and planning issues.
Mitigation Measures: See Biological Resources, Mitigation Measure 7a.
Mitigation Monitoring: See Biological Resources,Mitigation Measure 7a,
IL POPULATION AND HOUSING
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Population and Housing issues.
The Donner Lake water system serves approximately 1,230 existing customers,both residential and
commercial, with an estimated potential 1,800 customers at build-out. The water system service area
is currently under a building moratorium due to the inadequacies of the water system and the current
"boil water" order. No new building permits will be issued for the area until the reliability of the water
system can be reestablished.
The project as proposed will accommodate the continued development of the Donner Lake water
system service area consistent with the population and housing elements of the Town's general plan.
The project does have the potential to serve a population greater than the current population in
accordance with the general plan. The project will not extend service into areas not already served by
the system. Although the project will accommodate growth, it is not considered to either directly or
indirectly induce growth. Growth in the Donner Lake area is limited due to physical factors including
local geography and the Interstate 80 corridor. Water service would be made available to undeveloped
areas only after complying with all other planning, land use, and environmental requirements imposed
by the appropriate jurisdictional agencies.
Mitigation Measures: None required
Mitigation Monitoring: None required
III. GEOPHYSICAL
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Geologic Problem issues.
The Earlier Analysis includes a discussion of issues related to the construction of the treatment plant
on an undeveloped parcel adjacent to Gregory Creek. Because of the location of the treatment plant
proposed by the District, these issues are not applicable to this initial study.
The project will require a modest amount of grading to prepare the existing tank sites for the
construction of larger diameter tanks and pump station building pads. Because the treatment plant site
is already developed as an office, little grading is anticipated. Pipeline construction will involve
excavation of trenches. As is standard with all District construction projects of this type, grading and
excavations will include temporary erosion controls and surface restoration either with paving or other
permanent erosion control measures.
Mitigation Measures: See Water discussion and mitigation measures
Mitigation Monitoring: See Water discussion and mitigation measures
IV. RATER
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Water issues.
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The Earlier Analysis includes a discussion of potential impacts associated with the treatment plant
based on its proximity to Gregory Creek. Because of the location of the treatment plant proposed by
the District, this portion of the Earlier Analysis should be disregarded. Other impact discussion issues
including the Donner Lake Pump/Intake are applicable to this initial study.
The construction of the lake intake will include significant disturbance within Donner Lake. The lake
intake will extend approximately 115' from the edge of the lake at low water level to be set at a depth
of approximately 50'below the low water level. A portion of the lake intake piping will be buried
within the lake as it transitions from the lake to the pump station. Impacts to Donner Lake water are
considered potentially significant unless mitigated. Prior to disturbance of Donner Lake, the District
will be required to obtain a waste discharge permit or waiver from the Lahontan RWQCB. Specific
mitigation measures will be imposed upon the permit approval or waiver to address water quality
issues. The project will be required to comply with the waste discharge and water quality standards of
the Lahontan RWQCB,ensuring the project will not have a significant on Donner Lake water quantity
or quality.
Construction of pipelines and site preparation for tank and pump station construction have the potential
to impact water resources by off-site erosion during storm events. As is standard with all District
projects of this type, contract documents will include the requirements of the Lahontan RWQCB
Truckee River Hydrologic Unit Guidelines for Erosion Control and Best Management Practices.
Mitigation Measures:
4a. The District shall obtain written approval from the following agencies for any work conducted
within Donner Lake:
1) State of California Regional Water Quality Control Board-Lahontan Region
2) United States Army Corp of Engineers
3) California State Lands Commission
Mitigation Monitoring: District Water Superintendent, District Civil Engineer- Written approval to
be obtained prior to site disturbance. District to be responsible for including conditions of approvals in
construction specifications.
V. AIR QUALITY
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section mi of this Initial Study far a detailed discussion of
Air Quality issues.
Construction activities have the potential to generate PM10 emissions through the release of fugitive
dust associated with grading and excavation activities.
Mitigation Measures:
5a. Fugitive dust emissions resulting from site clearing and any project improvements shall be
minimized at all times utilizing control measures including dust palliative, regularly applied water,
graveled or paved haul roads, etc. Access or haul roads adjacent to the project must be treated as
necessary to prevent off-site migration and accumulation of dirt,soils, or other materials which can
subsequently become entrained in ambient air, either from construction related vehicles or from any
vehicle using adjacent affected roads.
5b. When transporting material during site preparation or construction, measures shall be used to
prevent materials from spilling or blowing onto street and highways. Earthen materials, if transported,
shall be adequately sprayed with water or covered prior to transport onto public roads. Vegetative
material shall be tarped as necessary prior to transport. Specific control measures shall be noted on
improvement and/or grading plans.
15
Mitigation Monitoring: District Civil Engineer- District to be responsible for including air quality
mitigation measures in construction specifications and monitoring compliance during construction.
VI. TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section AVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Transportation/Circulation issues.
During construction there will be an increase in vehicle trips to the project site associated with the
contractor's activities. District operation and maintenance of the water system will involve additional
service truck trips to the various facilities. This would be similar to the number service truck trips
discussed in the earlier analysis. This is considered a less than significant impact.
Mitigation Measures: None required
Mitigation Monitoring:None required
VII. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section AVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Biological Resource issues.
Discussion of biological resources in the Earlier Analysis focuses primarily on Fish Habitat and
Spawning and Tree Preservation and Protection. The concerns regarding fish habitat and spawning are
applicable to this initial study since it involves the construction of the lake intake as proposed. Tree
preservation is primarily associated with the treatment plant as proposed in the Earlier Analysis and
does not apply to the treatment plant site proposed by the District.
The Earlier Analysis identified conflicts between Department of Fish and Game guidelines for fish
spawning, the need to construct the lake pump and intake at a time when low lake levels would
minimize impacts to water quality, and the use of the Donner Lake Village Resort parking area. In
order to balance these potential impacts, a report is recommended requiring the applicant to have a
professional biological/hydrological study of the impacts upon fish habitats and spawning and water
quality to be reviewed by the State Department of Fish and Game biologist and hydrologist and the
Lahontan RWQCB. The report will be required to address the most appropriate time lines for
construction considering both potential impacts and include specific mitigation measure to mitigate the
project's impacts to fish and water quality to less than significant levels.
Mitigation Measures:
7a. Prepare a professional biological and hydrological study of the project impacts upon fish
habitat/spawning and water quality to be reviewed by the State Department of Fish and Game field
biologists and hydrologists and Lahontan RWQCB. The report will be required to address the most
appropriate time lines for construction considering both impacts and include specific mitigation
measures to mitigate the Project's impacts to fish and water quality to less than significant levels.
Time lines shall consider and avoid construction activity during more intense use periods of the
Donner Lake Village Resort parking area(after July 1). The report will be reviewed and approved by
the State Department of Fish and Game field biologist/hydrologist and Lahontan RWQCB.
7b. Obtain a Stream/Lakebed Alteration Agreement from the Department of Fish and Game.
7c. Trees removed greater than 6" in diameter at breast height shall be replaced at a ratio of 2:1 and
shall consist of evergreen trees. Off-site planting of replacement trees will be permitted if adequate
landscape area is not available within the project site. Replacement tree locations, species,and sizes
shall be detailed on the final project plans. Trees existing within the 20' easement on the Donner Lake
Village Resort property shall be protected and retained and include a minimum undisturbed area to the
distance of the dripline and detailed on the final site plan.
16
Mitigation Monitoring: District Water Superintendent, District Civil Engineer- Report to be
completed and approved by Department of Fish and Game prior to any site disturbance, specific
mitigations to be included in contract specifications. Stream/Lakebed Alteration Agreement to be
obtained prior to site disturbance. Trees to be removed and replaced to be indicated on project plans.
VIII. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Energy and Mineral Resource issues.
Mitigation Measures: None required
Mitigation Monitoring: None required
IX. HAZARDS
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Hazard issues.
Mitigation Measures: None required
Mitigation Monitoring: None required
X. NOISE
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Noise issues.
The project will not result in any long-term increase in noise levels,but will increase noise levels
temporarily associated with construction activities. Restricting hours of operation will mitigate short
term construction noise impacts to less than significant levels.
Mitigation Measures:
10a. Construction shall be restricted Monday through Friday, 7:00 am- 6:00 pm and Saturdays from
10:00 am-5:00 pm. Construction plans shall include reference to these restricted hours of
construction.
Mitigation Monitoring: District Civil Engineer-District responsible for including conditions in
construction plans,monitoring for compliance during construction.
XI. PUBLIC SERVICES
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Public Service issues.
The project will be an enhancement to the fire protection capabilities around the Donner Lake area.
Mitigation Measures: None required
Mitigation Monitoring: None required
XII. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Utility and Service System issues.
Acquisition of the Donner Lake water system represents a significant increase in service area and water
customers. Operation and maintenance of the system will require additional resources including
personnel and equipment. Because of the condition of the existing system, a considerable effort will
be required by the water department crews to reestablish the reliability of the system and eliminate the
"boil water"order. The District has a successful track record of system repairs and rehabilitation
projects completed by District forces. The District also has access to outside contractors working
17
under the direction of the water department to help with repair projects. This is considered a less than
significant impact.
Mitigation Measures: None required
Mitigation Monitoring:None required
XIII. AESTHETICS
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Aesthetics issues.
The Earlier Analysis includes discussions focusing on new water storage tanks and the treatment plant.
Tree removal issues associated with the treatment plant site are not applicable to this initial study,
however issues related to tank and building colors and building lighting are applicable. The site of the
treatment plant as proposed by the District will also pose a potential impact with respect to fight and
glare.
Mitigation Measures:
13a. The District shall prepare a comprehensive lighting plan prior to the installation of any exterior
lighting,to include:
1) Provisions for either automatic turn-off or 50%dimming of project lighting during non-
business hours.
2) Foot candles (light intensity), lamp type and size (white, color-corrected,wattage), shielding
and direction(completely shielded, directed downward), and architectural fixture design
detail (pole, supports,base, colors).
3) Demonstration of no resultant light trespass onto adjacent properties or unnecessary light
pollution.
Mitigation Monitoring: District Civil Engineer- Conditions of the lighting plan will be included in
contract plans and specifications.
XIV. CULTURAL RESOURCES
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Cultural Resource issues.
The Earlier Analysis focuses cultural resource concerns on the currently undeveloped site proposed for
the treatment plant. The treatment plant as proposed by the District is on a currently developed parcel
with a very low potential for significant cultural resource impacts. Because there is a possibility of
uncovering significant resources during grading and excavation activities, mitigation measures have
been developed to protect these resources.
Mitigation Measures:
14a. If artifacts,paleontological or cultural, or unusual amounts of stone, bone, or shell are uncovered
during construction activity, work shall be halted and a qualified archeologist shall be consulted for an
on-site review. Mitigation measures, as recommended by the archeologist in accordance with
Appendix K of the CEQA Guidelines, shall be implemented prior to recommencement of construction
activity. If any bone appears to be human,California law mandates that the Nevada County Coroner
and the Native American Heritage Commission be contacted.
Mitigation Monitoring: District Civil Engineer-Conditions of this mitigation measure will be
included in contract specifications and implemented, if necessary, by the District during construction.
18
XV. RECREATION
See the Earlier Analysis as described in Section XVII of this Initial Study for a detailed discussion of
Recreation issues.
Mitigation Measures: None required
Mitigation Monitoring: None required
XVL MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
The determinations of mandatory findings of significance are supported by the discussions contained
within the Initial Study. The Initial Study did not identify any potentially significant effects, and there
is no substantial evidence that the project may have a significant effect on the environment.
REPORT PREPARATION
This Initial Study was prepared under contract with the Truckee Donner Public Utility District by Sauers
Engineering, Inc. Principal author was Keith Knibb.
Prepared by:
tiic i Date: 9—Zy —00
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REFERENCES
These references are available for review at the Truckee Donner Public Utility District office, 11570 Donner
Pass Road,Truckee, California.
1. Initial Study/Proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration for Donner Lake Comprehensive Water System
Improvement, Town of Truckee, February 2, 2000.
2. Technical Review Report for State Revolving Fund Application for Donner Lake Water Company a
Subsidiary of Del Oro Water Company, State Department of Health Services, August 17, 1999.
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