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Board meeting dates – 2019 First Monday of the month generally
EBMUD Headquarters 500 San Pablo Dam Road, Orinda
January 8 February 4 March 4 April 1 May 6 June 3 July 1 September 9 October 7 November 4 December2
MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD, JUNE 3, 2019
Meeting called to order at 9:30 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Joe, Reg, Marty, Glen, Jerry, Helen.
AGENDA approved. MINUTES approved with clarification that Joe’s white paper addressed issues raised by the Leonard Dicaprio Foundation regarding tree thinning as well as carbon sequestration.
TREASURER”S REPORT: $2,422.16 minus recent expenditure of $152.00 for annual meeting expenses.
EBRPD TRAILS- (Sierra Club Committee white paper) Helen stated short version is the Committee is asking EBRPD to abide by Ord.38 with only designated use on all trails. Explicit maps and signage. STEP will meet to discuss prior to the paper being presented to Sierra Public Lands Committee. Jerry emphasized that EBRPD should be more specific about all trails and added that the Environmental Roundtable will discuss trails with EBRPD. Helen asked that we write a letter of support for the Sierra Club’s Trails Position paper once it is finalized. MSP to send such letter. Glen commented that the language of Ordinance 38 wasn’t being followed in practice and should be changed.
UPDATE ON NORTH ORINDA FIRE BREAK (NOFB) Reg met with Orinda Sup’t. of schools regarding the impact of NOFB on the Wagner Ranch Nature Area. She has not signed off and will be involved in the process now . Prior to her meeting with Reg she was letting the head of maintenance represent the School District. Reg proposed that he would supervise any tree or vegetation removal in the Nature Area. He will be on the ground tree by tree, and sees NOFB as a chance for the area to rid itself of eucs and dying pines. Glen met with the environmental firm, Sequoia of Danville, which will be overseeing NOFB and coordinating input from specialists regarding the flora and fauna impacted by NOFB. One specialist from each field from each agency will be hired. Jerry added that $4,000,000 has been designated for the project. RPA’s concern is that ongoing maintenance for NOFB has not been discussed or funded. Hopefully Cal Fire will fund.
AB 38. The Assembly Appropriations Committee stripped and gutted the bill, removing theprovision for a fire prevention board. It will be rewritten and appear next year.
REDWOOD PLAQUE constructed by Save the Redwoods League. (SRL) The age of the tree depicted by its rings was the subject of concern raised by a guest at our Annual Meeting. Joe did his own calculations (by counting the rings in the picture !!) and determined that the tree is in fact 2,000 years old. He recommended that the last line of text on the plaque be removed so that the plaque simply states “the size of the rings has been exaggerated for clarity.” Jerry will talk to Brenda about a possible correction.
SRL POSITION ON THINNING REDWOODS TO ACCELERATE GROWTH: Joe prepared and distributed a three -page document describing and illustrating the characteristics of (1) Old growth redwood stands (20 second growth and (3) 3rd and 4th growth stands. The SRL proposal for redwood groves on EBRPD land is to thin the trees to accelerate growth on remaining trees. There are many negatives to this proposal and in Joe’s opinion the overarching one is the soil compaction that would result from the use of heavy equipment involved in tree thinning. Also, understory growth would be adversely affected by thinning. Joe thoroughly documented his findings and recommended that RPA oppose SRL’s position, concluding that studies show that 2nd growth redwoods in the Bay Area are proceeding to old growth on their own by natural thinning. MSP to send a letter to EBRPD against SRL’s thinning proposal.
LDF- New Direction for California WILDFIRE POLICY.- LDF-THE Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation to promote conservation. This organization has issued a report promoting its own arguments against fuel reduction regarding what California should do to prevent future conflagrations. Basically the Foundation equates fuel reduction with thinning (using the perjorative term “logging”) and but does support fuel breaks, defensible space and structure “hardening”. Joe has drafted a letter to Bob Doyle after writing a thorough analysis of the LDF report the letter concludes that we support EBRPD’s policies of fuel reduction along with fire hardening of structures. MSP to send Joe’s letter with Amelia’s signature. Joe ’s white paper will be used at UC Berkeley to counter the DiCaprio report.
OTHER. PESTICIDE USE IN EBRPD PARKS: Marty opened a discussion on EBRPD’s use of pesticides by displaying two photos documenting recent pesticide use in Las Trampas and Briones. In Briones, Roundup was used and in Briones, Milestone and Competitor. This will be a topic for future discussion.
CARROLL WILLIAMS. MSP to honor Carroll by designating him Ex- Officio Board Member.
P.O. BOX will be moved to Orinda.
Meeting adjourned 10:50
NEXT MEETING JULY 1 9:30 AT WATERSHED HEADQUARTERS
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MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETING-MAY 6, 2019
Meeting called to order at 9:35 by president Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Joe, Jerry, Reg, Glen, Helen , Marty. GUEST: Seth Adams, Land Conservation Director for Save Mt. Diablo.
Minutes approved. Agenda approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $2,192.16. MSP to pay $152. 62 to Amelia for expenses for Annual Meeting.
PRESENTATION-SETH ADAMS- CONCORD NAVAL WEAPONS STATION AREA and adjacent open space property. Seth touched on Deer Valley, Clayton Ranch, and Sand Hill open space areas which will eventually have public access, as well as properties acquired on Morgan Territory and Marsh Creek Roads by Save Mount Diablo and East Contra Costa habitat Conservation District. CNWS has 5,000 acres. Mt Diablo Creek and adjacent lands harbor a variety of native species including the San Joaquin Kit fox. Bunkers have been removed. Seth feels that the ridge line is the most environmentally sensitive area and is concerned that the City of Pittsburg may approve a huge development adjacent to it. Original plans for CNWS included a road connecting Kirker Pass road to Willow Pass Road and a lot more development that the last recession eliminated. The plan adopted in 2012 calls for 69% open space, with most of the development near BART and along a 4 mile linear corridor to the south. It will include 25 % affordable housing and clustered homes. Seth added that he hopes EBRPD will pursue grassland restoration on CNWS property
ANNUAL MEETING All THINGS REDWOOD RECAP: 60 in attendance. Joe will investigate the age of tree depicted in plaque in Redwood R. P. that one of the attendees questioned.
EBRPD COMMITTEE REPORTS- prepared by Amelia Marshall. Highlights: Shoreline parks saw 4.9 million visitors last year. There are new additions at Crown Beach and Miller Knox.
Snowy plovers have successfully nested at Crown Beach. Graffiti and vandalism continue to be a problem at shoreline parks and abandoned boats have to be dealt with. There have been problems with the concessionaire at the Tilden Merry Go Round but they are being resolved.
OTHER: PROPOSED JUDI BANK TRAIL: MSP RPA write a letter in support of said trail to Director Ayn Wieskamp.
Reg will investigate the apparent effect of NOFB on Wagner Ranch Nature area and meet with Orinda schools superintendent.
Jerry mentioned AB38 which would set up a state wildfire board. Joe is going to write a letter on carbon sequestering. A Sierra club committee has been convened to study and makerecommendations on trail use.
NEXT MEETING JUNE 3 AT WATERSHED HEADQUARTERS.
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD-APRIL 1, 2019
Meeting called to order at 9:35 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Jerry, Joe, Reg, Glen, Jo Ann, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll, Helen.
AGENDA approved. MINUTES approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $2,192.16.
GUEST: DAVE WINNAKER,CHIEF, MORAGA ORINDA FIRE DEPARTMENT presenting information on the NORTH ORINDA FIRE BREAK.( NOFB).
The Chief explained that cap and trade funds will be used for this project, one of only two currently approved by Cal Fire (other one adjacent to Highway 17 in the Santa Cruz mtns. The general route of the NOFB will begin at Acalanes High School, ascend Lafayette Ridge, continue up and across Happy Valley Rd to Bear Creek Rd where it will descend, partially entering the Wagner Ranch Nature Area, cross San Pablo Dam Rd and proceed into Tilden along Nimitz Way . The first installment of the project will be on EBMUD land in the Bear Creek area as EBMUD has already approved it for their lands. EBRPD, Orinda and Acalanes School Districts, and private landholders have yet to approve. The purpose of NOFB is to create a shaded fuel break and clean up the understory by controlled burn. No large scale tree removal of canopy. Attention to be paid to native flora and fauna and biologists from EBMUD and EBRPD will weigh in and assure that no nesting birds will be disturbed. It is likely that the Calif. Dept. of Fish and Wildlife will be involved. The project falls under existing Habitat Conservation Plans/EIRS, and no new roads will be built, the Chief stated. There is no official project map yet and won’t be until all stakeholders have signed off. Reg is very concerned about the project’s impact on the Wagner Ranch Nature Area, which he helped create and has been involved with for many years. RPA shares his concern and is waiting to see what accommodations will be made in this project for Wagner Ranch Nature Area.
ANNUAL MEETING: Plans for April 7 were finalized and assignments given. Jerry has made posterboards featuring Aurelia Reinhardt and Joe Engbeck which will be put on display in addition to the speakers Amelia has lined up.
MSP- AURELIA REINHARDT RESOLUTION: It was MSP that the Board of Directors of the Regional Parks Association go on record as supporting the process of renaming Redwood
Regional as the AURELIA REINHARDT REDWOODS REGIONAL PARK in honor and remembrance of her service in the early days of EBRPD as well as her legacy as an educator and advocate of world peace.
OTHER: Jo Ann will be in touch with Amelia Marshall for her notes on EBRPD committee meetings.
Later that day, a request came for RPA to encourage the Town of Moraga City Council to support the acquisition of the Painted Rock property in Moraga by John Muir Land Trust, and contribute to the purchase of that land acquisition. MSP to send letter to Town council urging the Town’s financial contribution. A second item for RPA to contribute $100 to JMLT toward purchase of the Painted Rocks property was also MSP. Both motions were done via email and according to RPA guidelines.
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MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETING MARCH 4 2019
Meeting called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Jerry, Joe, Reg, Glenn,
Marty.ABSENT: Carroll, Helen. guest: Jo Ann Gillespie.
AGENDA APPROVED. MINUTES APPROVED WITH CORRECTION.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $2, 072.16 includes $85.00 from dues from new and renewed members.
GUEST JO ANN GILLESPIE: Jo Ann is the vice -president of the Metropolitan Horseman’s Association and also belong to the Horseman’s Associations of Martinez, Moraga and Orinda.
Jo Ann grew up in Orinda and owns Rawking Horse Ranch in Briones. She presented the idea of bicyclists having access to bells (provided in a basket at major trail heads) for use while riding, making trails safer for all. She frequently is out on the trails on her horse and believes in separate trails . She will attend RPA Board meetings as her work schedule permits.
TRAILS: Brian Holt has set no date for meeting of the newly established trail committee.
BRIONES: Marty brought up the poor condition of the group camps Wa Ti Chi and Maude Whalen in Briones. Water systems down, restrooms closed, shelters graffitied and trashed.
Jerry will look into this. (NOTE: Marty subsequently went on line and it appears EBRPD plans
to renovate these facilities in the near future with Measure AA funds and make Maud Whalen
ADA accessible.)
ANNUAL MEETING APRIL 7, 9:30 at TEMESCAL BEACH HOUSE-UPDATE: Save the Redwoods will have a Native American to talk on the Native American perspective on redwoods. Amelia Marshall will give an 8 minute presentation on the history of logging in the east bay hills. Dee Rosario will bring us up to date on EBRPD’s involvement to protect the redwoods. Save the Redwoods League will give the major presentation, celebrating their 100th birthday and give copies of Joe Enbeck’s book to all. A showing of Stan Dodson short film. “Old Survivor”.
Glen is asking that a sign-up sheet be provided for a hike he will lead in Leona Canyon in May to see “Old Survivor”.
So far we have 50 RSVP’s including 3 EBRPD staff and Board.
LUPA REPORTS: .BLACK DIAMOND-Marty stated that from her research 5,000 acres will be opened to the public, doubling the size of the park.
EBRPD COMMITTEE REPORTS FROM AMELIA MARSHALL were passed out. We are
grateful to her for assuming Judi’s role.
NEXT MEETING APRIL 1 9:30 a.m. at Watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD-FEBRUARY 4. 2019
Meeting called to order at 9:45 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Jerry, Joe, Helen, Glen,
Reg, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll.
AGENDA APPROVED with additions. MINUTES approved with correction.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $1,987.16.
TRAILS (and LUPAS ) REPORTS : Helen says that Trails Advisory Committee may start up in March. Glen reported on the Las Trampas LUPA. 700 acres have been added between Crow Canyon and Bollinger Canyon Roads. Bicyclists have been
weighing in on trail use at the public meetings. Jerry stated that although EBRPD has bought a house at the edge of Las Trampas, public access won’t happen for a long time due mostly to the condition of the road. Helen reported on the Miller Knox LUPA. Helen stated that the Sierra
Club ’s Public Lands group has members who are following up on the various LUPAS . She will
provide us their contact info. Amelia and Reg will do Concord Hills and to that end will invite
Seth Adams of Save Mt. Diablo to our next meeting. Marty reported on the LUPA for Black
Diamond which includes adding several new trailheads and staging areas including Arata Ranch and Clayton Ranch . Additional picnic sites and a walk- in camp are also included, plus
infrastructure repairs.
ANNUAL MEETING SUNDAY APRIL 7.
Save the Redwoods League is providing FREE copies of Joe Engbeck’s book Saving the
Redwoods. Invitations to all EBRPD Board members, EBRPD staff, and East Bay environmental organizations as she has done in the past.
GRAZING: Marty opened the discussion by stating that the guidelines stated in EBRPD’s
Wildland Management Policies in no way match practice and if continued in their current state
there will be no oak woodlands left in 100 years. Glen gave very interesting information on how
fossilized grass determined where early grassland existed and how it has increased over the
years due to factors including but not limited to grazing. He thinks a good solution to this
problem is to carefully manage selected areas long- term with the goal of restoration to oak
woodland. OTHER:.
.EBMUD IPM MEETING. Marty and Glen attended. Lots of policy documentation
emphasis. Meeting got hijacked by those against any and all pesticide use. EBMUD used a pie
chart to show what a small portion of their IPM program involved pesticides but did not state the
amount used. It is used primarily adjacent to water pipes to control roots getting in. HIKE TO
SEE OLD REDWOOD: Glen volunteered to lead a hike up Leona Canyon to see the oldest
redwood in the East Bay. JUDI MEMORIAL: MSP for RPA to give $100 to the Regional Parks
Foundation in Judi’s memory. There will probably be a trail to honor Judi.
MEETING ADJOURNED 11:15 NEXT MEETING MARCH 4 9:30 at Watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD-JANUARY 7, 2019
A few moments of silence and reflection on the life of Judi Bank, long-time RPA board member,
were held. Judi passed away suddenly in December. A letter of condolence to Judi’s husband Peter was signed by all present. A Celebration of Life for Judi will be held Jan 27, 2019 at Dunsmuir House beginning at 2 p.m. Judi will be well-remembered for her
advocacy for equestrians and the environment.
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MEETING called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Glen, Jerry, Joe,
Helen, Reg, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll. GUEST: Bill Hudson,.
MINUTES APPROVED
AGENDA approved
TREASURER’S REPORT; $1,887.16 on hand, not counting today’s addition of dues.
SIBLEY LUPA REPORT: The best thing to come out of this is the formation of a Trails
Committee. Ana Alvarez will be overseeing the creek restoration project.
UPCOMING LUPAS: Helen passed out info on upcoming LUPAS to be released for the following
parks: MILLER/KNOX: to be released end of January for approval BLACK DIAMOND: mid
2019.COYOTE HILLS: (Patterson Ranch addition only)DEIR and LUPA being
finalized. Expected release early 2019. CONCORD HILLS : DEIR and LUPA released early to
mid 2019, dependent on completion of property transfer from Navy to EBRPD. SOUTHERN
LAS TRAMPAS: Incorporates recent and planned additions. DEIR and LUPA released later in
- Glen suggested that we need volunteers from ALL groups to weigh in on these LUPAs.
Amelia suggested as a start that RPA Board members could take this on. So far we have (1)
Helen for Miller/Knox: (2) Glen for Las Trampas: (3)Jerry for Coyote Hills: (4) Amelia and Reg
for Concord Hills, and (5) Marty for Black Diamond. It was suggested that we invite Seth Adams
from Save Mount Diablo to an upcoming meeting for more information on Concord Hills.
SCIENCE COMMITTEE: RPA has wanted to pursue this for quite a while. Bill Hudson laid out a
plan as to how this might work, with input from those present. A Citizens’ Science Committee
might be composed of graduate students needing field work under UC supervision. Ana Alvarez
meets with UC on a regular basis. Reg suggested an adaptive management study for new trails.
He also mentioned a data base that he knew of at UC that different agencies compiled. Joe
suggested volunteers set up study plots with the possible incorporation of camera monitoring.
We need to communicate with Ana about all of this. Joe will meet with Ana to see how receptive she might be to monitoring. Joe will find out if any Master’s thesis students might want to be involved.
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ANNUAL MEETING: APRIL 7 at Temescal Boat House. EBRPD and Claremont Canyon
Conservancy will help support. Joe Engbeck’s recent book will be presented as will information on the new redwoods acquisition near Cazadero.
OTHER:
JEWEL LAKE: Matt Graul has appropriated $200,000 for feasibility study concerning
removing of siltation.
FIRE PAPER. Joe passed out final copies of his and Jerry’s paper which will be published January 7. Jerry mentioned a State Assembly bill regarding vegetation removal currently in the Legislature. He stated EBRPD will undertake 19 fire related projects EBRPD has a new fire chief, Aileen Theile ,and he will invite her to come to a future meeting.
She has a science background and is a longtime District employee. Glen said 25 acres at Siesta Gate are being managed for a 70% reduction in fuel . 3 acres will be turned
into a demonstration area. UC got money recently (not FEMA funds) from Cal Fire for the
purpose of an EIR and subsequent vegetation removal. Glen is also coordinating a field study
at Skyline Gardens involving UC students. Marty voiced her concerned over grazing damage at Briones and McCosker.
NEXT MEETING FEBRUARY 5 at Watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD DECEMBER 2, 2018
- Meeting called to order at 11 a.m., 35 Lost Valley Drive, Orinda CA
PRESENT: Helen, Glen, Reg, Jerry, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll, Joe,Judi.
GUEST: Ana Alvarez, Deputy Assistant General Manager, EBRPD.
MINUTES approved. AGENDA approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT; $1,667.16
MC COSKER SIBLEY LUPA SUMMARY-Helen. HIGHLIGHTS: Controversial trails to be kept in
plan but their type of use will be determined in the future. A new Trail Users group will be
formed by EBRPD. Additionally vegetation management, biological studies and the wildlife
corridor issues will involve members of RPA
GUEST ANA ALVAREZ: Ana told us of a genome project that will recreate the ancestors of our
Oakland redwoods. A long term goal is to have these offspring planted in the Oakland hills,
mainly Sibley
UPCOMING LUPAS:
Up for review are LUPAS for Southern Las Trampas, Miller/Knox, Black Diamond, Coyote Hills, and Concord Hills.
FIRE PAPER: Joe and Jerry’s fire paper has been accepted for publication in January by the International Wildfire Association. Congratulations, gentlemen.
JEWEL LAKE : Matt Graul will do a study of the siltation problem to address Ellen Barth’s
concern.
ANNUAL MEETING: We are aiming for late April/early May. Location: Temescal Beach House.
Theme: All Things Redwood. History, a joint presentation with EBRPD. Subtopic could involve Native American lore and a guest story teller. Save the Redwoods League and Amelia Marshall ( author of a book on East Bay Hills including the lumbering of redwoods ) would be special guests. Glen mentioned an original old growth redwood in Leona Canyon!
NEXT MEETING JANUARY 7, 2019 at 9:30 EBMUD watershed headquarters.
MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD-APRIL 1,2019
Meeting called to order at 9:35 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Jerry, Joe, Reg, Glen,
Jo Ann, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll, Helen.
AGENDA approved. MINUTES approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $2,192.16.
GUEST: DAVE WINNAKER,CHIEF, MORAGA ORINDA FIRE DEPARTMENT presenting
information on the NORTH ORINDA FIRE BREAK.( NOFB).
The Chief explained that cap and trade funds will be used for this project, one of only two currently approved by Cal Fire (other one adjacent to Highway 17 in the Santa Cruz mtns. The general route of the NOFB will begin at Acalanes High School, ascend Lafayette Ridge, continue up and across Happy Valley Rd to Bear Creek Rd where it will descend, partially entering the Wagner Ranch Nature Area, cross San Pablo Dam Rd and proceed into Tilden along Nimitz Way . The first installment of the project will be on EBMUD land in the Bear Creek area as EBMUD has already approved it for their lands. EBRPD, Orinda and Acalanes School Districts, and private landholders have yet to approve. The purpose of NOFB is to create a shaded fuel break and clean up the understory by controlled burn. No large scale tree removal of canopy. Attention to be paid to native flora and fauna and biologists from EBMUD and EBRPD will weigh in and assure that no nesting birds will be disturbed. It is likely that the Calif. Dept. of Fish and Wildlife will be involved. The project falls under existing Habitat Conservation Plans/EIRS, and no new roads will be built, the Chief stated. There is no official project map yet and won’t be until all stakeholders have signed off. Reg is very concerned about the project’s impact on the Wagner Ranch Nature Area, which he helped create and has been involved with for many years. RPA shares his concern and is waiting to see what accommodations will be made in this project for Wagner Ranch Nature Area.
ANNUAL MEETING: Plans for April 7 were finalized and assignments given. Jerry has made
posterboards featuring Aurelia Rinehart and Joe Engbeck which will be put on display in
addition to the speakers Amelia has lined up.
MSP- AURELIA REINHARDT RESOLUTION: It was MSP that the Board of Directors of the
Regional Parks Association go on record as supporting the process of renaming Redwood
Regional as the AURELIA REINHARDT REDWOODS REGIONAL PARK in honor and
remembrance of her service in the early days of EBRPD as well as her legacy as an educator
and advocate of world peace.
OTHER: Jo Ann will be in touch with Amelia Marshall for her notes on EBRPD committee
meetings.
Later that day, a request came for RPA to encourage the Town of Moraga City Council to support the acquisition of the Painted Rock property in Moraga by John Muir Land Trust, and contribute to the purchase of that land acquisition. MSP to send letter to Town council urging the Town’s financial contribution. A second item for RPA to contribute $100 to JMLT toward purchase of the Painted Rocks property was also MSP. Both motions were done via email and according to RPA guidelines.
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MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETING MARCH 4 2019
Meeting called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Jerry, Joe, Reg, Glenn,
Marty.ABSENT: Carroll, Helen. guest: Jo Ann Gillespie.
AGENDA APPROVED. MINUTES APPROVED WITH CORRECTION.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $2, 072.16 includes $85.00 from dues from new and renewed
members.
GUEST JO ANN GILLESPIE: Jo Ann is the vice -president of the Metropolitan Horseman’s
Association and also belong to the Horseman’s Associations of Martinez, Moraga and Orinda.
Jo Ann grew up in Orinda and owns Rawking Horse Ranch in Briones. She presented the idea of bicyclists having access to bells (provided in a basket at major trail heads) for use while riding, making trails safer for all. She is out on the trails a lot on her horse and believes in separate trails . She will attend RPA Board meetings as her work schedule permits.
TRAILS: Brian Holt has set no date for meeting of the newly established trail committee.
BRIONES: Marty brought up the poor condition of the group camps Wa Ti Chi and Maude
Whalen in Briones. Water systems down, restrooms closed, shelters graffitied and trashed.
Jerry will look into this. (NOTE: Marty subsequently went on line and it appears EBRPD plans
to renovate these facilities in the near future with Measure AA funds and make Maud Whalen
ADA accessible.)
ANNUAL MEETING APRIL 7, 9:30 at TEMESCAL BEACH HOUSE-UPDATE: Save the Redwoods will have a Native American to talk on the Native American perspective on redwoods. Amelia Marshall will give an 8 minute presentation on the history of logging in the east bay hills. Dee Rosario will bring us up to date on EBRPD’s involvement to protect the redwoods. Save the Redwoods League will give the major presentation, celebrating their 100th birthday and give copies of Joe Enbeck’s book to all. A showing of Stan Dodson short film. “Old Survivor”.
Glen is asking that a sign-up sheet be provided for a hike he will lead in Leona Canyon in May to see “Old Survivor”.
So far we have 50 RSVP’s including 3 EBRPD staff and Board.
LUPA REPORTS: .BLACK DIAMOND-Marty stated that from her research 5,000 acres will be opened to the public, doubling the size of the park.
EBRPD COMMITTEE REPORTS FROM AMELIA MARSHALL were passed out. We are
grateful to her for assuming Judi’s role.
NEXT MEETING APRIL 1 9:30 a.m. at Watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD-FEBRUARY 4. 2019
Meeting called to order at 9:45 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Jerry, Joe, Helen, Glen,
Reg, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll.
AGENDA APPROVED with additions. MINUTES approved with correction.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $1,987.16.
TRAILS (and LUPAS ) REPORTS : Helen says that Trails Advisory Committee may start up in March. Glen reported on the Las Trampas LUPA. 700 acres have been added between Crow Canyon and Bollinger Canyon Roads. Bicyclists have been
weighing in on trail use at the public meetings. Jerry stated that although EBRPD has bought a house at the edge of Las Trampas, public access won’t happen for a long time due mostly to the condition of the road. Helen reported on the Miller Knox LUPA. Helen stated that the Sierra
Club ’s Public Lands group has members who are following up on the various LUPAS . She will
provide us their contact info. Amelia and Reg will do Concord Hills and to that end will invite
Seth Adams of Save Mt. Diablo to our next meeting. Marty reported on the LUPA for Black
Diamond which includes adding several new trailheads and staging areas including Arata Ranch and Clayton Ranch . Additional picnic sites and a walk- in camp are also included, plus
infrastructure repairs.
ANNUAL MEETING SUNDAY APRIL 7.
Save the Redwoods League is providing FREE copies of Joe Engbeck’s book Saving the
Redwoods. Invitations to all EBRPD Board members, EBRPD staff, and East Bay environmental organizations as she has done in the past.
GRAZING: Marty opened the discussion by stating that the guidelines stated in EBRPD’s
Wildland Management Policies in no way match practice and if continued in their current state
there will be no oak woodlands left in 100 years. Glen gave very interesting information on how
fossilized grass determined where early grassland existed and how it has increased over the
years due to factors including but not limited to grazing. He thinks a good solution to this
problem is to carefully manage selected areas long- term with the goal of restoration to oak
woodland. OTHER:.
.EBMUD IPM MEETING. Marty and Glen attended. Lots of policy documentation
emphasis. Meeting got hijacked by those against any and all pesticide use. EBMUD used a pie
chart to show what a small portion of their IPM program involved pesticides but did not state the
amount used. It is used primarily adjacent to water pipes to control roots getting in. HIKE TO
SEE OLD REDWOOD: Glen volunteered to lead a hike up Leona Canyon to see the oldest
redwood in the East Bay. JUDI MEMORIAL: MSP for RPA to give $100 to the Regional Parks
Foundation in Judi’s memory. There will probably be a trail to honor Judi.
MEETING ADJOURNED 11:15 NEXT MEETING MARCH 4 9:30 at Watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD-JANUARY 7, 2019
A few moments of silence and reflection on the life of Judi Bank, long-time RPA board member,
were held. Judi passed away suddenly in December. A letter of condolence to Judi’s husband Peter was signed by all present. A Celebration of Life for Judi will be held Jan 27, 2019 at Dunsmuir House beginning at 2 p.m. Judi will be well-remembered for her
advocacy for equestrians and the environment.
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MEETING called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Glen, Jerry, Joe,
Helen, Reg, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll. GUEST: Bill Hudson,.
MINUTES APPROVED
AGENDA approved
TREASURER’S REPORT; $1,887.16 on hand, not counting today’s addition of dues.
SIBLEY LUPA REPORT: The best thing to come out of this is the formation of a Trails
Committee. Ana Alvarez will be overseeing the creek restoration project.
UPCOMING LUPAS: Helen passed out info on upcoming LUPAS to be released for the following
parks: MILLER/KNOX: to be released end of January for approval BLACK DIAMOND: mid
2019.COYOTE HILLS: (Patterson Ranch addition only)DEIR and LUPA being
finalized. Expected release early 2019. CONCORD HILLS : DEIR and LUPA released early to
mid 2019, dependent on completion of property transfer from Navy to EBRPD. SOUTHERN
LAS TRAMPAS: Incorporates recent and planned additions. DEIR and LUPA released later in
- Glen suggested that we need volunteers from ALL groups to weigh in on these LUPAs.
Amelia suggested as a start that RPA Board members could take this on. So far we have (1)
Helen for Miller/Knox: (2) Glen for Las Trampas: (3)Jerry for Coyote Hills: (4) Amelia and Reg
for Concord Hills, and (5) Marty for Black Diamond. It was suggested that we invite Seth Adams
from Save Mount Diablo to an upcoming meeting for more information on Concord Hills.
SCIENCE COMMITTEE: RPA has wanted to pursue this for quite a while. Bill Hudson laid out a
plan as to how this might work, with input from those present. A Citizens’ Science Committee
might be composed of graduate students needing field work under UC supervision. Ana Alvarez
meets with UC on a regular basis. Reg suggested an adaptive management study for new trails.
He also mentioned a data base that he knew of at UC that different agencies compiled. Joe
suggested volunteers set up study plots with the possible incorporation of camera monitoring.
We need to communicate with Ana about all of this. Joe will meet with Ana to see how receptive she might be to monitoring. Joe will find out if any Master’s thesis students might want to be involved.
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ANNUAL MEETING: APRIL 7 at Temescal Boat House. EBRPD and Claremont Canyon
Conservancy will help support. Joe Engbeck’s recent book will be presented as will information on the new redwoods acquisition near Cazadero.
OTHER:
JEWEL LAKE: Matt Graul has appropriated $200,000 for feasibility study concerning
removing of siltation.
FIRE PAPER. Joe passed out final copies of his and Jerry’s paper which will be published January 7. Jerry mentioned a State Assembly bill regarding vegetation removal currently in the Legislature. He stated EBRPD will undertake 19 fire related projects EBRPD has a new fire chief, Aileen Theile ,and he will invite her to come to a future meeting.
She has a science background and is a longtime District employee. Glen said 25 acres at Siesta Gate are being managed for a 70% reduction in fuel . 3 acres will be turned
into a demonstration area. UC got money recently (not FEMA funds) from Cal Fire for the
purpose of an EIR and subsequent vegetation removal. Glen is also coordinating a field study
at Skyline Gardens involving UC students. Marty voiced her concerned over grazing damage at Briones and McCosker.
NEXT MEETING FEBRUARY 5 at Watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD DECEMBER 2, 2018
- Meeting called to order at 11 a.m., 35 Lost Valley Drive, Orinda CA
PRESENT: Helen, Glen, Reg, Jerry, Marty. ABSENT: Carroll, Joe,Judi.
GUEST: Ana Alvarez, Deputy Assistant General Manager, EBRPD.
MINUTES approved. AGENDA approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT; $1,667.16
MC COSKER SIBLEY LUPA SUMMARY-Helen. HIGHLIGHTS: Controversial trails to be kept in
plan but their type of use will be determined in the future. A new Trail Users group will be
formed by EBRPD. Additionally vegetation management, biological studies and the wildlife
corridor issues will involve members of RPA
GUEST ANA ALVAREZ: Ana told us of a genome project that will recreate the ancestors of our
Oakland redwoods. A long term goal is to have these offspring planted in the Oakland hills,
mainly Sibley
UPCOMING LUPAS:
Up for review are LUPAS for Southern Las Trampas, Miller/Knox, Black Diamond, Coyote Hills, and Concord Hills.
FIRE PAPER: Joe and Jerry’s fire paper has been accepted for publication in January by the International Wildfire Association. Congratulations, gentlemen.
JEWEL LAKE : Matt Graul will do a study of the siltation problem to address Ellen Barth’s
concern.
ANNUAL MEETING: We are aiming for late April/early May. Location: Temescal Beach House.
Theme: All Things Redwood. History, a joint presentation with EBRPD. Subtopic could involve Native American lore and a guest story teller. Save the Redwoods League and Amelia Marshall ( author of a book on East Bay Hills including the lumbering of redwoods ) would be special guests. Glen mentioned an original old growth redwood in Leona Canyon!
NEXT MEETING JANUARY 7, 2019 at 9:30 EBMUD watershed headquarters.
MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOC. BOARD MEETING- OCTOBER 15, 2018
Meeting called to order at 9:35 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Jerry, Joe, Reg, Helen, Marty . ABSENT: Judi, Carroll, Glen. GUEST: Ellen Barth.
MINUTES approved. AGENDA approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $1667.16.
JEWEL LAKE- ELLEN . Ellen has, over the past few years, seen a monumental decline in the health of Jewel Lake In Tilden Regional Park. She has been walking there since 1958. She is a birder and an original trail Volunteer. She gave a brief history: established in 1921, dredged in ’67 and ’91. Currently 50% of the original surface is gone and turning into marsh. Species dyingout. No more ducks . Dredging needed immediately but it’s a complex issue due to the bypass being built for the restoration of Wildcat Creek.Permits to dredge for three ponds are being created for the Wildcat project while Jewel Lake is being allowed to die. Ellen has enlisted the support of Audubon and Sierra Club and is asking for our support. Shehas been told by Matt Graul that it will cost $500-600,000 to dredge and work cannot begin until after the bypass is completed. Joe asked about the impact of dredging on resident frogs and turtles. Ellen stated that they will be removed prior to dredging. Marty mentioned Mountain Lake in the Richmond District of San Francisco which was dredged and restored over a period of several years and is now complete and is a model for urban Lake restoration. Helen suggested we write a letter to Matt Graul supporting dredging.
SIBLEY LUPA/EIR: Will be an agenda item for the EBRPD Board Nov. 20. Up fordiscussion : definition of “narrow trails” no bikes on narrow trails, no dogs /dogs on leash,vegetation management, and wildlife study as related to the Caldecott Corridor. STEP requeststhat all member groups meet before Nov . 20 to reaffirm our support for these issues.
EBMUD TRAILS COMMITTEE: HELEN. She stated that the two trails on EBMUD land recently
opened to bicycles are getting light usage and there are no problems. The Trails Advisory Committee will therefore only meet twice a year.
MEASURE FF- has our support. Passage will help with vegetation removal in Berkeley, as well as many other projects in Alameda and western Contra Costa counties.
SAVING THE REDWOODS by JOE ENGBECK: Joe’s book was recently released. We signed a card congratulating him.
Meeting adjourned 10:45.
NEXT MEETING NOVEMBER 5 at 9:30 EBMUD Watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES – REGIONAL PARKS ASSOC. BOARD SEPT 4 2018
Meeting called to order at 9:35 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Joe, Jerry, Glen,Helen, Marty, Carroll. ABSENT : Judi, Reg.
MINUTES APPROVED AGENDA APPROVED.
TREASURER’S REPORT: Amelia reported $1667.16 after our $500 to FF campaign.
SIBLEY LUPA : DISCUSSION; Helen: LUPA/EIR obfuscating the issues. “There is a direct conflict with Ordinance 38 and a lack of definition of a “narrow trail”. We are hoping that no decision on the Sibley document will be made until after the November election, and that a conversation with the Board be instituted, involving other groups but that RPA take a leadership role. Trails is the focus right now. Jerry and Helen will draft a short talking point document which will be sent to the board in our name . Other groups will be invited to sign on. Amelia reiterated the opposition to the Sibley LUPA, specifically its lack of clarity on trails , but not overlooking wildfire and vegetation management and wildlife and native plant issues.
MOUNTAIN BIKES ON NARROW TRAILS: Jerry passed around the scary video of mountain biking at Crockett Hills regional park and defined “pump flow trail’ for us. It is a trail that is always narrow (18 inches) with a steep upgrade (pump) and then a rapid descent (flow). Jerry went to a meeting of volunteers who patrol the parks on foot, bicycle and horseback and interact with the public in a positive way. They are the eyes and ears of EBRPD’s Public safety division.
MEASURE FF: Jerry passed out two documents- one informational and the other a support form for donations, signing up to volunteer, etc.
AGENDA DISCUSSION FOR FUTURE DATE: Glen would like us to propose the idea ofvolunteer advisory groups of citizens for each park or region of parks, feeling that the public often has an eye for things EBRPD can overlook such as maintenance issues. Jerry commented PAC (formed in 1973) has evolved to 17 Board appointed members which does serve this function more generally. Glen bases his proposal on the co-operative work he has done with EBMUD at Skyline Gardens.
NEXT MEETING OCTOBER 15 —-NOTE DATE CHANGE!!
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RPA minutes July 12– WAGNER RANCH NATURE AREA
TREASURER’S REPORT: Reg $2,167.16.
AGENCY FIRE MITIGATION AND VEGETATION PLANS: Jerry reported that CalFire is working on a Programmatic EIR for whole State, including federal, state and local components. Trouble is that enviros don’t like fuel breaks. He handed out a map showing wildland urban interface in red with eco-restoration areas in yellow. Grey lines indicate proposed fuel breaks. City of Oakland Plan is more of a report, not a great plan. The Hills Emergency Forum is not functioning as it should be, it should be helping agencies with fire safety. It needs to be re-energized
Helen and Glen reported on good news on EBMUD’s vegetation management plan. Since RPA’s last meeting Norman, Jerry, Glen, Stu Flashman, Jon Kaufman and Helen met with EBMUD staff to go over a draft fuel break plan for Grizzly Peak area. EBMUD staff accepted all proposed amendments which will result in EBMUD’s spending $100,000 per year over an 8 year period to remove and thin some 70% high risk eucalyptus trees. Helen reported that the recently adopted EBMUD’s Watershed Management Plan (WMP) was successful from environmentalists’ point of view: a good compromise was reached on only allowing mountain bikers on two fire roads – Eagle’s Nest and Pinole Valley trails. Yesterday on July 11th a major recommendation of the WMP, EBMUD’s new Trails Advisory Committee, met at Orinda watershed headquarters for the first time. The mission of the committee is to monitor allowing bikes on the two trails, but no more. The first day bikes will be allowed is next Monday, July 16th. Effects of allowing the mountain bikes on EBMUD watershed will be monitored.
Helen reported that members of the Park District’s Environmental Round Table (ERT) will join Bob Nisbet on a tour of a multi-use trail July 22nd to see firsthand the challenges of multi use trails, i.e. narrowing of trail over time to a single track trail and erosion as well as the formation of rogue trails.
Judi reported on a meeting of the EBRPD Nature and Cultural Committee regarding a Cultural and Resource Site Atlas they’re developing. Dee reported that the Park District is close to an MOU with the City of Alameda to develop Alameda Point. At the Gateway project at the Oakland Army Base MTC will build a pier in the Bay; both pier and a building should be completed by the end of the year.
Amelia moved and Jerry seconded that RPA support Measure CC on the November ballot and donate $500 to the campaign for its passage. The motion carried unanimously.
No August meeting Next meeting will be Tuesday, September 4th at 9:30 AMat Watershed HQ since the first Monday is Labor Day (September 3rd).
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Minutes- Regional Parks Association Board JUNE 4,2018
TREASURER’S REPORT: Reg.$2,147.16 on hand.
RPA BYLAWS OF APRIL 2005 REVIEWED AND APPROVED.
DATE FOR WAGNER RANCH NATURE AREA VISIT : July 12 at 11 a.m.
TRAILS PAPER TO PAC- Jerry. He will also go to Trails Volunteers to talk and to PAC in the fall. His position paper refers to Ord. 38,maps, signs, and how they can be improved to inform the public.
EBMUD MASTER PLAN -Helen. Has been officially adopted. But there is concern about the
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT section of EBMUDMP . Glen commented that the challenge here is in the day-to day implementation of the standards. He also stated that the EBMUD MP says that no chemicals are used in eucalyptus removal. Tree is cut and monitored so that sprouts can be removed, eventually killing the tree. Helen and others will meet with EBMUD for a tour highlighting the issue. BICYCLING on EBMUD lands will be the focus of a meeting (open to all) on July 11, 9:30 a.m. at EBMUD Watershed bldg
AGENCY FIRE MITIGATION and VEGETATION PLANS:
Jerry stated that EBMUD needs to prioritize the clearing of eucalyptus on the Grizzly Peak corridor. Calfire, EBMUD Sierra Club and CCC representatives will meet this Thursday, June 7 to get Calfire’s opinion on veg management. Problem is there are 4 different plans for vegetation management. Helen wants to see all parties working co-operatively with EBMUD . Glen asked Joe “ Is there scientific data regarding thinning vs. non-thinning in the event of a fire?” Joe answered that wind and humidity will influence more than anything. Thinned or not, a fire will explode when it is hot and windy.” Jerry mentioned a movie, “Wilder than Wild”, featuring Yosemite’s thin and burn forest management. Trailer on Google. Hour movie will be on TV or groups can arrange for showing. Jerry will find out when.. OAKLAND PLAN: Jerry said that Oakland’s plan did not address endangered species and CNPS will comment on that. Joe said that there were errors (botanical) and he believes (1) Eucalyptus should be totally removed (2) “25 years or younger” referring to second growth trees is not accurate (3) the City is not realistic on inspections. Joe will write our response to the Oakland Plan.
EBRPD COMMITTEE RPORTS- BOC Judi. Community Services recognized as a huge and successful volunteer program. Mission Peak Park’s hours have been modified for a later closing.
NEXT MEETING JULY 12 in conjunction with Wagner Ranch Nature Area visit
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MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MAY 7. 2018
TREASURER’S REPORT: $2,402. 42 +additions from Annual Meeting. Amelia incurred costs of $169.26 for A. M. MSP to reimburse.16 regular members and 1 life member paid.
ANNUAL MEETING RECAP: 43 attended and we gained 1 new member. Among those
attending were John Kitchen, retired park supervisor from Pt. Pinole, John Sutter, five EBRPD Board members and staff Bob Doyle, Ana Alvarez, and Matt Graul.
Nancy Skinner was gracious and informative. Question and answer session was lively and informative.
PROTOCOLS: MSP to approve and use today’s date.
FIRE PAPER UPDATE; JOE; Nancy Skinner didn’t respond to his paper. We urged Joe to resend it, and also send a copy to State Senator Steve Glazer and the MOFD. Jerry recommended sending to the State Budget Committee , EBRPD Board , and the Hills Emergency Forum. Jerry commented of the state Board of Forestry which oversees Calfire. They oversee science, do inspections, and get grants.
TRAILS: Jerry will take draft of his document to PAC.
PAC: JUDI. Judi did attend the Natural and Cultural Resources Committee which received the IPM report. The district is improving by trying to use more organic pesticides plus mowers and goats in high use and picnic areas. CRAB COVE currently has federal buildings on a piece of land designated as open space. District did not take buildings. Current controversy involves City of Alameda and a developer as well.
MSP TO RE-ELECT ALL REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION OFFICERS.
NEXT MEETING JUNE 4 EBMUD WATERSHED HEADQUARTERS.
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETING APRIL 2, 2018
TREASURER’S REPORT-REG $2,072.42 on hand.
FIRE PAPER-JOE: Amelia will co-sign and send after Joe updates it to include the Tubbs Fire.
LETTER TO the GOVERNOR: finished and will be sent together with the Fire Paper.
BOC-JUDI. Contract re-negotiated with Castle Rock Arabians to use arena at Diablo Foothills. Community engagement-how the District is reaching out to various communities-was discussed. Some ways include mobile nature units and offering transportation for schools to visit parks. Partnerships with day camps and the Youth Fair were mentioned. The basic concept of Community Engagement is to make sure communities without regional parks close by are given an opportunity to go .Jerry stated that a goal adopted in 1973 was to have a park within a 15 minute drive for all residents and that it is still a goal to get diverse ethnic groups into the parks. Judi mentioned that she saw Dee at the Skyline Ranch Open house recently. Activities there included pony rides and the mounted patrol . It was a very popular event.
UPCOMING EVENTS; Joe mentioned that the Society of American Foresters is sponsoring a tour at the Russell UC Research Station located on Happy Valley Rd (near Bear Creek Rd) in Lafayette on APRIL 21. Reg mentioned the 17th Annual Wildlife Festival to be held APRIL 22 at Wagner Ranch Nature Center in Orinda.
TRAILS PAPER -DISCUSSION. Jerry feels changes should be made to Ordinance 38 to cover trail issues. He wants to see more signage to delineate types and use of trails and feels that each parks trail maps should be clearly marked showing each trail’s designated usage. He questioned the definition of “Narrow trails for all” as being too vague . A definition of width is needed. Jerry stated that his paper is intended as a “conversation” thus the extensive background information. Judi passed out two new brochures from EBRPD regarding bicycle loop trails. Helen commented that she had recently gone out and inspected some eroded single track trails. Judi added that trails in Redwood used to be properly graded but are now maintained so that water damage occurs.
OTHER: We will ask Glen Schneider to join the RPA board. Marty commented on the deteriorating maintenance of Briones including lack of garbage collection, trees blocking Bear Creek Trail, cow manure and graffiti in Maud Whalen and no running water at Wi Ti Chee group areas. The restroom at the Archery range is not being serviced and conditions are gross. Marty has contacted Joe Miller , Park supervisor, but has received no response.
ANNUAL MEETING APRIL 29 9;30 AT TEMESCAL BOAT HOUSE.
NEXT RPA BOARD MEETING MAY 7 9;30 at watershed Headquarters.
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD- MARCH 5, 2018
TREASURER’S REPORT- REG. $1,882.42 on hand. Upcoming expenses include mailbox rental of $150 a year.
ANNUAL MEETING APRIL 29 9;30 AT LAKE TEMESCAL BOATHOUSE. Theme: Parks , Fire,and Water with guest speaker State Senator Nancy Skinner. Robert Doyle and Dee Rosario also included and will attend. Amelia is in the process of assembling a Newsletter. Jerry highlighted the major points of Proposition 68, the California 4.1 billion $ bond issue that will be decided on the June ballot . 20% will go to underserved areas. Existing parks would be repaired and upgraded. Flood protection, levee upgrades, groundwater cleanup, and water recycling funds are included.
FINAL FIRE LETTER-JOE. Joe is preparing to add the Tubbs fire, highlighting pre and post -fire planning as a factor in the fire. He has submitted prior text to Nancy Skinner but so far has received no response, Neither has the state Fire Commissioner responded.
GUEST GLEN SCHNEIDER. Glen is the project manager for Skyline Gardens- the section of the Skyline Trail between Lomas Cantadas and Highway 24. An incredible 253 species of native plants exist on that acreage. Glen has organized the many volunteers who work taking out the non-natives. This area is “high ridge volcanic” and is full of seeps and springs. Glen and his crews use vinegar instead of Roundup for weed control. EBMUD (whose land this is) has thinned and cleared large swaths of eucalyptus . . He added that EBMUD plans to make interpretive panels and passed out fliers about Skyline Gardens. Amelia is hoping some form of display about Skyline Gardens can be put together for the Annual Meeting. Glen has been given the Channel 5 Jefferson Award this week.
GUEST BILL STEWART: Bill is with the Dep’t. of Environmental Science, Policy and Management, at UC Berkeley. His research on fire and fire probability was formerly focused on forest lands but recently has shifted to private lands, mainly because of the coastal 2017 fires. He emphasized that S. California has much stricter standards for private property compliance with fire regulations than does N. California. Bill passed out his white paper titled “The impact of land ownership, firefighting, and reserve status on fir probability in California”. which contains a lot of the information he presented. Joe mentioned the proposed letter from RPA to Governor Brown requesting the establishment of a statewide fire commission similar to the Coastal Commission. Bill thinks there needs to be better education of the public first. Bill responded to a question from Glen about the flammability of oak vs. eucalyptus. He stated there was no research. Joe mentioned that there are fire models that can predict this and added that flame length is an issue. Bill feels it is crucial to involve the media in all fire education and that scientific information must be made accessible and readable to the public.
BOC-JUDI. Lease extensions have been approved for the cell towers at Lake Chabot andVollmer Peak. The lease for the Native Plant Nursery has been re-approved. Judi explained about the Youth Job Fairs held annually at three locations. Over 400 youth are hired yearly. Great outreach program. DOGS will be discussed at next PAC meeting. Trails will also bediscussed. Helen showed us a new EBRPD flier about Bicycle Loop Trails. We agreed with her that there is too much bicycle promotion currently in EBRPD.
OTHER: Helen will be attending an environmental roundtable where Prop. 68 and Measure CC will be discussed. The Sierra Club at its March 14 meeting will take a position on CC.
Meeting adjourned at 11:25 NEXT MEETING MONDAY APRIL 2
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MINUTES-REGIONAL PARKS ASSOC. BOARD- FEB 5, 2018
Meeting called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Reg, Marty, Jerry, Judi. ABSENT: Carroll, Joe. GUEST Helen Burke.
TREASURER’S REPORT; No statement from bank- same on hand as last month. Reg will cut Amelia a check for $188 as reimbursement for the website fee.
GUEST HELEN BURKE. Was on EBMUD Board from 1974-1990. She has also served on the
Berkeley Planning Commission and the Berkeley Creek Commission. She has been working on the new EBMUD Master Plan update and was instrumental in forming STEP to achieve a protection for EBMUD trails on watershed lands.. MSP to extend invitation to Helen to join the RPA Board. Helen accepted. Welcome, Helen.
STEP: Comment period on environmental review for EBMUD Watershed Plan ends Feb 27, and RPA is in agreement with the proposed language to become part of the Master Plan.
Jerry passed out a flash drive which we will discuss at our next meeting. Among other items it includes a letter to Governor Brown asking him to get the State involved in taking over the East Bay Hills FIRE Management situation which FEMA has abdicated.
TRAILS: Helen will be hiking with Bob Nesbitt to assess certain trails on EBRP parkland and will give us a report at next Board meeting.
OAKLAND SEWAGE SPILL and Pesticide use in Briones. Marty will pursue.
ORINDA CREEKS: Reg is excited about the possibility of opening up San Pablo Creek in downtown Orinda. The City is looking at possibilities in conjunction with its Streetscape planning. Funds for hydrological studies need to be secured before a lengthy process of restoration can be pursued with landowners.
COMMITTEE MEETINGS- Judi. She will send out a schedule of Board and Committee meetings.
ANNUAL MEETING UPDATE: Amelia has secured Nancy Skinner as our guest speaker. DATE SUNDAY APRIL 29. Mark your calendars.
MEETING ADJOURNED 11:20
NEXT MEETING MARCH 5 2018 9:30 Watershed Headquarters.
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REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETING JANUARY 8, 2018
Meeting called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Joe, Reg, Marty, Judi.
ABSENT: Carroll, Jerry.
MINUTES approved.
TREASURERS REPORT: $1,721.08 on hand. Expenditure this month: $123.64 for website.
REMINDER: PAY DUES ($20.00) to Reg Barrett, 31 Dos Posos, Orinda CA 94563.
STEP REPORT on TRAILS-EBMUD to adopt negative declaration on Master Plan Update, including only two trail/fire roads to be opened to bicycles. Comments due January 29, 2018.. Joe added his concerns about environmental damage to trails everywhere from bicycles. RPA will discuss in February as part of Jerry’s position paper “ A Conversation About EBRPD trails”.
WEBSITE DISCUSSION: Needs tending to with outdated material removed.. Joe would like to see links to reading and supplementary information incorporated into website.
TRAIL CAMERAS- Discussion of their use. Joe would like to see trail cameras on trails to document illegal and damaging use by mountain bikes. Reg uses cameras in his work and has developed a slide show of some of his more intriguing shots. Suggestion he show it at our next meeting with a thought toward showing it at our Annual Meeting. Reg will talk to Doug Bell to see if EBRPD has cameras.
GUEST ANA ALVAREZ DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER EBRPD. Ana outlined her
job responsibilities including overseeing finance operations, planning, land acquisition, and stewardship. She highlighted her background of over 20 years in parks and recreation including her last job as deputy director for parks and open space in San Francisco. She holds a Ph.D. from USC and her dissertation was on climate change. She brings this expertise as an additional focus to her job at EBRPD. She mentioned that last year EBRPD sustained $10,000,000 in storm damage and that the fire season has been extended 100 days because of climate change. Ana talked of plans for carbon sequestering in the District. She mentioned the upcoming State Parks bond measure in June and Measure CC in November. Asked about new areas open to the public. Ana responded that Castle Ridge staging Area will open this month and that new sections of the Bay Trail through, Pt. Pinole will open in the spring. The federal and state permitting processes are what is slowing down public access to many areas, she stated. She addressed the increase of blue-green algae in many of our local lakes by saying that ongoing testing in conjunction with EBMUD is occurring and feels climate change is one cause . Amelia brought up the Bruzzone property in Indian Valley that she would like to see acquired with WW funds. Joe mentioned his paper on trees that should not be planted because of climate change. Ana expressed interest in both.
COMMITTEE REPORTS- Judi, She has been made aware of a group called PIDO- Point Isabel Dog Owners Organization which is approaching PAC about regulations about dogs in the Parks.
JOE will contact Bill Stuart in regard to a future meeting about Fire Suppression in the E. B. hills.
Meeting adjourned 11:05 NEXT MEETING FEB 5, 2018
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MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD DEC 12,2017 at the home of Pete and
Amelia Wilson
Meeting called to order at 10:15 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Joe, Jerry, Carroll.
Reg, Judi ,Marty. GUEST Robin (Carroll’s daughter)
AGENDA APPROVED (with additions). MINUTES approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT : $123.64 due in January. MSP to authorize payment. We are requested to look at website and note any articles that are not current or relevant.
GUEST : Anna Alvarez unable to attend.
PROSPECTIVE RPA BOARD MEMBER- Helen Burke unable to attend because of EBMUD meeting on trails.
STEP-EBMUD BIKE TRAILS UPDATE ; The only trails that will be open to bicycles on EBMUD
land are the Pinole Valley and Eagle Peak. This will be in effect for the next 20 years as part of
EBMUD master Plan but can be revisited at any time. An implementation group will be formed.
There is a 45 day comment period.
BERKELEY DISASTER and FIRE SAFETY COMMISSION- Jerry. There are no common
standards among agencies which is a huge problem. Amelia suggested we sponsor a meeting
among agencies to discuss subjects as canopies, thinning, etc. Carroll added that we must look
at fuel loads but that dead trees should be managed so some are left for wildlife. Suggestions for
speakers: Joe suggested Bill Stuart .Reg suggested John Mount. THEME- Vegetation in the
East Bay Hills? Possibly February.
FIRE PAPER- Joe. He is looking for a new publisher.
CLAREMONT CONSERVANCY MEETING Nov. 12. History of recent fires bui little on new ideas for prevention.
SIBLEY- MC COSKER: Camping sites have been cut to 50. Bicycles still under discussion.
BOC- Judi. A concession study is currently going on. An update on powered mobility devices is underway.
SLIDESHOW- Jerry showed the historical slideshow he presented to the Berkeley Disaster and
Fire meeting featuring the ’23 fire in Berkeley in which 584 houses were destroyed. The fire
burnt across the ridge and down. Conclusion: history will repeat itself.
Meeting adjourned 11:30
NEXT MEETING JANUARY 8, 2018 in Watershed Headquarters.
MINUTES-RPA BOARD NOV. 6, 2017
Minutes from October approved with minor correction regarding type of thistle referred to. Agenda approved. Treasurer’s report-no change.
DECEMBER MEETING . Scheduled for Dec 12 at Amelia and Pete Wilson’s home. EBRPD’s deputy general manager Ana Alvarez will attend.
DISCUSSION- CHANGE IS GRAZING LEASES AT PT. REYES. Deadline for comments Nov 16. Several options are proposed-some would have significant impact on the environment and Tule elk in particular. Reg gave background history leading up to the proposed changes.
REPORT ON FIRE PAPER -Joe. He has submitted it to Landscape and Urban Planning for publication. He was unfortunately misquoted in the Berkeleyan in regard to removal of pine and eucalyptus. He has been in touch with Nancy Skinner’s office about creating a statewide fire suppression commission. Reg commented on the flammability of Scotch broom and how few people are aware of this. Joe explained mulching and reseeding with grass as a way to control broom.
EBRPD COMMITTEE reports- Judi. She gave an online summary of BOC which included fees, equestrian contracts, and proposed after hours bicycle commute permit. Reports of various committees are now online.
BRIONES TREES AND GRAZING- Lawsuit has been filed by Save Lafayette Trees to negate the agreement between PG&E and EBRPD to remove trees that allegedly threaten underground pipelines, mostly now in Briones.
MINUTES- RPA BOARD OCTOBER 2, 2017
COMMITTEE REPORTS- Judi. BOC: The new Convenient Camping program is providing 4 small cabins at Del Valle aimed at seniors and disabled. They will start renting soon. Four cabins will also be placed at Chabot. There will be limits on stays. Star gazing at a road outside Del Valle has proved popular. The district has expanded the long -term rental agreements for houses it owns from 6-9 years. Most are rented to employees who provide various services to the respective parks such as maintenance and security.
Natural and Cultural Resources Committee. At the Aug. Meeting Bev Ortiz gave a presentation on EBRP’s history. Another highlight was a discussion of the attempt in Wildcat to establish the Santa Cruz tar plant in place of the yellow star thistle. There will be a walk October 22 from 9-11 a.m. at the new McCuskey Property led by GGAS. Birding near the entrance and a two mile loop hike.
FIRE REPORT-Joe is ready to publish. Claremont Canyon. Conservancy and UC could possibly contribute to cost of publishing. Bay Nature will definitely do a 5,000 word article excerpted from Joe’s paper.
CLAREMONT CANYON CONSERVANCY ANNUAL MEETING will be Nov. 12, 4 p.m., at the Claremont Hotel. Speakers will be Bob Doyle and Chief of Calfire Ken Pimlott.
GRIZZLY PEAK FIRE: Jerry passed out three papers: (1) factual assessment of the fire (2) an aerial view with FEMA and EBRP fire reduction sections highlighted and (3) an aerial with diagrams showing the direction and locations of the “91 Hills fire and the Aug 2017 Grizzly Peak fire with the comment that had there been diablo winds the Grizzly Fire would have taken off in similar fashion as the ’91 fire.
OTHER: Marty is in communication with Dee about grazing and trail damage in Briones. She is also concerned about the contract EBRPD’s Board entered into with PG&E which involves removing 273 trees in Briones in the name of “pipeline safety”. She will share more on this at our next meeting.
MINUTES-RPA BOARD SEPT. 11, 2017
TREASURER’S REPORT: No change. Concern about past members who are not currently paying dues and what to do about this. Amelia has still sent these 60-some non–payers the Newsletter. Joe suggests sending out a mailer to update info. The subject shifted to a discussion of RPA”s purpose as an environmental advisory group. Jerry suggests our focus should include being a coalition builder, which we are already given the diverse groups that attend our Annual Meeting. Jerry summarized by saying that the EBRPD Board still listens to us (mostly) and has taken to heart our idea of establishing an EBRPD Scientific Advisory Committee and establishing a connection with UC Berkeley.
NATURAL and CULTURAL Resources committee. Judi sent brief summary. BOC: Dee Rosario is Board liaison to both these committees. We need to go and present our positions on fire, grazing, bicycles, etc. It was suggested we invite the Deputy General Manager, Ana Alvarez, to an upcoming meeting
GRIZZLY PEAK FIRE: Jerry summarized and passed around pictures. If the wind had been going the other direction this fire could have been disastrous. As it was, it served as a warning to all agencies involved.
UPDATE MEASURE CC: A new parcel tax affecting the corridor from San Leandro to Richmond is being proposed and will include $12 million for fire suppression. Advisory committee includes Sierra Club and CNPS.
EBRPD RETIREES INTEREST IN RPA: They are willing to partner with RPA on certain issues.
FIRE POSITION PAPER- Joe. Themes are policy and failure of policy. Planning has been done but hasn’t come to fruition. RPA BOARD’S ASSIGNMENT IS TO READ. There is a case to be made that a regional effort needs to be made.
OTHER: GRAZING. Marty recently observed gates open, locks removed and subsequentgrazing by two bulls with green tags in the enclosed area of the Buckeye near the springs. Creatures removed after contact with D DeFreese and J. Miller.Also Marty has been contacted by Dee Rosario in regards to grazing and its impact on trails.
SB BILL 249 regarding Tesla; there have been changes made to this Bill and Celeste Garamendi feels we should no longer support it.
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MINUTES-RPA BOARD JULY 17, 2017
No June minutes. TREASURER’S REPORT: $1,621.08
NOP for adding McCosker and Western Hills to Sibley- DISCUSSION: Highlights. (1)Wildlife corridors must be preserved. (2) Lack of integrated plans including habitat conservation plan. (3)Camping and grazing issues need to be adequately addressed. Full text of Joe Mc Bride’s analysis was discussed and commented on. Conclusion: all 4 areas: Tilden, Redwood, Huckleberry and Sibley need to be planned together along with McCosker. The STEP and SIERRA CLUB comments on the new area’s EIR was passed out.
STEP UPDATE (mountain bikes on EBMUD land). EBMUD still hasn’t defined policy other than developing a pilot project for two trails In EBRP there needs to be a decision of adapting old trails or building new ones (both with EIRs) will be contacted by Joe. COMMITTEE REPORTS:-none. There will likely be a bond measure in 2018.
OTHER: Jerry Kent was approved unanimously to serve as co-vice president with Joe Engbeck.
MINUTES- REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETING MAY 1, 2017
TREASURER’S REPORT: $1,928.48 + 3 new membership checks totaling $60.00 ANNUAL MEETING MAY 7: Logistics discussed and delegated. Theme “New Kids on the Block”. Amelia will ask questions of each new EBRP Director (Colin Coffey, Ellen Corbett, and Dee Rosario) which will provide an opportunity for each to provide personal background as well as their views and plans for EBRPD’s future.
STEP: Sierra Club has stated their policy regarding bikes: “No bikes on single track trails”. POSITION PAPERS: Thanks to Jerry who has gone to great lengths to prepare documents for distribution at our Annual Meeting on the topics Trail Use, Transparency, and Forming a Natural Science Advisory Panel for EBRP. This Panel would ease the burden in other areas. EBRP COMMITTEES- Judi. The Natural Resources Committee is developing sites for the Snowy Plover. Dee Rosario advises this committee and the BOC. LAFAYETTE TREE REMOVAL BY PG7E: Marty solicited info from those present about how citizens in Lafayette should deal with PG&E’s plan to remove 270 trees, many of them mature oaks.
REGIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETING- APRIL 3, 2017
PRESENT: NO QUORUM
Discussion among those present centered around questions to be presented to the three new EBRP Board members who will be present at our Annual Meeting May 7, “New Kids on the Block” with the three new EBRPD board members, Coffey, Corbett and Rosario.. Consensus on the following questions/topics:
!. TRAIL USE- conflicts and resolutions Current policy and evolving policy regarding bicycle use. Public education. (addenda- Norm La Force’s letter to EBRP from Sierra Club regarding bicycle use on trails.)
2.VEGETATION MANAGEMENT.
- Discussion of SB 249 which addresses OHV issues including establishment of resource protection, restoration of damage done by OHV use, and reallocation of fuel tax transfer funds.
- EBRPD set up of new NATURAL RESOURCES ADVISORY COMMITTEE to include scientists who will provide SCIENTIFIC, FACTUAL ADVISING.
MINUTES-RPA BOARD MARCH 6, 2017
Agenda approved. 2-6-17 Minutes amended under Other; “The hope is EBMUD will lead a coalition to eventually acquire Indian Valley to protect its Upper San Leandro watershed. Some funds could be used from WW and the Gateway Settlement $1million fund.”
TREASURER’S REPORT: Checking account balance of $1855.72 moved to Mechanics Bank. MSP to pay Amelia $57.24 for expenses for last month’s Newsletter.
NEW MEMBER JOE MC BRIDE was welcomed to the RPA Board unanimously.
GUEST COLIN COFFEY, new EBRP Board member from Ward 6. He was on PAC beginning in
2001 and also involved in the Park Ambassador program. He goes to public events such as the
Solano Stroll and mans the EBRP information table. He also helped the District develop
specialized brochures on camping, dogs, fishing, etc. He feels it important to involve outside
groups in working with the District. Current issues he
sees are allocations being balanced between land acquisition and maintenance and also
balancing land purchase vs. urban needs. Another issue of concern is parkland being loved to death, both in terms of impacts on the land itself and on surrounding neighborhoods. Long term sustainability vs. population growth will need to be addressed and also the needs/desires of conflicting interest groups. Jerry mentioned the “flow” trails at Crockett Hills and our board members hope that signage will restrict it to bikers, or at least warn hikers of this type of trail. Discussion of “trails for all”. Jerry : “the District needs to be explicit”. Jerry brought us up to speed on the current discussion of bicycle use on the Bay Area Ridge trail through Sibley and Huckleberry. Jerry also mentioned STEP (Single Track Environmental Protection).” A good quote from Colin: “Disappoint people in doses they can tolerate” may be useful in meeting the needs of all the various park constituents.
STEP update: Considering becoming a regional organization to deal with mountain bike impacts.
TESLA: Lawsuits consolidated. Opposing legislation introduced in state legislature – resource
protection vs. more OHV funding.
ESA; MSP for RPA to sign on to letter addressed to the Western Governors’ Convention regarding the importance of maintaining the Endangered Species Act.
ANNUAL MEETING; Proposed for Board and membership of RPA for a Sunday in May.
Meeting adjourned 11:05
NEXT MEETING APRIL 3, 2017
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MINUTES-RPA BOARD MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2017
Meeting called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Reg, Jerry, Marty, Judi, Carroll. ABSENT: Joe, Tim, Dee (liaison from EBRP Board).Guest Joe Mc Bride.
Minutes approved w.correction. Agenda approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT: $1,855.72. Reg offered to be our new treasurer, and the board voted to accept him. Dee was recognized as doing a great job as previous treasurer. Account will be transferred to Mechanics Bank.
GUEST JOE MC BRIDE. Joe is Professor Emeritus at UC Berkeley in Forest and Landscape Ecology. His expertise has been used many times by EBRP.
TESLA: Friends of Tesla Park is in the early litigation process.
They along with Center for Biological Diversity and Alameda Creek Alliance filed a petition in November 2016 against State Parks and the OHMVR Division challenging the Carnegie SVRA EIR/General Plan project approvals, compliance with the Public Resources Code, and authority of the OHMVR Commission to approve the project. SPRAWLDEF, the County of Alameda, and Connolly Ranch also filed petitions, all in Sacramento Superior Court.
The four petitions have been consolidated and will be heard by one court at the same time but probably there will not be a decision until fall or winter 2017.
FEMA: Jerry. FEMA will only communicate in open meetings. $5.6 million was going to be split among UC, City of Oakland and EBRP. EBRP has done an EIR, seems most competent, and therefore FEMA gave them all the money. FEMA has settled with HCN. Jerry gave his analysis of EBRP’s 2010 Fire hazard and Management Plan He also referred to EBMUD’s plan to rid its land of eucalyptus and pine in thirty years. This information plus Jerry’s talk “Why the Oakland Hills Will Burn Again” is included in a flash drive that he gave to each of us. Carroll would like to see Jerry’s work published. Jerry stated that the Claremont Canyon Conservancy is thinking of it. Amelia suggested that we could co -host a symposium with them in lieu of our annual meeting. Amelia and Jerry will investigate that possibility.Carroll pointed out that urban development is a critical part of fire safety and should be addressed.
BAY AREA TRAILS AND BICYCLES :Amelia gave overview of STEP, the group against EBMUD’s possible addition of mountain bikes trails in watershed lands. RPA has already voted on a resolution again mountain bikes anywhere on watershed lands.
Concern by RPA board members was expressed over the Crockett Hills Regional Park trail, a single track trail built for mountain bikes but open to all.
Board members are deeply concerned about safety on this roller-coaster trail and afraid this designing expecially for mountain bikes sets a precedent for EBRP. Reg commented that this type of recreation has resulted in loss of wildlife. Therefore we believe that an EIR is necessary for these trails and also an adaptive management plan possibly including cameras to identify wildlife use and patterns.
RPA BOARD: Two positions are open.
OTHER: Discussion of Indian Valley and Bollinger areas in Moraga. Indian Valley (near Valle Vista Staging Area) has long been designated by EBMUD as important watershed land. A new proposal for 71 homes here was submitted to the Town of Moraga in December 2016.
It was suggested that we invite new EBRP Board members Colin Coffey and Ellen Corbett to one of our meetings.
Meeting adjourned 11:15 NEXT MEETING MARCH 6.
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MINUTES- RPA BOARD MEETING-JANUARY 9, 2017
Meeting called to order at 9:40 by President Amelia Wilson. PRESENT: Dee, Reg, Marty, Carroll, Tim. ABSENT: Judi, Jerry, Joe.
AGENDA approved. MINUTES approved.
Treasurer’s REPORT: $2,121.41 on hand. $500.00 check to Save Tesla outstanding.
DEE ROSARIO joins the EBRP Board tomorrow Jan 10 in a swearing in ceremony. Dee stated that the Board will assign its members to various Standing Committees (including RPA), Dee was asked to send us an e-mail apprising us of pertinent issues including McCosker and Western Hills properties. There will be a meeting January18 at 6:30 in the Trudeau Center regarding an LUP for these properties.. The original proposal was for 150 campsites on McCosker Ranch. The Western Hills property is mitigation for Wilder Ranch, and is adjacent to McCosker.
TESLA: Four separate lawsuits have been filed against the state. Dee will investigate EBRP
joining in.
STEP: Helen Burke led December’s meeting. MSP to eliminate single track trails from the proposed mountain bike trails. there will be a 1-year pilot of EBMUD’s bicycle plan. It is obvious that EBMUD will need to increase enforcement over and above their current $1 million contract with EBRP Park Police. Discussion continued regarding enforcement. Reg suggested signs be posted at both EBRP and EBMUD giving park police phone numbers and encouraging documentation. It was mentioned that Oakland has a “click-fix”- complaints are called in and assigned a number, facilitating follow-through.
TREASURER: We need a new treasurer.
OTHER: The National Wildlife Federation has chosen Lake Merritt to host National Wildlife Week. Discussion of potential new board members. Kaplan. Meeting adjourned 10:30 DUES are now due
NEXT MEETING FEB 6, 2017.
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