Final_Rincon_IS-MND.pdf

FINAL

Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration

Rincon Fire Station Replacement Project

SCH#2017121044

San Diego County, California

Prepared by:

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

The Lead Agency Pursuant to Section 21082.1 of the California Environmental Quality Act

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

P.O. Box 944246 Sacramento, CA 94244-2460

(916) 653-0839

January 29, 2018

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 2

Contents

FINAL MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION

Attachment A

Introduction and Regulatory Context

Project Background and Environmental Setting

Conclusion of the Mitigated Negative Declaration

INITIAL STUDY/Environmental Checklist

Determination

ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Aesthetics

Agriculture and Forest Resources

Air Quality

Biological Resources

Discussion

Cultural Resources

Geology and Soils

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Hazards and Hazardous Materials

Hydrology and Water Quality

Land Use and Planning

Mineral Resources

Noise

Population and Housing

Public Services

Recreation

Transportation/Traffic

Utilities and Service Systems

Mandatory Findings of Significance

List of Preparers Bibliography……………………………………………………………………………………………121

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 3

FINAL MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION

Rincon Fire Station (FS) Replacement Project

Lead Agency: State of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)

Project Location: The project is located on a 2.77-acre site at 16971 State Route 76 (SR-76) on Assessor’s Parcel Number 133-050-0900 in San Diego County.

Project Description: The Rincon Fire Station (FS) Replacement Project (Project) consists of the demolition of an existing Fire Station and the construction of a new Fire Station and related facilities on the same site. The structures to be demolished includes a barracks building (3,262 sf) with attached garage (913 sf), ancillary structures (a 216-sf gas house and pump house). The proposed replacement Fire Station consists of: 1) a 12-bed barracks/messhall building (3,934 sf),

2) a 2-engine 3-bay apparatus building (3,230 sf), 3) a generator/pump/storage building (648 sf) with an emergency generator and transfer switch, 4) a self-contained breathing apparatus building, 5) a hose wash rack with canopy and equipment building (1,008 sf), and 6) ancillary improvements including fuel tank and pad, a vehicle wash rack, underground utilities, a propane system, a new septic system and leach field, trash enclosure, water storage tank and underground utilities.

In addition to the improvements described, the project would include additional components as follows:

▪ Site improvements consisting of site grading, paving for road and parking areas, installation of retaining walls, curbs, gutters and sidewalks, storage and distribution systems, wastewater disposal systems, drainage systems and erosion control measures;

▪ New site lighting;

▪ New site landscaping and irrigation system;

▪ New perimeter gate and automatic access gate; and

▪ New CAL FIRE Station sign and platform.

Finding: Based on the information contained in the attached Initial Study, CAL FIRE finds that there would not be a significant effect to the environment because the mitigation measures would be incorporated as part of the proposed project.

Public Review Period: December 18, 2017 to January 19, 2018.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 4

MITIGATION MEASURES INCORPORATED INTO THE PROJECT TO

AVOID SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS

Air Quality

Mitigation Measure AQ-1 Fugitive Dust Control:

• Construction or demolition activity shall not create dust emissions beyond the property line for a period or periods for more than three minutes in any one hour period through implementation of watering active construction sites at least twice daily or as needed.

• Excavated materials shall be wetted with water and covered until proper disposal is completed.

• Visible roadway dust as a result of active operations, spillage from transport trucks, erosion, or track-out/carry-out shall:

a) Be minimized using any of the following or equally effective methods: track-out/carry-out grates or gravel beds at each egress point, wheel-washing at each egress during muddy conditions, soil binders, chemical soil stabilizers, geotextiles, mulching, or seeding; and for outbound transport trucks: using secured tarps or cargo covering, watering, or treating of transported material; and

b) Be removed at the conclusion of each work day when active operations cease, or every 24 hours for continuous operations. If a street sweeper is used to remove any track-out/carry-out, only PM10-efficient street sweepers certified to meet the most current South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1186 requirements shall be used. The use of blowers for removal of track-out/carry-out is prohibited under any circumstances.

Biology

Mitigation Measure BIO-1 Nesting Bird Surveys:

1. A pre-construction nesting bird survey of suitable habitat for nests associated with protected species on the project site shall be conducted within 7 days prior to the commencement of construction during the nesting season (February 1 through August 31). Pre-construction nesting surveys are not required for construction activities outside of the nesting season (September 1 through January 31).

2. If existing nest is found to be occupied or if additional nests are found, a no-disturbance buffer around the nest shall be established. The buffer distance shall be established by a qualified biologist (or forester) in accordance with CDFW recommendations. The buffer shall be maintained until the fledglings are capable of flight and become independent of the nest tree, as determined by a qualified biologist (or forester). Once construction activities commence, nests will be monitored by a qualified biologist (or forester) to detect any behavioral changes resulting from construction activities. If behavioral changes are observed that may result in adverse effects to the success of breeding, the work causing

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 5 the change shall cease and consultation with CDFW shall be initiated to identify potential avoidance and minimization measures.

Cultural Resources

Mitigation Measure CR-1 Ground Disturbance Monitoring:

Prior to commencing ground-disturbing activities, the contractor doing the work and/or project director supervising such work shall notify a CAL FIRE archaeologist.

The CAL FIRE archaeologist shall contact the Luiseno (or Rincon) tribal representative.

The CAL FIRE archaeologist and tribal representative shall be present on site to monitor the soil disturbance and subsurface excavation activities.

Mitigation Measure CR-2 Accidental Discovery:

In the event of discovery of cultural or paleontological resources, work shall cease in that area while the CAL FIRE archeologist and tribal representative evaluate said find.

Construction work may continue is other areas of the project, as determined by the CAL FIRE archaeologist, until the discovery is examined and evaluated. Unanticipated discoveries of cultural resources shall include: (1) appropriate documentation (site record(s)) and (2) re-burying on site in a location where the cultural resources will not be disturbed in the future. Paleontological resources shall be treated as prescribed by the CAL FIRE archaeologist. The CAL FIRE archeologist shall notify the project director when work can continue in the area of the discovery.

Mitigation Measure CR-3 Human Remains:

In the event of discovery of human remains, whether intact, fragmentary, or displaced from their original context, the County Coroner and the Native American Heritage Commission, West Sacramento (916-653-4082), shall be notified of the discovery immediately, and all work in the vicinity of the find shall cease, as determined by the CAL FIRE archaeologist, and there shall be no further excavation or disturbance of the find site or any nearby area reasonably suspected to overlie adjacent remains until the coroner of that county in which the remains are discovered has determined whether the remains are those of a Native American. If the remains are determined to be Native American, the coroner must contact the California Native American Heritage Commission.

Public Resources Code Section §5097.98 specify the procedures to be followed in the event of discovery of human remains on non-federal land. The disposition of Native American burials is within the jurisdiction of the Native American Heritage Commission. Upon request, the Native American Heritage Commission will provide the project director with a list of most likely descendants, who will specify treatment and disposition of any Native American remains found within the area of potential effect of the project. Final disposition of the human remains is subject to approval of the landowner. Human remains and associated grave goods are protected under Public Resources Code § 5097.94 and Health and Safety Code § 7050.5.

Geology and Soils

Mitigation Measure GEO-1 Unstable Soils:

The proposed Rincon FS Project shall incorporate the recommendations discussed in Geotechnical Investigation – Rincon Fire Station as a part of Project implementation.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 6

Hazards and Hazardous Materials

Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 Notification to the San Diego Air Pollution Control District:

CAL FIRE shall submit a NOTIFICATION OF ASBESTOS RENOVATION OR DEMOLITION OPERATIONS form to the San Diego Air Pollution Control District at least 30 days prior to demolition activities.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-2 Asbestos Demolition Requirements:

Demolition activities shall be performed under the direction of an Independent State Certified Asbestos Consultant with oversight performed by a State Certified Site Surveillance Technician. All materials shall be disposed of at an approved facility licensed to handle such waste.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-3 Lead-Containing Paint (LCP):

Contractors removing deteriorated LCP shall use personnel who have lead-related construction certification as supervisors or workers, as appropriate, from the California Department of Public Health for LCP removal work. Contractors shall inform the landfill of the contractor’s intent to dispose of hazardous waste.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-3 Notification to Contractors and Building Occupants:

In accordance with the Office of Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Construction Asbestos Standards, CAL FIRE shall notify the following persons of the presence, location and quantity of asbestos or material presumed to contain asbestos at any concentration, at the work sites in their buildings and facilities:

a. Prospective contractors applying or bidding for work whose employees reasonably can be expected to work in or adjacent to areas containing such material;

b. Employees who will work in or adjacent to areas containing such material;

c. All employers of employees who will be performing work within or adjacent to areas containing such materials; and

d. CAL FIRE staff who occupy areas containing such material or will be overseeing work conducted onsite.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-4 OSHA Pre-job Notification:

In accordance with California Code of Regulations Title 8, Section 1532.1(e), the contractor shall provide a written Pre-job Notification to the nearest Cal/OSHA office within 24 hours of the start of work.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-5 Universal Waste:

In accordance with California’s Universal Waste Rule (CCR, Title 22, Division 4.5, Chapter 23) and DTSC, the following shall be implemented:

a. Fluorescent light tubes shall be removed and managed for recycling.

b. Light ballasts that are unlabeled, or lacking a “No PCBs” designation on their labels, shall be removed from the light fixtures and managed as a hazardous waste.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 8

MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN

Introduction In accordance with CEQA, an MND that identifies adverse impacts related to the construction activity for the Rincon Fire Station Replacement project was prepared. Mitigation measures have been identified that would reduce or eliminate these impacts.

Section 21081.6 of the Public Resources Code and Sections 15091(d) and 15097 of the State CEQA Guidelines require public agencies to adopt a reporting and monitoring program for changes to the project which it has adopted or made a condition of project approval in order to mitigate or avoid significant effects on the environment. A MMRP is required for the proposed project, because the IS/MND identified potentially significant adverse impacts related to construction activity, and mitigation measures have been identified to mitigate these impacts.

Adoption of the MMRP will occur along with the approval of the project.

Purpose of the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan This MMRP has been prepared to ensure that all required mitigation measures are implemented and completed according to schedule and maintained in a satisfactory manner during the construction and operation of the proposed project. The MMRP may be modified by CAL FIRE during project implementation as necessary, in response to changing conditions or other project refinements. The following table has been prepared to assist the responsible parties in implementing the MMRP. This table identifies the category of significant environmental impact(s), individual mitigation measures, monitoring and mitigation timing, responsible person/agency for implementing the measure, monitoring and reporting procedures, and notation space to confirm implementation of the mitigation measures. The numbering of the mitigation measures follows the numbering sequence in the IS/MND.

Roles and Responsibilities CAL FIRE, as lead agency, is responsible for oversight of compliance of the mitigation measures in the MMRP.

Rincon fire station replacement project Mitigation and monitoring reporting plan

Mitigation Measure Monitoring Activity/Timing/

Frequency/ Schedule

Implementation/ Responsibility/

Verification

Responsibility for Oversight of/ Compliance/ Verification

Outside Agency Coordination

Comments

Mitigation Measure AQ-1 Fugitive Dust Control:

• Construction or demolition activity shall not create dust emissions beyond the property line for a period or periods for more than three minutes in any one hour period through implementation of watering active construction sites at least twice daily or as needed.

• Excavated materials shall be wetted with water and covered until proper disposal is completed.

• Visible roadway dust as a result of active operations, spillage from transport trucks, erosion, or track-out/carry-out shall:

a. Be minimized using any of the following or equally effective methods: track-out/carry-out grates or gravel beds at each egress point, wheel-washing at each egress during muddy conditions, soil binders, chemical soil stabilizers, geotextiles, mulching, or seeding; and for outbound transport trucks: using secured tarps or cargo covering, watering, or treating of transported material; and

b. Be removed at the conclusion of each work day when active operations cease, or every 24 hours for continuous operations. If a street sweeper is used to remove any track-out/carry-out, only PM10-efficient street sweepers certified to meet the most current South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1186 requirements shall be used.

The use of blowers for removal of track-out/carry-out is prohibited under any circumstances.

Activity: Dust Control.

Timing: During construction.

Frequency: As required.

Project Contractor

Initials

Date

CAL FIRE

• A pre-construction nesting bird survey of suitable habitat for nests associated with protected species on the project site shall be conducted within 7 days prior to the commencement of construction during the nesting season (February 1 through August 31). Pre-construction nesting surveys are not required for construction activities outside

• If existing nest is found to be occupied or if additional nests are found, a no-disturbance buffer around the nest

Activity: Conduct pre-construction nesting bird surveys.

Timing: 7 days prior to construction activities during February 1 through August 31.

Frequency: Once prior to construction.

Project Biologist/Forester

Possible coordination with CDFW.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 10

Monitoring Activity/Timing/

Frequency/ Schedule

Implementation/ Responsibility/

Verification

Responsibility for Oversight of/ Compliance/ Verification

Outside Agency Coordination

Comments shall be established. The buffer distance shall be established by a qualified biologist (or forester) in accordance with CDFW recommendations. The buffer shall be maintained until the fledglings are capable of flight and become independent of the nest tree, as determined by a qualified biologist (or forester). Once construction activities commence, nests will be monitored by a qualified biologist (or forester) to detect any behavioral changes resulting from construction activities.

If behavioral changes are observed that may result in adverse effects to the success of breeding, the work causing the change shall cease and consultation with CDFW shall be initiated to identify potential avoidance and minimization measures.

Mitigation Measure CR-1 Ground Disturbance

Monitoring:

Prior to commencing ground-disturbing activities, the contractor doing the work and/or project director supervising such work shall notify a CAL FIRE archaeologist. The CAL FIRE archaeologist shall contact the Luiseno (or Rincon) tribal representative.

The CAL FIRE archaeologist and tribal representative shall be present on site to monitor the soil disturbance and subsurface excavation activities.

In the event of discovery of cultural or paleontological resources, work shall cease in that area while the CAL FIRE archeologist and tribal representative evaluate said find. Construction work may continue is other areas of the project, as determined by the CAL FIRE archaeologist, until the discovery is examined and evaluated. Unanticipated discoveries of cultural resources shall include: (1) appropriate documentation (site record(s)) and (2) re-burying on site in a location where the cultural resources will not be disturbed in the future. Paleontological resources shall be treated as prescribed by the CAL FIRE archaeologist. The CAL

Activity: Contact CAL FIRE archaeologist for monitoring.

Timing: Prior to ground disturbance.

Frequency: Once prior to construction.

Activity: If archaeological or paleontological materials are found then ground disturbance activities shall cease and a CAL FIRE archaeologist shall be notified.

Timing: During construction.

Archaeologist with tribal representatives.

with tribal representatives and

SHPO.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 11

Frequency/ Schedule

Implementation/ Responsibility/

Verification

Responsibility for Oversight of/ Compliance/ Verification

Outside Agency Coordination

Comments

FIRE archeologist shall notify the project director when work can continue in the area of the discovery.

In the event of discovery of human remains, whether intact, fragmentary, or displaced from their original context, the County Coroner and the Native American Heritage Commission, West Sacramento (916-653- 4082), shall be notified of the discovery immediately, and all work in the vicinity of the find shall cease, as determined by the CAL FIRE archaeologist, and there shall be no further excavation or disturbance of the find site or any nearby area reasonably suspected to overlie adjacent remains until the coroner of that county in which the remains are discovered has determined whether the remains are those of a Native American. If the remains are determined to be Native American, the coroner must contact the California Native American Heritage Commission. Public Resources Code Section §5097.98 specify the procedures to be followed in the event of discovery of human remains on non-federal land. The disposition of Native American burials is within the jurisdiction of the Native American Heritage Commission. Upon request, the Native American Heritage Commission will provide the project director with a list of most likely descendants (MLD), who will specify treatment and disposition of any Native American remains found within the area of potential effect of the project. Final disposition of the human remains is subject to approval of the landowner. Human remains and associated grave goods are protected under Public Resources Code § 5097.94 and Health and Safety Code § 7050.5.

Activity: Unanticipated human remains discovery, determination and relocation.

Timing: During construction.

with San Diego County Coroner, SHPO, NAHC, and MLD.

Mitigation Measure GEO-1 Unstable Soils:

The proposed Rincon FS Project shall incorporate the recommendations discussed in Geotechnical Investigation

– Rincon Fire Station as a part of Project implementation.

Activity: Incorporate site specific geotechnical recommendations into design of Rincon fire station.

Timing: In design and during construction.

Frequency: As required.

CAL FIRE Project Director

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 12

Frequency/ Schedule

Implementation/ Responsibility/

Verification

Responsibility for Oversight of/ Compliance/ Verification

Outside Agency Coordination

Comments

Project Engineer

Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 Notification to the San Diego Air Pollution Control District:

CAL FIRE shall submit a NOTIFICATION OF ASBESTOS RENOVATION OR DEMOLITION OPERATIONS form to the San Diego Air Pollution Control District at least 30 days prior to demolition activities.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-2 Asbestos Demolition Requirements:

Demolition activities shall be performed under the direction of an Independent State Certified Asbestos Consultant with oversight performed by a State Certified Site Surveillance Technician. All materials shall be disposed of at an approved facility licensed to handle such waste.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-3 Lead-Containing Paint (LCP):

Contractors removing deteriorated LCP shall use personnel who have lead-related construction certification as supervisors or workers, as appropriate, from the California Department of Public Health for LCP removal work. Contractors shall inform the landfill of the contractor’s intent to dispose of hazardous waste.

Activity: Notify San Diego Air Pollution Control District of demolition.

Timing: At least 30 days prior to construction.

Frequency: Once prior to construction.

Activity: State Certified Asbestos Consultant oversight.

Timing: During demolition activities.

Activity: State Certified Asbestos Consultant oversight.

Timing: During demolition activities.

CAL FIRE Project Director with San Diego Air Pollution Control District.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 13

Frequency/ Schedule

Implementation/ Responsibility/

Verification

Responsibility for Oversight of/ Compliance/ Verification

Outside Agency Coordination

Comments

Mitigation Measure HAZ-3 Notification to Contractors and Building Occupants:

In accordance with the Office of Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Construction Asbestos Standards, CAL FIRE shall notify the following persons of the presence, location and quantity of asbestos or material presumed to contain asbestos at any concentration, at the work sites in their buildings and facilities:

a. Prospective contractors applying or bidding for work whose employees reasonably can be expected to work in or adjacent to areas containing such material;

b. Employees who will work in or adjacent to areas containing such material;

c. All employers of employees who will be performing work within or adjacent to areas containing such materials; and

d. CAL FIRE staff who occupy areas containing such material or will be overseeing work conducted onsite.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-4 OSHA Pre-job Notification:

In accordance with California Code of Regulations Title 8, Section 1532.1(e), the contractor shall provide a written Pre-job Notification to the nearest Cal/OSHA office within 24 hours of the start of work.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-5 Universal Waste:

In accordance with California’s Universal Waste Rule (CCR, Title 22, Division 4.5, Chapter 23) and DTSC, the following shall be implemented:

a. Fluorescent light tubes shall be removed and managed for recycling.

b. Light ballasts that are unlabeled, or lacking a “No PCBs” designation on their labels, shall be removed from the light fixtures and managed as a hazardous waste.

c. Fuels and other highly flammable materials

Activity: Notification to contractors and building occupants.

Timing: Prior to demolition activities.

Activity: Cal/OSHA notification.

Timing: Prior to demolition activities.

Frequency: Once prior to demolition.

Activity: Universal waste requirements.

Timing: During demolition and construction.

Project Director with Cal-OSHA.

with Cal-OSHA.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 14

Frequency/ Schedule

Implementation/ Responsibility/

Verification

Responsibility for Oversight of/ Compliance/ Verification

Outside Agency Coordination

Comments

(solvents, paints, etc.) shall be stored in approved combustible storage cabinets.

d. Storage drums shall be stored on secondary (spill) containment pallets with spill kits (e.g. absorbent, berms, wipes, etc.) readily accessible in drum and fuel storage areas.

e. Removal of universal wastes or suspect hazardous materials from the project site for recycling or disposal shall be conducted by contractors licensed to handle, transport, and/or dispose of universal wastes and hazardous wastes.

Mitigation Measure HAZ-6 Soils:

All soil that is proposed for excavation and disposal shall be sampled to ensure adherence to all applicable laws and regulations regarding contaminants. Additionally, any imported soil shall be properly evaluated or sampled prior to use on the project site.

Activity: Soil testing.

Timing: Prior to excavation and soil import.

Frequency: Once prior to soil disposal or soil import.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 15

COMMENTS AND RESPONSES

This section of the document contains copies of the comment letters received during the 30-day public review period, which began on December 18, 2017 and ended January 19, 2018. In conformance with the Section 15088(a) of the State CEQA Guidelines, CAL FIRE has considered comments on environmental issues from reviewers of the Draft IS/MND and has prepared written responses. One letter was received, commenting on the Draft IS/MND. Additionally, a letter from the State Clearinghouse, acknowledging that CAL FIRE has complied with review requirements, was received. These letters, and the responses to comments contained in the letters are provided in this section.

List of Comment Letters

A list of public agencies, organizations, and individuals that provided comments on the Draft IS/MND is presented below. The letters and the responses to the comments follow this page.

Letter Number

Sender Date Received

1 Department of Toxic Substances Control 1/4/18

2 Governor’s Office of Planning and Research 1/17/18

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 16

LETTER 1

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 17

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 18

Letter 1 Response to Comments

Response to Comment 1:

Prior to the Rincon FS being constructed, the project site was undeveloped and consisted of native chaparral vegetation. Cal Fire constructed the Rincon FS buildings in 1958 and 1961. No other uses have occurred onsite. The uses onsite would not have resulted in the release of hazardous waste or substances which could have resulted in contamination. A search was conducted and a review of all known toxic listings maintained by federal, state, and local agencies was completed. CAL FIRE verified that the project site is not located near a known or suspected hazardous material contamination area, near hazardous or toxic materials and regulated waste, discharge or spillage incidents, discharge permits, landfills, and storage tanks within a one mile radius. Wording has been revised to include this information.

Response to Comment 2:

Comment noted. No known environmental conditions occur on the project site that would require investigation, sampling and remedial actions. The site has only been used as a fire station and no activities that would require further remedial actions have occurred.

Response to Comment 3:

The project site was never used for agricultural purposes. Prior to the Rincon FS being constructed the project site and uses immediately adjacent to the site were in a natural undeveloped state consisting of chaparral vegetation.

Response to Comment 4:

The project site does not contain any transformers that could contain PCBs. The site is served by an adjacent power pole that is owned by San Diego Gas and Electric. Should the new fire station require an upgraded transformer, San Diego Gas and Electric would be the lead agency and would comply with all applicable local, state, and federal related regulations.

Response to Comment 5:

All soil that is proposed for excavation and disposal would be sampled to ensure adherence to all applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, any imported soil would be properly evaluated/sampled prior to use on the project site. Discussion and Mitigation Measure HAZ-6 has been incorporated into the Final MND.

Response to Comment 6:

No contamination is anticipated on the project site. The uses on the project site are not the type of uses that would create contaminated soil or groundwater. However, Mitigation Measure HAZ-6 has been incorporated to ensure that if export or imported soil is necessary, precautions would be implemented to mitigate possible unknown contaminants.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 19

LETTER 2

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 20

Letter 2 Response to Comments

This letter acknowledges that Cal Fire has complied with the State Clearinghouse review requirements for draft environmental documents and does not require a response.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 21

ATTACHMENTS

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 22

Attachment A

STATE OF CALIFORNIA THE NATURAL RESOURCES AGENCY EDMUND G. BROWN, Governor

DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION

Notice Date: December 18, 2017

NOTICE OF INTENT

TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION

Project Name: Rincon Fire Station Replacement

The State of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is the Lead Agency for the proposed Rincon Fire Station (FS) Replacement Project (Project). In compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code § 21000 et seq.) and Department procedures, notification is hereby given to responsible and trustee agencies, interest groups and the general public, that the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection proposes to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project described below.

Project Location: The project is at 16971 State Route 76, in Pauma Valley, California, 92061, in San Diego County.

Project Description: The Rincon FS Project consists of the demolition of an existing Fire Station and the construction of a new Fire Station and related facilities on the same site. The structures to be demolished includes a barracks building (3,262 sf) with attached garage (913 sf), ancillary structures (a 216-sf gas house and pump house). The proposed replacement Fire Station consists of: 1) a 12-bed barracks/messhall building (3,934 sf), 2) a 2-engine, 3-bay apparatus building (3,230 sf), 3) a generator/pump/storage building (648 sf) with an emergency generator and transfer switch, 4) a self-contained breathing apparatus building, 5) a hose wash rack with canopy and equipment building (1,008 sf), and 6) ancillary improvements including fuel tank and pad, a vehicle wash rack, underground utilities, a propane system, a new septic system and leach field, trash enclosure, water storage tank and underground utilities.

In addition to the improvements described above, the project would include the following additional components:

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 23

Public Review Period: The draft Mitigated Negative Declaration will undergo a 30-day public review period during which comments may be submitted. The review period begins on December 4, 2017 and ends on January 5, 2018. Written comments regarding the contents of the Mitigated Negative Declaration should be sent to:

Contact Person:

Christina Snow, Senior Environmental Planner California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Technical Services Section P.O. Box 944246 Sacramento, CA 94244-2460

Phone Number: (916) 324-1639

Written comments may also be sent via e-mail using the e-mail address provided below:

Email: sacramentopubliccomment@fire.ca.gov

A copy of the draft Mitigated Negative Declaration, Initial Study, and supporting documentation are available for review at the following locations:

1. CAL FIRE San Diego Unit Headquarters, 2249 Jamacha Road, El Cajon, California, 92019.

2. CAL FIRE Rincon Fire Station, 16971 State Route 76, in Pauma Valley, California, 92061.

3. CAL FIRE Technical Services, 1300 U Street, Sacramento, CA 95818.

The Notice of Intent is posted at the following locations:

1. CAL FIRE San Diego Unit Headquarters, 2249 Jamacha Road, El Cajon, California 92019.

2. CAL FIRE Rincon Fire Station, 16971 State Route 76, Pauma Valley, California 92061.

3. United States Post Office, 16160 State Route 76, Pauma Valley, California 92061.

4. Pauma Valley Community Services, 33129 Cole Grade Road, Pauma Valley, CA 92061.

The CEQA documents are also available on-line at:

http://www.fire.ca.gov/resource_mgt/resource_mgt_EPRP_PublicNotice.php.

mailto:sacramentopubliccomment@fire.ca.gov http://www.fire.ca.gov/resource_mgt/resource_mgt_EPRP_PublicNotice.php

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 24

INTRODUCTION AND REGULATORY CONTEXT

Stage of CEQA Document Development

Administrative Draft. This California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) document is in preparation by California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) staff.

Public Document. This completed CEQA document has been filed by CAL FIRE at the

State Clearinghouse and is being circulated for a 30-day agency and public review period.

The public review period begins December 4, 2017 and ends on January 19, 2018.

Final CEQA Document. This Final CEQA document contains the changes made by the

Department following consideration of comments received during the public and agency review period. The changes are displayed in strike-out text for deletions and underlined text for insertions. The CEQA administrative record supporting this document is on file, and available for review, at CAL FIRE’s Sacramento Headquarters, Environmental Protection Program, which is located in the Natural Resources Building, 1416 Ninth Street, 15th Floor, Sacramento, California.

Introduction This Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND1) describes the environmental impact analysis conducted for the proposed project. This document was prepared by CAL FIRE staff utilizing information gathered from a number of sources including research and field review of the proposed project area and consultation with environmental planners and other experts on staff at other public agencies. Pursuant to Section 21082.1 of the CEQA, the lead agency, CAL FIRE, has prepared, reviewed, and analyzed the IS/MND and declares that the statements made in this document reflect CAL FIRE’s independent judgment as lead agency pursuant to CEQA. CAL FIRE further finds that the proposed project, which includes revised activities and mitigation measures designed to minimize environmental impacts, will not result in significant adverse effects on the environment.

Regulatory Guidance This IS/MND has been prepared by CAL FIRE to evaluate potential environmental effects which could result following approval and implementation of the proposed project. This document has been prepared in accordance with current CEQA Statutes (Public Resources Code §21000 et seq.) and current CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations [CCR] §15000 et seq.).

An initial study is prepared by a lead agency to determine if a project may have a significant effect on the environment (14 CCR § 15063[a]), and thus, to determine the appropriate environmental document. In accordance with CEQA Guidelines §15070, a “public agency shall prepare…a proposed negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration…when: (a) The initial study shows that there is no substantial evidence…that the project may have a significant impact upon the environment, or (b) The initial study identifies potentially significant effects but revisions to the project plans or proposal are agreed to by the applicant and such revisions will reduce potentially significant effects to a less-than-significant level.” In this circumstance, the lead agency prepares

1 A list and definition of the acronyms and symbols used in this CEQA document is presented on pages 113-116.

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 25 a written statement describing its reasons for concluding that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment and, therefore, does not require the preparation of an environmental impact report (EIR). This IS/MND conforms to these requirements and to the content requirements of CEQA Guidelines Section 15071.

Purpose of the Initial Study CAL FIRE has primary authority for carrying out the proposed project and is the lead agency under CEQA. The purpose of this IS/MND is to present to the public and reviewing agencies the environmental consequences of implementing the proposed project and describe the adjustments made to the project to avoid significant environmental effects or reduce them to a less-than-significant level. This disclosure document is being made available to the public, and reviewing agencies, for review and comment. The IS/MND is being circulated for public and agency review and comment for a review period of 30 days as indicated on the notice of intent to adopt a mitigated negative declaration (NOI).

The requirements for providing an NOI are found in CEQA Guidelines §15072. These guidelines require CAL FIRE to notify the general public by utilizing at least one of the following three procedures:

• Publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the area affected by the proposed project,

• Posting the NOI on and off site in the area where the project is to be located, or

• Direct mailing to the owners and occupants of property contiguous to the project.

CAL FIRE has elected to utilize the second notification option. The NOI was posted at four prominent locations on and off site in the area where the project is located for the entire 30-day public review period.

1. Notices were posted on the Rincon FS, at the MVU Headquarters office, the Pauma Valley Post Office, and at the Valley Center Branch Library.

A complete copy of this CEQA document was made available for review by any member of the public requesting to see it at the locations identified above. An electronic version of the NOI and the CEQA document were made available for review for the entire 30-day review period through their posting on CAL FIRE’s Internet Web Pages at:

http://www.fire.ca.gov/resource_mgt/resource_mgt_EPRP_PublicNotice.php

If submitted prior to the close of public comment, views and comments are welcomed from reviewing agencies or any member of the public on how the proposed project may affect the environment. Written comments must be postmarked or submitted on or prior to the date the public review period will close (as indicated on the NOI) for CAL FIRE’s consideration. Written comments may also be submitted via email (using the email address which appears below) but comments sent via email must also be received on or prior to the close of the 30-day public comment period. Comments should be addressed to:

http://www.fire.ca.gov/resource_mgt/resource_mgt_EPRP_PublicNotice.php

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 26

Christina Snow, Senior Environmental Planner California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Technical Services P.O. Box 944246 Sacramento, CA 94244-2460 Phone: (916) 324-1639 Email: sacramentopubliccomment@fire.ca.gov

After comments are received from the public and reviewing agencies, CAL FIRE will consider those comments and may (1) adopt the mitigated negative declaration and approve the proposed project; (2) undertake additional environmental studies; or (3) abandon the project. If the project is approved and funded, CAL FIRE could design and construct all or part of the project.

PROJECT BACKGROUND AND ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING

Background and Need for the Project The original Rincon Fire Station (FS) buildings were constructed in 1962 as a two-engine station on a 2.77-acre parcel (133-050-0900). The buildings currently onsite include barracks and mess hall, garage, fuel vault, 3-bay apparatus building and other site improvements including gravel areas and concrete, stone wall raised garden area and associated infrastructure improvements.

The initial area that Rincon FS lies in consists mainly of heavy brush that cover steep slopes in the area. The station serves several small remote communities and has served as the Amador contract station under Yuima Water District for over 30 years. The Rincon FS has primary wildland responsibility for approximately 49,000 acres including the Palomar State Park. The station provides fire, medical, rescue, and public service response to the community of Pauma Valley. The Rincon FS is considered vital to CAL FIRE’s mission of protecting over 1.4 million acres of State Responsibility Area on local, state and federal and tribal lands in San Diego County. This geographic area is home to several recreational areas with heavy visitation from throughout the county.

The Rincon FS houses two engines with four person crews on each, resulting in a minimum of eight firefighters on duty each day during the eight-month peak staffing period, and four firefighters during the winter months. This facility responds to an average of 600 calls each year within the station’s response area and over 200 additional calls outside of the local service area.

Since construction of the Rincon Fire Station several operational standards have changed, which renders the current structures inefficient and obsolete. Modern fire engines have become taller and wider to accommodate personnel safety and expanded responsibilities. These modern fire engines cannot fit into the existing apparatus bays. The existing structures onsite are too small and inefficient for modern firefighting crews, and the existing living quarters contain only one restroom with a crew of up to eight adults of different sexes. Design standards have also substantially changed since the station was constructed, and, although there have been regular maintenance improvements, the structures do not provide for a safe and healthy environment for the crew onsite. The structures can no longer accommodate the necessary equipment and staff to carry out CAL FIRE’s mission.

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Project Objectives

The new facility will support CAL FIRE’s mission to serve and safeguard the people and protect the property and resources within the State Responsibility Areas of the San Diego Unit.

The following are the objectives of the proposed project:

▪ Replace the existing Rincon FS with a new, modern facility that meets operational requirements.

▪ To improve CAL FIRE’s ability to meet peak demand emergency incident workload through the enhancement of the statewide fire protection system.

Project Description

The Rincon FS Project consists of the demolition of an existing Fire Station and the construction of a new Fire Station and related facilities on the same site. The structures to be demolished include a barracks building (3,262 sf) with attached garage (913 sf), ancillary structures (a 216-sf gas house and a pump house). The proposed replacement Fire Station consists of: 1) a 12-bed barracks/messhall building (3,934 sf), 2) a 2-engine, 3-bay apparatus building (3,230 sf), 3) a generator/pump/storage building (648 sf) with an emergency generator and transfer switch, 4) a self-contained breathing apparatus building, 5) a hose wash rack with canopy and equipment building (1,008 sf), and 6) ancillary improvements including fuel tank and pad, a vehicle wash rack, underground utilities, a propane system, a new septic system and leach field, trash enclosure, water storage tank, and underground utilities.

In addition to the improvements described above, the project would include the following additional components:

Project Region and Description of Local Environment The County of San Diego is located in the southwestern corner of California and is comprised of approximately 2.9 million acres. The county includes 18 incorporated cities and the remainder of the county is unincorporated (approximately 2.3 million acres). The county is bordered by Riverside and Orange Counties to the north; Imperial County to the east; the Country of Mexico to the south; and eighteen incorporated jurisdictions and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

The county has a varied topography, semi-arid (Mediterranean) and arid (desert) climates, and geology make it a biologically diverse region. Three distinctive geographic regions exist, from

Final Rincon Forest Station Replacement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration 28 west to east and include, the low-lying Coastal Plain, the mountainous Peninsular Range, and the desert Salton (Imperial) Basin.

The project site is located within the San Luis Rey watershed in the northern portion of San Diego County at 16971 State Route 76 (SR-76) in Pauma Valley, California. The station is adjacent to the rural unincorporated community of Rincon (Figure 1. Project Vicinity). This area is part of the Pala-Pauma Valley Subregion which consists of approximately 73,700 acres and is comprised of the small rural communities of Pala, Pauma Valley, and Rincon Springs. The Subregion is bordered by Riverside County to the north, the Rainbow Fallbrook, and Community Plan Area’s (CPAs) to the west, the Valley Center CPA and the NC Metro Subregion to the south, and the North Mountain Subregion to the east.

Approximately 20,900 acres within this Subregion are under the tribal ownership of the Pala, Pauma, Yuima, Rincon and La Jolla Indian Tribes. Several of these reservations include large casino and resort developments, including the Pala, La Jolla, and Rincon Reservations. The Rincon Indian Reservation is located approximately 0.3 miles to the south and the Pauma Indian Reservation is approximately 0.3 miles to the southwest.

Most of the area is undeveloped, designated as parkland, or used in agricultural production.

Agricultural uses surround the project site. Scattered rural residential uses are located beyond the agricultural lands that border the project site. Although the project area (Pauma Valley) is relatively flat, it is bounded on all sides by highly constrained steep slopes. The San Luis Rey River provides a corridor for a wide variety of natural habitats and their associated wildlife species as it traverses through central Pauma Valley.

The project is located on a 2.77-acre site on Assessor’s Parcel Number 133-050-0900. The project site is designated as Public Agency Lands and Semi-Rural Residential in the San Diego General Plan while adjacent properties to the east, south, and west are all designated as either Semi-Rural Residential, Rural Lands or Rural Commercial. Zoning for the project site and the surrounding parcels are Rural Residential. The parcel sizes surrounding the project site range in size from 2 to 41 acres. The existing topography of the site is relatively flat with most of it developed with structures and appurtenances as well as a paved area, gravel driveway, graveled area and vegetation (grass and Ice Plant). Scattered oaks, pines, and palm trees exist within the parcel and along the perimeter.

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Figure 1: Project Vicinity Map

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Figure 2: Project Location Map

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Figure 3: Soquel FS Building (Barracks and Messhall)

Figure 4: Apparatus Building

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Figure 5: Fuel Vault Building

Figure 6: Stone Wall and Raised Garden Area

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Figure 7: Stone Archway to Raised Garden

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Figure 8: Large Oak Tree (Northwest portion of property)

Figure 9: Oak Trees…