Goals & Objectives

Public Access Goal 1: Develop the Coastal Trail as a major new recreational amenity, tourist attraction, and alternative transportation system, especially in urban areas, and develop networks of inland trails that connect to the coast and parks and provide other recreational opportunities.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

The Coastal Trail is the Coastal Conservancy’s core public-access strategy. The next five years of activity will consist largely of improving existing public accessways and constructing new accessways in, adjacent to, or connecting population centers, including inland waterways that connect to the coast.

Objective 1A: Continue to support efforts to obtain consensus and refine the alignment of the Coastal Trail.

STRATEGIES

• 1. In cooperation with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the Coastal Commission, local government and affected landowners, determine which alignments of existing trail should be identified as the Coastal Trail.
• 2. Identify gaps between existing trails and develop specific alignments for those areas. Where gaps are caused by river mouths or harbor entrances, identify feasible methods to close gaps, such as pedestrian and bicycle bridges or ferries.
• 3. Identify sections of the Coastal Trail that should be wheelchair accessible.
• 4. Take sea-level rise into consideration when planning alignment.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Consensus with the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Coastal Commission on the alignment of the Coastal Trail.
• 2. Identified methods for closing gaps in the Coastal Trail.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Develop maps to indicate current Coastal Trail that is useable by the public.

GOAL 1 ~ OBJECTIVE 1A BASIS

Based on what has been required to date, to develop maps and obtain consensus about particular alignments.

DISTRIBUTION
Statewide

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$300,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Coastal Access Account
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 1B: Place Coastal Trail signs on approximately 300 miles of existing trails within public and private ownerships.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Determine locations of all designated publicly accessible trails within the Coastal Trail route.
• 2. Request authority be delegated to Executive Officer to provide signs and approve grants for Coastal Trail signage up to $40,000.
• 3. Work with land managers to incorporate these lands into the Coastal Trail and to place signs.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Miles of existing trails that become identifiable as part of the Coastal Trail.
• 2. Maps of the Coastal Trail showing these sections.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Coastal Trail Working Group and Conservancy staff will monitor the completion of this objective.

GOAL 1 ~ OBJECTIVE 1B BASIS

Based on estimates in Completing the California Coastal Trail, up to 300 miles of existing trails can be designated as part of the Coastal Trail during the planning period.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 100 miles
Central Coast: 100 miles
North Coast: 100 miles

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$300,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Coastal Access Account
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 1C: Design approximately 94 miles of trails within public and private ownerships.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Work with land managers to plan new trail segments.
• 2. Prioritize trail routes within public or nonprofit ownerships where trails can be constructed.
• 3. Incorporate latest scientific understanding about sea-level rise into design and siting of trails.
• 4. Identify trail segments that could feasibly accommodate wheelchair riders.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completed plans.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Include projects within GIS (Geographical Information Systems) database and report to Coastal Trail Working Group.

GOAL 1 ~ OBJECTIVE 1C BASIS

Based on analysis in Completing the California Coastal Trail, and given current funding and staff resources, up to 94 miles can be added to the Coastal Trail by planning trails within existing rights-of-way.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 24 miles
Central Coast: 50 miles

North Coast: 20 miles

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$5,700,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Coastal Access Account

Objective 1D: Construct approximately 93 miles of trails within public and private ownerships.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Work with land managers to construct new trail segments.
• 2. Prioritize trail routes within public or nonprofit ownerships where trails can be constructed.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Miles of new trails constructed within existing rights-of-way.
• 2. Miles of new trails constructed that are wheelchair accessible.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Include projects within GIS database and report to Coastal Trail Working Group.

GOAL 1 ~ OBJECTIVE D BASIS

Based on analysis in Completing the California Coastal Trail, and given current funding and staff resources, up to 93 miles can be added to the Coastal Trail in the next five years.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 13 miles
Central Coast: 40 miles
North Coast: 40 miles

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$26,990,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Coastal Access Account

Objective 1E: Design approximately 52 miles of regional trails and river parkways along rivers and creeks to connect inland populations to the coast and expand recreational opportunities.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Provide funding to public agencies and nonprofit organizations to refine plans for inland trails that connect to the coast.
• 2. Identify inland trails that need wheelchair-accessible facilities.
• 3. Prioritize trail routes identified in Completing the California Coastal Trail that connect inland populations to the coast.
• 4. Incorporate predicted alterations in stream flows and channels into siting and design of trails.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completed plans for increased miles of trails connecting inland areas to the Coastal Trail.

GOAL 1 ~ OBJECTIVE 1E BASIS

Based on estimates and analyses of river parkway and urban stream projects by the Conservancy’s regional work groups, 52 miles of regional trails and river parkways can be planned over the next five years. Current projects include San Diego River, Santa Ana River, Los Angeles River, Ballona Creek, San Lorenzo River, Carmel River, Russian River, Big River, and Mad River.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION

North Coast: 30 miles
Central Coast: 12 miles
South Coast: 10 miles

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$7,150,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 84
Proposition 50 (grants from Resources Agency)

Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 1F: Construct approximately 56 miles of regional trails and river parkways along rivers and creeks to connect inland populations to the coast and expand recreational opportunities.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Provide funding to construct inland trails that connect to the coast and recreational facilities, such as parks, along those trails.
• 2. Implement plans developed in Objective E.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Increased miles of trails connecting inland areas to the Coastal Trail 2. Increased parks along inland rivers and creeks.

GOAL 1 ~ OBJECTIVE 1F BASIS

Based on estimates and analyses of river parkway and urban stream projects by the Conservancy’s regional work groups, 56 miles of regional trails and river parkways can be constructed over the next five years. Current projects include San Diego River, Santa Ana River, Los Angeles River, Ballona Creek, Carmel River, San Lorenzo River, Russian River, Big River, and Mad River.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
North Coast: 40 miles
Central Coast: 6 miles
South Coast: 10 miles

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$45,700,000

FUNDING SOURCES

Proposition 84
Proposition 50 (grants from Resources Agency)
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 1G: Assist in 20 projects that secure real property or property interests to facilitate the development of the Coastal Trail and inland connecting trails, or for waterfront parks.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify easements or real property that need to be acquired for purposes of constructing trails or waterfront parks, or other public-access facilities.
• 2. Acquisitions for trail construction should close gaps or provide regional trail connections.
• 3. Target park-poor areas for land acquisitions for waterfront park development.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Additional property available for trail construction or park development.

GOAL 1 ~ OBJECTIVE 1G BASIS

Based on discussions with Conservancy regional managers, up to 20 real estate interests could be secured for the purposes of trail development, parks, or other public-access needs.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
North Coast: 10 projects
Central Coast: 9 projects
South Coast: 1 project

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$9,000,000

Public Access Goal 2: Develop a system of coastal public accessways, open-space areas, and parks.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

Open accessways to currently inaccessible areas, acquire or otherwise protect open space and park areas under threat, and provide funds for major reconstruction of existing facilities, including upgrades for wheelchair accessibility.

Objective 2A: Develop approximately 11 plans to create or improve waterfront or watershed projects, including but not limited to parks along regional trails, multibenefit pocket parks or projects that demonstrate innovative storm water management strategies.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Develop and use definition of “underserved community” to prioritize projects that create parks in underserved communities, especially along river parkways that connect to the Coastal Trail.
• 2. Develop priority projects in coordination with other state and local agencies and nonprofit partners.
• 3. Incorporate latest scientific understanding of sea-level rise into consideration when planning parks and infrastructure.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Plans for new or improved parks or projects.

GOAL 2 ~ OBJECTIVE 2A BASIS

Underserved communities are those communities with a higher ratio of residents per acre of parkland than the county or city average. Based on estimates and analyses provided by the Coastal Access Action Plan (1999), the Coastal Commission, Completing the California Coastal Trail, the Conservancy’s regional managers, and the Southern California Green Visions Project, approximately 11 plans can be developed for recreational multibenefit projects over the next five years.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION

South Coast: 5 projects
Central Coast: 4 projects
North Coast: 2 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,800,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 84
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 2B: Implement approximately 15 projects to create or enhance waterfront or watershed parks, including but not limited to parks along regional trails, multibenefit pocket parks, or projects that demonstrate innovative storm-water management strategies.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Prioritize projects that create parks in under-served communities, especially along river parkways that connect to the Coastal Trail.
• 2. Develop priority projects in coordination with other state and local agencies and nonprofit partners.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. New or improved parks.

GOAL 2 ~ OBJECTIVE 2B BASIS

Based on estimates and analyses provided by Coastal Access Action Plan (1999), the Coastal Commission, Completing the California Coastal Trail, the Conservancy’s regional managers, and the Southern California Green Visions Project, up to 15 park projects can be implemented over the next five years.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 5 areas

Central Coast: 5 areas
North Coast: 5 areas

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$8,100,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 84
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 2C: Open approximately 17 coastal areas that are currently inaccessible or closed to public use while respecting the rights of nearby landowners and the need to minimize impacts on sensitive natural resources.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Give funding priority to the development of accessways to beach and coastal areas that are currently inaccessible or closed to public use.
• 2. Include nearby property owners, local governments, nonprofit partners and resource agencies in planning processes.
• 3. Fund operations and maintenance costs of opening new accessways, when needed.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Public access to areas now closed to the public.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Annual usage reports from property managers.

GOAL 2 ~ OBJECTIVE 2C BASIS

Based on estimates and analyses in the Coastal Access Action Plan (1999), Coastal Commission staff, Completing the California Coastal Trail, and the Conservancy’s regional managers, up to 17 areas can be developed for public use during the planning period

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 4 areas
Central Coast: 4 areas
North Coast: 4 areas

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,600,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Coastal Access Account
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 2D: Ensure acceptance of 119 offers to dedicate (OTDs) public access easements before they expire, and work with project partners to open these interests to the public.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Investigate opportunities for grantees or other project partners to accept OTDs.
• 2. Where feasible, require acceptance of OTDs as a grant condition.
• 3. Regularly update list of OTDs that are suitable for acceptance by grantees or other project partners.
• 4. Accept all OTDs that are in danger of expiring within 90 days.
• 5. Provide funds and technical assistance to develop facilities to open accepted OTDs for public use.
• 6. Fund operation and maintenance of accessways derived from OTDs.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. All OTDs are accepted by grantee, project partner, or the SCC before they expire.
• 2. OTDs are developed, operated, and maintained.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Add OTD status field to project database.
• 2. Link OTD and project databases.

GOAL 2 ~ OBJECTIVE 2D BASIS

The objective of ensuring acceptance of 119 OTDs is based on analysis of offers with expiration dates in the five-year planning period.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 95 OTDs
Central Coast: 21 OTDs
North Coast: 3 OTDs

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
This involves primarily staff costs. If funds are needed to offset maintenance costs, estimate $100,000.

FUNDING SOURCES

Coastal Access Account
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 2E: Fund 24 projects for new and upgraded facilities, or reconstruction of dilapidated and unsafe facilities to increase and enhance coastal recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Correct dangerous conditions by installing stairs, guardrails, and signs.
• 2. Fund repairs or reconstruction of facilities more than 20 years old or in serious disrepair.
• 3. Build new facilities.
• 4. Assist with facilities that can ease traffic congestion at popular destination points on the coast or inland waterways.
• 5. Incorporate latest scientific understanding of sea-level rise into consideration when planning facilities.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Greater number of recreational facilities.
• 2. Safer conditions at various key locations in the Coastal Zone.
• 3. Marked increases in the structural integrity and expected lifespan of access facilities.
• 4. Less traffic congestion.

GOAL 2 ~ OBJECTIVE 2E BASIS

Based on estimates and analyses in Coastal Access Action Plan (1999) and Completing the California Coastal Trail, and additional analysis from the Conservancy’s regional program managers, 24 projects can be implemented during the planning period.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
North Coast: 6 projects
Central Coast: 10 projects
South Coast: 8 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$11,650,000

FUNDING SOURCES

Proposition 40 and 84
Coastal Access Account
Violation Remediation Account
Whale Tail License Plate

Public Access Goal 3: Revitalize coastal and inland waterfronts.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY Focus on areas where economic development is most needed and has the greatest impact, and where there is the most pressure to convert water-front lands to uses that are not coastal or waterfront-dependent.

Objective 3A: Develop approximately eight waterfront restoration plans that encourage and promote public access to developed waterfront areas, accommodate tourism where necessary, promote excellence and innovation in urban design, protect and restore cultural and historic resources, and support commercial and recreational fishing communities.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Update information on needs/opportunities for waterfront restoration in each region.
• 2. Solicit proposals and award grants for projects displaying design excellence.
• 3. Identify and resolve conflicts between different uses in key waterfront areas.
• 4. In coordination with the Ocean Protection Council, update information regarding specific needs for commercial and recreational fishing support facilities in regional harbors, and inventory opportunities for preserving or enhancing other coast-dependent uses.
• 5. Incorporate latest predictions about sea-level rise in the design and siting of new facilities.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completed plans.

GOAL 3 ~ OBJECTIVE 3A BASIS

Based on estimates and analyses of needs by regional managers, review of Coastal Access Action Plan and discussions with staff of the California Coastal Commission and the Ocean Protection Council, up to eight plans can be completed in the planning period.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 0 plans
Central Coast: 5 plans
North Coast: 3 plans

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,650,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 3B: Implement 13 waterfront restoration projects that encourage and promote public access to developed waterfront areas, support commercial and recreational fishing, promote excellence and innovation in urban design, increase wheelchair accessibility, and protect and restore cultural and historic resources

STRATEGIES

• 1. Restore waterfront facilities and, where possible, leverage funds or seek repayments.
• 2. Protect and restore coastal cultural and historical resources.
• 3. Modernize facilities for the fishing industry at such key locations as Crescent City, Humboldt Bay, Noyo Harbor, San Francisco, Half Moon Bay, Monterey, Morro Bay, Port San Luis, Santa Barbara, and San Diego.
• 4. Provide facilities to accommodate events that increase public use and enjoyment of waterfront areas, including visitor-serving festivals.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Increased visitation, tourism, and economic vitality in waterfront areas in each region.
• 2. Completion of projects displaying design excellence.
• 3. Notable improvements in the sustainability of the commercial fishing industry.

GOAL 3 ~ OBJECTIVE 3B BASIS

Based on estimates and analysis of needs by regional managers, review of Coastal Access Action Plan, and discussions with staff of the California Coastal Commission, up to 13 projects can be completed in the planning period.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION

South Coast: 3 projects
Central Coast: 5 projects
North Coast: 5 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$13,250,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 84
Coastal Access Account

Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 3C: Support the planning, design, or implementation of 15 or more interpretive or educational displays, exhibits, and public events emphasizing coastal, watershed, and ocean-resource education, maritime history, and climate-change impacts.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Fund plans for environmental education centers.
• 2. Fund design and content development of high-quality, site-specific interpretive signage and displays.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completed plans.
• 2. Interpretive signage and educational displays that explain global and local environmental issues.

GOAL 3 ~ OBJECTIVE 3C BASIS

Based on estimates from the Conservancy’s regional managers, 15 environmental education displays, centers, or events can be planned during the next five years.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 5 designs, displays, exhibits, or events
Central Coast: 5 designs, displays, exhibits, or events
North Coast: 5 designs, displays, exhibits, or events

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,750,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 50
Violation Remediation Account
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Objective 3D: Increase education of the public about environmental issues affecting the coast and inland watersheds by constructing or improving 11 regional environmental education centers.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Fund construction or improvement of environmental education centers.
• 2. Fund fabrication of site-specific interpretive signage and displays.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Constructed or improved centers.
• 2. Interpretive signage and educational displays that explain global and local environmental conditions and issues.

GOAL 3 ~ OBJECTIVE 3D BASIS

Based on estimates from the Conservancy’s regional managers, 11 environmental education centers can be built or improved during the next five years.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 3 centers
Central Coast: 5 centers
North Coast: 3 centers

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$6,100,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 50
Violation Remediation Account
Whale Tail License Plate Fund

Coastal Resources Conservation Goal 4: Acquire significant coastal resource properties.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

Protect resource lands that: 1) connect existing public and other protected lands to provide large, contiguous blocks; 2) protect habitat and wildlife corridors; 3) support regional plans (e.g., recovery plans for listed species); and 4) preserve scenic vistas and open space. Coastal Resources Conservation Goal4 Acquire significant coastal resource properties. STATEWIDE STRATEGY Protect resource lands that: 1) connect existing public and other protected lands to provide large, contiguous blocks; 2) protect habitat and wildlife corridors; 3) support regional plans (e.g., recovery plans for listed species); and 4) preserve scenic vistas and open space.

Objective 4A: Protect 25,400 acres of significant coastal and watershed resource properties.

STRATEGIES

• 1. In consultation with government and nonprofit partners, identify priority resource lands, including critical wildlife corridors.
• 2. Support efforts to complete and maintain the protected lands GIS database.
• 3. Regularly meet with national and regional nonprofit organizations, foundations, other local, state, and federal agencies, and real estate brokers to determine appropriate lead agencies for priority acquisitions, and to avoid duplication of effort and ensure awareness of real estate trends and properties likely to be on the market.
• 4. For each potential acquisition, determine whether fee interest or easements are needed.
• 5. Identify appropriate entity to acquire and manage real-property interests.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Acres protected for landscape-level conservation of natural communities, and scenic or recreational resources.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Quantify protection results.

GOAL 4 ~ OBJECTIVE 4A BASIS

The objective of 25,400 acres is based on estimates of regional program managers, in consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Department of Fish and Game, Department of Parks and Recreation, Coastal Commission, and nonprofit organizations.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 2,200 acres
Central Coast: 8,700 acres
North Coast: 14,500 acres

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$91,550,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84
Habitat Conservation Fund
Future bonds

Coastal Resources Conservation Goal 5: Restore and enhance biological diversity in coastal watersheds.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

For identified key regional habitat types, concentrate on restoring systems that are of sufficient size and complexity to help ensure lasting ecological integrity.

Objective 5A: Develop 28 plans for the restoration and enhancement of coastal habitats, including coastal wetlands and intertidal areas, stream corridors, dunes, coastal terraces, coastal sage scrub, redwood forest, oak woodlands, Douglas fir forests, and coastal prairie, and for prevention, eradication, or control of invasive species.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Participate in local and regional strategic planning processes to target most important resources and assess local and regional strategic resource plans.
• 2. Develop partnerships with nonprofit organizations, local, state, and federal public agencies, and promote public outreach.
• 3. Develop local capacity to plan and implement resource-enhancement projects.
• 4. Facilitate resolution of conflicts that impede efforts to conserve coastal resources.
• 5. Complete planning phases that will lead toward project implementation, including resource enhancement plans, conceptual plan, detailed designs, environmental documentation, and permitting.
• 6. Fund research of invasive-species prevention strategies and develop prevention programs.
• 7. Incorporate predicted evolutions in habitat due to climate change when planning restoration and enhancement.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Plans completed that incorporate predicted habitat evolutions from climate change.
• 2. Invasive-species prevention programs developed.

GOAL 5 ~ OBJECTIVE 5A BASIS

Estimates of the numbers of plans are based on information from regional program managers, in consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Coastal Commission, Department of Fish and Game, and nonprofit organizations.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 9 plans
Central Coast: 11 plans
North Coast: 8 plans

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$8,600,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84
Habitat Conservation Fund

Objective 5B: Restore and enhance 6,820 acres of coastal habitats including coastal wetlands and intertidal areas, stream corridors, dunes, coastal sage scrub, coastal terraces, redwood forest, oak woodlands, Douglas fir forests and coastal prairie.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Implement priority projects.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Acres restored or enhanced.

GOAL 5 ~ OBJECTIVE 5B BASIS

Estimates of the numbers of acres based on information from regional program managers, in consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Coastal Commission, Department of Fish and Game, and nonprofit organizations.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 1,300 restored acres
Central Coast: 4,020 restored acres
North Coast: 1,500 restored acres

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$41,875,000

FUNDING SOURCES

Propositions 40, 50, and 84
Habitat Conservation Fund

Objective 5C: Implement approximately 25 projects to preserve and restore wildlife corridors both between core habitat areas along the coast and from coastal to inland habitat areas.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify core coastal habitat areas.
• 2. Prioritize and implement projects to preserve or create links between core habitat areas.
• 3. Implement restoration projects within the habitat corridor.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Permanent protection or restoration of important habitat corridors affecting significant populations of various species.

GOAL 5 ~ OBJECTIVE 5C BASIS

Preservation and restoration of 25 habitat corridors is based on estimates from regional program managers in consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Coastal Commission, and nonprofit organizations, including the Missing Linkages Project.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 4 projects
Central Coast: 11 projects
North Coast: 8 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$20,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84
Habitat Conservation Fund

Objective 5D: Implement 16 projects that target prevention, control or eradication of non-native invasive species that threaten important coastal habitats.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Coordinate with local partners to identify and develop strategic projects that are likely to be successful over the long term, including comprehensive, watershed-based approaches and rapid-response efforts.
• 2. Support public education to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Invasive species controlled or eradicated within targeted projects areas.
• 2. Education materials developed and distributed.

GOAL 5 ~ OBJECTIVE 5D BASIS

Sixteen projects to eradicate non-native species are based on estimates from regional managers in consultation with the Department of Fish and Game, Wildlife Conservation Board, California Biodiversity Council, and nonprofit organizations including the California Invasive Plant Council. Many projects involve removal of Arundo donax on various river corridors and removal of terrestrial species, such as pampas grass.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 3 projects
Central Coast: 8 projects
North Coast: 5 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$6,100,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 84
Tax check-off

Objective 5E: Implement two projects to support the recovery of the southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) population.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Support research that will increase understanding of factors that contribute to sea otter mortality, including sources and transport mechanisms of biotoxins, pollutants, and disease agents, and that will clarify relationships between direct and indirect causes of death.
• 2. Support study of live sea otters, including monitoring their distribution and abundance, and research to increase understanding of their functional biology and development and application of improved instrumentation and tagging methods.
• 3. Support continuation of programs to salvage and study fresh otter carcasses.
• 4. Support projects designed to restore or enhance sea otter habitat.
• 5. Implement management actions, including education and outreach, that promise to help the sea otter population to recover.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Number of research/study projects.
• 2. Number of management measures, including education and outreach efforts.
• 3. Increase in otter population.
• 4. Delisting of the southern sea otter as a federally threatened species.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Track federal listing status.

FUNDING SOURCES

Proposition 84 Tax check-off

Coastal Resources Conservation Goal 6: Improve water quality, habitat, and other coastal resources within coastal watersheds and the ocean.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

Develop and implement projects to protect and restore riparian, coastal, and marine ecosystems, including projects to improve water quality, protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat, implement endangered species recovery plans, and restore coastal wetlands, floodplains, and watershed lands.

Objective 6A: Develop 21 plans to preserve and restore coastal watersheds and create river parkways.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Participate in state watershed coordination processes.
• 2. Participate in local watershed planning groups.
• 3. Promote public outreach and community involvement.
• 4. Fund the development of watershed and river parkway plans.
• 5. Incorporate predicted alterations in stream flows when developing plans.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Plans are developed for high priority watersheds and river parkway projects.

GOAL 6 ~ OBJECTIVE 6A BASIS

Consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Coastal Commission, Department of Fish and Game, Department of Parks and Recreation, and nonprofit organizations.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 6 plans
Central Coast: 9 plans
North Coast: 6 plans

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$7,150,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84

Habitat Conservation Fund

Objective 6B: Implement 49 projects to preserve and restore coastal watersheds and create river parkways.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Fund the implementation of projects to preserve and restore coastal watersheds and create river parkways.
• 2. Promote public outreach and community involvement.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completed projects.

GOAL 6 ~ OBJECTIVE 6B BASIS

Consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Coastal Commission, Department of Fish and Game, Department of Parks and Recreation, and nonprofit organizations.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 7 projects
Central Coast: 12 projects
North Coast: 30 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$15,250,000

FUNDING SOURCES

Propositions 40, 50, and 84
Habitat Conservation Fund

Objective 6C: Develop 112 plans to remove barriers to fish passage and ensure sufficient instream flow to support fish habitat.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Prioritize barriers for removal based on existing statewide and regional assessments, and conduct additional assessments as needed.
• 2. Fund the development of plans, designs, permits, and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance documents required for the removal of fish barriers.
• 3. Plans for designs of barrier removal will incorporate predicted stream-flow alterations information.
• 4. Identify opportunities for securing adequate instream flows in key coastal watersheds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Priorities identified.
• 2. Plans completed.

GOAL 6 ~ OBJECTIVE 6C BASIS

Consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Coastal Commission, Department of Fish and Game, NOAA Fisheries, Department of Parks and Recreation, and nonprofit organizations.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 2 plans
Central Coast: 10 plans
North Coast: 100 plans

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$8,750,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84
Habitat Conservation Fund

Objective 6D: Implement fish barrier removal projects to open or improve 99 miles of habitat.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Remove or modify culverts and stream crossings.
• 2. Construct fishways that restore access.
• 3. Modify diversions to ensure adequate instream flow.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. River miles opened to fish.
• 2. Projects completed.
• 3. Presence of fish in previously inaccessible habitat.
• 4. Measurable improvement in instream flow levels.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Measure spawning returns.
• 2. Periodic measurement of instream flows.

GOAL 6 ~ OBJECTIVE 6D BASIS

Consultation with the Wildlife Conservation Board, Coastal Commission, Department of Fish and Game, NOAA Fisheries, Department of Parks and Recreation, and nonprofit organizations.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 18 miles
Central Coast: 51 miles
North Coast: 30 miles

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$38,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84

Habitat Conservation Fund

Objective 6E: Complete approximately 19 plans to improve water quality to benefit coastal ocean resources.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Plan wetland and riparian projects that improve water quality, where appropriate.
• 2. Develop plans for projects that reduce impacts of urban runoff to coastal watersheds, beaches, and the ocean.
• 3. Identify pollution hotspots affecting restoration of coastal ocean resources.
• 4. Disseminate information and provide funding to address pollution cleanup and prevention, using best-management practices.
• 5. Work with marine laboratories and other departments to track ocean pollutants.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Plans completed.
• 2. A system created to track and monitor ocean pollution.

GOAL 6 ~ OBJECTIVE 6E BASIS

The estimate of 19 plans is based on discussions with the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Project, Coastal Commission, resource conservation districts, and regional water quality control boards.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 8 plans
Central Coast: 9 plans
North Coast: 2 plans

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,900,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84

Objective 6F: Implement 16 projects to improve water quality to benefit coastal resources.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Implement wetland and riparian projects that improve water quality.
• 2. Implement projects that reduce impacts of runoff to coastal watersheds, beaches, and the ocean.
• 3. Promote agricultural practices that reduce erosion, sedimentation, and pollution.
• 4. Provide funding for projects that address pollution cleanup and prevention, using best-management practices.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Measurable water quality improvements in project areas.
• 2. Fewer beach closings and marked improvement in waterfront environments.
• 3. Reduction in agricultural and septic-system pollution.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Long-term water quality monitoring by nonprofit organizations, local governments, and regional water quality control boards.

GOAL 6 ~ OBJECTIVE 6F BASIS

Based on discussion with staff of the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Project, California Coastal Commission, and regional water quality control boards

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 5 projects
Central Coast: 9 projects

North Coast: 2 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$7,750,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84

Objective 6G: Assist in the development of seven projects that constitute regional approaches to the management of shoreline erosion and sediment management.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue to assist in the completion and implementation of the California Sediment Management Master Plan.
• 2. Assist in the planning and implementation of projects to remove barriers to sediment transport in rivers and streams.
• 3. Explore opportunities for beneficial reuse of sediment.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Measurable increase in natural sediment to a littoral cell.
• 2. Significant increase in sand retention on selected beaches..
• 3. Estimated historical sediment flow reestablished on a river or stream.
• 4. Prevention of erosion.

GOAL 6 ~ OBJECTIVE 6G BASIS

Based on discussions with the Coastal Sediment Management Work Group, sponsored by the Resources Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Projects may be integrated into other ongoing efforts, including removal of dams and experimental placements of sediments into nearshore environments from coastal wetland restoration projects. Projects may also involve additional studies of the nearshore environment and pollution monitoring critical to determining the impacts of beach nourishment projects.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 4 projects
Central Coast: 2 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$3,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES

Propositions 40 and 50

Coastal Resources Conservation Goal 7: Preservation of working landscapes.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

The top priorities for protection are working lands, including croplands, grazing lands, and working forests within the urban fringe, and/or where there are continuing resource protection/agricultural produc-tion conflicts, or threats of subdivision and conversion to other uses.

Objective 7A: Acquire approximately 74,070 acres of working-lands conservation easements or fee interests over strategic properties in key coastal watersheds.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Update/refine identification of strategic agricultural preservation areas and status of agricultural economies in each coastal county.
• 2. Update/refine identification of strategic timberland areas and status of timber economy in northern coastal counties.
• 3. Update/refine identification of priority properties in each county.
• 4. Determine landowner interest and local support.
• 5. Provide funding for the acquisition of working landscapes.
• 6. Identify and/or develop new tools (i.e. flood easements) to resolve flooding impacts on agricultural and other lands while enhancing coastal resource habitat.
• 7. Coordinate with the California Department of Conservation and Wildlife Conservation Board to integrate farmland and timberland preservation and habitat protection.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Permanent protection of agricultural productivity and scenic and habitat values associated with priority coastal farmland.
• 2. Permanent protection of working forests and natural resource values associated with priority forestland.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Obtain data sufficient to identify projected development that threatens conversion of agricultural lands.
• 2. Track the number of acres of protected land in the database.
• 3. Compare protected total/annual acreage to conversion rate in each area if information is readily available.

GOAL 7 ~ OBJECTIVE 7A BASIS

The goal of 74,070 acres is based on analysis by regional managers of the most critical remaining working lands in each region. Lands to be protected are on the urban/rural boundaries of coastal towns or are otherwise under threat of development or conversion..

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 200 acres
Central Coast: 3,870 acres
North Coast: 70,000 acres

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$44,000,000

(Most of these lands would be acquired as “significant properties” under Goal 4.)

FUNDING SOURCE
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 7B: Provide funding for 38 plans for projects that foster the long-term viability of coastal working lands, including projects to assist farmers, ranchers, and timber producers to reduce impacts of their operations on wildlife habitat and water quality.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Investigate and identify significant natural resource areas and waterways that are adversely impacted by operations of working lands.
• 2. Consult with agencies and nonprofit organizations to identify where planning is needed for restoration or protection of lands, and where there are landowners interested in improving their land use practices.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completion of plans that when implemented will reduce or eliminate impacts of working-land practices.

GOAL 7 ~ OBJECTIVE 7B BASIS

The goal of 38 plans is based on analysis by regional managers of key needs in each region in consultation with local farm bureaus, Natural Resource Conservation Service, resource conservation districts, California Department of Forestry, Department of Conservation, nonprofit organizations, and farm economists.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 1 plan
Central Coast: 7 plans
North Coast: 30 plans

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,850,000

Objective 7C: Implement approximately 60 projects that foster the long-term viability of coastal working lands, including projects to assist farmers, ranchers, and timber producers to reduce impacts of their operations on wildlife habitat and water quality.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Fund facilities that increase producers’ access to markets.
• 2. Fund demonstrations of water efficiency, implementation of best-management practices, and other conservation measures.
• 3. Help resolve conflicts between agricultural productivity and wildlife resources and habitat.
• 4. Participate in discussions regarding food safety and developing regulations.
• 5. Develop permit coordination, green certification, and fish-friendly programs through resource conservation districts and nonprofit organizations.
• 6. Acquire buffer strips along sensitive habitat and watercourses.
• 7. Provide assistance to farmers through resource conservation districts and nonprofit organizations to reduce erosion and encroachments into streams.
• 8. Coordinate with regional water quality control boards to help land managers comply with changing regulations (e.g. elimination of farm-waiver programs).

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Strengthening of, or progress toward, stabilization of local and regional working-land economies.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Monitor legislation and regulations affecting coastal agriculture and timberland.

GOAL 7 ~ OBJECTIVE 7C BASIS

The goal of 60 projects is based on analyses of key needs in each region by regional managers in consultation with local farm bureaus, the Natural Resource Conservation Service, resource conservation districts, California Department of Forestry, Department of Conservation, nonprofit organizations, and farm economists.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 1 projects
Central Coast: 9 projects

North Coast: 50 projects

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$6,750,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Special Deposit Accounts (Carlsbad funds)

Coastal Resources Conservation Goal 8: Provide nonregulatory alternatives to reduce conflicts among competing uses in the Coastal Zone.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

Assist the Coastal Commission, San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, and local jurisdictions in resolving the most difficult land-use conflicts.

Objective 8A: Resolve 6 land-use conflicts stemming from local coastal programs, work toward elimination of “white holes” (areas where there is no certified local coastal program), and participate in habitat-conservation planning.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Coordinate closely with staff of the Coastal Commission, San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, and local governments to update and refine baseline information pertaining to problem areas.
• 2. Communicate with local land-use authorities and others regarding land-use conflicts.
• 3. Develop plans with local decisionmakers to implement lot consolidations, transfer of development programs, partial acquisitions, or other methods for addressing these issues where appropriate.
• 4. Work with wildlife agencies to assist in developing and implementing natural communities conservation plans.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Focus on the resolution of at least 6 land-use conflicts of the highest priority through acquisition of property interests, redesign of subdivisions, transfer development credit programs, or partial development.

GOAL 8 ~ OBJECTIVE A BASIS

The goal of resolving six land-use conflicts is based on discussions with staff of the Coastal Commission, San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), and local jurisdictions. This goal overlays other goals. Other goals and objectives will be met to the extent feasible in a manner that resolves various land-use issues within the Coastal Zone and BCDC zones.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
South Coast: 2 resolutions
Central Coast: 3 resolutions
North Coast: 1 resolutions

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program Goal 9: Maintain and update lists of long-term resource and recreational goals for the San Francisco Bay Area.

REGIONAL STRATEGY

Ensure efficiency and coordination among agencies and organizations in developing project priorities and an effective database.

Objective 9A: Maintain and update lists of high-priority areas for the Bay Area Program, including projects that protect and restore natural habitats and other open-space lands of regional significance, and those that improve public access to and around the bay, connecting the ridges, coast, and urban open spaces.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Contact all major partner organizations every two years to obtain information on their recent accomplishments and current priorities.
• 2. Complete GIS database of existing projects.
• 3. Work with partners to identify areas that are underserved by trails, parks, and open space.
• 4. Support the ability of environmental justice organizations, watershed groups, nongovernmental organizations, and local agencies to adequately develop projects and concepts for consideration as regional priorities.
• 5. Support assessments and regional planning that help to quantify needs and establish priorities for conservation, restoration, and recreation.
• 6. Complete the Upland Habitat Goals, Subtidal Goals, and Green Vision projects to identify priority restoration and protection projects.
• 7. Participate in the Bay Area Open Space Council, the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture, and other regional organizations to determine priority conservation and restoration areas.
• 8. Work with the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, the San Francisco Bay Trail Project, and San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail Project partners to identify priorities for completion of regional trails.
• 9. Develop priorities for agricultural conservation with the California Department of Conservation, resource conservation districts,nonprofit organizations that protect agricultural lands, and local agencies.
• 10. With local stakeholders and jurisdictions, the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board, Integrated Regional Water Management Program, and others, designate priority areas for watershed and stream restoration that will serve multiple water resource management objectives.
• 11. Maximize effectiveness in implementing Bay Area Program goals on the coast side of Bay counties.
• 12. Support assessments that evaluate the effectiveness of Conservancy-funded projects in meeting the Strategic Plan’s goals.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. A biannual set of identified Bay Area Program priority areas and projects.
• 2. Completed and maintained GIS database, including digital layers of completed and in-progress projects.

GOAL 9 ~ OBJECTIVE 9A BASIS

Section 31163(a) requires the Conservancy to cooperate with public and nongovernmental organizations to identify and use long-term resource and outdoor recreational goals to guide the ongoing activities for the San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program. The Conservancy will do this by reviewing updated regional and general plans and consulting with staff of agencies, districts, and nongovernmental organizations about updated priorities.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,500,000

San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program Goal 10: Protect, restore, and enhance natural habitats and connecting corridors, watersheds, scenic areas, and other open-space resources of regional importance.

REGIONAL STRATEGY

Protect and restore lands of sufficient size or scope, or that are components of landscape efforts, in order to help ensure lasting ecological integrity for key regional habitat types; protect and restore lands that play critical roles in watershed functions and processes; and protect lands that provide important view sheds and critical wildlife corridors.

Objective 10A: Protect approximately 3,000 acres of wetland habitat throughout the nine Bay Area counties. For purposes of this objective, wetlands include tidal, managed, riparian, riverine, and subtidal habitats.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Work with public agencies or nonprofit organizations able and willing to protect, acquire, and manage wetland properties.
• 2. Identify willing sellers of fee titles or easements, as appropriate, on wetland properties identified as priorities for acquisition.
• 3. Negotiate and complete acquisition of these properties.
• 4. Seek matching funds for wetland acquisition projects and support the work of the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture to obtain additional funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. The numerical goal for protection of acres is met on time and is accomplished in a cooperative manner with other agencies and organizations.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10A BASIS

Needs and goals for wetland protection are generally derived from the Baylands Ecosystem Habitat Goals report, the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture’s Implementation Strategy, and the preliminary work to develop a Subtidal Goals document. Priorities are further refined through consultations with staff from agencies and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$5,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84
Proposition 50 grant funds from Wildlife Conservation Board

Objective 10B: Develop plans for restoration or enhancement projects covering approximately 3,500 acres of wetlands. For purposes of this objective, wetlands include tidal, managed, seasonal, riparian, and subtidal habitats.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify governmental and nongovernmental partners to assist in planning and plan review for identified priority wetland areas in need of restoration or enhancement.
• 2. Initiate and participate in planning efforts for these identified areas collaboratively with partners.
• 3. Conduct outreach and involve interested parties in restoration or enhancement planning.
• 4. Apply for and assist partner organizations in obtaining matching funds. 5. Incorporate scientific knowledge about impacts from global climate change in plan designs.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completion of restoration or enhancement studies, plans, and environmental documents needed to implement projects.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10B BASIS

Restoration/enhancement plans for 3,500 acres of wetlands is derived from the five-year proportion of the 20year goals identified in the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture’s Implementation Strategy, and the preliminary work to develop a Subtidal Goals document. Priorities further refined through consultations with staff from agencies and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST

$5,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84
Proposition 50 grant funds from Wildlife Conservation Board

Objective 10C: Restore or enhance approximately 10,000 acres of wetland habitat throughout the nine Bay Area counties. For purposes of this objective, wetlands include tidal, managed, seasonal, and subtidal habitats.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify governmental and nonprofit partners to assist in implementing wetland restoration or enhancement plans.
• 2. Seek matching funds for wetland restoration or enhancement projects, and support the work of the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture to obtain additional funds.
• 3. Support funding for monitoring that evaluates the effectiveness of Conservancy-funded restoration or enhancement projects in meeting their goals.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Implementation of restoration or enhancement plans meeting the acreage goal.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Review project monitoring to assess the effectiveness of Conservancy-funded projects.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10C BASIS

Protect approximately 20,000 acres of uplands wildlife habitat, connecting corridors, scenic areas, and other open-space resources of regional significance throughout the nine Bay Area counties.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$20,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84
Proposition 50 grant funds from Wildlife Conservation Board

Objective 10D: Protect approximately 20,000 acres of uplands wildlife habitat, connecting corridors, scenic areas, and other open-space resources of regional significance throughout the nine Bay Area counties.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Work with public agencies and nonprofit organizations able and willing to acquire and manage upland properties.
• 2. Identify willing sellers of fee title or easements, as appropriate, on upland properties identified as priorities for acquisition.
• 3. Negotiate and complete acquisition of these properties.
• 4. Seek matching funds for acquisition projects and support the work of the Bay Area Open Space Council to obtain additional funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. The numerical goal for acquisition is met on time and is accomplished in a cooperative manner with other agencies and organizations.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10D BASIS

Needs and goals for upland acquisition were generally derived from the draft results of the Upland Goals and Green Vision projects of the Bay Area Open Space Council. Priorities were further refined through consultations with staff from agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST

$33,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84

Objective 10E: Develop plans for restoration or enhancement projects covering approximately 5,000 acres of uplands habitat.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify governmental and nonprofit organization partners to assist in planning and plan review for identified priority upland areas in need of restoration or enhancement.
• 2. Initiate and participate in planning efforts for these identified areas collaboratively with partners.
• 3. Conduct outreach and involve interested parties in restoration or enhancement planning.
• 4. Apply for and assist partner organizations in obtaining matching funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completion of restoration or enhancement studies, plans, and environmental documents needed to implement projects that meet the acreage goal.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10E BASIS

Restoration/enhancement plans for 5,000 acres of uplands are generally derived from the draft results of the Upland Goals and Green Vision projects of the Bay Area Open Space Council. Priorities were further refined through consultations with staff from agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84

Objective 10F: Restore or enhance approximately 5,000 acres of uplands habitat throughout the nine Bay Area counties.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify governmental and nonprofit organization partners to assist in implementing upland restoration or enhancement plans.
• 2. Seek matching funds for uplands restoration or enhancement projects and support the work of the Bay Area Open Space Council to obtain additional funds.
• 3. Support monitoring that evaluates the effectiveness of Conservancy-funded restoration or enhancement projects in meeting their goals.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Implementation of restoration or enhancement plans that meet the acreage goal.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10F BASIS

Implementation of 5,000 acres of uplands restoration or enhancement is generally derived from the draft results of the Upland Goals and Green Vision projects of the Bay Area Open Space Council. Priorities were further refined through consultations with staff from agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$4,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84

Objective 10G: Develop plans for restoration or enhancement projects covering at least 15 linear miles of riparian or riverine habitat.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify governmental and nonprofit organization partners to assist in planning and plan review for identified priority riparian and riverine areas in need of restoration or enhancement.
• 2. Initiate and participate in planning efforts for these identified areas collaboratively with partners.
• 3. Conduct outreach and involve interested parties in restoration or enhancement planning.
• 4. Apply for and assist partner organizations in obtaining matching funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completion of restoration or enhancement studies, plans, and environmental documents needed for implementing projects that meet the mileage goal.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10G BASIS

Restoration/enhancement plans for 15 linear miles of riparian or riverine habitat is generally derived from the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture’s Implementation Strategy. Priorities were further refined through consultations with staff from agencies and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84

Objective 10H: Restore or enhance approximately 10 linear miles of riparian or riverine habitat throughout the nine Bay Area counties.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify governmental and nonprofit partners to assist in implementation of riparian or riverine habitat restoration or enhancement plans.
• 2. Seek matching funds for riparian or riverine habitat restoration or enhancement projects and support the work of the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture to obtain additional funds.
• 3. Support monitoring that evaluates the effectiveness of Conservancy-funded restoration or enhancement projects in meeting their goals.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Implementation of restoration or enhancement plans that meet the linear mileage goal.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10H BASIS

The goal of implementing 10 linear miles of riparian or riverine habitat restoration or enhancement is generally derived from the San Francisco Bay Joint Venture’s Implementation Strategy. Priorities were further refined through consultations with staff from agencies and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84

Objective 10I: Plan 5 projects that protect, restore, or enhance watershed functions and processes for the benefit of wildlife or water quality.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Identify governmental and nonprofit organization partners to assist in planning and plan review for identified priority watersheds in need of restoration or enhancement.
• 2. Initiate and participate in planning efforts for these identified areas collaboratively with partners.
• 3. Conduct outreach and involve interested parties in restoration or enhancement planning.
• 4. Seek matching funds for watershed restoration or enhancement planning efforts and support the work of the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan’s Watershed Functional Area Group to obtain additional funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completion of watershed restoration or enhancement studies, plans, and environmental documents needed for project implementation.
• 2. Measure improvements in water quality and wildlife populations.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10I BASIS

The number of watershed restoration/enhancement plans is generally derived from the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan’s Watershed Functional Area Document. Priorities were further refined through consultations with agencies’ staff and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 10J: Develop 5 plans or studies to prevent, control, or eradicate non-native invasive species that threaten important habitats in the San Francisco Bay Area.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Coordinate with local partners to identify and develop strategic projects that are likely to be successful over the long term, including comprehensive, watershed-based approaches and rapid-response efforts.
• 2. Support research into prevention methodologies, efficacy of control or eradication treatments, and development of alternative control or eradication treatment methodologies.
• 3. Seek matching funds for invasive species prevention, studies, planning, control, and eradication.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completion of invasive species control plans and studies that meet the numerical goal.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10J BASIS

The number of projects is generally derived from the Draft California State Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, lessons learned from past and current Conservancy invasive-species-control projects, and consultations with invasive-species experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST

$1,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84
Proposition 50 grant funds from Wildlife Conservation Board

Objective 10K: Implement 5 projects or programs to prevent, control, or eradicate non-native invasive species that threaten important habitats in the San Francisco Bay Area.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Coordinate with local partners to identify and develop strategic projects that are likely to be successful over the long term, including comprehensive, watershed-based approaches and rapid-response efforts.
• 2. Support prevention programs, including public education, to prevent new introductions of invasive species or the spread of existing infestations.
• 3. Seek matching funds for invasive species prevention, studies, planning, control, and eradication.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Implementation of invasive species projects and programs that meet the numerical goal.

GOAL 10 ~ OBJECTIVE 10K BASIS

The number of projects is derived from the Draft California State Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, lessons learned from past and current Conservancy invasive-species-control projects, and consultations with invasive-species experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$7,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Proposition 50 grant funds from Wildlife Conservation Board

San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program Goal 11: Improve public access, recreation, and educational facilities and programs in and around San Francisco Bay, along the coast, the ridgelines, in urban open spaces, and natural areas.

REGIONAL STRATEGY

Ensure completion of major segments of the San Francisco Bay, Ridge, and Water Trail systems, and connectors among other significant regional trails, acquire publicly accessible open-space lands, ensure completion of recreational facilities of regional significance, implement projects, and provide educational projects and programs that engage people in hands-on restoration or trail-building activities.

Objective 11A: Develop approximately 25 plans that provide recreational facilities such as picnic and staging areas, docks and piers, campgrounds, parking lots, interpretive signs, and interpretive or educational centers.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Plan recreation and public-access improvements within projects that also protect and restore habitat, when it can be done without having adverse impacts on environmentally sensitive areas and wildlife.
• 2. Plan recreation and public-access improvements on newly acquired public lands, minimizing negative impacts to wildlife and habitat.
• 3. Continuously accept and rank new applications for funding public access and related facilities.
• 4. Solicit proposals and conduct outreach to partner organizations to develop regionally significant recreational projects.
• 5. Working with partner organizations, develop plans and designs for new programs and facilities.
• 6. Work with partner organization to obtain matching funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Plans for at least 25 new or expanded facilities or programs by the target date.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11A BASIS

The number of plans listed, 25, is based on consultations with staff of parks agencies and districts, and on estimates of matching funds available from project proponents. Plans include county general plans, East Shore State Park General Plan, City of San Jose’s Greenprint for Parks and Facilities, East Bay Regional Park District’s Master Plan, the Golden Gate National Parks Association’s Long-Range Plan, BCDC’s San Francisco Bay Plan, the Strategic Plan for the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation System, Marin County Open Space District’s Strategic Plan, and Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District’s Connecting Communities and the Land: A Long-Range Acquisition Plan.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84

Objective 11B: Implement approximately 20 projects that provide recreational facilities such as picnic and staging areas, docks and piers, campgrounds, parking lots, interpretive signs, and interpretive or educational centers.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Implement recreation and public-access improvements within projects that also protect and restore habitat, when it can be done without having adverse impacts on environmentally sensitive areas and wildlife.
• 2. Construct recreation and public-access improvements on newly acquired public lands.
• 3. Continuously accept and rank new applications for funding public access and related facilities.
• 4. Solicit proposals and conduct outreach to partner organizations to develop regionally significant recreational projects.
• 5. Work with partner organization to obtain matching funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Construction of at least 20 new or expanded facilities or programs by the target date.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11B BASIS

The number of projects to be implemented, 20, is based on consultations with staff of parks agencies and districts, on plans listed below, and on estimates of matching funds available from project proponents. Plans include county general plans, East Shore State Park General Plan, City of San Jose’s Greenprint for Parks and Facilities, East Bay Regional Park District’s Master Plan, Golden Gate National Parks Association’s Long-Range Plan, and the San Francisco Bay Plan.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$5,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84

Objective 11C: Complete 20 projects that increase the amount of land accessible to the public or provide corridors for trails.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Work with public agencies and nonprofit organizations able and willing to acquire, open and manage properties for public recreation.
• 2. Identify willing sellers of fee title or public-access easements, as appropriate, on properties identified as priorities for acquisition.
• 3. Negotiate and complete acquisition of these properties.
• 4. Seek matching funds for acquisition projects and support the work of the Bay Area Open Space Council to obtain additional funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. The numerical goal for projects that increase accessibility is met on time and is accomplished in a cooperative manner with other agencies and organizations.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11C BASIS

The number of projects that increase the amount of land accessible to the public is generally derived from the draft results of the Green Vision Project of the Bay Area Open Space Council. Priorities were further refined through consultations with staff from agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other experts.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$15,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 11D: Develop plans for approximately 15 miles of the San Francisco Bay Trail.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in trail planning with the Bay Trail Project of the Association of Bay Area Governments.
• 2. Using the gap analysis developed for the Bay Trail and working with local partners, identify priority areas for additional trail links, and initiate trail planning.
• 3. Work with partner organizations and the Bay Trail Project to obtain matching funds.
• 4. Consider available science regarding sea-level rise in siting and designs for Bay Trail infrastructure.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for planning Bay Trail miles are met on time.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11D BASIS

The goal of developing plans for 15 miles of Bay Trail is based on the San Francisco Bay Trail Plan and the gap analysis completed in 2005 and updated in 2007. The analysis involved a GIS-based mapping system to identify the trail gaps and detailed cost estimates for the specific improvements likely to be needed. Bay Trail staff worked closely with local government partners to identify trail gaps.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 11E: Construct approximately 30 miles of the San Francisco Bay Trail.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in trail construction with the Bay Trail Project of the Association of Bay Area Governments.
• 2. Using the gap analysis developed for the Bay Trail, and working with local partners, construct priority trail links.
• 3. Work with partner organizations to obtain matching funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for constructing Bay Trail miles are met on time.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11D BASIS

Completion of 30 miles of Bay Trail is based on the San Francisco Bay Trail Plan and the gap analysis completed in 2005 and updated in 2007. The analysis involved a GIS-based mapping system to identify the trail gaps and detailed cost estimates for the specific improvements likely to be needed. Bay Trail staff worked closely with local government partners to identify trail gaps.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$6,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Proposition 84

Objective 11F: Plan approximately 50 miles of the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in trail planning with the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council.
• 2. Using data developed by the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, and working with local partners, identify priority areas for additional trail links, and initiate trail planning.
• 3. Work with partner organizations to obtain matching funds.
• 4. Work with partner organizations to identify organizations to manage land and public use.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for planning Ridge Trail miles are met on time.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11D BASIS

The goal of developing plans for 50 miles of Ridge Trail is based on consultations with the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council staff and the draft document 400 Miles and Beyond: Completing the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$3,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 11G: Construct approximately 30 miles of the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in trail construction with the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council.
• 2. Using data developed by the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, and working with local partners, construct priority trail segments.
• 3. Work with partner organizations to obtain matching funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for constructing Ridge Trail miles are met on time.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11G BASIS

The goal of completing plans for 30 miles of Ridge Trail is based on consultations with the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council staff and the draft document 400 Miles and Beyond: Completing the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 11H: Develop five plans for regionally significant public access trails and community connectors, including links between the Bay Trail, Ridge Trail, and Coastal Trail, and links between regional trails and urban communities.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance to and collaboration with the Bay Trail Project and the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council in trail planning.
• 2. Working with partner agencies and organizations, continue assistance and collaboration in planning significant connector trails that provide important links.
• 3. Using the data developed by partner organizations, as available, and working with local partners, identify priority areas for additional trail links, and initiate trail planning.
• 4. Work with partner organizations to obtain matching funds.
• 5. Work with partner organizations to identify organizations to manage land and public use.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for planning trail miles are met on time.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11H BASIS

The goal of five plans for regionally significant trails is based on projected population growth, needs identified by partner organizations, and needs identified in county and special-district plans.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84

Objective 11I: Construct approximately 50 miles of regionally significant public trails and community connectors, including links between the Bay Trail, Ridge Trail, and Coastal Trail, and links between regional trails and urban communities.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in trail construction with the Bay Trail Project and the Ridge Trail Council.
• 2. Working with partner agencies and organizations, continue assistance and collaboration in constructing significant connector trails that provide important links.
• 3. Work with partner organizations to obtain matching funds.
• 4. Work with partner organizations to identify organizations to manage land and public use.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for constructing trail miles are met on time.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11I BASIS

Construction of 50 miles of regionally significant trails is based on projected population growth, needs identified by partner organizations, and needs identified in county and special-district plans.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 11 J

Plan approximately 10 launch sites for the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in trail planning with the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), Bay Trail Project, California Department of Boating and Waterways, Bay Access, and other partners.
• 2. Using the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail Plan, which will be finalized in early 2008, identify priority areas for building or improving launch sites, and initiate detailed planning, including the selection of sites that meet trailhead-designation criteria.
• 3. Work with partner organizations to obtain matching funds.
• 4. Work with partner organizations to identify organizations to manage public use of the sites.
• 5. Work with partners to conduct outreach to Water Trail users on safety, navigation, and wildlife issues.
• 6. Take scientific knowledge of sea-level rise into consideration in siting and designs for Water Trail infrastructure.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for planning of launch sites are met on time.
• 2. Increase of usage of the Bay by nonmotorized boats, based on estimates of current use.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11 J BASIS

The goal of planning for 10 Water Trail launch sites is based on the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail Plan, which will be finalized in early 2008.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 11K: Construct or enhance approximately 35 launch sites for the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in trail planning with BCDC, Bay Trail Project, California Department of Boating and Waterways, Bay Access, San Francisco Bay Joint Venture, and other partners.
• 2. Using the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail Plan, which will be finalized in early 2008, identify priority areas for building or improving launch sites, and initiate construction.
• 3. Develop a logo for Water Trail informational media (such as website, newsletter, brochures, signs), and a template for Water Trail sign design, construction, and implementation.
• 4. Install Water Trail signs to identify designated Water Trail sites clearly, promote Water Trail education and stewardship, and increase public awareness of the Water Trail program.
• 5. Work with partner organizations to obtain matching funds.
• 6. Work with partner organizations to identify organizations to manage public use.
• 7. Work with partners to conduct outreach to Water Trail users on safety, navigation, and wildlife issues.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Numerical goals for construction of launch sites are met on time.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11K BASIS

The goal of constructing and enhancing 35 Water Trail launch sites is based on the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail Plan, which will be finalized in early 2008.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$3,100,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 12, 40, and 84

Objective 11L: Include wheelchair-accessible or other ADA-compliant elements in approximately 25 Conservancy-funded projects.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Working with local partners, staff will review all proposals for planning or implementation of recreational features to identify opportunities to include wheelchair-accessible elements or other ADA-compliant elements.
• 2. Staff may request that partners modify proposals to include improved access and other ADA-compliant elements when appropriate and feasible.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. At least 25 projects implemented with Conservancy funding will include ADA-compliant elements.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11L BASIS

The goal of developing 25 ADA-compliant public access and recreational facility projects is based on discussions with staff of the Bay Trail Project, Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, cities, counties, and special districts regarding opportunities and plans for such projects.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40, 50, and 84

Objective 11M: Implement approximately 25 projects that create, expand, or improve educational or interpretive programs that are tied to on-the-ground restoration projects or trail construction or enhancement and are available to the urban population of the Bay Area.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Continue assistance and collaboration in planning and implementation of these projects with local partners.
• 2. Conduct at least two mini-grant rounds to solicit proposals from partners for projects in this category.
• 3. Work with the Bay Area Open Space Council, San Francisco Bay Joint Venture, and others to identify successful programs that are currently operating in the region, and encourage partners to use these programs as models in other areas.
• 4. Seek to combine educational programs with other recreational or access projects that the Bay Program is conducting in urban areas.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Twenty-five projects are completed within the five-year target period.

GOAL 11 ~ OBJECTIVE 11M BASIS

The objective is derived from discussions with local partners regarding the need and capacity for environmental education in the San Francisco Bay Area. These projects are a high priority for the Bay Program because they involve on-the-ground restoration in urban areas where restoration projects can be difficult to rank as high-priority based on resource benefits alone.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$3,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

San Francisco Bay Area Conservancy Program Goal 12: Protect farmlands, including rangeland, from urban encroachment.

Objective 12A: Protect approximately 500 acres of farmland in the nine Bay Area counties.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Independently, or working with local partners, identify willing sellers of fee titles or easements, as appropriate, on farmland properties identified as priorities for acquisition or protection.
• 2. Identify prime, important, or unique farmland at risk of conversion to other uses.
• 3. Negotiate and complete acquisition or protection of these properties.
• 4. Working with partner organizations, develop and implement restoration and enhancement projects in areas identified as priorities.
• 5. Seek matching funds for projects and support partner organizations to obtain additional funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. The numerical goals for acquisition are met on time and are accomplished in a cooperative manner with other agencies and organizations.

GOAL 12 ~ OBJECTIVE 12A BASIS

Protection of 500 acres is an objective derived by evaluating projected loss of farmlands, and by identifying the kinds of farmland that are threatened by urban or suburban encroachment, the level of threat, the capacity of land trusts or other organizations to assist in acquisition or land ownership, and availability of public or private funds. Reports used in the analysis include: 2004 – 2006 California Farmland Conversion Tables, 2005 county crop reports, Acquisition Plan: A Blueprint for Agriculture and Open Space Preservation (Sonoma County Agricultural and Open Space District), South Livermore Valley Area Plan, and Final Agricultural Conservation Easement Plan for Solano Land Trust.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$2,500,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 12B: Protect approximately 5,000 acres of rangeland in the nine Bay Area counties.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Independently, or working with local partners, identify willing sellers of fee titles or easements, as appropriate, on rangeland properties identified as priorities for acquisition or protection.
• 2. Identify rangeland at risk of conversion to other uses.
• 3. Negotiate and complete acquisition or protection of these properties.
• 4. Working with partner organizations, develop and implement restoration and enhancement projects in areas identified as priorities.
• 5. Seek matching funds for projects, and support partner organizations to obtain additional funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. The numerical goals for protection are met on time and are accomplished in a cooperative manner with other agencies and organizations.

GOAL 12 ~ OBJECTIVE 12B BASIS

Protection of 5,000 acres is an objective derived by evaluating projected loss of farmlands, identifying the kinds of farmland, level of threat from urban or suburban encroachment, capacity of land trusts or other organizations to assist in acquisition or land ownership, and available public or private funds. Reports used in analysis include: 2004 – 2006 California Farmland Conversion Tables, 2005 county crop reports, Acquisition Plan: A Blueprint for Agriculture and Open Space Preservation

(Sonoma County Agricultural and Open Space District), South Livermore Valley Area Plan, and Final Agricultural Conservation Easement Plan for Solano Land Trust.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$9,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Objective 12C: Develop or implement three plans or projects that promote conservation technologies and assist farmers and ranchers in complying with best-management practices.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Using the areas identified as Conservancy priorities for agricultural conservation, work with local partners to identify mutual priority projects that are ready for planning and follow-up projects.
• 2. With partners, initiate and participate in planning projects and implementing them in these identified areas.
• 3. Seek matching funds and assist partner organizations to obtain matching funds or grants, as appropriate, which will leverage Conservancy project funds.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completion of plans and projects.

GOAL 12 ~ OBJECTIVE 12C BASIS

This objective is based on discussions with staff of resource conservation districts and local partners about agricultural landowners’ interests in participating in planning and implementing projects that support continued agricultural operations and, where possible, improve environmental conditions.

ESTIMATED CONSERVANCY COST
$1,000,000

FUNDING SOURCES
Propositions 40 and 84

Ocean Protection Council (OPC) Goal 13: Ensure that OPC staff are effective, efficient, accountable, and coordinate well with other organizations in administering OPC affairs, and that their duties, including those of the executive officer, policy staff, and attorneys, are congruent and not in conflict with their duties to the Conservancy.

Objective 13A: Continue to build organizational capacity to carry out OPC initiatives.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Recruit and maintain competent, highly trained, and motivated staff to work on OPC issues.
• 2. Provide regular reports to the Conservancy concerning administration of OPC affairs.
• 3. Develop budget change proposals requesting appropriations to fund OPC priorities and provide administrative support.
• 4. Provide funding to the Resources Agency to maintain the executive policy officer and related support.
• 5. Support a science advisor and scientific advisory panel to ensure the use of best scientific knowledge in OPC decisions and the integration of science, policy, and management.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. A fully functioning staff and sufficient operating and programmatic budget.
• 2. The Coastal Conservancy is fully informed about OPC staff activities.
• 3. Maintenance of a science advisor and development of a science advisory team(s).
• 4. Demonstrable improvement in the use of science in decision-making.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. The budget will include line items for OPC administration and programs from funding sources that are not exclusive to the Conservancy.
• 2. The executive officer will report regularly to the Conservancy concerning OPC staff activities.
• 3. The science advisor will regularly report to the OPC and make occasional reports to the Conservancy concerning improvements in the use of science in decision-making.
• 4. Occasional critiques from both scientists and resource managers will be sought in order to determine the effectiveness of integrating science in policy and management decisions.

Ocean Protection Council (OPC) Goal 14: Ensure that California maintains healthy, resilient, and productive ocean and coastal ecosystems for the benefit of current and future generations, and support compatible economic activities.

Objective 14A: Undertake programs, projects, and initiatives that implement the OPC’s Strategic Plan.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Through contracts, grants, interagency agreements, and other means, provide OPC-appropriated funds to undertake programs, projects, studies, resource management, and policy analyses that implement the OPC Strategic Plan.
• 2. Seek matching funds from other organizations to undertake projects that implement the OPC Strategic Plan.
• 3. Develop grant solicitations or directly develop projects for all of the above.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Completed plans, studies, projects, policy analyses, or improved resource management, that further the goals and objectives of the OPC Strategic Plan.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Conservancy staff of the Ocean Program to provide a yearly update to the OPC and the Conservancy on progress toward meeting strategic plan goals.

Organizational/Operational Issues Goal 15: Be increasingly efficient and effective in carrying out programmatic responsibilities.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

Maintain budgetary and staffing efficiencies while continuing to meet programmatic expectations.

Objective 15A: Recruit and maintain a competent, highly trained, and motivated staff.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Upgrade job classifications to reflect increasing responsibilities, or downgrade as necessary for recruitment and training purposes.
• 2. Manage employee workloads to ensure the continued high performance of all staff.
• 3. Provide training programs and support staff attendance to workshops and conferences to ensure that each employee has the skills and knowledge needed to perform at the highest level of productivity.
• 4. Provide work space and equipment that meets state standards and is designed to maximize comfort, health, productivity, and efficiency, and to reduce work stress and related injuries.
• 5. Cultivate and develop recruitment strategies that will result in a workforce reflecting the cultural diversity of the State of California within all classifications.
• 6. Continue to offer challenging assignments and responsibilities to staff at all levels that stretch their abilities, and provide professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• 7. Continue to offer flexible work schedules to staff, consistent with Governor’s Executive Orders, as well as teleworking, carpooling, etc. in order to reduce the number of days that staff are required to commute, thereby reducing employee stress and the Conservancy’s carbon footprint.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. New job classifications, as necessary.
• 2. Greater level of similarity of workload for all employees of the same classification.
• 3. All employees have an opportunity to take annual training that assists in meeting their individual development plans.
• 4. Periodic ergonomic evaluations of work stations to ensure that each employee has appropriate work space and equipment.
• 5. There is cultural diversity in the workplace throughout all classifications.
• 6. Classifications are downgraded on an as-needed basis to facilitate recruitment and training, use of training-and-development assignments, assistance for education where feasible, and mentoring of staff to assist in career advancement.
• 7. Staff who have completed their probationary periods and are performing adequately may work alternate work schedules or partially telework.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Annual individual evaluations and development plans for each employee.
• 2. Annual review by management to determine success in meeting objectives.

Objective 15B: Implement practices that minimize Conservancy’s contribution to environmental degradation and consumption of natural resources.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Work with the Climate Action Team to identify methodology for calculating the Conservancy’s carbon footprint, and work to reduce overall footprint.
• 2. Continue to offer alternative work schedules to staff, consistent with Governor’s Executive Orders, as well as teleworking, carpooling, etc. in order to reduce the number of days that staff are required to commute, thereby reducing harmful pollutants and emissions into the environment.
• 3. Select meeting spaces that are energy-efficient and promote low-carbon transportation options where feasible.
• 4. Continue to reduce energy use and purchase machines that are energy-efficient and equipped with energy-management settings where possible.
• 5. Use low-carbon transportation options for work-related purposes where feasible. This includes carpooling, public transit and bicycling, and renting low-carbon vehicles where possible (i.e. hybrids are available as rentals at many airports.)
• 6. To reduce travel costs, employee stress, time away from the office, and further contributing to emissions into the environment, continue to hold phone conferences whenever feasible and appropriate in place of traveling to meeting locations.
• 7. Take advantage of other useful operational practices as technological advances increase the quality, fiscal feasibility, and availability of practices that increase staff effectiveness and efficiency and are environmentally sound.
• 8. Minimize the use of paper.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Staff reduces the number of days they commute by private automobile.
• 2. Meetings are held in energy-efficient spaces and in locations that are accessible by public transportation whenever feasible.
• 3. Office machines are energy-efficient, and have energy-management settings.
• 4. The Conservancy participates in all efforts to provide staff with means to utilize public transportation, including subsidies, promotions, and modified schedules to accommodate carpools.
• 5. The Conservancy has a measurable reduction in carbon emissions.
• 6. The Conservancy has conference rooms and quiet rooms set up with conferencing phones for the purpose of holding phone conferences.
• 7. IT staff monitor the availability, quality, and cost of technological advances in the area of various operational office technology and recommend use for the Conservancy as appropriate.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Annual review by management to determine success in meeting objectives.
• 2. Measurements of the Conservancy’s carbon footprint.

Organizational/Operational Issues Goal 16: Improve strategic planning, staff productivity, decision making, coordination with other organizations, and accountability by introducing appropriate technologies.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

Improve the ability to prepare, utilize, and widely disseminate up-to-date reports and data on Conservancy activities. Deploy necessary technology and procedures to maximize the efficiency and productivity of remote staff.

Objective 16A: Maintain and consistently upgrade a project database of Conservancy project information to assist in agency strategic planning, project planning, financial planning, management reporting, and accountability to the Legislature, Resources Agency, control agencies, and the public.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Staff will update current database with new functions for capturing essential or relevant project information.
• 2. Project managers input descriptive and quantitative information into project database prior to Board consideration and update annually.
• 3. Enter historical project information into database as time and budget allow.
• 4. IT and other staff will employ appropriate technologies.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. A fully functioning and secure information system that can provide a wide range of reports and data.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Periodically meet with a range of parties to ensure that the system can provide the types of reports that may be required.

Objective 16B: Develop capability to utilize geographically referenced database technologies (GIS) and other information technology (IT) as tools for project planning, decision making, and reporting.

STRATEGIES

• 1. Cooperate with and secure technical assistance from other departments/agencies and private contractors for IT services needed to support staff with project and planning needs.
• 2. Provide semi-annual reports to the Conservancy’s management team on current IT use, potential IT applications, staff training needs, and system requirements.
• 3. Maintain an in-house information technology committee to annually review and evaluate systems, and to recommend priorities and a budget for purchase of new and updated technology.
• 4. Encourage the sharing of expertise among staff as well as formal training to fully utilize IT.
• 5. Provide basic mapping capabilities on user desktops for use in meetings and for providing information to management, board members, and the Legislature.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Annual recommendations for IT utilization and budget for new purchases.
• 2. The integration of an appropriate level of IT into agency operations.
• 3. Annual improvements in IT capabilities and staff training.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Prepare an annual report on accomplishments and unmet objectives.

Organizational/Operational Issues Goal 17: Ensure that there is an active and effective communications program to inform public policy makers and the general public of the Conservancy’s purposes, actions, and accomplishments, and to respond to interested parties’ ideas and concerns.

STATEWIDE STRATEGY

Maintain and upgrade all aspects of the Conservancy’s communications program.

Objective 17A: Reinforce the Conservancy’s value to core audiences (Legislature, administration, partners, and the general public).

STRATEGIES

• 1. Inform media of Conservancy actions.
• 2. Prepare and place feature stories and letters-to-editors about Conservancy actions, partnerships, and needs.
• 3. Join partners in media and public relations.
• 4. Coordinate public relations and legislative advocacy efforts.
• 5. Provide legislators and their staffs with tours of project sites.
• 6. Prepare annual reports on Conservancy accomplishments.
• 7. Upgrade and maintain Conservancy website.
• 8. Support publication of Coast & Ocean and other print and web materials.

OUTCOME MEASURES

• 1. Preparation and distribution of news releases, articles, media communications, annual reports, and materials for the Legislature.
• 2. News releases and other communications undertaken with project partners.
• 3. Participation in events related to programs and projects.
• 4. Updated website with links to projects.
• 5. Publication of Coast & Ocean and other print and web materials.

MONITORING AND TRACKING

• 1. Communications Director and Legislative Coordinator will monitor and track this objective.