Integrated Regional Water Management Plan - Northern Santa Cruz County

Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan

Preliminary Plan

October 2005

County of Santa Cruz

Soquel Creek Water District

Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District,

Scotts Valley Water District

Santa Cruz County Sanitation District

and Davenport Sanitation District

Prepared by:

Gary Fiske & Associates Kestrel Consulting, Inc. Water Resource Planning and Management Monica Reid, Principal 1671 Highland Drive (831) 277-1752 Lake Oswego, OR 97034 [email protected] 503-577-3003 [email protected]

Acknowledgements Development and completion of this preliminary Integrated Regional Water Management Plan resulted from ongoing collaboration from participating agencies and the IRWMP Steering Committee. It is a pleasure to acknowledge the support and input of the following committee members: Laura Brown, Karen Christensen, and John Ricker. The following agencies integrated efforts and formed cohesive relationships to produce this Plan: ! County of Santa Cruz ! Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District ! Soquel Creek Water District ! Scotts Valley Water District ! Santa Cruz County Sanitation District ! Davenport Sanitation District

Prepared by: Kestrel Consulting, Inc.

(831) 277-1752 [email protected]

with

Gary Fiske & Associates

Water Resources Planning and Management 1671 Highland Drive

Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (503) 577-3003

[email protected]

Table of Contents Cover Acknowledgements Executive Summary………………………………………………………..….. ES-1 A. Introduction…………………………………………………………………… 1 B. Regional Agency……………………………………………………………… 7 C. Region Description……………………………………………………………. 14 Disadvantaged Communities in the Planning Region…………………… 39 D. Objectives…………………………………………………………………….. 43 E. Water Management Strategies………………………………………………… 50 F. Regional Priorities ……………………………………………………………. 58 G. Linkages Among Projects…………………………………………………….. 77 H. Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP)………………………….. 112I. IRWM Plan Expansion ……………………………………………………….. 122J. Implementation………………………………………………………………... 126 K. Schedule for Implementation…………………………………………………. 129 L. Impacts and Benefits…………………………………………………………. 130 M. Technical Analysis and Plan Performance…………………………………… 136 N. Data Management…………………………………………………………….. 137 O. Beneficiaries and Financing…………………………………………………… 142 P. Statewide Priorities……………………………………………………………. 147 Q. Relation to Local Planning…………………………………………………….. 156 R. Stakeholder Involvement……………………………………………………..... 159 S. Coordination……………………………………………………………………. 165 Appendices Appendix A Complete table of all Federal and State listed plant and animal species

present in the County Appendix B Santa Cruz County economic forecast Appendix C Lists of all planning documents referenced Appendix D IRWMP Projects by Water Management Strategies Appendix E Water quality and quantity monitoring efforts in Santa Cruz County Appendix F High priority project budget sheets Appendix G Local newspaper articles and editorials regarding desalination and local

water supply issues Appendix H Letters of Support Appendix I List of Acronyms

Maps Map 1 Agency Jurisdictional Boundaries Map 2 Planning Region and Watershed Boundaries Map 3 Major Groundwater Basins Map 4 Significant Issues In Streams, Lagoons, And Creeks Map 5 Significant Groundwater And Flooding Issues In The Region Map 6 Land Cover in the Region Map 7 Disadvantaged Communities In The Region Map 8 Project Locations Map 9 Projects in the San Lorenzo Sub-basin Map 10 Projects in the Soquel-Aptos Sub-basin Map 11 Projects in the North Coast Sub-basin Map 12 Projects in the Watsonville Sloughs Sub-basin Tables Table 1 Impaired Water Bodies and Sources of Contaminants Table 2 Federally Listed and Endemic Species in Santa Cruz County Table 3 U.S. Census Bureau Income Distribution Categories and Corresponding

Income Ranges in Santa Cruz County Based on 2002 Median Income of Three-Person Households

Table 4 Low Income Three-Person Households in Communities Within the Northern Santa Cruz County Planning Region

Table 5 Evaluation of Projects Against Objectives Table 6 High Priority Projects Table 7 Objectives Met by Regionwide Projects Table 8 Objectives Met by Projects in the San Lorenzo Sub-Basin Table 9 Objectives Met by Projects in the Soquel-Aptos Sub-basin Table 10 Objectives Met by Projects in the Watsonville Sloughs Sub-basin Table 11 Objectives Met by Projects in the North Coast Sub-basin Table 12 Impacts and Benefits Matrix Table 13 Statewide Priorities Addressed by High-Priority Projects Figures Figure 1 Summary of Seawater Intrusion in the Pajaro Valley Groundwater Basin Figure 2 2004 Population by Ethnicity Figure 3 Serious Problems Related to Local Water Supplies Figure 4 Residents’ Reasons for Conserving Water

Northern Santa Cruz County Preliminary IRWMP

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Executive Summary INTRODUCTION Northern Santa Cruz County water agencies face many serious challenges. Addressing these challenges will require the agencies to work together more than ever before. This preliminary Integrated Regional Water Management Plan (IRWMP) is an important step in reinforcing and strengthening the collaborative relationships that have developed over the past years. While the immediate impetus for this plan was the Proposition 50 Chapter 8 requirement, and while the partner agencies carefully followed the state guidelines for the IRWM program, the agencies have seen it as a vehicle to strengthen efforts for truly integrated water management in the north county. The plan also establishes an ongoing regional planning process in which water agencies will take advantage of synergies, jointly address challenges, and move toward a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. The region covered in this plan is based on watershed and jurisdictional boundaries as well as common water management issues. Agencies have worked together since at least 1998 on these issues, and have coordinated on water bond funding since April 2002. The partner agencies are Soquel Creek Water District, Scotts Valley Water District, Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District, County of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz County Sanitation District, and Davenport Sanitation District. Many projects involve several agencies and confer multiple benefits. Projects and benefits are spread equitably across the region, including the area around Watsonville, which meets the state definition of “disadvantaged community,” and in many other communities that have a high percentage of households earning ‘low’, ‘very low’ or ‘extremely low’ incomes. The region faces serious issues of water supply and water quality, as well as significant environmental problems. These challenges are very much interrelated, as potential solutions in one area typically affect the others. Moreover, all of the issues must be addressed in a politically-diverse context, which must be accommodated to reach common goals. PARTICIPATING AGENCIES The following agencies have contributed to the IRWMP effort: Adopting Agencies: County of Santa Cruz Santa Cruz County Resource

Conservation District Soquel Creek Water District

Scotts Valley Water District Santa Cruz County Sanitation

District Davenport Sanitation District


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Participating Agencies: Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County City of Santa Cruz City of Watsonville Watsonville Wetlands Watch Central Water District

KEY REGIONAL CHALLENGES The region must address severe water supply, water quality, and environmental issues. Some of these concerns are region-wide, while others affect one or more sub-basins within the region. Key among them are: Water Supply Each of the three major groundwater basins in the region is in overdraft, one is

experiencing and another is in danger of seawater intrusion. Surface water supplies in the North Coast and San Lorenzo Sub-basins are

insufficient during droughts and late in the water year, often to a huge extent. As demands grow over the next 20-30 years, water shortages for the City of Santa

Cruz system are projected to become the norm, even under so-called ‘average’ hydrologic conditions.

The Community of Davenport’s drinking water treatment system does not meet

current state surface water treatment regulations and the community is under an order to boil water prior to consumption.

Stream base flows have declined as a result of surface diversion and diminished

groundwater levels. Water Quality Threats to surface water and groundwater quality in the region include: Rural road drainage, erosion and sedimentation.

Discharge of pathogens, nitrates and other contaminants into storm drains.

Abandoned wells.

Agricultural and urban runoff.


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Seawater intrusion into groundwater basins.

Substandard septic systems.

Culvert failures contributing to sedimentation.

Since all watersheds in the region flow to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS), these threats also endanger that incomparably valuable resource. Environment Most of the water quality issues described above also adversely affect both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Because Santa Cruz County has an unusually high level of biodiversity, and is studded with many delicate habitats, resolving these problems is imperative to the continued existence of several species and landscapes. In addition, the MBNMS is home to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. The northern Santa Cruz County planning region also includes the southernmost range for the coho salmon, and contains three of the five streams where these fish occur south of San Francisco. Coho salmon are recognized federally and by the State of California as being in imminent danger of extinction. All major streams in the region support steelhead trout, also designated as endangered. All of these issues must be addressed in a region that includes many small political entities with jurisdiction over various water resources. Many of these agencies are multi-purpose jurisdictions for which water is but one of many concerns. There is no single oversight agency. This makes it even more difficult to deal with the region’s substantial and interrelated water concerns. PLANNING PROCESS The integrated regional water management planning process has followed the steps outlined below:

• Since 1996, many of the partner agencies have conducted long range planning efforts at the scale of individual groundwater basins, watersheds and jurisdictions.

• In 1998, the County initiated efforts for coordinated county-wide water resources planning and management

Between 2002 and 2004, the agencies individually identified projects for consideration in the integrated plan.

In 2004, the participating agencies designated a Steering Committee and engaged consultant assistance to develop the IRWMP.


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The Steering Committee, with assistance from the consultants and approval of the larger group, developed a set of planning objectives to guide the prioritization of potential projects.

The identified projects were evaluated against the objectives to determine those that were of high priority. Only the high priority projects were considered for the 2005 implementation grant application.

A large effort was devoted to identifying key linkages among the projects and within and across watersheds.

While the preliminary plan is comprehensive, it was done within significant time and budget constraints. The participating agencies intend to expand this plan over the next two to four years. The final step of this planning process has been to lay out the future proposed plan expansion.

The preliminary IRWMP will be presented to all partners for adoption by the end of 2005.

PLANNING OBJECTIVES The Steering Committee developed IRWMP objectives in the areas of: Water supply reliability Raw water quality Delivered water quality Habitat restoration and maintenance Recreation Public health Flood management Regional economic health Regional collaboration

In addition, the Committee determined that projects must meet two implementation criteria: Readiness to proceed Availability of funding

The precise wordings of the objectives and implementation criteria were thoroughly discussed, to ensure that the words truly reflect regional priorities.

1. Water Supply Reliability Minimize the impact of droughts, production facility failures, or groundwater overdrafts on regional water supplies. Reduce the likelihood of domestic water shortages and any future need to import water from outside the County.


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2. Raw Water Quality

Maximize the quality of surface and ground water in the county by addressing sources or conduits of contamination.

3. Delivered Water Quality

Maximize the quality of delivered drinking water as well as reclaimed water for irrigation.

4. Habitat Restoration & Maintenance

a. Aquatic: Restore and maintain habitats to support local aquatic species. b. Terrestrial: Restore and maintain habitats to support terrestrial species of

local flora and fauna. c. Ocean: Restore and maintain habitats to support Monterey Bay marine

life.

5. Recreation Maximize the recreational value of county water resources.

6. Public Health Minimize adverse water-related public health impacts in the county.

7. Flood Management

Minimize the adverse impacts of future flood events.

8. Regional Economy Add maximum value to the regional economy.

9. Regional Collaboration

Continue and expand collaboration among public and private agencies to address county water-related challenges.

10. Readiness to Proceed Be prepared to proceed with approved projects in a timely manner.

11. Availability of Funding

Ensure that sufficient local and regional funding is available to move forward with projects.

For each of the objectives, the steering committee developed an initial set of detailed sub-objectives drawn from existing planning documents. These indicate more specifically how the objectives will be achieved. It is intended that these sub-objectives be modified and refined as necessary in future planning efforts.


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REGIONAL PRIORITIES For clarity, we use the term ‘projects’ to describe the water management strategies to achieve the regional objectives. Between 2002 and 2004, the agencies reviewed the results of previous planning efforts, examined local needs, and assembled a list of 55 potential projects to be considered. These were then prioritized by evaluating them against the above objectives and implementation criteria. The results of this process are shown in Table ES-1. Based on these evaluation results, the 55 projects were placed into one of two categories: ‘high priority’ projects, or ‘potential future’ projects. A ‘high priority’ project is one that simultaneously meets three conditions:

• It satisfies three or more objectives; and • It is deemed ‘ready to proceed’; and • It has sufficient available local match funding to apply for an implementation

grant. Table ES-2 shows the 17 high priority projects. These each meet at least three objectives. In addition, they are all ready to proceed by July 2006 and have local match funding available. These are the projects for which implementation grant funding is being requested from the Integrated Regional Water Management Grant Program in 2005. Following Table ES-2 are brief descriptions of the “high priority” projects.

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PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS Project # 1: San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades

Provides grants for individual septic system upgrades in order to reduce the input of nitrates and pathogens into the San Lorenzo River.

Project # 2: Abandoned Well Destruction Program

Identifies and destroys old wells which can act as conduits for contaminants to enter groundwater.

Project # 3: Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge

Establishes the feasibility of a regional groundwater storage project to provide reliable drinking water to the lower San Lorenzo River watershed, and increase baseflow to streams.

Project # 4: Regionwide Drainage Master Plan

Completes a master plan for stormwater drainage in northern Santa Cruz County that will facilitate compliance with Clean Water Act regulations.

Project # 5: Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program

Implements priority elements of the countywide stormwater management plan. Project # 6: Enhance and Protect Groundwater Recharge Areas

Implement projects, acquire key properties and establish policies and ordinances to protect and restore groundwater recharge.

Project # 7: Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach

Moves a main sewer line off New Brighton State Beach to avoid sewage spills onto the public beach and into Monterey Bay.

Project # 8: Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project

Completes preliminary engineering for the construction of a facility to provide a supplemental source of drinking water for approximately 135,000 Santa Cruz County residents.

Project # 9: Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project

Redistributes groundwater pumping to a new inland location, improving groundwater management especially with regard to seawater intrusion; installs a sanitary sewer line to serve the water treatment system, a 62 acre regional park and adjacent neighborhood, and implements significant water conservation measures.


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Project # 10: Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations

Installs four to six new groundwater monitoring wells in both coastal and inland locations to monitor saltwater intrusion, improve groundwater management and detect groundwater contamination before it reaches production wells.

Project # 11: Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project

Replaces the water treatment plant and upgrades transmission lines, water mains and storage facilities in the Community of Davenport.

Project # 12: Watsonville Sloughs Integrated Watershed Restoration Restores wetland habitats and natural function in Watsonville Slough by improving the existing system of agricultural and stormwater drainage and other enhancements.

Project # 13: Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase 2)

Implements the second phase of a countywide watershed restoration program that emphasizes: water quality and fishery improvements, partnerships and inter-agency coordination, and a non-regulatory approach that encourages voluntary participation.

Project # 14: Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts Valley Area

Extends an existing recycled water line to four new areas around Scotts Valley, reducing pumping in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin to satisfy major landscaping water demands.

Project # 15: Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project

Diverts excess high flows of surface water from an unnamed stream to an adjacent sand quarry to recharge the aquifer in the center of the El Pueblo Wellfield.

Project # 16: Project Monitoring Program

Establishes a program to evaluate the effectiveness of individual projects as they are implemented, as well as the integrated strategy as a whole. This project will be developed and coordinated with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary water quality monitoring program, the RWQCB, and all other ongoing monitoring efforts.

Project # 17: Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan

Builds on the initial integrated planning effort by addressing certain planning elements in greater detail. Incorporates additional jurisdictions and establishes priorities for 2007-2010.


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PROJECT LINKAGES A distinguishing feature of the Northern Santa Cruz County IRWMP is its focus on linkages among the projects. A key reason for integrated regional planning is to ensure that the whole is, in fact, greater than the sum of its parts. To make this so, it is critical that projects work together to address regional water problems. The IRWMP devoted considerable effort to identifying these linkages. Each of the high-priority projects affects one or more of the four major sub-basins in the planning region. Several of the projects have benefits that are region-wide, or nearly so. The following discussion will first focus on key regional needs and the projects that work together to address those needs. The discussion will then move to the ways that projects work together to address issues in the two sub-basins in which multiple projects are implemented. Considerably more detail is found in Section G in the report body. Region-wide Projects and Issues Region-wide Projects

Project # 2. Abandoned Well Destruction Program Project # 4. Regionwide Drainage Master Plan Project # 5. Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program Project # 13. Integrated Watershed Restoration Program Project # 16. Project Monitoring Project # 17. Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management

Plan Projects 16 and 17 provide a critical underpinning to effectively achieving all objectives. Without systematic monitoring of all projects and the continuation and expansion of the regional planning effort, the likelihood of maximizing the degree to which regional objectives are met is substantially reduced. Region-wide Issues These six region-wide projects work together to address the following key region-wide issues: Current water needs exceed presently available supplies in significant parts of the

region. Much of the region depends on groundwater sources for drinking water.

There are numerous abandoned wells in urban areas that were once agricultural.

These are potential conduits for contamination of municipal wells.


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Excessive erosion, sedimentation, and turbidity have severely degraded habitat for the threatened coho salmon and steelhead, reduced availability of winter flows for water supply and environmental needs, and caused extensive public and private property damage.

Reduced streamflow and baseflow throughout the region also impact habitat for

coho salmon and steelhead. Septic systems, livestock, and small agricultural operations in mountain areas of

the region have the potential to contribute bacteria and nitrate to groundwater and creeks.

Streams throughout the region are subject to direct diversions by individual water

users. The cumulative impacts of these diversions have not been quantified. Groundwater overdraft has diminished streamflows in at least two of the county’s four basins.

Urban runoff in developed areas has degraded water quality at moderate levels in

coastal lagoons and at ocean beaches, and unusual algal blooms have recently occurred.

Sewer leaks and overflows in urban areas cause significant bacterial (pathogenic)

contamination to streams and the ocean during storm events, resulting in threats to public health and designation of beaches as being unsafe for swimming during and after storm periods.

The lack of large woody material in streams reduces sorting of sediment and

greatly diminishes habitat value. Culverts, road crossings and old dams impede fish migration, particularly during

years with lower flows. Wetlands have been reduced and the remaining habitat degraded in urban and

agricultural areas of the region. Key Projects and Issues in the North Coast Sub-Basin North Coast Sub-Basin Projects

Project # 11. Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Project # 6. Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

Issues Specific to the North Coast Sub-Basin • Streams in the North Coast Watershed Area provide supply for agricultural users, the

town of Davenport and of the City of Santa Cruz water supply (25-30% of the total City supply). Groundwater in the area also supplies individual wells and small water


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companies for rural residents in Bonny Doon and other areas of the basin. • City of Santa Cruz year 2020 demand will exceed the safe yield of their system by 1.8

billion gallons (about 5500 acre-feet). The safe yield of their system in a severe drought is 3.3 billion gallons. Present use is about 4.4 billion gallons. Projected growth is 1% a year in demand, and projected demand is about 5.2 billion gallons. Conservation programs are targeted to achieve a 5-10% reduction in use per connection over the long term and between 10 and 15% reduction in short-term use. (SCC, 1996)

• The amount of water available for use by the City of Santa Cruz from Liddell Spring

has been increasingly diminished in recent years by periods of high turbidity and sedimentation. Elevated nitrate is also a concern. The source of these problems may be Bonny Doon Quarry or movement of water through the quarry from sources of contamination above the quarry.

• The geologic structure of basement rock at the Bonny Doon Quarry, Liddell Spring,

parts of Bonny Doon and into UCSC includes a karst limestone system. This geologic system is complex, the pathways of water movement are not easily understood, it is difficult to trace sources of contamination, and water supplies are difficult to predict and manage.

• Although the elevation of groundwater is significantly below sea level (-100 feet) in

the agricultural region along Hwy 1, seawater intrusion has not yet been observed in this basin (Webber-Hayes, 1998). Groundwater alone cannot meet all the agricultural water use demands because quantity and quality constraints. Agricultural water demand includes use of about 250 acre-feet per year of City water at a subsidized rate (SCC, 1996). Both raw water and treated drinking water are conveyed by the City to agricultural users on the North Coast. Raw water for agricultural accounts is delivered at a unit cost which is 1/4 of what city residents pay.

• Stream baseflows available for fish and other downstream uses have been reduced by

water diversions from Scott, San Vicente, Liddell, Majors, and Laguna Creeks. • Water treatment for the Davenport Water system does not meet standards for

treatment of surface water and the system is presently under a boil order. The community has not been able to afford the cost of system upgrade.

Key Projects and Issues in the San Lorenzo Sub-Basin Projects in the Sub-Basin Six high-priority projects will be implemented in this sub-basin, in addition to the region-wide projects:

Project # 1. San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades Project # 3. Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Project # 6. Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas


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Project # 8. Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project Project # 14. Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts

Valley Area Project # 15. Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project

Issues in the Sub-Basin These projects work together to address the following issues: The San Lorenzo River Watershed provides surface water supply for the City of

Santa Cruz system (60-80% of its supply) and for the communities of the San Lorenzo Valley. Groundwater from the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin maintains stream baseflows and provides the entire water supply for the Scotts Valley Water District and approximately half of the supply for the San Lorenzo Valley Water District. Groundwater also supplies an estimated 2200 private wells in the San Lorenzo Watershed.

Since 1986, groundwater levels in some areas have declined in excess of 150 ft.,

significantly reducing water levels in the Santa Margarita and Lompico aquifers, reducing baseflow in Bean Creek, Carbonera Creek, and the San Lorenzo River; and reducing available water supplies for San Lorenzo Water District, Scotts Valley Water District, Mt Hermon, and the City of Santa Cruz.

With a reduction of water levels in the Santa Margarita aquifer, pumping has been

shifted deeper to the Lompico and Butano aquifers, which are the last known developable aquifers in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin. Developed groundwater supplies in the Lompico aquifer, Pasatiempo Unit, are not sustainable at the present gross pumpage of approximately 800 acre feet per year.

Gross groundwater pumpage from the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin (Santa

Margarita, Butano and Lompico aquifers) is equivalent to the previously estimated safe yield for the area's aquifers (4200 acre-feet). Declining groundwater levels and reduction of streamflow suggests that the actual safe yield may be less than amounts currently withdrawn. Proposals for new development projected in Scotts Valley and at Mount Hermon may be out of balance with available supplies.

Coverage by impervious surfaces of primary recharge areas has reduced

groundwater recharge by at least 50% in the city of Scotts Valley and 11% in other parts of the San Lorenzo River Watershed.

Summer stream flows have been further reduced by 15-90%, depending on

location, through direct stream diversions for water supply. Localized contamination by toxic compounds from leaking underground storage

tanks and other sources has degraded groundwater quality, requiring the use of advanced treatment systems, and limiting the use of some wells.

Septic systems, livestock and nonpoint urban contamination have increased


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bacteria levels by 20-50 times and nitrate levels by 5-7 times, threatening the City of Santa Cruz water supply and recreational opportunities in the San Lorenzo River.

Roads are identified as the number one sediment source for the San Lorenzo

Watershed, and excessive sedimentation is the primary reason for the estimated 70-90% reduction in salmon and steelhead populations that has occurred in the watershed since the 1960’s.

Culverts, road crossings and old dams impede fish migration, particularly during years with lower flows.

Rearing habitat for fish in San Lorenzo River Lagoon has been degraded by urban

runoff and poor water quality. The Santa Cruz Main Beach is periodically posted as unsafe due to high bacteria levels

Key Projects and Issues in the Soquel-Aptos Sub-Basin Projects in the Sub-Basin In addition to the region-wide projects, four high-priority projects will be implemented in this sub-basin:

Project # 6. Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas Project # 7. Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach Project # 8. Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project Project # 9. Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water

Conservation Project Project # 10. Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima

Formations Issues in the Sub-Basin These projects work together to address the following issues: Most of the water supply in the sub-basin is groundwater from the Purisima

formation. This formation serves two-thirds of the Soquel Creek Water District, the City of Santa Cruz Beltz Wells, and roughly one thousand private wells. Current pumping exceeds sustainable yield by approximately 600 acre-feet per year.

In the eastern part of the area, groundwater comes from the Aromas Red Sands

aquifer, which is contaminated by seawater intrusion as it extends into the Pajaro Valley. Current pumping practices have resulted in some inland movement of seawater in the La Selva Beach and San Andreas Road areas.

Soquel Creek Water District must develop 1500 to 2000 acre-feet of new supply


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to correct the current overdraft and meet future demand. The City of Santa Cruz’s primary source of supply is surface water, and it relies

on the Beltz Wells during droughts. Not only is this source threatened by seawater contamination, but also it is insufficient to meet the City’s demands. The City’s recent integrated water plan concluded that a major new drought supply is needed immediately to avoid shortages in excess of 40% in a critical drought event.

Coastal groundwater elevations have reached historic lows and remain below sea

level for most of the year. If this condition is not corrected, seawater intrusion will result.

Soquel Creek is drying up more often than measured or observed in previous

years, but there has not been a confirmation of the extent or cause(s). Groundwater levels are now below the level of the creek, causing it to lose flow along the lower reach.

Fish habitat and production have been diminished in Soquel Creek, Arana Gulch,

and Valencia Creek as a result of excessive sedimentation, lack of large woody material, reduced summer baseflows, and impediments to migration.

Coastal lagoons have poor water quality as a result of urban runoff, and beaches

at Capitola and Rio del Mar are periodically posted as unsafe due to high bacteria levels.

Groundwater recharge in the Arana Gulch Watershed can directly influence

groundwater levels near major production wells for both Soquel Creek Water District and the City of Santa Cruz. Reducing runoff and erosion in Arana Gulch is believed to be a primary mechanism to enhance recharge

Similarly, groundwater recharge in the Aptos Hills area can directly influence

groundwater levels in the coastal Aromas aquifer. Key Projects and Issues in the Watsonville Sloughs Sub-Basin In addition to the region-wide projects, one high-priority project will be implemented in this sub-basin:

Project #13. Watsonville Sloughs IWRP The Watsonville Sloughs sub-basin is located within the larger Pajaro Watershed and Pajaro Groundwater Basin. Watsonville Slough drains into the Pajaro River right at its mouth. The projects identified in this plan will address water quality, drainage and habitat issues in the Watsonville Slough sub-basin. Water Supply and flooding issues will be addressed in the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan for the Pajaro Watershed.


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Issues in the Sub-Basin

• The South County/Pajaro Basin includes the watersheds of Corralitos, Coward, and other creeks that drain into the Pajaro River, as well as the Watsonville Slough system and the coastal terrace along San Andreas Road. Most of the water use is groundwater with the vast majority of pumped by individual private agricultural users. The city of Watsonville uses groundwater and two surface diversions from Corralitos and Browns Valley Creeks. Groundwater use is managed by the Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency (PVWMA), which maintains meters on larger wells, charges usage fees, and is responsible for developing and implementing an overall Basin Management Plan.

• Annual pumpage in the Pajaro basin is 68,000 acre-feet/year and is projected to

increase to 78,000 acre-feet/year by 2040. The safe yield is cited in the Basin Management Plan as 31,000 acre-feet/year under current pumping patterns. Estimates in that plan indicate that the safe yield may be increased to 50,000 acre-feet/year if pumping is shifted away from the coast. The PVWMA is planning to shift pumping away from the coastal area and develop an additional 28,000 acre-feet/year of supplemental supply to meet demands through the year 2040 (Montgomery-Watson, 1993).

• The rate of seawater intrusion currently averages about 10,000 acre-feet during a

normal year, ranging up to 15,000 acre-feet during a critically dry year (Montgomery-Watson, 1993).

• The Pajaro area has the largest water supply imbalance in the County. In 1990 the

State raised the possibility of initiating a groundwater adjudication, which would potentially mean reducing groundwater use to match safe yield. Since that time, the PVWMA Basin Management Plan has been developed to address the situation, but there are challenges that may delay or limit its implementation.

• The Watsonville Slough system has been significantly modified through

channelization and drainage. Slough sediment and biota regularly exhibit toxic levels of the banned but persistent pesticide DDT that enters the sloughs from erosion of nearby fields (Questa, 1995). Other contaminants such as heavy metals are present at times, but do not generally occur at toxic levels.

THE INTEGRATED WATERSHED RESTORATION PROGRAM The Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) for Santa Cruz County is a unique example of what can be accomplished when federal, state, and local agencies and organizations work together to tackle the challenges of watershed restoration. Because of the far-reaching scope and complexity of the IWRP, this section provides important background and explanations regarding Project #13: Phase 2 of IWRP, and Project #12: Watsonville Sloughs IWRP, and describes the three phases of the IWRP program.


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Watershed Restoration Planning in Santa Cruz County Many local organizations have taken major steps to address the health of Santa Cruz County’s watersheds. The County of Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District (RCD), the Cities of Santa Cruz, Capitola, and Watsonville, the Coastal Watershed Council, Scotts Creek Watershed Council, Arana Gulch Watershed Alliance, and others recognized a need for comprehensive watershed plans in the late 1990s. These groups have since completed multiple watershed restoration assessments and plans, with funding from several state agencies. These are listed in Appendix C, along with other important regional and local plans and TMDLs, which make recommendations for restoring fish and wildlife habitat and water quality in the region. Because of this proactive approach, Santa Cruz County’s record of completing watershed assessments is exemplary. 75% of the County and 73% of the region are covered by watershed assessments and restoration plans. Multiple benefits arise from these planning efforts. Recommendations contained in all of the plans provide a roadmap for restoring the County’s watersheds. Information in plans and assessments provides a scientific foundation for developing objectives and projects. The collaboration of federal, state, and local organizations has led to new working relationships. These facilitate problem solving and better coordination, and can garner financial support for watershed restoration.

Origins and Mission of IWRP With literally hundreds of recommendations and projects identified in the watershed plans, local partners realized that they would be competing against each other for grant funding. Lack of funding for designs and the complexity of the permit process were problematic. Recognizing that watershed restoration could be more effective as a coordinated countywide effort, the RCD, the Coastal Conservancy, the California Department of Fish and Game, the City of Santa Cruz, the County of Santa Cruz, and the Coastal Watershed Council developed the concept for the “Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) for Santa Cruz County” in 2002 and gained the support of other resource agencies. In addition, IWRP complements the non-regulatory recommendations in the TMDLs (Total Maximum Daily Loads) completed or in preparation for Santa Cruz County watersheds. Particularly relevant are the San Lorenzo River and Aptos/Valencia Creek sediment TMDLs. The mission of IWRP is to facilitate and coordinate projects to improve fish and wildlife habitat and water quality in Santa Cruz County watersheds using a voluntary, non-regulatory approach. Program objectives include:

1. Coordinate project identification, funding, and permitting.

2. Target proposals to critical projects. 3. Facilitate higher quality designs at lower cost.

4. Simplify the permit process for restoration projects.


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5. Effect institutional changes to promote watershed restoration projects. 6. Develop and support outreach and education programs to increase

awareness of watershed resources and threats. 7. Serve as a watershed restoration information hub.

8. Link watershed partners with common goals.

Three Phases of IWRP IWRP is being conducted in three phases. The Coastal Conservancy provided $4.5 million for Phase 1 and $206,000 for the development of the countywide permit coordination program. Funding to implement Phase 2 is being sought from the Integrated Regional Water Management Grant Program. Funding for Phase 3 is likely to come from other grant programs in the future. All three phases also have significant local financial contributions. The following is a description of the program. Phase 1 - Design & Development June 2003-June 2007

Coordination, designs, and permits for restoration projects form the core of Phase 1. Other efforts include the Rural Roads Sediment Reduction Technical Assistance Program, the Comparative Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project, a watershed activity guide and education program, and a monitoring program.

Phase 1 of IWRP will result in:

• 85-95 completed designs and permits for fish passage, sediment reduction, and wetland enhancement projects,

• a coordinated framework involving federal, state, and local resource and regulatory agencies and local partners,

• a screening process to identify priority projects, • one-on-one technical assistance for project leads, • a countywide permit coordination program to facilitate environmentally

beneficial projects on private lands, • an assessment and restoration plan for five county lagoons to improve habitat

and water quality, and • a watershed activity guide tailored to Santa Cruz County for grades 4-12.

Phase 2 - Implementation (IRMWP Projects #12 & 13) 2006-2009 With the completion of the designs for restoration projects in Phase 1, the focus of Phase 2 is on implementation and construction. Many Phase 1 efforts will continue, but there are several specific areas where implementation funding is needed:


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a) Implementing Watsonville Slough habitat restoration and water quality projects designed in Phase 1,

b) Upgrading private and state parks roads for drainage and erosion control, c) Upgrading County roads for erosion control and fish passage,

d) Constructing or implementing additional restoration and water quality projects designed in Phase 1,

e) Implementing the Partners in Restoration Permit Coordination Program, and f) Implementing the Watershed Cruzin’ resource and activity guide and education

program. The components of these are described as follows:

Cost Share Program for Drainage and Road Improvements Watershed assessments have identified rural roads as primary sources of fine sediment in stream systems. This effort provides technical assistance and financial incentives (grants) to road associations and private road owners to identify and correct erosion and drainage problems on their roads. It also makes improvements to certain State Parks roads to reduce sedimentation.

County Road and Culvert Upgrades for Fish Passage and Erosion Control When culverts fail, erosion and flooding are greatly accelerated. Over 50% of flood related damage in 1997 could be attributed to culvert failures. Culverts at some stream crossings affect the passage of salmon and steelhead. This project upgrades or replaces culverts on County roads to reduce erosion and flood risk and improve fish passage. Designs were completed under Phase I of the project, and all permits are in place.

Construct Or Implement Restoration Projects Of the 85-95 critical projects that will be designed in Phase 1, fifteen have sufficient funding to implement, and 70-80 projects require funding to implement or construct. A grant from the Integrated Regional Water Management Program will allow these latter projects to be constructed or implemented in Phase 2. In related efforts, a strategy for implementation of lagoon restoration projects will be developed in Phase 2 and IWRP staff and the Technical Advisory Committee will identify additional watersheds that require assessments and plans, as well as existing watershed plans that need updates.

Implement Permit Coordination Program The Partners in Restoration Permit Coordination Program simplifies the permit process by addressing local and state regulatory agencies’ concerns in a single “master” permit. . This program will accelerate the number of projects done on private land. The NRCS and RCD will administer the program by working with participating landowners to ensure that their projects fit parameters of the


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program and include necessary conditions and protection measures. The NRCS and RCD provide oversight for the permitting agencies. The program was established in Phase 1 and is the first countywide Permit Coordination Program developed in the state of California.

A Permit Coordinator will work with RCD staff and the NRCS to ensure that permit conditions are adhered to. The Coordinator will provide reports to regulatory agencies and arrange site visits. Several IWRP projects will qualify for the permit coordination program, saving time and money.

Implement Watershed Education Program Phase 2 of IWRP will provide teacher training and support to increase the effectiveness of the IWRP watershed activity guide. In addition, materials will be translated into Spanish in order to reach more students. Phase 2 of the Watershed Education Program will operate for three years, pending sufficient grant funding.

Monitoring In order to gauge project effectiveness and evaluate habitat response as a result of IWRP restoration projects, IWRP staff will participate in the development and implementation of the region-wide monitoring program (IRWMP Project #16). Information derived from the monitoring program will be useful in prioritizing future restoration projects for IWRP. IWRP Phase 3: Future Plans and Projects Inter-agency coordination and review of new projects will continue. Regional General Permits will be renewed, as they expire after five years. Coordination positions will continue to be staffed.

Recommendations from the Lagoon Management Plans will be implemented. Watershed planning will occur to address needs identified in Phase 2.

Implementation of the Watershed Cruzin’ activity guide and education program will continue. New outreach and educational partnerships will be developed and new needs identified. IRWM PRELIMINARY PLAN REFINEMENT AND EXPANSION One of the high-priority projects for which the region is requesting funding is Project # 17 (Upgrade and Expansion of the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan). The inclusion of this project reflects the importance that the partner agencies place on continuing the process started by this Preliminary IRWMP. While the partners are proud of the planning effort to date and are confident that the high-priority projects that have emerged from that effort best meet the immediate needs of the region, they also recognize


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that integrated planning must be a dynamic and iterative process. They understand that further efforts will be needed to fully address current priorities and that, as conditions change and/or as better information and analytical tools become available, new priorities may emerge. This is the essence of the integrated planning process. Plan expansion is the vehicle that partner agencies will use to modify and refine priorities in response to regional changes. The IRWM plan expansion includes:

• Institutional enhancements Critical Coastal Areas program Improved tools and analytical capabilities Project sizing, sequencing and operations Additional projects and/or project modifications

Brief descriptions of each of these elements follow: Institutional Enhancements The expanded regional plan will: Identify existing and new formal or informal structures that could better achieve

regional objectives. Explore ways to further integrate additional agencies into the planning process.

Determine how activities of this region can best be coordinated with neighboring

regions. Expand ongoing public and stakeholder involvement processes to assist decision

makers consider range of perspectives in the planning area. Develop regional and/or sub-regional emergency curtailment measures and

programs in the event of a drought, particularly across district boundaries. Critical Coastal Areas Program One of the key challenges facing the region, and one the IRWMP must address, is non-point source (NPS) pollution impacts on coastal resources and the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. The State’s Critical Coastal Areas (CCA) Program is intended to address this issue and build upon local watershed planning efforts to add value to the work already underway in the region’s watersheds. The north Santa Cruz County region includes four state-designated CCAs: San Lorenzo River Soquel Creek Lagoon Aptos Creek Watsonville Sloughs


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Though plans and assessments were recently completed for each of these watersheds, Coastal Commission staff and local planners have identified the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed as being especially well suited for piloting the CCA program in Santa Cruz County. The program will bring together multiple stakeholders to promote a collaborative watershed approach to addressing NPS pollution. The planning process for individual CCAs consists of two components, 1.) conducting a Watershed Assessment, and 2.) developing an Action Plan.

For Watsonville Sloughs Watershed, the watershed assessment is complete, but there is no CCA Action Plan. It is expected that a local committee (comprised of watershed groups, special interest organizations, government agencies, and community members) will be formed to develop the Action Plan. Improved Tools and Analytical Capabilities The ability to understand the tradeoffs among alternative projects and alternative ways to operate existing facilities is in large part a function of the region’s modeling and analytical capabilities and coordination of efforts. The expanded plan will therefore include the following elements: Evaluate, develop and apply appropriate modeling tool(s) and database(s) to

support current and future regional planning in the county. Perform more detailed project evaluations.

Design and implement detailed and rigorous protocols to ensure that regional

benefits (and costs) are carefully monitored and evaluated on an ongoing basis and that plan components can be modified as needed to maximize net benefits.

Project Sizing, Sequencing and Operations The types of institutional and analytical efforts described above will enable the participating agencies to carefully determine how best to size, sequence, and jointly operate the projects that are developed. Additional Projects and/or Project Modifications The current IRWMP has identified 38 potential future projects. The region must systematically determine which of these projects should ultimately be implemented, how they should be financed, how they should be jointly operated, etc. In addition, the expansion and update of the plan will include a process to identify new projects for consideration. Enhanced modeling and analytical capabilities will allow the participating agencies to closely examine the various possibilities, both individually and collectively. Specific plan elements include:


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Identify and evaluate additional water supply projects from a broader list

of supply options. Thoroughly integrate water conservation and water reuse into the IRWMP

process. Evaluate and develop more system interties and capabilities to move water

between systems for mutual aid and conjunctive use. Identify additional environmental restoration project and coordination

needs. IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES The IRWMP is being collaboratively implemented by the partner agencies and other agencies within the region. Individual agencies are pursuing projects within their jurisdiction and are coordinating and communicating with other agencies and stakeholders. County water resources staff provide an additional level of oversight and participation. To assist in implementation of the IRWMP, the partner agencies have applied for funding assistance under Proposition 50 with the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County acting as the grant applicant and the fiscal agent. The partner agencies will continue to utilize a steering committee of regional water managers to oversee implementation. The partner agencies and the Community Foundation together will develop an agreement clearly describing each agency’s responsibilities for implementing projects funded by the implementation grant. This will be done when it is known whether the initial grant proposal will be considered in the second step of the grant process. Founded in 1982, the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County is a public, nonprofit 501(c) 3 organization created by area residents as a permanent resource for the entire county. The Foundation’s mission is to promote philanthropy to make Santa Cruz County a better place to live, now and in the future. To accomplish this, the organization: Helps donors in their charitable giving Assists financial advisors and attorneys to explore giving options to benefit their

clients Provides grants and resources to community organizations, and Works with government, private foundations, and local leaders to address current

and emerging needs. The grant proposal will include funding to manage, administer and coordinate the overall effort. This is likely to be done by an experienced project management contractor. Each


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individual project will have a clearly identified project manager, and construction projects will have clearly identified construction managers as well. The partner agencies will work on a reimbursable basis. The Community Foundation will submit monthly invoices for reimbursement and, upon payment, will transfer the funds back to the local agencies. STATEWIDE AND LOCAL PRIORITIES The preliminary Northern Santa Cruz County IRWMP supports many statewide and local priorities that have been identified in a range of prior planning documents. These are described in detail in the body of the report (Sections P and Q).


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A. Introduction Need for Integrated Water Management Planning Northern Santa Cruz County water agencies face multiple severe challenges. Addressing those challenges will require the agencies to work together more than ever before. This Integrated Regional Water Management Plan (IRWMP) is an important step in reinforcing and strengthening the collaborative relationships that have developed over the past years. While the immediate impetus for this plan was the Proposition 50 Chapter 8 requirement, participating agencies have, from the plan’s inception, seen it as a vehicle to strengthen current efforts for truly integrated water management in the north county. The region covered in this plan is based on watershed and jurisdictional boundaries as well as common water management issues. Agencies have worked together since at least 1998 on these issues, and have coordinated on water bond funding since April 2002. Most projects involve several agencies and confer multiple benefits. Adopting Agencies The following agencies partnered in the development of this preliminary IRWMP and will adopt the plan in 2005. These are sometimes referred to as the partner agencies: County of Santa Cruz (Public Works Dept. and Environmental Health Services) Santa Cruz County Sanitation District Soquel Creek Water District Scotts Valley Water District Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District Davenport Sanitation District

Participating Agencies: These agencies are key partners in implementing specific projects: Community Foundation of Santa

Cruz County City of Santa Cruz City of Watsonville

Watsonville Wetlands Watch Central Water District

Additional Implementation Partners NOAA Fisheries US Fish and Wildlife Service US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Conservation Service CA Department of Fish and Game Regional Water Quality Control Board 3 Coastal Conservancy Coastal Commission CA Department of Forestry CA Department of Parks and Recreation Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Fishnet4C Coastal Watershed Council County Dept of Planning City of Capitola Scotts Creek Watershed Council

Arana Gulch Watershed Alliance

Sustainable Conservation


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The region faces issues of water supply and water quality, as well as significant environmental problems. These challenges are very much interrelated, as potential solutions in one area typically affect the others. Moreover, all of the issues must be addressed in a politically-diverse context, which must be accommodated to reach common goals. Water Supply Challenges Examples of key regional water supply concerns include: Each of the three major groundwater basins in the region is in overdraft The two

coastal basins are in danger of seawater intrusion and the average groundwater levels in the inland basin have decreased approximately 100 to 200 feet over the last 25 years as a result of pumping and reduced groundwater recharge.

Surface water supplies are insufficient, often to a huge extent. Thus, if the region

were to experience a drought similar to the one that occurred in 1976-1977, the City of Santa Cruz would barely be able to serve half of the summer water demand of its 90,000 water customers.

As demands grow over the next 20-30 years, surface water shortages are projected

to become the norm, even in so-called ‘average’ hydrologic conditions. The Community of Davenport’s drinking water treatment system does not meet

current state surface water treatment regulations and the community is under an order to boil water prior to consumption.

Stream base flows have declined as a result of surface diversion and diminished

groundwater levels. Water Quality Challenges At least fourteen studies or watershed assessments completed in the last five years have described the need to address serious water quality problems in the region. The quality of both surface water and groundwater in the region is deteriorating and faces many threats, including: Discharge of pathogens and other contaminants in storm drains

Potential for introduction of contaminants in abandoned wells

Agricultural and urban runoff

Seawater intrusion into groundwater basins

Substandard septic systems

Rural road drainage, culvert failures, erosion and sedimentation


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Since all watersheds in the region flow to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, these threats also endanger that incomparably valuable resource. Environmental Challenges Most of the water quality issues described above also adversely affect both aquatic and terrestrial habitats:

• Santa Cruz County has an unusually high level of biodiversity, and is studded with many delicate habitats,

• The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is home to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world, including thirty-three marine mammal species, ninety-four seabird species, 345 fish species and numerous invertebrates and plants.

• The northern Santa Cruz County planning region includes the southernmost range for the Coho salmon, and contains three of the five streams where these fish occur south of San Francisco. Coho salmon are recognized federally and by the State of California as being in imminent danger of extinction.

• All significant streams in the region are utilized by steelhead trout, which are also designated as endangered.

Political Challenges Within the planning region are many separate political entities with jurisdiction over various water resources. Many of these agencies are multi-purpose jurisdictions for which water is but one of many concerns. There is not one coordinating agency with overall authority. All of these conditions make it more challenging to deal with the region’s substantial and interrelated water concerns. The participating agencies recognized that all of these challenges point to a need for careful and substantive regional planning and project implementation. Only in that way can investments be prioritized to maximize regional benefits and allow the region to take advantage of important project synergies (see discussion of these in Section G). There is, among the agencies in the region, an institutional and political will to use this opportunity to address a constellation of serious water management issues. Philosophy and Goals of the IRWM Plan The partner agencies have demonstrated a consistent institutional will to work closely together at least since 1998. When this institutional will is combined with a well-conceived integrated regional planning process, the potential for solving regional challenges is greatly enhanced. The philosophy underlying this northern Santa Cruz County IRWMP is that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Its focus is regional, and its goals are to maximize regional benefits and minimize regional costs. Proposition 50 and the Integrated Regional Water Management Grant Program have given the participating agencies a unique opportunity to accelerate a collaborative process in which they have been involved for many years. The partners are excited about this


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opportunity and view the current plan as key step toward a more comprehensive regional planning process, which will proceed regardless of the outcome of the grant process. The IRWM Planning Process The planning process in which the participating agencies have engaged has followed the steps outlined below:

• Since 1996, many of the partner agencies have conducted long range planning efforts at the scale of individual groundwater basins, watersheds and jurisdictions.

• In 1998, the County initiated efforts to support and strengthen coordinated programs for water resources and watershed management.

Between 2002 and 2004, the agencies worked together to identify projects for consideration in the integrated plan.

In 2004, the participating agencies designated a Steering Committee and engaged consultant assistance to develop the preliminary IRWMP.

The Steering Committee, with assistance from the consultants and approval of the larger group, developed a set of planning objectives to guide the prioritization of potential projects. This process is described in Section D.

The identified projects were evaluated against the objectives to determine if they were high priority. Only the high priority projects were considered for the implementation grant application. This process is described in Section F.

As described in Section G, a large effort was devoted to identifying key linkages among the projects within and across watersheds.

The process addressed all Plan standards as laid out in the Integrated Regional Water Management grant program guidelines; minimum standards were exceeded.

The preliminary plan is comprehensive, but was done within significant time and budget constraints. The participating agencies intend to expand this plan over the next four years.

The preliminary IRWMP will be adopted by the end of 2005. Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) for Santa Cruz County One unique integrated watershed effort already underway in Santa Cruz County is worth noting since it provides a solid foundation for the water quality and habitat restoration aspects of the IRWMP. The Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) for Santa Cruz County was developed to assist in implementing recommendations of fourteen watershed plans and assessments completed for seven watersheds in the county. The mission of IWRP is to facilitate and coordinate projects to improve fish and wildlife habitat and water quality in Santa Cruz County watersheds using a voluntary, non-regulatory approach. IWRP establishes an infrastructure that brings federal, state, and local resources agencies and organizations together to reduce sedimentation, improve fish passage, and restore wetlands in county watersheds. The objectives of the program are as follows:


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1. Coordinate resource agencies: project identification, funding, permitting 2. Target proposals to critical projects

3. Facilitate higher quality designs at lower cost 4. Simplify permit process

5. Effect institutional change within agencies and organizations to promote watershed restoration projects

6. Develop and support outreach and education programs to increase awareness of watershed resources and threats

7. Serve as watershed restoration information hub 8. Link watershed partners with common goals

The Coastal Conservancy funded Phase 1 of IWRP in 2003, and the Phase 1 project extends into summer 2007. The primary focus of Phase 1 is to complete designs and permits for approximately 85-95 high priority projects recommended in the watershed plans. A technical advisory committee composed of federal, state, and local resource agencies oversees and facilitates this process. The first Partners in Restoration countywide permit coordination program was established in Phase I of IWRP. The program eases the complexity surrounding permits for landowners to do certain types of restoration projects. It has become a model for other areas of California. Phase 1 will also produce management and restoration recommendations for five of the county’s lagoons, through the Comparative Lagoon Ecosystem Assessment Project. Federal, state, and local agencies involved in lagoon management oversee this effort which will be completed in 2005. An additional product of Phase 1 is a 200-page watershed resource and activity guide for grades 4-12 designed to complement the Coastal Commission’s highly successful Waves, Wetland, and Watersheds guide. It will help students explore and better understand the physical, biological, chemical, geological, and land use aspects of local watersheds. In summary, Phase I of IWRP has put into motion a coordinated effort to restore Santa Cruz County watersheds. It has funded the plans and permits for dozens of critical environmental restoration projects, such as fish passage improvements, erosion control projects, and restoration of riparian and upland habitats. Furthermore, it has cemented positive working relationships that will be extended into Phase 2. In Phase 2 of IWRP, 70-80 restoration projects that were planned in Phase 1 will be constructed or implemented, and 10-20 additional projects will have designs and permits completed. In addition to the restoration projects, projects will be implemented on county, private and state parks roads to improve erosion control and fish passage. The Permit Coordination Program will be continued, and an education program based on the watershed activity guide will be implemented in County schools. Interagency coordination will be continued. Section H contains a complete description of the history of the IWRP program, and additional details of Phases 1-3.


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The partnerships, integration and synergies developed through IWRP have contributed greatly to the development of the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan. In many ways, the program provides a local model for implementing a coordinated suite of projects. The RCD, Coastal Conservancy and other IWRP partners have shared successful strategies for implementation, and these have been incorporated in the IRWMP.


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B. Regional Agency Responsible Regional Agency Six agency partners are participants in development and implementation of this plan. Map #1 shows the jurisdictional boundaries. The agencies have cooperated by mutual agreement since at least 1998 on water management issues, and since 2002 on matters related to water bond funding. Recently, these discussions have expanded to include integrated regional water management planning. This IRWMP has been developed to satisfy water supply needs of the region and address the requirements of the Integrated Regional Water Management grant program, which was developed from the Water Security, Clean Drinking Water, Coastal and Beach Protection Act of 2002. Many of these agencies have previously worked together to develop watershed assessment and enhancement plans for seven county watersheds and two coastal lagoons. Their collaboration was solidified with the development of the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP), which is described in detail in Section H. For the purposes of administering a single implementation grant for the high priority projects identified in this plan, the partner agencies have reached an agreement to work with the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County. The Community Foundation will be the applicant in 2005/2006 for a state grant to implement this plan. Member Agencies and Organizations Six organizations have partnered in development of this Plan: Soquel Creek Water District, Scotts Valley Water District, Santa Cruz County Sanitation District, Davenport Sanitation District, Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District, and the County of Santa Cruz. These participating agencies are the appropriate entities to achieve the Plan objectives because they constitute the major water suppliers, stormwater managers, and restoration coordinators in the region. The cities of Santa Cruz and Watsonville will be partners in implementing certain high priority projects, along with Central Water District, Watsonville Wetlands Watch and watershed groups from each major watershed in the region.

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Participating Agency Management Responsibilities Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District The mission of the Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District (RCD) is to help people protect, conserve, and restore natural resources through information, education, and technical assistance programs. The RCD assists local watershed groups with implementation of resource enhancement projects, and collaborates with agencies such as the County of Santa Cruz, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Coastal Watershed Council, Coastal Conservancy, Regional Water Quality Control Board, California Department of Fish and Game, NOAA Fisheries, and others to coordinate strategic planning, implementation, and funding of habitat restoration and water quality projects. The RCD administers and manages the IWRP and services over 260,000 acres, providing conservation assistance to property owners, cooperating agencies, organizations, groups, and units of government. Conservation problems are treated on an individual, group, community, or watershed basis. Soquel Creek Water District The Soquel Creek Water District (SqCWD) provides potable drinking water and groundwater resource management within its service area in mid-Santa Cruz County, which includes the City of Capitola and the unincorporated communities of Aptos, La Selva Beach, Rio Del Mar, Seascape, Seacliff Beach, and Soquel. SqCWD serves a population of more than 45,000 through approximately 14,000 connections. Ninety percent of the SqCWD’s customers are residential, and there are no agricultural connections to the system. The District receives 100 percent of its water from two groundwater aquifers, the Purisima Formation and the Aromas Red Sands, and currently operates 16 production wells with an estimated production capacity of over 15 million gallons per day. Annual production is 5400af/yr. In response to reported conditions of overdraft and seawater intrusion, Soquel Creek Water District became active in groundwater management in the early 1980’s and adopted an AB3030 groundwater management plan in 1996 under a Joint Powers Agreement with Central Water District. The groundwater management program has focused primarily on the coastal part of the aquifer system where the majority of water supply was historically developed. The two Districts are now working with the County and the City of Santa Cruz to expand the plan to cover the full groundwater basin. A series of monitoring wells collect data on water levels and water quality relative to seawater intrusion. SqCWD has completed a number of studies with respect to hydrogeology of the groundwater basin, stream and aquifer interactions, sustainable groundwater basin yield and conjunctive use or supplemental supply alternatives. The District convened a 20-member Public Advisory Committee in 1997 to develop an Integrated Resources Plan (IRP). The IRP identifies projected demand, optimal savings through conservation, and conjunctive use projects. These could yield approximately 2,000 acre-feet per year to supplement groundwater supplies and eliminate overdraft in the Soquel Aptos Area. The District is preparing a program level EIR for conjunctive use


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water supply, focusing on two regional alternatives -- a desalination project with the City of Santa Cruz and a water import/groundwater banking project with Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency. The District has also completed a feasibility study for Satellite Reclamation Plants to serve large irrigators. SqCWD has also implemented an aggressive conservation program, including a demand offset program whereby new connections must install retrofits for existing users to ensure that there is no net increase in water use County of Santa Cruz Although it does not have a centralized water supply agency, the County of Santa Cruz has historically coordinated countywide water management efforts through long range water supply planning, watershed management programs, and development and implementation of strong General Plan policies and programs for water resource protection and management. The level of County effort has fluctuated over the past 30 years, partly in response to fluctuations in local funding. The General Plan contains numerous recommended programs and policies for water resources protection and management. Current county efforts focus on monitoring, investigation, planning, policy development, and management activities in the areas of water quality protection, erosion control, habitat restoration, stormwater management, and flood management. Efforts are being made to expand programs in the areas of water supply planning and comprehensive management. County water resource management programs are presently carried out in three departments: Planning, Public Works and Environmental Health, and coordinated by the Environmental Health Department. Areas of responsibility with regard to water resources are described below. The Planning Department provides environmental review of all projects, and oversight of development activities such as grading, clearing, building, quarries, erosion control, and riparian corridor disturbance. The department develops and implements General Plan Policies and Programs, and provides code compliance review and correction of erosion problems, riparian corridor impacts and other illegal damage to environmental resources. Public Works is responsible for these areas of water resource management: compliance monitoring for sewage discharge requirements and industrial waste dischargers, maintenance and upgrade of sewage collection systems and small plants, operation of the Household Hazardous Waste Program, maintenance, improvement, and operation of drainage facilities, including silt and grease traps, flood control channels, and sloughs, maintenance and improvement of roads, including drainage and erosion control features; assessment and repair of road-related sediment sources and conditions for fish passage; operation of ALERT Flood Warning system for key watersheds; coordination and implementation of the stormwater management program and groundwater monitoring around County landfills. The Environmental Health Services (EHS), a division of the Health Services Agency, has been designated as responsible for coordinating the County’s water resource management efforts. EHS staff monitor bacteria, nitrate and flow at ocean beaches, coastal lagoons,


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coastal streams and storm drains. Staff maintain a database on streamflow and water quality, oversee hazardous materials facilities operations and cleanups, oversee 130 small water systems, regulate installation of new wells, ensure adequate water supply for new development using individual water systems, and oversee onsite wastewater treatment systems. EHS has oversight of water conservation; groundwater supply and groundwater recharge programs and provides staff support to the County Water Advisory Commission and the County Fish and Game Advisory Commission. Additionally, EHS participates in regional monitoring efforts conducted by the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the Regional Water Board and others, reviews water rights applications and promotes stream habitat improvement projects. Scotts Valley Water District Scotts Valley Water District (SVWD) is a public agency with primary responsibility for the management and supply of water to the area of Scotts Valley. SVWD provides service to most of the City of Scotts Valley and some areas outside the city limits through its 3700 water connections. The District is mostly residential, with commercial development along the Scotts Valley Drive (old Highway 17) and Mt. Hermon Road corridors. Water in the Scotts Valley Water District is used predominately for single and multi-family residential purposes, accounting for about two-thirds of the total demand. SVWD relies solely on groundwater sources from the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin (including the Santa Margarita, Monterey, Lompico and Butano formations). The Basin has been designated as a “sole source aquifer” by the USEPA. SVWD is addressing the groundwater shortfall with a variety of management actions including groundwater exploration, modeling, water conservation planning, artificial recharge investigations and water recycling. The District initiated recycled water use in 2002. SVWD released its groundwater management plan in 1994 and prepares annual groundwater management report updates. The District promotes water quality protection by monitoring surface and groundwater quality, and by operating water treatment facilities to ensure that water delivered to customers meets all drinking water standards. The District is active in water resource management in the basin, sponsoring two stream gauges, monitoring climatic conditions, tracking groundwater use, supporting hydrogeologic studies, and participating in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin Advisory Committee along with the County, San Lorenzo Valley Water District, and the Lompico Creek Water District. Santa Cruz County Sanitation District The Santa Cruz County Sanitation District provides sewage collection, treatment and disposal services to the Live Oak, Capitola, Soquel, and Aptos areas. The District currently maintains 31,233 connections. Sewage is transported from the Lode Street facility near Capitola to the wastewater treatment plant at Neary Lagoon, which is owned and operated by the City of Santa Cruz. The District administers, maintains, and improves sanitary sewer facilities. Staffing is provided by the Santa Cruz County Public Works Department. Sanitation personnel in Public Works also provide service to Davenport, Freedom, Place de Mer, Sand Dollar Beach, Boulder Creek Country Club, Rolling Woods, Trestle Beach, and Graham Hill/Woods Cove.


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Davenport Sanitation District The Davenport Sanitation District is a non-profit public agency providing clean drinking water and sewage collection, treatment and disposal services to the town of Davenport. There are currently 89 sanitary sewer connections and 108 water service connections, serving a population of about 500. The following agencies are also key participants in implementing certain high priority projects covered in this Plan. City of Santa Cruz The City of Santa Cruz provides water service to an area approximately 30 square miles in size, including the entire City and adjoining unincorporated areas. Water service is also provided to a small portion of the City of Capitola along 41st Avenue, which is predominantly commercial. The current sources of water supply include surface water from the San Lorenzo Watershed (60-80%), surface water from north coast streams (20-30%) and a wellfield in the Live Oak area. The Santa Cruz Water Department serves over 90,000 customers, which is approximately 1/3 of the county’s population. Per-capita residential usage is among the lowest in the state, 76 gallons per person per day, compared to statewide and Central Coast figures of 130 and 113 gallons respectively. Conservation programs are expected to achieve an annual demand reduction of 280 million gallons by 2010. The City has completed several alternative supply studies and an Integrated Water Plan (2003). It is now actively pursuing a desalination strategy with Soquel Creek Water District to provide additional water supply during drought years. The City has an active watershed management program. The City operates and maintains a regional wastewater treatment and disposal facility, and is implementing a comprehensive stormwater management program. City of Watsonville Although not all of the City of Watsonville lies within the planning region, some portions are in the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed covered in this Plan. As of 2000, Watsonville had 14,119 service connections. Twelve groundwater wells currently provide the city with approximately 6,600 acre-feet of water per year, an equivalent of approximately 10% of groundwater pumped from the Pajaro Valley Basin. Water is also diverted from two creeks north of the city limits. Surface diversions are piped to the Corralitos Filter Plant, which currently produces approximately 1,100 acre-feet of water per year, though it has a higher capacity. The City’s potable water distribution system is comprised of 152 miles of pipeline, eight reservoirs or water storage facilities, and ten pumping stations. The City of Watsonville has implemented a water conservation program, and is developing a recycled wastewater project in conjunction with the Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency to serve agricultural users so that groundwater pumping can be reduced in the coastal area. The City also operates a wastewater treatment plant that


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treats approximately 7 million gallons of wastewater per day to secondary standards and discharges to the ocean. The City has implemented a Storm Water Management Program since 2003, and enforces a series of best management practices and associated measurable goals to meet the six minimum control measures identified in the Phase II NPDES Program. A Trails Master Plan has recently been developed that proposes a system of footpaths, bicycle paths, point access for disabled users, and tie-ins to commercial development.

Watsonville Wetlands Watch Watsonville Wetlands Watch (WWW) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to protecting, restoring, and appreciating the wetlands of the Pajaro Valley. The organization was incorporated in 1999 but functioned informally for about 10 years prior to that. WWW has approximately 200 members from communities around the Monterey Bay area. The activities of WWW are carried out by several committees, which are responsible for fundraising, education, restoration work and review and comment on land development projects proposed for the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed. Central Water District Central Water District was formed in 1950. It serves 2700 customers through 800 connections. Water supply is from five wells. The District participates in the Joint Powers agreement with SqCWD to manage groundwater in the Soquel-Aptos Groundwater Basin.


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C. Region Description This section describes the Northern Santa Cruz County planning region. Particular focus is given to regional and sub-regional water quantity and quality concerns. Setting Santa Cruz County is situated at the northern end of Monterey Bay, 65 miles south of San Francisco, 35 miles north of Monterey, and 35 miles southwest of the Silicon Valley. The County encompasses 388,950 acres (446 square miles) of which 6.7 square miles are covered by water. In the north County, the San Lorenzo River drains the 138 square mile San Lorenzo River watershed, the largest watershed that is completely within the County. The boundaries of the County are associated mainly with physical land features. The Pajaro River is the southern boundary, the crest of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean form the eastern and western boundaries. Region Boundaries The Northern Santa Cruz County IRWMP region encompasses approximately 80% of the population and 84.3% of the area of Santa Cruz County. The watersheds within the planning area share common issues and fall within the jurisdictions of the six agencies that have worked together since 1998 to integrate water management strategies. The planning area includes the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed, but does not include the remainder of the Pajaro Watershed. The Watsonville Slough system is the lowest portion of the Pajaro River watershed and has a unique set of water management issues that distinguish it from the remainder of the Pajaro Watershed. Agencies from the Pajaro watershed participated in many discussions; however, they made a decision in 2003 to pursue a separate Integrated Regional Water Management planning effort based on the issues, complexities and partners unique to that area which encompasses over 1300 square miles and significant portions of four counties. Coordination with Neighboring Regions To the extent possible given the limited time and budget for development of this Plan, the partner agencies have coordinated efforts with planners working in the Pajaro Watershed, and the greater Monterey Bay Area. Agencies are aware of each other’s efforts and projects which overlap the Pajaro Watershed have been specifically identified and coordinated. The Pajaro IRWMP will address issues of groundwater management and flooding in the Watsonville Sloughs area, while the Santa Cruz County IRWMP addresses water quality protection and habitat restoration in the sloughs. The Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments is discussing coordination between all of the various water management efforts around Monterey Bay. Region Appropriateness The region covered in this plan is based on watershed and jurisdictional boundaries as well as common water management issues. The issues and the solutions to these issues are all geographically contained within the region. Map 2 shows the region and identifies major watersheds.

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Quantity and Quality of Water Resources Water Quantity: Regionwide Issues Current water needs exceed available supplies in significant parts of each of the four basins of the region. Streams throughout the area are subject to direct diversions by individual water users and some streams are also subject to substantial municipal diversions. The cumulative impacts of these diversions have not been quantified. However, stream water flows have been measurably diminished the San Lorenzo and Soquel/Aptos sub-basins. There are lowered groundwater levels and groundwater contributions to summer flows are reduced. These are most critical for fish and water supply. Two of the primary water management problems in the region are the lack of adequate surface water supply during droughts, and depletion of the aquifers. Map 3 denotes major groundwater basins in the region. Other than the City of Santa Cruz’s single storage reservoir, all surface water sources dependent on available flow and are utilized at maximum capacity for a significant portion of the year. The two primary aquifers that comprise the Santa Margarita Basin are both in overdraft. Aquifers underlying the Soquel–Aptos area are also in overdraft. Additional water is not available from these sources to support current levels of demand or even modest future growth. To remedy this situation, local water agencies are actively pursuing supplemental supply alternatives, in particular, desalination, as well as conjunctive use and groundwater recharge enhancement projects. Water Quality: Regionwide Issues Ocean Water Quality The entire planning region flows to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Periodic upwelling and extensive year-round mixing with the open ocean result in well-buffered, highly productive and well-oxygenated waters in Monterey Bay, all of which results in ocean water quality off Santa Cruz County which is generally considered to be good. However the nearshore waters are more problematic, specifically with regard to beach and lagoon water quality. Urban runoff in developed areas has degraded water quality at moderate levels in coastal lagoons and at ocean beaches, and unusual algal blooms have recently occurred. Sewer leaks and overflows contribute to this problem. All urban lagoons1 in this planning region are posted as unsafe for swimming year round due to high bacteria levels. Local beaches are frequently posted as unsafe for human contact in response to elevated bacteria. Santa Cruz County has had 50-100 beach-days of posting every year since AB 411 reporting began in 1999. The most problematic beaches are Santa Cruz Main Beach, Capitola Beach and Rio Del Mar Beach, which all are within this planning region.

1 Aptos Creek at Rio del Mar Beach, Soquel Creek mouth at Capitola Beach, San Lorenzo River mouth, Porter Gulch Creek at New Brighton State Beach, Schwan Lagoon at Twin Lakes Beach and Moore Creek at Natural Bridges Beach.


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River/Stream Water Quality Development in the watersheds has increased runoff and erosion and decreased groundwater recharge in many Santa Cruz County watershed sub-basins. Table 1 shows the 303 (d) list of impaired water bodies approved in July 2003. Map 4 depicts significant issues in streams, lagoons, and creeks in the region. Despite these listings, many local waterways are reported to have less impairment in 2003 than in 2001, perhaps reflecting increased attention to stormwater management and nonpoint source pollution reduction. From 1989 to 2002, six out of eleven County waterways showed improvement in the percentage of impairment by pollutants. A complete list of approved TMDLs for these waterbodies and TMDLs in progress can be found in Section P. Excessive erosion, sedimentation, and turbidity have severely degraded habitat for coho salmon and steelhead, reduced availability of winter flows for both water supply and environmental needs, and caused extensive public and private property damage. Excessive sedimentation is the primary reason for the estimated 70-90% reduction in salmon and steelhead populations that have occurred in the San Lorenzo Watershed since the 1960’s.2 Many areas of wetlands and sloughs in the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed have been drained, channelized and converted to agriculture. These land use changes for increased agriculture production have resulted in soil erosion, reduced groundwater levels, and seawater intrusion. Housing developments along lower Watsonville Slough has reduced habitat behind the dune fields and modified the drainage of the marsh and slough.3 Groundwater Quality Septic systems, livestock, and agricultural operations in unincorporated areas of the region have the potential to contribute nitrate to groundwater. Current impacts are generally low, with some of the worst areas in the middle San Lorenzo Watershed. Leakage and spills from gas stations, dry cleaners and other hazardous materials sites have caused localized groundwater contamination and pose more serious threats to water supplies. Priority areas to be addressed are Scotts Valley in the San Lorenzo Watershed, and the Soquel and Aptos watersheds. Groundwater underlying the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed has significant seawater intrusion and nitrate contamination problems. Map 5 shows locations of significant groundwater and flooding issues in the region.

2 San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update, December 2001 3 Watsonville Sloughs Watershed Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan, 2003.

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Table 1 Impaired Water Bodies and Sources of Contaminants

Water Body Pollutant/Stressor Potential Sources

Aptos Creek Pathogens Urban runoff/storm sewers Sedimentation/siltation Disturbed sites (land development)

Channel erosion Bean Creek Sedimentation/siltation Road construction

Disturbed sites (land development) Resource extraction Erosion/siltation Nonpoint source

Boulder Creek Sedimentation/siltation Specialty crop production

Silviculture Road construction Disturbed sites (land development) Erosion/siltation Nonpoint source

Carbonera Creek Nutrients*** Nonpoint source Pathogens Urban runoff/storm sewers

Nonpoint source Sedimentation/siltation Construction/land development

Nonpoint source Lompico Creek Nutrients Septic Systems Pathogens Septic SystemsNatural sources

Nonpoint source Sedimentation/siltation Construction/land development

Natural sources

Corralitos Creek Pathogens*** Septic systems Nonpoint source

Newell Creek (upper) Sedimentation/siltation Agriculture

Silviculture Road construction Disturbed sites (land development) Channel erosion Erosion/siltation Nonpoint source

San Lorenzo River Nutrients Septic SystemsNonpoint source Pathogens Urban runoff/storm sewers

Septic Systems


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Table 1 (continued)

Impaired Water Bodies and Sources of Contaminants

Water Body Pollutant/Stressor Potential Sources San Lorenzo River Lagoon Pathogens Urban runoff/storm sewers

Natural sources Schwan Lake Nutrients Nonpoint source Pathogens Urban runoff/storm sewers

Natural sources Soquel lagoon Nutrients Septic SystemsNonpoint source Pathogens Urban runoff/storm sewers

Natural sources Nonpoint source

Sedimentation/siltation Construction/land development Valencia Creek Pathogens Agriculture

Septic Systems Nonpoint sources Natural sources

Sedimentation/siltation Agriculture Construction/land development

Waddell Creek, East Branch Nutrients** Municipal point sources Watsonville Slough Pathogens Urban runoff/storm sewers

Source unknown Nonpoint source

Pesticides Agriculture Irrigated crop production Agriculture-storm runoff Agriculture-irrigation tailwater Nonpoint source

Sedimentation/siltation** Agriculture Irrigated crop production Agriculture-storm runoff Nonpoint source

** proposed for de-listing *** proposed for listing


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Quantity and Quality Issues by Sub-basin North Coast Sub-basin Key Projects and Issues in the North Coast Sub-Basin Projects in the Sub-Basin

Project # 11 Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Project # 6 Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas Issues Specific to the North Coast Sub-Basin Streams in the North Coast Watershed Area provide supply for agricultural users, the town of Davenport and of the City of Santa Cruz water supply (25-30% of the total City supply). Groundwater in the area also supplies individual wells and small water companies for rural residents in Bonny Doon and other areas of the basin. City of Santa Cruz year 2020 demand will exceed the safe yield of their system by 1.8 billion gallons (about 5500 acre-feet). The safe yield of their system in a severe drought is 3.3 billion gallons. Present use is about 4.4 billion gallons. Projected growth is 1% a year in demand, and projected demand is about 5.2 billion gallons. Conservation programs are targeted to achieve a 5-10% reduction in use per connection over the long term and between 10 and 15% reduction in short-term use. (SCC, 1996) The amount of water available for use by the City of Santa Cruz from Liddell Spring has been increasingly diminished in recent years by periods of high turbidity and sedimentation. Elevated nitrate is also a concern. The source of these problems may be Bonny Doon Quarry or movement of water through the quarry from sources of contamination above the quarry. The geologic structure of basement rock at the Bonny Doon Quarry, Liddell Spring, parts of Bonny Doon and into UCSC includes a karst limestone system. This geologic system is complex, the pathways of water movement are not easily understood, it is difficult to trace sources of contamination, and water supplies are difficult to predict and manage. Although the elevation of groundwater is significantly below sea level (-100 feet) in the agricultural region along Hwy 1, seawater intrusion has not yet been observed in this basin (Webber-Hayes, 1998). Groundwater alone cannot meet all the agricultural water use demands because of quantity and quality constraints. Agricultural water demand includes use of about 250 acre-feet per year of City water at a subsidized rate (SCC, 1996). Both raw water and treated drinking water are conveyed by the City to agricultural users on the North Coast. Raw water for agricultural accounts is delivered at a unit cost that is 1/4 of what city residents pay.


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Stream baseflows available for fish and other downstream uses have been reduced by water diversions from Scott, San Vicente, Liddell, Majors, and Laguna Creeks.

Water treatment for the Davenport Water system does not meet standards for treatment of surface water and the system is presently under a boil order. The community has not been able to afford the cost of system upgrade.

San Lorenzo River Sub-Basin Surface water from the San Lorenzo River Watershed provides 60-80% of the supply for the City of Santa Cruz system and also is a key supply for the communities of the San Lorenzo Valley. Groundwater from the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin maintains stream baseflows and provides the entire water supply for the Scotts Valley Water District and approximately half of the supply for the San Lorenzo Valley Water District. There are also an estimated 2,200 private wells in the San Lorenzo Watershed. Key supply issues include: In Scotts Valley there is a decline in groundwater elevation of as much as 200 feet

in several areas since the mid-1980’s. Water levels are falling at approximately 20 feet per year, with a variety of related impacts on summer stream flow, groundwater storage, safe yield, and channel conditions.

With reduced water levels in the Santa Margarita Sandstone aquifer, pumping has been shifted deeper to the Lompico Sandstone and Butano Sandstone aquifers. Developed groundwater supplies are not sustainable at present pumpage rates.

Coverage by impervious surfaces of primary recharge areas has reduced groundwater recharge by at least 50% in the city of Scotts Valley and 11% in other parts of the San Lorenzo River Watershed.

Summer stream flows have been further reduced by 15-90% (depending on location) through direct stream diversions for water supply.

The San Lorenzo River is listed as impaired by sediment, pathogens, and nitrate. Major surface water issues in this sub-basin include erosion, sedimentation and urban runoff, as well as fish passage and reduced baseflows. The amount of water available for use by the City of Santa Cruz has been diminished by periods of high turbidity and sedimentation. Water quality impacts from sedimentation impact fisheries and water supply. Localized groundwater contamination by toxic compounds from leaking underground storage tanks and other sources has caused localized degradation of groundwater quality, requiring the use of advanced treatment systems and/or limiting the use of some wells. Options for enhanced recharge projects in the Camp Evers and El Pueblo areas of the Santa Margarita groundwater basin may be limited by groundwater contamination. Septic systems, livestock and nonpoint source urban contamination have increased bacteria levels to 20-50 times and nitrate levels to 5-7 times natural background levels in surface


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water in parts of the watershed, impacting the City of Santa Cruz water supply and recreational opportunities in the San Lorenzo River.4 A wastewater management program is being implemented to address these issues, but upgrades of septic systems to newer technologies are delayed due to the cost and limited resources of many of the property owners. The Santa Margarita groundwater basin is a federally designated, sole source aquifer. At the time of this designation, it was one of only two sole source aquifers in California. In order for an aquifer to be designated as a sole source, it must meet the following criteria: vulnerability to contamination due to hydrogeologic characteristics; significant number of persons or proportion of population using the groundwater as a drinking source; economic, social, and environmental benefits that would accrue to the area from the maintenance of high-quality groundwater; and economic, social, and environmental costs that would result from degraded groundwater quality. The San Lorenzo Watershed had the first watershed plan completed in the state in 1979. The plan is being updated, with the most recent sections completed in 2004. It guides implementation of restoration and enhancement projects. Other significant recent planning and assessment efforts include: San Lorenzo River Erosion Assessment and Prevention Project-Phase II, March

2005 San Lorenzo River Salmonid Enhancement Plan, March 2004 San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update, December 2001 Lower San Lorenzo River and Lagoon Management Plan, January 2002 Erosion Prevention Planning Project for Selected Roads in the San Lorenzo River

Watershed, May 2003 Wastewater Management Plan for the San Lorenzo River Watershed, 1995 San Lorenzo Nitrate Management Plan, 1995 Comparative Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project (in progress) Assessment of Sources of Bacterial Contamination at Santa Cruz County Beaches,

2005 Soquel/Aptos Sub-basin The Soquel/Aptos sub-basin includes the Aptos, Soquel, Arana, and Rodeo watersheds. The area includes the coastal urban areas of Live Oak, Soquel, Capitola, Seacliff, and Aptos. Most of the water supply for these areas is provided by groundwater from the Purisima formation. In the eastern part of the area, the communities of Rio del Mar, Seascape, and La Selva Beach receive groundwater supplied by the Aromas Red Sands aquifer, which extends southeast into the Pajaro basin. Both the Soquel/Aptos and Pajaro Basins are in overdraft.

4 Water Resources Management in Santa Cruz County- Issues Fact Sheet, January 1999


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Other key water supply issues include:

Private wells extract a significant percentage of the total groundwater use from the Purisima formation: estimated private and mutual well production is approximately 2,200 acre-feet/year. However, little data on actual usage and groundwater levels are available for private wells. Total annual production from the Purisima formation by all well operators is estimated at 6,800 acre-feet. This amount is believed to be in excess of sustainable yield by 10-15%. In addition, to active production wells, there are numerous abandoned wells within the Purisima Formation.

Soquel Creek Water District’s current groundwater production is approximately 5,500 acre-feet/year. It is projected to increase to about 6,080-6,800 acre-feet by the year 2050. The District needs to develop 1500 to 2000 acre-feet of new supply to correct the current overdraft and meet future demand. The District’s goal is to limit its groundwater production to 3,600 acre-feet/year from the Purisima and 1800 acre-feet/year from the Aromas.

Soquel Creek is a fully appropriated, adjudicated stream without an assigned water master. The creek appears to be drying up more often now during summer and fall than in previous years, but the causes have not been confirmed (USGS, 1952-1996). There are numerous surface diversions and groundwater levels have been drawn down below the creek level in the lower watershed, creating the potential for flow to be lost from the creek.

Seawater is a threat to City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District wells located in the coastal Purisima Formation, where coastal groundwater levels are at or below sea level. The Aromas aquifer has experienced seawater intrusion in the Pajaro Valley which is in the neighboring region. A long-monitored seawater wedge is moving slightly inland in the Seascape area, threatening several Soquel Creek Water District wells. There is a fairly large inland area where groundwater levels are below sea level, creating a situation conducive to seawater intrusion. Major surface water issues in the Soquel/Aptos sub-basin include erosion, sedimentation and urban runoff, as well as fish passage and reduced baseflows in streams. Aptos Creek is listed as impaired by pathogens and sedimentation/siltation. Valencia Creek is listed as impaired by pathogens and sedimentation/siltation. Soquel Lagoon is listed as impaired by nutrients, pathogens, and sedimentation/siltation, and Capitola and Rio Del Mar beaches are plagued with frequent posting as unsafe for body contact. Watershed assessments and enhancement plans were recently completed for Aptos, Soquel and Arana watersheds. These guide the restoration efforts currently being implemented by watershed groups and the Resource Conservation District’s Integrated Watershed Restoration Program. The recent plans that define problems and solutions are:

Arana Gulch Watershed Enhancement Plan Phase 1: Steelhead and Sediment Assessments, February 2002

Aptos Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Plan, April 2003


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Soquel Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Project Plan, November 2003

Erosion Prevention Planning Project for Santa Cruz County Roads and Roads in the CDF Soquel Demonstration State Forest, Soquel Creek Watershed, June 2003

County of S.C. Stream Crossing Inventory and Fish Passage Evaluation, March 2004

Soquel Creek Water District Urban Water Management Plan Update, 2000 Soquel Creek Lagoon Management & Enhancement Plan Update, June 2004

AB3030 Groundwater Management Plan Soquel-Aptos Area, April 1996 Groundwater Assessment of Alternative Conjunctive Use Scenarios- Draft

Technical Memorandum 2: Hydrogeologic Conceptual Model; Prepared for Soquel Creek Water District, September 2004

The Soquel and Aptos Lagoons are included in the Comparative Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project, in progress.

Investigation of Soquel Creek Stream-Aquifer Interaction: Status Report on Initial Findings on Installation of Shallow Groundwater Monitoring and Surface water Storage State Recording, May 2003

Technical Memorandum, Groundwater Conditions in the Soquel-Aptos Area, 2000 Through mid 2003, September 2003

Investigation of Arsenic-T-Hopkins and Aptos Creek Wells, September 2003

Source Water Assessment of Soquel Creek Water District Aromas Red Sands Aquifer Wells, April 2002

Assessment of Sources of Bacterial Contamination at Santa Cruz County Beaches, 2005

Purisima Wells: Drinking Water Source Assessment and Protection Program Report, December 2002

Watsonville Sloughs Sub-Basin The Watsonville Sloughs system drains a 12,500-acre watershed from the coastal plain and foothills of southern Santa Cruz County into Monterey Bay. The Watsonville Sloughs Watershed includes six individual sloughs: Watsonville, Harkins, Struve, West Branch, Gallighan and Hanson. These are located around the mouth of the Pajaro River. These sloughs sustain large wetland marsh and riparian habitats, economically important agricultural lands, and the fastest-growing area in Santa Cruz County in terms of development. Water supply reliability for both agriculture and municipal use is a concern in the Watsonville Sloughs watershed. Underlying groundwater is part of the larger Pajaro


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Basin, which is overpumped by an estimated 45,000 acre-feet per year. Development in upland areas and agricultural drainage improvements has likely decreased groundwater recharge. Wells as far inland as Harkins Slough have become too brackish for domestic or agricultural use due to seawater intrusion. Groundwater is the primary source of agricultural water supply at this time, though the City of Watsonville is developing a recycled water project, and the Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency (PVWMA) may purchase recycled water from the City to supply coastal farmers. PVWMA has also developed a water supply project in the Watsonville Sloughs area whereby excess winter and spring water is pumped from Harkins Slough and recharged to temporary shallow groundwater storage in the adjacent uplands. Stored groundwater is later extracted and distributed to coastal farmers in the recently constructed coastal distribution system. The yield of this project is relatively low and the ultimate water supply solutions for this sub-basin will be a part of the larger Pajaro Basin integrated regional water management efforts. Figure 1 provides a summary of seawater intrusion in the Pajaro Valley Groundwater Basin. Key supply concerns include:

In the middle and lower reaches of the watershed downward movement of groundwater is restricted by less permeable surface layers and layers of fine sediments that separate the aquifers. There is limited groundwater recharge from the sloughs southwest of Highway 1.

There are portions of three aquifers in the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed. Twelve groundwater wells currently provide the City of Watsonville with approximately 6,600 acre-feet of water per year. Water is also diverted from two creeks north of the City limits.

Exploitation of the shallowest aquifers beginning in the 1930s and 1940s resulted in over-pumping by an estimated 20,000 acre-feet beyond sustainable yield. The current PVWMA Basin Management Plan estimates that, 45,000 AFY are being pumped in exceedence of the safe yield causing 12,000 acre feet of lost water storage per year. 4,000 AFY of this lost water storage is due to falling water levels and 8,000 AFY is a result of seawater intrusion.

Development of upland areas to the west of Watsonville has likely decreased groundwater recharge.

Wells as far inland as Harkins Slough have become too brackish for domestic or agricultural use due to seawater intrusion.

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The Watsonville Sloughs system is listed as an impaired waterbody under the Federal Clean Water Act for elevated levels of pesticides, sediment, oils and grease, metals and pathogens. The area has been significantly modified through channelization, drainage, agriculture and development. In general, the upper Watsonville Slough Watershed is rural residential with associated or minor commercial agricultural land uses. Many dense commercial and industrial uses bound the Sloughs, especially along Watsonville Slough below Ford Street. The lower portions of the tributary sloughs, including Harkins Slough, Struve Slough, and West Branch Slough, are generally open space but in degraded condition. The lower watershed areas are dominated by agriculture. A portion of Watsonville Slough, around the Manabe Wetland Restoration project and downstream, was channelized during the mid-19th century to convey irrigation drainage from adjacent agricultural lands and stormwater runoff from agricultural and urban lands to the ocean. Slough sediment and biota regularly exhibit toxic levels of the banned but persistent pesticide DDT transported by erosion of nearby fields. Other contaminants such as heavy metals are present at times, but do not generally occur at toxic levels. Depletion of dissolved oxygen in the water column, fragmented habitat, structural barriers to wildlife movement and the presence of non-native aggressive species have impacted wildlife. The area is plagued by periodic flooding from slow drainage that affects agricultural production. A conservation and enhancement plan for the Watsonville Sloughs watershed was funded by the Coastal Conservancy and U.S. EPA and completed in January 2003. It guides restoration activities being undertaken by the Resource Conservation District, Watsonville Wetlands Watch, the City of Watsonville, and the County of Santa Cruz through their participation in the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) for Santa Cruz County. Ecological Processes and Environmental Resources The Santa Cruz area is truly a unique part of California. Scientists, particularly botanists, have recognized Santa Cruz County as being an important center for biological diversity. Seven animal species are currently listed as in danger of extinction and at least three species are endemic to Santa Cruz. That is, they occur nowhere else in the world. Although it is only about 0.3 percent of the land area of California, Santa Cruz County contains more than 2.5 percent of the plant species recognized by the California Native Plant Society as rare or endangered in the state. Eight plant species in the county are Federally listed as endangered. Six of the plant species considered to be rare or endangered are endemic. Table 2 presents Federal and State endangered species in addition to species endemic to Santa Cruz County. See Appendix A for a complete table of all Federal and State listed plant and animal species present in the County.


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Table 2 Federally Listed and Endemic Species in Santa Cruz County6

Type Common Name State Status List Date Federal Status List Date Endemic to

Santa Cruz Insects Mount Hermon June Beetle - - Endangered 1997 X Ohlone Tiger Beetle - - Endangered 2001 X Zayante Band-Winged

Grasshopper - - Endangered 1997 X

Smith’s Blue Butterfly - - Endangered 1976 Fish Coho Salmon Endangered 1995 Threatened 1996

Steelhead - - Threatened 1997

Tidewater Goby - - Endangered 1994 Amphibian

Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander Red-legged Frog

Endangered

1971 Endangered Threatened

1967

1996

X

Reptile San Francisco Garter Snake Endangered 1971 Endangered 1967

Birds Marbled Murrelet Endangered 1992 Threatened 1992 Plants Ben Lomond Buckwheat - - Species of Concern - X Ben Lomond Spineflower - - Endangered 1994 X Bonny Doon Manzanita - - Species of Concern - X Marsh Sandwort Endangered 1990 Endangered 1993 Robust Spineflower - - Endangered 1994 Sand Gilia Threatened 1987 Endangered 1992 Santa Cruz Cypress Endangered 1979 Endangered 1987 Santa Cruz Wallflower Endangered 1981 Endangered 1994 X Scott’s Valley Polygonum - - Proposed

Endangered 2000 X

Scotts Valley Spineflower - - Endangered 1994 X White-Rayed Pentachaeta Endangered 1992 Endangered 1995

An endangered species that merits particular attention is the coho salmon. Coho salmon were listed by the State of California in 1995 as endangered south of San Francisco down to and including Santa Cruz County. Santa Cruz County is the southernmost extent of their range. In this planning region, Scott Creek, San Vicente Creek, San Lorenzo River, and Waddell Creek all provide habitat for coho salmon. The San Lorenzo, Soquel, and Aptos watersheds are identified as coho salmon recovery streams, and will be considered for re-introduction when habitat conditions, such as baseflow, passage and water quality, improve. Santa Cruz County watersheds also support populations of steelhead, which were federally listed as threatened on the central California coast in 1997. Steelhead populations in the Santa Cruz County area are moderate to small and are considered low

6 Santa Cruz County Community Assessment Project, 2004; California Department of Fish and Game, Natural Diversity Database, 2004; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Species Lists, 2004.


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compared to historic populations due to human impacts such as urbanization, water diversion, sedimentation and other habitat degradation. The comprehensive population of steelhead in the planning region is currently unknown. Efforts are in place to measure abundance in the San Lorenzo River, Soquel Creek, Arana Gulch, and Scott Creek, but no region-wide monitoring of steelhead exists. San Lorenzo River and tributaries alone support an estimated 1,650-2,500 adult steelhead. In 2001, the Pacific Rivers Council, the Center for Sierra Nevada Conservation, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Jumping Frog Research Institute designated coastal watershed areas in Santa Cruz County as critical habitat for the California red-legged frog. The red-legged frog has been listed as Federally threatened since 1996. Currently, there is a large habitat restoration effort in effect in Santa Cruz County. In the area of habitat preservation, from 2000 to 2004 almost 7,000 acres were protected through acquisition or easement in Santa Cruz County through the actions of public and private agencies. As of 2005, more than 27% of acreage in the County is protected, with 55 acres of open space per 1,000 residents. The County also includes 899 acres of coastal wetlands. Land Use Northern Santa Cruz County is dominated by residential land use, including rural and mountain residential zoning; timber harvest preserve; and a mix of commercial and special districts. The lower portions of the watersheds, close to Monterey Bay, are more urbanized with residential, commercial, light industrial and special districts land use. Upper watershed land use consists predominantly of rural residential, timber harvest preserve and/or open space, some mining, and limited agriculture. On the north coast, the coastal terraces are utilized for agriculture and grazing. Map 6 denotes land cover in the region. Social and Cultural Community Makeup The population of Santa Cruz County is 255,602 according to the 2000 Census. The Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments forecasts that the population will grow to 303,646 by the year 2050. See Figure 2 for a demographic breakdown by ethnicity. In 2000, 49.9% of the county population was male and the remaining 50.1% female. 18.2% of Santa Cruz County residents are foreign born and 27.8% of residents spoke a language other than English in their home in 2000.

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Figure 2 2004 Population by Ethnicity

64%Caucasian

28.9%Hispanic

3.5%Asian/Pacific

Islander0.9%African

American

2.2%Multi-race

0.6%American

Indian

Community Cultural and Social Values How Residents View Water and Environmental Issues Over the past ten years, a consortium of public and private health, education, human service and civic organizations convened by the United Way of Santa Cruz County has sponsored the Community Assessment Project of Santa Cruz County (CAP), a collaborative project to measure and improve the quality of life in Santa Cruz County. The report provides a snapshot of societal, economic and environmental conditions in the County to stimulate dialogue about growing trends and to encourage informed strategies for shaping future policies and effective actions. Data for the report is collected by Applied Survey Research, a nonprofit, social research firm. According to the 2004 report7, the three environmental goals most important to Santa Cruz County residents were to:

1) have a balance between water supply and demand; 2) increase environmental stewardship; and 3) increase and improve open space, wetland, and protected areas.

Residents of Santa Cruz County have an overall sense of awareness of and concern for local environmental issues. Pollution in general was the number one concern followed by water pollution and air pollution more specifically. The next most frequent concern was a lack of preservation of natural environment or wildlife. However, availability/salt water intrusion was ranked low. Volunteering is also a valued effort in the county as 36% of

7 On this issue, the 2004 CAP report relied on data from a 2003 telephone survey.


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people regularly perform volunteer work. As can be seen in the above-mentioned environmental goals, Santa Cruz County residents consider water supply and quality to have high importance. In a separate study conducted in 2004, Soquel Creek Water District customers were asked to identify very serious problems related to local water supplies. The results of this study are summarized in Figure 3.

Figure 3 Serious Problems Related to Local Water Supplies as Indicated by Soquel

Creek Water District Customers8

47%

45%

45%

38%

33%

29%

25%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%

Inadequate water supplies for our future needs

Keeping our water supplies safe and secure

Protecting our drinking water from beingcontaminated by salt water from the ocean

Too many chemicals and other contaminants in thewater

Not enough water conservation

Poor tasting water

Inadequate water supplies for all our needs today

loca

l wat

er p

robl

em

% of respondents expressing a serious concern

Conserving water is an important value for County residents. The extremely low per-capita consumption levels in the City of Santa Cruz most graphically demonstrate this. The reasons customers conserve vary, as shown in the Soquel Creek Water District survey. Forty eight percent of respondents said they conserve water because it is good for the environment, 19% said it is due to the cost of using water, and 25% said to prevent water shortages (see Figure 4).

8 Soquel Creek Water District presentation, 2004. Conclusions of a respondent survey of residents served by Soquel Creek Water District.


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Figure 4 Soquel Creek Water District Residents’ Reasons for Conserving Water9

48%

25%

19%

2%2%2%3%

It's good for theenvironment

to prevent watershortages

water is expensiveand conservingsaves moneymy child broughthome information onwater conservation no opinion

other reason

don't conserve water

Respondents in a 2003 community survey in Capitola were asked to rank the seriousness of local beach conditions; 11% said water pollution was an extremely serious problem, 17% said it was a very serious problem, and 19% said it was a somewhat serious problem. When asked to rank the seriousness of water quality problems in Soquel Creek, 27% said it was an extremely serious problem and 24% said it was a very serious problem. Regional Economic Conditions and Economic Trends The California Department of Transportation, Office of Transportation Economics, prepares statistics for national transportation research efforts and is also involved in various economic and financial research efforts in California. It also directs or participates in the development of advanced economic methodologies and modeling efforts for the state of California. The Office of Transportation Economics prepared an economic forecast for Santa Cruz County in 2004, which summarizes conditions and trends. A portion of the report is excerpted here. The charts and tables are included in Appendix B, and the full report is available for downloads at http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/tpp/offices/ote/Santa Cruz04.pdf

9 Soquel Creek Water District presentation, 2004. Conclusions of a respondent survey of residents served by Soquel Creek Water District.


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Mild weather, natural beauty, a major university, and proximity to the Silicon Valley are elements that contribute to economic activity and the quality of life in Santa Cruz County. With its spectacular coastline, and accessible beaches and mountains, the county is a popular vacation and recreation area. The county is largely dependent upon tourism and recreation, which generate roughly $525 million a year. Agriculture is the County’s second biggest industry. Even though it’s the second smallest county in the state, Santa Cruz County crops were worth $450 million in 2004, giving the county the distinction of ranking among the top 20 most agriculturally viable counties in California. The southern area of the county, including Watsonville Sloughs watershed, is a productive agricultural district yielding strawberries, raspberries, landscape plants, flowers and miscellaneous vegetables. Food processing firms, closely tied to farming, are located in or near Watsonville. North coast agriculture includes Brussels sprouts, strawberries, lettuce and specialty crops. Non-farm industry employment projections have the government, services, and retail trade industries dominating growth over the next 5 years. These three industries, combined, are expected to account for 87 percent of the total growth in employment. By the year 2008, government is projected to add nearly 1,000 jobs, and services should add 3,200. Within services, a majority of the new jobs are expected in information technology. The county’s retail trade industry will add 950 jobs over the five-year period. Employment not directly related to agriculture or tourism, such as computer services, educational services, and electronics-related manufacturing are scattered throughout the county. Economic Forecast Highlights • Non-farm employment will grow 1.1 percent per year between 2003 and 2008. Farm

employment is forecast to grow 0.4 percent per year over the same time period. • Between 2003 and 2008, an annual average of 945 new residential units will be

authorized through the permitting process. • Population growth will slow to 1.0 percent per year between 2003 and 2008. The

natural increase in population is responsible for most of the growth in total population. Net migration will average nearly 400 new residents per year.

• Real per capita income will rise an average 1.7 percent per year over the next 5 years.

The average increase in real per capita for the entire State of California is 2.1 percent over the same period.


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Disadvantaged Communities in the Planning Region City of Watsonville The City of Watsonville (population 44,265) is largely contained within the planning region and qualifies as a disadvantaged community. According to the 2000 census data, the median household income in Watsonville is $37,617. A disadvantaged community is one that has an annual median household income (MHI) that is less than 80% of the statewide MHI, or less than $37,994. Therefore, the residents of Watsonville can be considered “financially disadvantaged,” using the definition in the State IRWMP guidelines. Watsonville comprises almost 19% of the total population of the planning region (237,141).

Other Areas Though Watsonville is the only area that meets the ‘disadvantaged’ threshold as defined by California Water Code, many communities have a high percentage of households earning ‘low’, ‘very low’ or ‘extremely low’ incomes. Table 3 shows the income distribution categories in the County, expressed as a percentage of the County median income ($62,100), as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau10 and the corresponding income ranges for a 3-person household. For example, households earning at ‘extremely low’ levels make less than $15,525, while households earning at ‘very low’ levels earn between $15,525 and $35,397. Table 4 illustrates the large income disparities in the county. Despite fairly high county-wide median income, the table shows large percentages of households in each community in the region who earn ‘extremely low’ or ‘very low’ incomes. Map 7 shows the distribution of these communities in the region. Four communities, including the City of Watsonville, have 15% or more of their 3-person families with ‘extremely low’ incomes, while 10 of the 15 communities have more than 10% of their households in this category. Seven communities have at least one-third of their 3-person households in either the ‘extremely low’ or ‘very low’ income categories, earning less than $35,397, with the City of Watsonville showing nearly half of its families earning below this level. The large numbers of families with such low earnings are due in part to a large agricultural sector with many migrant workers whose earnings are exceptionally low. Finally, six communities have more than half of their 3-person households earning a ‘low’ income ($50,301) or less. Given the extremely high cost of housing described below, the difficulties of these households are exacerbated.

10 Note that these definitions are somewhat different than those commonly used by the County.


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Table 3 U.S. Census Bureau Income Distribution Categories and Corresponding Income

Ranges in Santa Cruz County Based on 2002 Median Income of Three-Person Households

Category

2002 Income Range

Extremely Low Income (0%-24% Median) $0-$15,525

Very Low Income (25%-56% Median)

$15,525-$35,397

Low Income (57%-80% Median)

$35,397-$50,301

Moderate Income (81%-120% Median)

$50,301-$75,141

Above Moderate Income (121%+ Median)

$75,141+

Table 4 Low Income Three-Person Households in Communities Within the Northern

Santa Cruz County Planning Region

Community

Percentage of ‘Extremely

Low’ Income Households a

Percentage of ‘Extremely

Low’ or ‘Very Low’ Income Households b

Percentage of ‘Extremely Low’, ‘Very

Low’, or ‘Low’ Income

Households c Watsonville 15.9% 46.0% 62.8% Twin Lakes 16.6% 44.8% 59.0% Opal Cliffs 16.4% 39.3% 57.3% Felton 15.0% 33.3% 55.2% City of Capitola 13.7% 36.6% 54.6% Live Oak 10.5% 34.8% 52.4% City of Santa Cruz 14.5% 35.1% 49.4% Soquel 12.1% 26.7% 45.8% Ben Lomond 10.2% 27.7% 43.4% Boulder Creek 11.3% 31.6% 42.1% Aptos 8.4% 25.5% 39.2% Day Valley 7.4% 21.2% 36.8% Aptos Hills- Larkin Valley 8.2% 22.3% 34.8% City of Scotts Valley 5.8% 22.8% 34.7% Rio Del Mar 8.0% 19.3% 32.0%

a. Income below $15,625 b. Income below $35,397 c. Income below $50,301

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Cost of Living The situation is made worse for these residents by the extremely high cost of living. Two-thirds of Santa Cruz County households who make below the median income are overpaying for housing costs.11 Santa Cruz County is one of the least affordable housing markets in the nation, ranking #5 among all areas with a population of 500,000 or less.12 It has consistently been in the top five least affordable areas in the United States for the past 10 years. Between the years 1990 and 2002, the median sale price of a single-family home in the County rose dramatically, from $271,000 to $499,934 – an 84.5% increase. By March 2005, the median sale price climbed another 39% to $821,695. The percentage of households able to afford a median-price home was only 12 percent in February 2005. According to the 2000 US Census, 11.9 % of all Santa Cruz County residents live at or below the federal poverty line, and in October 2000, the City of Santa Cruz City Council unanimously passed the nation's highest local living wage ordinance, yet another indication of the region’s extremely high cost of living. Distribution of Projects in Disadvantaged Communities Table 4 shows that every community within the planning region has at least 20% and up to 46% of 3-person households who earn a ‘very low’ or ‘extremely low’ income. Map 8 (page 58) shows that projects are distributed equitably across these communities, and that Project #12 is located in the Watsonville area, which has the highest percentage of households in these income categories.

11 The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines households which pay more than 30% of their monthly income for housing costs, rent or mortgage and additional housing costs, as overpaying for housing. 12 National Association of Home Builders http://www.nahb.org/fileUpload_details.aspx?contentID=34324


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D. Objectives How Objectives Were Determined The agencies participating in the Santa Cruz County IRWMP process agreed early on that it was critical to carefully develop a set of plan objectives which reflect regional priorities and could be used to assess the efficacy of potential projects. Accordingly, the group appointed a three-member Steering Committee (Committee), which, with the help of the consulting team, developed a robust set of planning objectives, which were then adopted by the larger agency group. These objectives were used to classify potential projects as ‘high priority projects’ or ‘potential future projects’. The classification process is described in Section F. This Section describes the development of the objectives themselves. Attributes of Planning Objectives Ability to Discriminate Among Strategies An objective must be able to discriminate among different strategies (i.e. projects). If all strategies perform similarly against a particular objective, it is of no use. Planners should be able to ask, for each individual project, whether the project meets each objective. Understandable and Meaningful to Decision Makers The objectives must extract the information most important to decision makers and be expressed in ways that will be meaningful to them. Reasonable Number The number of objectives must be sufficient to cover the issues that are truly important, and no more than that. Overlap among the objectives (i.e. having two objectives which basically measure the same thing) must be minimized. While there is no “right” number of objectives, it is important to recognize that more objectives introduce more complexity into the analysis and decision-making. Reflect Community Concerns The objectives must accurately reflect the issues that are important to citizens and policymakers. This will ensure that the plan recommendations will do a good job at supporting those concerns. Ends Oriented The objectives must refer to real-world ends, rather than means to achieving those ends. While there are undoubtedly grey areas, the distinction is nevertheless an important one. Precise Language The words used to describe each objective are important. Precision is important to avoid ambiguity and later misunderstandings.


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Plan Objectives Based on these attributes, the Committee developed IRWMP objectives in the areas of:

• Water supply reliability • Raw water quality • Delivered water quality • Habitat restoration and maintenance • Recreation • Public health • Flood management • Regional economic health • Regional collaboration In addition, the Committee determined that projects must meet two implementation criteria: • Readiness to proceed • Availability of funding

The precise wordings of the objectives and implementation criteria were thoroughly discussed, and the final statements of each objective are the product of a thoughtful collaborative effort to ensure that the words reflect regional priorities.

1. Water Supply Reliability Minimize the impact of droughts, production facility failures, or groundwater overdrafts on regional water supplies. Reduce the likelihood of domestic water shortages and any future need to import water from outside the County.

2. Raw Water Quality

Maximize the quality of surface and ground water in the county by addressing sources or conduits of contamination.

3. Delivered Water Quality

Maximize the quality of delivered drinking water as well as reclaimed water for irrigation.

4. Habitat Restoration & Maintenance

a. Aquatic: Restore and maintain habitats to support local aquatic species. b. Terrestrial: Restore and maintain habitats to support terrestrial species of

local flora and fauna. c. Ocean: Restore and maintain habitats to support Monterey Bay marine

life.


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5. Recreation Maximize the recreational value of county water resources.

6. Public Health

Minimize adverse water-related public health impacts in the county. 7. Flood Management

Minimize the adverse impacts of future flood events.

8. Regional Economy Add maximum value to the regional economy.

9. Regional Collaboration

Continue and expand collaboration among public and private agencies to address county water-related challenges.

10. Readiness to Proceed Be prepared to proceed with approved projects in a timely manner.

11. Availability of Funding

Ensure that sufficient local and regional funding is available to move forward with projects.

Appendix D contains information about the relationship between these objectives and the ‘Water Management Strategies’ set forth in the State IRWM Plan Standards, and lists the regional projects that meet those strategies.


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PRELIMINARY SUB-OBJECTIVES TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE IRWM PLAN EXPANSION

As described in Section I, the partner agencies view this IRWM planning process as an opportunity to initiate a longer-term comprehensive regional planning activity. Therefore, they intend to significantly expand the IRWMP. Among other things, the expanded plan will, where appropriate, develop detailed sub-objectives for each of the major objectives described above. As a start to that process, and to highlight the extensive planning that has already taken place in the region, the following set of sub-objectives are drawn from existing planning documents. These will be refined and added to in the IRWM Plan expansion. A complete list of planning documents referenced is included in Appendix C. Objective 1: Water Supply Reliability Minimize the impact of droughts, production facility failures, or groundwater overdrafts on regional water supplies. Reduce the likelihood of domestic water shortages and any future need to import water from outside the County. Sub-Objectives:

A. Investigate and pursue regional approaches and interagency cooperation to correct water deficiencies.

B. Review water rights and monitor streamflow and diversion rates to protect fisheries, recreation and downstream users.

C. Protect and enhance opportunities for groundwater recharge. Enhance opportunities for use of recycled water.

D. Provide comprehensive groundwater basin management. E. Ensure that water supply issues are thoroughly addressed in the review of

development proposals and environmental impact reports.

Objective 2: Raw Water Quality Maximize the quality of surface and ground water in the county by addressing sources or conduits of contamination. Sub-Objectives:

A. Implement a comprehensive erosion control program to coordinate existing efforts and fill critical gaps.

B. Implement septic system management and manure management programs to correct and prevent contamination from septic systems, livestock, and agricultural operations.

C. Update design criteria and general plan policies to implement an urban runoff control program consistent with Phase II of the federal stormwater regulations.

D. Update policies and programs to identify old or abandoned wells that could serve as conduits of contamination to deeper groundwater aquifers.

E. Actively pursue watershed protection and source water protection programs and projects in coordination with the water agencies, land use agencies, and the Department of Health Services (DHS).

F. Develop a regional clearinghouse for water quality data, geographic information and other water resource information.

G. Develop, implement, and support a program to monitor effectiveness of projects.


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Objective 3: Delivered Water Quality Maximize the quality of delivered drinking water as well as reclaimed water for irrigation. Sub-Objective:

A. Ensure that drinking water extraction, treatment and collection facilities meet State and Federal standards.

B. Ensure that recycled water treatment and delivery facilities meet State and Federal standards.

Objective 4: Habitat Restoration & Preservation Aquatic: Restore and maintain habitats to support local aquatic species. Terrestrial: Restore and maintain habitats to support terrestrial species of local flora and fauna. Ocean: Restore and maintain habitats to support Monterey Bay marine life. Sub-Objectives:

A. Implement recommendations in completed watershed restoration and enhancement plans.

B. Conduct watershed assessments and develop restoration plans for other county watersheds. Supplement and update watershed assessments and plans as necessary.

C. Implement the Partners in Restoration permit coordination program and other strategies to assist landowners with habitat restoration projects.

D. Improve coho salmon and steelhead passage to spawning and rearing habitats, particularly in the San Lorenzo, Aptos/Soquel, and North Coast subbasins. Focus on opening up entire reaches or tributaries where feasible.

E. Improve quality of habitats in lagoons. In particular, implement recommendations from the Comparative Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project, the Soquel Creek Lagoon Management & Enhancement Plan Update, the Lower San Lorenzo River and Lagoon Management Plan, and other lagoon-related plans.

F. Restore and expand wetland habitats, particularly in the Watsonville Sloughs basin.

G. Reduce sedimentation into streams, particularly from roads and point sources, per the erosion assessments and local watershed plans.

H. Improve recruitment and retention of large woody material on streams in the North Coast, San Lorenzo, and Soquel/Aptos basins.

I. Create contiguous habitat corridors where possible for migration of species such as the Long-Toed Salamander.

J. Remove non-native invasive vegetation and revegetate with native plant species. K. Support educational and outreach programs such as the Watershed Cruzin’

activity and resource guide. L. Acquire fee title or conservation easements on lands identified in watershed plans

or by resource agencies, when other conservation solutions are not possible. Ensure adequate funding and infrastructure to manage properties and/or monitor easements.


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M. Develop, implement, and support a program to monitor effectiveness of restoration projects.

Objective 5: Recreation Maximize the recreational value of county water resources. Sub-Objectives:

A. Reduce number of beach closures (see Public Health). B. Improve habitat/water quality in county lagoons. C. Provide for more public access to beaches, creeks and lagoons.

Objective 6: Public Health Minimize adverse water-related public health impacts in the county. Sub-Objectives:

A. Implement stormwater management programs, including management of dry weather storm drain discharges.

B. Upgrades sewage collection systems to minimize leaks and overflows C. Upgrade septic systems or extend sewer collection systems to areas subject to

high rates of septic system failure. D. Improve water quality in lagoons. E. Ensure that all water supply systems meet state and federal health standards.

Objective 7: Flood Management Minimize the adverse impacts of future flood events. Sub-Objectives:

A. Promote maintenance and restoration of groundwater recharge and limit runoff rates from new development to pre-development levels.

B. Restore slough systems for improved habitat value and agricultural drainage.

Objective 8: Regional Economy Add maximum value to the regional economy. Sub-Objectives:

These will be identified in the expansion of the IRWM Plan.

Objective 9: Regional Collaboration Continue and expand collaboration among public and private agencies to address county water-related challenges. Sub-Objective:

A. Consider new institutional structures to enhance cooperation among regional agencies in addressing water issues.


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E. Water Management Strategies Water Management Strategies Considered to Meet the IRWMP Objectives The relationship between the IRWM Plan Objectives developed by the partner agencies and the water management strategies defined in the state guidelines was described in the previous section. For clarity, we use the term ‘projects’ to describe the potential means by which these regional objectives can be achieved. Between 2002 and 2004, the agencies reviewed the results of previous planning efforts, examined needs, and assembled a list of 55 potential projects, programs, and plans to be considered. All of these projects are summarized here. The evaluation of these projects against the objectives in order to prioritize them is discussed in Section F, along with more detailed descriptions of projects that emerged as high priorities. The projects listed below have been organized under general headings. However, it must be kept in mind that most of the projects will have benefits in several areas of improved water resource management. The general headings are:

• Water Supply • Recharge and/or Stormwater Management • Water Quality • Wastewater • Habitat Restoration and/or Sediment Control • Management and/or Planning Efforts

Water Supply Projects Carbonero Creek Diversion and Arsenic Treatment Project Diverts water from Carbonero Creek during excess flow periods in winter and spring for transport to an existing treatment plant that removes iron, manganese, and arsenic. Upgrades the plant to meet surface water treatment regulations and pilots the use of membrane filtration for enhanced arsenic removal. Coast Dairies Agricultural Water Supply Identifies potential sites for agricultural offstream water supply reservoirs on the Coast Dairies Ranch, determines amounts of water available for agriculture that will maintain adequate year round stream flow to protect fisheries, and supports infrastructure that will enhance red legged frog habitat. Conjunctive Use Project in Butano Formation, Upper Soquel Creek Watershed Investigates the possibility storing excess runoff for direct treatment and distribution, as well as enhancing regional future water supply.


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Construction of Inter-Tie with Santa Cruz Mountain Mutual Water Companies to Facilitate Future Water Banking Pending results of a feasibility study, this project would connect Scotts Valley Water District with several small mutual water companies in the Santa Cruz Mountains to improve supply reliability and accommodate water banking in the future. Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Replaces the water treatment plant and upgrades transmission lines, water mains and storage facilities in the Community of Davenport to meet drinking water standards and eliminate current boil order. Davenport SCADA Communications Provides a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for monitoring and control of the community’s water distribution system. The SCADA software will provide monitoring and alarm functions for all sites and fully automatic, semiautomatic and manual control of the water system. Davenport Water Management Planning Provides long range planning for management of the municipal water supply for the community of Davenport. Includes supply and demand projections, an examination of needed capital investments, and potential water conservation programs.

Davenport Water Security Provides a water security assessment and improvements to protect the water supply for this small community.

Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project Completes preliminary engineering for the construction of a facility to provide a supplemental source of drinking water for approximately 135,000 Santa Cruz County residents. Final Engineering and Construction of a Regional Desalination Project Provides final engineering and construction for a desalination facility to provide a supplemental source of drinking water for approximately 135,000 Santa Cruz County residents. Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts Valley Area Extends an existing recycled water line to four new areas around Scotts Valley to satisfy major landscaping water demands, reducing pumping in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin.

Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations Installs four to six new groundwater monitoring wells in both coastal and inland locations to monitor saltwater intrusion, improve groundwater management and detect groundwater contamination before it reaches production wells.


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Mañana Woods Water Supply/Water Quality Improvement Project Provides additional treatment for groundwater from the Camp Evers Group’s extraction wells, which remediate a contamination problem. Instead of being released to the creek, water would be pumped to the Mañana Woods treatment plant, treated a second time, and then delivered to the Mañana Woods water customers. Multi-Agency Intertie and Mutual Aid Projects Enhances area security and water supply reliability by increasing Scotts Valley Water District’s and San Lorenzo Valley Water District’s existing 2-inch intertie to a size capable of supplying up to 0.5 mgd to either District in case of emergency. San Lorenzo will also intertie its northern and southern systems; intertie to Lompico Water District; and connect to the City of Santa Cruz. Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project Redistributes municipal groundwater pumping to a new inland location, improving groundwater management especially with regard to seawater intrusion; installs a sanitary sewer line to serve a 62 acre regional park and adjacent neighborhood, installs a municipal water line to serve the park and connects to the existing water system, and implements significant water conservation measures. Satellite Reclamation Plant Project This project will provide water suitable for irrigation purposes through Satellite Reclamation Plants (SRP) within the Soquel Creek Water District (SCWD) service area. Use of reclaimed water from SRPs would reduce local demands for potable water and decrease reliance on the local groundwater basin. Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Establishes the feasibility of a regional groundwater storage project and conjunctive use elements to provide reliable drinking water to the lower San Lorenzo River watershed, and increase baseflow to streams. Land Acquisition for Conjunctive Use Project in Lower San Lorenzo Valley If feasibility studies indicate that a conjunctive use project would provide benefits to groundwater recharge in the study area, then this project would acquire the land necessary to construct the project. Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project Diverts excess high flows of surface water from an unnamed stream to an adjacent sand quarry to recharge the aquifer in the center of the El Pueblo Wellfield.


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Recharge and/or Stormwater Management Projects Enhance and Protect Groundwater Recharge Areas Implement projects, acquire key properties and establish policies and ordinances to protect and restore groundwater recharge. Implement Drainage Infrastructure Retrofit Projects Implements projects identified in drainage master planning and other studies to retrofit culverts and other drainage facilities to provide more natural drainage, groundwater recharge and possible flood control. Regionwide Drainage Master Plan Completes a master plan for stormwater drainage in northern Santa Cruz County that will facilitate compliance with Clean Water Act regulations. Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program Implements priority elements of the countywide stormwater management plan. Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (next phase) Implements priority elements of the countywide stormwater management plan after July 2009. Stormwater Program Asset Management System Enhances an asset management system to provide an up to date inventory of stormwater assets and their condition, to be used in support of pollution management. Stormwater Program Data Management System Develop and implement a data management infrastructure and database tools necessary to provide decision support for watershed and pollution management activities in the coastal watersheds of Santa Cruz County. Update County Stormwater Website Add additional content and functionality to the County Stormwater Water website. Real-time Stormwater Monitoring and Forecasting for Watersheds Develops two key functions needed to improve watershed and coastal water quality and provide the quick-response information necessary for early warning of human health and environmental risks: (1) real-time precipitation, flow and water quality monitoring network based on wireless internet technology supporting the identification of source and impacts, and (2) data acquisition, dissemination, and modeling system to provide this information to organizations and individuals with the responsibility for managing and responding to water quality impairments and risks.


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Water Quality Projects Abandoned Well Destruction Program Identifies and destroys old wells which can act as conduits for contaminants to enter groundwater. Integrated Pest Management/Pesticide Reduction (Phase 2) Reduces the application of pesticides in Santa Cruz County roads maintenance with emphasis on protecting riparian and aquatic areas and improving water quality. Implements successful components of the pilot project which is a component of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program. Wastewater Projects Amesti Road Sewer Improvement Project Constructs gravity and force main sewer system and to replace existing on-site septic systems that serve existing dwellings and a very low-income mobile home park. Constructs pump stations, and replaces sections of an existing downstream sewer system. Boulder Creek Country Club Sewer Replacement Replaces manholes and approximately 4500 feet of 8” gravity sewer lines and approximately 6,200 feet of 4” force main to eliminate frequent sewer overflows. Bowker Road/Freedom Blvd. Sewer Constructs pump stations and sewer system to replace existing onsite septic systems and proposed intensification of land use. Freedom Boulevard Sewer Improvement Project Provides sewer system to replaces existing on-site septic systems for existing residences Greater Pasatiempo Sewer Improvement Project Provides sewer system to replace existing onsite septic systems for existing residences and commercial uses to sewer system. Green Valley Road Sewer Improvement Project Constructs a gravity and force main sewer, pump stations and sewer system to serve existing dwellings, and parallels or replaces sections of an existing downstream sewer system to enable upgrades capable of pumping increase in wastewater resulting from proposed intensification of land use. Lower Manfre Road Sewer Improvement Project Constructs sewer system to replace septic systems that serve existing dwellings


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Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach Moves a main sewer line off New Brighton State Beach to avoid damage to sewer line and sewage spills onto the public beach and into Monterey Bay. Rolling Green Sewer Improvement Project Constructs sewer system to replace septic systems that serve existing residences, school, and commercial uses. San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades Provides grants for individual septic system upgrades in order to reduce the input of nitrates and pathogens into the San Lorenzo River. SCADA Systems for Sanitation Pump Stations Provides a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for monitoring and control of sanitary sewer pump stations. The SCADA software will provide monitoring and alarm functions for all sites and fully automatic, semiautomatic and manual control of the pump systems. This will allow for better prevention and response to sanitary sewer overflows and spills.

St. Francis Sewer Improvement Project Connects existing residences and a school to the sewer system and abandons on-site, private disposal systems. Upper Manfre Road/Valdez Drive Sewer Improvement Constructs a sewer system to serve existing dwellings and future intensification of development. Habitat Restoration and/or Sediment Control Projects Implement Watsonville Sloughs Critical Coastal Areas Plan Implements specific actions identified in the CCA Action Plan for Watsonville Sloughs that will be developed in the IRWMP Update and Expansion. Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase 2) Implements the second phase of a countywide watershed restoration program that emphasizes: water quality and fishery improvements, partnerships and inter-agency coordination, and a non-regulatory approach that encourages voluntary participation. It consists of three main components:

Environmental Restoration Projects Constructs 85-95 sediment reduction, habitat enhancement and fish passage improvement projects that are already designed and have permits. Replaces culverts and other projects on County roads for erosion control and fish passage


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Implements projects on private roads and state parks roads for sediment control

Partners In Restoration Permit Coordination Program Provides a continued, coordinated approach to permits for restoration projects and reduces time and costs associated with permits.

Watershed Education Program and Activity Guide Implements an education program in County schools based on the Watershed Cruzin’ watershed activity guide developed in Phase 1. Provides activities for grades 4-12 to develop students’ understanding of watershed processes and issues.

Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase 3) Continues the inter-agency coordination and review process established in Phases 1 and 2. Constructs or implements projects designed in Phase 2. Watsonville Sloughs Integrated Watershed Restoration Program Restores wetland habitats and natural function in Watsonville Slough by improving the existing system of agricultural and stormwater drainage and other enhancements. This project is a component of a larger Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP), described above, but because it addresses unique issues, it is considered separately. Land Acquisition for Road Spoils Storage Site Acquires a site suitable for permanent disposal of excavated dirt and slide material from road maintenance operations and storm drain repair.

Landslide Stabilization and Dewatering Program Stabilizes cutbanks and other areas with potential to fail that are located adjacent to roads, rivers, and streams. Public Works/Agricultural Nexus Improves road and ditch maintenance practices by the County; develops buffer strips along farm roads; and develops and implements design criteria for road entrances to reduce sediments. Rehabilitate Mill Creek Sediment Basin and Improve Access Replaces and restores a dilapidated sediment detention basin and improves road access for hauling sediment. Ensures clean surface water at a tributary above the Lompico County Water District seasonal impoundment and reduces sediment delivered to Lompico Creek. Residential Erosion Prevention /Assistance Program Provides technical assistance and small grants to homeowners to recommended improvements to reduce or prevent erosion and improve recharge.


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Streambank Restoration and Recovery Program Restores the natural function of streambanks and adjacent riparian areas in watersheds throughout Santa Cruz County. Management and/or Planning Efforts Project Monitoring Establishes a program to evaluate the effectiveness of individual management strategies as they are implemented, as well as the integrated strategy as a whole. This project will be developed and coordinated with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary water quality monitoring program, the RWQCB, and all other ongoing monitoring efforts. Update and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Builds on the initial integrated planning effort by addressing certain planning elements in greater detail. Incorporates additional jurisdictions and establishes priorities for 2007-2010. Completes a Critical Coastal Areas Action Plan for Watsonville Sloughs Watershed. Identifies and prioritizes new and expanded projects. Coordinate with other IRWMP efforts around Monterey Bay.


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F. Regional Priorities The 55 projects identified in Section E were prioritized by evaluating them against objectives developed in Section D in order to identify those projects that are most important to the region. To make this determination, the Steering Committee engaged in a systematic, iterative process with the advice and consent of the larger participant group. The results of this process are shown in Table 5. Based on these evaluation results, the 55 projects were placed into one of two categories: ‘high priority’ projects, and ‘potential future’ projects. A ‘high priority’ project is one that simultaneously meets three conditions:

• It satisfies three or more objectives; and • It is deemed ‘ready to proceed’; and • It has sufficient available local match funding to apply for an implementation

grant. The seventeen projects that meet these conditions are shaded in Table 5. These projects are those that best meet key regional water management needs, and are therefore candidates for current funding. Projects which do not meet one or more of these conditions are classified as ‘potential future’ projects. These projects should be periodically re-evaluated for possible future funding, as new information becomes available and as regional needs change. Table 6 shows the high priority projects. The 17 high priority projects in Table 6 each meet at least three objectives. In addition, they are all ready to proceed by July 2006 and have local match funding available. These are the projects for which implementation grant funding is being requested from the Integrated Regional Water Management Grant Program in 2005. The remaining 38 projects are classified as potential future projects. These projects either meet fewer objectives or are currently not ready to proceed and/or do not yet have available local/federal match funding. No implementation grant funding is being requested for these projects.

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Following are descriptions of the “high priority” projects and the relevant local planning documents that point to their need: Project # 1: San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades Provides grants for individual septic system upgrades in order to reduce the input of nitrates and pathogens into the San Lorenzo River. This project will help finance improvements to the substandard septic systems that drain into the San Lorenzo River, which is a recreational resource and the primary water source for the City of Santa Cruz. The project will result in reduced septic failures and reduction in levels of nitrate and pathogens in the River. Approximately 10% of the existing 13,000 septic systems are on parcels that cannot meet current standards. These will ultimately require the use of alternative technologies or small community sewer systems. Both approaches represent significant cost to the property owners, many of whom are low income. Many property owners defer septic system upgrades until repeated failures. This project will encourage property owners to make early upgrades and greatly accelerate the rate at which upgrades are completed and water quality is improved. The multiple benefits of this project include protecting raw water quality of both surface and groundwater, restoring and maintaining aquatic and ocean/lagoon habitats, protecting public health and promoting regional collaboration. Relevant planning document(s): San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update, December 2001

Loan Program for Septic System Upgrades in the San Lorenzo River Watershed, 2004

Wastewater Management Plan for the San Lorenzo River Watershed, 1995 Sanitary Survey Update for the San Lorenzo and North Coast Watersheds Update,

2001. Draft Turbidity and Pathogen Control Efforts in the San Lorenzo River Watershed

2004 San Lorenzo River Nitrate TMDL, 2003

San Lorenzo Nitrate Management Plan- Phase II Final Report, 1995 Project # 2: Abandoned Well Destruction Program Identifies and destroys old wells which can act as conduits for contaminants to enter groundwater. Many municipal water supply wells are located in agricultural or urban areas, which often have contamination in the upper soil. In January 2002, the County Board of Supervisors directed that a program be developed to identify and destroy abandoned wells in critical groundwater resource areas. The cost of well destruction can be a financial deterrent for property owners, and can even deter them from voluntarily identifying old wells on their


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property. This program will help locate abandoned wells and provide grants to landowners for proper destruction. Project benefits include the protection of water supply reliability and groundwater quality, reduction of nonpoint source pollution inputs and protection of public health. Relevant planning document(s): San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update, December 2001

Status Report on Efforts for Water Resource Protection and Cleanup of Groundwater Contamination in Santa Cruz County, 2002

Strategy for County Water Resources Programs, 2005\ Drinking Water Source Assessment and Protection for Scotts Valley Water

District, 2001 Drinking Water Source Assessment for Central Water District, 2001

Drinking Water Source Assessment for San Lorenzo Valley Water District, 2001

Drinking Water Source Assessment for Soquel Creek Water District, 2002

Project # 3: Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Establishes the feasibility of a regional water storage project to provide reliable drinking water to the lower San Lorenzo River watershed, and increase baseflow to streams. Water levels in the Santa Margarita Aquifer System have been significantly drawn down in the last two decades. This project will establish the feasibility and appropriate approach for using existing sand quarries in the San Lorenzo Watershed for settling and percolation ponds to recharge the aquifer. It will establish energy and materials costs to build a pumping station, and diversion rates of nearby surface waters. This feasibility study will include preliminary engineering for a system to bring clean water into the recharge areas, and a pilot project to treat water. This project is seen as an important integrating link between improved drinking water supply and increased stream baseflows, in a watershed where considerable investment is being made in stream and habitat restoration and where growth pressures are increasing. The multiple benefits of this project include protecting water supply reliability and groundwater quality, improving surface water quality by improving baseflows to streams, flood control and stormwater management benefits, fostering regional collaboration and enhancing the regional economy. Relevant planning document(s): San Lorenzo River Salmonid Enhancement Plan, March 2004 San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update, December 2001

Scotts Valley Groundwater Management Plan and Addendum, July/October 1994 S.V.W.D. Groundwater Management Program, Annual Report, 2003


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Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin Management Plan, September 1993 Water Resources Monitoring and Management in Santa Cruz County, 1998

Strategy for County Water Resources Programs, 2005 Project # 4: Regionwide Drainage Master Plan Completes a master plan for stormwater drainage in northern Santa Cruz County that will facilitate compliance with Clean Water Act regulations. Together with the Flood Control District and Santa Cruz County Sanitation District, the County Department of Public Works proposes to: Complete a hydrologic analysis of watersheds in the County; Complete a hydraulic evaluation of the drainage systems; Look for areas of illicit discharge into storm sewer systems; Conduct analyses for proposed improvements; and Computerize facility management systems.

The public will be involved in the development of the master plan. This project will aid in managing polluted runoff and making improvements for flood control. Relevant planning document(s): Santa Cruz County & City of Capitola Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program,

April 2004 Assessment of Sources of Contamination at Santa Cruz County Beaches, 2005

Project # 5: Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program Implements priority elements of the countywide stormwater management plan. In order to comply with the Clean Water and Porter-Cologne Acts, cities and counties must take steps to reduce the amount of polluted water discharged through storm drain systems into Monterey Bay. A multi-agency plan has been developed to address the six elements of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Phase II Rule: Public Education, Public Involvement, Construction Activities, Post-Construction Activities, Municipal Operations, and Detection and Elimination of Illicit Connections. This project will implement priority items identified in the plan. Multiple benefits include protecting surface and ground water quality, maintaining ocean, aquatic and terrestrial habitats, protecting public health, promoting regional collaboration, and maximizing the recreational value of local water resources. Relevant planning document(s): Santa Cruz County & City of Capitola Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program,

April 2004

Assessment of Sources of Contamination at Santa Cruz County Beaches, 2005


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County of Santa Cruz Implementation Plan for FishNet 4C Goals for County Policies, Planning, and Management Practices, November 2001

San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update, December 2001 Santa Cruz County Stormwater Management Plan

Project # 6: Enhance and Protect Groundwater Recharge Areas Implement projects, acquire key properties and establish policies and ordinances to protect and restore groundwater recharge. The Santa Cruz County Public Works Department will conduct a limited analysis of drainage facilities located in primary groundwater recharge areas in fall 2005, with assistance from a Prop 13 Coastal Non-point Source Pollution Control grant. This analysis will provide a prioritized list of sites and drainage facilities with good potential for modification to enhance groundwater recharge. This project will implement the highest priority projects that may include daylighting culverts, creating grassy swales, use of retention and detention ponds and associated land acquisition either through easement or fee title. County policies, programs and regulations will be reviewed and updated to enhance requirements and incentives for protection of and restoration of recharge during new development and remodel projects. This project will assist in the implementation of those policies. Restoration of groundwater recharge capabilities will also be considered as a means to offset increased demand for water supply for new development. This will increase underground water supplies, increase summer stream baseflows, improve runoff water quality, improve aquatic habitat, and reduce runoff, erosion, and downstream flooding. Relevant planning document(s): Water Resources Monitoring and Management in Santa Cruz County, 1998

Scotts Valley Groundwater Management Plan and Addendum, July/October 1994 S.V.W.D. Groundwater Management Program, Annual Report, 2003

Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin Management Plan, September 1993 San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan, 1979

San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update (Draft), December 2001 Aptos Creek Watershed Assessment

Soquel Creek Watershed Assessment

Soquel Creek Water District Groundwater Basin Assessment and Conceptural Hydrologic Model, 2005

Strategy for County Water Resources Programs, 2005


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Project # 7: Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach Moves a main sewer line off New Brighton State Beach to avoid sewage spills onto the public beach and into Monterey Bay. A main sanitary sewer line is currently located in the sand on New Brighton State Beach in the Aptos Creek Watershed. This line has broken several times in the past, spewing sewage into the sensitive waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and is capable of breaking again. The California Coastal Commission requires its removal. The Sanitation District intends to move the line inland from its present location, and upgrade sanitation facilities for the park and adjacent neighborhoods at the same time. Multiple benefits of this project include maintaining ocean habitats, protecting the recreational value of a popular beach, and protecting public health. Relevant planning document(s): Coastal Commission Staff Report 3-83-119-A3, hearing date: May 11, 2000 Project # 8: Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project Completes preliminary engineering for the construction of a facility to provide a supplemental source of drinking water for approximately 135,000 Santa Cruz County residents. Soquel Creek Water District is entirely dependent on groundwater from coastal aquifers threatened by seawater intrusion. The City of Santa Cruz depends primarily on surface water, and has insufficient water resources to meet demand during a drought. Both agencies are working together to develop an approach to a regional desalination project that would benefit the customers of both utilities. The project would allow Soquel Creek Water District to reduce pumping from the coastal aquifer, and provide dry-year water supply to the City of Santa Cruz. Program-level Environmental Impact Reports for the City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan and Soquel Creek Water District’s Conjunctive Use Alternative will be completed by early 2006. Both of these documents evaluate the regional desalination project. The City of Santa Cruz will construct and operate a pilot plant in late 2005 and 2006. The funds requested for this project provide engineering for a full-scale plant based on the results of the pilot study. Benefits of the project include protecting water supply reliability and groundwater quality, maintaining aquatic and ocean/lagoon habitats, maximizing the recreational value of local waters, protecting public health, and promoting regional collaboration. Relevant planning document(s): City of Santa Cruz Urban Water Management Plan, 2000 City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan, 2004

Soquel Creek Water District Urban Water Management Plan Update, 2000


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Groundwater Assessment of Alternative Conjunctive Use Scenarios-Draft Technical Memorandum 2: Hydrogeologic Conceptual Model; prepared for Soquel Creek Water District, September 2004

Project # 9: Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project Redistributes municipal groundwater pumping to a new inland location, improving groundwater management especially with regard to seawater intrusion; installs a sanitary sewer line to serve the water treatment system, a 62 acre community park and adjacent neighborhood, and implements significant water conservation measures. This project involves converting an existing irrigation well at Polo Grounds Park located in Aptos, adding an iron and manganese treatment plant to meet drinking water standards, and extending the County’s sanitary sewer main to the Park to handle waste from the plant and new park restrooms. The sewer line extension will allow homeowners along North Drive to connect to the sanitary sewer and abandon their septic systems, providing added protection for water quality in adjacent Valencia Creek. The project will provide potable water for the park, which currently has no water service. The final phase of the project involves replacing irrigated turf on six sports fields with synthetic turf. This will conserve water, reduce runoff to Valencia Creek and improve recreational use. Benefits of this project include protecting water supply reliability, protecting water quality of surface and groundwater, protecting aquatic and ocean/lagoon habitats, enhancing public recreation, protecting public health and promoting collaboration between agencies in the region. Relevant planning document(s): Soquel Creek Water District Urban Water Management Plan Update, 2000

SqCWD. and Central Water District Groundwater Management Plan, 1996 Groundwater Assessment of Alternative Conjunctive Use Scenarios-Draft

Technical Memorandum 2: Hydrogeologic Conceptual Model; prepared for Soquel Creek Water District, September 2004

Technical Memorandum, Groundwater Conditions in the Soquel-Aptos Area, 2000 Through mid 2003, September 2003

Source Water Assessment of Soquel Creek Water District Aromas Red Sands Aquifer Wells, April 2002

Capacity Assessment, Well Master Plan EIR, Soquel Creek Water District


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Project # 10: Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations Installs four to six new groundwater monitoring wells in both coastal and inland locations to monitor saltwater intrusion, improve groundwater management and detect groundwater contamination before it reaches production wells. Monitoring wells will be installed in strategic locations identified in a 2004 study. Data from these locations will help document the northward movement of saltwater and changes, both positive and negative, in groundwater storage. These locations are not currently monitored, and data from the wells will be useful to the Soquel Creek and Central Water Districts, County water managers, the City of Santa Cruz, and other neighboring water agencies including Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency. Benefits include ensuring water supply reliability, protecting ground water quality and promoting collaboration among regional water management agencies. Relevant planning document(s): SqCWD and Central Water District Groundwater Management Plan, 1996 Source Water Assessment of Soquel Creek Water District Aromas Red Sands

Aquifer Wells, April 2002 Groundwater Assessment of Alternative Conjunctive Use Scenarios-Draft

Technical Memorandum 2: Hydrogeologic Conceptual Model; prepared for Soquel Creek Water District, September 2004

Project # 11: Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Replaces the water treatment plant and upgrades transmission lines, water mains and storage facilities in the Community of Davenport. Citizens of Davenport are currently under a boil-water order because the water treatment plant at Davenport does not meet new standards for treatment of surface water established by the Safe Drinking Water Act. This project will upgrade the water treatment plant to meet state and federal standards. The delivery system and water tank will also be upgraded to meet state standards for fire protection, and water rights issues will be clarified. Benefits of this project include ensuring water supply reliability and protecting public health. Relevant planning document(s):

County of Santa Cruz Environmental Health Service, Compliance Order No. 2003-01

Project # 12: Watsonville Sloughs IWRP Restores wetland habitats and natural function in Watsonville Slough by improving the existing system of agricultural and stormwater drainage and other enhancements.


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The recently completed Watsonville Sloughs Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan recommends a diverse set of projects to be carried out with willing landowners. These include separating wetland habitat areas from the agricultural drainage system, replacing exotic invasive vegetation with native vegetation, acquiring habitat, and increasing public access and education. The recommended projects will help relieve environmental stressors, buffer wetlands and sensitive areas from land use impacts, and help restore a functional ecosystem within the Sloughs. Multiple benefits include wetland restoration, flood control, stormwater management, surface and groundwater quality improvements, protecting ocean, terrestrial and aquatic habitats, providing public recreation, and promoting regional collaboration. This project will be implemented as a part of Phase 2 of the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program Relevant planning document(s): Watsonville Slough Watershed Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan,

January 2003 Project # 13: Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase 2) Implements the second phase of a countywide watershed restoration program that emphasizes: water quality and fishery improvements, partnerships and inter-agency coordination, and a non-regulatory approach that encourages voluntary participation. The IWRP consists of three main components (for a more in-depth discussion of IWRP, see Section H): Environmental Restoration Projects

Constructs 70-80 sediment reduction, wetland enhancement, and fish passage improvement projects that are already designed and have permits. These projects were identified through watershed or erosion assessments and restoration plans1 and are supported by state and federal resource agencies. The Coastal Conservancy funded plans and permits for these projects in 2003. Projects will be ready for construction or implementation by 2006. A Technical Advisory Committee reviews all projects. in order to identified and prioritized potential sources of sediment and impacts on fish passage. Designs and permits for many of the priority projects have been obtained. This project will fund the implementation of prority projects Improvement of Private Roads and State Parks Roads- Technical assessments of erosion problems on private roads have been completed as a part of Phase 1 and similar assessments are being performed for State Parks roads. Improvement projects to address the priority problems will be completed as a part of Phase 2.

1 Watershed assessments and restoration plans have been completed for Scotts Creek, San Lorenzo River, Arana Gulch, Soquel Creek, Aptos Creek, and Watsonville Sloughs.


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Partners In Restoration (PIR) Permit Coordination Program Landowners are often reluctant to do restoration projects in part due to the difficulty in obtaining permits. The PIR permit coordination system is the first permit coordination program to be developed countywide, as opposed to just one watershed. It will greatly facilitate the number of projects done on private land, provide a continued, coordinated approach to permits for restoration projects and reduce time and costs associated with permits. This program has become a model for other areas of California. The program is implemented in partnership with Sustainable Conservation, and is overseen by the Resource Conservation District and the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Watershed Education Program and Activity Guide

The goal of this project is to increase environmental education in grades 4-12 by making it easier for teachers to use local watersheds as a learning environment. This will be accomplished by implementing the Watershed Cruzin’, activity guide developed in Phase 1 of IWRP. It will include a county-wide environmental education program with teacher trainings and workshops. Watershed Cruzin’ aligns with California education content standards for science, history, and social science.

Relevant planning documents: IWRP Five Year Program Plan, May 2002

Aptos Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Plan, April 2003 Arana Gulch Watershed Enhancement Plan Phase 1: Steelhead and Sediment

Assessments, February 2002 Soquel Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Project Plan, November

2003 Soquel Creek Lagoon Management & Enhancement Plan Update, June 2004

Scotts Creek Watershed Assessment, November 2004

San Lorenzo River Salmonid Enhancement Plan, March 2004

County of Santa Cruz Implementation Plan for FishNet 4C Goals for County Policies, Planning, and Management Practices, November 2001

County of S.C. Stream Crossing Inventory and Fish Passage Evaluation, March 2004

Erosion Prevention Planning Project for Selected Roads in the San Lorenzo River Watershed, May 2003

San Lorenzo River Sediment TMDL, 2004

Draft Turbidity and Pathogen Control Efforts in the San Lorenzo River Watershed, 2004

Erosion Prevention Planning Project for Selected Roads in the San Lorenzo River

Watershed, May 2003


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San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan, 1979 San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update, December 2001

Evaluation of Urban Water Quality (Appendix to the San Lorenzo River Management Plan Update), 2001

Zayante Area Sediment Source Study, 2001 Assessment of Streambed Conditions and Erosion Control Efforts in the San

Lorenzo River Watershed, 1998 San Lorenzo Nitrate Management Plan- Phase II Final Report, 1995

Project # 14: Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts Valley Area Extends an existing recycled water line to four new areas around Scotts Valley, reducing pumping in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin to satisfy major landscaping water demands. Scotts Valley Water District installed a state of the art water recycling facility in 2002 at a cost of approximately $10 million. The facility currently produces 600,000 gallons per day of high quality, tertiary treated wastewater suitable for use in landscaping and irrigation. The system is currently under-utilized, and 350,000 gallons per day are disposed through the City of Santa Cruz Ocean outfall. This project would extend recycled water pipelines into four new areas, which are likely to be: Hocus Pocus Park, Bean Creek, Mt. Herman Road and the El Pueblo Loop. The total reductions in demand are estimated to be approximately 100 acre-feet per year. The project will require approximately 11,600 feet of new pipeline. Multiple benefits include ensuring water supply reliability and restoring and maintaining aquatic and ocean habitats. Relevant planning document(s): Scotts Valley Groundwater Management Plan and Addendum, July/October 1994

S.V.W.D. Groundwater Management Program, Annual Report, 2003 Project # 15: Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project Diverts excess high flows of surface water from an unnamed stream to an adjacent sand quarry to recharge the aquifer in the center of the El Pueblo Wellfield. Scotts Valley receives a relatively large amount of rainfall – an average 43 inches per year. However, impervious surfaces from development cover at least 50% of the natural recharge areas in and around Scotts Valley. This has resulted in documented flash flooding, increased winter streamflows and lowered groundwater levels. Water will be diverted from the creek during excess flow periods, transported to the adjacent old sand quarry, and used to recharge the aquifer in the center of the El Pueblo Wellfield. This wellfield has low levels of naturally occurring arsenic that might be diluted by enhanced recharge. Multiple benefits of this project include ensuring water supply reliability,


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protecting groundwater quality, maintaining and restoring aquatic habitats and minimizing impacts from floods. Relevant planning document(s): Scotts Valley Groundwater Management Plan and Addendum, July/October 1994 S.V.W.D. Groundwater Management Program, Annual Report , 2003

S.V.W.D. Urban Water Management & Water Shortage Contingency Plan, 1999

Project # 16: Project Monitoring Establishes a program to evaluate the effectiveness of individual projects as they are implemented, as well as the integrated strategy as a whole. This project will be developed and coordinated with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary water quality monitoring program, the RWQCB, and all other ongoing monitoring efforts. A series of regional meetings were held in 2004 to coordinate monitoring and identify gaps in current efforts. These meetings led to recommendations for additional monitoring efforts. Monitoring will be implemented to track basin conditions and changes in response to projects and management strategies in order to evaluate the effectiveness of projects and prioritize future needs. A monitoring and reporting strategy will be developed to coordinate existing efforts with the new work proposed here. Monitoring will be conducted in target watersheds and streams in order to characterize channel conditions, sediment accumulation, habitat quality and productivity, water quality, and streamflow and groundwater levels. Where feasible, monitoring will also be conducted before and after implementation of representative projects in order to measure effectiveness of those specific efforts. This has already been initiated as a part of various projects. We have discussed this project with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary water quality program staff, who may potentially oversee this regional effort. Relevant planning document(s): MBNMS Action Plan I: Implementing Solutions to Urban Runoff

MBNMS Action Plan III: Water Quality Monitoring Water Resources Monitoring and Management in Santa Cruz County, 1998

Project # 17: Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Builds on the initial integrated planning effort by addressing certain planning elements in greater detail. Incorporates additional jurisdictions and establishes priorities for 2007-2010. Although the participating agencies have been working together for several years, the initial integrated regional planning effort for northern Santa Cruz County was assembled in a fairly short time frame (November 2004 – June 2005) in response to available state guidelines. The scope of this initial planning effort was constrained by time and funding.


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The participating agencies believe it to be critical that this effort be expanded over the next two years. The IRWM Plan expansion includes several elements: Institutional enhancements, including: exploring possible expansion or

formalization of the collaborative IRWM planning in the region, integrating additional agencies, coordinating with neighboring regions, broadening the stakeholder involvement process, and. A benefit of a regional planning is the establishment or enhancement of inter-personal and inter-agency relationships that will persist long after the formal ‘plan’ is completed.

Developing regional emergency curtailment programs to better deal with future

water shortages. A consistent approach among agencies is easier for the public to understand and comply with.

Improved modeling tools and analytical capabilities, which will allow simulation

of joint operations. This allows agencies to assess benefits and costs of potential projects on a regional basis.

More rigorous impact and process evaluations. These help determine the extent to

which projects achieve regional objectives and enable adjustments. Careful examination of the most beneficial ways to size, sequence, and jointly

operate projects Identification and careful examination of additional projects and/or modifications

of current projects to better meet regional needs in a cost-effective manner, including water conservation, system interties, and exchanges of water.

Development of a Critical Coastal Areas Action Plan for the Watsonville Sloughs

Watershed. Relevant planning document(s): All local planning documents listed in this section.


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G. Linkages Among Projects INTRODUCTION Many of the water resource issues in the region are inter-related, as are the strategies to address those issues. Implementing certain strategies simultaneously or in a coordinated manner creates synergies and effects beyond those of the individual project components themselves, so that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Beyond the obvious relationships of geography, common issues, and common planning documents, projects may be linked in a number of ways, including:

• Enhanced benefits. There can be synergies among projects so that developing them together can result in greater water supply reliability, water quality, environmental, or other benefits than would accrue if projects were planned and implemented separately.

• Threshold effects. In some cases, a single project is not large enough to achieve

a level of impact (e.g. streamflow augmentation) that can produce benefits (e.g. increased fish populations). Combining two or more projects could allow that benefit threshold to be reached.

• Cost reductions. Joint planning and/or implementation of projects may reduce

total costs.

• Pooled expertise. Often, the types of expertise that reside in different agencies complement one another. Joint efforts increase the likelihood of taking best advantage of those diverse skill sets.

• Institutional enhancement. Joint efforts among agencies on multiple projects

often result in improvements in the ability of those agencies to work together on a range of issues.

As discussed below, each project affects one or more of the four major sub-basins in the planning region. Several of the projects have impacts that are region-wide, or nearly so. Map 8 shows the locations of projects in the region. The following discussion will first focus on how these projects work together to address key regional needs. The discussion will then move to the ways that specific projects link with one another to address the particular issues in the two sub-basins (San Lorenzo and Soquel-Aptos) in which multiple projects are implemented. Issues and project locations for the North Coast and Watsonville Sloughs are presented at the end of this section, however linkages are not described because they are adequately covered by the discussions in the San Lorenzo and Soquel-Aptos sub-basins.

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REGION-WIDE ISSUES AND PROJECT LINKAGES Key Regionwide Issues

Current water needs exceed presently available supplies in significant parts of the region. Water is supplied by many different agencies and the activities within the jurisdiction of one agency may significantly affect the available supply of neighboring agencies.

Excessive erosion, sedimentation, and turbidity have severely degraded fish habitat for the threatened coho salmon and steelhead, reduced availability of winter flows for water supply, and caused extensive public and private property damage. Excessive sedimentation is the primary reason for the estimated 70-90% reduction in salmon and steelhead populations that have occurred since the 1960's.

Reduced stream baseflows throughout the region also impact fish habitat for coho salmon and steelhead.

Septic systems, livestock, and small agricultural operations in mountain areas of the county have the potential to contribute bacteria and nitrate to groundwater and creeks. Current impacts are generally low to moderate.

Streams throughout the county are subject to direct diversions by individual water users. The cumulative impacts of these diversions have not been quantified for all streams. Groundwater overdraft has diminished streamflows in the San Lorenzo watershed.

Urban runoff in developed areas has caused low to moderate levels of water quality degradation to streams and lagoons through contribution of bacteria and nutrients. Most urban lagoons are posted as unsafe for swimming year round due to bacteria levels. Other contaminants such as heavy metals are elevated at times, but do not appear to be causing adverse impacts.

Urban runoff, including sewer leaks and overflows in urban areas causes significant bacterial (pathogenic) contamination to streams and the ocean during storm events, resulting in threats to public health and designation of beaches as being unsafe for swimming during and after storm periods.

The lack of large woody material in county streams reduces sorting of sediment and greatly diminishes habitat value.

Culverts, road crossings and old dams on many streams impede fish migration, particularly during years with lower flows. Wetlands have been reduced and the remaining habitat degraded in urban and agricultural areas of the county.


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Key Regionwide Linkages Six high-priority projects are region-wide in their impacts: Project # Project Name

2 Abandoned Well Destruction Program 4 Regionwide Drainage Master Plan 5 Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program 13 Integrated Watershed Restoration Program 16 Project Monitoring 17 Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan

Table 7 displays the objectives met by these projects. As described in Section F, Projects 16 and 17 provide a critical underpinning to effectively achieve all objectives. Without the ongoing and systematic monitoring of all projects and the continuation and expansion of the regional planning effort, the likelihood of maximizing the degree to which regional objectives are met is substantially reduced. The following discussion will focus on the synergies among these projects by discussing the way in which they further particular regional objectives. OBJECTIVE 1: Water Supply Reliability As described in Section C, and as documented in recent water supply planning efforts,1 current water needs exceed presently available supplies in significant parts of the region, making water supply reliability a critical concern. Groundwater overdraft, reduced baseflows to streams, seawater intrusion and other threats to raw water quality are primary, related issues. Reducing sediment load and turbidity reduces impacts on diversion structures, reduces treatment costs, and increases the availability and suitability of high winter flows for water supply use. Reducing accelerated runoff, erosion and sedimentation enhances infiltration and contributes to groundwater recharge Projects #2 and #5, the Abandoned Well Destruction Program and the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, both reduce the likelihood of contamination of aquifers and surface waters by pollutants. The Abandoned Wells project will destroy wells that can act as direct conduits for pollutants to enter the groundwater. The Stormwater Pollution Prevention project will reduce inputs of a wide variety of pollutants contained in urban runoff. These pollutants could ultimately contaminate surface water and groundwater and jeopardize water supply reliability.

1 City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan ; Soquel Creek Water District Urban Water Management Plan Update (2000); San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan Update (December 2001); Soquel Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Project Plan (November 2003); Soquel Creek Lagoon Management & Enhancement Plan Update (June 2004)

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Project #4, the Region-wide Drainage Master Plan, will identify and prioritize additional modifications that can be made to the stormwater drainage system to further enhance groundwater recharge. As previously described in Section E, Project #13, the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase 2) is a multi-faceted program that addresses virtually all planning objectives. In the area of water supply reliability, the IWRP will construct recharge enhancement projects, and high priority erosion/sediment and drainage control projects on roads and private lands. Roads have been identified as the primary cause of sedimentation in the watershed assessment and enhancement plans. Reducing accelerated runoff, erosion and sedimentation enhances infiltration and contributes to groundwater recharge. Reducing sediment load and turbidity reduces impacts on diversion structures, reduces treatment costs, and increases the availability and suitability of high winter flows for water supply use. OBJECTIVE 2: Raw Water Quality As recent water quality assessments have demonstrated,2 raw water quality for both ground and surface waters is a critical concern for all agencies with water management responsibilities in the region, as well as their customers and stakeholders. A March 2005 report by the County of Santa Cruz Health Services Agency summarized major water quality issues affecting county residents. With regard to groundwater quality, Project #2 (Abandoned Well Destruction Program) will eliminate conduits for contamination of groundwater and Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) will reduce inputs of a wide variety of pollutants contained in urban runoff. The Integrated Watershed Restoration Program - Phase 2 will improve groundwater quality by reducing accelerated runoff and increasing recharge and infiltration. Surface water quality issues are well-studied and documented in the region. Sedimentation from erosion, primarily related to roads, is identified as the most significant factor contributing to the deterioration of salmon and steelhead habitat. Excessive erosion, sedimentation, and turbidity have also caused extensive public and private property damage and also reduced availability of winter flows for water supply. The Regionwide Drainage Master Plan (Project #4) will identify and prioritize additional modifications that can be made to the stormwater drainage system to enhance surface water quality. The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (Project #5) also addresses urban water quality, illicit discharges to storm drains, dumping in storm drains, erosion control and domestic use of pesticides and herbicides. Key objectives of Project #13 (IWRP– Phase 2) are to reduce sediment inputs, reduce polluted runoff, and raise awareness of the importance of proper road design and 2 Soquel Creek Groundwater Management Plan (1996); S.V.W.D. Groundwater Management Program, Annual Report (2003); County Water Resources Report 2004


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maintenance for watershed protection. The IWRP will construct erosion and drainage control, wetland restoration, and vegetative treatments and fish passage improvement projects. In addition, a cost-share program for drainage and road improvements will fix erosion and drainage problems associated with non-county roads. IWRP also includes a permit coordination program and watershed education activity guide and elementary education program. Education efforts will improve surface water quality by addressing pollution at its source and by preventing pollution. Permit coordination will accelerate the pace of water quality improvement projects. OBJECTIVE 3: Delivered Water Quality Among the regionwide projects, Projects #16 (Project Monitoring) and Project #17 (Upgrade and Expand IRWMP) meet this objective. Project #16 will monitor the quality of delivered water as the suite of projects is implemented, and results of this effort will be used in Project #17. Project #17 includes improved tools and analytical capabilities and additional projects and/or project modifications that could improve water quality. OBJECTIVE 4: Habitat Restoration & Maintenance According to the EPA, sedimentation is the single largest contributor to pollution of our nation's rivers. In Santa Cruz watersheds it affects aquatic and terrestrial wildlife habitats, alters streamflows, and reduces biodiversity. It ultimately may smother aquatic habitats and bottom-dwelling organisms in Monterey Bay. It reduces water quality and can clog estuaries and harbors, often resulting in expensive remediation. Aquatic Habitats Project #13 (IWRP - Phase 2) directly tackles erosion and sedimentation problems by constructing many erosion and drainage control projects, and implementing a cost share program to improve drainage and reduce erosion on private roads.3 The project also includes wetlands restoration and fish passage improvements, such as barrier removals. Project #4 (Regionwide Master Drainage Plan) helps achieve the aquatic habitat objective by identifying new ways to improve baseflow to streams and addressing groundwater recharge. It may also create or enhance additional aquatic habitats. It will identify additional drainage facilities such as culverts and channels which may be suitable for retrofit to accommodate more natural drainage and habitat values. Furthermore, as discussed under the Flood Management objective, it may identify measures to reduce erosion and scour (habitat degradation) associated with flooding. The pollution prevention outreach developed in Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) will raise awareness of the impacts of pollution. The effort to reduce pesticide use through this program is particularly relevant to the aquatic habitat objective. 3 The 4D Rules of the Federal Endangered Species Act for steelhead and coho salmon refer to Best Management Practices for road maintenance.


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Common environmental repercussions of stormwater pollution include death of aquatic plants and animals, toxic algal blooms and stagnant waters. The efforts to reduce pesticide use and control erosion through this program are particularly relevant to the aquatic habitat objective. Terrestrial Habitats Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) will pilot a project to reduce pesticide use, as well as implement many strategies to reduce inputs of trash and other pollutants. Its previously discussed emphasis on erosion control will also enhance terrestrial habitats. Project # 13 (IWRP – Phase 2) includes restoration of riparian corridors and wetlands as well as a Permit Coordination Program and watershed activity guide and education program. The permit coordination program included in this project also applies to any terrestrial restoration projects. The watershed activity guide and outreach program will cover terrestrial habitats. Ocean Habitats Polluted runoff can be a contributor to harmful algal blooms. A harmful bloom of the diatom species Pseudo-nitzschia australis was identified as the culprit when more than 400 sea lions died and many more suffered from domoic acid poisoning on California's Central Coast in 1998. Contaminants can accumulate in marine species including mammals and edible fish, shellfish. Sedimentation smothers benthic habitats. Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) will reduce the flow of pollutants into the National Marine Sanctuary, including sediments, nutrients, bacteria, other pathogens and constituents of urban runoff. The pollution prevention outreach developed in this project will also raise awareness of the impacts of pollution on wildlife. Project # 13 (IWRP – Phase 2) addresses water quality issues (as described above) that can affect ocean habitats, and improves fish passage to help perpetuate the health of anadromous fish populations. Finally, a major component of Project #17 (Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan) is the enhancement of the region’s Critical Coastal Areas (CCA) program. This will result in important benefits to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary by creating an Action Plan for the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed to address impacts from non-point source pollution. OBJECTIVE 5: Recreation The most prominent recreation uses in the region are swimming, fishing, surfing, viewing scenery, viewing wildlife, mountain biking, hiking, and camping. Urban runoff has degraded water quality in the rivers, tributaries, estuaries and beaches through contribution of bacteria and nutrients. This leads to beach closures and warnings.


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Erosion and sedimentation affect recreation with impacts to fisheries and benthic habitats. Unstable banks not only contribute to erosion, but also impede public access. Opportunities for viewing wildlife are diminished as habitats are impaired. The habitat benefits of Projects #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) and Project #13 (IWRP – Phase 2) described above simultaneously enhance recreational opportunities for the county’s residents. OBJECTIVE 6: Public Health Public health issues related to integrated water management in the region include beach water quality, stream water quality, sewage overflows from septic systems or inadequate sanitary sewers, inadequate water supply treatment facilities, vector control for West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, introduction of contaminants into aquifers, and polluted runoff entering creeks, streams and other waterbodies. Polluted runoff is also potentially linked to harmful algal blooms that can pose significant threats to public health through contamination of fish and shellfish as well as produce chemicals that are toxic to humans and aquatic life. Harmful bloom events are becoming more common off the California coastline, and many researchers believe that urea in urban and agricultural runoff may play a greater role than previously thought in triggering or sustaining these blooms. Project #2 (Abandoned Well Destruction Program) protects public health by reducing pathways for contaminants to enter groundwater. It also provides a public safety benefit by identifying and destroying abandoned wells. Poorly designed or inadequate drainage can lead to stagnant water, which can breed mosquitoes and other vectors of disease. This issue will be considered in Project #4 (Regionwide Drainage Master Plan), and incorporated into planning efforts. Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) protects public health by reducing inputs of potentially harmful contaminants. The NPDES Phase II rule establishes a framework that helps protect public health by preventing runoff that pollutes swimming waters and contaminates seafood caught by recreational, commercial, and subsistence anglers. One of the main objectives of Project #5 is to address pollution at the source through education. Links between pollutants from runoff, harmful algal blooms and public health are currently being explored. Beach-water quality monitoring reports documented storm water runoff as the source for at least 30% of reported beach closings nationwide in 1998. Public health benefits from Project #13 (IWRP – Phase 2) in the region include protection of public health by reducing inputs of potentially harmful contaminants, and implementation of projects to improve water quality and drainage.


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OBJECTIVE 7: Flood Management This objective seeks to minimize the adverse impacts of future flood events. Santa Cruz County is subject to both coastal flooding and flooding from major winter storms. Low-lying areas have been repeatedly affected. Flooding has potential to cause economic hardship to residents and businesses and agriculture, public health problems from water and wastewater infrastructure failures, loss of aquatic habitats from degradation and scour, exacerbated erosion problems from bank and culvert failures, and increased water pollution through mobilization of additional non-point source pollutants including trash and hazardous materials. When culverts fail, erosion and flooding are greatly accelerated. Over 50% of flood related damage in Santa Cruz County in 1997 could be attributed to culvert failures. Project #4 (Region-wide Drainage Master Plan) will identify flood-prone areas, management tactics and improvements that can be made to lessen risks to lives and property. Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) includes public outreach to reduce erosion, which is associated with culvert failures and flooding. Project #13 (IWRP – Phase 2) replaces or improves cross culverts and stream crossings. In addition, the erosion prevention efforts described previously under the Surface Water Quality objective contribute to flood management in the region by reducing accelerated runoff and erosion. OBJECTIVE 8: Regional Economy Maximum value is added to the regional economy when there is both adequate supply and good water quality. Just as early day industries were controlled by the presence of water for transport of goods and use in production, businesses today need assurance that sufficient water resources exist to maintain operations and modest growth into the future. High–tech industries such as chip manufacturers often require high quality water as well. Because of its proximity to Silicon Valley, the region has many technology-based industries. It also provides housing for Santa Clara County, and one worker in six commutes to Silicon Valley. Some state economists consider Santa Cruz County to be a part of the greater Bay Area because of this relationship. The 2001 City of Santa Cruz Water Curtailment Study4 documented the severe economic and non-economic hardships that would accrue to residents and businesses as a result of future water shortages. Therefore, since they all improve water supply reliability in the region, each of the region-wide projects also contributes to the region’s economic health. In addition, the water quality impacts of two projects help the region’s economy:

4 Santa Cruz Water Department: Water Curtailment Study. Gary Fiske and Associates. February 2001


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Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) yields a broad spectrum of environmental and community benefits including, but not limited to, public health, fisheries enhancement, protection of groundwater and drinking water, wildlife protection, aesthetics, and recreation. In many cases, these types of programs also have a significant economic advantage.5 For example, many people come to beaches in north Santa Cruz County because they are perceived as clean, safe and inviting places. Project #13 (IWRP – Phase 2) addresses many water quality issues as previously discussed, and also helps to support recreational activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and wildflower viewing, which in turn help support the regional economy. It adds value to the regional economy by implementing water quality improvements and in particular by addressing sedimentation and erosion. Sedimentation reduces water quality and threatens the water supply and fisheries habitat. OBJECTIVE 9: Regional Collaboration Collaboration on some projects has been ongoing for several years; other collaborations have emerged through the Integrated Regional Water Management planning process, and a few will occur in the future as information from the various efforts is shared and next steps are prioritized. Santa Cruz County Water managers meet monthly to share information. Several of the managers have been colleagues for decades, and key managers, commissioners, Board members and water resources staff from the various agencies have moved between agencies over the years, or wear “multiple hats,” by serving on Boards, task forces or advisory committees. To implement Project #2 (Abandoned Well Destruction Program), County water managers will work closely with the water districts to complete an inventory of abandoned wells, and prioritize wells for destruction in order to gain maximum value in terms of protecting water supply. One of the cornerstones of Project # 13 (Integrated Watershed Restoration Program – Phase 2) is interagency communication and coordination on implementing high priority restoration and enhancement projects as identified in the various watershed assessment and enhancement plans. A technical advisory committee composed of staff from the Regional Water Quality Control Board 3, the Department of Fish and Game, Coastal Conservancy, Coastal Commission, NOAA Fisheries, Army Corps of Engineers, US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, the Resource Conservation District, and the County of Santa Cruz oversee the identification, design, permitting, and implementation of IWRP restoration projects. Established in Phase I, this committee has already produced many innovations and mutual benefits that would not have resulted without the collaborative aspect of IWRP. In addition, IWRP has developed a permit coordination program for Santa Cruz County to facilitate implementation of high priority restoration and enhancement projects using the same collaboration of agencies listed above. It is the first countywide permit coordination program developed in the State of California. 5 Stormwater Strategies: Community Responses to Runoff Pollution, NRDC, May 1999.


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Projects 16 and 17 (Project Monitoring and Upgrade and Expand IRWMP) both rely heavily on inter-agency cooperation and require such collaboration to take place. As described above, one of the key benefits of ongoing regional planning efforts is often new or enhanced inter-agency collaboration which persists long after the formal ‘plan’ has been completed. BASIN-SPECIFIC LINKAGES In addition to the region-wide project linkages discussed above, there are important linkages specific to each sub-basin. Map 9 shows the locations of projects in the San Lorenzo Sub-basin. Key Issues in the San Lorenzo Sub-Basin 1. The San Lorenzo River Watershed provides surface water supply for the City of

Santa Cruz system (60-80% of its supply) and for the communities of the San Lorenzo Valley. Groundwater from the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin (Santa Margarita Sandstone and Lompico Sandstone aquifers) maintains stream baseflows and provides the entire water supply for the Scotts Valley Water District and approximately half of the supply for the San Lorenzo Valley Water District. Groundwater also supplies an estimated 2200 private wells in the San Lorenzo Watershed. The Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin is federally designated as a Sole Source Aquifer or principal source of drinking water for the Scotts Valley area.

2. Since 1986, groundwater levels have declined by up to 150 ft., significantly reducing

water levels in the Santa Margarita Sandstone Aquifer (in the Pasatiempo Unit, and Camp Evers areas), reducing baseflow in Bean Creek, Carbonera Creek, and the San Lorenzo River; and reducing available water supplies for San Lorenzo Water District, Scotts Valley Water District, Mt Hermon, and the City of Santa Cruz.

3. With a reduction of water levels in the Santa Margarita Sandstone aquifer, pumping

has been shifted deeper to the Lompico Sandstone and Butano sandstone aquifers. Declining groundwater levels, reduced streamflow, and updated groundwater modeling all indicate that current rates of groundwater pumping are not sustainable and exceed safe yield in the overall basin and within several individual subbasins. The safe yield and the amount of total groundwater withdrawal are currently under re-evaluation, and will be better defined by January 2006.

4. It is estimated that coverage by impervious surfaces of primary recharge areas has

reduced groundwater recharge by at least 33% in the city of Scotts Valley and 11% in other parts of the San Lorenzo River Watershed.

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through direct stream diversions for water supply. 6. Localized groundwater contamination by toxic compounds from leaking underground

storage tanks and other sources has degraded groundwater quality, requiring the use of advanced treatment systems, and limiting the use of some wells. Options for enhanced recharge projects in the Camp Evers and El Pueblo areas of the Santa Margarita groundwater basin may be limited by groundwater contamination. Current plans and activities relative to groundwater cleanup have been addressed in some areas, i.e., Watkins-Johnson, however, additional, ongoing efforts are required.

7. Septic systems, livestock and nonpoint urban contamination have increased bacteria

levels by 20-50 times and nitrate levels by 5-7 times in parts of the San Lorenzo River, threatening the City of Santa Cruz water supply and recreational opportunities in the San Lorenzo River (SCCHSA, 1995).

8. Roads have been identified as the number one sediment source for the San Lorenzo

Watershed. 9. Culverts, road crossings and old dams impede fish migration, particularly during years

with lower flows. 10. Loss of lagoon habitat due to development and urban runoff has reduced rearing

habitat for fish and has resulted in poor water quality. The Santa Cruz Main Beach is periodically posted as unsafe due to high bacteria levels.

11. As demands grow over the next 20-30 years, water shortages for the City of Santa

Cruz system are projected to become the norm, even under so-called ‘average’ hydrologic conditions. City of Santa Cruz year 2020 demand will exceed the safe yield of their system by 1.8 billion gallons (about 5500 acre-feet). The safe yield of their system in a severe drought is 3.3 billion gallons. Present use is about 4.4 billion gallons. Projected growth is 1% a year in demand, and projected demand is about 5.2 billion gallons. Conservation programs are targeted to achieve a 5-10% reduction in use per connection over the long term and between 10 and 15% reduction in short-term use. (SCC, 1996)


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Map 9 - Projects in the San Lorenzo Sub-basin


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Key Linkages in the San Lorenzo Sub-Basin In addition to the six region-wide projects already discussed, there are six additional high priority projects that will be implemented in this sub-basin. Table 8 shows the objectives to which each of these six contributes. OBJECTIVE 1: Water Supply Reliability As discussed above, region-wide projects #2, 4, 5, and 13 help improve water supply reliability in this sub-basin. In addition, the following basin-specific projects also enhance reliability: Projects # 3 (Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge), 6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas), and 15 (Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project) implement or establish the feasibility of implementing large-scale and smaller-scale recharge projects throughout the groundwater basin. Together, they will significantly improve the condition of the aquifer, optimize future water supplies, and enhance water quality and habitats. Expertise will be pooled from multiple agencies including the County of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley Water District, and City of Santa Cruz Water Department yielding better results and lower costs. For example, County Hydrologist Mike Cloud, as project manager for the Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge project, will continue to give highly technical input to Scotts Valley Water District’s groundwater management program. Simultaneous implementation of the recharge projects may also result in some cost savings. Project #14 (Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts Valley Area) will reduce pumping in the aquifer, and decrease the burden on surface sources, by providing recycled water for major landscaping and irrigation needs. Project #8 (Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project) improves water supply reliability for the City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District by completing the preliminary engineering on a regional desalination facility. The City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan concluded that a desalination facility is a critical component of continuing to provide reliable water supplies, particularly during drought. OBJECTIVE 2: Raw Water Quality Region-wide projects #2, 4, 5, and 13 will help improve water quality in this sub-basin. In particular, Project # 13 (Integrated Watershed Restoration Program – Phase 2) will construct 4-12 erosion control and fish passage improvement projects on key tributaries of the San Lorenzo River. In addition, the project includes erosion control and culvert replacements for fish passage on County maintained roads.

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In addition, the IWRP includes a cost-share program for drainage and road improvements to fix erosion and drainage problems associated with private roads and state parks roads in order to reduce sedimentation. These latter projects are located in Kings Creek, Gold Gulch and Lompico Creek sub watershed areas. These efforts will reduce polluted runoff, and focus awareness of the importance of proper road design and maintenance for watershed enhancement and protection. The following basin-specific projects also enhance water quality: Project #1 (San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades) protects surface and groundwater quality by replacing failing inadequate septic systems for low-income residents in areas with documented problems with nitrate and bacterial contamination of both surface and/or groundwater. Projects # 3 (Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge), 6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas), and 15 (Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project) protect and improve groundwater quality by providing additional recharge in different areas of the Santa Margarita Groundwater basin. In addition, the Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project is expected to dilute naturally occurring arsenic concentrations. Information about recharge characteristics, project design and effectiveness may be transferable between the three efforts, resulting in some cost savings, and expertise will be pooled between project proponents. Project #6 will also establish and implement County ordinances and on-the-ground improvements to the stormwater drainage system to protect groundwater quality. Sample ordinances might require permeable pavement in primary groundwater recharge areas. On-the ground improvements are likely to include retrofit of drainage systems to utilize more grassy swales, retention ponds and similar, more natural processes to remove pollutants and increase infiltration. OBJECTIVE 4: Habitat Restoration & Maintenance The Habitat Restoration and Maintenance objective addresses aquatic, terrestrial and ocean habitats. Aquatic habitats in the sub-basin include the San Lorenzo River and its many tributaries as well as small wetlands. Key terrestrial habitats include riparian corridors, redwood forests and the Zayante sandhills6 - a biologically rich and rare habitat found only in this area of Santa Cruz County. Ocean habitats include the San Lorenzo River estuary and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The San Lorenzo River watershed has a sediment control plan,7 which addresses sedimentation associated with roads, and several studies8 have identified sedimentation

6 Protection of sandhills habitats is identified as a priority in the Recovery Plan for Insect and Plant Taxa of the Santa Cruz Mountains (USFWS, 1998), and in the listings of the endangered species. 7 Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL, 2002) Implementation Strategy


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from roads as being the largest single contributor to the decline of steelhead and salmon runs in the watershed. The San Lorenzo watershed is identified as a coho salmon recovery stream, and will be considered for re-introduction when habitat conditions improve (CDFG, 1998). In 2001, the river supported an estimated 1,650-2,500 adult steelhead, a low number compared to historic populations. Aquatic Habitats As discussed above, region-wide projects #4, 5, and 13 help improve aquatic habitats in this sub-basin. In particular, Project #13 (IWRP - Phase 2) directly tackles the erosion and sedimentation problem by constructing up to 14 high-priority erosion control and habitat enhancement projects in Kings Creek, Gold Gulch and Lompico Creek, and implementing a cost share program to improve drainage and reduce erosion on private roads9. The project also includes up to four fish passage improvements, such as barrier removals. Several of the components of the IWRP in this sub-basin were identified in the San Lorenzo Assessment and Enhancement Project Plan, Fish Crossing Study and the Erosion Risk Assessment completed by the Department of Public Works. In addition, Projects # 3 (Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge), #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas), #14 (Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts Valley Area) and #15 (Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project) may enhance aquatic habitats by improving baseflow to streams by groundwater recharge. Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) may also create or enhance additional aquatic habitats. Terrestrial Habitats As discussed above, region-wide projects #5 and 13 help improve terrestrial habitats in this sub-basin. Specifically, Project # 13 (IWRP – Phase 2) will help implement projects that will stabilize stream banks, remove invasive vegetation, and improve riparian corridors. In addition, the following basin-specific projects enhance the terrestrial habitat: Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) is the basin-specific project that benefits terrestrial habitats most directly. This project may include acquisition of key properties for the purposes of enhancing groundwater recharge. These are likely to also have habitat values. Ocean Habitats As discussed above, region-wide projects #5, 13 and 17 help improve ocean habitats in this sub-basin.

8 San Lorenzo River Watershed Management Plan (updated December 2001); Salmonid Enhancement Plan (2002); FishNet4C implementation plan for the recovery of salmon and steelhead habitat. 9 The 4D Rules of the Federal Endangered Species Act for steelhead and coho salmon refer to Best Management Practices for road maintenance, including proper storage of road spoils.


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OBJECTIVE 5: Recreation The most prominent recreation uses associated with the San Lorenzo Watershed are swimming, fishing, surfing, viewing scenery, viewing wildlife, mountain biking, hiking, and camping. As discussed previously, urban runoff has degraded water quality in the river, tributaries, estuary and adjacent beaches through contribution of bacteria and nutrients. The San Lorenzo River Estuary Lagoon is unsafe for swimming year round due to high bacteria levels; Main and Seabright Beaches, popular beaches near the mouth of the River, are posted with public health advisories several times each year. Contaminants such as heavy metals are elevated and have been measured at toxic levels at times during storm events. These may accumulate in fish, shellfish and bottom sediments, affecting both recreation and public health. Erosion and sedimentation affect recreation with impacts to fisheries, including effects on benthic habitats. There are many natural swimming areas used by the public located directly on the river and its tributaries. Unstable banks not only contribute to erosion, but also impede public access. Opportunities for viewing wildlife are diminished, as habitats are impaired. The San Lorenzo River and its tributaries provide some of the few remaining opportunities for steelhead fishing in Santa Cruz County. As discussed above, region-wide projects #5 and 13 protect and enhance recreation in this sub-basin. In addition, Project #1 (San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades) directly benefits recreation by reducing the frequency of septic system failures, improving bacteriologic quality and reducing posting of swimming areas in the River. OBJECTIVE 6: Public Health As discussed above, region-wide projects #2, 4, 5, and 13 contribute to protecting public health in this sub-basin. In addition, the following basin-specific projects contribute to improving public health: Project #1 (San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades) directly benefits public health by providing a cost-share program for low-income residents to replace sub-standard septic systems. Project #8 (Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project) has a direct link to public health and safety as described in the City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan. Without development of a drought-proof source of additional supply, health and safety end-uses will experience shortages in even moderate drought conditions. These uses include residential interior, non-residential sanitary, and wastewater treatment plant uses. In severe, critical and extreme drought conditions, the City will experience water shortages of 21%, 28% and 42% respectively for these uses despite the fact that they are the highest priority.


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OBJECTIVE 7: Flood Management As discussed above, region-wide projects #4, 5, and 13 contribute to flood management in this sub-basin. In addition, the following basin-specific projects contribute to flood management: Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) will identify areas suitable for retention and detention ponds and other drainage features that will aid in managing stormwater while providing additional groundwater recharge. Reducing the area of impervious surfaces through ordinances and on-the-ground projects will slow the rate of runoff to allow more time for infiltration. Relying on natural features improves water quality and reduces flooding, while having the additional benefits of enhanced recreation, open space, and education opportunities. Project #15 (Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project) contributes to flood management by capturing high winter flows and runoff for groundwater recharge. OBJECTIVE 8: Regional Economy As discussed above, region-wide projects #5 and 13 contribute to the regional economy. In addition, the following basin-specific projects also contribute to the regional economy: Project # 1 (San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades) addresses water quality and the regional economy by providing grants to some of the most economically disadvantaged residents of the watershed to replace inadequate septic systems. Project # 8 (Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project) adds value to the regional economy by ensuring adequate water supply for approximately 54% of the residents of Santa Cruz County and for the lion’s share of the county business community. The 2001 City of Santa Cruz Curtailment Study10 documented the economic and non-economic consequences of the future water shortages that could be expected without additional water supplies. Among other things, the magnitude of the expected drought-condition shortages that would be faced by business and industrial customers would likely result in serious production cutbacks, revenue losses, and employee layoffs. Businesses that depend on tourism would be particularly hard hit. City, county, and state tax revenues would be affected as well. OBJECTIVE 9: Regional Collaboration As discussed above, region-wide projects #2, 5, and 13 enhance regional collaboration. In addition, the following basin-specific projects will also enhance regional collaboration: To implement Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) county and water district managers will work together to identify and refine projects to

10 Op. cit.


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enhance and protect groundwater recharge areas. To gain maximum benefit from Project #6, agencies will need to coordinate policies and political strategies. Project #3 (Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge) is being done in a collaborative manner with a project review committee consisting of staff from the County of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley Water District, and the City of Santa Cruz. The County has a hydrologist on staff that will be the project manager. This person is able to give highly technical input to the other agencies regarding groundwater management. Furthermore, one of the objectives of the feasibility study is to better characterize the relationship between groundwater and stream flow in the lower watershed. This information will be useful to fisheries managers, surface water users, and proponents of projects to enhance aquatic habitats. The City of Santa Cruz and Soquel Creek Water District are working in collaboration to complete Project #8 (Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project) to provide additional drinking water supply. As plans come to fruition, the collaboration will be expanded so that the final design and operation of the facility reflects regional needs. Key Issues Specific to the Soquel/Aptos Sub-Basin

1. Most of the water supply in the sub-basin is groundwater from the Purisima formation. This formation serves two-thirds of the Soquel Creek Water District, the City of Santa Cruz Beltz Wells, and roughly one thousand private wells. Current pumping exceeds sustainable yield by approximately 600 acre-feet per year.

2. In the eastern part of the area, groundwater comes from the Aromas Red Sands

aquifer, which is contaminated by seawater intrusion as it extends into the Pajaro Valley. Current pumping practices have resulted in some inland movement of seawater in the La Selva Beach and Seascape areas.

3. Soquel Creek Water District must develop 1500 to 2000 acre-feet per year of new

supply to correct the current overdraft and meet future demand.

4. The City of Santa Cruz’s primary source of supply is surface water, and it relies on the Beltz Wells during the summer season and droughts. Not only is this source threatened by seawater contamination, but it is also insufficient to meet the City’s demands. The City’s recent integrated water plan concluded that a major new drought supply is needed immediately to avoid shortages in excess of 40% in a critical drought event.

5. Coastal groundwater elevations have reached historic lows and significant areas

remain below sea level for most of the year. If this condition is not corrected, seawater intrusion will result.

6. Soquel Creek is drying up more often than measured or observed in previous

years, but there has not been a confirmation of the extent or cause(s).


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Groundwater levels are now below the level of the creek, causing it to lose flow along the lower reach.

7. Fish habitat and production have been diminished in Soquel Creek, Arana Gulch,

and Valencia Creek as a result of excessive sedimentation, lack of large woody material, reduced summer baseflows, and impediments to migration.

8. Coastal lagoons have poor water quality as a result of urban runoff, and beaches

at Capitola and Rio del Mar are periodically posted as unsafe due to high bacteria levels.

9. Groundwater recharge in the Arana Gulch Watershed can directly influence

groundwater levels near major production wells for both Soquel Creek Water District and the City of Santa Cruz. Reducing excessive runoff and erosion in Arana Gulch will enhance recharge to the basin.

10. Similarly, increasing groundwater recharge in the Aptos Hills area may help

replenish groundwater levels in the coastal Aromas aquifer.

Key Linkages in the Soquel/Aptos Sub-Basin In addition to the six region-wide projects already discussed, five additional high priority projects will be implemented in this sub-basin. Table 9 shows the objectives to which each of these five contributes. Map 10 shows the locations of the projects in this sub-basin. OBJECTIVE 1: Water Supply Reliability Water supply reliability is a critical concern for water agencies in the Soquel/Aptos sub-basin. One of the key issues affecting reliability in the sub-basin is depletion of the aquifer, which consists of portions of the Purisima formation and Aromas aquifer. The Soquel-Aptos sub-basin provides the only source of water for approximately 46,000 residents, a community college and two high schools, two state and two regional parks, and numerous hotels, restaurants and businesses that are vital to sustaining the area's tourist economy. These users are primarily served by the Soquel Creek Water District, private wells, and smaller water districts not currently part of this planning effort. Other issues affecting reliability are contamination from nonpoint source pollutants, seawater intrusion in certain areas and reduced areas for recharge due to development. As discussed above, region-wide projects #2, 4, 5, and 13 help improve water supply reliability in this sub-basin. In this sub-basin Project #13 (Integrated Watershed Restoration Program - Phase 2) will construct 6-8 fish passage improvement projects, erosion and drainage control projects on key tributaries and 1 dam removal and recharge enhancement project. The erosion and drainage improvement projects will decrease accelerated runoff and increase infiltration.


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MAP 10- Projects in the Soquel-Aptos Sub-basin


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The following basin-specific projects also improve reliability: Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) will identify and implement smaller, localized projects at the local area levels to provide additional recharge to the aquifer. Though the physical location for Project #8 (Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project) is likely to be in the San Lorenzo Watershed, this is a regional project that will supply up to an estimated 1400 acre-feet of water per year for Soquel Creek Water District to address groundwater overdraft through in lieu recharge and provide reliable supply to meet future demand projections. Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) will enable Soquel Creek Water District to redistribute groundwater pumping to a new inland location. This will improve groundwater management especially with regard to seawater intrusion. The final phase of the project involves replacing irrigated turf on the playing fields at Polo Grounds Park with synthetic turf. This will conserve water, improve recreational use, and increase the water available for other beneficial uses. Project # 10 (Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations) will install 5-6 new monitoring wells in areas that are not currently monitored, and where more information is needed to manage seawater intrusion.

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OBJECTIVE 2: Raw Water Quality As discussed above, region-wide projects #2, 5, and 13 help improve groundwater quality in this sub-basin. In addition, the following basin-specific projects also enhance groundwater quality: Project #6 improves groundwater quality in this sub-basin in the same ways it affects the San Lorenzo River watershed. These linkages are described in detail above. Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) will improve groundwater quality by redistributing pumping to a more inland location, reducing the threat of seawater intrusion/contamination. Iron and manganese treatment is included in the project. Data from Project #10 (Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations) will help document the northward movement of saltwater and changes, both positive and negative, in groundwater storage. The proposed well locations are not currently monitored, and data will also be useful to the City of Santa Cruz, and neighboring water agencies including Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency along with Soquel Creek Water District. Over time, these water level records could help determine whether groundwater storage is experiencing a net decline due to pumping and/or recharge impacts from watershed land use activities. Variations in groundwater recharge and storage as a function of wet and dry years would also be more evident than in existing monitoring wells. This information may affect District decisions regarding recharge area protection and the operation of the conjunctive use program once the regional desalination project is operational. Surface Water Quality Surface water quality issues are well-studied and documented in this watershed through three recently completed watershed assessments and conservation plans and two important road-related erosion assessments and fish passage assessments11. Sedimentation from erosion, primarily related to roads, is identified as the most significant factor contributing to the deterioration of salmon and steelhead habitat. Excessive erosion, sedimentation, and turbidity have also caused extensive public and private property damage. For example, serious erosion problems in Arana Gulch contribute to massive amounts of sedimentation that reach Santa Cruz Harbor. In many years, portions of the harbor are closed and/or require extensive dredging to remediate this problem.

11 Soquel Creek Lagoon Management & Enhancement Plan Update (June 2004); Soquel Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Project Plan (November 2003); Aptos Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Plan (April 2003); Erosion Prevention Planning Project for County Roads and Roads in the Soquel Demonstration State Forest (2003); County of S.C. Stream Crossing Inventory and Fish Passage Evaluation (March 2004)Arana Gulch Watershed Enhancement Plan Phase 1: Steelhead and Sediment Assessments (2002)


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Urban runoff in developed areas has caused moderate levels of water quality degradation to streams and Soquel Creek Lagoon, Aptos Creek Lagoon, Corcoran Lagoon, and Moran Lake through contributions of bacteria and nutrients. Because rivers transport nutrients and pollutants to coastal waters, concentrations tend to be high near the mouths of rivers. Reduced baseflow in Soquel Creek, Aptos Creek and Arana Creek is a major issue. Beach water quality is a key issue for the beaches at Capitola and Rio del Mar, and Seacliff State Beach. Aptos Creek appeared on the 2002 303(d) list as being limited by pathogens and sedimentation/siltation. TMDL reports for Aptos Creek and Valencia Creek are in progress to address sedimentation and pathogens. Soquel Creek Lagoon is listed for nutrients, pathogens, and sedimentation/siltation. A TMDL report for pathogens in Soquel Creek Lagoon is also in progress. As discussed above, region-wide projects #4, 5, and 13 help improve surface water quality in this sub-basin. In this sub-basin, Project #13 (Integrated Watershed Restoration Program - Phase 2) will construct 6-8 fish passage improvement and 6-12 erosion and drainage control projects on key tributaries and 1 dam removal and recharge enhancement project. Projects include culvert retrofits, fish ladders, and high priority erosion and sediment control projects on public and private roads and lands. In addition, two components of Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) benefit surface water quality. The project includes extending the County’s sanitary sewer main to handle waste from the iron and manganese water treatment plant. The sewer line extension will allow 8-12 homeowners along North Drive to connect to the sanitary sewer and abandon their septic systems, providing added protection for water quality in nearby Valencia Creek which has a TMDL for pathogens. Installation of artificial turf will eliminate the need for pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers to maintain the 62 acres of sports fields. This project also addresses Objective 3: Delivered Water Quality. OBJECTIVE 4: Habitat Restoration & Preservation Aquatic habitats in the sub-basin include Soquel, Aptos, Arana, Valencia and Rodeo Creeks and other tributaries, as well as small wetlands and several lagoons. Key terrestrial habitats include riparian corridors, and redwood forests. Ocean habitats include lagoons, estuaries, and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The Soquel/Aptos sub-basin supports several steelhead runs; however several factors appear to limit their distribution and abundance. These include passage impediments, poor spawning habitat quality (high proportion of fine sediment, number of constricting, steep riffles below spawning glides), low spring and summer baseflows, limited amount of escape cover (provided by instream wood, undercut banks, large boulders, and deep pools), elevated water temperature, and limited water depth. Throughout the watershed, low baseflows and sedimentation limit the amount and quality of rearing habitat. The


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same factors that limit steelhead also limit coho salmon, although coho salmon are more sensitive to water temperature. Soquel Creek will be considered for re-introduction of coho salmon when habitat conditions improve, as the Department of Fish and Game has identified it as a coho salmon recovery stream. Sedimentation from landslides is a special concern in the upper East Branch of Soquel Creek, upstream of Ashbury Gulch. The California red-legged frog12 inhabits this area in the Soquel Demonstration State Forest. The area is also the primary spawning grounds for steelhead in the watershed and provides habitat for the southwestern pond turtle13. The foothill yellow-legged frog14 is known to inhabit numerous locations throughout Soquel Creek watershed. The West Branch of Soquel Creek, including the Hester Creek tributary, is a major sediment production transport zone. Sources of sediment are generally from landslide events. Juvenile steelhead densities are typically low here and growth rates are slow. The endangered tidewater goby is reported to occur in Soquel Creek from Highway 1 to Capitola Beach. Aquatic Habitats As discussed above, region-wide projects #4, 5, and 13 help improve aquatic habitats in this sub-basin. Several of the components of Project # 13 (Integrated Watershed Restoration Program - Phase 2) in this sub-basin were identified in the Soquel Creek Assessment and Enhancement Project Plan, Fish Crossing Study, Erosion Prevention Plan for Soquel and from FishNet 4C recommendations. Though projects are primarily aimed at fish passage improvements, there are additional benefits to red-legged frog and western pond turtle habitats. Replanting of native vegetation and exotic plant removal will occur in many of the component projects. Several of the erosion control, habitat restoration and fish passage projects occur in the West Branch and Hester Creek. In addition, the following basin-specific projects also enhance the aquatic habitat: Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) includes ordinances and other measures to enhance groundwater recharge, which in turn provide additional baseflow to streams. Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) meets the aquatic habitat objective by reducing pollution inputs to Valencia Creek, and eliminating the use of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizer on the playing fields. Terrestrial Habitats

12 The California red-legged frog is on the Federal list of species threatened with extinction. 13 The southwestern pond turtle is listed as a species of concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. 14 The foothill yellow-legged frog is listed by the Department of Fish and Game as a Species of Special Concern (August 2004).


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As discussed above, region-wide projects #5 and 13 help improve terrestrial habitats in this sub-basin. In addition, the following basin-specific projects also enhance terrestrial habitats: Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) will identify key lands for acquisition to improve or protect recharge. These lands are likely to also have habitat values. Ordinances to enhance and protect recharge are also likely to have benefits to terrestrial species and habitats by limiting impervious surfaces and recommending use of drought-tolerant or native plant species. Ocean Habitats As discussed above, region-wide projects #5, 13 and 17 help improve ocean habitats in this sub-basin. In addition, the following basin-specific project contributes to improving the ocean habitat: Project #7 (Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach) is primarily focused on protecting ocean habitats and public health. By removing a sewer main from its current location in the sand along more than two miles of one of the County’s most popular beaches, the Santa Cruz County Sanitation District will remove a serious threat to ocean habitats and beach water quality. The sewer line has broken at least eight times in the past spewing sewage into Monterey Bay. Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) meets the ocean habitat objective by reducing inputs of pesticides and pathogens in the lower Aptos Creek watershed. OBJECTIVE 5: Recreation The Santa Cruz Harbor has approximately 1,340 boats in slips or storage and hosts an active fishing and boating community and yacht club. As discussed previously, erosion and sedimentation from Arana Gulch impact the harbor. Urban runoff has degraded water quality in the creeks, tributaries, lagoons and adjacent beaches through contribution of bacteria and nutrients. The Moran and Schwann Lakes, and Corcoran, Neary and Soquel Creek Lagoons are unsafe for swimming year round due to high bacteria levels; Capitola and Rio Del Mar beaches are posted with public health advisories several times each year. Contaminants such as heavy metals are elevated and have been measured at toxic levels at times during storm events. These may accumulate in fish, shellfish and bottom sediments, affecting both recreation and public health. As discussed above, region-wide projects #5 and 13 protect and enhance recreation in this sub-basin. In addition, the following basin-specific projects benefit recreation: Project # 7 (Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach) is located at New Brighton State Beach, which was listed by Sunset Magazine as one of California’s top ten campgrounds. A demonstration of its popularity is the fact that reservations for summer are booked up six months in advance.


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Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) provides some important recreation benefits at a County Regional Park. Polo Grounds County Park is a 62-acre complex of highly used soccer fields and baseball diamonds. There is currently no potable water service at the park, and no permanent restrooms because sewer lines do not extend to the park. By implementing this project, both of these situations will be remediated. Drinking water will be available on site from the new well and treatment plant, and a sewer line will be installed to handle effluent from the iron and manganese treatment plant. This will allow for installation of restrooms and drinking fountains. In addition, the conversion from irrigated to synthetic turf will enhance recreational use by increasing playing time and improving the playing surface. OBJECTIVE 6: Public Health As discussed above, region-wide projects #2, 4, 5, and 13 contribute to protecting public health in this sub-basin. Public health benefits from Project #13 in this sub-basin include reducing sedimentation impacts on the Santa Cruz Harbor and in coastal lagoons. In addition, the following basin-specific projects contribute to improving public health: Project #7 (Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach) will eliminate the threat of large-scale sewage spills along 2.3 miles of some of Santa Cruz County’s most popular beaches. As discussed in the previous section, Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) will provide public restrooms and drinking water to a popular park that currently has neither. OBJECTIVE 7: Flood Management Capitola Village, lowlands along Soquel Creek, most of Soquel Village, and lowlands immediately adjacent to Noble Gulch lie within the 100-year floodplain. Capitola has been known to flood as a result of storm-related wave and tidal activity. Flooding is also an issue in the lower portion of the Arana Gulch watershed. The largest floods of recent times occurred in 1955 and 1982, and caused extensive damage. As discussed above, region-wide projects #4, 5, and 13 contribute to flood management in this sub-basin. In addition, Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) will identify areas suitable for retention and detention ponds and other drainage features that will aid in managing stormwater while providing additional groundwater recharge. By reducing the area of impervious surfaces through ordinances and on-the-ground projects, another objective of the effort is to slow the rate of runoff to allow more time for infiltration. Relying on natural features improves water quality and reduces flooding, while having the additional benefits of enhanced recreation, open space, and education opportunities.


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OBJECTIVE 8: Regional Economy Beach closings and postings result in losses in revenue for coastal tourism, particularly in this sub-basin, which has some of the most popular beaches and surfing spots in the County. Other economic impacts related to water management include losses for commercial and recreational fishing interests due to fisheries and shellfish bed closures and losses in fish spawning areas Polluted runoff is identified as a contributor to harmful algal blooms in other coastal areas. As discussed above, region-wide projects #5 and 13 contribute to the regional economy. In particular, Project #13 (IWRP – Phase 2) addresses many water quality issues as previously discussed, but it has a focus on erosion and sedimentation in this sub-basin. It adds value to the regional economy by implementing water quality improvements and in particular by addressing sedimentation and erosion. In this sub-basin, sedimentation and erosion reduces water quality, decreases infiltration and threatens the Santa Cruz Port District, and the Soquel and Aptos lagoons. OBJECTIVE 9: Regional Collaboration As discussed above, region-wide projects #2, 5, and 13 enhance regional collaboration. In addition, the following basin-specific projects will also enhance regional collaboration: To implement Project #2 (Abandoned Well Destruction Program) in this sub-basin, County water managers will work closely with Soquel Creek Water District and other water purveyors to complete an inventory of abandoned wells, and prioritize wells for destruction in order to gain maximum value in terms of protecting water supply. Similarly, to implement Project #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) the same managers will work together to identify and refine projects to enhance and protect groundwater recharge areas. To gain maximum benefit from Project #6, agencies will need to coordinate policies and political strategies. Project #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) involves collaboration between Soquel Creek Water District, the County of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department and the Santa Cruz County Sanitation District. These are new partnerships that have arisen from the integrated planning process.


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Key Projects and Issues in the North Coast Sub-Basin North Coast Sub-Basin Projects

Project # 11. Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Project # 6. Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

Issues Specific to the North Coast Sub-Basin • Streams in the North Coast Watershed Area provide supply for agricultural users, the

town of Davenport and of the City of Santa Cruz water supply (25-30% of the total City supply). Groundwater in the area also supplies individual wells and small water companies for rural residents in Bonny Doon and other areas of the basin.

• City of Santa Cruz year 2020 demand will exceed the safe yield of their system by 1.8

billion gallons (about 5500 acre-feet). The safe yield of their system in a severe drought is 3.3 billion gallons. Present use is about 4.4 billion gallons. Projected growth is 1% a year in demand, and projected demand is about 5.2 billion gallons. Conservation programs are targeted to achieve a 5-10% reduction in use per connection over the long term and between 10 and 15% reduction in short-term use. (SCC, 1996)

• The amount of water available for use by the City of Santa Cruz from Liddell Spring

has been increasingly diminished in recent years by periods of high turbidity and sedimentation. Elevated nitrate is also a concern. The source of these problems may be Bonny Doon Quarry or movement of water through the quarry from sources of contamination above the quarry.

• The geologic structure of basement rock at the Bonny Doon Quarry, Liddell Spring,

parts of Bonny Doon and into UCSC includes a karst limestone system. This geologic system is complex, the pathways of water movement are not easily understood, it is difficult to trace sources of contamination, and water supplies are difficult to predict and manage.

• Although the elevation of groundwater is significantly below sea level (-100 feet) in

the agricultural region along Hwy 1, seawater intrusion has not yet been observed in this basin (Webber-Hayes, 1998). Groundwater alone cannot meet all the agricultural water use demands because quantity and quality constraints. Agricultural water demand includes use of about 250 acre-feet per year of City water at a subsidized rate (SCC, 1996). Both raw water and treated drinking water are conveyed by the City to agricultural users on the North Coast. Raw water for agricultural accounts is delivered at a unit cost which is 1/4 of what city residents pay.

• Stream baseflows available for fish and other downstream uses have been reduced by

water diversions from Scott, San Vicente, Liddell, Majors, and Laguna Creeks. • Water treatment for the Davenport Water system does not meet standards for

treatment of surface water and the system is presently under a boil order. The community has not been able to afford the cost of system upgrade.


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MAP 11 - Projects in the North Coast Sub-basin


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Key Projects and Issues in the Watsonville Sloughs Sub-Basin In addition to the region-wide projects, one high-priority project will be implemented in this sub-basin:

Project #13. Watsonville Sloughs IWRP The Watsonville Sloughs sub-basin is located within the larger Pajaro Watershed and Pajaro Groundwater Basin. Watsonville Slough drains into the Pajaro River right at its mouth. The projects identified in this plan will address water quality, drainage and habitat issues in the Watsonville Slough sub-basin. Water Supply and flooding issues will be addressed in the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan for the Pajaro Watershed. Issues in the Sub-Basin

• The South County/Pajaro Basin includes the watersheds of Corralitos, Coward, and other creeks that drain into the Pajaro River, as well as the Watsonville Slough system and the coastal terrace along San Andreas Road. Most of the water use is groundwater with the vast majority of pumped by individual private agricultural users. The city of Watsonville uses groundwater and two surface diversions from Corralitos and Browns Valley Creeks. Groundwater use is managed by the Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency (PVWMA), which maintains meters on larger wells, charges usage fees, and is responsible for developing and implementing an overall Basin Management Plan.

• Annual pumpage in the Pajaro basin is 68,000 acre-feet/year and is projected to

increase to 78,000 acre-feet/year by 2040. The safe yield is cited in the Basin Management Plan as 31,000 acre-feet/year under current pumping patterns. Estimates in that plan indicate that the safe yield may be increased to 50,000 acre-feet/year if pumping is shifted away from the coast. The PVWMA is planning to shift pumping away from the coastal area and develop an additional 28,000 acre-feet/year of supplemental supply to meet demands through the year 2040 (Montgomery-Watson, 1993).

• The rate of seawater intrusion currently averages about 10,000 acre-feet during a

normal year, ranging up to 15,000 acre-feet during a critically dry year (Montgomery-Watson, 1993).

• The Pajaro area has the largest water supply imbalance in the County. In 1990 the

State raised the possibility of initiating a groundwater adjudication, which would potentially mean reducing groundwater use to match safe yield. Since that time, the PVWMA Basin Management Plan has been developed to address the situation, but there are challenges that may delay or limit its implementation.

• The Watsonville Slough system has been significantly modified through

channelization and drainage. Slough sediment and biota regularly exhibit toxic levels of the banned but persistent pesticide DDT that enters the sloughs from erosion of nearby fields (Questa, 1995). Other contaminants such as heavy metals are present at times, but do not generally occur at toxic levels.


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Map 12 – Project Locations in the Watsonville Sloughs Sub-basin


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H. IWRP - Integrated Watershed Restoration Program for Santa Cruz County The Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) for Santa Cruz County is a unique example of what can be accomplished when federal, state, and local agencies and organizations work together to tackle the challenges of watershed restoration. Because of the far-reaching scope and complexity of IWRP, this section provides important background and explanations regarding Project #13: Phase 2 of IWRP, and Project #12: Watsonville Sloughs IWRP. This section also examines the background of watershed restoration planning efforts in Santa Cruz County, the origins and mission of IWRP and describes the three phases of the IWRP program. Watershed Restoration Planning in Santa Cruz County Many local organizations have taken major steps to address the health of Santa Cruz County’s watersheds. The County of Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District (RCD), the Cities of Santa Cruz, Capitola, and Watsonville, the Coastal Watershed Council, Scotts Creek Watershed Council, Arana Gulch Watershed Alliance, and others recognized a need for comprehensive watershed plans in the late 1990s. These groups have since completed multiple watershed restoration assessments and plans, with funding from several state agencies. These are listed in Appendix C, along with other important regional and local plans and TMDLs which make recommendations for restoring fish and wildlife habitat and water quality in the region. Because of this proactive approach, Santa Cruz County’s record of completing watershed assessments is exemplary. The County may have the highest percentage of watersheds for which assessments and restoration plans have been completed in California.

Multiple benefits arise from these planning efforts. Recommendations contained in all of the plans provide a roadmap for restoring the County’s watersheds. Information in plans and assessments provides a scientific foundation for developing objectives and projects. The collaboration of federal, state, and local organizations has led to new working relationships. These facilitate problem solving and can garner financial support for watershed restoration.

Origins and Mission of IWRP

With literally hundreds of recommendations and projects identified in the watershed plans, local partners realized that they would be competing against each other for grant funding. Lack of funding for designs and the complexity of the permit process were problematic. Recognizing that watershed restoration could be more effective as a coordinated countywide effort, the RCD, the Coastal Conservancy, the California Department of Fish and Game, the City of Santa Cruz, the County of Santa Cruz, and the Coastal Watershed Council developed the concept for the “Integrated Watershed


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Restoration Program (IWRP) for Santa Cruz County” in 2002 and gained the support of other resource agencies. In addition, IWRP complements the non-regulatory recommendations in the TMDLs (Total Maximum Daily Loads) completed or in preparation for Santa Cruz County watersheds. Particularly relevant are the San Lorenzo River and Aptos/Valencia Creek sediment TMDLs. The mission of IWRP is to facilitate and coordinate projects to improve fish and wildlife habitat and water quality in Santa Cruz County watersheds using a voluntary, non-regulatory approach. Program objectives include:

1. Coordinate project identification, funding, and permitting. 2. Target proposals to critical projects.

3. Facilitate higher quality designs at lower cost. 4. Simplify the permit process.

5. Effect institutional changes to promote watershed restoration projects. 6. Develop and support outreach and education programs to increase

awareness of watershed resources and threats. 7. Serve as a watershed restoration information hub.

8. Link watershed partners with common goals. IWRP Partners NOAA Fisheries US Fish and Wildlife Service US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Conservation Service CA Department of Fish and Game Regional Water Quality Control Board 3 Coastal Conservancy Coastal Commission CA Department of Forestry CA Department of Parks and Recreation Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Fishnet4C Santa Cruz County RCD Coastal Watershed Council County Dept of Environmental Health County Dept of Public Works County Dept of Planning City of Santa Cruz City of Capitola City of Watsonville Arana Gulch Watershed Alliance Scotts Creek Watershed Council Watsonville Wetlands Watch Sustainable Conservation


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Three Phases of IWRP IWRP is being conducted in three phases. The Coastal Conservancy provided $4.5 million for Phase I and $206,000 for the development of the permit coordination program. Funding to implement Phase 2 is being sought from the Integrated Regional Water Management Grant Program. Funding for Phase 3 is likely to come from other grant programs in the future. All three phases also have significant local financial contributions. The following is a comprehensive description of the program. Phase I - Design & Development June 2003-June 2007

Coordination, designs, and permits for restoration projects form the core of Phase 1. Other efforts include the Rural Roads Sediment Reduction Technical Assistance Program, the Comparative Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project, a watershed activity guide and education program, and a monitoring program.

Phase I of IWRP will result in:

• 85-95 completed designs and permits for fish passage, sediment reduction, and wetland enhancement projects,

• a coordinated infrastructure involving federal, state, and local resource and regulatory agencies and local partners,

• a screening process to identify priority projects, • one-on-one technical assistance for project leads, • a countywide permit coordination program to facilitate environmentally

beneficial projects on private lands, • an assessment and restoration plan for five county lagoons to improve habitat

and water quality, and • a watershed activity guide tailored to Santa Cruz County for grades 4-12.

Coordination, Designs And Permits For Restoration Projects Coordination

A Design & Permitting Technical Advisory Committee (DP TAC) composed of resource and permitting agencies1 reviews the selection of projects for design funding and provides early guidance on design alternatives, analytical reports, and permits for each project.

A matrix of all known high priority projects with current status is sent to the DP TAC twice annually to review those proposed for IWRP and to check for any gaps.

1 NOAA Fisheries, US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, US Army Corps of Engineers, California Department of Fish and Game, Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, Coastal Commission, and the County of Santa Cruz


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Screening criteria and preliminary site visits by resource agencies select projects that provide maximum resource benefits.

The DP TAC provides a forum to discuss agency priorities. The RCD and the Design and Permit (DP) Coordinator can guide proposals to appropriate funding programs and give agencies advance notice of upcoming projects.

The DP Coordinator provides an important single point-of-contact for agency staff and project leads, resulting in considerable time savings for all involved. The DP Coordinator also provides critical guidance to keep projects on track.

Designs

The Coastal Conservancy grant provides funding to design 30-40 restoration projects and obtain permits. Projects include culvert retrofits and other fish passage and habitat improvements, sediment reduction projects, and wetland restoration. The DP TAC screens these projects.

The DP TAC makes site visits, and fish passage projects get early review by a Department of Fish and Game engineer. Site visits provide a forum to resolve any conflicting guidance between agencies.

An IWRP Design & Permitting Guidelines Manual provides critical information including accepted design standards, analytical report formats and guidance, permit information, and invoicing procedures.

Scopes of work and requirements for design projects are standardized to increase efficiency and consistency.

A Design and Permit Plan for each project provides a record of agency feedback and resolutions, which is useful in case of staff turnover or questions from other agencies.

Permits

The DP TAC gives early guidance on required permits for each project.

The DP TAC provides a forum to facilitate environmentally beneficial projects, such as the permit coordination program and Regional General Permits. .

The DP Coordinator serves as the liaison between the permitting agencies and the project leads, assisting with the preparation of applications and CEQA and reviewing permit applications for consistency. Bundling multiple applications results in quicker processing.

There are several other key IWRP efforts related to designs and permits: Partners in Restoration Permit Coordination Program for Santa Cruz County Under a separate Coastal Conservancy grant to the RCD, Sustainable Conservation is preparing the first county-wide permit coordination program for environmentally beneficial projects on private land. The program will be completed in Fall 2005.


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Regulatory agencies will enter into agreements with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the RCD to approve fifteen specific, standardized conservation practices that will improve habitat and soil stability on private lands in Santa Cruz County. The conservation practices are limited in size, have demonstrated a net environmental benefit, and are usually performed for erosion control or restoration in and around waterways. Landowners agree to follow NRCS specifications for conservation work. Several of the design projects in Phase I of IWRP will be eligible for the permit coordination program. Implementation of the program, proposed for Phase 2, will allow NRCS and RCD to oversee the selection, construction, monitoring, and reporting for each conservation project done under the program. Institutional Change and Coordination Prior to March of 2005, the San Francisco District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had a Regional General Permit for projects involving “fish friendly crossings.” Associated with this permit was a Biological Opinion from NOAA Fisheries, which enabled staff to issue incidental take permits for any federally listed salmonids potentially affected during construction. The alternative to the Regional General Permit (RGP) is a more time consuming process with formal consultations for each individual project. Unfortunately, in March 2005, the RGP expired and for various reasons the Corps did not renew it.

The IWRP Technical Advisory Committee and the two federal agencies discussed ways to replace the expired permit with a new process. As a result, Sustainable Conservation is developing a new Biological Opinion document that can be utilized by the Corps; and multiple IWRP projects may now be addressed in a single formal consultation with NOAA. In early discussions with NOAA, the Corps, and Sustainable Conservation, it appears that it will only require slightly more effort to extend the geographic scope beyond Santa Cruz County to northern California. Thus, IWRP is facilitating the development of a permitting mechanism with far reaching effects for restoration work for salmonids in California. DFG Engineer/Hydrologist Retainer Contract Due to the number of IWRP fish passage projects requiring careful technical review, the Coastal Conservancy has arranged an interagency agreement with the California Department of Fish and Game for the services of a DFG engineer/hydrologist. Access to early technical review has greatly facilitated the development of IWRP projects that will be more likely to receive permits. Rural Roads Sediment Reduction Technical Assistance Program

Complements the County’s erosion-risk road assessments

Provides outreach to private road associations in the San Lorenzo, Soquel, and Aptos watersheds to identify, design, and permit up to 45 sediment reduction projects.


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Assesses approximately 75 miles of roads using the Department of Fish and Game protocols2 to identify projects.

Establishes a technical advisory committee to focus on water quality objectives and establish project selection criteria including endangered species concerns. This committee will identify target areas and monitoring program success.

The 45 design projects benefit from the coordinated permitting process described above.

Comparative Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project.

Assesses five lagoons3 in Santa Cruz County over a period of three years to develop baseline data on physical and hydrologic conditions, water quality, phyto- and zooplankton communities, submerged aquatic vegetation, and macroinvertebrate and fishery communities. The assessment will be completed in Fall 2005.

The assessment has a technical advisory committee composed of NOAA Fisheries, Department of Fish and Game, Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, California Department of Parks and Recreation, Coastal Commission, Cities of Capitola and Santa Cruz, and the County of Santa Cruz.

Data from the lagoons will be compared and an index of ecological integrity developed, along with recommendations for management and restoration of the lagoons. Future monitoring recommendations will also be included. The report will be completed in Spring 2006.

Watershed Activity Guide and Education Program

Watershed Cruzin’, the IWRP watershed activity guide, provides 25 activities for grades 4-12 to develop students’ understanding of watershed processes and issues. It includes aerial and historical photos, endangered species lists, GIS maps, and other locally relevant materials. The guide will be completed in Summer 2005.

Watershed Cruzin’ serves as a companion piece to the Coastal Commission’s successful “Waves, Wetlands, and Watersheds” activity guide.

The guide follows California science and history curriculum content standards. It specifically supports the environmental principles and concepts of the Education and the Environment Initiative (AB1548 Pavley, Chapter 665, Statutes of 2003) by utilizing environmental education as a catalyst to advance education reform goals.

2 Chapter 9 of the California Salmonid Stream Habitat Restoration Manual 3 Scott, Laguna, San Lorenzo, Soquel, and Aptos Lagoons


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Development was overseen by a scientific and technical advisory group composed of resource agencies and teachers. Program development has helped facilitate strong local partnerships with the County of Santa Cruz, County Office of Education, University of California, watershed groups, non-profits and community members.

Monitoring Program

Standardized monitoring methods and protocols are being developed. Baseline data is collected at the design stage for use in future effectiveness monitoring.

Twelve of the Rural Roads Technical Assistance Program design projects will be monitored for sediment inputs before and after project implementation.

The Comparative Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project is establishing

baseline monitoring protocols and data for the five county lagoons.

All of the above will contribute to development of the regionwide monitoring program (IRWMP Project #16) and to project effectiveness monitoring in the future.

Phase 2 - Implementation (IRMWP Projects #12 & 13) 2006-2009 With the completion of the designs for restoration projects in Phase 1, the focus of Phase 2 is on implementation and construction. Many Phase 1 efforts will continue, but there are specific areas where implementation funding is needed:

a) Constructing or implementing the restoration projects designed in Phase 1, b) Implementing erosion and drainage control projects along private roads and State

Parks Roads, c) Sediment control and culvert replacement along County roads,

d) Implementing the Partners in Restoration Permit Coordination Program, e) Implementing the Watershed Cruzin’ resource and activity guide and education

program,

f) Continuing to provide technical review and coordination, and

g) Monitoring The components of these are described below:


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Construct Or Implement Restoration Projects Of the 85-95 projects that will be designed in Phase 1, fifteen have sufficient funding to implement, and 70-80 projects require funding to implement or construct. A grant from the Integrated Regional Water Management Program will allow these latter projects to be constructed or implemented in Phase 2. In related efforts, a strategy for implementation of lagoon restoration projects will be developed in Phase 2 and IWRP staff and the Technical Advisory Committee will identify additional watersheds that require assessments and plans, as well as existing watershed plans that need updates. The following are examples of projects that will be constructed in Phase 2. Watershed Project Name Project type Agency Lead San Lorenzo Kings Creek (4)

culvert retrofits

sediment reduction County of Santa Cruz

Kings Creek PM 0.75 culvert replacement

sediment reduction County of Santa Cruz

Soquel Creek

Hester Creek culvert replacement

fish passage and habitat improvement


Bates Creek culvert replacement

fish passage and habitat improvement


Olson Ford Replacement

fish passage RCD

Tucker Ford Replacement

fish passage RCD

Aptos Creek

Valencia Creek Road culvert retrofit

fish passage County of Santa Cruz

Valencia Creek Fish Ladder improvements


Spreckles Weir fish passage modification


Scotts Creek Lower Mill Creek bank restoration

sediment reduction and fish habitat

RCD

Arana Gulch Blue Trail gully restoration

sediment reduction RCD


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DeLaveaga Park gully restoration

sediment reduction RCD

Watsonville Sloughs

Upper Watsonville Sloughs

wetland enhancement

City of Watsonville

Middle Watsonville Sloughs

wetland enhancement

County/RCD/Land Trust

Manabe Wetland Restoration

wetland enhancement, habitat corridor

City of Watsonville

Larkin Valley Streambank Stabilization

habitat corridor riparian restoration

RCD

Implement Permit Coordination Program The Partners in Restoration Permit Coordination Program will accelerate the number of projects done on private land. The NRCS and RCD will administer the program by working with participating landowners to ensure that their projects fit parameters of the program and include conditions and protection measures finalized in the permits and agreements. The NRCS and RCD provide oversight for the permitting agencies. The program was established in Phase 1. A Permit Coordinator will work with RCD staff and the NRCS to ensure that permit conditions are adhered to. The Coordinator will provide reports to regulatory agencies and arrange site visits. Several IWRP projects will qualify for the permit coordination program, saving time and money. Implement Watershed Education Program Phase 2 of IWRP will provide teacher training and support to increase the effectiveness of the IWRP watershed activity guide. In addition, materials will be translated into Spanish in order to reach more students. Phase 2 of the Watershed Education Program will operate for three years, pending sufficient grant funding. Each year, five Saturday workshops specific to grades 4-8, will be held in late summer. A project education coordinator will provide follow-up classroom support throughout the year, and extend the training to additional teachers. Teachers will be provided a stipend to share their experience and knowledge by mentoring other teachers in the program and holding mini-workshops for grade-level peers. Pre-and post workshop surveys and interviews, and year-long observations will be conducted to assess teachers’ knowledge of the program content and aptitude for teaching environmental topics. Continuing university credits will be available. Public and non-


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profit agency collaborators will make classroom presentations and host field trips that extend learning opportunities. IWRP staff will continue to develop outreach and educational partnerships and identify new needs. Implement Monitoring In order to gauge project effectiveness and evaluate broader habitat response as a result of IWRP restoration projects, IWRP staff will participate in the development and implementation of the region-wide monitoring program (IRWMP Project #16). Information derived from the monitoring program will be useful in selecting future restoration projects for IWRP. Phase 3: Future Plans and Projects Inter-agency coordination and review of new projects will continue. Regional General Permits will be renewed, as they expire after five years. Coordination positions will continue to be staffed.

Recommendations from the Lagoon Management Plans will be implemented. Watershed planning will occur to address needs identified in Phase 2.

Implementation of the Watershed Cruzin’ activity guide and education program will continue. New outreach and educational partnerships will be developed and new needs identified.


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I. IRWM Plan Expansion Section G described in detail the process used to identify high priority projects from the universe of projects that were considered. Projects described in Section F constitute the current regional priorities to be initiated through 2007. While the partner agencies are proud of the planning effort to date and are confident that the high-priority projects that have emerged from that effort best meet the needs of the region, they also recognize that integrated planning must be a dynamic and iterative process. They understand that, as conditions change and/or as better information becomes available, current priorities will be further refined and new priorities may emerge. This is the essence of the integrated planning process. This section describes how the region proposes to build on the current IRWM planning process. Project #17 (Upgrade and Expansion of the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan) is identified as a high priority project. Plan expansion is the vehicle that partner agencies will use to modify and refine priorities in response to regional changes. The IRWM plan expansion includes:

• Institutional enhancements Critical Coastal Areas program Improved tools and analytical capabilities Project sizing, sequencing and operations Additional projects and/or project modifications

Following are discussions of the tasks that fall into each of these areas: Institutional Enhancements By its nature, integrated planning causes new communication channels to be opened. The improved communications may lead to the development of formal or informal new institutional structures which, in turn, may lead to the development of new joint strategies for identifying and developing needed supplies and infrastructure or operating existing facilities. The expanded regional plan will: Identify and begin to implement new formal or informal structures that could

better achieve regional objectives. Explore ways to integrate additional agencies into the planning process.

Determine how activities of this region can best be coordinated with neighboring

regions. Develop an extensive and broad ongoing public and stakeholder involvement

process to assist decision makers consider range of perspectives in the planning area.


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Develop regional and/or subregional emergency curtailment measures and programs in the event of a drought, particularly across district boundaries.

Critical Coastal Areas Program One of the key challenges facing the region, and one the IRWMP must address, is non-point source (NPS) pollution impacts on coastal resources and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The State’s Critical Coastal Areas (CCA) Program is intended to address this issue and build upon local watershed planning efforts to add value to the work already underway. The Coastal Commission describes CCA as “an innovative program to foster collaboration among local stakeholders and government agencies, to better coordinate resources and focus efforts on coastal-zone watershed areas in critical need of protection from polluted runoff.” The north Santa Cruz County region includes four state-designated CCAs: The San Lorenzo River Soquel Creek Lagoon Aptos Creek Watsonville Sloughs

Many existing watershed plans do not identify all the NPS pollution impacts to their coastal resources, nor do they include Management Measures for addressing these impacts—the CCA Program can help fill this gap. Though plans and assessments were recently completed for each of these watersheds, Coastal Commission staff and local planners have identified the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed as being especially well suited for piloting the CCA program in Santa Cruz County.

The program will bring together multiple stakeholders to promote a collaborative watershed approach to addressing NPS pollution.

The planning process for individual CCAs consists of two components:

1. Conducting a Watershed Assessment that identifies and evaluates existing and potential NPS pollution impacts to coastal and marine resources by compiling and analyzing available data.

2. Developing an Action Plan that identifies all the steps required to address NPS impacts and improve water quality conditions in the CCAs watershed, including application of appropriate Management Measures. This Action Plan will provide a list of priority actions and define the responsible agency in addressing each action. Links to available funding opportunities will also be made.

For Watsonville Sloughs Watershed, the watershed assessment is complete, however there is no CCA Action Plan. It is expected that a Local CCA Committee (comprised of watershed groups, special interest organizations, government agencies, and community members) will be formed to develop the Action Plan. The Action Plan is intended for multiple audiences in addition to the Regional Committee, including local government officials and planners, funding agencies, and legislators.


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Improved Tools and Analytical Capabilities The ability to understand the tradeoffs among alternative projects and alternative ways to operate existing facilities is in large part a function of the region’s modeling and analytical capabilities and project integration. The expanded plan will therefore include the following elements: Evaluate, develop and apply appropriate modeling tool(s) and database(s) to

support current and future regional planning in the county. Perform more nuanced project evaluations. The tools and databases will be used

to more thoroughly evaluate the relative and absolute impacts of the projects against planning objectives.

Design and implement detailed and rigorous protocols to ensure that regional

benefits (and costs) are carefully monitored and evaluated on an ongoing basis and that plan components can be modified as needed to maximize net benefits.

Project Sizing, Sequencing and Operations The types of institutional and analytical efforts described above will enable the participating agencies to carefully determine how best to size, sequence, and jointly operate the projects that are developed. Specific tasks include: Determine best way to size and sequence the projects to maximize regional

benefits of reliability, water quality, habitat restoration, etc. Determine how projects should best be operated, individually and jointly, to

maximize these benefits. Additional Projects and/or Project Modifications The Preliminary IRWMP has identified 38 potential future projects. The region must systematically determine which of these projects should ultimately be implemented, how they should be financed, how they should be jointly operated, etc. In addition, the types of institutional efforts described above will also likely lead to the identification of additional projects, modifications to current projects, or other water management strategies that might better meet regional needs in a cost-effective manner. Enhanced modeling and analytical capabilities will allow the participating agencies to closely examine the various possibilities, both individually and collectively. Specific plan elements include: Identify and evaluate additional water supply projects from a broader list of

supply options, including but not limited to:

o Storage projects (both surface off-stream and groundwater) to meet demand and increase summer base flow and fish habitat;

o Conjunctive use strategies to recharge groundwater; and o Imports and desalination.


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Thoroughly integrate water conservation and water reuse into the IRWMP

process. Evaluate and develop more system interties and capabilities to move water

between systems for mutual aid and potential conjunctive use. Identify additional environmental restoration project and coordination needs.


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J. Implementation of the Preliminary IRWMP The projects to be implemented were described in Section F. Project milestones and timelines are shown in Section K. This section focuses on the institutional structure for Plan implementation. The partner agencies will implement the Preliminary IRWMP with the participation of additional agencies and stakeholders. The lead agency for each priority project is identified in Section F. Projects for monitoring and plan expansion will involve all the agencies. Because there is not adequate local funding available to fully implement the priority projects, additional funding is being pursued. The partner agencies in the region have applied for an Integrated Regional Water Management Grant in 2005/06 to implement the 17 high priority projects identified and described in Section F. The Implementation Grant program is the only integrated funding scenario being considered at this time. Other funding sources for certain individual projects are also being pursued. Implementation Grant Because at least six agencies are involved, with differences in mission, jurisdictions, internal policies and capacity, the steering committee recognized that a new institutional framework would be ideal to implement the Plan with a single grant. In February 2005, the steering committee approached the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County about the possibility of that organization becoming the fiscal sponsor for implementing the Plan. Throughout March and April, the steering committee and the Community Foundation continued to discuss how the arrangements might work. In April the Community Foundation Board of Directors authorized Foundation staff to work with the steering committee to develop the details for the implementation grant proposal. To implement the IRWMP with a single Implementation Grant, the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County will be the grant applicant and the fiscal agent. The partner agencies will continue to utilize a steering committee of regional water managers to oversee implementation. The partner agencies and the Community Foundation together will develop an agreement clearly describing each agency’s responsibilities for projects funded by the implementation grant. This will be done when it is known whether the initial grant proposal will be considered in the second step of the grant process. The grant proposal will include funding to manage, administer and coordinate the overall effort. This is likely to be done by an experienced project management contractor. Each individual project will have a clearly identified project manager, and construction projects will have clearly identified construction managers as well. The partner agencies will work on a reimbursable basis. The Community Foundation will submit monthly invoices for reimbursement and, upon payment, will transfer the funds back to the local agencies.


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Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County Founded in 1982, the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County is a public, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization created by area residents as a permanent resource for the entire county. The Foundation’s mission is to promote philanthropy to make Santa Cruz County a better place to live, now and in the future. To accomplish this, the organization: Helps donors in their charitable giving Assists financial advisors and attorneys to explore giving options to benefit their

clients Provides grants and resources to community organizations, and Works with government, private foundations, and local leaders to address current

and emerging needs. Ironically, the Community Foundation was initially formed in response to the need for coordination of relief funds after a devastating storm, which caused extensive flooding and widespread damage. The Foundation improved its performance in nearly all categories in 2003 despite a flat economy, federal and state funding cuts, and a national slump in charitable contributions. It enjoyed a 36% increase in total assets, rising from $21 million in 2002 to $29 million at the end of 2003. Investments grew nearly 27%, placing their organization’s performance in the top 10% of similarly-sized community foundations surveyed. Grants disbursed rose 49% in 2003 from $1.9 million to $2.8 million, setting a new record for the Foundation. The Foundation’s jurisdiction includes all of Santa Cruz County. Their sound fiscal footing ensures the stability and institutional capacity to oversee the substantial grant needed to implement this Plan. The partner agencies recognize many benefits from working with the Community Foundation to implement the IRWMP using a single implementation grant: The Foundation is a “neutral” third party. Their involvement promotes the

Foundation’s mission.

The Foundation has lower administrative costs than the County of Santa Cruz, which would be the next logical choice to oversee IRWMP implementation.

The Foundation has experience with administration of large grants. It was recently engaged in a similar scenario managing state grant funds for multiple Santa Cruz County agencies under California’s Healthy Kids Initiative. In the past the Foundation has managed and coordinated earthquake and flood relief funds.

The Foundation has done important outreach to many environmental and community groups to identify issues and needs related to water and the environment in Santa Cruz County. Information from that outreach has been


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incorporated in this IRWMP Planning effort. The Community Foundation will continue the dialogue with stakeholders throughout the implementation phase.

Quality Assurance/Quality Control in Plan Implementation Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) will be a responsibility shared between the project management consultants, individual project managers, the IRWMP implementation steering committee and in some cases additional independent review will occur. Actions will include review of reports, tables, figures, and results by senior staff and consultants with professional registrations and other qualifications, visits to project sites, as well as implementation of the Project Assessment and Evaluation Plan. During regular meetings and planned conference calls, consultants, managers and the IRWMP steering committee will ensure that QA/QC procedures are followed, discuss potential problems, review and evaluate alternatives, and confirm the schedule for internal review of work products. If required, state-certified labs will be used for water and other analytical laboratory measurements. Field equipment will be regularly calibrated (e.g. meters for specific conductance and temperature (SCT), pH, flow and pressure transducers). Dispute Resolution Any disputes regarding implementation of the IRWMP will be addressed through the interagency steering committee, and if necessary, through the larger group of partner agencies. If a dispute arises, the role of the committee is to discuss the issue and make recommendations to partner agencies, project management consultants or to the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County. We do not anticipate changes to the positive, collaborative relationships already in place. If a dispute arises that cannot be resolved, we would ask for assistance from DWR or SWRCB staff in facilitating a resolution.


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L. Impacts and Benefits Most of the information described under this heading in the IRWM Grant Program Guidelines is included in Sections F and G. A discussion of the impacts and benefits to disadvantaged communities is included in Section C. Table 12 summarizes the key positive and negative impacts of each high-priority project.


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Table 12

Impacts and Benefits Matrix

Project # Project Potential Benefit Interregional Benefits

Potential Negative Impact

Impacts to Other Resources (air quality, energy, economy)

1 San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades

Reduce levels of nitrate and pathogens entering the San Lorenzo River, which are both TMDL's None None Infrastructure investments may improve property values for

low-income residents

2 Abandoned Well Destruction Program

Protect groundwater from contaminants that leak into the groundwater basin through old wells.

Protection of Purisima and Aromas Groundwater

Basins Which Also Supply the Pajaro Region

None This project has a long-term economic benefit by protecting

the integrity of groundwater, future need for importing water is reduced.

3 Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge

Provide water supply reliability to SVWD, the City of Santa Cruz, and private well users in the area. None None Economic benefit- protects integrity of groundwater


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4 Regionwide Drainage Master Plan

Aid in enhancing groundwater recharge aid in managing polluted runoff and propose improvements to

the County's stormwater/ drainage facilities; Aid in improving river/ stream baseflow; reduce public health risks (vector control)

None None Infrastructure investments may improve property values

5 Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program

Improve surface and groundwater quality, protect beaches and coastal waters, protect public health, enhance fisheries and habitats, educate the public about pollution prevention, and

encourage citizen involvement.

Program Also Covers Neighboring Pajaro Region None

Protecting water quality will provide an economic benefit by sustaining local tourism and perception of a clean

environment

6 Enhance & Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

Improve water supply reliability and protect groundwater integrity

prevent/slow seawater intrusion

Also Affects Purisima, Aromas, and Pajaro Region None May help with flood control

7 Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach

Reduce sewage spills in Monterey Bay and help protect public health Affects Monterey Bay construction

activity on beach Protect beach related economy


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8 Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project

Advance project to provide supplemental drinking water source for 135,000 Santa Cruz County residents.

May Reduce Impacts to Purisima/Aromas

Groundwater Basins None

Plant design has potential energy savings on the order of 15-25% and water recoveries as high as 60% from

traditional designs

9 Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant,

Pipelines and Water Conservation Project

Provide substantial water conservation, recreational use, and water capacity reliability, improve groundwater management,

slow saltwater intrusion

May Reduce Impacts to Purisima/Aromas

Groundwater Basins None

Provides water conservation, sanitation, recreation and habitat benefits. reduced application of pesticides with use

of artificial turf benefits air and water quality.

10 Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations

Improve monitoring of seawater intrusion, groundwater management, and groundwater contamination detection

capabilities

Monitoring Information Useful to Pajaro Region None None


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11 Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Protect health and safety of Davenport residents None None

Infrastructure improvements may positively affect property values and insurance rates. New

water tank helps meet minimum fire flow requirements.

12 Watsonville Sloughs IWRP Restore wetland and upland habitats, remove exotic species, provide groundwater recharge and habitat connectivity, and

increase public access and education

Provides connectivity to habitats in Upper Watershed

Pajaro Region and some recharge to the groundwater

basin

none May help to alleviate flooding problems on adjacent agricultural lands

13 Integrated Watershed Restoration Program - Phase 2

Provide benefits to aquatic habitats by reducing sedimentation, improving fish passage, and implementing restoration projects

May improve regional fisheries

construction activity in streams. Will be mitigated.

Potential air quality benefits associated with a reduction in dredging at Santa Cruz Harbor as a result of erosion control in Arana Gulch, flood

control benefits from culvert replacements.


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14 Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts

Valley Area

Will relieve pumping on the overdrafted Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin None none Economic Benefit- Protects integrity of

groundwater

15 Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project

Provide water supply reliability to SVWD, the City of Santa Cruz, and Private Well Users in the Area. None none Economic Benefit- Protects integrity of

groundwater

16 Project Monitoring Can easily gauge the effectiveness of the IRWMP Scope of Work and identify improvements where necessary

May serve as a template for other Monterey Bay Area or

coastal watershed management efforts

None Economic Benefit - ensures investments are well-placed

17 Update and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan

Expand integration with participating agencies such as Watsonville Wetlands Watch.

Critical Coastal Areas component will serve as a pilot for the Monterey Bay

Area

None Economic Benefit - ensures investments are

well-placed. Cost-effectiveness of future projects considered.


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M. Technical Analysis and Plan Performance The IRWM Plan Standards state:

Include a discussion of data, technical methods and analyses used in development of the Plan. Include a discussion of measures that will be used to evaluate Project/Plan performance, monitoring systems that will be used to gather performance data, and mechanisms to adapt project operations and Plan implementation based on performance data collected.

Technical methods to develop the Plan and approaches to project evaluation were discussed in Sections D through G. Section F included a listing of the relevant local planning documents pointing to the need for each high priority project. Plan implementation was discussed in Section J. Current water quality and water quantity monitoring efforts will be described thoroughly in Section N. Data used in development of the Plan is discussed in Section Q.


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N. Data Management Monitoring

Appendix E contains a complete listing and descriptions of Santa Cruz County water quality and water quantity monitoring efforts, and shows over thirty local efforts to monitor water quality in County watersheds. Select water quality and quantity monitoring efforts are also listed at the end of this section. Local agencies have integrated most monitoring efforts with statewide priorities, including the following: The County of Santa Cruz Department of Environmental Health Services currently implements a suite of monitoring efforts in addition to those conducted by the Coastal Watershed Council, various water districts, foundations, and school groups.

The Integrated Watershed Restoration Program Phase 1 includes a Coastal Lagoon Ecological Assessment Project which involves monitoring and data collection in five lagoons in collaboration with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, City of Santa Cruz and the County.

Numerous statewide monitoring programs and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary also collect or facilitate the collection of data locally. Data Gaps Identified in Plans Water Quality Monitoring Needs The 2003 Aptos Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Plan made some general recommendations to conduct water quality monitoring in Lower Aptos Creek, and in Mangel’s Gulch. Additional data gaps identified in the Enhancement Plan include focusing on groundwater/surface water interaction and potential long-term effects of groundwater extraction. It also recognized that the condition of septic systems within the Soquel and Aptos watersheds has not been evaluated, and that a better understanding of how septic systems are functioning throughout the watersheds would aid in water quality improvement and illuminate understanding of groundwater recharge through septic contributions. In the 1999 report, Water Resources Management in Santa Cruz County- Issues Fact Sheet, County staff concluded that additional efforts were needed to monitor groundwater contamination from underground storage tanks and nitrate levels in agricultural wells in the south county, including the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed. The 2004 San Lorenzo River Pathogens TMDL proposed the following recommendations:

Continue to track the County of Santa Cruz’s monitoring data and keep tabs on the situation to see if it is improving, staying the same or worsening. Evaluate


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data and determine if there is a change in water quality that more clearly indicates impairment or attainment of water quality objectives;

Move forward with a TMDL to address coliform issues in San Lorenzo River… Participants in a February 26, 2004 Central Coast Water Quality Monitoring meeting included water quality managers from state, county, city, academic and private research institutions working on the Central Coast. They identified the following data gaps: More monitoring is needed, particularly in upstream areas, rural areas, northern

Santa Cruz County… and in the near-shore marine environment. More testing needs to be done for metals, nitrates and pesticides, pathogens,

sediment and sedimentation and flow. The frequency of some monitoring needs to be increased, but the optimum

frequency and time of day for some types of monitoring still must be determined. There is a need for technological advancement to increase the geographic and

temporal extent of sampling because of natural variations throughout the day and during tidal cycles.

The 1998 Central Coast Ambient Monitoring Program Coastal Confluences Sediment Chemistry Assessment recommended that monitoring be conducted to evaluate performance of the cleanup of existing pesticide storage and handling facilities in the vicinity of Watsonville. Monitoring should include focused sediment and bioaccumulation sampling to determine status and trends after remediation. The 1992 Memorandum of Agreement regarding water quality that established the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Water Quality Protection Program outlines a sanctuary water quality protection program that, among other issues, calls for the establishment of a comprehensive water quality monitoring program to (i) determine the sources of pollution causing or contributing to existing or anticipated pollution problems in the sanctuary (ii) evaluate the effectiveness of efforts to reduce or eliminate those sources of pollution, and (iii) evaluate progress toward achieving and maintaining water quality standards and toward protecting and restoring any degraded areas and living marine resources of the sanctuary. The 1996 MBNMS Action Plan entitled Regional Monitoring, Data Access, and Interagency Coordination, addresses the need for development of a coordinated regional monitoring program and data access system. The plan identifies a need to develop coordinated monitoring programs and databases that can characterize the health of the MBNMS and its watersheds, and assist resource managers in monitoring the success of management activities.


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Water Quantity Monitoring Needs The 2003 Soquel Creek Watershed Assessment and Enhancement Project Plan recommends installation of additional automated streamflow monitoring stations in the Soquel Creek mainstem and East Branch to better understand the gain and loss of streamflow, particularly in the period from May through September. The Watsonville Sloughs Watershed Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan has identified that no stream flow records exist for the Sloughs. Monitoring Needs Identified by the IRWMP Through the integrated planning process, the partner agencies also identified other monitoring needs to benefit the region, including:

• Additional monitoring wells to detect seawater intrusion; Monitoring of erosion with respect to sediment transport or stream baseflow; Monitoring inland groundwater levels and pumpage of private wells in the Aptos-

Soquel area; Effectiveness monitoring for integrated projects; and Consolidation of monitoring efforts.

Two projects identified as high priorities in the IRWMP, Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations (Project #10) and Project Monitoring (Project #16) specifically address many of the identified data gaps. In particular, Project #16 (Project Monitoring) is proposed to establish baseline conditions and monitor the effectiveness of individual projects in this plan as well as the effectiveness of the overall integrated strategy. As Project #16 is developed, a monitoring and reporting strategy will integrate existing monitoring efforts with the proposed new efforts. Monitoring in target watersheds and streams will characterize channel conditions, sediment accumulation, fish habitat quality and productivity, water quality, streamflow and groundwater levels. Where feasible, monitoring will be conducted in the vicinity of representative projects before and after implementation in order to measure effectiveness of those specific projects. Interest in this type of coordinated monitoring has been growing in the Central Coast region. In February 2004, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary hosted a one-day forum on water quality monitoring that attracted over 100 participants from government agencies, nonprofit organizations, research institutions and private industry. An agreement was reached at the end of the day supporting development of a regional monitoring strategy. Participants identified the need to better understand the information that already exists and identify gaps that make it difficult to determine long term trends in water quality, essential to evaluating the success of State and regional programs. The IWRM partner agencies participated in this forum, and recognize the need to ensure longevity of the monitoring beyond the life of any short–term implementation grants. The partner agencies also recognize that an institutional structure is needed to assimilate data from the implementation of the components of this plan into one picture of overall


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effectiveness, and integrate it with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary’s water quality monitoring. The MBNMS, along with local and state partners, has recently begun an effort to compile water quality data and present it within the geographic context of where management measures are being implemented. The goal of this effort is to ensure that management measures are being implemented in areas where water quality concerns are high, and it is also hoped that this effort will, over time, document water quality improvements resulting from enhancement efforts. The partner agencies recognize that the State of California and local partners will need this kind of information if the focus on integration of water resources management is to be continued. It is undeniable that this will be a significant challenge. However, as was made clear at the February Water Quality Forum, the familiarity of local agencies with the importance of monitoring, the unique relationship between the region and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and the high caliber of local expertise available in the region ensure that the region is well suited to address the challenge. Over 20 marine science research institutions are located in the Monterey Bay area, and local partners and the Sanctuary have an interest in quantifying the benefits and impacts of many of the types of projects identified in this plan. Project Monitoring will be implemented in partnership with local agencies and the Sanctuary, in coordination with state and region-wide data protocols. Additionally, this effort will complement the ongoing efforts of the MBNMS and could potentially draw support from the U.S. EPA and private foundations interested in the same goal. The mechanisms by which data will be managed will include use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) and adherence to approved monitoring and project assessment and evaluation plans. Information will be disseminated to stakeholders and the public through local partner capabilities such as the Monterey Bay Sanctuary’s Sanctuary Integrated Monitoring Network website (SIMoN), through the reporting of the partner agencies, and through outreach and ongoing dialogue to environmental and community organizations done by the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County. These components will be described in more detail in the implementation grant proposal. Integration with the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program (SWAMP) and Other Statewide Monitoring Efforts The participating agencies in this IRWMP are aware of the SWAMP and have knowledge and experience with this program. Project #16, Project Monitoring, will be implemented to track basin conditions and changes in response to projects and management strategies. This will allow partner agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of projects, and prioritize future efforts. Data and results from Project #16 will be fully coordinated with the SWAMP and other water quality monitoring programs of the State Water Board and the Regional Water Quality Control Board. Surface water data will also be shared with the Department of Fish and Game and US Geological Survey to contribute to the hydrologic unit assessment of the State’s surface waters. Data collected under these IRWMP projects will also be coordinated with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Monitoring to be conducted under project #16 also takes into account regulatory considerations


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defined in the NPS Program, Basin Plans, and List of Impaired Waters outlined in the Clean Water Act. Integration with the Groundwater Ambient Monitoring and Assessment (GAMA) Program Groundwater information collected through Project Monitoring (Project #16) will be fully integrated with the Groundwater Ambient Monitoring and Assessment Program (GAMA). This will contribute to the program objective of developing a comprehensive assessment of statewide groundwater quality and will aid in understanding contamination risks to specific groundwater resources. Project #10 in particular supports the GAMA program by installing new groundwater monitoring wells in both coastal and inland locations. Participating agencies will work with the SWRCB, US Geological Survey, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory to collect and integrate groundwater results in accordance with established data collection protocols.


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O. Beneficiaries and Financing This section identifies beneficiaries of IRWMP implementation and potential funding or financing to implement the Plan. Ongoing support for operation and maintenance of implemented projects is also discussed. Beneficiaries of IRWMP Implementation As described in detail in preceding sections, the identified high-priority projects directly benefit residents throughout the region in many ways. For example, the wetlands enhancement, pollution prevention, groundwater recharge and water quality improvement projects in Watsonville Sloughs sub-basin directly benefit the residents of Watsonville, which is a disadvantaged community. The septic tank replacement program is established for low-income residents in the San Lorenzo watershed. The regional desalination project will provide drought year supply for the 90,000 Santa Cruz City Water Department customers who will benefit from the additional water supply. It will also provide a supplemental supply for 45,000 Soquel Creek Water District customers and relieve pumping in the coastal aquifer. By making desalination part of the water portfolio, there will be less economic disruption for the entire region in times of severe drought. The residents of Davenport will benefit by having drinking water that meets public health standards. Each and every high priority project provides multiple benefits of a similar caliber. In addition, the projects benefit aquatic, terrestrial, and ocean species through habitat improvement and maintenance. In particular, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary benefits as a result of several projects. Because of the relationship between Santa Cruz County and Silicon Valley (i.e. one Santa Cruz County resident in six currently commutes ‘over the hill’ for work), the provision of adequate water for modest growth in Santa Cruz County and the protection of the County’s water resources contributes to the continued economic competitiveness of the Bay Area. Monterey Bay is a premier tourist destination in California. By protecting the environment, reducing water pollution, and ensuring an adequate water supply, the state of California receives economic benefits. Finally, as discussed below in Section P, the high-priority projects support key statewide priorities. Implementation of the IRWMP encourages local solutions to water supply issues, and reduces future need to import water from other areas of the state. The partner agencies in this region rely entirely on local sources for water supply. No water is imported from elsewhere. The partner agencies recognize that they must aggressively implement the IRWMP in order to absorb some the modest growth that is predicted, address the current supply shortfalls, and protect the region from additional shortages in times of drought.


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Potential Funding or Financing to Implement the Plan The partner agencies in the region will apply for an Integrated Regional Water Management Grant in 2005/06 to implement the 17 high priority projects identified and described in Section F. The Implementation Grant Program is the only integrated funding scenario being considered at this time. Other individual funding sources have been and will continue to be pursued. Match funding will come from a variety of sources including direct cash contributions from local agencies, in-kind services, a federal 319(h) grant, and other sources. Budgets for each of the high priority projects are in Appendix F. A summarized budget to implement all high priority projects is below.

Cost Estimate Sheet

Proposal Title: Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Implementation

Budget Category Non-state Share (Funding Match)

State Share (Grant Funding) Total

(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $1,670,340 $1,913,194 $3,583,535(b) Land Purchase/Easement $973,694 $145,000 $1,118,694(c) Planning/Design/Engineering/Environmental

Documentation $4,507,697 $4,156,541 $8,664,239(d) Construction/Implementation $12,484,714 $23,058,405 $35,543,119(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement $308,347 $322,500 $630,847(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] $19,944,792 $29,595,640 $49,540,434(g) Construction Administration $1,283,091 $848,750 $2,131,841(h) Other $216,118 $740,500 $956,618(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency $2,151,320 $924,393 $3,075,713(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $23,595,321 $32,109,283 $55,704,606

Source of funds for Funding Match: in-kind services, local agency/organization cash contributions, federal 319(h) grant


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Project# Project Applicant

2005 Grant Request Total Cost

1 San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades

County of Santa Cruz Environmental Health Services 1,000,000 1,987,261

2 Abandoned Well Destruction Program County of Santa Cruz Environmental Health Services 1,000,000 1,425,000

3 Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge - Phase 2

County of Santa Cruz Environmental Health Services 500,000 660,000

4 Regionwide Drainage Master Plan County of Santa Cruz Public Works Department 500,000 625,000


County of Santa Cruz Public Works Department 500,000 628,000

6 Enhance & Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

County of Santa Cruz Public Works Department and Environmental Health Services

750,000 882,500

7 Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach Santa Cruz County Sanitation District 3,000,000 15,334,750

8 Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project

Soquel Creek Water District and City of Santa Cruz 1,300,000 3,163,406

9 Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project Soquel Creek Water District 5,010,710 6,149,280

10 Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations Soquel Creek Water District 450,000 856,000

11 Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Davenport Sanitation District 600,000 600,000

12 Watsonville Sloughs IWRP

Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District, City of Watsonville, Watsonville Wetlands Watch

2,302,574 3,356,524

Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP)

Santa Cruz County RCD with Partners Total Funding Amount: broken down below:

9,450,000 12,297,885

Private and State Parks Road Upgrades 3,000,000 4,865,885County Road and Culvert Upgrades Santa Cruz County Public Works 3,950,000 4,375,000IWRP Coordination andTechnical Review 200,000 250,000Watershed Education Implementation 165,000 200,000Permit Coordination 340,000 472,000Restoration Projects 1,795,000 2,135,000

14 4 Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts Valley Area Scotts Valley Water District 1,051,000 1,754,000

15 Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project Scotts Valley Water District 500,000 1,250,000

16 Project Monitoring All $905,000 $1,205,000

17 Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan All 500,000 700,000

18 Project Management and Administration All 2,890,000 2,930,000Total $32,209,284 $55,804,606

42% Match $23,595,322

Cost Estimate to Implement High Priority Projects

13


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Ongoing Support for Operation and Maintenance of Implemented Projects The seventeen high priority projects each fall into one of 3 general categories:

1. Construction Projects Projects #7, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15

2. Feasibility Study, Monitoring or Planning Projects Projects # 3, 4, 8, 16, 17

3. Implementation Projects Projects # 1, 2, 5, 6, 12, 13

The operation and maintenance of “construction” projects will be the responsibility of each of the implementing agencies. For example, Scotts Valley Water District will operate and maintain the Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project once it is constructed, and the Santa Cruz County Sanitation District will maintain the New Brighton State Beach Sewer Line Replacement. In most cases, the cost of operation and maintenance for construction projects will be covered by dedicated funds within each agency. For the most part, “feasibility study, monitoring and planning” projects will not require ongoing operation or maintenance. The monitoring project (#16) is the exception to this. In order to continue to operate the project beyond the life of an IRWM implementation grant, a new institutional structure is likely to be established. This structure is likely to involve the National Marine Sanctuary in a coordinating role. One of the key areas to be developed is a strategy for continued operation of the program after an implementation grant ends. This will be developed more during the grant application process.

Support for ongoing operation and maintenance of “implementation” projects varies with the project as summarized below.


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# Project Name Support for Operation and Maintenance 1 San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage

Disposal System Upgrades Individual property owners will be responsible for maintaining the upgraded septic systems.

2 Abandoned Well Destruction Program

Once wells are destroyed, no operation or maintenance is needed. Subsequent phases for the project are likely to be funded by federal or state grants.


The County is pursuing a Vehicle Registration Fee to pay for stormwater pollution prevention.

6 Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

Maintenance responsibility will vary with location. In some cases, there will be agreements with landowners; in other cases, the County or partners will maintain.

12 Watsonville Sloughs IWRP Maintenance responsibility will vary with location. In some cases, there will be agreements with landowners; in other cases, the City of Watsonville, County or other partners will maintain.

13 Integrated Watershed Restoration Program- Phase 2

Maintenance responsibility will vary with location. In some cases, there will be agreements with landowners, watershed groups and homeowners associations; in other cases, the County or other partners will maintain.


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P. Statewide Priorities This section describes how projects identified in the Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan support statewide priorities identified in these recent documents: ! Bulletin 118 - California�s Groundwater Update, 2003

! Watershed Management Initiative (Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board) Update, 2004

! Bulletin 160, California Water Plan Update Advisory Review Draft, 2005 ! Protecting Our Ocean -California�s Action Strategy (Ocean Plan), 2004

! California�s Non Point Source Pollution Control Program ! SWRCB NPS Pollution Control Regional (Central Coast) Priorities

! No Time to Waste- A Blueprint for California Water, May 2005 ! Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program (FY2005)

! USEPA Watershed Plan Elements, 2003 ! California�s Critical Coastal Areas Watershed Assessment and Action Plan

Outline, 2004 ! DWR Desalination Task Force Findings and Recommendations, October 2003

! California Floodplain Management Task Force, December 2002 Following is a discussion of the relationships between the seventeen high priority projects and key statewide priorities and recommendations. These are depicted in Table 13. Bulletin 118- California�s Groundwater 2003 Update California Department of Water Resources The 2003 Bulletin 118 update includes two recommendations that are consistent with the IRWMP objective of protecting groundwater quality:

1) Groundwater management agencies should identify, prioritize, and protect recharge areas.

2) Continue supporting coordinated management of groundwater and surface water supplies and integrated management of groundwater quality and groundwater quantity.

Eight of the 17 high-priority projects address both of the Bulletin 118 priorities and 16 of 17 projects address the second priority relating to management of groundwater supplies.

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Watershed Management Initiative (WMI) 2004 Update Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board Priorities identified in the WMI Update that are most closely supported by the IRWMP high-priority projects include TMDL implementation, improving beach water quality, addressing water quality impacts from irrigated agriculture, maintaining the Central Coast Ambient Monitoring Program, and implementing Phase II of the NPDES Stormwater Program. The latter three priorities are each addressed by seven of our high-priority projects identified in this Plan.

Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for Impaired Waters Eight projects address TMDLs. TMDLs have been developed and approved for sediment and nitrates for the following waterbodies contained in the planning region: San Lorenzo River-Sediment (for Carbonera Creek, Lompico Creek, and Shingle Mill Creek tributaries) (February 2004); San Lorenzo River- Nitrate (January 2003); Carbonera Creek- Nitrate (January 2002); Lompico Creek- Nitrate (January, 2002); and Shingle Mill Creek- Nitrate (January 2002). Several TMDLs are in progress for the waterbodies in the region listed in the table below for sediments, pathogens, nutrients, and pesticides. Waterbody TMDL Aptos/Valencia Creek sediment Aptos/Valencia Creek pathogens Carbonera Creek pathogens Lompico Creek pathogens San Lorenzo River pathogens San Lorenzo River Estuary pathogens Schwan Lake pathogens Soquel Lagoon pathogens Watsonville Slough pathogen Watsonville Slough pesticides Sediment TMDLs The WMI Update specifically addresses the need for reducing sedimentation from private and public roads, timber harvest activities and urban runoff in the San Lorenzo River Watershed. Project #13, the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program includes a cost-share program for drainage and road improvements, and several environmental restoration projects to reduce sedimentation in the San Lorenzo River. Projects #4 (Regionwide Drainage Master Plan), #5 (Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program), and #6 (Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas) will address sediment TMDLs by addressing certain kinds of erosion problems and stormwater runoff. Nutrient and Pathogen TMDLs The 2002 303(d) list specifically identifies the San Lorenzo River as being polluted by nutrients and pathogens from inadequate septic systems. Project #1, San Lorenzo Onsite


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Sewage Disposal System Upgrades, directly addresses this problem by providing a cost-share program for low-income residents to replace leaking and inadequate septic systems. Project #12, Watsonville Sloughs IWRP, will address this TMDL through nutrient management and education/outreach components. It also directs resources to the implementation of agricultural management practices specified within Farm Water Quality Plans. Riparian and Wetland Protection and Restoration The second state priority in the 2004 WMI Update is riparian and wetland protection and restoration. The recently completed Watsonville Sloughs Watershed Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan, which will be implemented with project # 12, recommends a diverse set of projects to be carried out with willing landowners. Wetland and riparian restoration are large components. The project seeks to restore and increase these habitats by a minimum of 44 acres; restore marsh hydrology and wetland swales; restore wetland functions and values; preserve riparian corridors and buffer zones; and acquire sensitive areas. Project #12 also seeks to enhance native grassland and oak plant communities and remove non-native plants. An agricultural drainage component of this project also meets the WMI Update objective of improving water quality impacts from irrigated agriculture. Project #16 Project Monitoring, closely relates to a priority identified in the 2002 Central Coast Region WMI Basin Plan, namely to expand the Central Coast Ambient Monitoring Program into a regional monitoring program that provides information on ambient conditions in the region�s watersheds and coastal waters. The Project Monitoring component will implement monitoring to track basin conditions in Northern Santa Cruz County. It will also be used as a tool to track changes in response to projects and management strategies in order to evaluate the effectiveness of projects and prioritize needs for additional projects and management efforts. California Water Plan Update Advisory Review Draft 2004 California Department of Water Resources As shown in Table 13, every high priority project identified in the IRWM Plan supports at least three of the eight priorities identified in the 2004 California Water Plan Update Advisory Review Draft. In addition, of the 25 resource management strategies identified in the Water Plan Update, the IRWMP most closely supports the following 13: conjunctive management & groundwater storage; water transfers; desalination; recycled municipal water; local surface storage; groundwater/aquifer remediation; pollution prevention; urban runoff management; agricultural lands stewardship; economic incentives; ecosystem restoration; watershed management; and floodplain management.

The California Water Plan Update proposes 14 recommendations for the next 25 years. Four of these recommendations are directly supported by Northern Santa Cruz County IRWMP projects:

! Invest in reliable, high quality, sustainable, and affordable water conservation, efficient water management, and development of water


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supplies to protect public health, and maintain and improve California�s economy, environment and standard of living.

! Inventory, evaluate, and propose management strategies to remediate the causes and effects of contaminants on surface and groundwater quality.

! Invest in research and development to help local agencies and governments implement promising water technologies more cost effectively.

! Improve data, analytical tools, and information management needed to prepare, evaluate, and implement regional integrated resource plans and programs in cooperation with other federal, tribal, local, and research entities.

Protecting Our Ocean -California�s Action Strategy (Ocean Action Plan 2004) California Resources Agency and California Environmental Protection Agency The objectives identified in the Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan closely parallel those identified in the 2004 Ocean Action Plan. Eight of the 17 high-priority projects each address at least 2 of the Ocean Action Plan�s objectives.

Aside from these objectives, one of the Ocean Plan�s recommended actions is to complete the California Coastal Sediment Management Plan. The IRWMP closely supports this management plan by addressing erosion influenced sedimentation problems through several of the high-priority projects. California�s Non Point Source Pollution Control Program State Water Resources Control Board The 2000 Plan for California�s Non Point Source Pollution Control Program identifies clear goals to reduce nonpoint source (NPS) pollution. These goals seek to manage NPS pollution, where feasible at the watershed level. Many of the IRWMP management strategies focus on reducing polluted runoff in watersheds with identified water quality problems. Many action items in Project #5 (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program) will provide comprehensive solutions to nonpoint source pollution problems in the San Lorenzo, Aptos, Watsonville Sloughs and Pajaro watersheds. Project #17 (Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan) will pilot a Critical Coastal Areas program in Watsonville Sloughs. The CCA Action Plan will ensure the protection and restoration of the area and will focus on NPS pollution. Central Coast Region NPS Pollution Control Priorities The IRWM Plan objectives also parallel the 2002/2003 Central Coast regional priorities for nonpoint source pollution control which include implementing plans for meeting TMDL�s, addressing urban runoff, and expansion of nonpoint source pollution management with emphasis on compliance with Phase II of the NPDES Stormwater


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Program. Thus, as shown in Table 13, many of our high-priority projects also meet these regional priorities. No Time to Waste- A Blueprint for California Water (May 2005) In May 2005 the Association of California Water Agencies released an action plan to encourage leaders at the state and federal level to re-engage in water issues and provide a roadmap for investing in California�s water future. Of the twelve action plan recommendations made, the following coincide with the proposed Integrated Regional Water Management Plan projects and objectives. ! Develop additional groundwater and surface water storage, including proposed

surface storage projects now under study if they are determined to be feasible ! Improve the quality of California�s drinking water supplies to safeguard public

health and enhance water quality for agriculture and the environment ! Work with local agencies to overcome constraints to developing seawater and

brackish groundwater desalination ! Clarify and expand the state�s role in flood control and promote multi-benefit

flood control projects ! Support integrated regional water management plans

Every high priority project identified in this Plan addresses one or more of these recommendations. Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program (FY 2005) California Department of Health Services The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program goals reflect both federal and state legislative intent to provide funding to correct public water system deficiencies based upon a prioritized funding system.

Four long term goals identified for the DWSRF Program are listed below and supported by several IRWMP projects including Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project (Project #8), Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project (Project #9), and Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project (Project #11).

1) Ensure that public water systems provide an adequate, reliable supply of safe, clean drinking water

2) Fund projects on the comprehensive, multi-year Project Priority List. Project # 11 the Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project appears on this list.

3) Ensure that all public water systems achieve and maintain compliance with the SDWA. Projects #11 (Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project) and #9 (Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project) are particularly relevant, as they involve improving and installing water treatment systems.

4) Encourage Consolidation


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USEPA Watershed Plan Elements (2003) Appendix H contains a matrix depicting how Project #13 (IWRP � Phase 2) meets each of the nine USEPA watershed plan elements. Monitoring is a key component of watershed-based plans that are developed or implemented with federal funds. This IRWMP includes a monitoring project to track basin conditions and changes in response to projects and management strategies. To implement the Clean Water Act, the USEPA has placed top priority on implementing on-the-ground measures and practices that will reduce pollutant loads and contribute to the restoration of impaired waters. Several IRWMP projects aim to reduce nonpoint source pollution. For a discussion of these projects refer to the previous discussion of California�s Non Point Source Pollution Control Program. Many of these projects and others identified in the IRWMP contribute to the restoration of impaired waters.

The EPA recognizes and emphasizes the continued need to protect waters that currently are not impaired by nonpoint source pollution to assure that they remain unimpaired. The following projects support USEPA Watershed Plan priorities:

! Project # 5 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program ! Project #6 Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas ! Project #9 Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water

Conservation Project ! Project #12 Watsonville Sloughs IWRP ! Project #13 Integrated Watershed Restoration Program ! Project #14 Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts

Valley Area ! Project #16 Project Monitoring ! Project #17 Upgrade and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan

California�s Critical Coastal Areas Watershed Assessment and Action Plan Outline (2004) California�s Critical Coastal Watershed Assessment and Action Plan Outline was released on December 17, 2004. The CCA Program is intended to build upon local efforts and to add value to the work already underway in a watershed, by focusing on management measures to address nonpoint source pollution impacts to coastal and marine resources. Eight high-priority IRWMP projects address NPS pollution. This outline also points out that this program may provide an opportunity to bring together multiple interest groups in a watershed to promote a collaborative watershed approach to addressing NPS pollution. One of the IRWMP project objectives is regional


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collaboration. Ten projects meet this objective and five projects meet this objective with applications to NPS pollution. Lastly, the CCA Program is an important component of California�s Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program and has been included in the 2004 Ocean Action Plan. As previously mentioned, projects identified in the IRWMP meet a variety of NPS Pollution Control and Ocean Action Plan objectives. DWR Desalination Findings and Recommendations (October 2003) The Department of Water Resources Desalination Task Force presented 29 recommendations to guide the process of implementing desalination projects. Each of these recommendations was considered for the planning of the Regional Ocean Desalination Project. Analytic comparisons from the City of Santa Cruz 2003 Integrated Water Plan showed that a City-only or regional desalination strategy coupled with a 15% worst year curtailment provides the best cost-reliability trade-off for Santa Cruz water customers. The full-scale plant will utilize an existing structure for seawater intake, minimize chemical use and will dilute brine by discharging through the City�s wastewater outfall. The particular technology used for the full-scale plant desalination plant could realize an energy savings of 40% compared to traditional membrane configurations. California Floodplain Management Task Force (December 2002) The Task Force convened by the Department of Water Resources recommended floodplain management strategies to reduce flood losses and maximize the benefits of floodplains. Projects in this IRWMP most closely support the following recommendations: flood management approaches for ecosystem restoration and agricultural conservation, nonstructural approaches, restoration, and conservation of agriculture and natural lands, multi-jurisdictional partnerships, coordination among agencies and groups, and protection of floodplain groundwater recharge areas. Seven IRWMP projects specifically meet the objective of flood management: Regionwide Drainage Master Plan, Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, Enhance & Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas, Watsonville Sloughs IWRP, Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP), Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project, Project Monitoring, Update and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Finally, in addition to the above, Project #13 (Integrated Watershed Restoration Program) incorporates watershed management recommendations identified in:

• The Resources Agency report to the Legislature, �Addressing the Need to Protect California�s Watersheds: Working with Local Partnerships,� 2002

• The Resources Agency�s Task Force report, �Removing Barriers to Restoration,� 2003;and

• The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary�s "Water Quality Protection Program: Agriculture and Rural Lands Action Plan," 1999.


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Q. Relation to Local Planning This section will focus on the data used in development of the Plan. Section F included a list of relevant local planning documents that point to the need for each project, and Section I described the ways local agencies will utilize the IRWM Plan expansion to address gaps in local water management planning. Water Quality Data Since the early 1990s, several Santa Cruz County agencies have worked together with the Regional Water Quality Control Board, the State Coastal Conservancy, the California Coastal Commission, US Environmental Protection Agency, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, California Department of Fish and Game, and private foundations to complete thorough assessments of the nature and cause of water quality problems and their resultant effects. At least fourteen significant planning documents have been produced, and these are now used to identify and prioritize water quality improvement projects and fish passage improvement projects. Watershed assessments and/or conservation and enhancement plans have been recently completed or updated for all of the major watersheds in the county. Data from these planning efforts shaped the development of each of agency’s project lists, and formed the basis of some of the objectives for this IRWMP. Complete lists of all planning documents referenced are included in Appendix C. In addition, the extensive water quality monitoring efforts now underway in the County are continually reviewed, and information is shared regularly with a large group of stakeholders. Information from these studies helps to guide and prioritize efforts. For example, a recent genetic assessment of the sources of bacterial contamination in Santa Cruz County lagoons and river mouths has pointed to the need for certain types of projects over others. The results from citizen water quality monitoring programs are used by the County to make informed decisions in implementing the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program. Water Quantity Data Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin Implementation of groundwater management plans has increased knowledge of basin characteristics throughout the planning region. As discussed in the 2002-03 Scotts Valley Water District Groundwater Management Annual Report 1 SVWD conducted a hydrogeologic investigation of the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin in the vicinity of Scotts Valley with help from a DWR Local Groundwater Assistance grant. Work was conducted in spring 2003. The investigation addressed gaps in geologic, aquifer parameter, and water level data in the south Scotts Valley area as identified in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin

1 on page 6 and elsewhere


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Advisory Committee’s White Paper. This investigation, along with work by Santa Cruz County and San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD), has improved the understanding of hydrogeologic conditions in Scotts Valley. As a result of this investigation, the description of basin geology and aquifer geometry was updated and a new hydrogeological conceptual model was developed for the basin. The new conceptual model has important implications for the groundwater monitoring program, groundwater storage estimates, groundwater computer model, contaminant fate and transport, and for the District’s approach to groundwater development and management. The District is completing the update of the groundwater model with a 2003 DWR Local Groundwater Assistance Grant. The most recent information used in formulation of the IRWMP came mainly from these documents: Study Date Completed Author(s) S.V.W.D. Groundwater Management Program, Annual Report

July 2003 Todd Engineers

S.V.W.D. Urban Water Management & Water Shortage Contingency Plan

May 1999 Jon P. Sansing and Todd Engineers

Soquel-Aptos Groundwater Basin Soquel Creek Water District has an improved understanding of water quantity in the Aromas and Purisima Formations through numerous studies, models and investigations over the last 20 years. The most recent information used in formulation of this plan came mainly from these seven studies: Study Date Completed Author(s) Draft Technical Memorandum 2 Hydrogeologic Conceptual Model

September, 2004 JOHNSON, Nicholas; WILLIAMS, Derrick; YATES, Gus; THRUPP, Gordon

Technical Memorandum, Ground-Water Conditions in the Soquel-Aptos Area, 2000 Through Mid 2003

September, 2003 Luhdorff & Scalmanini Consulting Engineers

Purisima Wells Drinking Water Source Assessment and Protection Program Report

December, 2002

Luhdorff & Scalmanini Consulting Engineers

Source Water Assessment of Soquel Creek Water District Aromas Red Sands Aquifer Wells

April, 2002 Todd Engineers

Evaluation of Regional Water Supply Alternatives, Final

March, 2002 Carollo Engineers

City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan

March, 2003 Gary Fiske & Associates

Groundwater Management Plan Soquel-Aptos Area

April 1996 (2005 update in progress)

Soquel Creek Water District and Central Water District

In addition, the City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan, and the data files which underlie that plan, include a wealth of information on the availability of water supplies from the North Coast and San Lorenzo sub-basins under differing hydrologic conditions.


158

Watsonville Sloughs Sub-basin Information concerning issues and water quality in the Watsonville Sloughs Sub-basin came primarily from regional reports cited previously and the following reports: Study Date Completed Author(s) Watsonville Slough Watershed Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan

January 2003 Swanson Hydrology for County of Santa Cruz

Pajaro River Watershed Water Quality Management Plan

1999 Applied Science and Engineering Inc. for AMBAG


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R. Stakeholder Involvement Outreach to stakeholders for the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan (IRWMP) and its component projects has occurred through four main venues:

1. The Integrated Regional Water Management Plan is based on recommendations of watershed plans, water management plans and water supply plans developed with extensive stakeholder and public involvement from 1995-2005.

2. A summit of 30 nonprofit leaders was conducted in April 2004 by the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County to identify major environmental issues in the County, including water issues, needs and opportunities. That information supported watershed assessments and was also used in the Plan development.

3. Planners and project proponents have done outreach and had discussions with State, Federal, and local agencies and elected officials with a nexus to these projects beginning in 2002 and continuing through the present.

4. Development of the IRWMP has been publicly noticed and reported through the proceedings of at least three publicly elected boards, and two appointed water commissions.

As described above in Section I, stakeholder involvement for the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan will continue and become more extensive as the Plan is updated and expanded in 2006 and 2007. The IRWMP partner agencies will report to the public about progress in implementing the Plan. The Community Foundation will continue to report to nonprofit leaders regarding progress on water and environmental restoration issues. Stakeholder and public involvement for individual projects is on-going, and in many cases, extensive. This involvement is summarized at the end of this section. The Santa Cruz Sentinel is the major regional newspaper, and has a history of providing detailed coverage of water issues affecting the County, consistently raising local awareness of the need to improve water supply reliability. City and County officials are often quoted in these articles. Recent articles and editorials regarding desalination and local water supply issues are attached in Appendix G. The newspaper will be informed of progress in implementing the IRWMP. Mechanisms To Facilitate Stakeholder Involvement During Plan Implementation Project implementation progress reports will be disseminated to local stakeholders, funding agencies and organizations with similar interests. We will utilize several methods to do this. First, the Community Foundation will continue its dialogue with leaders of over 30 environmental groups working in Santa Cruz County, sharing information about the implementation of the IRWMP. Progress reports and final project reports will be shared with stakeholders. Overall project results will be shared with the local media. We will make special efforts to keep elected officials informed about progress and results. Stakeholder involvement for the individual projects in this plan will continue as projects are implemented. Certain projects such as the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program Phase 2, Watsonville Sloughs IWRP, and


160

Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge will have very significant stakeholder involvement components. Environmental Justice Environmental Defense is a leading national nonprofit organization representing more than 400,000 members. The organization has produced detailed statistics relevant to discussions of environmental justice, and issues an environmental justice “scorecard” for distributions of environmental burdens in all California counties (http://www.scorecard.org/). Santa Cruz County scores below the state average in all categories including distribution of environmental burdens by: race or ethnicity, income levels, poverty, childhood poverty, home ownership and education, indicating that there are few environmental justice issues. The County’s scorecard is included in the attachments. The City of Santa Cruz Integrated Water Plan committee, which played a significant role in selecting and approving the desalination strategy, consisted of seven representatives from throughout the City’s water service area. Special efforts were made to ensure that appointed committee members adequately reflected the community. Letters of Support As of July 2005, at least 25 letters from throughout the region have been received expressing support for the planning process and implementation of the high priority projects. Copies of the letters are included in Appendix H. Partnerships Developed During The Planning Process The Santa Cruz agencies involved in development of this plan began with a high level of cooperation and collaboration as described in Section B. Nevertheless, new partnerships were forged and previous collaborations were greatly expanded as a result of the integrated regional water management planning process. Examples of partnerships or collaborations that emerged through this planning process include: Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County/ All Partner Agencies As we began to explore ways to implement this plan it became clear that a new institutional structure would be needed to handle coordinated financing of projects. As described above, the partner agencies turned to the Community Foundation and found not only experience with managing large grants and a commonality of mission, but also shared stakeholders. Our plan incorporates the focused outreach done by the Foundation in 2004 regarding water and environmental issues. This is discussed in greater detail in Section J. County of Santa Cruz/Resource Conservation District The County and the RCD have a good history of working together, particularly on erosion/sediment control and fish passage improvement projects. As a result of this


161

IWRM planning effort, and the early successes of Phase 1 of the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program, the collaboration will be continued and expanded. The RCD is actually “sponsoring” a County project, one to replace culverts for erosion control and fish passage, under the umbrella of the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program. RCD/City of Watsonville The Manabe Wetlands Restoration Project, in the Watsonville Sloughs Watershed, emerged in early 2005 as a critical project. However, the City of Watsonville was not actively participating in the Integrated Plan development. The RCD agreed to become the project proponent and will sub-contract with the City to execute the project. Soquel Creek Water District/ Santa Cruz County Sanitation District A new collaboration between these two agencies emerged as a direct result of this Integrated Planning process, when Soquel Creek Water District identified that it would be desirable to run a sanitary sewer line to Polo Grounds Park to fully implement one of their projects. The agencies will work cooperatively in project planning. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary/ All Partner Agencies As the partner agencies discussed the monitoring and coordination necessary to measure effectiveness of the overall Integrated Regional Water Management Plan, we approached the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary about assisting with this and found a willing partner. The Sanctuary staff’s familiarity with regional monitoring efforts and the fact that all watersheds in our planning area discharge to the Sanctuary make this an effective collaboration. The relationship will be developed more fully later in 2005. County of Santa Cruz/ Watsonville Wetlands Watch/ Resource Conservation District/ City of Watsonville Each of these agencies has an interest in implementing aspects of the Watsonville Sloughs Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan. The four organizations worked together to ensure that efforts were coordinated. County staff assisted Watsonville Wetlands staff with preparation of budgets and information needed for the Integrated Plan. The RCD has included Watsonville Wetlands Watch projects in the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program and Permit Coordinator Programs. Scotts Valley Water District/ County of Santa Cruz / City of Santa Cruz These three agencies collaborated in the development of the concept for the Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge project; and will continue this partnership by working together as a steering committee to implement the project. Soquel Creek Water District/ City of Santa Cruz These two agencies have been jointly studying possible construction and operation of a regional desalination facility for years. The Engineering for Region Ocean Desalination project developed for this planning effort marks a critical step toward more formal collaboration.


162

Soquel Creek Water District/ County of Santa Cruz/ Resource Conservation District These agencies are working together on projects to enhance aquifer recharge and also to identify and destroy abandoned wells. Potential Obstacles To Plan Implementation Despite the substantial commitment of agencies in the County to implement the IRWMP, the Steering Committee identified several potential obstacles to its implementation. These fall into three major categories, namely insufficient financing, stakeholder resistance, and political structure. The most significant financial obstacle is the lack of funding if an IRWMP implementation grant is not received. Currently there is not an ability to raise more funds locally for many of these projects without seeking a two-thirds voter approval for a special tax. In addition, Santa Cruz County has an active and vocal stakeholder community who may oppose certain projects for a number of reasons, including, but not limited to:

a. An extremely strong conservation ethic in the County. b. Concerns about the impacts of projects on the natural and/or human

environments. c. A view that projects that enhance water supply reliability are

“growth-inducing” d. Local concerns about the impacts of individual projects.

Finally, most political bodies that are responsible for providing water service in the County are not exclusively focused on water. This is a challenging environment in which to get elected officials to devote the necessary attention and political capital to these important projects. Mechanisms to Overcome These Obstacles The primary way we will address these obstacles, and hopefully prevent them from occurring, is by strengthening and enhancing the regional collaborations; developing more public/private partnerships; keeping elected officials informed of efforts and progress; and involving more stakeholders and the public in the expansion and update of the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan. More public education and outreach about the IRWMP is a component of the Plan expansion. Outreach to Stakeholders for Selected Individual Projects Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge A conjunctive use project and feasibility study has been discussed at every Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin Advisory Committee (SMGBAC) meeting in 2003 and 2004 and the project remains a permanent agenda item. The County Water Advisory Commission (WAC) is kept apprised of developments in the Santa Margarita Basin because it is an on-going agendized topic. In 2004 the WAC specifically discussed the conjunctive use project in Feb., Mar., Aug., Sept., and Oct. The Commission consists of


163

seven members, five of whom are concerned citizens appointed by individual supervisors and two that are appointed at-large. The two at-large positions represent public water purveyors and private or mutual water companies in the County. Three Water Advisory Commissioners also attended a September 16, 2004 field trip to the proposed project site. The Board of Supervisors was informed about the proposed project most recently on October 19, 2004, and November 16, 2004 when the Board accepted and filed a report on the “Status of a Conjunctive Use Feasibility Study for the Lower San Lorenzo Valley.” The feasibility study project has been discussed at numerous meetings of the Interagency Water Resources Working Group, most recently on September 29, 2004. This group consists of general managers of water agencies in the county and a representative from the County. County staff highlighted the need for this project and the potential benefits to the Lower San Lorenzo Valley at the September 2003 Local Group Realtors meeting in Scotts Valley. County consultants provided outreach to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Department of Fish and Game.

Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program Through the NPDES Phase II permit process, the County of Santa Cruz has involved stakeholders in the stormwater pollution prevention program. A public forum was held May 14, 2003, and over 31 people attended, representing 14 agencies or organizations. A follow-up letter was sent February 26, 2004 to the stakeholder group describing the status of the Phase II permit application, and progress with the stormwater program. County stormwater managers maintain open communications and have good participation from local stakeholders organizations including NRCS, MBNMS, Ecology Action, Save our Shores, Coastal Watershed Council, and NOAA among others. These events/meetings are not exclusively outreach for the Stormwater Management Plan; they are also a means to keep informed about watershed/water quality activities going on in the area. Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Plant The City of Santa Cruz conducted public outreach for desalination strategies in conjunction with the Alternative Water Supply Project (2002), which was a key input to the City’s Integrated Water Plan (IWP 2003), which was also developed in a very open, public process. A committee was formed that reported to the City’s Water Commission. This committee, which included three members of the water commission and three members of the City Council, in addition to one ex-officio member, who was an employee of the County Supervisors’ office, oversaw the IWP development. Special care was taken to ensure that members were representative of the community. Two large and well-attended public workshops were held to inform and solicit direct input from the public.

Soquel Creek Water District began an extensive process to develop its Integrated Resources Plan in 1997 by forming a 20-member Public Advisory Committee (PAC). PAC members, who represented homeowner and business associations, environmental groups, government agencies and private well owners within the District’s service area, met for two years. The PAC completed and agreed upon the critical elements that would assist the District in the development of an Integrated Resources Plan, including the identification of both local and regional supplemental water supply projects to pursue.


164

The regional desalination project with the City of Santa Cruz emerged as one of three preferred alternatives from this process. The District has continued to inform the public about groundwater concerns and the supplemental supply options through newsletters, presentations, information booths at community events, and public hearings.

Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Because the community of Davenport narrowly misses the statewide MHI threshold to be considered a “disadvantaged community,” the Sanitation District conducted an income survey of the entire community in summer 2004, in attempts to qualify for a state Revolving Fund Loan. As part of this survey, approximately 500 individual residents were contacted via letter regarding the need for the drinking water improvement project, and two town hall meetings were held.

Watsonville Sloughs IWRP The projects to be implemented in the Watsonville Sloughs IWRP were identified in the Watershed Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan (WSCEP). The WSCEP was developed in a collaborative manner by resource agencies, public interest groups and individuals with a stake in the management and protection of the Sloughs under the direction of a steering committee representative of the stakeholders in the watershed. Staff from the City of Watsonville also participated. Plan development was overseen by the County of Santa Cruz and funded by the Coastal Conservancy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP)- Phase 2 This program, administered by the County Resource Conservation District, implements projects recommended in five watershed conservation and enhancement plans (Scotts Creek, San Lorenzo, Soquel, Aptos, and Arana). Each plan was developed with input from stakeholders and regulatory agencies in the watersheds of the planning region between 2002 and 2004. Progress on implementation is reported in a quarterly newsletter, as well as at “Blue Circle” meetings - quarterly gatherings of agencies involved in watershed protection, including public agencies, units of government, and nonprofit organizations that have jurisdiction or concerns in Santa Cruz County watersheds. The IWRP program includes a permit coordination component. A community outreach meeting for the Permit Coordination Program was held on March 23, 2004 and included representatives of fifteen different environmental groups. Agency coordinating meetings were held separately on multiple occasions with representatives from NOAA Fisheries, Army Corps of Engineers, California Department of Fish and Game, US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Regional Water Quality Control Board. In addition, there are Technical Advisory Committees comprised of local stakeholders and experts for each of the components of the IWRP program. The California Coastal Conservancy has been integral to the development and implementation of the IWRP.


165

S. Coordination Adopting Agencies The following agencies partnered in the development of this preliminary IRWMP and will adopt the plan in 2005: County of Santa Cruz (Public Works Dept. and Environmental Health Services) Santa Cruz County Sanitation District Soquel Creek Water District Scotts Valley Water District Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District Davenport Sanitation District

Participating Agencies:

These agencies are key partners in implementing specific projects: Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County City of Santa Cruz City of Watsonville Watsonville Wetlands Watch Central Water District

IWRP Partners

NOAA Fisheries US Fish and Wildlife Service US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Conservation Service CA Department of Fish and Game Regional Water Quality Control Board 3 Coastal Conservancy Coastal Commission CA Department of Forestry CA Department of Parks and Recreation Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Fishnet4C Santa Cruz County RCD Coastal Watershed Council County Dept of Environmental Health County Dept of Public Works County Dept of Planning City of Santa Cruz City of Capitola City of Watsonville Arana Gulch Watershed Alliance Scotts Creek Watershed Council Watsonville Wetlands Watch Sustainable Conservation


166

State Agencies The following state agencies were consulted by the partner agencies during development of IRWMP projects: California Department of Water Resources California Department of Fish and Game Regional Water Quality Control Board 3 State Coastal Conservancy California Coastal Commission California Department of Forestry California Department of Parks and Recreation

As documented in Section P, all of the projects have been developed in accordance with Statewide planning priorities. To the best of our knowledge, none of the projects will require State agency assistance for implementation and regulatory decisions will be made through the planning process. Federal Agencies The following federal agencies were consulted by Santa Cruz partner agencies during development of certain IRWMP projects: NOAA Fisheries US Fish and Wildlife Service US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Conservation Service Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary US Fish and Wildlife Service


167

Regional and Local Coordination The following agencies within the planning region have collaborated with the partner agencies during development of IRWMP projects and/or will assist with implementation: Santa Cruz County Department of Planning Santa Cruz County Parks Department City of Santa Cruz Water Department Coastal Watershed Council Santa Cruz Harbor District Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Central Water District San Lorenzo Valley Water District Lompico County Water District California Coastal Commission

Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) Partners NOAA Fisheries US Fish and Wildlife Service US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Conservation Service CA Department of Fish and Game Regional Water Quality Control Board 3 Coastal Conservancy Coastal Commission CA Department of Forestry CA Department of Parks and Recreation Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Fishnet4C Santa Cruz County RCD Coastal Watershed Council County Dept of Environmental Health County Dept. of Public Works County Dept of Planning City of Santa Cruz City of Capitola City of Watsonville Arana Gulch Watershed Alliance Scotts Creek Watershed Council Watsonville Wetlands Watch Sustainable Conservation

Appendix A Federally Listed Plant and Animal Species in Santa Cruz County

Type Common Name State Status Enlist Date

Federal Status Enlist Date Endemic to Santa Cruz

Invertebrates California Brackishwater Snail

- - Species of concern -

Arachnids Dollof Cave Spider - - Species of concern - Empire Cave

Pseudoscorpion - - Species of concern -

Crustaceans Mackenzie’s Cave Amphipod

- - Species of concern -

Insects Globos Dune Beetle - - Species of concern - Monarch Butterfly - - Species of concern - Mount Hermon June Beetle - - Endangered 1997 x Ohlone Tiger Beetle - - Endangered 2001 x Smith’s Blue Butterfly - - Endangered 1976 Unfiltered Fritillary

Butterfly - - Species of Concern -

Zayante Band-Winged Grasshopper

- - Endangered 1997 x

Fishes Coho Salmon Endangered 1995 Threatened 1996 Steelhead - - Threatened 1997 Tidewater Goby - - Endangered 1994 Amphibians California Red-Legged Frog - - Threatened 1996 California Tiger Salamander - - Species of Concern 2000 Foothill Yellow-Legged

Frog - - Species of Concern -

Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander

Endangered 1971 Endangered 1967

Reptiles Black Legless Lizard - - Species of Concern 2000 San Francisco Garter Snake Endangered 1971 Endangered 1967 Southwestern Pond Turtle - - Species of Concern - Western Pond Turtle - - Species of Concern - Birds Bank Swallow Threatened 1989 - - Black Swift - - Species of Concern - Burrowing Owl - - Species of Concern - California Black Rail Threatened 1971 - - Cooper’s Hawk - - Species of Concern - Marbled Murrelet Endangered 1992 Threatened 1992 Saltmarsh Common

Yellowthroat - - Species of Concern

Tricolored Blackbird - - Species of Concern Western Snowy Plover - - Threatened 1993 Mammals Townsend’s Western Big-

Eared Bat - - Species of Concern -

Type Common Name State Status Enlist Date

Federal Status Enlist Date Endemic to Santa Cruz

Plants Ben Lomond Buckwheat - - Species of Concern - x Ben Lomond Spineflower - - Endangered 1994 x Bent Flowered Fiddleneck - - Species of Concern - Blasdale’s Bent Grass - - Species of Concern - Bonny Doon Manzanita - - Species of Concern - x Bristly Sedge - - Species of Concern - Caper-Fruited

Tropidocarpium - - Species of Concern -

Coast Wallflower - - Species of Concern - Congdon’s Tarplant - - Species of Concern - Deceiving Sedge - - Species of Concern - Dudley’s Lousewort Rare 1979 Species of Concern - Hooker’s Manzanita - - Species of Concern - Kellogg’s Horkelia - - Species of Concern - Loma Prieta Hoita - - Species of Concern - Maple-Leaved

Chekerbloom - - Species of Concern -

Marsh Sandwort Endangered 1990 Endangered 1993 Monterey Pine - - Species of Concern - Monterey Spineflower - - Threatened - Pajaro Manzanita - - Species of Concern - Pine Rose - - Species of Concern - Robust Spineflower - - Endangered 1994 San Francisco Campion - - Species of Concern - San Francisco Popcorn-

Flower Endangered 1979 Species of Concern -

Sand Gilia Threatened 1987 Endangered 1992 Santa Cruz Clover - - Species of Concern - Santa Cruz Cypress Endangered 1979 Endangered 1987 Santa Cruz Manzanita - - Species of Concern - Santa Cruz Microseris - - Species of Concern - Santa Cruz Mountains

Beardtongue - - Species of Concern -

Santa Cruz Tarplant Endangered 1979 Threatened 2000 Santa Cruz Wallflower Endangered 1981 Endangered 1994 x Schreiber’s Manzanita - - Species of Concern - Scott’s Valley Polygonum - - Proposed Endangered 2000 x Scotts Valley Spineflower - - Endangered 1994 x Swamp Harebell - - Species of Concern - White-Rayed Pentachaeta Endangered 1992 Endangered 1995

Appendix B Santa Cruz County Economic Forecast

Nor

ther

n Sa

nta

Cruz

Cou

nty

Prel

imin

ary

IRW

MP

App

endi

x C

-1

App

endi

x C

Pl

ans R

efer

ence

d

Plan

Elec

troni

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opy

Har

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opy

Wat

ersh

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lans

A

ptos

Cre

ek W

ater

shed

Ass

essm

ent a

nd E

nhan

cem

ent P

lan

(Apr

il 20

03)

X

A

rana

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ch W

ater

shed

Enh

ance

men

t Pla

n Ph

ase

1: S

teel

head

and

Sed

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t A

sses

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ebru

ary

2002

) X

Low

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o R

iver

Enh

ance

men

t Pla

n (D

ecem

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002)

X

San

Lore

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alm

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Enh

ance

men

t Pla

n (M

arch

200

4)

X

Sa

n Lo

renz

o R

iver

Wat

ersh

ed M

anag

emen

t Pla

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979)

X

San

Lore

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er W

ater

shed

Man

agem

ent P

lan

Upd

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(Dec

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r 200

1)

X

Lo

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San

Lor

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Riv

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n M

anag

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t Pla

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anua

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Prev

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San

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Con

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in th

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(200

4)

X

San

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t (19

95)

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A

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tream

bed

Con

ditio

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rosio

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rts in

the

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ater

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(199

8)

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reek

Wat

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ovem

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Soqu

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reek

Lag

oon

Man

agem

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pdat

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even

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for C

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(200

3)

X

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ovem

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X

Wat

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Res

ourc

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and

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3)

X

X

Nor

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x C

-2

Plan

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troni

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of S

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Cro

ssin

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vent

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and

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Pas

sage

Ev

alua

tion

(Mar

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004)

X

Zyan

te A

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y (2

001)

X

TMD

L Pl

ans

X

Sa

n Lo

renz

o R

iver

Nitr

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TMD

L (2

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undw

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Man

agem

ent P

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and

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S.V

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. Gro

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am, A

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2003

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entra

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agem

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(199

6)

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a C

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& C

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f Cap

itola

Sto

rmw

ater

Pol

lutio

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even

tion

Prog

ram

X

X

Urb

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Man

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ent P

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/Inte

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Pla

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City

of S

anta

Cru

z U

rban

Wat

er M

anag

emen

t Pla

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000)

X

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

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istric

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an W

ater

Man

agem

ent P

lan

Upd

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(200

0)

X

S.

V.W

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Con

tinge

ncy

Plan

(1

999)

X

X

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of S

anta

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IWR

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ve Y

ear P

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(May

200

2)

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Pla

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and

Use

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Gen

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Pla

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Net

4C

Impl

emen

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n Pl

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X

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Appendix D Relationship between Northern Santa Cruz County IRWMP Objectives and

State IRWMP Guidelines; and

IRWMP Projects by Water Management Strategy

Relationship Between Objectives and IRWM Plan Standards ‘Water Management Strategies’ The IRWM Plan Standards in Appendix A of the Grant Program Guidelines include, as Table A-1, a set of Water Management Strategies to be considered in the IRWM Plan. As the Steering Committee developed the plan objectives, it was cognizant of the relevant items in this table. While the intent of the Committee was to develop a set of planning objectives that fit the specific needs of Santa Cruz County, it is important to point out the direct relationships between these objectives and the items in Table A-1. Table A-1 appears to include two different types of components, which can broadly be classified as ‘ends’ and ‘means’. As indicated above, the ends are analogous to what we have called ‘objectives.’ The means are ways of achieving those ends, and are more analogous to what we have called ‘projects’. While a few components could arguably be classified as either an ‘end’ or a ‘mean’, one logical way to classify the components of Table A-1 is as follows: Ends

Ecosystem Restoration Environmental and habitat protection and improvement Water Supply Reliability

Flood management Groundwater management

Recreation and public access Storm water capture and management Water quality protection and improvement

Means

Water conservation

Water recycling Wetlands enhancement and creation Conjunctive use

Desalination Imported water

Land use planning

NPS pollution control Surface storage

Watershed planning Water and wastewater treatment

Water transfers

The following table shows that each of the ‘ends’ of Table A-1 corresponds to one or more of the Santa Cruz County planning objectives. As described above, the Santa Cruz County IRWMP includes additional objectives that go beyond the ‘ends’ specified in Table A-1 because those objectives have been deemed critical to the county’s water management needs.

Table A-1 ‘Ends’ Santa Cruz County Planning Objectives

Ecosystem Restoration

Habitat Restoration & Maintenance: Aquatic Terrestrial Ocean

Environmental and habitat protection and improvement


Water Supply Reliability Water Supply Reliability Flood management Flood Management

Groundwater management Water Supply Reliability Raw Water Quality:

Ground Recreation and public access Recreation

Storm water capture and management

Water Supply Reliability Raw Water Quality

Surface Ground


Water quality protection and improvement

Raw Water Quality Surface Ground

Public Health

IRWMP Projects Grouped by Water Management Strategy

Imported Water None of the projects considered in this plan involve the importation of water. Santa Cruz County residents are entirely dependent on local surface and groundwater supplies. Groundwater Management High Priority Projects

- Santa Cruz County Abandoned Well Destruction Program

- San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades - Polo Grounds Park -Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines and Water

Conservation Project - Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations

- Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas - Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project

- Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Potential future Projects

- St. Francis Sewer Improvement Project - Bowker Road/Freedom Blvd. Sewer

- Freedom Boulevard Sewer Improvement Project - Greater Pasatiempo Sewer Improvement Project

- Rolling Green Sewer Improvement Project - Lower Manfre Road Sewer Improvement Project

- Green Valley Road Sewer Improvement Project - Amesti Road Sewer Improvement Project

- Upper Manfre Road/Valdez Drive Sewer Improvement

- Boulder Creek Country Club Sewer Replacement

Conjunctive Use Projects Ready to Proceed

- Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge - Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project

Water Recycling Projects Ready to Proceed

- Recycled Water Distribution Extension System Potential future Projects

- Satellite Reclamation Plants Project

Desalination Projects Ready to Proceed

- Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project

Potential future Projects - Final Engineering and Construction of Desalination Project

Water Conservation Projects Ready to Proceed

- Polo Grounds Park -Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines and Water Conservation Project

Potential Future Projects

- Davenport Water Management Planning

Water Transfers None of the projects considered in this plan involve water transfers.

Surface Storage Projects Ready to Proceed

- none

Potential Future Projects - Participation in Conjunctive Use Project in Butano Formation, Upper

Soquel Creek Watershed

- Coast Dairies Agricultural Water Supply

Water and Wastewater Treatment Projects Ready to Proceed

- San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades - Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project - Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach


- St. Francis Sewer Improvement Project - Bowker Road/Freedom Blvd. Sewer - Freedom Boulevard Sewer Improvement Project - Greater Pasatiempo Sewer Improvement Project - Rolling Green Sewer Improvement Project - Lower Manfre Road Sewer Improvement Project - Upper Manfre Road/Valdez Drive Sewer Improvement - Green Valley Road Sewer Improvement Project

- Amesti Road Sewer Improvement Project - Boulder Creek Country Club Sewer Replacement

- Davenport Water Security - Davenport SCADA Communications

- SCADA Systems for Sanitation Pump Stations Non-point Source Pollution Control Projects Ready to Proceed

- Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program - Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase II)

- Watsonville Sloughs IWRP - Regionwide Master Drainage Plan

- San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades Potential Future Projects

- Greater Pasatiempo Sewer Improvement Project

- St. Francis Sewer Improvement Project - Bowker Road/Freedom Blvd. Sewer

- Freedom Boulevard Sewer Improvement Project - Amesti Road Sewer Improvement Project

- Lower Manfre Road Sewer Improvement Project - Upper Manfre Road/Valdez Drive Sewer Improvement

- Rolling Green Sewer Improvement Project - Landslide Stabilization and Dewatering Program

- Green Valley Road Sewer Improvement Project

- Rolling Green Sewer Improvement Project

- Boulder Creek Country Club Sewer Replacement - Land Acquisition for Road Spoils Storage Site

- Residential Erosion Prevention /Assistance Program - Public Works/Agricultural Nexus

- Integrated Pest Management/Pesticide Reduction (Phase II)

Storm Water Capture and Management Projects Ready to Proceed

- Regionwide Drainage Master Plan - Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program

- Enhance & Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

Potential Future Projects - Stormwater Program Data Management System

- Stormwater Program Asset Management System - Update County Stormwater Website

- Implement Drainage Infrastructure Retrofit Projects - Real-time Stormwater Monitoring and Forecasting for Watersheds - Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (next phase)

Flood Management Projects Ready to Proceed

- Regionwide Drainage Master Plan - Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

- Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project - Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge


- Implement Drainage Infrastructure Retrofit Projects - Streambank Restoration and Recovery Program

- Real-time Stormwater Monitoring and Forecasting for Watersheds

Recreation and Public Access Projects Ready to Proceed

- Watsonville Sloughs IWRP - Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach



- Streambank Restoration and Recovery Program - Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase 3)

- Watsonville Sloughs IWRP (Phase 2)

Wetlands Enhancement and Creation Projects Ready to Proceed

- Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program

- Watsonville Sloughs IWRP - Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase II)


- Streambank Restoration and Recovery Program - Integrated Watershed Restoration Program Phase 3

- Implement Drainage Infrastructure Retrofit Projects - Watsonville Sloughs IWRP (Phase 2)

Environmental and Habitat Protection and Improvement Projects Ready to Proceed

- Integrated Watershed Restoration Program – Phase 2

- Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge - Watsonville Sloughs IWRP

- Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program - San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades

- Relocate Sewer From New Brighton State Beach

Potential Future Projects - Residential Erosion Prevention /Assistance Program

- Streambank Restoration and Recovery Program

- St. Francis Sewer Improvement Project

- Greater Pasatiempo Sewer Improvement Project - Freedom Boulevard Sewer Improvement Project

- Bowker Road/Freedom Blvd. Sewer - Landslide Stabilization and Dewatering Program

- Amesti Road Sewer Improvement Project - Lower Manfre Road Sewer Improvement Project

- Upper Manfre Road/Valdez Drive Sewer Improvement - Rolling Green Sewer Improvement Project

- Green Valley Road Sewer Improvement Project - Coast Dairies Agricultural Water Supply

- Boulder Creek Country Club Sewer Replacement - Land Acquisition for Road Spoils Storage Site

- Integrated Pest Management/Pesticide Reduction (Phase 2) - Public Works/Agriculture Nexus

Watershed Planning Projects Ready to Proceed

- Update and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan


Land Use Planning None of the projects considered in this effort fall into this category. Water Supply Reliability High Priority Projects

- Santa Cruz County Abandoned Well Destruction Program - San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades


- Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations - Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas

- Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project - Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge

- Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project

- Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project

Descriptions of High Priority Projects

1. San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades Provides grants for individual septic system upgrades in order to reduce the input of nitrates and pathogens into the San Lorenzo River. This project will help finance improvements to the substandard septic systems that drain into the San Lorenzo River, which is a recreational resource and the primary water source for the City of Santa Cruz. The project will result in reduced septic failures and reduction in levels of nitrate and pathogens in the River. Approximately 10% of the existing 13,000 septic systems are on parcels that cannot meet current standards and will ultimately require the use of alternative technologies or small community sewer systems. Both of these approaches represent significant cost to the property owner, many of whom are low to moderate income. This project will greatly accelerate the rate at which upgrades are completed and water quality is improved. Multiple benefits of this project include protecting raw water quality of both surface and groundwater, restoring and maintaining aquatic and ocean/lagoon habitats, protecting public health and promoting regional collaboration. Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

2. Abandoned Well Destruction Program Identifies and destroys old wells which can act as conduits for contaminants to enter groundwater. Many municipal water supply wells are located in agricultural or urban areas, which often have contamination in the upper soil. In January 2002, the County Board of Supervisors directed that a program be developed for the identification and destruction of abandoned wells in critical groundwater resource areas. Negotiations with local water agencies are underway to do a pilot program. The cost of well destruction can be a deterrent for property owners. This program will help locate abandoned wells and provide grants to landowners for proper destruction. The project will protect water supply reliability and groundwater quality, reduce nonpoint source pollution inputs and protect public health. Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

3. Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Establishes the feasibility of a regional water storage project to provide reliable drinking water to the lower San Lorenzo River watershed, and increase baseflow to streams. Water levels in the Santa Margarita Aquifer System have been significantly drawn down in the last two decades. This project will establish the feasibility of using existing sand quarries in the San Lorenzo Watershed for settling and percolation ponds to recharge the aquifer. It will establish energy and materials costs to build a pumping station, and diversion rates of nearby surface waters. Multiple benefits of this project include protecting water supply reliability and groundwater quality, improving surface water

quality by improving baseflows to streams, flood control and stormwater management benefits, fostering regional collaboration and enhancing the regional economy.

Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

4. Regionwide Drainage Master Plan Completes a master plan for stormwater drainage in northern Santa Cruz County that will facilitate compliance with Clean Water Act regulations. Together with the Flood Control Districts and Santa Cruz County Sanitation District, the County Department of Public Works proposes to: complete a hydrologic analysis of watersheds in the County; complete a hydraulic evaluation of the drainage systems; look for areas of illicit discharge into storm sewer systems; conduct analyses for proposed improvements; and computerize facility management systems. The public will be involved in the development of the master plan. This project will aid in managing polluted runoff and making improvements for flood control. Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

5. Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program Implements priority elements of the countywide stormwater management plan. In order to comply with the Clean Water and Porter-Cologne Acts, cities and counties must take steps to reduce the amount of polluted runoff discharged through stormwater into Monterey Bay. A multi-agency plan has been developed to address the six elements of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Phase II Rule: Public Education, Public Involvement, Construction Activities, Post-Construction Activities, Municipal Operations, and Detection and Elimination of Illicit Connections. This project will implement priority items identified in the plan. Multiple benefits include protecting surface and ground water quality, maintaining ocean, aquatic and terrestrial habitats protecting public health, promoting regional collaboration and maximizing the recreational value of local water resources. \

Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

6. Enhance and Protect Groundwater Recharge Areas Implement projects, acquire key properties and establish policies and ordinances to protect and restore groundwater recharge. Santa Cruz County Public Works Department will conduct an analysis of drainage facilities located in primary groundwater recharge areas in fall 2005, with assistance from a Prop 13 Coastal Non-point Source Pollution Control grant. This analysis will provide a prioritized list of sites and drainage facilities with good potential for enhancing groundwater recharge. This project will implement the highest priority projects that may include daylighting culverts, creating grassy swales, use of retention and detention ponds

and associated land acquisition either through easement or fee title. County policies, programs and regulations will be reviewed and updated to enhance requirements and incentives for protection and restoration of recharge during new development and remodel projects. This project will assist in the implementation of those policies. Restoration of groundwater recharge capabilities will also be considered as a means for meeting demand offset requirements to mitigate increased demand for water supply for new development. This will increase underground water supplies, increase summer stream baseflows, improve runoff water quality, improve aquatic habitat, and reduce runoff, erosion, and downstream flooding. Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

7. Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach Moves a main sewer line off New Brighton State Beach to avoid sewage spills onto the public beach and into Monterey Bay. A main sanitary sewer line is currently located in the sand on New Brighton State Beach. This line has broken several times in the past, spewing sewage into the sensitive waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and it is capable of breaking again. The California Coastal Commission requires its removal. The Sanitation District intends to move the line inland from its present location, and upgrade sanitation facilities for the park and adjacent neighborhoods at the same time. Multiple benefits of this project include maintaining ocean habitats, protecting the recreational value of a popular beach, and protecting public health.

Responsible Agency: Santa Cruz County Sanitation District 8. Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project Completes preliminary engineering for the construction of a facility to provide a supplemental source of drinking water for approximately 135,000 Santa Cruz County residents. Soquel Creek Water District is entirely dependent on groundwater from coastal aquifers threatened by seawater intrusion. The City of Santa Cruz depends primarily on surface water, and has insufficient water resources to meet demand during a drought. Both agencies are evaluating supplemental water supply options. A recent feasibility study concluded that a regional desalination facility is a viable project. It would allow Soquel Creek Water District to reduce pumping from the coastal aquifer, and provide dry-year water supply to the City of Santa Cruz. An Environmental Impact Report for the desalination strategy will be completed in November 2005. This will be followed by an EIR of Conjunctive Use Alternatives for Soquel Creek Water District in Fall 2005. The City of Santa Cruz will construct and operate a pilot plant in 2006. This project provides engineering for a full-scale plant based on the results of the pilot study. Benefits

of the project include protecting water supply reliability and groundwater quality, maintaining aquatic and ocean/lagoon habitats, maximizing the recreational value of local waters, protecting public health and promoting regional collaboration. Responsible Agency: Soquel Creek Water District

9. Polo Grounds Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation Project

Redistributes municipal groundwater pumping to a new inland location, improving groundwater management especially with regard to seawater intrusion; installs a sanitary sewer line to serve a 62 acre community park and adjacent neighborhood, and implements significant water conservation measures. This project involves acquiring an irrigation well at Polo Grounds Park, adding an iron and manganese treatment plant to meet drinking water standards, and extending the County’s sanitary sewer main to the well site to handle waste from the plant and new park restrooms. The sewer line extension will allow homeowners along North Drive to connect to the sanitary sewer and abandon their septic systems, providing added protection for water quality in nearby Valencia Creek. The project will provide potable water for the park, which currently has no water service. The final phase of the project involves replacing irrigated turf on the six ball fields at Polo Grounds Park with synthetic turf. This will conserve water, improve recreational use, eliminate the use of herbicides and fertilizers on the fields, and increase water production for other beneficial uses. The local cost share for the synthetic turf will come from developers seeking to satisfy their water demand offset requirements for new development projects. Multiple benefits of this project include protecting water supply reliability, enhancing raw water quality of surface and groundwater, protecting aquatic and ocean/lagoon habitats, enhancing public recreation, protecting public health and promoting collaboration between agencies in the region.

Responsible Agency: Soquel Creek Water District

10. Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations Installs four to six new groundwater monitoring wells in both coastal and inland locations to monitor saltwater intrusion, improve groundwater management and detect groundwater contamination before it reaches production wells. Monitoring wells will be installed in strategic locations identified in a 2004 study. Data from these locations will help document the northward movement of saltwater and changes, both positive and negative, in groundwater storage. These locations are not currently monitored, and data from the wells will also be useful to the City of Santa Cruz, and neighboring water agencies including Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency.

Multiple benefits include ensuring water supply reliability, protecting ground water quality, adding value to the regional economy and promoting collaboration among regional water management agencies.

Responsible Agency: Soquel Creek Water District 11. Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project Replaces the water treatment plant and upgrades transmission lines, water mains and storage facilities in the Community of Davenport. The Safe Drinking Water Act has established new rules for treatment of surface water. The water treatment plant at Davenport must be modernized in order to meet these new standards. The delivery system and water tank will be upgraded to meet standards for fire protection, and water rights issues will be clarified. Multiple benefits of this project include ensuring water supply reliability and protecting public health. Responsible Agency: Davenport Sanitation District

12. Watsonville Sloughs IWRP Restores wetland habitats and natural function in Watsonville Slough by improving the existing system of agricultural and stormwater drainage and other enhancements. The recently completed Watsonville Sloughs Resource Conservation and Enhancement Plan recommends a diverse set of projects to be carried out with willing landowners. These include separating wetland habitat areas from the agricultural drainage system, replacing exotic invasive vegetation with native vegetation, acquiring habitat and increasing public access and education. The recommended projects will help relieve environmental stressors; buffer wetlands and sensitive areas from land use impacts, and help restore a functional ecosystem within the Sloughs. Multiple benefits include wetland restoration, flood control, stormwater management, surface and groundwater quality improvements, protecting ocean, terrestrial and aquatic habitats, providing public recreation, and promoting regional collaboration.

Responsible Agency: Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District

13. Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (Phase 2) Implements the second phase of a countywide watershed restoration program that emphasizes: water quality and fishery improvements, partnerships and inter-agency coordination, and a non-regulatory approach that encourages voluntary participation. Phase 2 has five main components. These are described in detail in Section H., which is devoted to IWRP.

a. Cost Share Program for Drainage and Road Improvements Provides technical assistance and financial incentives (grants) to road associations and private road owners to identify and correct erosion and drainage problems on their roads. Watershed assessments have identified rural roads as primary sources of fine sediment in stream systems. Fine sediments smother aquatic habitats, including salmon and steelhead spawning grounds. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary has identified erosion control on rural roads as a high priority in its Agriculture and Rural Lands Action Plan. This project will solicit, investigate and evaluate erosion problems on private roads, and provide technical assistance for design of corrective measures. It will provide grants for up to 75% of the cost of repairs, and provide training for contractors. The public will be involved in all plans. A successful pilot project was recently completed. Multiple benefits of the project include ensuring water supply reliability, protecting surface and groundwater quality, restoring aquatic, terrestrial and ocean habitats, protecting recreation values and public health, minimizing impacts from floods, enhancing the regional economy and promoting collaboration between regional water management agencies.

b. Culvert Replacements for Fish Passage and Erosion Control Upgrades or replaces cross-drain culverts and culverts at stream crossings on public roads in Santa Cruz County. When culverts fail, erosion and flooding are greatly accelerated. Over 50% of flood related damage in 1997 could be attributed to culvert failures. Culverts at some stream crossings affect the passage of salmon and steelhead. This project upgrades or replaces culverts to reduce erosion and flood risk and improve fish passage. Designs were completed for these projects under Phase I of the project, and all permits are in place. c. Implementation of Restoration Projects Roughly 70-80 projects designed in Phase 1, require funding to implement or construct. A grant from the Integrated Regional Water Management Program will allow these latter projects to be constructed or implemented in Phase 2.

d. Partners In Restoration Permit Coordination Program Implements the first county-wide permit coordination program to accelerate the number of projects done on private land. A Permit Coordinator will work with RCD staff and the NRCS to ensure that permit conditions are adhered to. Several IWRP projects will qualify for the permit coordination program, saving time and money. e. Watershed Education Program and Activity Guide Watershed Cruzin’, the IWRP watershed activity guide, provides 25 activities for grades 4-12 to develop students’ understanding of watershed processes and issues.

Responsible Agency: Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District

14. Four Recycled Water Distribution System Extensions in the Scotts Valley

Area Extends an existing recycled water line to four new areas around Scotts Valley, reducing pumping in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin to satisfy major landscaping water demands. The City of Scotts Valley installed a state of the art water recycling facility in 2002 at a cost of approximately $10 million. The facility treats about one million gallons per day of high quality, tertiary treated wastewater which is suitable for use in landscaping and irrigation. The system is currently under-utilized, and hundreds of thousands of gallons per day are disposed through the City of Santa Cruz Ocean outfall. This project would extend recycled water pipelines into four new areas: Hocus Pocus Park, Bean Creek area, Mt. Herman Road and the El Pueblo Loop. The total reductions in demand are estimated to be approximately 100 acre-feet per year. The project will require approximately 11, 600 feet of new pipeline. Multiple benefits include ensuring water supply reliability and restoring and maintaining aquatic and ocean habitats. Responsible Agency: Scotts Valley Water District

15. Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project Diverts excess high flows of surface water from an unnamed stream to an adjacent sand quarry to recharge the aquifer in the center of the El Pueblo Wellfield. Scotts Valley receives a relatively large amount of rainfall – an average 43 inches per year. However, impervious surfaces from development cover a large portion over 50% of the natural recharge areas. This has resulted in documented flash flooding and increased winter streamflows. Water will be diverted from the creek during excess flow periods, transported in to the adjacent former sand quarry, and used to recharge the aquifer in the center of the El Pueblo Wellfield. This wellfield has low levels of naturally occurring

arsenic that might be diluted by enhanced recharge on the site. Multiple benefits of this project include ensuring water supply reliability, protecting groundwater quality, maintaining and restoring aquatic habitats and minimizing impacts from floods. Responsible Agency: Scotts Valley Water District 16. Project Monitoring Establishes a program to evaluate the effectiveness of individual management strategies as they are implemented, as well as the integrated strategy as a whole. Measuring and understanding the effects of management strategies as they are implemented is key to evaluating the success of the overall effort. This will help achieve a better understanding of the synergistic effects of integration. This project will define and implement the Project Assessment and Evaluation Plan for high priority projects put forward for grant funding. This plan will be developed and coordinated with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary water quality monitoring program, the RWQCB and all other ongoing monitoring efforts. Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

17. Update and Expand Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Builds on the initial integrated planning effort by addressing certain planning elements in greater detail. Incorporates additional jurisdictions and establishes priorities for 2007-2010. The initial integrated regional planning effort for northern Santa Cruz County was formally accomplished in a fairly short timeframe (November 2004 – April 2005) in response to available state guidelines. The initial budget and scope of the planning effort was constrained by time and funding. Several agencies and jurisdictions overlying the planning area were not included in plan development, though information has been shared. This project would examine key planning elements in greater detail, provide integration of new projects and partners and establish a mechanism for adaptive management of water resources at a regional level. Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

In addition to these 17 projects, grant funding has been requested for Project Management and Administration to provide oversight, coordination, management and administration of high priority projects selected for grant funding. Clear channels of communication and processes for regular reporting will be established, and a central point of contact will be developed to manage an integrated regional water management grant. The goals of this effort will be to minimize overhead and administrative costs,

streamline reporting processes, facilitate additional integration, and implement projects in the most effective manner. Responsible Agency: County of Santa Cruz

Appendix E Water Quality and Water Quantity Monitoring Efforts in Santa Cruz County

Water Quality Santa Cruz County Monitoring Efforts Santa Cruz County Beach Water Quality Santa Cruz County Environmental Health Service (EHS) has conducted regular testing of freshwater and saltwater swimming areas at 120 sites throughout Santa Cruz County since 1968. This effort is affiliated with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Integrated Monitoring Network. It tests for total coliform levels of both E. coli and Enterococcus. Project information web link: http://www.mbnms-simon.org/sections/waterQuality/projects.php?sec=wq Santa Cruz County Environmental Health Services- Nitrate Monitoring This program monitors nitrate levels in Aptos, Soquel, Valencia, Corralitos, and Pajaro streams biannually. Environmental Health Services has monitored nitrate levels in these county streams since 1986. Monitoring Bacteria and Nitrate in the San Lorenzo Watershed This effort has been conducted since 1986 and currently consists of monitoring bacteria and nitrate at 30 locations in the San Lorenzo Watershed. 20 stations are monitored monthly and the remaining 10 stations are monitored quarterly. Clean Streams Program There are several monitoring efforts conduced by the Coastal Watershed Council that fall under the Clean Streams Program. All programs measure water temperature, electrical conductivity, pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity. Each program also collects nutrient and bacteria samples for lab analysis.

Aptos Creek Clean Streams Program The program provides data pertaining to water quality objectives set by the State Water Quality Control Board (1994) and to the anadromous fish present in Aptos and Valencia Creeks. The program started in 1999 and covers 25 square miles. Project information web link: http://endeavor.des.ucdavis.edu/wpi/ProjectDescription.asp?ProjectPK=5484

Arana Gulch Clean Streams Pilot Project The goal of the project is to train and utilize volunteers to participate in monitoring the health of the Arana Gulch Watershed through water quality sampling, habitat assessment and participation in restoration activities. This program began in 1996 and covers 3 square miles of the Arana Gulch Watershed. Project information web link: http://endeavor.des.ucdavis.edu/wpi/ProjectDescription.asp?ProjectPK=3334

Clean Streams for Aptos, Branciforte, and Corralitos Watersheds This effort started in 2003 and is ongoing through 2004. Project information web link: http://www.coastal-watershed.org/Volunteer.htm

Urban Watch This monitoring effort has been ongoing since 2000 and is conducted by the Coastal Watershed Council, in coordination with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Citizen Monitoring Network. Trained volunteers monitor dry weather storm drain activity in selected outflow areas from July through October, and identify common pollutants/contaminants within the storm drains in the study area. At least six drainage inlets and outfalls are monitored in each participating city or locale. In 2004, Capitola, participated in this program, and in 2005, Urban Watch monitoring will also occur in the vicinity of Scotts Valley and Live Oak. Program volunteers collect water samples and conduct basic field analysis using an EPA approved LaMotte Storm Drain Pollution Detection Kit. The Storm Drain Kit includes tests for detergents, phenol, ammonia, chlorine, copper, pH, and turbidity. Project information web link: http://www.ice.ucdavis.edu/groups/GroupDescription.asp?GroupID=152&IPGroupPk=3666 Snapshot Day This statewide monitoring effort has been ongoing since 2000 and is conducted locally by the Coastal Watershed Council in coordination with the California Coastal Commission and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Citizen Monitoring Network. Temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and conductivity are measured in the field, while water samples are collected for laboratory analysis of nutrients and bacteria levels. Project information web link: http://www.coastal-watershed.org/Snapshot%20Day.htm First Flush Citizen Monitoring This monitoring effort has been ongoing since 2000 and is conducted by the Coastal Watershed Council in coordination with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Citizen Monitoring Network. Samples from storm drain runoff are analyzed for contaminants from non-point source pollution using an EPA approved storm drain pollution detection kit. The monitoring sites include a total of six drainage inlets and outfalls at each designated site. In 2004 this program occurred in Capitola and Santa Cruz and in 2005, it will be expanded to the Scotts Valley and Live Oak areas. Project information web link: http://www.coastal-watershed.org/Volunteer.htm Santa Cruz Blue Water Task Force This monitoring effort is conducted by the Santa Cruz Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation. Total coliform and E. coli are measured at 10 sites in Monterey Bay and weekly water quality testing is performed at 16 beach sites in the county. This effort has been ongoing since 1992.

Project information web link: http://www.surfridersantacruz.org/ http://www.mbnms.nos.noaa.gov/monitoringnetwork/ws_slorenzo.html Watershed Academy at San Lorenzo Valley High School Water quality and fecal coliform are measured. Program contact information is as follows: Terry Umstead, [email protected]. Project information web link: http://www.mbnms.nos.noaa.gov/monitoringnetwork/ws_slorenzo.html Soquel Demonstration State Forest Temperature monitoring has been done since 2000 in the upper east branch of Soquel Creek and tributaries that run through the forest; as well as Amaya Creek. Turbidity monitors have been purchased and it is anticipated that this monitoring will commence in the near future. (Details of the turbidity monitoring have not yet been developed). Project information web link: http://www.fire.ca.gov/php/rsrc-mgt_soquel.php Soquel Creek Lagoon Monitoring Dissolved oxygen, salinity, temperature, and conductivity are monitored in the Soquel Creek Lagoon from May to October, corresponding to sandbar closure and lagoon breaching. These water quality parameters are measured every two weeks at four locations. This effort has been ongoing since 1991. City of Santa Cruz Turbidity Trend Monitoring The City of Santa Cruz conducts turbidity trend monitoring to determine if turbidity impairs the operation of municipal water treatment facilities. The City operates a continuous reading turbidimeter located at the Tait Street Diversion, just above where Highway 1 crosses the River. San Lorenzo Valley Water District Turbidity Monitoring San Lorenzo Valley Water District operates continuous reading turbidimeters at three locations in the San Lorenzo Watershed. Turbidity meters are located at Foreman Creek, a tributary to Boulder Creek, and Clear Creek and Sweetwater Creek, tributaries to the Upper San Lorenzo River. Data collection occurs year-round to protect drinking water supplies. Monitoring Temperature in Soquel Creek Watershed-Soquel Creek Water District The Soquel Creek Water District collects temperature data at hourly intervals at the West Branch of Soquel Creek on Olsen Road and in Upper Soquel in the Olive Springs Quarry. This effort has been ongoing since 1997. Groundwater Monitoring in Soquel-Aptos areas – Soquel Creek Water District Analysis of groundwater quality is conducted as part of Soquel Creek Water District’s groundwater management activities. The District initiated a groundwater management program in the Purisima Formation in 1981. That network and program were expanded

into the Aromas Red Sands in 1986. Groundwater data is collected from a network of production and monitoring wells. There are 5 monitoring wells in the Aromas Red Sands and 10 monitoring wells in the Purisima Formation. Water Quality Monitoring-Scotts Valley Water District Scotts Valley Water District monitors surface water and groundwater quality. Groundwater quality has been monitored at various District production wells for Title 22 constituents since 1963 at least semi-annually. Groundwater quality is collected from three shallow monitoring wells in north Scotts Valley and tested for metals, nitrogen species, and general minerals. This effort has been ongoing since 2001 and data is currently collected semi-annually. Surface water quality is monitored at four sites on Carbonera Creek and three sites on Bean Creek for metals, nitrogen species, and general minerals. This effort has been ongoing since 2001 and data is currently collected semi-annually. San Lorenzo Wastewater Management Program The San Lorenzo Wastewater Management Program has been implemented by the Santa Cruz County Environmental Health Services since late 1985. Over 80 boreholes or shallow monitoring wells have been installed to evaluate soil and groundwater conditions. An average of about 1000 water samples per year are currently being collected to measure trends in water quality and identify problem areas. Groundwater and Gas Monitoring Around Buena Vista and Ben Lomond Landfills There is a network of groundwater monitoring wells around Buena Vista and Ben Lomond landfills that monitor the uppermost aquifer below and down gradient of the landfill. There is also a network of landfill gas monitoring wells surrounding the outer perimeter of all waste disposal areas. Groundwater monitoring is conducted quarterly and landfill gas monitoring, for methane, is conducted monthly. Groundwater and landfill monitoring at both sites started in the mid 1980's and has expanded over time as regulations have changed and the landfills have expanded. Wastewater Treatment Plant NPDES Self-Monitoring Programs Three NPDES self-monitoring programs are conducted in the county by the Watsonville, Santa Cruz Regional and Scotts Valley Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP). The Watsonville Treatment Plant has done monitoring since 1993 and the Scotts Valley Wastewater Treatment Plant since 1997. Each WWTP monitors for pollutants specified in the California Ocean Plan including flow, suspended solids, grease, oil, turbidity, and pH. Depending on the entity, these parameters are measured on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Each program also monitors for toxic pollutants such as metals and synthetic/organic compounds at least once during the life of each five-year permit. All parameters are measured in the effluent from the WWTP. Project information web links: Watsonville: http://gis.ca.gov/catalog/BrowseRecord.epl?id=841

http://www.sfei.org/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NCCA0048216

Santa Cruz: http://gis.ca.gov/catalog/BrowseRecord.epl?id=840 http://www.sfei.org/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NCCA0048194

Scotts Valley: http://www.sfei.ohttp://gis.ca.gov/catalog/BrowseRecord.epl?id=845 rg/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NCCA0048828

RMC Lonestar Santa Cruz Cement Plant - NPDES Self-Monitoring Program This monitoring has been ongoing since 1993 and consists of four monitoring stations in Monterey Bay. Representative samples of discharged, processed water are collected using standard grab methods and chemical concentrations are determined using standard chemical analyses. This program monitors pollutants specified in the Ocean Plan including flow, suspended solids, grease, oil, turbidity, and pH. Project information web link: http://gis.ca.gov/catalog/BrowseRecord.epl?id=844 http://www.sfei.org/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NCCA0048682 City of Santa Cruz Water Department- Water Resources Management General water quality monitoring is conducted including measurements for temperature, turbidity, and effects from logging at 11 to 15 locations in the following water bodies: San Lorenzo River, Liddell Creek, Laguna Creek, Majors Creek, and Newell Creek. Water Quality Monitoring in Accordance with NPDES Permits Various Santa Cruz County NPDES permittees conduct water quality monitoring for parameters such as PCBs, PAHs, TOCs, VOCs, pathogens, nitrogen, and biological contaminants. These monitoring efforts have been ongoing since 1975. A table of this water quality monitoring inventory is inclusive from 1975 to 1997 and is included in this appendix. Aquatic Protection Agency The Aquatic Protection Agency has been performing cruise ship and outfall monitoring in the Monterey Bay since 2002. Most testing takes place in Monterey County, but sites in Santa Cruz are tested when funding is available, or when special requests are made. Currently the APA is working on a program to monitor the dredging sediment at the Santa Cruz Harbor. As of June of 2005 the APA will be addressing more local concerns as they are converting from a 100% volunteer organization to staffing two full time employees. The Aquatic Protection Agency, a Santa Cruz-based non-profit organization conducts annual monitoring of nutrients, pesticides, toxicity, metals, pathogens, sediments, and all volatile and semi-volatile compounds in the coastal waters.

Central Coast Monitoring Efforts for Water Quality CI-CORE The CI-CORE program represents an applied coastal research alliance dedicated to the development of nationally relevant solutions to the challenges facing marine and estuarine environments. In-situ sensors are in place in Monterey Bay to measure oceanographic variables including temperature, salinity, and turbidity. Using a King Air twin-engine plane outfitted with sensors, researchers collect data to study algae blooms, kelp forests, and marsh grasses. Aircraft over-flights also provide high- resolution imaging. Project information web links: http://cicore.mlml.calstate.edu/ http://www.montereyherald.com/mld/montereyherald/news/10069142.htm Central Coast Ambient Monitoring Program (CCAMP) This effort is organized by the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board. Project information web link: http://www.ccamp.org/ Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program (SWAMP) SWAMP is a statewide monitoring effort designed to assess the conditions of surface waters throughout the state of California. The program is administered by SWRCB. Program components include chemical, toxicity, field data, and fish/shellfish tissue data collection; bacteria indicators; biological assessments; and habitat assessments in the following waterbodies: Scott Creek lagoon, Waddell Creek lagoon, San Lorenzo Estuary, Aptos Creek lagoon, Soquel Creek lagoon, Gazos Creek Lagoon, and Pajaro River at Main Street. Project information web links: http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/swamp/index.html waterbodies monitored are listed here: http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/swamp/docs/workplans/r3_0304wp.doc Central Coast Long-term Environmental Assessment Network (CCLEAN) CCLEAN is a long-term monitoring program designed to help municipal agencies and resource managers to protect the quality of nearshore marine waters in the Monterey Bay area. Begun in 2001, CCLEAN determines the sources, amounts and effects of contaminants reaching nearshore waters from WWTP effluent. Effluent from the Santa Cruz and Watsonville wastewater treatment plants is sampled for persistent organic pollutants (POPs), nutrients, and suspended sediments to obtain 30-day flow-proportioned samples in dry and wet seasons. Nearshore water is tested at two locations in Monterey Bay for concentrations of POPs, nutrients and bacteria in the dry season and in the wet season. Project information web links http://www.cclean.org/

Bay Protection and Toxic Cleanup Program This monitoring program has been an ongoing effort since 1990 and is administered by State Water Resource Control Board. Water quality is tested in Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz County. Project information web link: http://www.sfei.org/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NC2215091002 NOAA National Status and Trends Mussel Watch Program The NOAA Mussel Watch Project monitors chemical contamination in the coastal United States. Since 1986 mussels and oysters have been annually collected at more than 200 sites around the nation and chemically analyzed for a suite of trace elements, certain pesticides, PCBs, PAHs, and TBT. Water temperature data is also collected at each monitoring site. The program has a significant local presence. Project information web link: http://gis.ca.gov/catalog/BrowseRecord.epl?id=920 Long Marine Laboratory - NPDES Self-Monitoring Program Water quality is tested at two stations in Monterey Bay. This has been an ongoing effort since 1991. Project information web link: http://www.sfei.org/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NCCA0048496 Department of Water Resources, San Joaquin District, Water Quality Monitoring Program Water quality is tested at four stations in Santa Cruz County once a year. Project information web link: http://www.sfei.org/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NCCA000002 California State Mussel Watch Program This program is administered by California Department of Fish and Game. This effort has been ongoing since 1977 and consists of water quality monitoring in Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz County. Project information web link: http://gis.ca.gov/catalog/BrowseRecord.epl?id=800 http://www.sfei.org/camp/servlet/DisplayProgram?which=General&pid=NC221509033 PISCO Oceanographic instruments are deployed at five core sites along the coast of central California. Two sites are located within the region north of Monterey Bay (Sandhill Bluff and Terrace Point). These instruments, moored in 21 meters of water, provide continuous measurements of current and temperature profiles. The current meters detect whether water is moving onshore or offshore and for how long each of the transport phases lasts. The temperature profiles provide an indicator of upwelling. Upwelled water is colder than surface water. In addition, monthly measurements of salinity, temperature, and phytoplankton are collected at 17 stations on the 21 meter isobath along the central coast using a CTD.

Project information web link: http://piscoweb.org/what/campuses/ucsc.html Groundwater and Gas Monitoring Program Around Buena Vista and Ben Lomond Landfills This program consists of a network of groundwater monitoring wells around the Buena Vista and Ben Lomond landfills which monitor the uppermost aquifer below and down gradient of the landfill. There is also a network of landfill gas monitoring wells surrounding the outer perimeter of all waste disposal areas. Groundwater monitoring is conducted quarterly and landfill gas monitoring for methane is conducted monthly. Groundwater and landfill monitoring at both sites started in the mid 1980's and has expanded over time as regulations have changed and the landfills have expanded.

Water Quantity City of Santa Cruz Water Department- Water Resources Management The City measures water flow at 11 to 15 locations in the following water bodies: San Lorenzo River, Liddell Creek, Laguna Creek, Majors Creek, and Newell Creek. Monitoring Streamflow in Soquel Creek Watershed-Soquel Creek Water District Soquel Creek Water District has monitored streamflow and rainfall data since 1983 with the use of four gauges. One streamflow gauge is located at the West Branch of Soquel Creek on Olsen Road and the second is posited in Upper Soquel Creek on the Olive Springs Quarry. The two rainfall gauges are located at the West Branch of Soquel Creek on Laurel Road and in the Upper Branch of Soquel Creek at the end of Longridge Road. The US Geological Survey also jointly maintains a stream gauge with Soquel Creek Water District and the County on the lower Soquel Creek near Bridge Street. Streamflow data are measured with a pressure sensor and recorded on an electric data logger. Soquel Creek Water District staff visit the District’s gauge sites once a month to collect a month’s worth of data at a time. Streamflow Monitoring in Soquel Creek Watershed and San Lorenzo Valley Streamflow is measured once in the fall for the Soquel Creek Water District at five to six locations in the Soquel watershed. Streamflow is also measured for the San Lorenzo Valley Water District in the San Lorenzo watershed at eight to none locations in fall. Both efforts have been ongoing since 1997. Groundwater Monitoring in Soquel-Aptos Analysis of groundwater levels, aquifer storage and yield is conducted as part of Soquel Creek Water District’s groundwater management activities. The District initiated a groundwater management program in the Purisima Formation in 1981. That network and program were expanded into the Aromas Red Sands in 1986. Groundwater data is collected from a network of production and monitoring wells. There are 5 dedicated monitoring wells in the Aromas Red Sands and 10 dedicated monitoring wells in the Purisima Formation. The District also measures water levels at all production well sites.

Monitoring Streamflow in the San Lorenzo Watershed This effort has been conducted by Santa Cruz County Environmental Health Services since 1986. Streamflow is monitored quarterly at 30 stations within the San Lorenzo Watershed. Water Supply Monitoring-Scotts Valley Scotts Valley Water District maintains a water supply monitoring program which includes collection of rainfall, evaporation, evapotranspiration, streamflow, spring flow, and groundwater elevation data. Data is collected in a joint effort between Scotts Valley Water District, the City of Scotts Valley, USGS, the Mt. Herman Association, and Todd Engineers. Precipitation data is collected at El Pueblo Yard and at the wastewater treatment plant. Fifteen-minute recordings have been taken by the District daily at the El Pueblo Yard site since 1985. Five-minute recordings are taken daily by the City of Scotts Valley and data has been collected since 1990. Evaporation data is collected at El Pueblo Yard daily and monitoring has been ongoing since 1986. Evapotranspiration is monitored at De Laveaga Park in Santa Cruz monthly by the California Irrigation Management Information System. This has been an ongoing effort since 1990. Streamflow data is collected at three locations. Data is collected from Carbonera Creek at Carbonera Way Bridge daily in fifteen-minute recordings. This effort has been ongoing since 1985. The second location at Bean Creek near Scotts Valley at Mt. Hermon Crossing consists of fifteen-minute daily recordings. This effort has been ongoing since 1988. The third location at Eagle Creek in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park consists of semi-annual bucket-fall, flow-meter spring monitoring. Monitoring at this location has been ongoing since 2001. Spring flow has been monitored since 2001 at Ferndell and Redwood Spring at Mt. Herman Conference Center. Five-gallon bucket data collection is conducted semi-annually. Groundwater levels are monitored in the Santa Margarita aquifer and Lompico formation wells to the depth of the water quarterly. This effort has been ongoing since 1968.

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n Lo

renz

o W

ater

shed

. Sa

n Lo

renz

o V

alle

y W

ater

Dist

rict

Jam

es M

uelle

r (83

1) 4

30-4

625

Mon

itorin

g Te

mpe

ratu

re in

Soq

uel C

reek

W

ater

shed

C

olle

cts t

empe

ratu

re d

ata

at h

ourly

inte

rval

s at

the

Wes

t Bra

nch

of S

oque

l Cre

ek o

n O

lsen

Roa

d an

d in

Upp

er S

oque

l in

the

Oliv

e Sp

rings

Q

uarr

y.

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

er D

istric

t La

ura

Brow

n (8

31) 4

75-8

500

Gro

undw

ater

Mon

itorin

g in

Soq

uel-A

ptos

–

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

er D

istric

t G

roun

dwat

er d

ata

is co

llect

ed fr

om a

net

wor

k of

pr

oduc

tion

and

mon

itorin

g w

ells

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

er D

istric

t La

ura

Brow

n (8

31) 4

75-8

500

Surfa

ce W

ater

Mon

itorin

g in

Soq

uel-A

ptos

–

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

er D

istric

t

So

quel

Cre

ek W

ater

Dist

rict

Laur

a Br

own

(831

) 475

-850

0

Wat

er Q

ualit

y M

onito

ring-

Scot

ts V

alle

y W

ater

D

istric

t G

roun

dwat

er sa

mpl

es a

re c

olle

cted

from

thre

e sh

allo

w m

onito

ring

wel

ls in

Nor

th S

cotts

Val

ley

for m

etal

s, ni

troge

n sp

ecie

s, an

d ge

nera

l m

iner

als.

Scot

ts V

alle

y W

ater

Dist

rict

Jill D

uerig

(831

) 483

-236

3

Mon

itorin

g Pr

ogra

m

Pa

ram

eter

s Mea

sure

d O

rgan

izat

ion/

Con

tact

Surfa

ce w

ater

qua

lity

is m

onito

red

at fo

ur si

tes

in C

arbo

nera

and

thre

e si

tes o

n B

ean

Cre

ek fo

r m

etal

s, ni

troge

n sp

ecie

s, an

d ge

nera

l min

eral

s. Sa

n Lo

renz

o W

aste

wat

er M

anag

emen

t Pro

gram

Soil

and

grou

ndw

ater

con

ditio

ns a

re e

valu

ated

vi

a ov

er 8

0 bo

reho

les o

r sha

llow

mon

itorin

g w

ells.

An

aver

age

of a

bout

100

0 w

ater

sam

ples

ar

e cu

rren

tly b

eing

col

lect

ed p

er y

ear t

o m

easu

re

trend

s in

wat

er q

ualit

y an

d id

entif

y pr

oble

m

area

s.

Con

duct

ed b

y th

e Sa

nta

Cruz

Cou

nty

Envi

ronm

enta

l Hea

lth S

ervi

ces

Gro

undw

ater

and

Gas

Mon

itorin

g A

roun

d Bu

ena

Vist

a an

d B

en L

omon

d La

ndfil

ls

This

prog

ram

con

sists

of a

net

wor

k of

gr

ound

wat

er m

onito

ring

wel

ls ar

ound

the

Buen

a V

ista

and

Ben

Lom

ond

land

fills

whi

ch m

onito

r th

e up

perm

ost a

quife

r bel

ow a

nd d

own

grad

ient

of

the

land

fill.

Con

duct

ed b

y th

e Sa

nta

Cruz

Cou

nty

Publ

ic W

orks

D

epar

tmen

t Pa

trick

Mat

hew

s (83

1) 4

54-2

377

Was

te W

ater

Tre

atm

ent P

lant

NPD

ES S

elf-

Mon

itorin

g Pr

ogra

ms

Mon

itor f

low

, sus

pend

ed s

olid

s, gr

ease

, oil,

tu

rbid

ity, a

nd p

H.

Mon

itor f

or to

xic

pollu

tant

s suc

h as

met

als a

nd

synt

hetic

/org

anic

com

poun

ds a

t lea

st o

nce

durin

g lif

e of

the

perm

it.

Con

duct

ed b

y W

atso

nvill

e W

aste

Wat

er T

reat

men

t Pl

ant

Jeff

Har

tley

(831

) 728

-604

9

RM

C Lo

nest

ar S

anta

Cru

z C

emen

t - N

PDES

Sel

f-M

onito

ring

Prog

ram

Mon

itor f

low

, sus

pend

ed s

olid

s, gr

ease

, oil,

tu

rbid

ity, a

nd p

H.

C

ondu

cted

by

RM

C L

ones

tar S

anta

Cru

z C

emen

t Ju

ng Y

oon

(510

) 231

-940

0 ex

t. 41

1 (d

ata

cont

act)

City

of S

anta

Cru

z W

ater

Dep

artm

ent-

Wat

er

Res

ourc

es M

anag

emen

t M

onito

r tem

pera

ture

, tur

bidi

ty, a

nd lo

ggin

g in

th

e Sa

n Lo

renz

o R

iver

, Lid

dell

Cre

ek, L

agun

a C

reek

, Maj

ors C

reek

, and

New

ell C

reek

.

City

of S

anta

Cru

z W

ater

Dep

artm

ent

Wat

er Q

ualit

y M

onito

ring

in A

ccor

danc

e w

ith

NPD

ES P

erm

its

Var

ious

San

ta C

ruz

Cou

nty

NPD

ES p

erm

ittee

s co

nduc

t wat

er q

ualit

y m

onito

ring

for p

aram

eter

s su

ch a

s PC

Bs, P

AH

s, TO

Cs, V

OC

s, pa

thog

ens,

nitro

gen,

and

bio

logi

cal c

onta

min

ants

.

Sant

a Cr

uz C

ount

y N

PDES

per

mitt

ees

Aqu

atic

Pro

tect

ion

Age

ncy

Mon

itor n

utrie

nts,

pest

icid

es, t

oxic

ity, m

etal

s, A

quat

ic P

rote

ctio

n A

genc

y

Mon

itorin

g Pr

ogra

m

Pa

ram

eter

s Mea

sure

d O

rgan

izat

ion/

Con

tact

path

ogen

s, se

dim

ents

, and

all

vola

tile

and

sem

i-vo

latil

e co

mpo

unds

in th

e co

asta

l wat

ers.

Eric

Rus

sell

(831

) 915

-819

0

C

entra

l Coa

st M

onito

ring

Effo

rts

C

I-CO

RE

Mon

itor t

empe

ratu

re, s

alin

ity, a

nd tu

rbid

ity

CI-C

OR

E D

r. K

enne

th C

oale

(831

) 771

-440

6 C

entra

l Coa

st A

mbi

ent M

onito

ring

Prog

ram

(C

CA

MP)

Mon

itor n

utrie

nts,

toxi

city

, met

als,

bent

hic,

pa

thog

ens,

sedi

men

t.

Con

duct

ed b

y C

entra

l Coa

st R

egio

nal W

ater

Q

ualit

y C

ontro

l Boa

rd

Kar

en W

orce

ster

(805

) 549

-333

3 Su

rface

Wat

er A

mbi

ent M

onito

ring

Prog

ram

(S

WA

MP)

Pr

ogra

m c

ompo

nent

s inc

lude

che

mic

al, t

oxic

ity,

field

dat

a, a

nd fi

sh/s

hellf

ish

tissu

e da

ta

colle

ctio

n; b

acte

ria in

dica

tors

; bio

logi

cal

asse

ssm

ents

; and

hab

itat a

sses

smen

ts.

Stat

e W

ater

Res

ourc

es C

ontro

l Boa

rd

Emili

e R

eyes

(916

) 341

-557

3

Cen

tral C

oast

Long

-term

Env

ironm

enta

l A

sses

smen

t Net

wor

k (C

CLE

AN

) M

onito

r PO

Ps, n

utrie

nts,

and

susp

ende

d se

dim

ents

in W

WTP

eff

luen

t M

onito

r PO

Ps, n

utrie

nts,

bent

hic,

bac

teria

, pe

stic

ides

, in

Mon

tere

y Ba

y

Cen

tral C

oast

Reg

iona

l Wat

er Q

ualit

y C

ontro

l Bo

ard

Dan

e H

ardi

n (8

31) 4

26-6

326

Bay

Prot

ectio

n an

d To

xic

Cle

anup

Pro

gram

Con

duct

ana

lysi

s for

a v

arie

ty o

f che

mic

als a

nd

toxi

ns in

Mon

tere

y Ba

y

Con

duct

ed b

y th

e St

ate

Wat

er R

esou

rce

Con

trol

Boar

d C

raig

Wils

on (9

16) 6

57-1

108

Mon

itorin

g Pr

ogra

m

Pa

ram

eter

s Mea

sure

d O

rgan

izat

ion/

Con

tact

NO

AA

Nat

iona

l Sta

tus a

nd T

rend

s Mus

sel W

atch

Pr

ogra

m

Mea

sure

s che

mic

al c

onta

min

atio

n su

ch a

s suc

h as

org

anoc

hlor

ine,

pes

ticid

es, P

CBs

, PA

Hs,

and

TBT

Con

duct

ed b

y N

OA

A

Long

Mar

ine

Labo

rato

ry -

NPD

ES S

elf-

Mon

itorin

g Pr

ogra

m

Mon

itor f

low

, sus

pend

ed s

olid

s, gr

ease

, oil,

tu

rbid

ity, a

nd p

H

Mon

itor f

or to

xic

pollu

tant

s suc

h as

met

als a

nd

synt

hetic

/org

anic

com

poun

ds a

t lea

st o

nce

durin

g lif

e of

the

perm

it.

Long

Mar

ine

Labo

rato

ry

Kei

th S

kaug

(408

)429

4771

Dep

artm

ent o

f Wat

er R

esou

rces

, San

Joaq

uin

Dist

rict,

Wat

er Q

ualit

y M

onito

ring

Prog

ram

W

ater

qua

lity

is te

sted

at f

our s

tatio

ns in

San

ta

Cru

z C

ount

y on

ce a

yea

r.

Fund

ed b

y D

epar

tmen

t of W

ater

Res

ourc

es

Iris

Yam

agat

a (2

09) 4

45-5

320

Cal

iforn

ia S

tate

Mus

sel W

atch

Pro

gram

M

onito

r for

met

als,

orga

nom

etal

lic c

ompo

unds

, PC

Bs, p

estic

ides

, phe

nolic

s, an

d so

met

imes

PA

Hs i

n se

dim

ent a

nd fo

r bio

accu

mul

atio

n in

m

usse

ls.

Con

duct

ed b

y C

alifo

rnia

Dep

artm

ent o

f Fis

h an

d G

ame

Del

Ras

smus

sen

(916

) 657

-091

6

PISC

O

Mon

itor s

alin

ity a

nd te

mpe

ratu

re m

onth

ly

Fund

ed b

y th

e D

avid

and

Luc

ile P

acka

rd

Foun

datio

n

W

ater

Qua

ntity

Mon

itori

ng E

ffor

ts in

San

ta C

ruz

Cou

nty

M

onito

ring

Prog

ram

Para

met

ers M

easu

red

Org

aniz

atio

n/C

onta

ct

Lo

cal O

rgan

izat

ions

City

of S

anta

Cru

z W

ater

Dep

artm

ent-

Wat

er

Res

ourc

es M

anag

emen

t M

easu

res w

ater

flow

at 1

1 to

15

loca

tions

in th

e fo

llow

ing

wat

er b

odie

s: Sa

n Lo

renz

o R

iver

, Li

ddel

l Cre

ek, L

agun

a C

reek

, Maj

ors C

reek

, and

N

ewel

l Cre

ek

City

of S

anta

Cru

z W

ater

Dep

artm

ent

Chr

is B

erry

(831

) 420

-548

3

Mon

itorin

g St

ream

flow

in S

oque

l Cre

ek

Wat

ersh

ed-S

oque

l Cre

ek W

ater

Dist

rict

Mon

itor s

tream

flow

at t

hree

loca

tions

in S

oque

l C

reek

and

col

lect

rain

fall

data

at t

wo

loca

tions

in

Soq

uel C

reek

Wat

ersh

ed.

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

er D

istric

t and

US

Geo

logi

cal

Surv

ey

Laur

a Br

own

(831

) 475

-850

0 St

ream

flow

Mon

itorin

g in

Soq

uel C

reek

W

ater

shed

and

San

Lor

enzo

Val

ley

Stre

amflo

w is

mea

sure

d on

ce in

the

fall

at fi

ve

to si

x lo

catio

ns in

the

Soqu

el W

ater

shed

for t

he

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

er D

istric

t.

Stre

amflo

w is

mea

sure

d in

the

San

Lore

nzo

Wat

ersh

ed fo

r the

San

Lor

enzo

Val

ley

Wat

er

Dist

rict i

n fa

ll at

eig

ht to

non

e lo

catio

ns.

Don

Alle

y (8

31) 3

38-7

971

Gro

undw

ater

Mon

itorin

g in

Soq

uel-A

ptos

Gro

undw

ater

dat

a is

colle

cted

from

a n

etw

ork

of

prod

uctio

n an

d m

onito

ring

wel

ls. T

here

are

5

wel

ls m

onito

ring

wel

ls in

the

Aro

mas

Red

San

d an

d 10

mon

itorin

g w

ells

in th

e Pu

risim

a.

Soqu

el C

reek

Wat

er D

istric

t La

ura

Brow

n (8

31) 4

75-8

500

Mon

itorin

g St

ream

flow

in th

e Sa

n Lo

renz

o W

ater

shed

St

ream

flow

is m

onito

red

quar

terly

at 3

0 sta

tions

w

ithin

the

San

Lore

nzo

Wat

ersh

ed.

Sant

a Cr

uz C

ount

y En

viro

nmen

tal H

ealth

Ser

vice

s Jo

hn R

icke

r (83

1) 4

54- 2

750

Wat

er S

uppl

y M

onito

ring-

Scot

ts V

alle

y Sc

otts

Val

ley

Wat

er D

istric

t col

lect

s dat

a ye

ar

roun

d fo

r rai

nfal

l, ev

apor

atio

n,

evap

otra

nspi

ratio

n, st

ream

flow

, spr

ing

flow

, and

gr

ound

wat

er e

leva

tion.

Scot

ts V

alle

y W

ater

Dist

rict,

the

City

of S

cotts

V

alle

y, U

SGS,

and

the

Mt.

Her

man

Ass

ocia

tion,

an

d To

dd E

ngin

eers

Jil

l Due

rig (8

31) 4

83-2

363

Su

mm

ary

of S

cotts

Val

ley

Mon

itori

ng P

rogr

ams

M

onito

ring

Type

Loca

tion

Mea

sure

men

t Typ

e D

ate

Star

ted

Freq

uenc

y/M

aint

aine

r N

otes

El P

uebl

o Y

ard

15-m

inut

e re

cord

ing

Jun-

05

Dai

ly/D

istri

ct, M

onth

ly/C

ity

Prec

ipita

tion

WW

TP

5-m

inut

e re

cord

ing

1987

D

aily

/City

O

ther

His

toric

Gag

es:

1) B

lair

site

on G

rani

te C

k. R

d. (J

an.

1975

-Dec

. 198

0)

2) H

acie

nda

Dr.

(Jul

. 197

4- M

ar. 1

979)

3)

El P

uebl

o Y

ard

buck

et g

age

(Jan

. 19

81- J

an. 1

985)

Ev

apor

atio

n El

Pue

blo

Yar

d Pa

n Ja

n-86

D

aily

/Dis

trict

Ev

apor

atio

n pa

n ra

w d

ata

not c

ompi

led

afte

r Jul

y199

0 Ev

apot

rans

pirs

tion

De

Lave

aga

Park

, Sa

nta

Cruz

A

utom

ated

act

ive

wea

ther

stat

ion

Sep-

90

Cal

iforn

ia Ir

rigat

ion

Man

agem

ent I

nfor

mat

ion

Syst

em/M

onth

ly

Dat

a av

aila

ble

on-li

ne th

roug

h C

IMIS

Car

bone

ra C

k at

Sc

otts

Val

ley

@

Car

bone

ra W

ay

Brid

ge (#

1116

1300

0)

15-m

inut

e re

cord

ing

Jan-

85

USG

S/D

aily

O

ther

His

toric

Gag

es:

1) C

arbo

nera

Ck.

@ S

anta

Cru

z (#

1116

1400

) 150

feet

ups

tream

from

m

outh

(197

4-19

76 p

artia

l dat

a)

2) B

ean

Ck.

Nea

r Fel

ton

(#11

1603

20)

(197

3-19

78 p

artia

l dat

a), l

ow fl

ows a

t sa

me

loca

tion

(198

3-19

88)

3) C

arbo

nera

Cre

ek @

Gle

n Ca

nyon

(1

990-

1994

?)

Bean

Ck

near

Sco

tts

Val

ley

@ M

t. H

erm

on C

ross

ing

(#11

1604

30)

15-m

inut

e re

cord

ing

Dec

-88

USG

S/D

aily

Stre

amflo

w

Eagl

e Cr

eek

in H

enry

C

owel

l Red

woo

ds

Stat

e Pa

rk

Buck

et-F

all,

Flow

M

eter

-Spr

ing

Mar

-01

Sem

i-ann

ually

/Tod

d En

gine

ers

Wel

l Inv

ento

ry

T10S

/R01

E Se

ctio

ns

6-9,

16-

20, 3

0 an

d T0

1S/R

02E

Sect

ions

1,

11-

14, 2

3-26

, 36

Ove

r 400

wel

ls:

loca

tion,

log,

type

, ca

paci

ty, e

tc. s

tore

d in

G

IS, a

nd A

cces

s

1950

’s

Logs

from

DW

R m

aint

aine

d by

Tod

d En

gine

ers

Mon

itorin

g Ty

pe

Lo

catio

n M

easu

rem

ent T

ype

Dat

e St

arte

d Fr

eque

ncy/

Mai

ntai

ner

Not

es

data

base

G

roun

dwat

er L

evel

s ~2

5 Sa

nta

Mar

garit

a A

quife

r and

~29

Lo

mpi

co A

quife

r w

ells

**

Dep

th to

wat

er

1968

Q

uarte

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Cost Estimate Sheet for Entire Proposal

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan

Budget Category Non-state Share(Funding Match)


(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $1,670,340 $1,913,194 $3,583,535

(b) Land Purchase/Easement $973,694 $145,000 $1,118,694

(c) Planning/Design/Engineering/Environmental Documentation $4,510,697 $4,176,541 8,687,239

(d) Construction/Implementation $12,496,714 $23,128,405 $35,625,119

(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement $308,347 $322,500 $630,847

(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] $19,959,792 $29,685,640 $49,645,434

(g) Construction Administration $1,286,091 $848,750 $2,134,841

(h) Other $216,118 $750,500 $966,618

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency $2,158,320 $924,393 $3,082,713

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $23,632,321 $32,209,283 $55,832,606

Source of funds for Match: in-kind services from a wide variety of local agencies and organizations, significant local agency/organization cash contributions, federal 319(h) grant and EQIP grants; NRCS private road association contributions; cost share program for septic upgrades (private individuals);

Appendix F High Priority Project Budget Sheets

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: San Lorenzo Onsite Sewage Disposal System Upgrades (Project # 1)

Budget Category Non-state Share(Funding Match)


(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $63,694 $63,694 $127,389

(b) Land Purchase/Easement $63,694 $0 $63,694

(c) Planning/Design/Engineering/Environmental Documentation $95,541 $95,541 $191,083

(d) Construction/Implementation $636,943 $764,331 $1,401,274

(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement $31,847 $0 $31,847

(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] $891,720 $923,567 $1,815,287

(g) Construction Administration $95,541 $0 $95,541

(h) Other $0 $0 $0

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency $0 $76,433 $76,433

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $987,260 $999,999 $1,987,261

Source of funds for Match: in-kind services cash contributions from private individuals using cost share program for septic upgrades

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Abandoned Wells Destruction Program (Project # 2)



(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $0

50,000 50,000

(b) Land Purchase/Easement $0 $0

$0

(c) Planning/Design/Engineering/Environmental Documentation

$0 100,000 100,000

(d) Construction/Implementation 425,000 850,000 1,275,000

(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement $0 $0 $0

(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] $0 $0 $0

(g) Construction Administration $0 $0 $0

(h) Other $0 $0 $0

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency $0 $0 $0

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] 425,000 1,000,000 1,425,000

Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match) In kind services, local cash contributions

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Feasibility Study for Enhanced Aquifer Recharge (Project # 3)




(b) Land Purchase/Easement $0 $25,000 $25,000


$150,000 $200,000 $350,000

(d) Construction/Implementation $0 $230,000 $230,000

(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement $0 $5,000 $5,000

(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column]

$160,000 $470,000 $630,000

(g) Construction Administration $0 $18,500 $18,500

(h) Other $0 $0 $0


(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $160,000 $500,000 $660,000


Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Regionwide Drainage Master Plan (Project # 4)



(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $125,000 $0 $125,000

(b) Land Purchase/Easement

$0 $0 $0


$0 $500,000 $500,000

(d) Construction/Implementation $0 $0 $0



$125,000 $500,000 $625,000


(h) Other $0 $0 $0



Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match): In kind services, local cash contributions

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Santa Cruz County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (Project # 5) Budget Category Non-state Share

(Funding Match) State Share (Grant Funding) Total

(a) Direct Project Administration Costs 27,000 $0 27,000

(b) Land Purchase/Easement $0 $0 $0


17,000 160,000 177,000

(d) Construction/Implementation $12,000 $70,000 $82,000


(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] 56,000 $230,000 286,000

(g) Construction/Implementation Administration 63,000 $0 63,000

(h) Other (Education and Outreach) 30,000 270,000 300,000

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency $7,000 $0 $7,000

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] 156,000 $500,000 656,000


Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Enhance and Protect Primary Groundwater Recharge Areas (Project # 6) Budget Category Non-state Share



(b) Land Purchase/Easement $25,000 $100,000 $125,000

(c) Planning/Design/Engineering/Environmental Documentation $10,000 $300,000 $310,000



(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] $107,500 $712,500 $820,000

(g) Construction/Implementation Administration $25,000 $25,000 $50,000

(h) Other (Education and Outreach) $0 $0 $0


(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $132,500 $750,000 $882,500 Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match) In kind services, local cash contributions

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Relocate Sewer Main From New Brighton State Beach (Project # 7)




(b) Land Purchase/Easement 415,000 $0 415,000


1,179,750 $0 1,179,750

(d) Construction/Implementation 7,000,000 3,000,000 10,000,000

(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement 150,000 $0 150,000


9,494,750 3,000,000 12,494,750

(g) Construction Administration 840,000 $0 840,000

(h) Other $0 $0 $0

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency 2,000,000 $0 2,000,000

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] 12,334,750 3,000,000 15,334,750

Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match) Local cash contribution

Cost Estimate Table Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Engineering for Regional Ocean Desalination Project (Project # 8)



(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0


1,863,406 1,300,000 3,163,406

(d) Construction/Implementation

$0 $0 $0

(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement

$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0

(g) Construction Administration

$0 $0 $0

(h) Other

$0 $0 $0



Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match): Local cash contribution, in-kind from city staff

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Polo Grounds Park Well, Treatment Plant, Pipelines, and Water Conservation (Project # 9) Budget Category Non-state Share





26,000 45,000 71,000

(d) Construction/Implementation 930,000 4,586,000 5,516,000

(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement 10,000 30,000 40,000

(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] 988,000 4,661,000 5,649,000

(g) Construction Administration 37,750 11,250 49,000

(h) Other 2,500 7,500 10,000

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency 110,320 330,960 441,280


Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match): in-kind services from local agencies and organizations, significant local agency/organization cash contributions, donation of land

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Groundwater Monitoring Wells in the Aromas and Purisima Formations (Project # 10)




(b) Land Purchase/Easement 60,000 $0 60,000


50,000 $0 50,000

(d) Construction/Implementation 100,000 408,000 508,000


(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] 390,000 550,000 940,000

(g) Construction Administration 10,000 30,000 40,000

(h) Other 2,000 6,000 8,000


(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] 406,000 450,000 856,000

Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match): in-kind services, local agency cash contributions,

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Davenport Drinking Water Improvement Project (Project # 11) Budget Category Non-state Share


(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $0 30,000 30,000


$0 $0 $0


$0 106,000 106,000

(d) Construction/Implementation $0 415,000 415,000


$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0

(h) Other

$0 $0 $0

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency $0 49,000 49,000

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $0 600,000 600,000

Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match): though no match is shown here the agency has spent $ on planning for this project

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Watsonville Sloughs IWRP (Project # 12) Budget Category Non-state Share



(b) Land Purchase/Easement $410,000 $20,000 $430,000


$208,500 $85,000 $293,500

(d) Construction/Implementation $334,050 $1,920,574 $2,254,624


(f) Project Summary [Sum (a) through (e) for each column] $1,046,950 $2,225,574 $3,272,524

(g) Construction Administration $7,000 $10,000 $17,000

(h) Other $0 $7,000 $7,000



Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match) in-kind services from a wide variety of local agencies and organizations, significant local agency/organization cash contributions, land donation

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Integrated Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP) Phase 2 (Project # 13)


State Share (Grant Funding)

Total

(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $285,246 $1,056,000 $1,341,246

(b) Land Purchase/Easement $0 $0 0


$718,500 $995,000 $1,713,500

(d) Construction/Implementation $1,384,721 $5,645,000 $7,029,721


$70,000 $240,000 $310,000


$2,458,467 $7,236,000 $9,694,467

(g) Construction Administration $207,800 $754,000 $961,800

(h) Other $181,618 $460,000 $641,618



Source of funds for Non-State Share (Funding Match)

NRCS, City of Santa Cruz, Arana Gulch Watershed Alliance, Santa Cruz Port District, RCD, Santa Cruz County Planning, Public Works and Environmental Health, landowners, Private Road Associations, County Service Areas, local resource professionals inkind services and local cash contribution, 319 grant

Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Four Recycled Line Distribution Extensions in the Scotts Valley Area (Project # 14) Budget Category Non-state Share




$0 $0 $0


$80,000 $80,000 $160,000


(e) Environmental Compliance/Mitigation/Enhancement $0 $35,000 $35,000


$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0

(h) Other

$0 $0 $0


(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $703,000 $1,051,000 $1,754,000


Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Bergstrom Pit Aquifer Recharge Project (Project # 15)



(a) Direct Project Administration Costs 37,000 25,000 62,000



112,000 75,000 187,000

(d) Construction/Implementation 564,000 375,000 939,000



$0 $0 $0


(h) Other $0 $0 $0


(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] 750,000 500,000 1,250,000


Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Project Monitoring (Project # 16)


State Share (Grant Funding)

Total

(a) Direct Project Administration Costs $0 $45,000 $45,000



$0 $135,000 $135,000



$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0

(h) Other

$0 $0 $0

(i) Construction/Implementation Contingency

$0 $0 $0

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $300,000 $905,000 $1,205,000


Cost Estimate Table

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Project Title: Upgrade and Expand the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan (Project # 17)





$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0



$0 $0 $0


$200,000 $500,000 $700,000


$0 $0 $0

(h) Other

$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0



Cost Estimate Sheet

Proposal Title: Implement Northern Santa Cruz County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Proposal Title: Project Management and Administration (Task 18)






$0 $0 $0

(d) Construction/Implementation $0 $2,456,500 $2,456,500


$0 $0 $0


$40,000 $2,890,000 $2,930,000


$0 $0 $0

(h) Other

$0 $0 $0


$0 $0 $0

(j) Grant Total [Sum (f) through (i) for each column] $40,000 $2,890,000 $2,930,000


Appendix G Santa Cruz Sentinel Articles Regarding Desalination and Local Water

Supply Issues

List of Acronyms AMBAG Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments CCA Critical Coastal Area CDFG California Department of Fish and Game CWC Coastal Watershed Council DWR Department of Water Resources IRWMP Integrated Regional Water Management Plan IWRP Integrated Watershed Restoration Program MBNMS Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary NOAA National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration NPS Nonpoint Source NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Services RCD Resource Conservation District RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board SqCWD Soquel Creek Water District SLR San Lorenzo River SVWD Scotts Valley Water District SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service WMI Watershed Management Initiative WWW Watsonville Wetlands Watch

Integrated Regional Water Management Plan - Northern Santa Cruz County

Documents

el pueblo

bowker roadfreedom

timber harvest

el pueblo

unusual algal

charges usage

harmful algal

incomparably