PROJECT TITLE: SGVCC Farm Pepper Tree Removal and Fuel Reduction Project – Notice of Exemption
PROJECT LOCATION:
Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area
15501 East Arrow Highway Irwindale, CA 91706
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
: The San Gabriel Valley Conservation Corps (SGVCC), in coordination with the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation (CLCCF), conducted training for 18 participants in chainsaw (S-212), pole saw, and weed wacker operations. The training was intended to prepare participants for the safe removal of invasive Peruvian pepper trees located west of the SGVCC Farm, adjacent to the fence line.
Certified instructors from the Working on Fire Training Academy, all of whom are former CAL FIRE firefighters, would oversee chainsaw operations. The proposed work would include removal of up to 20 California (Peruvian) pepper trees (Schinus molle; invasive, non-native), including 17 trees located adjacent to the west side of the fence and 3 trees located within the SGVCC Farm. Stump grinding would be completed at a later date by a licensed arborist and SGVCC crews.
In addition, SGVCC crews may conduct light thinning around the nature center to reduce hazardous fuels, improve defensible space, .and provide hands-on training related to vegetation management.
PROJECT APPLICANT: County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Jui Ing Chien
Park Planner
626-588-5317
jchien@parks.lacounty.gov
EXEMPT STATUS: Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code:
Sections 15301 (h) and 15304 (i)
REASONS FOR EXEMPTION:
The project is consistent with Section 15301 Class 1 which provides for repair, maintenance, or minor alteration of existing public facilities. This includes but is not limited to Class 1 (h) for maintenance of existing landscaping. The project is also consistent with Section 15304 Class 4 which provides for minor public alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation. This includes but is not limited to Class 4 (i) for fuel management activities.