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Agenda Packet 01/22/2002
. .. AGENDA • iaia � �s� CADS// ATASCADERO CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2002 7:00 P.M. City of Atascadero 6500 Palma Avenue, Wh Floor Atascadero, California REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: 6:30 P.M. CLOSED SESSION: 1. PUBLIC COMMENT - CLOSED SESSION • 2. Call to Order a.) Conference with legal counsel - Pending litigation (Govt. Code Sec.54956.9) Diamond v City of Atascadero 3. Adjourn 4. CLOSED SESSION REPORT REGULAR SESSION, 7:00 P.M.: PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Pro Tem Scalise ROLL CALL: Mayor Arrambide Mayor Pro Tem Scalise Council Member Clay Council Member Johnson Council Member Luna APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Roll Call • PRESENTATIONS: 1. Proclamation declaring February 2002, "Spay Month USA" and February 26, 2002, "Spay Day USA." 2. League of California Cities - Grassroots Network Overview by Channel Counties Regional Representative David Mullinax COMMUNITY FORUM: (This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wanting to address the Council on any matter not on this agenda and over which the Council has jurisdiction. Speakers are limited to five minutes. Please state your name and address for the record before making your presentation. The Council may take action to direct the staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda.) COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS: (On their own initiative, Council Members may make a brief announcement or a brief report on their own activities. Council Members may ask a question for clarification, make a referral to staff or take action to have staff place a matter of business on a future agenda. The Council may take action on items listed on the Agenda.) • A. CONSENT CALENDAR: (All items on the consent calendar are considered to be routine and non-controversial by City staff and will be approved by one motion if no member of the Council or public wishes to comment or ask questions. If comment or discussion is desired by anyone, the item will be removed from the consent calendar and will be considered in the listed sequence with an opportunity for any member of the public to address the Council concerning the item before action is taken.) 1. City Council Minutes — January 08, 2002 • City Clerk recommendation: Council approve the City Council minutes of January 08, 2002. [City Clerk] 2. City Treasurer's Agenda Report - November 2001 ■ City Treasurer recommendation: Council review and accept the November 2001 Treasurer's Report. [City Treasurer] B. PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. Regulation of Bow Hunting Fiscal Impact: None ■ City Attorney recommendation: City Council take action to permit or prohibit bow hunting within the City limits. [City Attorney] 2 C. MANAGEMENT REPORTS 1. City Council Strategic Planning ■ Fiscal Impact: None ■ Staff recommendation: City Council receive public input regarding priorities for the future. [City Manager] 2. Assembly Bill 1755 (Maldonado) ■ Fiscal Impact: None ■ Staff recommendation: City Council authorize the Mayor to sign a letter in support of AB 1755 (Maldonado) increasing the penalties for escape at the State Hospital. [City Manager] 3. Information Bulletin a. Atascadero Lake Water Quality b. Chamber's Activities and Programs - October - December 2001 D. COMMITTEE REPORTS: (The following represent standing committees. Informative status reports will be given, as felt necessary.): Mayor Arrambide 1. S.L.O. Council of Governments(SLOCOG)/S.L.O. Regional Transit Authority(SLORTA) • 2. Water Committees 3. County Mayor's Round Table Mayor Pro Tem Scalise 1. Finance Committee 2. City / Schools Committee 3. Economic Opportunity Commission (EOC) 4. Atascadero State Hospital Advisory Board 5. Economic Vitality Corporation, Board of Directors (EVC) Council Member Luna 1. Finance Committee 2. Integrated Waste Management Authority (IWMA) 3. North County Homeless Coalition Council Member Johnson 1. Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCO) Council Member Clay 1. Air Pollution Control District (APCD) 2. City / Schools Committee 3 E. INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION AND/OR ACTION: 1 . City Council • 2. City Clerk 3. City Treasurer 4. City Attorney 5. City Manager F. ADJOURNMENT: Please note: Should anyone challenge any proposed development entitlement listed on this Agenda in court, that person may be limited to raising those issues addressed at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at or prior to this public hearing. I, Marcia McClure Torgerson, the City Clerk of the City of Atascadero, declare under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing agenda for the January 22, 2002 Regular Session of the Atascadero City Council was posted on January 15, 2002 at Atascadero City Hall, 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422 and was available for public review in the City Clerk's office at that location. Signed this 15"' of January, 2002 at Atascadero, California. J Marcia McClure Torgerson, City Ciera City of Atascadero • 4 City of Atascadero WELCOME TO THEATASCADERO CITY COUNCIL MEETING • The City Council meets in regular session on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber of City Hall. Matters are considered by the Council in the order of the printed Agenda. Copies of the staff reports or other documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the Agenda are on file in the office of the City Clerk(Room 311) available for public inspection during City Hall business hours. An agenda packet is also available for public review at the Atascadero Library, 6850 Morro Road. Contracts, Resolutions and Ordinances will be allocated a number once they are approved by the City Council. The.minutes of this meeting will reflect these numbers. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in a City meeting or other services offered by this City, please contact the City Manager's Office, (805) 461-5010, or the City Clerk's Office, (805)461-5074. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting or time when services are needed will assist the City staff in assuring that reasonable arrangements can be made to provide accessibility to the meeting or service. TO SPEAK ON AGENDA ITEMS Members of the audience may speak on any item on the agenda. The Mayor will identify the subject, staff will give their report, and the Council will ask questions of staff. The Mayor will announce when the public comment period is open and will request anyone interested to address the Council regarding the matter being considered to step up to the podium. If you wish to speak for, against or comment in any way: • • You must approach the podium and be recognized by the Mayor • Give your name and address(not required) • Make your statement • All comments should be made to the Mayor and Council • All comments limited to 5 minutes(unless changed by the Council) • No one may speak for a second time until everyone wishing to speak has had an opportunity to do so, and no one may speak more than twice on any item. The Mayor will announce when the public comment period is closed, and thereafter, no further public comments will be heard by the Council. TO SPEAK ON SUBJECTS NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA Under Agenda item, "COMMUNITY FORUM", the Mayor will call for anyone from the audience having business with the Council to: • Please approach the podium and be recognized • Give your name and address • State the nature of your business This is the time items not on the Agenda may be brought to the Council's attention. A maximum of 30 minutes will be allowed for Community Forum (unless changed by the Council). • TO HAVE ITEMS PLACED ON AGENDA All business matters to appear on the Agenda must be in the Office of the City Manager ten days preceding the Council meeting. Should you have a matter you wish to bring before the Council, please mail or bring a written communication to the City Manager's office in City Hall prior to the deadline. PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL • OF THE CITY OF ATASCADER0 DECLARING FEBRUARY, 2002 "SPAYMONTH USA" AND FEBRUARY 26, 2002, "SPAYDAY USA" WHEREAS, cats and dogs give companionship to and share the homes of over 57,000,000 individuals in the United States; and WHEREAS, two unaltered cats and their offspring can produce 420,000 more cats in seven years, and two unaltered dogs and their offspring can produce 67,000 more dogs in six years; and WHEREAS, humane societies and shelters euthanize 4 to 6 million cats and dogs each year, although many of them are healthy and adoptable, simply because there are not enough good homes; and WHEREAS, the problem of companion animal overpopulation costs the taxpayers of this country billions of dollars annually through animal control programs aimed at coping with the millions of unwanted cats and dogs;and WHEREAS, spaying and neutering cats and dogs has been shown to drastically • reduce cat and dog overpopulation; and WHEREAS, veterinarians, humane societies, national and local animal protection organizations, and private citizens worked together to ensure the spaying or neutering of an estimated 150,000 companion animals through "Spay Day USA" in 2001; and WHEREAS, veterinarians, humane societies, national and local animal protection organizations, and private citizens have joined together again to advocate the spaying and neutering of companion animals on "Spay Day USA 2002 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Atascadero City Council, that February, 2002 be declared "Spay Month USA" and February 26, 2002 is designated "Spay Day USA". The Mayor is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon-the people of Atascadero to observe the day by having their own cats or dogs spayed or neutered or by sponsoring the paying or neutering of another person's cat or dog. Michael Arrambide, Mayor • City of Atascadero, CA January 22, 2002 001 ITEM NUMBER: A- 1 DATE: 01/22/2002 ,9ls 1979 DRAFT MINUTES ATASCADERO CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 08, 2002 7:00 P.M. CLOSED SESSION: 1. PUBLIC COMMENT - CLOSED SESSION: None Council Member Luna announced that he would be stepping down due to a conflict of interest. 2. Call to Order a.) Conference with legal counsel - Pending litigation (Govt. Code Sec. 54956.9) • Diamond v City of Atascadero b) Conference with legal counsel - Significant exposure to litigation (Govt. Code Sec. 54956.9 (b) (1)) Creekside Parcel Associates v City of Atascadero 3. Adjourn 4. CLOSED SESSION REPORT City Attorney Roy Hanley announced that there was no reportable action on Item 2a., and the Council voted 4:0 on Item 2b., to reject the Creekside Parcel Associates claim. REGULAR SESSION, 7:00 P.M.: Mayor Arrambide called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. • CC 01/08/02 Page 1 002 ITEM NUMBER: A-1 DATE: 01/22/2002 ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Clay, Johnson, Luna, Scalise and Mayor Arrambide • Absent: None Others Present: City Clerk Marcia McClure Torgerson Staff Present: City Manager Wade McKinney, Assistant City Manager Brady Cherry, Administrative Services Director Rachelle Rickard, Community Development Director Warren Frace, Public Works Director Steve Kahn, Police Chief Dennis Hegwood, Fire Chief Kurt Stone and City Attorney Roy Hanley. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: MOTION: By Council Member Luna and seconded by Council Member Johnson to approve the Agenda. Motion passed 5:0 by a roll-call vote. CITY COUNCIL REORGANIZATION: 1: Council Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem —The Mayor will accept nominations from the • Council Members MOTION: By Council Member Johnson and seconded by Mayor Arrambide to reappoint Council Member Scalise to the position of Mayor Pro Tem. Motion passed 4:1 by a roll-call vote. (Luna opposed) 2. Review committee appointments Mayor Arrambide announced the following changes for committee appointments: Council Member Johnson will replace Mayor Arrambide on the San Luis Obispo County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and Water Resources Advisory Commission, and Mayor Arrambide will serve as an alternate to the EVC Board of Directors. Mayor Pro Tem Scalise reported that the Economic Opportunity Commission rotates between the Atascadero and Paso Robles City Council every two years when appointing a representative. The term for Atascadero has just been completed and a representative from Paso Robles will now be appointed. Council Member Clay indicated his qualifications for and interest in representing the Council on the Atascadero State Hospital Committee. Mayor Arrambide appointed Council Member Clay as the alternate representative for the ASH Advisory Board. • CC 01/08/02 (l Page 2 v ITEM NUMBER: A- 1 DATE: 01/22/2002 COMMUNITY FORUM: • Joan O'Keefe, 9985 Old Morro Road East, announced to the Council in a prepared statement that there was a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) hearing last night. She stated her concerns and suggestions regarding the lack of collaboration between ECHO, EOC and HHP. (Attachment A) John McGoff, 9192 Maple St., expressed his concern with the amount of semi trucks on El Camino Real, especially between Santa Rosa and Santa Barbara and their effect on the condition of the road. He also stated that speed laws in Atascadero must be more vigorously enforced. David Golston, 5905 Entrada, stated he is discouraged with the restriction to retail use at his downtown business property as he is having difficulty finding a retail renter. He explained that he has had several offers from non-retail businesses. He would like to see an alternative plan promoting a mix of businesses until the downtown has established itself as a retail center. Mayor Arrambide explained that though this is a difficult time for downtown Atascadero, the major progress on the Carlton Hotel is heralding a new era for the downtown. Mayor Arrambide conceded that the downtown is in a period of transition but he feels the Carlton project will create a synergy that will help to change the downtown and attract more retail businesses. Council Member Johnson suggested Mr. Golston call the Economic Vitality Corporation and let them know what type of property he has as well as the square footage, and they will include it in • their data bank. Mayor Arrambide closed the Community Forum period COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS: Council Member Luna stated that he has read the Notice of Preparation (NOP) for the General Plan EIR and feels it is fatally flawed. He explained that the goals reaffirmed by the Council that were to serve as the base for the rewriting of the General Plan have been changed substantially by the consultant making it difficult for certain agencies to adequately respond in the EIR. Additionally, the population figures as submitted are not complete; and the Policy Options as adopted by the Council have been omitted. It is Council Member Luna's opinion that the Notice of Preparation should be withdrawn and re-circulated so that the responsible agencies have a clear picture of exactly what the Council and the City were attempting to do. Mayor Arrambide asked if the issues Council Member Luna raised could be reviewed at the next Council meeting to ensure that what the City is doing is timely and correct. Community Development Director Warren Frace stated that the NOP has been released, its purpose being to notify the responsible agencies such as Regional Water Quality and Cal Trans that the City is moving forward with the project. The main portion of the NOP is an initial study, • which goes through and identifies what the significant impacts are expected to be related to the project. There is a portion at the beginning that is a general overview project description and includes the map as endorsed by the Council. Additionally, there is a portion that the consultant CC 01/08/02 Page 3 G l`f ITEM NUMBER: A- 1 DATE: 01/22/2002 included that is a summary of the overall objectives/goals of the plan. The consultant tried to describe these in terms that might translate better to state agencies. When the Draft General Plan • and the Draft EIR are released, those endorsed goals will be included with the supporting policy and text. Therefore, when the formal project is released, what the Council endorsed will be included. The purpose of the NOP is a warning or pre-notice of the City's intent to issue a draft EIR. Council Member Luna gave a few examples of the errors he feels exist in the document. Council Member Clay expressed concern with the amount of time already expended on the process and questioned how much time would be added on if the City must go through the process again on this issue. Community Development Director Frace stated that it would take an additional 45 days. Council Member Johnson stated that if the parties concerned are going to get the entire report for their formal comments, he is unwilling to slow the process up now. Mayor Pro Tem Scalise indicated that she had spoken to Paul Crawford earlier in the week and discussed the fact that the NOP is more or less just a form notifying those involved that initial input is requested. Mayor Arrambide asked the City Attorney to review the position of Planning and advise the Council on the issue. Mayor Arrambide announced the Council would be reviewing the Maldonado bill at the next • meeting. Mayor Arrambide asked the City Manager to report on the City's sexual harassment policy. Mr. McKinney explained that the City's harassment policy is reviewed annually and in the last year has been completely rewritten and sent to each employee for their signature indicating that they have reviewed it. Additionally, flyers and information are placed in the pay notice annually regarding employee rights and encouraging people to report any sexual harassment they may see in the organization. Currently special council Dave Fleishman has planned a supervisors training on the subject of sexual harassment. All appropriate legal notices are posted at various work sites. Mayor Arrambide announced that the City has been working with the Chamber regarding a new graphic introduction to the community that would be appropriate for City signage. It will be introduced at the Chamber Mixer next week. Mayor Arrambide announced the bow hunting issue would be on the January 22nd Council agenda. • CC 01/08/02 r u, Page 4 "� `� ITEM NUMBER: A- 1 DATE: 01/22/2002 A. CONSENT CALENDAR: Roll Call • 1. City Council Minutes—December 11, 2001 ■ City Clerk recommendation: Council approve the City Council minutes of December 11, 2001. [City Clerk] 2. November 2001 - Accounts Payable and Payroll ■ Fiscal Impact: $2,047,513.23 ■ Staff recommendation: Council approve certified City accounts payable, payroll and payroll vendor checks for November 2001. [Administrative Services] 3. Zone Change 2001-0014 - Single Family Planned Development - 6555 Atascadero Avenue (Shores) ■ Fiscal Impact: The project would likely have a slight negative impact on City revenues. As a general rule, single-family dwellings require services that exceed the revenue generated by the dwelling. ■ Staff recommendation: Council adopt on second reading by title only, the draft Ordinance, enacting Zone Change 2001-0014 adding a PD-7 zoning overlay to an RMF-10 site. [Community Development] 4. Acceptance of Final Parcel Map 96-002 / AT 81-101 - 1950 Traffic Way / Levi & Marlene Barrett ■ Fiscallmpact: None • Staff recommendation: Council: 1. Accept Final Parcel Map 96-002/AT 81-101; and, 2. Accept the offer of street dedication shown on Final Parcel Map 96-002. [Public Works] 5. Traffic Signal Interconnect Design and Synchronization Project - Amendment to contract with Omni Means ■ Fiscal Impact: None ■ Staff recommendation: Council authorize the City Manager to execute the revised agreement with Omni Means, Ltd to design the Traffic Signal Interconnect and Synchronization. [Public Works] MOTION: By Council Member Luna and seconded by Council Member Clay to approve Consent Calendar Items 9A-1 through 5. Motion passed 5:0 by a roll-call vote. (Item #A-5 Contract No. 2001-042) B. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Mayor Arrambide S.L.O. Council of Governments (SLOCOG)/S.L.O. Regional Transit Authority (SLORTA): Mayor Arrambide asked Mr. McKinney to comment on an agenda item to be heard at SLOCOG • and SLORTA's meeting tomorrow regarding the allocation of affordable housing in San Luis Obispo County. Mr. McKinney explained how the allocation would work and answered questions of Council. CC 01/08/02 ee Page 5 �` V ITEM NUMBER: A-1 DATE: 01/22/2002 E. INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION AND/OR ACTION: City Council Council Member Luna indicated that he had toured the youth center and feels that it will be a fabulous place with great potential. Council Member Luna asked for a status report on real estate disclosure for homes built in the flood plain, Colony roads, etc. City Attorney Roy Hanley stated that there are many communities in the State that have disclosure ordinances and he feels sure that one could be drafted for Atascadero that would include any items the Council wanted. Mr. Hanley will report back to Council on this issue. F. ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Arrambide adjourned the meeting at 7:53 p.m. to the next regularly scheduled meeting on January 22, 2002. MEETING RECORDED AND MINUTES PREPARED BY: • Marcia McClure Torgerson, City Clerk Attachment A—Joan O'Keefe, 9985 Old Morro Road East • CC 01/08/02 Page 6 �� ` Attachment : A Atascadero City Council Meeting 1-8-2002 • Joan O'Keefe 1-8-02 9985 Old Morro Rd E City Council members Last night there was a meeting regarding the recommendations for allocation of CDBG grant funds for the next year. Among those present were Mike Byrns who is the past president of ECHO, Pearl Munik, president of HHP and J D Main past president of HHP. You may not have seen what the two groups requested and what was recommended. From Atascadero ECHO requested $60,000 for purchase of property, zero $$ recommended;ECHO requested $11,820 for salary and motel vouchers, $14,820 recommended;HHP requested $24,000 for emergency shelter program, zero $$ recommended;HHP requested $5500 for permanent housing study, zero $$ recommended. From Paso Robles HHP requested $48,000 for emergency shelter, $24,000 recommended;HHP requested $5500 for a feasibility study for N. C. Homeless shelter, zero $$ recommended. I observed that the county had not allocated any funds for emergency shelter in north county even though there are 3 unincorporated towns and questioned who was • responsible for that population. Tony Navarro, representing the county said the board of supervisors recognizes there is a homeless problem and chose to allocate all county funds to the SLO Shelter as this is acounty wide facility. Further county staff and the board of supervisors are concerned about the lack of collaboration among HHP, ECHO and EOC. Valerie pointed out that the two groups,HHP and ECHO are applying for the same funds. This gives the appearance of competition and highlights a lack of definition as to how the two groups decide who shelters who. The county wants the different factions/groups to get together and work collaboratively on the homeless problem in north county. In spite of what Tony Navarro said both men, Mike Byrns and JD Main denied there is a problem and said there is no splintering going on and that they are collaborating. Like the county I believe there is a problem and one of the problems is that one groups wants an overnight shelter and the other want s a day center. According to JD the North County Homeless Coalition dissolved. Everyone is doing their own thing. Recently there was a meeting with HHP,. ECHO, EOC and Tom Beem Homeless outreach from Mental Health. Nothing productive came of this meeting. Tony Navarro said that all non profits in north county who provide funds for shelter need to get together. Besides ECHO,HHP, and EOC he mentioned the Salvation Army, Loaves and Fishes. • • I believe the only way this may be resolved is if someone who doesn't have a vested interest, has listening and problem solving skills—a facilitator-gets the groups together. The homeless are being helped by these two groups, who.work very hard, but the delivery of service can be improved. U • 009 ITEM NUMBER: A-2 DATE: 01/22/2002 • isia o isle Atascadero City Council City Treasurer David G. Graham, EA City Treasurers Agenda Report Recommendation: City Treasurer recommends the City Council approve the City Treasurers reports for the following periods: November 2001 Discussion: The current 2-year treasury yield is holding steady at 2.93% and long-term rates are now topping out at their historical highs. Current economic reports are mixed. • Economic forecasts are all over the board and without any clear consensus. Forecasts now range from a Q2 2002 economic upturn to an extended period of economic decline lasting for another 18 to 24 months. Market conditions: Surprising everyone, consumer spending remains strong even in the face of the large corporate layoffs. According to Greenspan, the economy is being held aloft by the wealth effect. Consumers are refinancing their homes and using the proceeds to purchase big-ticket items. There is now a mild mumbling over possible inflationary pressures on the economy. The current Federal Funds rate stands at 1.75% with a possible though not certain 25 basis point cut on January 30. A rate of 1.50% would be the lowest Federal Funds rate in forty years. Investment Strategy: LAIF's mix of long and short-term maturities continue to be the preferred investment for short and medium term funds. The LAIF rate from November of 2000 has dropped over 300 basis points from 6.538 down to 3.526 in November of 2001. 1 will be critical to restrain maturities to correspond with any tightening by the Federal Reserve, which could occur in from 20 to 32 months. Assuming that we are near the bottom of the Federal Funds rate cuts Agencies and fully FDIC insured CDs will offer optimum yields and flexible liquidity as rates bottom out. Corporate yields can be expected to lead the • market when an economic turn around does occur. With the broad decline in corporate earnings however, commercial paper will require careful selection and constant monitoring. L � 0 City Treasurer's Report November 2001 David Graham • REPORT IN BRIEF: Cash and Investments Checking $ 220,654 Money Market Accounts 89 Certificates of Deposit 3,574,378 Government Securities 993,265 Corporate Paper - LAIF 12,668,717 Cash with Fiscal Agents 143,150 Cash in Banks at November 30,2001 $ 17,600,253 Deposits in Transit - Outstanding Checks (412,974) Cash and Investments at November 30, 2001 $ 17,187,279 Investment Activity Securities Purchased: • Purchase Date Description Type Cost Maturity Date 11/02/01 Covest Bank CD $ 97,000 11/02/04 11/07/01 Sterns Bank CD 95,000 05/02/03 11/07/01 Bank of the West CD 97,000 11/07/03 11/07/01 Stanton Island Bank&Trust CD 95,000 11/09/04 11/07/01 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter CD 97,000 11/07/05 11/09/01 First Merit Bank CD 97,000 05/10/04 11/16/01 The Western State Bank CD 96,000 05/17/04 Securities Matured: None Securities Sold/Called Prior to Maturity: None I Other Reportable Activities: None • Page 1 of 11 01 CITY OF ATASCADERO TREASURER'S REPORT • CASH& INVESTMENTS ACTIVITY SUMMARY FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2001 CHECKING FISCAL ACCOUNT INVESTMENTS AGENT TOTALS Balance per Banks at November 1, 2001 $ 586,607 $ 17,494,068 $ 142,871 $ 18,223,546 Receipts 1,090,397 114 279 1,090,790 Disbursements (1,714,083) - (1,714,083) Transfers In 1,101,733 844,000 - 1,945,733 Transfers Out (844,000) (1,101,733) - (1,945,733) Balance per Banks at November 30, 2001 $ 220,654 $ 17,236,449 $ 143,150 17,600,253 • Deposits in Transit - Outstanding Checks (412,974) Adjusted Treasurer's Balance $ 17,187,279 Page 2 of 11 C12 CN c\ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 h 00 0 0 o r o 0 0 0 O Ly co Cl) CN l� vl vl '7 C% Q\ G\ ni N C% CN C\ C1 N 69 Ir cd nt «S cC cd cO O O cacV as c\O j C C C C G G CN C C C C Q � 0. 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CIS ca § a c 2 . ± £ % 2 / / 2 ¥ 4 \ \ C> k k k Cl k k k k § § » » 2 » \ » 2 \ \ 7 � ® _ — � \ kq \ \ k / \ A 4 a 4 4 a004 \ w $ . � / 2 \ / / / c c & % \/ ; $ 4 4 4 4 K ¥ 4 > � \ \ 2 \ » CIS = m ca _ Cden q k . — \ W 2 2 / \ / \ U w W 6 / / / / / 6 ° 2 / % % % % 0 \ / § § § § § ) [ \ { / \ \ V K u U U u U j u o 0 \ \ \ \ \ \ \ CN_ \ 1.0 Q � § ON ® % . � \ ojj \ \ \ k w � k } § q q f @ ® 2 k � w \ _ _ z / B \ ; E 2 » m •) , S ¥ } } c Q # = a 2 ILI � _ / « 2 ■ @ , § § clB \ \ § \ \ k \ k \ / \ � . \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ ^ § \ ON # C G W In / f � - 2 C / • o 7 \ ) ® - -0 / . o _ \ / \ ƒ � c & � J 2 � � # 5 ) w j ® Cck \ u 7 / E ( 0 W § a e * / � { � \ / * L / 7 ) � t § 7 \^u \ \ \ \ \ cn S \ \ § \ ca ] k \ w W ® 0» ° � \ \ a / \ / ,\ . m a \ © \ \ Q \ E ( . \ i v \ « ® 2 5 ( dCJ ` co \ �\ § \ ¢ \ © d . .§ •§ � k § \ � ƒ \ A City of Ataseadero Investments by Type November 2001 • Gov't Cash with Securities Fiscal Certificates Agent of Deposit 6% g ° Other 21% 0% LA1F 72% Investment November 2001 LAIF $ 12,668,717 Certificates of Deposit 3,574,378 Government Securities 993,265 Corporate Paper - Cash with Fiscal Agent 143,150 Other 89 $ 17,379,599 • Page 8ofII Gis City of Ataseadero Investments by Maturity November 2001 • One Month to One Year One to Within One 6% Five Years Month 19% 1% • On Demand 74% Investment November 2001 On Demand $ 12,668,806 Within One Month 235,169 One Month to One Year 1,011,040 One to Five Years 3,321,434 $ 17,236,449 • Page 9 of 11 cl City of Atascadero Investments by Custodial Agent • November 2001 Riverwa Y Gibraltar Securities Trust Bank of 17% 1% New Penson York City of Financial Corp. 1% Atascadero 8% 0% ii i • State of California 73% Custodial Agent November 2001 State of California $ 12,668,717 Penson Financial Corp. 1,415,282 Gibraltar Securities 3,007,282 Riverway Trust 99,000 Bank of New York 143,150 City of Atascadero 46,169 $ 17,379,600 • Page 10 of 11 C,2 0 City of Atascadero Investment Yield vs. 2-Year Treasury Yield For the Year Ended November 30, 2001 • 7.00% 77�77s.00°io 5.00% 4.00% ' 3.00% 2.00% 1.00% 0.00% 00 d, d, `�'ON 0 O� O^ ,y0 �O 0ry0 ,LO ,y0 ,y0 ,y0 ,y0 ,y0 ,y0 o�et met met oacl oacl cG pQi� � Jc° )J>,A Jy� is a o° etc Gtio e� 5e � - -City Yield 2-Yr Treasury Yield 2-Yr Treasury City Yield Yield October 2000 6.55% 5.89% November 2000 6.56% 5.58% December 2000 6.56% 5.13% January 2001 6.34% 4.70% February 2001 6.17% 4.53% March 20001 6.03% 4.29% April 2001 5.85% 4.39% May 2001 5.47% 4.32% June 2001 5.14% 4.34% July 2001 4.83% 3.83% August 2001 4.74% 3.63% September 2001 4.54% 2.85% • October 2001 4.08% 2.36% November 2001 3.91% 2.84% Page 11 of 11 V�1 ITEM NUMBER: B- 1 DATE: 02/22/2002 • Xritl = s i a Atascadero City Council City Attorney Report Regulation of Bow Hunting RECOMMENDATION: City Council take action to permit or prohibit bow hunting within the City limits. (The attached Ordinance would prohibit bow hunting within the City limits). DISCUSSION: Background:, This matter has been the subject of discussion at prior City Council meetings. • Council Member Jerry Clay is the sole member of the ad hoc committee of the City Council that looked into this issue. Council Member Clay held at least one public meeting and conducted other research into this matter. His conclusions and recommendations are attached to this report. Issues: The legal issue to be addressed is the ability to regulate the activity. There is no case law directly on point. There appears to be a good argument that the State of California has preempted any municipal regulation of hunting. If this is correct, then the City of Atascadero may not simply ban hunting. The City would be free to ban the use of bows and arrows, or to restrict their use to safe circumstances. The draft ordinance attempts to allow safe archery rather than ban archery altogether. FISCAL IMPACT: There have been no fiscal impacts identified on this issue. ALTERNATIVES: The Council could continue the current bow hunting regulations by taking no action. ATTACHMENTS: • Notes of Sub-Committee meeting of November 14, 2001 Summary of Responses Council Member Jerry Clay's Report Draft Ordinance 0?2 NOTES 1915 1978 CITY OF ATASCADERO CITY COUNCIL SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, November 14, 2001 5:00 p.m. BOW AND ARROW HUNTING Council Member Clay called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. Others Present: Fish and Game Warden Glenn Sparks, Police Chief Dennis Hegwood, Recording Secretary Grace Pucci 1. Bow and Arrow Hunting • The Sub-Committee of the Atascadero City Council will take testimony concerning possible amendments to the Atascadero Municipal Code adding regulations for bow and arrow hunting within the City limits. Council Member Clay welcomed those present and explained that the purpose of the meeting was to gather information and comments which staff will put together with their recommendations to be forwarded to the City Council who will then make a decision regarding bow and arrow hunting in the City of Atascadero. Council Member Clay asked Fish and Game Warden Sparks how many bucks were tagged each year from Atascadero. Game Warden Sparks explained that the tags sent in are forwarded to Sacramento, processed there and sent back to the local biologist. He will check with the biologist to determine the number and forward that information to staff. Council Member Clay inquired if bow hunting would help to reduce or maintain the deer population. Game Warden Sparks stated that in this area only male deer are permitted to be taken, which most likely serves to reduce the population by some degree. Council Member Clay questioned Police Chief Hegwood about the number of complaints received regarding bow and arrow hunting. Chief Hegwood replied that some illegal bow hunting complaints have been received, however the majority of the deer are taken by legitimate • City of Atascadero Bow Hunting Sub-Committee—11/14/01 t�f�7 3 Page 1 �" hunters, and those deer have tags that are signed off by officers. They do see a lot of deer that are hit by cars and the Public Works staff picks up and disposes of those. Chief Hegwood will • get the exact numbers and forward them to staff. Council Member Clay asked for the definition of illegal hunting. Chief Hegwood stated that it includes hunting from cars, spotlighting, trespassing, arrows or wounded deer going onto private property, etc., however, these do not occur in large numbers. PUBLIC COMMENT Leon Korba, resident of Atascadero, spoke against bow hunting within the City limits. Mr. Korba related his experience with seeing deer and turkeys with arrows sticking out of them and stated that he supports archery target practice in a safe area. Ethel St. John, resident of Atascadero, read a letter from residents opposed to bow hunting within the City limits. Ms. St. John stated that she feels archery, as a sport is fine in an appropriate location, her primary concern is with the safety of Atascadero residents. (Attachment A) Game Warden Sparks stated that the examples presented by Ms. St. John in her letter are primarily illegal activities and if there is a future ban on the use of bows for hunting, that activity may not stop because it is in fact illegal and those people will still be tempted to try and take a deer. Ursula Luna, stated that she took exception to some of the questions on Council Member Clay's questionnaire. It is her understanding that the issue of hunting falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Fish and Game and not the City. She feels that the primary issue to be considered • here is not hunting but rather public safety. Mrs. Luna stated that target practice with a bow and arrow must be done in a safe, secure area because it is as dangerous as using guns. Council Member Clay explained he had put together the questionnaire primarily as an information-gathering device and filling it out is optional. Howard Dilbeck, 7505 Cortina Avenue, indicated that he is an animal lover as well as a backyard archer. He has spent considerable time and money in ensuring that his backyard is a safe site for target practice, and he would like to be able to continue with this sport. He believes that there are enough hunting laws already, but they are not being properly enforced. Joyce Zimmerman, 6225 Lomitas Road, is opposed to the shooting of bows and arrows within the City limits. She is a docent at the Charles Paddock Zoo and has a deep concern for wildlife and the thought of seeing an animal pierced by an arrow and in pain distresses her. She feels that by eliminating the use of bows and arrows within the City limits this situation would be helped. She recommended that a target shooting area be set up in a safe location in the City and is not opposed to the sport of archery if it is done in an appropriate location. Marilyn Brown, has owned property in Atascadero for 30 years and does not feel it is right to shoot a deer with an arrow and have it suffer. She stated that the growth in population in Atascadero has forced the deer out of their natural habitat, and she has concerns that with so • many more people within the City it is unsafe to be using a bow and arrow as stray arrows could hit children, pets, etc. Ms. Brown stated that safe target practice is acceptable. She also feels City of Atascadero Bow Hunting Sub-Committee—11/14/01 ('p 21 4 Page 2 t' that the City of Atascadero is leaving itself open to a lawsuit if it does not state firmly that bow and arrow hunting will be prohibited within the City limits. John McBurney, Atascadero resident, stated that he has hunted deer for their meat and has all • three apple orchards in the community tied up for hunting. He shoots inward on the property and passes many shots because the arrow could leave the property. Mr. McBurney feels that cars hit more deer than are shot with arrows. He would like to see hunting remain legal and feels that if the deer population is permitted to grow due to a ban on hunting they will become more susceptible to disease and many will die. Council Member Clay asked about overpopulation and a report he has heard that 11 deer have been killed in the Monterey Road area in the last week. Game Warden Sparks stated that this type of incident runs in cycles but it is common to have deer hit by vehicles. At this time Atascadero is not at the point of an over population of deer. Howard Dilbeck, stated that he has been a resident of Atascadero since 1976 and in that time has had six deer in his yard as well as having two born near his home, but despite this he does not want to hunt or kill any of them. He would, however, like to keep them out of his roses and fruit trees. Leon Korba, took issue with the argument that there will be hunters regardless of the law, and felt that this did not make hunting okay. Additionally, he felt that those who hunt deer for food would not be deprived of hunting altogether, but just not within the City limits. The question was raised whether there are humane ways to control the deer population. Game • Warden Sparks replied that typically this has been done through hunting. Biologists do counts on an annual basis, the counts are processed, and determinations are made as to whether they will change the season, limits, etc. To his knowledge, deer populations are not moved to other locations as it is expensive and the deer can be traumatized, injured or die in the process. Additionally, because of human population expansion in California, it is not possible to move the deer as there is less and less land available on which to locate them. In 1952 there were special hunts to take does in an effort to control the deer population. Larry Koznek, 7485 Cortina Street, has lived in Atascadero for 30 years and is an avid bow hunter and target archer. He is concerned that any new law regarding bow hunting may make it illegal to shoot targets in backyards. Mr. Koznek belongs to several local archery clubs that sponsor programs to teach children the sport of archery and they practice daily in back yards. He feels it is convenient as well as easy to set up a safe shooting range in a back yard, and that using public shooting ranges is many times inconvenient and expensive. Mr. Koznek does not object to eliminating hunting within the City limits but does not want target practice eliminated. He submitted a petition with 60 signatures and letters in support of back yard target archery. (Attachment B) Charles Lafitte stated that he lives just outside of the City limits and is chairman of an archery club. He explained to those present the different types of bows used by archers. Mr. Lafitte indicated that he only shoots at targets, not game. • City of Atascadero Bow Hunting Sub-Committee—11/14/01 G 2 5 Page 3 4 Joe Erod stated his family has lived in Atascadero since 1920 and he feels that Atascadero does not have a bow and arrow problem but rather a deer problem. He has seen 30 to 40 deer in herds • going down Portola toward the High School to the creek. Mr. Erod stated that there should either be a doe hunt or sterilize the does. The deer are in his garden and are ruining his roses and walnut trees, and for as long as he has lived in Atascadero no one has been shot with an arrow. He feels there are unique areas in Atascadero without schools, churches or children where bow hunting could be permitted. Daphne Fahsing, Atascadero property owner for 51 years, indicated that this is not an issue of deer population but rather of safety and of wounding deer. She respects those who are responsible target archers and do not shoot deer. However, she is concerned about irresponsible individuals who trespass on other people's property and feel they can do anything they like, and is very troubled about deer that are wounded and must suffer. Mrs. Fahsing pointed out that other cities in the county have ordinances against bow hunting within City limits and Atascadero should have one also. She felt that if target archers what to shoot in their backyard, perhaps they could have an inspection and get a permit. Peggy Cotine, Board Member of North County Humane Society, is against the use of deadly weapons, including bow hunting, within the City limits. She feels bow hunting has been the status quo for a long time and it is difficult to go against tradition, however change can be positive and healthy for the community. She questioned why Atascadero was the only City within the county that does not have an ordinance against the discharge of deadly weapons within the City limits. Regarding target shooting on private property, she feels this is dangerous and should be restricted to shooting ranges. She would like to see Atascadero come into line • with the other cities in the county that restrict this type of activity. Corinna Jones, 9825 Enchanto, sited an example from her own experience. She related that last year her neighbor gave his nephew permission to hunt on his property and within a short time the nephew was trespassing onto her property as well as several others in the neighborhood. The police had to be called and they asked the hunters to leave. Her point was that arrows do not necessarily stop at property lines; they travel far and are deadly weapons. Many children play in her area and they are not always aware of what is going on around them and for this reason could be in danger from stray arrows. Ms. Jones is not opposed to target practice if it is done in a safe manner. Council Member Clay asked what the penalty was for poaching. Game Warden Sparks indicated that it depends on the court but in most cases they issue a citation and have the option of taking the equipment. The court can impose fines from $200 to $1,000. Steve Grossman related an incident that happened to him in September. He lives on the top of Balboa and when driving home with his children (daughter 4 years old and son 7 years old) at a distance of about a quarter mile from their home, they saw a deer on the side of the road which appeared to be stunned. Upon closer examination the deer was seen to have an arrow through its face. His children were horrified and traumatized by what they saw. Mr. Grossman passed around a picture he had taken of this wounded deer (Attachment Q. The deer remained in the area for several days, suffering and unable to eat. He called the Police Department who referred • him to the Department of Fish and Game who then told him there was nothing they could do since bow hunting is legal and they could not tranquilize it because if the deer were to be killed City'of Ataseadero Bow Hunting Sub-Committee—11/14/01 Page 4 C 2 6 b a hunter the meat would be tainted and could not be consumed. There are man children in Y Y his neighborhood and he does not feel this is the proper environment for hunting. He asked that the ordinance be changed to eliminate bow hunting within the City limits. • Tom O'Malley, 6700 Portola, feels there are three separate issues to consider: 1) Deer overpopulation in residential areas, which must be addressed, 2) Hunting, no longer appropriate in residential areas, and 3) Target Shooting, which should be provided for in a safe environment. He advocates allowing archery target shooting, eliminating hunting within the City limits, and addressing the deer overpopulation issue. Council Member Clay inquired whether someone within the City limits could get a permit from the Department of Fish and Game even if there were an ordinance restricting bow hunting. Game Warden Sparks stated that a depredation permit specifically states that it does not invalidate any City, County or local ordinance. Agriculture would not be exempt unless the City was to exempt it. Game Warden Sparks remarked that typically the deer population increases because the predator/prey relationship gets out of balance. Therefore, if no one is hunting deer and the predators are not taking them then their population will increase to the point where there will not be enough food to support them. John McBurney, stated that he felt the meeting should be continued to a time when working people could attend as they are the ones who are doing most of the hunting. Council Member Clay stated that there would be another opportunity for people to address this • issue, as it will come before the City Council. Steve Grossman reiterated that this is not a deer issue—it is a safety issue. He feels it is absurd to be permitted to shoot a weapon within the City limits in a residential area. Charles Lafitte stated that arrows are expensive and target shooters are always sure of their impact area, as they do not wish to loose arrows. The question was raised if hunting is permitted in only certain areas of Atascadero and someone was caught hunting in non-permitted areas, would they be prosecuted. Police Chief Hegwood stated that a warning would be given on the first incidence of trespassing; the second time the individual would be fined. It was asked if there is a distinction between a trespasser with a deadly weapon and one without. Chief Hegwood stated that his department gets calls and the majority of those who are hunting legally cooperate with the officers. It is the illegal hunters that present the most problems. Larry Koznek made several points: 1) Target archery ranges are available but one must join and they are expensive, 2) There is a difference between target arrows and hunting arrows. Target arrows have a round point and do not penetrate far, hunting arrows have razor on the end to cut and penetrate, 3) Arrows shot from a compound bow, typically used for hunting, will drop 18 feet in 100 yards. He would like to see hunter safety programs that are now voluntary be made mandatory. Mr Koznek asked if the City could mail out notices of future meetings on this topic. • City of Ataseadero Bow Hunting Sub-Committee—11/14/01 GPage 5 A sheet was distributed to those in attendance who could sign up if they wished to receive a notice of future meetings. • g Daphne Fahsin stated that she did not feel another meeting was necessary as there would be a p hearing with the City Council. Council Member Clay agreed. Peter Zahn, 7465 Cortina, indicated that the top of Balboa is only a quarter mile away from the Asencion Ranch which is County property and was most likely where the deer in the Mr. Grossman's picture was shot. He feels that hunters should have surrounding property owners' permission to hunt near their properties. He also feels that bow hunting is the only way to safely take down the deer population. Joan O'Keefe asked when this issue would be agendized for the City Council. She felt that another meeting like this would be redundant. Council Member Clay stated that he would attempt to get this issue before the Council as soon as possible, hopefully within six weeks. Game Warden Sparks stated that he would contact the biologist and have him speak at the Council meeting on the topic of deer contraception. Tom O'Malley felt it would help if the three issues he raised earlier could be separated out during future discussions. It was his opinion that the majority would support eliminating hunting within the City limits. He hoped that some of the archery groups could put together a guideline/ information sheet on target practice within backyards, and he encouraged getting the biologist's view on deer contraception. ADJOURNMENT: ed those in attendance for their Council Member Clay thank o o e input and adjourned the meeting at 6.)0 p.m. MEETING RECORDED AND MINUTES PREPARED BY: Grace Pucci,Recording Secretary Attachment A—Letter from residents opposed to bow hunting Attachment B—Larry Koznek, 7485 Cortina Attachment C—Steve Grossman photo Attachment D — Bill and Sally Culver, 5005 Cascabel Road (letter submitted but not read into the record) • City of Atascadero 8 Bow Hunting Sub-Committee—11/14/01 Page 6 SUMMARY OF RESPONSES Bow Hunting in Atascadero City Limits Meeting 11/14/2001 The public has the option of filling out this information-gathering questionnaire. Please circle your answer and comment. 1. I'm a: Bow Hunter- 4 Animal Activist - 5 Atascadero property owner- 17 Atascadero resident- 15 Sports Archer - 6 Other—Hunter for meat Comments: a. Board member of NCMS. Concerned about the suffering animals as well as the possibility of pets and humans being hurt. b. A hunter but the loss of the ability to target practice is my main concern. C. Backyard target archer 2. I believe Bow Hunting in Atascadero's City limits should: A. Be eliminated - 12 B. Should continue - 6 C. Should be restricted to certain areas - 5 Comments: a. Not opposed to hunting but not within the city limits. Anyone who hunts should have the skill to make a quick kill vs. injuring the animal. b. Should be restricted to targets only C. Restricted to property owners d. Be in line with surrounding cities e. Hunter should have landowners and surrounding neighbors permission to trespass and retrieve kill f. Should be restricted totally within the city limits. g. None of the above • G 2 9 3. Bow Hunting should be restricted to certain areas in the City? Such as, • A. On West of Atascadero - 3 B. On parcels of five acres or more etc. - 1 C. YES - 7 D. NO - 8 Comments: a. All areas within City limit should be out of bounds to any kind of hunting. b. Not opposed to hunting but not within the city limits. Anyone who hunts should have the skill to make a quick kill vs. injuring the animal. C. Should be restricted everywhere within city limits. Just as rifles are. d. Do not believe bow hunting should be allowed at all in city limits. I live on 7 acres and the past two years we had hunters trespassing. The arrow does not stop at the property line. f. None of the above g. On parcels of 10 acres or more. 4. Do you know of any Bow Hunting incident that harmed any Atascadero Citizen? Please describe. a. No, however, Insurance for archery clubs is very cheap because of very little • danger. b. Bobcat was shot. Wild turkey and a goose at the lake with arrows in them. C. Not physically. Yes, emotionally d. We have been traumatized by seeing deer with arrows stuck in them. 5. Archery is a recognized Olympic Sport. If Bow hunting is eliminated in Atascadero should Citizens (Archer's) be allowed to shoot at targets? A. YES - 23 B. NO - 1 Comments: a. Very active in target archery b. Targets should be non-living. Hunting and archery as a sport are not related e. Only limited to private clubs d. In safe areas e. On shooting ranges—just like in other city ordinances f. With adequate backing behind hunting g. Will continue to shoot at target h. In designated, fully posted, public target areas • 030 6. How would you describe Atascadero's deer population? A. Just right, an asset - 9 • B. Over populated, a nuisance and a danger to motorists - 12 Comments: a. Enjoy the deer and put up with the damage they cause b. The deer are a nuisance at times but so are people. People have encroached into areas where deer lived. Overall, deer population have decreased, people have increased. C. Enjoy the deer. It is the Fish& Game's responsibility to establish if they are overpopulated. d. Being surrounded by nature is what makes Atascadero such a wonderful place to live. e. They should not be targets however, and left to suffer with arrows stuck in them. f. This is a big problem, but not related to the safety issue of bow hunting. 7. In the past ten years the deer population in Atascadero has, A. Increased considerably- 10 B. Decreased considerably - 1 C. Remained about the same - 9 Comments: a. Only lived here for 3 years. b. Have many deer in my backyard C. A lot of deer seemed to move in after the 41 fire d. Although the human population has increased 8. If the Bow Hunting of deer is stopped in Atascadero should Bow Hunting of other game species such as turkeys,wild pigs or squirrels continue to be allowed with in the City limits? A. YES - 11 B. NO - 14 Comments: a. Hunting in a residential area with children does not mix! b. Restricted to large parcels C. The animals were here first. If people want to live in a rural area, there will be animals d. Property owners should be able to practice in his backyard e. No bow hunting should be allowed,just like other cities f. No hunting inside city limits g. An arrow is a lethal weapon, regardless of the targeted animal • 031 • Bow and Arrow hunting report submitted 01/11/2001 by Councilman Jerry Clay Sr. The following is my summery of information that I have accumulated the past few months related to Bow and Arrow hunting within the Atascadero City limits. This information was compiled from letters, public testimony,petitions, E-mail, phone calls and one on one verbal contacts. I have learned that any call for change is started by one person. Daphne Fahsing was the citizen who first brought the Bow and Arrow hunting issue before the City Council last year. The most compelling evidence supporting the animal activist position was the picture taken and presented by Steve Grossman. This authentic photo of a buck deer with an arrow through its face was taken near Balboa road. In all I had 200 plus contacts on this issue. A majority wanted Bow and Arrow hunting of all game discontinued with in the Atascadero City limits. They say it put citizens at risk and is inhumane. Most do not object to the sport of target archery with in the Atascadero City limits. Concern relating to the present and future over population of deer with in the Atascadero City limits was expressed by many. They say deer have become a nuisance and a danger to motorists. Some expressed concern about the trespassing that accompanies Bow and • Arrow hunting. As with all issues that come before the City Council, usually input is received from a relative few, 200 plus in this case. Then the City Council has to make a decision that is in the best interest of all Atascadero's 25,000 citizens. To Bow hunt or not to Bow hunt The danger factor Those who want Bow and Arrow Hunting stopped say its puts residents in danger of injury or worse. A hunting arrow was found in a home owners yard and a hunter was confronted stalking a deer near or in a home owners yard where children play. I will not discount genuine fear felt by any one and agree that seeing a deer with arrow protruding from its body is disturbing. The fact is that no one has come to me with a statement or story of a known injury or even a close encounter from an arrow shot in Atascadero or and other area. Certainly every action has its risks and Bow and Arrow hunting is not an exception. One citizen said you are at a greater risk crossing El Camino Real or driving your car any where than you are from a Bow hunter. Bow hunters tell me that most shots are taken from 35 yards or less. That a missed shot will see the arrow drop to the ground quickly unlike a bullet shot from a gun that can travel a mile or two. • 032 1 Trespassing Hunting deer with a bows and arrows in the Atascadero area has been on going for hundreds of • years. This was one of the ways Native Americans harvested food. When a deer is shot with an arrow there is seldom an instant kill. Even with a direct hit,to the heart a deer can run 50 or 60 yards. Bow and Arrow hunting could be described as a shoot and track or follow sport. A wounded deer can travel from 100 yards to a mile or two before they succumb. A diligent hunter will follow the deer they have hit. This, in my opinion is where the biggest problem arises with Bow and Arrow hunting in Atascadero. Most of the parcels with in the City limits in the prime deer populated areas are now developed. Many of the deer that are shot move into another property owners acreage. The hunter is compelled to follow. I see no way to keep this from happening or correct this problem. It is also very enticing to the bow hunter that sees a buck on property they do not have permission to hunt on. Some hunters cannot resist this temptation. Trespassing will enviably occur in these situations. Comments from those that support Bow and Arrow hunting in Atascadero Bow hunting for deer and other game with in the city limits is safe. There are no reported accidents that any one knows of Bow hunting in the area is a tradition carried forward by the Native Americans. Bow hunters provide a service to the community by keeping the deer population manageable..Bow hunting provides a traditional meat source for some who have lived • in the area for many years. Most Bow and Arrow hunters are responsible. There are only a few that trespass or break laws and these few should be dealt with individually. One long time resident summed up his frustration like this. Before these folks came we use to clam at Atascadero Beach, pry abalone off the rocks near Cayucos and fish for steelhead trout in Atascadero creek and the Salinas River. We could hunt quail, dove, pigeons, squirrels and deer with rifles and shot guns with in the City limits.Now they want to stop us from Bow hunting. Comments from those who want Bow and Arrow hunting stopped in Atascadero Bow hunting for deer and other game with in the City limits puts citizens in danger. It is an inhumane action toward our wild animal population. Trespassing by Bow hunters is inevitable and causes unnecessary confrontations between hunters and property owners. Atascadero no longer has wide open spaces and we should follow the lead of other cities and ban Bow and Arrow hunting. Atascadero's human population is to the point where Bow hunting can no longer be allowed. Deer birth control or sterilization should be pursued as a humane way to control over population. • Cf33 The sport of Archery / target Archery with in the City limits • Archery is a recognized Olympic Sport. Those who practice archery on their property have expressed concerned that they could lose this privilege. Of all the people who filled out the questionnaire or communicated with me only one was against target archery with in the city limits. Several stated that it should be limited to shooting ranges. Most felt that back yard target archery was acceptable and healthy. Archery enthusiasts pointed out that their sport is very safe which is reflected in low insurance rates at Archery ranges. The large lot and parcel sizes in Atascadero are ideal for target archery. That archery is a healthy sport passed on from father to sons or daughters. That Archery is still part of P.E. classes in some of our county schools. The schools have multiple targets and many participants.They noted that the area in recent years has produced some fine young accomplished archers. No one has come forward with any evidence or stories depicting target archery as being unsafe or unhealthy. Atascadero deer population now and in the future A majority of the citizens that filled out the questionnaires or communicated with me felt that Atascadero had reached a deer over populated state or would soon be there. That the deer were a nuisance and presented a danger to motorists. It should be noted that these results were very close to 50% over populated and 50%just right and that a lot of citizens enjoy the deer. I talked with Merlin Pool who has lived on the south side of Pine Mountain for 74 years. He confirmed my observation that you seldom if ever seen a deer on Pine Mountain, in the Salinas River or with in a mile or two of the down town in the 1940,50,60 or 70. Merlin said he now has 4 to 6 deer bedded down in his back yard every evening, which is fine with him. I agree with Game Warden Sparks who stated he did not think we were at the point of over population yet. I do think we are headed in that direction. Man has been hunting deer in the Atascadero area for hundreds of years. When that stops there will be one less predator. Deer that are not killed by man, predators or disease can live 10 to 15 years. Does have one or two fawns a year during their adult life. Other communities in our nation have experienced deer population explosions when hunting was completely eliminated due to urbanization. Some have had to hire professional bow or rifle sharp shooters to reduce deer populations. These measures are usually triggered when someone in the community is killed in a deer car collision. National news reported today (1/11/2001)that millions of dollars are spent each year as a result of deer and car collisions. Regrettably people are some times killed in these accidents. Our Public Works Dept. estimates that they pick up 60 or so deer each year that are killed by cars. I'm sure there are a number of others deer that make it off the road and into the brush before they die. If Bow hunting is eliminated with in the City limits, the automobile, mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats and poachers will be the only predators. Deer are currently attracting mountain lions into populated areas of Atascadero. This is a concern of some residents who see the mountain loins as a threat to them and their families. Our Police Dept estimates that they respond to about 15 calls pertaining to poaching in Atascadero each year. Deer birth control or sterilization is in an experimental stage and may be an option to control overpopulation in urban areas in the future. • Conclusion: 1. The build out of most available lots and human population pressures in the prime deer • populated areas plus the trespassing issue will have to be considered in the City Council decision. 2. Target Archery is a healthy sport and should not be a part of any ordnance considered by the Council. .- 3. Atascadero will likely experience deer over population at some point in the future which another council will have to grapple with. • G 3 5 DRAFT ORDINANCE • DISCHARGE OF FIREARMS AND DANGEROUS WEAPONS PREAMBLE. Purpose and Intent The City Council finds that the discharge of weapons in the City and also upon public property is inherently dangerous to the citizens of Atascadero due to the inability to guarantee that the objects discharged will remain safely upon the premises or to guarantee that the objects discharged will not cause harm to people and/or animals. The City recognizes a compelling interest in preserving the safety of the community generally and providing a higher degree of protection for its citizens from the dangerous effects of the discharge of weapons. NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Atascadero does ordain that sections 4- 3.101 through 5-6.06 of the Atascadero Municipal Code are amended to read as follows: 4-3.101 Definitions As used in this chapter, unless the context clearly requires a different meaning, the following words are defined as indicated below: (a) Firearm Defined. Any device, including but not limited to a gun, pistol, rifle, air • rifle or air gun, b-b gun, arrows, crossbow, or other instrument of any kind, character or description which throws or projects a bullet or missile or substance by means of elastic force, air, or by the force of any explosion, or other form of combustion. (b) Dangerous Weapon Defined. Any device designed to be used as a weapon which is capable of expelling a solid projectile in excess of fifty (50) feet. 4-3.102 Exemptions. The provisions of this chapter shall not prohibit the discharge of appropriate firearms or dangerous weapons when necessary to protect a human life or to destroy or kill any predatory or dangerous animal while defending oneself or another person against an immediate threat of great bodily harm or as otherwise provided by law. 4-3.103 Discharge of firearms or dangerous weapons. It is a misdemeanor for any person to willfully discharge any firearm or dangerous weapon within the city limits except in archery ranges, shooting galleries and on pistol or rifle ranges, the locations of which have been approved by the Chief of Police, or as otherwise provided by law. • C' 4-3.104 Misuse of dangerous weapons. • It is a misdemeanor for any person under the age of eighteen, and without the immediate supervision of a parent or guardian or an adult designated by the minor's parent or guardian, to willfully fire or willfully discharge any weapon or device as defined in this chapter within the city limits. In no instance may such weapons be discharged by a minor within one hundred (100) feet of any building or livestock without the permission of the property owner. 4-3.105 Nuisances-disposition of weapons. (a) Upon conviction of a defendant, a firearm used in the commission of, or in an attempt to commit, any violation of this code, is a nuisance. (b) Upon conviction of a defendant, any weapon described in subsection (a) of this section shall be surrendered to the Chief of Police, who shall dispose of such weapon as provided by law, except that upon the certification of a judge of a court of record, the City Attorney or of the District Attorney of the County of San Luis Obispo, that the ends of justice will be subserved thereby, the weapon shall be preserved until the necessity for its use ceases. 4-3.1-7 Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this ordinance is for any reason deemed or held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent • jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this ordinance. The City Council of the City of Atascadero hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases or other portions might subsequently be declared invalid or unconstitutional. The foregoing ordinance was approved and adopted at a meeting of the City Council held on , 2002, by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: ADOPTED: • G 3 7 ITEM NUMBER: C- 1 DATE: 01/22/2002 a !',0 14 I� :i 1918 I 1979 . � ASCADFRQi/ Atascadero City Council Staff Report - City Manager's Office City Council Strategic Planning RECOMMENDATION: City Council receive public input regarding priorities for the future. DISCUSSION: The City Council implemented a strategic planning program five years ago and annually updates the effort. The program is intended to establish organizational goals to focus the efforts of City • staff on the Council's top priorities. The process serves the organization in several ways including: ❑ Identifying the areas in the organization that are going well and the ones not performing up to Council's expectations ❑ Providing an opportunity for the City Council to discuss and review the various operating departments. ❑ Providing City staff with a general understanding of Council expectations. • Enhancing working relations and teamwork. The process also serves the community by: ❑ Providing additional opportunities for input and to review the City's agenda. ❑ Setting forth the Council's priorities so that the community can hold the organization accountable. This year the strategic planning workshop will be held January 29th and 30th in the fourth floor rotunda. Staff has published an invitation to community members to speak at tonight's Council meeting regarding future priorities. The information gathered tonight will be included with the information developed at the Strategic Planning Workshop to assist the Council in establishing future priorities. This also provides another opportunity for community members to participate in the process. • C. 39 ITEM NUMBER: C- 1 - DATE: 01/22/2002 The current City Council priorities are: ❑ Roads • ❑ Youth/Community Center ❑ Downtown ❑ Economic Development ❑ General Plan ❑ Community Involvement ❑ Code Enforcement/Neighborhood Preservation ❑ Funding City Services ❑ Growth Mitigation Program ATTACHMENTS: 1. Tentative Agenda for this year's strategic planning workshop 2. The City Council Norms. 3. The Council Vision statements. G540 City of Atascadero . City Council Strategic Planning Workshop January 29-30, 2002 Tentative Agenda ❑ Welcome- Review of Strategic Planning program and general housekeeping issues ❑ Introductions- Brief introductions of Council Members and Staff(30 min) ❑ Public Forum- ❑ Review Expectations of Council Members for the 2002 Strategic Planning Workshop ❑ Review Leadership Styles of Council Members and management team. Discuss the differences in style and the resulting communications issues. ❑ What is going well? The City Council will develop a list of items considered "going well" for the community. ❑ What have we accomplished since our 2001 workshop? [The City Council and Department Heads will he served dinner at 6.00p.m. Members of the public planning to attend should provide their own meal.] ❑ Dinner. The City Council Members and City staff will be served dinner at 6:00 p.m. Members of the public planning to attend should provide their own meal. ❑ Overview of City operations ❑ Report from the operating departments ❑ Administrative Services ❑ Technology ❑ Community Services ❑ Community Development ❑ Public Works ❑ Fire ❑ Police ❑ Adjourn until 8:30 Wednesday morning. ❑ Identify the priority issues. Develop a list of issues that City Council members deem as organizational priorities. • G44 ❑ Review City Council norms. The City Council has a list of Council norms that are • annually reviewed. ❑ What is not going as well as we would like? The City Council will develop a list of items considered"not going as well as we would like" for the community. ❑ Lunch. The City Council and City staff will be served lunch at 12:00 p.m. Members of the public planning to attend should provide their own lunch. ❑ City Council Vision. The City Council has developed a series of individual statements, which loosely describe the Council's long term vision for Atascadero. These statements will be used as a basis for discussion,they may be modified, deleted or others added. ❑ Identify Department/Division priorities. Based upon the Council's discussion and the presentation by staff, the Council will provide direction regarding Council priorities for each operating area in the City. ❑ Identify City Council priorities. Based upon the workshop, the City Council will identify three to five priorities for the organization. Staff will develop implementation plans for the priorities and present them to Council at a later Council Meeting. ❑ Adjournment • • 0, 42 R CITY OF ATASCADERO • COUNCIL NORMS 2001 1. We disagree without being disagreeable. 2. We will work to further our support and trust of each other regardless of differences on issues or projects. 3. The Mayor is selected by Council majority, annually. The Mayor Pro Tem does not automatically become mayor. 4. As a desired guideline, the Council supports two-year committee assignments to develop expertise and continuity. 5. Respect skills and perspective of all Council Members 6. An informal system of direct communication with staff is used but not abused by Council. 7. The Council and Staff should not blindside each other in public; if there is an issue or a question a Council Member has on an agenda item, that Member should contact Staff prior to the meeting. 8. Council should be informed by Staff when an unusual event occurs that the public would be concerned about. 9. If an agenda item is a hot issue call City Manager to let him know. 10. Okay to call staff to ask questions. However, if you call City Manager he will be aware of issue and can direct you to the right person and can follow through if needed. 11. Council Members may ask questions of anyone in the audience. The public will be allowed to address the City Council after the close of the hearing at the discretion of the Mayor. 12. There shall be mutual respect from both Staff and Council Members of their respective roles and responsibilities. 13. City staff shall acknowledge the Council as policy makers and the City Council shall acknowledge staff as administering the Council's policies. • City of Atascadero Recommended Council Norms-2001 Page 2 14. Council Members shall not attempt to coerce or influence staff in the making of appointments, the awarding of contracts, the selection of consultants, the processing of • development applications, the granting of City licenses or permits. Council Members shall not attempt to change or interfere with the operating policies and practices of any City department. 15. Council Members should not attempt to influence commission or committee recommendations, or to influence or lobby individual commission or committee members on any item under their consideration. It is important for commissions and committees to be able to make objective recommendations to the City Council on items before them. Members of Council that attempt to strongly influence commission positions on any item may prejudice or hinder their role in reviewing the commission's recommendation as a member of the City Council. 16. If a Council Member represents the City before another governmental agency, the Council Member should indicate the majority position and opinion of the Council, if known. Personal opinions and comments may be expressed only if the Council Member clarifies that these statements do not represent the position of the City Council. 17. If a Council Member visits a site or has ex parte contact which is the subject of a Council action, the Member will report that information. 18. City Council Members should keep all written materials and verbal information provided to them on matters that are confidential under State law in complete confidence to ensure . that the City's position is not compromised. No mention of information in these materials should be made to anyone other than Council Members, the City Attorney or City Manager. 19. City Council Members will receive agenda's and minutes for Commission and Committee meetings, but Council Members are not required to attend the meetings. 20. Arrange for periodic presentations to the council by Department Heads on Department issues, priorities and functions. 21. Conduct of Council Meetings • Make sure Council votes to continue meeting past 11:00 p.m. • Hear all Council Members out fully 22. Council Agendas and Staff Reports • Include as much information as possible • Use summaries and provide back-up • Make sure Planning Commission vote is in report • No late reports • Include fiscal impact • Work to have agendas out by Wednesday • G,44 City of Atascadero Recommended Council Norms-2001 Page 3 23. Council Members relations with City Staff • • Council Members will route requests and Staff contacts through the City Manager 0 Council Members will not request work of Staff that requires research • No surprises 24. The City Council will review these norms annually. 25. 26. • 27. • �R�1 Council's Vision for Atascadero - 2001 THAT: • ■ The Lake Park is a local and regional activity center. ■ The City Hall and Sunken Gardens are social and historical amenities. ■ The Zoo is an educational and recreational attraction of the regional community. ■ The Library is a cultural and educational resource of the community. ■ Plays, music, dances, etc. facilitated through public/non-profit/private partnerships. ■ Parks and facilities are attractive, well maintained and meet community needs. ■ The School District and City work together to provide improved services to the community. ■ Recreational services are financially appropriate. ■ Council and community agree on service levels with an economy to support those levels. ■ Elected officials and City staff work to serve the entire community. ■ The attitude in government is to only spend with a realistic plan. ■ Revenues are sufficient to fund our City services ■ The General Plan is internally consistent. ■ There is a diversified housing mix with entry level, mid-level, high-end while preserving natural amenities. ■ The rural atmosphere is maintained within our oak forest making Atascadero distinguishable from other cities. ■ Atascadero has a quality of life where people want to live/work. ■ The Highway 101 corridor visually attractive. ■ The natural environment is protected. ■ Events that celebrate our community assets are encouraged. ■ "Large lots" is the dominant residential style ■ "Community" means more than my backyard. ■ Neighborhoods are crime-free. ■ Downtown is a pedestrian friendly area with stores, ice cream shops, antique shops, restaurants etc., with seating in park areas. Community events are held Downtown. ■ Downtown is consistently planned to reflect the community character. ■ Roads are in good shape. ■ Infrastructure is in good shape. ■ Atascadero supports its youth through a broad range of wholesome activities. ■ The educational needs of youth are considered. ■ Job opportunities for youth are provided. ■ Safe bicycle and pedestrian circulation are provided. ■ Businesses are encouraged that provide jobs with "wage earner" salaries that allow youth to stay in community. ■ Clean, attractive and a planned range of businesses that accommodate all community labor backgrounds are retained and recruited. ■ Non-polluting industrial development to supply jobs is expanded. ■ The City is financially stable with reserves in good shape. ■ A healthy diversified tax base is developed. ■ Volunteers are recruited to expand City services. ■ A swimming complex is developed. ■ A plan is developed for public use for Stadium Park. ■ There is continued contact and input from the broadest possible population. • ■ There is a viable General Plan. t �1b ITEM NUMBER: C-2 " DATE: 01/22/2002 �. 197e Atascadero City Council - Staff Report - City Manager's Office Assembly Bill 1755 (Maldonado) RECOMMENDATION: City Council authorize the Mayor to sign a letter in support of AB 1755 (Maldonado) increasing the penalties for escape at the State Hospital. DISCUSSION: Assemblymember Maldonado has introduced AB 1755 to the State Assembly. The bill (attached) would expand the penalty for escape to some patients not currently covered by existing law. The bill also requires notification of the City's police department in case of an escape. This is one of the measures the City requested in the last few years to increase the security of the facility and enhance public safety to the community. FISCAL IMPACT: None ALTERNATIVES: Decline to take a osition on the legislation. P • 047 AB 1755 Assembly Bill -INTRODUCED Page 1 of 2 BILL NUMBER: AB 1755 INTRODUCED BILL TEXT • INTRODUCED BY Assembly Member Maldonado JANUARY 7, 2002 An act to amend Section 4536 of the Penal Code, relating to mentally disordered offenders. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST AB 1755, as .introduced, Maldonado. Mentally disordered offenders: escape and notice. Existing law penalizes escape from a state hospital or other public or private mental health facility when a person is committed upon a finding of not guilty by reason of insanity, or is committed as a mentally disordered sex offender. Procedures of notification are provided when a person escapes from a mental health facility who has been committed upon a finding of not guilty by reason of insanity, or committed as a mentally disordered sex offender or as a sexually violent predator. This bill also would penalize escape from a state hospital or other public or private mental health facility when a person is committed as a mentally disordered offender or as a mentally disordered sex offender and would provide notification procedures to local law enforcement agencies upon escape by a person so committed. By expanding the definition of a crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. • By imposing additional duties on local public mental health facilities, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement, including the creation of a State Mandates Claims Fund to pay the costs of mandates that do not exceed $1, 000,000 statewide and other procedures for claims whose statewide costs exceed $1,000,000. This bill would provide that with regard to certain mandates no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason. With regard to any other mandates, this bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs so mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above. Vote: majority. Appropriation: no. Fiscal committee: yes. State-mandated local program: yes. THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Section 4536 of the Penal Code is amended to read: 4536. (a) Every person committed to a state hospital or other public or private mental health facility as a mentally disordered sex offender, mentally disordered offender, or sexually violent predator, or who is confined in a state hospital or other public or private mental health facility awaiting judicial determination as a mentally disordered sex offender, mentally disordered offender, or • sexually violent predator, who escapes from or who escapes while being conveyed to or from such state hospital or other public 048 http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/bill/asm/ab_1751-.../ab_1755 bill_20020107 introduced.htm 1/13/2002 AB 1755 Assembly Bill - INTRODUCED Page 2 of 2 or private mental health facility, is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison or in the county jail not to exceed one year. The • term imposed pursuant to this section shall be served consecutively to any other sentence or commitment. (b) The medical director or person in charge of a state hospital or other public or private mental health facility to which a person has been committed as a mentally disordered sex offender ; mentally disordered offender, or sexually violent predator, or who is confined in a state hospital or other public or private mental health facility awaiting judicial determination as a mentally disordered sex offender, mentally disordered offender, or sexually violent predator, shall promptly notify the chief of police of the city in which the hospital or facility is located, or the sheriff of the county if the hospital or facility is located in an unincorporated area, of the escape of the person, and shall request the assistance of the chief of police or sheriff in apprehending the person, and shall, within 48 hours of the escape of the person, orally notify the court that made the commitment, the prosecutor in the case, and the Department of Justice of the escape. SEC. 2. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution for certain costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district because in that regard this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution. However, notwithstanding Section 17610 of the Government Code, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains other costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 • (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code. If the statewide cost of the claim for reimbursement does not exceed one million dollars ($1, 000, 000) , reimbursement shall be made from the State Mandates Claims Fund. • C> �� y http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/bill/asm/ab_1751-.../ab_1755 bill 20020107 introduced.htm 1/13/2002 ITEM NUMBER: C-3 DATE: 01/22/2002 firi 1979 • \�1SCADF�% Atascadero City Council City Manager's Office Information Bulletin A. Atascadero Lake Water Quality Atascadero Lake is a valuable asset to the community and Lake Water Quality is a Council priority. An intermittent water source, poor water circulation, shallow water depth, waterfowl, elevated summer water temperature, and other factors adversely affect the Lake's water quality. It is important to know how the Lake came into existence to better understand the Lake and make informed and realistic decisions as to what can and should be done to sustain the Lake's water quality. In 1913, E.G. Lewis purchased the J.H. Henry Ranch, including a seasonal pond that he enlarged to form "Atascadero Lake." In 1934, the County of San Luis Obispo purchased the Lake and • surrounding park. As recreational use of the Lake increased, water quality decreased. In 1950, the County was granted water rights to divert 140 acre-feet of water annually from Atascadero Creek into the Lake. In 1962, during another dry period, the sediments at the bottom of the Lake were pushed to the southeast end of the Lake, mounded, planted and declared a wildlife sanctuary. Over the years there were many periods when the County Health Department temporarily banned swimming in the Lake, due to poor water quality, and when fish die-off's occurred. In 1985, citing liability, water quality, health considerations, and difficulties in providing adequate lifeguard services, the Atascadero City Council formally barred swimming in the Lake. In 1987, the City sponsored a feasibility study for the improvement of Atascadero Lake. This investigation resulted in the generation of a report that included thirteen recommended mitigation measures. Improving Lake Water quality was the focus of nine of these measures. Although six of the recommendations were realized, funding restraints prevented full implementation of this improvement plan. Equipment failure has since rendered the Lake aeration system installed at that time inoperative. Atascadero Lake is an evaporative basin that has very little turnover of its water supply. The Lake receives runoff from the surrounding area during a few months each year and water is diverted from Atascadero Creek. Evaporation and seepage from the basin continuously reduce the volume of water in the Lake through most of the year. Summer weather warms the shallow, nutrient rich basin causing microorganism populations to multiply. The most visible and problematic of these microorganisms are the Cyanobacteria, better known as blue-green algae. Although algae plays a vital role in the lakes ecology, blue-green algae blooms can lower the • lake's oxygen level to the point where fish die-offs occur. Historically, algaecides have been used to control blue-green algae blooms. This past summer, despite treatment with an algaecide, an alga bloom depleted dissolved oxygen - €,� 5 0 ITEM NUMBER: C-3 DATE: 01/22/2002 in the Lake to the point where a fish die-off occurred. City staff is now monitoring blue-green algae propagation with weekly counts to take proactive action to mitigate future fish die-offs. • This will provide information to staff to time the application of algaecides and improve the mitigation of alga blooms. The Public Works Department has initiated The Atascadero Lake Water Quality Action Plan. This plan is set to implement the recommendations from the 1987 study. Council funded this program with $10,000 last year and $25,000 over the next two years. Although additional funds will be required to bring the 1987 study recommendations to fruition, current Action Plan objectives are: 1. Improve Lake Fill Line 2. Domestic Waterfowl Relocation 3. Investigate New Water Well 4. Planting of Submergent and Emergent Aquatic Plants 5. Alga Bloom Reduction Several firms that specialize in lake-water management have contacted the City to offer their services, one firm recently visited the Lake and made the following recommendations (See attached proposal): 1. Initiate a Water Quality Monitoring program(Estimated Cost $1,400/mo.). 2. Supplement the native lake organisms with enzymes and additional bacteria to speed the breakdown of nutrients (Estimated Annual Cost$25,000). • 3. Replacement of the non-operative, lake aeration system (Estimated Cost$96,500). 4. Reduction of waterfowl population(Domestic waterfowl relocation already initiated). 5. Natural filtration by the use of aquatic plants. The recommendations offered by this consultant do not differ substantially from the 1987 recommendations. Perhaps most advantageous is the estimate provided of the cost to replace the currently inoperative aeration system. As part of a new State aquatic pesticide application permit program that the City will be participating in during the up-coming year, increased analysis of the Lake water will be mandatory. However, the cost of this monitoring should not average more than a few hundred dollars per month. Although it may not be practical from a financial standpoint to attempt to improve the quality of the water in the Lake to a degree that would allow resumption of body contact recreation, it is evident that without some financial commitment, the Lake will experience future episodes of distress during hot summer weather. ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A— March 1987 FeasibilityStud for the Improvement of Atascadero Lake • Y p Attachment B- Atascadero Lake Water Quality Program Action Plan Attachment C- September 14, 2001 letter of recommendations: Clean Lakes, Inc. 051 ITEM NUMBER: C-3 DATE: 01/22/2002 • B. Chamber's Activities and Programs - October through December 2001 Attached please find a City Report from the Chamber of Commerce explaining their activities from October - December 2001. • C° EXHIBIT A Atascadero Lake Atascadero , California Feasibility Study for the Improvement of Atascadero Lake An Investigative Stud-, including Historical Information , Observed Current Practices , Test Data, and Proposed Mitigation Measures March , 1981 Prepared for: Parks & Recreation Department Citi- of Atascadero Atascadero, California Prepared by : alderman Engineering 1670 12th Street Los Osos , California with technical consultation and assistance from: Dr . Robert J . Brown , Biologist Mr. Steven McMasters , Biologist • TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction 1 Summary of Lake History 2 Lake Description 3 Watershed 3 Lake Water Chemistry 5 Biological Survey 11 Vegetation 11 Fish 12 Benthic Organisms 12 Birds 13 Copper Sulfate Control of Algal Populations 16 Principal Environmental Problems 19 Possible Mitigation Measures 20 Maintaining Dissolved Oxygen Levels 20 Reducing Nutrient Levels and Improving 21 Water Quality Improvement of Human Factors 22 Scraping and Removal of Lake Bottom 23 Sediments Mechanical Filtration of Lake Water 25 Sewerage of the Surrounding Residential 26 Community • Water Wells and Water Sources 27 Shoreline Grading and Miscellaneous 28 Clean-up Planting of Additional Warm-Water Fish Species 28 Summary of Mitigation Measures 29 APPENDIX DESCRIPTION A Historical Newspaper Articles B Topographical and Watershed Layout Maps and Information C Water Chemistry Y and Physical Test Data D Lake Water Biological Test Data & Discussion E Schedule of Past Lake Trout Plantings F Schedules of Copper Sulfate Applications G Historical Accounts of Fish Die-offs H Notes from Meetings with Local Residents I Ozonation Treatment J Biofiltration K Scraping of Lake Bottom Sediments • 054 TABLE OF CONTENTS (Con't.) • APPENDIX DESCRIPTION L Wildfowl Management-Harassment & Trapping Methods M Sewerage of Residences Surrounding Atascadero Lake N Water Wells & Water Sources 0- 55 INTRODUCTION Over the last couple of decades , Atascadero Lake and Park has degenerated, as far as health , safety, and esthetic aspects are oncerned. One need only review photographs and articles of the past , as well as listen to the recollections of local long-time residents concerning the recreational opportunities and lake and park qualities which existed between the years of 1915 to the 1950 ' s to clearly reach this conclusion . The purpose of this lake feasibility study is to investigate the history- of Atascadero Lake to more fully comprehend possible restoration efforts which may be possible ; to observe and research , with the use of testing procedures , the current state of the lake , as well as observe current practices which are taking place at and around the lake ; and finally, to consider and/or recommend certain mitigation measures which may improve the conditions of the lake, with approximate estimates of monetary costs involved with these Treasures . This stud; has been commissioned by the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Atascadero , and it focuses on the improvement of Atascadero Lake itself , with a definite recreational prospective . Inherent with this standpoint is an obvious concern for public health and safety, with a main theme of the improvement of the water quality- of the lake . With this in mind , is is our hope that the process of restoration and/or improvement of many- recreational pursuits can be initiated - including (but not limited to ) , swimmin.& in designated area ( s ) , fishing , boating , etc . On recent years , there have been several episodes of fish die-offs in Atascadero Lake . The numbers of fish dying have sometimes reached several hundred.. The stressful lake and weather conditions which have accompanied and probably caused these occurrences did not take place during the period of time allotted for this study . This was unfortur:ate , from the standpoint of enablin ' first-hand investigation of some of the more severe ecological problems of the lake , under worst-case conditions . Thus , some of the conclusions in this stud., are somewhat speculative , although there is reasonable confidence that such conclusions are accurate . • 1 056 SUMMARY OF LAKE HISTORY _ There is very little in the way of a documented history- of Atascadero • Lake . The small size of the lake and surrounding community, combined with fiscal constraints at all governmental levels have acted in concert to restrict both the number and scope of previous studies . The vast majority of the historical information comes from local newspaper accounts ( see Appendix A) . These articles , from the early- 1900 ' s , indicate that the basin was filled by winter rains and receded during the summer months . The "lake" was probably used as a watering hole for livestock and/or a swimming hole by local children, much as temporary impoundments are used in agricultural areas today. In 1901 the United States Army asked Congress to purchase the J .H . Henry Ranch , including Atascadero Lake, for use as armilitary camp. Although the request was not granted, the Henry- Ranch was purchased nine years later by E . G. Lewis . During a dry period, Lewis had engineers enlarge the basin to its present day- size and shape . Newspaper accounts suggest that the enlargement of the lake was done , in part , for promotional purposes .However , Lewis certainly recog-nized the recreational Value of the lake . His 1915 promotional bulletins referred to the lake and surrounding area as a park , "preserved. . . fo= the enjoyment of the residents" . In 1916 the park at Atascadero Lake was a prominent part of the Fourth of July celebration . Recreational use of the lake by residents increased substantially through the 20 ' s and 30 ' s . In the late 1920 ' s , Lewis ' land development company- failed and in 1931 the County of Sari Luis Obispo purchased the lake and surrounding park . In 1939 a WPA project enlarged arid greatly improved the county pare . Recreational use , by count- residents , continued to increase as the county park and lake were improved .At one time a small lighthouse and Dutch windmill stood on its shore . Footbridges were built across the inlets and shrubs were planted along the shoreline . Recreational use continued into the 1940 ' s when residents from all over the county traveled to Atascadero Lake to go fishing , swim , and water ski . A swimming pool was built on the shore , north of the pavilion. Atascadero Lake and Park was truly a recreational asset for the entire community . In 1950 , San Luis Obispo County engineers surveyed the lake . A water rights application was granted for 140 acre-feet of water to be diverted from Atascadero Creek annually. A pipe was installed which extended from: the creep to the lake and the flow has controlled by a valve . The pipe is still in use at the present time. In 1962 , county engineers , using heavy equipment during low water periods , scraped the bottom; of the lake to enlarge and deepen the basin . The dry lake sediments were pushed to the South-East end of the lake and were of sufficient size to create an island at normal water levels . The island was planted and declared a wildlife sanctuary . Atascadero Lake has undergone considerable degradation and neglect over the past several decades . The motor boats , water skiers , • windmill , lighthouse , and footbridges have all been removed over the 2 0.57 years . The pool wall collapsed into' the lake, where it remains today. Most of the landscaped vegetation along the shoreline has died as the irrigation system is no longer functional . Over the years there have •been many periods when swimming in the lake was temporarily banned by the County Health Department , but in 1985 the Atascadero Citi- Council formally removed lake swimming provisions from the use ordinance which governs the Parks and Recreation Department . This ban continues in effect to the present time . Liability , water quality, health considerations , and difficulties in providing adequate lifeguard services were discussed by the council in arriving at the decision to ban swimming in Atascadero Lake . Growth of the surrounding community has made Atascadero Lake and Park subject to the unique problems and environmental pressures associated with "urban" lakes . Many residents consider the lake an appropriate dumping ground for domesticated water fowl , local teenagers have driven automobiles into the lake because they could not negotiate a turn in the road , trash from picnics litters the shoreline , goose droppin-,s contaminate grass play areas in the park , and broken bottles , I)eE'•r cane , old tires , shoes , pieces of concrete, rustin_.: pipe , and other types of trash can be seen littering the submerged shoreline . Today, in its present state , the recreational use of Atascadero Lahe is limited to jogging , fishing , non-motorized boating , bird watchin;- and quiet walks . Atascadero Lake part: and pavilion area are still used by large numbers of people on weekends and holidays . Every morning and evening a number of local residents walk around the lake and en.;o;>- the peace and tranquillity that the lake provides . Fishermen dot the • shoreline and seerr! relatively unconcerned if the fish aren' t bitin , Local children ri6e their bikes around the lake , stopping occasionally to slip rcchs across the surface . In these limited wars , Atas,adez-D Lake still continues to serve as a recreational center, providing for the enjoyment of a number of residents , many of whom can still recEll wtren the lake and park were important centers for community activities arid people took pride in these recreational resources . LAKE DESCRIPTION Watershed Atascadero Lake lies in a basin , bounded by foothills of the California Coastal Range to the west and south and a smaller series of hills to the east . Atascadero Creel: is to the north of the lake . Residential housing exists primarily along the east shore ,along Lake View Drive , and to the west along Marchant and Santa Rosa Avenues . Pasture -land exists to the south of the lake , where a small creek flows into the basin , supplying runoff water to the lake during we , periods of the year . The Santa Rosa Avenue bride crosses the creek . Flow rates in the creel: may be substantial during heavy rains , but generally are relatively small . An earth-filled dam forms the northern shoreline of the lake , along with an overflow spillway and drainage channel to Atascadero -Creek . The elevation at the top of the spillway , and hence the elevation of the water surface of the lake when the lake is full , is 910 feet , according to G.S .G. S data . • 3 Atascadero Lake is an evaporative basin, which receives residential , street , pasture land runoff, and diverted water from Atascadero CreE'_i . The lake is allotted 140 acre-feet of water annually from the creel: , which enters the lake through a 12-inch diameter cast ironinlet pipe . • The cast iron pipe is capped with a hinged cap at its end, which can be. manually opened to permit the inflow of water from the creek. The inlet is located approximately 80 feet east of the spillway, alon- the northern shoreline . Other than a few minor springs , which have been reported by local residents to exist in the deep water region of the lake, there are no other known sources of water for the lake . The majority of surface inflow occurs during the rainy months of the year and continues on into early spring . The only outflow of water from the lake generally occurs for a brief period at the end of the rainy season , over the spillway . For the remainder of the year, evaporation and seepage from the basin continuously reduce the lake volume . Thus , there is very little turnover of the water supply at the lake . No viable water cells presently exist in the immediate region surrounding the lake . If an underground aqu fer of sufficient capacity was to exist in the area , such a tater well could be developed to introduce a supply of water as required . In this way, a certain amount of Ovate= turnover could be accomplished, as well as maintain the water surface of the lake at a fairly constant level . However, experienced local well drillers report that no such viable underground aquifers exist in the area . A manually controlled gate valve exists at the northwestern sector of the lake along the shoreline( dar;, ) . It has a steel-grated opening , • which is located approximately 50 feet east of the above mentioned inlet and 130 feet east of the spillway . This outlet is capable of drainina the lake to an approximate level of 903 . 7 feet , or 6 . ' feet below the top of the spillway . Table 1 . Physical Description of Atascadero Lake and Watershed. Size 30 . 5 Acres Maximum Depth 13 Feet Average Depth 6 . 85 Feet Maximum Volume 9 , 100 , 000 Cubic Feet 68 , 100 , 000 Gallons 209 Acre-feet Maximum Shoreline 6 , 500 Feet 1 . 23 'i_1es Maximum Length 2 , 430 Feet Matimum Width 910 Feet. Watershed 458 Acres See Appendix B for Topographic maps and inform.at on for Atascadero Lak» . • 4 059 TABLE 2. Water chemistry data for several local lakes. WATER CHELT STRY \acimiento Salinas Lopez Atascadero CALIF 0 Lake Reservoir Lake Lake STD Temperature(Centigrade ) 25 21 24 pH 8 . 4 8 . 0 8 . 15 8 . 3 Total Dissolved Solids* 262 174 444 620 <IOOC Carbonate(as CaCO3 )* - - - - Bicarbonate( as CaCO3 )* 88 97 255 160 Total Alkalinity2 88 97 255 160 Sulfate* 33 82 117 180 <�OC Chloride' 7 . 4 8 . 0 19 6O ;5U( Copper2 0 . 02 0 . 008 0 . 007 <0 . 04 < 1 . ( Zinc* - 0 . 036 0 . 015 0 . 04 <5 . ( `]ancranese* - 0 . 007 0 . 013 0 . 095 <') . C Total Hardness* 108 142 367 370 eSpecific Conductance* * 267 342 670 800 < i60; Calcium* 2 : 32 91 80 Magnesium* 11 •15 3=1 39 Sodium* 12 19 25 32 Iron* - 0 . 191 O . Q52 0 . 72 <0 . 3,' Nitrate-\= - <0 . 02 0 . 01 <0 . 01 < 10 . ( :citrate as NO3 * - <0 . 04 0 . 04 <0 . 4 Ammonia* - 0 . 00 - 0 . 3 Organic Nitroger.* 0 . 33 - - 1 .3 Ortho-Phosphate* 0 . 01 - - <0 . 03 ( 9/10/8E 0 . 15 ( 121/ 16/8E Total Phosphate* 0 . 0: - - <0 . 03 ( 9/ 10/8E 0 . 30 ( 1'2:/ 16/8:. * =milligrams/liter; * * =micromhos CALIF STD= State of California drinking dater standards • See Appendix C for analytical laboratory� reports . 5 060 Stater chemistry data for three major drinking crater reservoirs in San Luis Obispo County and Atascadero Lake are shown in Table 2 . The water chemistry of any lake is dependent upon the chemical composition of the soils within the watershed and lake basin, frequency of coastal rains (high in sodium chloride ) , and ground water composition. Land use within the watershed is extremely important , since such use may resul-i in "foreign" chemicals being added to the lake . For example , residential use can result in sewage contamination, farming can result in the introduction of toxic pesticides , or mining may result in accelerated entry of heavy metals . Lastly , actual use of the lake may contribute significantly to the crater chemistry. Boat use significantly- increases gasoline and oil residues , over the amount Cf these residues added by street runoff in a residential area . The higher Total Dissolved Substances in Atascadero Lake is probably due mostly to evaporative concentration . While evaporation occurs in all bodies of water , reservoirs tend to have high inflow rates and equally high outflot- rates , thus evaporative concentration canno4. si nificantly increase the total dissolved solids . However , in Atascadero Lake , runoff entering the lake only floes through the l[dile and out the spillwa;- for a relatively brief period. The comparatively small watershed of Atascadero Lake provides barely enough water to maintain the lake level ; hence the need for the 140 acre-feet annual allotment from Atascadero Creek . Warm, dry days cause high evaporation rates and commensurate concentration of dissolved substances . Thus , the relatively high concentration of dissolves'. substances in Atascadero Lake is certainly to be expected and is _o, due to pollution . Indeed, using total dissolved substances as a single criterion , Atascadero Late crater meets the drini._ing crater standards. • set by tht' State of California . Ir. general , lakes in San Luis Obispo County are relative alkaline , having a pli between 7 . 5 and 8 . 5 throughout most of the year . Because the total dissolved solids , particularly bicarbonates , are also hih , the lane waters tend to be well buffered and relatively resistant tc fluctuations in acidity. pH is a measure of acidity and plays a critical role in controllin the solubility of chemicals in the Later . For example , if the pH of Atascadero lake crater decreased from 8 . 3 to 5 . 3 , any calcium carbonate in the lake would dissolve to produce calcium ion , bicarbonate ion , and carbon dioxide ge.s . Since snail an(2t clam shells a% composed of calcium carbonate , their shells wou= d dissolve . The acidity of the water would. make it impossible for most aquatic organisms to maintain the slightly basic ph of their blood . It would also male it more difficult for the animals anc. plants to remove metabolically produced carbon dioxide from their tissues . Those animals dependent upon hemoglobin, ( the red pigment in blood which is responsible for binding oxygen at the respiratory surface ) , would begin to have trouble taking up needed oxygen from the water, as hemoglobin ' s ability to bind oxygen is greatly reduced in acidic conditions . Thus , a shift in the pH of a lake can result in the death of fish due to lack of oxygen, even though the water may be saturated with oxygen . Hence , the concern exists regarding acid rains and their impact on natural waters . Atascadero Lake water is well buffered and is not subject to rapid nor extensive changes in pl . • e An acidic shift in the pH of a lake would cause a chemical impact in _ that compounds such as copper hydroxide and copper bicarbonate become unstable and begin to dissolve if the pH drops below 8 . 0 . Dissolving hese compounds results in the release of copper ion into the water , nd this release can and does kill organisms under these conditions . However , copper is not the only problem, as most heavy metals are extremely toxic , and exhibit chemical behaviors similar to that of copper. Thus cadmium, nickel , zinc , mercury, and a host of other elements may be released into the water column from the sediments and from suspended colloids in the water as a result of a shift in pH toward the acid range .The buffering capacity of Atascadero Lake water appears to be sufficient to prevent such potentially detrimental shifts in pH. The comparatively high sulfate concentration present in Atascadero Lake , is almost certainly due to evaporative concentration and represents no health or environmental hazard. Sulfate ion is estremel�- soluble , but complexes with a wide variety- of positively charged ions farming insoluble precipitates . Bacteria in the lake sediments can reduce the sulfates to sulfides , the most apparent of which is hydrogen sulfide . This chemical is often characterized as smellin.- like "rotten eggs" . Hydrogen sulfide is extremely toxic and is responsible for many fish :ills during the late winter and fall months . Hydrogen sulfide is rapidly oxidized by dissolved oxygen . Thus , any build-up of hydrogen sulfide occurs only when the lake pater hal. little , or no dissolved oxygen . Hydrogen sulfide build-up is common in deep lakes , but is far less common in shallop: lakes such as Atascadero Lake . Generally , in shallow lakes mixing by the wind and -hutosynthetic addition of oNygen by submerged plants and algae• act in oncert to maintain relatively- high oxygen levels throughout the depth of the lake . In the bottom sediments of all lakes bacteria consume oxygen and create low oxygen conditions at or near the mud-water interface . Thus , hydrogen sulfide is almost always preser.t in noticeable amounts in the sediments of lakes . It is not uncommon for someone to smell hydrogen sulfide in the mud on their boots , and th-_-n suggest that the lake is polluted. However , in polluted waters , hydrogen sulfide can be detected by just smcl_ino the water . The comparatively high chloride level in Atascadero Lake , at first glance might- lool._ like a greater marine influence than in the other lakes . However ,, most chloride salts are very soluble and soils contain a high percentage of non-sodium chloride salts . The levels of sodium and chloride are highest in Atascadero . Lake ; however , the' concentratior;s are well within the physiological scope of the species presently in the lake and do not. pose any current or future problen: for the biota . Copper ion is relatively insoluble in water and even less soluble in alkaline , hardwater like that in Atascadero Lake . Thus , even though County and City employees have been spraying Atascadero Lake with copper sulfate solutions (aquatic weed and algal control measure ) for many years , there has been no build-up of copper ion in the lake water . The dissolved copper concentration is below the maximum •drinking water standard and is not a health hazard . i 062 Zinc , like copper, is toxic in high concentration , but the levels present in Atascadero Lake are extremely- low and not hazardous . Manganese and iron both exist in concentrations exceeding the drinking • water standards . These ions are chemically associated and undergo similar geochemical cycling . They are easily bound by organic compounds , humic acids , produced by the decay- of plant materials . Neither iron nor manganese are present in the lake water as dissolved ions , but rather exist as flocculent suspensions of colloidal hydroxides . As such , these ions are not readily- available to organism1i in the lake , nor would they cause the water to taste or smell metallic . Total hardness is a frequently used measure of water quality. Hardness is governed by the combined levels of calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride , sulfate , carbonate , and bicarbonate ions . Residents of Atascadero know that the public drinking water system is generally considered to be moderately hard water. In general , water hardness values are lot: in high mountain , alpine lakes and highest in lot: desert ponds and lakes . Soil chemistry- of the watershed of a lake is major factor in determining the relative hardness of the water . The presence of calcium rich deposits in the watershed will gene-•a_=% mean that lakes in the region have relatively hard water . Specific conductance is a measure of the concentration of electrolytes , which are charged ions and molecules that are dissolved in the wz;ter . Da la shot.n in Table 2 . ( also see Appendix C ) , show that Ataseadero Lake has the hi-'hest level of dissolved electrolytes of the four lakes shown . This is not surprising since Atascadero Lake is an evaporation basin ai--,d all dissolved substances become 'concentrated • through the year as a result of evaporative crater loss duringe the dry season . Calcium , magnesium , and sodium are important ions in a wide range of physiological processes in both plants and animals . The levels of these dissolved substances in Atascadero Lake are well above the minimum required levels and well below the maximum levels tolerated by most organisms . Tt is most unlikely that durin, the driest years the concentration of these ions would become dangerously high through evaporative concentration . Likewise , it is unlikely that high rainfall years dilute the lake water sufficiently to represent a threat to the species of plants and animals inhabiting the lake . Phosphate and nitrate levels in Atascadero Lake water are in the lot- range for eutrophic la1%es . Ammonia , nitrate and organic nitrogen levels are all considerably higher than in the other lakes shown in Table 2 . These compounds typically come from the decay of organic materials , mostly plants , in the lake . However, the small size of emergent and submergent vegetation coupled with a poorly developed riparian community( shoreline plants ) , suggests that the decaying plant material is probably not responsible for the high ammonia, nitrate , and organic nitrogen and phosphate levels . The highest levels of phosphate were observed to occur in December ( see Appendix C) . The values increased from the late summer le.-els of <0 . 03 to 0 . 15 mg/l in December . The apparent cause of this increase was an absence of • rainfall coupled with fall stagnation conditions . Phosphate is rapidly 8 U3 accumulated by algae suspended in th7e water , but when the populations _ of planktonic algae and submerged plants are loci, phosphate levels will tend to increase . Evaporative water loss would also be expected ORegardless o contribute to the increase in concentration . of their source , the nitrate and phosphate levels are not sufficiently high to be of concern. Phosphate and nitrate are required by plants and thus provide a nutrient base for the entire ecosystem. Table 3 . Heavy metal composition of the sediments in Atascadero Lake. ( from Appendix C) Metal Milligrams per Kilogram Arsenic 1 . 9 Barium 29 . 0 Cadmium 4 . 5 Chromium 14 . 0 Copper 32 . 0 Lead 5 . 2 Mercury 0 . 01 Selenium 0 . 06 Silver 0 . 3 It ha_, lone been recognized that pollution of waters by metals , such as lead , mercury , chromium , and copper sometimes brings about drastic changes in their- flora and fauna. Modern techniques of analysis have prodded the tools with which ecologists have been able to document the distribution and biological impact of heavy metal accumulation. . The term "heavy- metal " refers to about 40 elements . A number of these .elements are actually required in metabolic pathways of plants and animals and thus are referred to as "essential micronutrients" . But the vast majority of heavy metals have not been shown to be required for normal grot:th of organisms and all are known to be toxic 1- hig:i concentration . Heavy metals are taken up by plants and animals and accumulated in their tissues . When an animal feeds on a plant containing heavy metals , those metals become accumulated in the animal . When a hawk eats a coot , heavy metals accumulated in the coot tissue= are absorbed by the digestive tract of the hay-i: and bec•or c accumulated in the hawk tissues-principally the liver . Hea,.y metals are WC111 known to accumulate at all levels irs the food chair, and to increase dramatically- in concentration in each step up the chain. >=c_- example , copper is present in minute amounts in the waters of Nacimiento Lal:e ( see Table 2 . ) , but the concentration in white bass tissue is more than 20 , 000 times higher than that of the cater . Pio- accumulation and concentration: thus become important considerations in the study and management use of heavy metals . Bio-accumulation of copper in Atascadero Lake was not investigated in this project , sinc,:� such studies require resources beyond those provided in this project . The concentrations of heavy metals in Atascadero Lake sediments do not exceed bachground soil concentrations . This does not mean that Atascadero Lake is not subject to heavy- metal additions from street or watershed runoff , but -only that such additions are insignificant and have not resulted in detectable accumulation in the sediments . The •most significant heavy metal intrusion in Atascadero Lake is due to the use of copper sulfate for algae control . 9 C04 Table 4 . Distribution of dissolved oxygen and temperature in Atascadero Lake . ( from Appendix C) Depth Temp. CO Oxygen mg/liter Date • Surface 27 . 5 11 . 4 7/29/86 1 ft 27 . 5 11 . 2 2 27 . 3 10 . 8 3 26 . 2 10 . 5 4 25 . 0 8 . 4 5 24 . 0 6 . 2 6 24 . 0 5 . 4 7 23 . E 5 . 3 8 23 . 8 4 . 3 Surface 24 . 5 8 . 2 9/9/8C 1 24 . 5 8 . 0 2 24 . 0 8 . 0 3 24 . 0 7 . 9 4 23 . 5 7 . 5 -- 5 23 . 0 7 . 2 6 23 . 0 6 . 5 7 22 . 5 6 . 0 8 22 . 0 5 . 9 8 . 5 22 . 0 5 . 5 As shown in Table 4 . , Atascadero Lake does stratify , both in terms of temperature and dissolved oxygen. The observed stratification dt;rir:g the testing period of 1986 would not be detrimental to fish in the lake , nor would it greatly- restrict their movements . Houever , the summe=r of 198C was comparatively mild. , having only a few days exceeding 90 degrees F . . Even though the lake is relatively shallow, high turbidity reduces light penetration cadsinjthe energy of thie sunlight to be absorbed in the upper strata of the lake . The depth tc which light can penetrate in the water can be measured by using a SFcchi Disk . Atascadero Lal:e had a Secchi Disk reading of between 1 . 0 and 1 . 5 feet during the study period. This is a very -log, reading and attests to the fact that Atascadero Lake water is extremely turbid due to the vast amount of suspended material in the water column . Phytoplanl,ton , zooplankton, bacteria, colloids , and organic comple-_es all contribute to the high turbidity. A Secchi Disk reacting of between 4 and 5 feet could be expected_ for a lake of acceptable tater clarity , whereas readings of between 11 and 12 feet are not uncom--.on for clear lakes . Under conditions of high turbidity- and the absence of mixing by the wind , the surface eaters warm throughout the summer . During periods of hot weather the surface waters may become sufficiently warm to cause an avoidance reaction in fish . The deepEr the fish moves to avoid the surface temperature , the less oxyoer_ is available . The summer reduction; in oxygen availability in the bottom layers of the lake is due to the combined impacts of reduced light penetration ; hence , reduced photosynthetic addition of oxy=gen , and continuous consumption of oxygen by organisms living in the deeper water and mud bottom. Such reduced oxygen levels in the bottom layers of the lake can cause massive fish kills in the late summer- months . 10 0 Unpublished data collected by Mr . Paul Chappel , biologist for CDFG, on the fish kill of September, 198.1 support this hypothesis . Test results Wshowed that the dissolved oxygen levels were far below levels hronically tolerated by most species . All available data support the statements of local residents that latesummer fish hills at Atascadero Lake are due to a lack of dissolved oxygen. Residents have frequently noticed fish gulping air at the surface just prior to late summer kills , and newspaper pictures clearly shot: carp and catfish floating on the surface . The fact that carp and catfish are involved in these fish kills underscores the poor water quality which must exist during these periods . Both species are well known to have extreme tolerance of lot: o-;y=,en conditions , ar_d will surface and gulp air under oxygen stress . Surface water tempez•atur•es during the late sum;ner months are well within the tolerance of these species , but the combined effects of lot: oxygen and high temperature are the most likely causes of the sporadic fish kills . It is ur.forturiate in the context of the lake testing and resultant diagnostic analyses , that the higher temperatures normally experienced during the summer moriths in Atascadero were not experienced in 19S`�; . Without actual data , conclusions as to cause of summer fish kills can only be speculative . Spring hills involve trout and bass and frequently- have occurred shortly after applications of copper sulfate for the control of a_• �a c ,y Thus , spring fish kills may be due to the combined effects of _ot: •oxygen, rapid temperature rise , and the primary- and secondar.% effec,.s of copper sulfate treatments . However, there is an additional factn_- t:hich may be related to the death of stc,eked trout . Ti_e riOrMal j•rocedure in transpor•tir. fish for stncltir_ F,rograms is to co:,l th_• water in the tank trucli to reduce activity and oxyger, consucptior, of tine fist: during transport . If the fish are released into the t•-aim waters of the lake t,:it*,,'Iout a period of "wary:-ursthe sucden shoo cf the warm surface waters of the lake could cause a lethal thermal shocli t,.-Ch t:;Yuld Bill mos • of the f sh in =t a fet: days . Ecc.=: _zsc t:1c surface waters of Atascadero Lake are so warm in comparisor_ wit-1 the transp_'rt temperature , great care must be tal•;en to slowly warl:, tl;e tank water and a loo- the fish to ad,Just to t:arr-.er water 1,efor•e- tl:_ : are released. There is no evidence that this has happened inti.0 P,:s t , but is a potential problem ir: iate spring . Thus , mo .t spring fish 1•.1l1s are pro1. -bly dine to factors other than lo;: dissol\-ed o:•.y-gen l e l e l s . BIOLOGICAL SURVEY Vegetation During the study- period, vegetation: along the shoreline of Atasca('•.%__ o Lake was exceed.inely sparse . Most of thr., trees are either lasiolepis ) or Cottonwood( Populus sp. ) and are located in-the islar.d area . Cat.tail (TLplza sp. ) and Bulrush ( Scirpus californicus ) are present in small clumps located mostly along the east shoreline . *Smartweed(Polygonum_ sp. ) is the most common shoreline plant and can l _ found along most of the shoreline . With the recent drop in water 1 1 C E� level , most of the shoreline plant communities have died back and no longer provide even minimal cover for birds or other animals . When the water level rises again, the shoreline plants will sprout from tubers in the ground and again provide cover for marsh birds of many types . • No evidence of a submerged plant community- was found in any area of the lake outside of the immediate region of the island. There are virtually no submerged plant species along the vast majority of the east and west shores . The cause of this absence is not totally clear, since other urban lakes in the county-, such as Laguna Lake( SLO County, CA) , support a large and diverse community of submergent and emergent plants . Local , long-term residents have reported that emergent plants , such as cattails and bulrushes , used to exist in great profusion along the shoreline. During low cater -periods these stands could dry and were set on fire to remove the dry leaves and prevent their entry into the lake when it refilled. The most recent scraping of the lake basin resulted in almost total eradication of the plants from the basin . Water lilies are said to have existed in the swimming area years ago (see Appendix F) . Generally , aquatic habitats tend to be frequented by migratory water fowl which disseminate the seeds of aquatic plants . Even the large reservoirs in the county have at least modest submerged plant communities , and their water levels may vary by as much as 50 feet in the span of a year. Lack of adequate sediments in many areas of Atascadero Lake may be partly responsible . However, the shoreline and lake bottom , from the island to the pavilion, consists of fine grained sediments and should support. a rich and diverse submerged plant community, although none exists . Fish • Atascadero Lake contains a variety of warm crater fishes . according to Mr . Paul Chappell of the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) , the lake contains Large-mouth bass , Bluegill , Redear Sunfish , White Crappie , Black Crappie , Channel Catfish , White Catfish , and Carp. Other species of warm water fish, introduced by the public , may also be present . In addition , the lalte is stocked by CDFG c;ith Rainbow Trout each year between October and May. Stocking takes place every- two weeks with a total of between 20 , 000 and 31 , 700 fish released each year . The lake is heavily fished during the stocking period but fishing press" e dissipates in May with the termination of trout stocking . In 1986 , 16 plantings tool: place at a total cost of S12 , 800 , which was paid by the CDFG ( see Appendix: E ) . Lack of state funds may restrict trout plantings in 1987 . Benthic Organisms Numerous dredge samples of bottom sediments were taken this past summer . Only three types of organisms were found : midge larvae (Chironomidae) , blackfly larvae (Simulidae) , and earth worms (Oligochaetes ) . Shells of the Asian clam (Corbicula) were. scattered along the lake shore, but no living specimens were collected. Although unlikely, this could mean that fishermen are using the clams for bait but are collecting them elsewhere . The Asian clam is very • common in all of our count- reservoirs and one would expect to find it 12 C67 in Atascadero Lake . Recent drastic changes in lake level may have eradicated the clam, or severely reduced the number of clams , and the •population just has not had sufficient time to recover . Larger clam species are known to have been collected from the lake in past rears , but no specimens were collected during the benthic survey. Again, long-term residents state that clams used to be found in great profusion throughout the lake basin. From descriptions of the small "Cherry Stone-like" clam was probably- the Asian clam, Corbicula manilensis , and the larger species which looked like a "pocket knife" , may have been the Unionid clam, Anodonta , which is also common in the Pacific drainage . Snails , dragonfly larvae , and Phantom midge larvae are routinely- collected in other lakes in the county, but none were collected during the course of this study-. The impoverished submerged plant community- is probably related to, and even possibly responsible for, the lacl: of typical benthic populations . Aquatic plants provide an important source of food and shelter for small fish , aquatic insect larvae and snails . Their leaves contribute dissolved oxygen to the surroun,,ing water and shade for lower strata in the lake . Birds Atascadero Lake attracts a large variety- of bird species . Migratory water fowl , marsh birds , shorebirds , even birds normally- found along the seashore will frequent the lake during the year. A list of wiid bird species associated with Atascadero Lake , including occasional and rare visitors is given in Table 5 . •In addition to wild bird species , Atascadero Lake is the year around home of many domestic water fowl . These birds generally collect :along the northeast shore during the day and migrate across the lal•;e and sleep on the shore in the swimming area of of the lake . In the ear"y morning hours approximately 20-30 geese will form a tight circle and begirt fora,ir1, up into the park area . These foraging trips are interesting from the standpoint of animal behavior , but they also resu'_ t in the deposition of an enornious number of goose droj F}ir:CS i., the park . In fact , the evening collection of domestic ducks and geese in the swim area has resulted in the er_tire area being covered with bird droppings . Unfortunately, this region of the pari: serves as tl.e children ' s pla;. area . The severe potential health hazard can not gc unnoticed by ever, the most casual observer . 0 13 Table 5 . Avian Fauna of Atascadero Lake Common Birds Occasional Birds Pied-billed Grebe Eared Grebe • Double-crested Cormorant Pintail Great Blue Heron Northern Shoveler Black-crowned Night Heron Common Morgans.er Canada Goose Lesser Yellowlegs Mallard Duck Long-billed Dowitcher Ruddy Duck Common Snipe American Coot Caspian Tern Killdeer Tree Swallow Ring-billed Gull Cliff Swallow Belted Kingfisher Black Phoebe Rare Birds Violet-green Swallow White Pelican Barn Swallow Greater White-fronted Goose Red-winged Blackbird Ross ' s Goose Ring-necked Duck Uncommon Birds Surf Scoter Western Grebe Cinnamon Teal Great Egret Osprey Green-backed Heron Wood Duck By far, the most common birds are the American Coots and. Mallard Ducks . Depending on the time of the year there may be several hundred of these birds in residence at the lake . Both of these species are migratory , but the lake supports large year-around populations of . each . Although far less in number , the cormorant is equally- important . These birds frequent the lake and if fishing is good, they remain ir: the area . If fishin- is poor they will move on to better fishing grounds . These birds are considered by most people to be marine birds , si.nc•e that is where most of us see them. However , cormorants are opportunistic "fishermen" and have been seen as far inland as the State of Kansas . These birds are excellent at catching fish in open water and can eat urge amounts of fish in relatively short periods . In addition to their voracious appetites and severe impact on planted trout populations , the most serious problems they create are related to their roosting habits . These birds tend to warm themselves and roost overnight in the highest branches of the scenic tall trees surrounding the lake , which also provide shade for visitors in the park . Over a brief period of time , the birds have stripped leaves and small branches from the limbs , thus providing an unobstructed access to the roosting area . Several of the trees along the lake shore have been severely damaged by• the. birds . The ground surrounding the trees , including picnic tables and benches , are literally covered by bird droppings and are unusable by parr, visitors . Thus , the cormorants have literally "taken over" some of the more desirable sections of the park by creating an unsightly and potentially- hazardous area under the trees . • 14 i The large populations of domestic ducks and geese , coots , and cormorants have negatively impacted esthetic , recreational , and ,biological values of both the lake and park . Numerous forms of "swimmers itch" are attributed to parasites of water fowl which mistakenly burrow into the skin of swimmers , only to die and cause a festering sore on the infected swimmer . The excrement from the domesticated water fowl inhabiting the dam' area of the lake is easily observed in the park and along walks and near the shore , but there are mans- more birds that remain in the cater and do not leave the lake . The fecal contribution of these animals is difficult to accurately access , but mai- be the basis for the high bacterial counts , excessive Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) values , and. high phosphorus concentrations in the lake bottom sediments of the swimming area. Actually , these high values were noted in all samples taker, along the west shoreline - from the swimming area to the pavilion boat dock . For example, sediment BOD in the swimming area %,as found to be 1300 mg/lig ( p. p.m. ) , while a sample taken directly across from the pavilion on the east shore , which is not a "roost- in area , had a BOD of 730 mg/kg , ( p.p.m. ) . While the swimming area reading was much greater than the latter reading, both are excessive . Organic phosphorus measurements at the same sample sites showed the swimmir. area and east shore "control" area had values of 1400 and 9 milligrams organic-PO4 per kilogram sediment , respectively . Inorganic phosphorus values showed the same trend, but were far less dramatic , being 430 and 81 , respectively- . Thus resident water fowl appear to make an enormously- significant fecal contribution to the cater and sediment of . Atascadero Lake( see Appendix C) . • Fecal contamination from resident and migratory- water fowl may explain the generally- high and erratic bacterial counts obtained by the County- Health Department over the past several years ( see Appendix D) . A review of those data shows little or no definite pattern in spatial or temporal distribution of such counts . Variable population sizes of migratory- birds coupled with temporary mass movements of the resident birds might explain why high bacterial counts are sometimes present in the south end of the lake and sometimes at the north end of the lake . Sewage contamination would not be as variable , and hence , is not suspected to be the cause of the fecal contamination , since fecal coliforms are fairly long lived in natural waters at 20-25 degrees Centigrade , and would tend to give consistent values from one sampling period to another . Examination of possible sewace contamination into Atascadero Lake frcm local septic systems is far beyond the scope and resources of this study. While it is theoretically plausible •that such contamination is , or has been possible , the fecal coliform counts strongly suggest that water fowl are mainly responsible for such contamination . Nevertheless it is recommended that all homes which lie upslope from the lake be converted from septic systems to conventional municipal sewage systems . The surrounding hillsides of Atascadero Lake appear to consist of stratified -shale , which would leach into downslope areas , including the lake , should the septic system fail . Local residents • claim to be knowledgeable of several such septic system failures ( see Appendix G) . 15 X70 In any case , it can be seen from the fecal coliform data (counts/100 ml ) that the vast majority- of readings ( 38 of 46 total readings ) exceed the allowable levels for Recreation I designated lakes (eater contact recreation) and many, ( 17 of 46 readings) , exceed the standards • for Recreation 2 designated lakes(non-contact recreation) by the Basin Plan of Central Coast Basin 3 , State of California Water Quality- Control Board( see Appendix C ) . Clearly, water quality of Atascadero Lake must be greatly improved if it is to be . restored as a safe and enjoyable recreational lake . Copper Sulfate Control of Algal Populations The use of copper sulfate (CuSO4 ) to control the growth of algae and aquatic plants has been shown to be the most cost effective method of control yet developed. When used properly- , the treatment results in effective control , requires minimal equipment and is relatively inexpensive . Copper sulfate has been the most widely used means of algae control for more the 70 years . Softwater lakes in the east and northwest require less copper sulfate for adequate control than the hardwater lakes in the southwest . Where necessary, small amounts of chelating agents are mixed with the copper sulfate to prevent rabid precipitation of the toxic copper ion . Chelating agents bind copper ion and release it slowl% into the water. Thus , rather than having the copper ion quickly removed from the water by precipitation, the capper complex slowly releases copper ion over a period of hours . Copper ion is toxic to virtually all aquatic organisms , hence even with the utmost care , fish kills occur . Generally , such kills occur within the first 24 hours after spraying and are localized to treated ureas of the lake . Fish weakened b;: disease or age , very young fish , and those • fish which were directly exposed to high concentrations of copper ion and have sustained extensive gill tissue damage , are killed . In a small lake like Atascadero , weed control is generally conducted by personnel having minimal formal training and without following an analytical procedure for determining when to spray or how much to spray . The decision to spray is frequently- based on a visual check of water color and turbidity. If the lake water seems particularly green , or emergent plants are beginning to extend above the •water surface , the lake is deemed to require a "control treatment" . Often spraying takes place after a few days of warm/hot weather. If an algal bloom is in progress and there are large numbers of organisms in the water column , spraying can result in a massive number of dead or dying algal cells . These cells sink to lower strata in the lake and are quickly- decomposed by aerobic bacteria . The bacterial population flourishes , and can double every 4-8 hours under proper conditions . If everything goes as "planned" the algae are simply killed by copper sulfate, they sink to the bottom of the lake , and are decomposed at or near the mud surface . A few fish may be killed in the area that was sprayed, but that is only a minor nuisance. The precipitated copper settles out on the bottom of the lake as copper hydroxide. At pH ' s above 7 . 0 , the hydroxide is fairly stable and it is not affected by oxygen depletion of the sediments . Thus , the precipitated copper does not re-enter the water column during summer stratification. Winter runoff brings in clay- particles which settle out over the bottom of • 16 E 71 the lake, and prevent a buildup of copper-containing chemicals at the _ mud- water interface . In most years , the spraying program controls the V rowtli of algae , at least until August , and does not result in a ignificant fish kill . .Occasionally , nothing goes as planned in the spraying program and everything that can go wrong happens at the .same time. This event is marked by the simultaneous death of hundreds of fish throughout the lake . Fish die in areas which were not sprayed, and fish of all sizes and types float to the surface. Newspaper accounts have listed trout and bass as the most common fishes killed in the spring , with carp and catfish dominating the late summer kills ( see Appendix; G ) .Althouh large scale fish kills have occurred on several occasions over the past six years , no evidence could be found that any governmental agency has adequately- investigated even one of the kills to determine the actual cause ( s ) . A likely spring scenario for a fish kill includes a rapid rise ir. mean daily temperature, an established algal bloom, copper sulfate treatment , little or no wind for about 24 hours , and thE•n mocerate winds sufficient to cause mixing of the lake . These conditions haA-e been responsible for fish kills throughout the country. If trout are planted before or during the wind rr.ixing period, all of the trout could be killed within 24 hours . The entire spring event is initially set in motion by the sudden rise in daytime temperature coupled with light winds . The surface water of the lake warms and light winds mix this warm. water with the cooler bottom water . The shallop: basin of Atascadero Lake holds only a small volume of water and can thus be warmed rather quickly . The warm water , dissolved nutrients, and 0abund,ant lightrovide optimal conditions for algae . One or more P P g species bein to rapidly in number . If left un p �grow p g unchecked , the algl.a populations i.ill continue to grow. Population growth causes depletion of required dissolved nutrients , a buildup of metabolic -astes , and attention of available light due to shading . Zooplankton species which feed on suspended algal cells have much longer life cycles and their population growth is thus much slower than the dominant a l.gal species . However , zooplankton species have extraordinary- reproductive capacities and within a short period. will have an intrinsic population growth rate parallel to that of the algal species . The combined effect of seasonal progression , nutrient depletion, metabolic waste buildup, shading , and zooplankton grazing ( predation ) results in the reduction in the gro%:th rate of the algal population . Thus , if left alone , - the lake will approach a balance between bacterial , algal , and zooplankton populations - a balance which continuously changes due to seasonal progression. . If the lake is sprayed while the algal population is small and just beoinnin to enter the rapid growth phase , individual cells are extremely susceptible to the toxic effects of copper ion. Since the population is not large , the decomposition of the dead cells does not cause severe oxygen. depletion. If the population of green algae is allowed'•. to increase significantly in size before spraying takes place , a large number of cells will be killed within a short time frame . Bacterial populations in the lake rapidly grog: as a result of the large amounts Oof nutrients leaking from dead and dying algal cells . The rapid increase in aerobic bacteria increases the overall demand for oxygen, 17 but the algal cells which previously produced oxygen are dying from copper poisoning . The result is a marked depletion in dissolved oxygen . If the level becomes sufficiently- depleted, then even the • aerobic bacteria will begin to die. If the dissolved oxygen level continues to drop, the tolerance limits for fish may be reached, resulting in a fish kill . Rainbow trout and large mouth bass are the least tolerant of oxygen depletion of the fish species in the lake . Thus , the spring hills result in the death of these two species . In May 1986 , trout were planted within a few days of a copper treatment . The result was a fish kill of large proportions ( see Appendix G) . The entire issue might have been avoided if the temperature and oxygen profiles had been measured the day- before the plant . Warm crater temperatures and low oxygen concentration in the lower reaches of the lake should cause the cancellation of trout planting. Likewise , if county employees had known the planting schedule they may have opted to not spray, rather than risk a significant fish kill . Knowledge of the system , and communication between interested parties , might have avoided the entire problem. Water temperatures during the summer generally- become too warm for green algae and this , coupled with the high grazing rates of the -lar.ee zooplankton population , act to hold down population growth of green algae in late spring and early summer . By mid-to late summer there are only small populations green algae left in the lake and this causes a decline in the number of zooplankton . The warm water, high light intensity, and lack of grazing by zooplankton provide blue-green algae with a competitive edge . Also , many blue-green algae are elongate and difficult for most zooplankton to eat . Thus , the blue-green algae begin to quickly- increase in number . Unfortunately, many- blue-green • algae have gas vacuoles which cause them to float to the surface during zero wind periods . Typically in August the blue-green algae population becomes sufficiently large that the cells create ar, oily scum on the surface of the lake in the morning . These cells also produce a musty odor which is easily recognized. The murky appearance of the lake , the musty odor and oily scum result in numerous resident complaints . 'newspaper articles have appeared , discussing the terrible conditions , and the County Health Department has issued statements expressing concern , although underscoring the absence of any health hazard( see Appendix A ) . Every few . ears , the lame suffers a fist, kill in August in which mature carp and catfish die in large numbers ark float to the k r•face . These species are among the hardiest of fishes when it comes to temperature and oxygen stress , and when they die the lake is in extremely poor condition . Like the spring fish hills , there is no evidence that any governmental agency has ever adequately studied the lake to determine the actual cause ( s ) of the problem. It is most likely- that temperature and oxygen stress are the principal causes . However- , the concentrations of heavy metals in the sediment are sufficient that benthic release of heavy metals during the late summer stagnation may be an additional factor in the deaths of these fish , but this remains to be demonstrated.Unfortunately, ( from the viewpoint of this study ) , this was an extremely mild summer and no late summer fish kill occurred , nor was any evidence gathered tha, would clearly demonstrate that oxygen depletion during August and September causes fish kills . • 1E Q7 Indeed, we waited for the summer weather to heat up and delayed _ sampling as long as possible , in order to collect o%ygen stratification data during a period of hot , September weather . But the •"hot" weather did not occur in 1986 . It is important to note that fish hills at Atascadero Lake are not coincident with hills in any of the larger reservoirs in the county , even though both Santa Margarita and Lopez Lakes routinely use copper sulfate spraying for algae control . This apparentconflict is surely due to differences in water volume , temperature , and mean depth . These reservoirs do not heat as quickly as Atascadero Lake simply because of the volume of water and the thermal inertia it provides . During the summer months these reservoirs are almost totally devoid of oxygen. belov. 30 feet , and they do have populations of blue-green algae . However there is relatively cool , oxygenated water just a few feet from the surface of the lake and thus there is a place for the fish to congregate which is within their range of tolerance . In Atascadero Lake the de:epest layers of water warm to 24 degrees Centigrade or more , and have little or no dissolved osycen . Since fish tend to prefer low lid:ht intensities , they attempt to go to the lower strata , but log- oxygen availability forces therm: up to warmer surface 1 . ers . The warmer water increases their metabolic rate , forcing then to consurne o:,:ygen at a faster rate . The result is that ;:here is no place to hide from the sun , or find cooler water , or have sufficient dissolved oxy—een to sustain life . Thus , a late summer fish 1•:_ 11 can occur . It does not h.:pper, every summer , but it does happen when. weather con('itiens are Just rirlm: to create a stagnant , warm. I • Principal invironmert.a; Problems The major environmental problems at Atascadero Lake include o_:y en dE=fl etior. at carious times during the yel:r , a large resident population of domestic tater fow" , and a virtual absence of submer e-.3 ai,d emergent plant communities . In terms of human factors , the greatest recent problem: has been c�ommunit% neglEc•t . Atascadero Lake has slowly undergone a drastic degeneration over the last couple of decades . Reflection upon the present state , comparison, to hoc: it appeared between 1913 and the 1950 ' s , would make this evident . 19 X74 Possible Mitigation Measures : _ Maintaining Dissolved Oxygen Levels • Preventing oxygen depletion will require establishing procedures and equipment to monitor dissolved oxygen concentration throughout the year and implementing a method to maintain the dissolved oxygen levels during periods of high biological consumption. Oxygen electrodes are readily available from a host of vendors and require minimal training and cost for their proper use . Heather and dissolved oxygen levels should be measured at least weekly and records should be maintained by park personnel . A method of aeration should be implemented in order to raise dissolved oxygen levels during periods of high utilization . Ozone treatments have been successfully utilized in various parts of the country to overcome oxygen depletion problems . Ozonation is being used as a disinfectant and/or oxidant in projects of as wide a scope as treatment of Lake Superior , numerous other lakes of various sizes and conditions , sewage treatment plants , and decorative water features : as well as swimmin pools and spas (where it supplements or completely- replaces 'chlorination) . After the disinfectant/oxidation process , ozone(03 ) disassociates into oxygen(02 ) , which then goes into solution in the water .Description of the activated oxygen( ozone ) system and process , as well as reports of two lakes in which ozone treatment greatly- improved water quality, is included in Appendix I . Preliminary cost. estimates for a system for Atascadero Lake are : 530 , 000 if the bottom sediment is scraped out and removed from the basin. , and 550 , 000 if the bottom sediment is not removed . These cost figures include system design and equipment . The electrical power • requirements would be approximately 5 to 10 horsepower , ( 3 . 73 to 7 . 46 kw) . The electricity costs would depend on the frequency of usage . If used continuously throughout the year(which could very well be the recommendation) , annual electricity costs would be approximately- S2600 to $5200 . It is possible that development of a submerged plant community- could help maintain dissolved oxygen levels . Photographs of the lane from the 20 ' s and 30 ' s clearly show well developed submerged and emergent plant communities . These plants were present at one time and can probably- be re-introduced at minimal cost . Preliminary, small scale plantings should be conducted to determine if current soil chemistry will support the plants . It is possible that the addition of copper sulfate over the years has resulted in sufficient contamination of the sediments to prevent plant growth . Plants from other aquatic habitats might be transplanted in order to establish populations in Atascadero Lake . The cost of obtaining the plants from other lakes would be minimal and might even make an excellent community work project . Development of aquatic plant communities would have the additional benefit of providing shelter and food for aquatic insects . This would broaden the food base for fishes in the lake, provide cover for small fish , and perhaps even provide some cover from cormorant predation. • 20 0175 A particular area in which to establish a water plant community would be the shallow water area surrounding the island. Establishing aquatic plants in the island region would create a marsh-like area Owhich would help trap nutrients before they enter the main body of the lake .- Creation of a marsh in that area would be aided b;; the construction of a berm which would physically separate the marsh and lake . Valved culverts in the berm could be used to regulate floc; between the marsh and lake. Construction of the berm and culverts is estimated to cost about $15 , 000 . Reducing Nutrient Levels and Improving Water Quality Developing a marsh , containing submergent and emergent plants , would reduce nutrient and silt entry into the lake . Nutrients would become incorporated into the biomass of the marsh . As the marsh matured, a management program would have to be developed in order to maintain the marsh as a viable community.The cost of maintenance would depend on the type of management program, but would be minimal and probably not involve annual costs , but rather eNpenditures at 3-5 year intervals . The most important step in increasing overall water quality would be in the removal of domestic waterfowl . An ordinance should be passed and strictly enforced, making it illegal for anyone to "dump" their unwanted ducks and geese at the lake . These birds clearly have a significant negative impact on both the park and lake . The method of removal is not. important . These birds are not protected by Federal laws pertaining to migrators- water focal . Removal of the domestic ducksz, and geese will result in immediate and long term improvements in water •quality and in health standards for the park itself . `laintenance of the current domestic water fowl population. will only perpetuate , if not increase , the current level of fecal contamination of the 'alke and surrounding park , which is currently a public health hazard . All. wild fowl, such as cormorants , coots , mallard ducks , etc . , wi,ic}., migrate (or are capable of migrating ) across state lines are protected by federal laws which are enforced by the United States Department of Agriculture/Animal. Damage Control . Such birds can be removed by trapping or killed under federal permit , if it can be shown to department officials that the birds represent a health hazard. Cormorants can certainly be classified as presenting a serious health hazard , however, it is unlikely that killing the current population, will result in elimination of the population. Other birds will just come in the unoccupied area . Other water focal , such as migratory mallards are not really a problem, as they stay only a brief period of time .Coots may be fairly well controlled by forced removal of the animals, but no data could be found that would allow us to estimate how long it would take for the population to return to current day levels . No federal permit is required to harass or frighten migratory foal away from the lake , as this is not a violation of the federal treaty . Many methods could be attempted, such as : kites , silouettes , or stuffed likenesses of "enemy" birds of prey ; shot gun shell crackers , •bombs , whistlers , and zon guns ; general signal alarms ; casette tape= of distress signals of specific bird species which are a nuisance ; and 21 - 76 bird repellent gels . Each of these methods ' effectiveness depends upon such factors as the bird species ' habits and dispositions , past habits and comfort of the individual birds with their environment , the environment itself, time of year, number of and persistence of the • people involved in harassing the birds . Unfortunately, attempts such as. these often result in limited, if any, success ; or short-lived success . Birds which are accustomed to the lake area may never leave , as they fly back and forth across the lake, away from the temporary nuisance . They may leave for awhile , and then return a few minutes , hours , or days later. The effectiveness of these methods can only be effectively measured by the experience of attempting them. It must also be borne in mind that many of these measures can be very irritating to local residents of the lake area, and the objections of the community- may outweigh the goals of frightening away flocks of birds . Further information on killing , trapping , and frightening fowl , including prices to pursue such procedures, are included in Appendix L. Eliminating the domestic water fowl is something that can be done , is not governed by federal or state regulations , and will be effective . Whatever steps are necessary- to bring about a rapid removal of domestic water fowl should be implemented immediately. Ozonation/aeration methods would also enhance water quality by preventing the geochemical release of nutrients during periods of stagnation . Hydrogen sulfide production would be all but eliminated as a result of maintaining oxygen levels during the warm summer months . Establishing a submerged plant community throughout the lake would result in nutrients being taken up by these plants and thus reducing • their availability to algae . At least initially, competition for nutrients could limit algal growth and reduce the need for artificial control measures . To a much lesser extent , emergent vegetation outside a marsh area would also compete for nutrients and provide marsh birds with suitable habitat . Their submerged stems and tubers would provide cover for small fish , frogs , and aquatic insects , thereby ti.e expanding and enhancing the community structure of Atascadero Lake . Expanding the species diversity ir. the lake will result in a major improvement of the stability of the ecosystem. Thus , *the lake will loos: better, it will smell better , fish caugizt in the lake will taste better , a greater diversity of gild birds will inhabit the shoreline , and animals eliminated from the lake due to poor water qualitly trill once again return . Improvement of Human Factors Improving water quality could increase the .use of the lake and park area by residents . In view of the number of people who currently gall. or jog around the lake during the early morning and late afternoon, any increase in their number would further increase the dangerous mixture of people and cars on the east side of the lake.. The vast majority of drivers and passengers traveling the road are._ looh,irig for a place to park to go fishing , or to have lunch . Frequently drivers can be seen driving off the road because they were paying too much attention to the lake and too little attention to driving . Distracted • drivers make walking or jogging along the edge of the road a ding?nous 22 ,. situation . Only the exceptionally lot, use of the road by automobile traffic has averted a serious accident . Few cars can be observed to use the roadway- simply to get to the other end of the lake , or to Oeach their homes . Thus , closure of the middle half of the road to through traffic would riot have a serious impact on commuters , but would maintain access by home owners on- the road. If the road was closed, the park could be extended on the east shore and provide a quiet area, devoid of automobiles , in which 'people could fish , jog , or walk without having to constantly look out for distracted drivers . Park development on the east side of the lake need not involve grass areas or picnic tables , but rather, a physical fitness course could be developed, and the road could be reduced to a bike path . Development of shoreline plant communities would provide ample opportunity- for bird watchers and nature photographers . Fishing could be enjoyed without the fumes and sounds of cars just a few feet away. The cost of closure of the road on the east side of the lake , development of alternate route( s ) as required for residential access , and development of the eastside part: area is dependent upon the. scope of the development desired. Scraping and Removal of Lake Bottom Sediments Test results of the lake bottom sediments reveal that this mud contains very high concentrations of nitrogen, phosphate , biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) , and significant amounts of other nutrients . This Is esj)eoially- true in the northern area of the lake , where most :.)f the fowl tend to congregate . The bottom sediment , upor, a cursory- examination , appears to be high in clay content , and this muck- Ostrongly- clings to an individual or object which comes in contact with it , "sucl.ing" them in , as the adhesion is very strong . Thus , the bottom mud al---pears to be a main cause of the turbidity of the lane , wi t.?1 an excessive amount of nutrients ane. organic matter , w:ic•h ca-: rob the laLe water of necessary oxygen. This mud imparts a foul , objectionable odor of hydrogen sulfide as well , as mentionec ea.•lier . A possible course of action , then, would be to scrape and remove these lake bottom sediments . The City of Atascader•o has a site which coul�' use much , if not all , of the fill which would come from the lake - for the construction of future softball fields to fill abandonec? seL:arfe plant. lagoon ( s ) off Traffic Way ; a distance of two to three miles from: the Lake . Such fill t:ould be acceptable if the bottom sedimen-: dried out. appreciably . The lake bottom sedi:-,ients vary in depth from 0 . 5 feet (mostly ir. the more shallow regions ) to 2 . 5 feet ( in the deeper areas of the lake ) . These sediment depths are very" shallow in comparison with most lah.e5 . The total volume of the sediments is an estimated 32 , 000 cubic yards ( see lake topographical map, Appendix B ) . Because the sediment depths are comparatively- very- shallow, o--onat.ic-n treatment of the lake, coupled with the removal of many birds from the lake , could probably neutralize the effects of the nutrierit-rico sediments by oxidation/disinfection . The ozonation system, without the • the removal of the sediments , would cost approximately $50 , 000 ; as compared to approximately $30 , 000 if sediment removal did occur . 23 Such scraping and removal of lake bottom sediments would involve the complete drainage of water from the lake , and drying out of the sediments such that earth-moving equipment could operate therein. As • stated earlier, a manually-operated valve controls an outlet in the lake at the northern shore (dam) , which can drain the lake water down to a level which is approximately 6 . 3 feet below the top of the spillway ( i . e . , such that the water surface elevation drops to El . 903 . 7 ) . The lowest area of the lake bottom is at Elevation 8971 , ( see topographical map in Appendix B) , which leaves a water depth of approximately 6 . 7 feet in the deepest parts even after the lake is drained by gravity flow. The estimated volume of water which would require pumping out of the lake basin is approximately- 30 , 000 , 000 gallons (or 4 , 011 , 000 cubic feet = 92 . 1 acre-feet) . The pumping-out process would take a considerable amount of time and expense , and would obviously- render the lake useless for several months . Fillin, the lake completely to a desirable depth and volume once the work is completed would require a year of considerable rainfall , as the only- significant means of water inflow into the lake basin is by runoff from the watershed, and from Atascadero Creek . No assurance can be given that this would occur. The sediment is composed largely, ( if not mostly) of clays , and therefore , the drying-out process of the sediments , once all standing water has been pumped out, could take several months ( i .e . , from late spring to early autumn) . The occurrence of rainfall at an inopportune time (as occasional summer rains are not unheard o.f ) , could leave the bottom sediments excessively- moist once again , and this entire operation may fail for that year , as equipment could not operate , getting stuck in the moist , adhesive clays . Such immobilization of • equipment has occurred in the past in the drained-out bottom of Atascadero Lake (when used for fill for the island and baseball diamond of the park ) and it can take several weeks before sufficiently dry and h-ard . Thin , there is no assurance that once such a costly procedure is initiated, that it will be successful . A comprehensive report of the bottom sediment soils and surrounding basin geology by a qualified soils/geological engineer is required to fully- understand the site conditions before such water removal and. excavation work could be bid by, awarded to, and initiated by an excavation contractor. Such a soils report would include a soils analysis of t,14- sediments ; estimation of the time and conditions of , and recommendations for , the soils drying-out process ; and a . geological investigation of the consequences of scraping out of the bottom sediments ( i . e . , if sediment removal would would unseal the lake , causing bottom or lateral seepage from the lake by exposing permeable geologic formation in the lake basin ) . It may be possible that a soils report would recommend against the scraping and remora' of the lake bottom soils . A cost estimate of a soils report is approximately- $3500 . 00 ( see Appendix E.) . In the absence of a soils report , many excavation contractors submitted "ball park" estimates for the construction mentioned, with the scope of work to include de-watering of the lake , scraping of the lake bottom sediments , export and disposal of the sediment , and grading/shaping of the shoreline . Because the site conditions are not . 24 U j fully known and understood ( largely- because of the absence of a soils _ report at this time ) construction estimates varied widely , with a range of $85 , 000 to $400 , 000 ( see Appendix Ii) . *Mechanical Filtration of Lake tater It may be advisable to filter the lake water, in two areas of the lake by means of a trickle-flow gravel bed biofilter, requiring mechanical pumping of the water by the use pump( s ) . It would not be feasible or necessary- to filter the entire lake. ?natural water bodies are obviously not filtered as such , with many- lakes having excellent water quality; as long as adequate oxygen levels are maintained, which an ozonation system would provide for Atascadero Lake . It would also be economically unfeasible to filter the entire lake , with enormous , expensive pumps required, which would result in ridiculously- excessive electricity power costs . The swimmir:.e are,:, which would be on the western shoreline , at the northern end of the lake , is currently a lake water area with the worst fecal contamination from the bird population, and its lake bottom sediment currently- is highest in organic matter and nutrient content . A trickle-flow gravel bed biofilter maintains a population of aerobic bacteria. which basically- break down such organics and objectionable nutrients into simpler compounds , thus "cleaning" the water. Biofilters are utilized in such various applications as sewage treatment plants , koi ponds , and aquariums . By circulating and filterin.& the water of the reclaimed swimming area , the water quality- could be sufficiently improved in this area to warrant the 10installation of such a system. The water quality of the swimming area should be of the highest excellence possible , for obvious health reasons . The overall lake water quality- should be vastly improved by- adherence to the other measures recommended in this report of the entire lake ( e . g . , ozonation treatment , removal of much of the fowl population , introduction of water plants , etc . ) but again , it woule be desirable if the swimmi'rig area could be specially- and economically treated. The estimated cost for the equipment and installation of the biofilter would be approximately $40 , 000 . If the biofilter were to be operated for 4 full months ( i . e . , the swimming season ) , continuously (which may not be necessa� ) , the electricity costs would be approximately 52600 per year. Backflushing of the gravel bed may be a challenging design problem:, but this could probably be adequately solved in the engineering/design phase of this project . A biofilter may also be desirable in the proposed-planted southern marsh area of the lake, isolated by the berm discussed earlier . This area is susceptible to fecal contamination from runoff water from the cattle pasture to the south of the lake , and in these times , filtration may be desirable . The suggested planting of emergent and submergent water plants may sufficient, however, to alleviate this problem. It is our recommendation that a biofilter system not be initially installed in this area ; and that surveillance be made of the • 25 030 area, with consideration made as to the desirability and/or necessity of a biofilter system in the future . This biofilter system installation and operation costs would be approximately comparable to the system in the swimming area. • Sewerage of the Surrounding Residential Community Test data of the lake crater and lake bottom sediments strongly indicate that the fecal contamination found in the lake water is due (at least mainly) to the focal inhabiting the area , rather than due to human fecal matter, which would originate from failed sept-ic systems from residences in the area . Removal of many of these birds , installation of ozonation/aeration system( s ) , planting of emergent and submergent aquatic plants , and installation of biofiltration system( s ) should alleviate this problem. Local residents have reported knowledge of several failed septic syster.;s in the area , however , and the evidence is very stronj that the homes which are upslope frog. the lake lie upon a geologic formation of stratified shale . A soils/geological study by a qualified soils engineer/geolo,ist could be undertaken to confirm this suspicion. . Suc'.: a formation mai- be � ermeable to liquids , and if such failure ( s ) of P q septic system( s ) occur , as reported by several residents , it is entirely plausible that the sewage effluent could permeate laterally and vertically , lealting into the lake . Currently , construction of conventional , municipal sewerage limes is taking place for mart' homes which are west of the lal-.e , with those septic s,-stems being replaced and abandoned. Construction mai- be completed by the time of the issuance of this report . There are • several other homes , however , which are generally further upslope ane farther ai,ay from the lake ( farther west ) which are still not beinZ so severed, but will remain utilizing septic systems . Since these properties still lie upslope from the lake , it remains plausible that these septic systems could stili fail and the effluent could floc: downslope into the lake through the stratified shale formation. . Again , a geologic study could confirm as to whether this is a possibility or not . There are a couple of procedures which could be performed which cculc. test individual septic systems as possible sources of contamination into the lake . These procedures are expensive and very time-consuming , however, and are beyond the resources available for this report . Because of the cost and difficulty involved, there are no records available of any local agency having conducted these test in regards to the lake . It is our recommendation that all homes which are upslope of Atascadero Lake be re-routed to conventional , municipal sewerage hook- ups , with the septic systems filled and abandoned. approximate costs of a sewerage lateral installation and hook-up are included in Appendix M. The Public Works Department of the Cita- of Atascadero , however , would be a better source for accurate cost figures than this report . • 26 0 31 Water Wells and Water Sources Currently, the only main sources for water inflow into Atascadero Lake 0 are water runoff from the surrounding watershed, ( the majority of which. enters the lake from a creek at the southern extremity of the lake) ; and from Atascadero Creek . These water sources feed the lake only for the normally brief periods of the year when rainfall occurs . There also appears to be a few minor springs in the lake, but these probably function the greatest during rainy periods of the year as well . There are no records which could be found of adequate water wells available which could feed Atascadero Lake during the remainder of the year, when the lake level subsides . There currently is a water well located north of the lake (across Highway 41 ) which supplies a wading pool , but the capacity of the well pump is not sufficient for the needs of the lake . The underground aquifer capacity of this Atascadero Creek area may be sufficient for the supply needs of the lake , but according to local , experienced well drillers , it is highly- improbable . To their knowledge , no adequate aquifers exist at all in the area . Thus , a search for such an underground water supply- would probably be futile , although a limited investigation may be warranted. If a satisfactory aquifer could be found, the approximate cost of drilling, installation , and completion of a well hole would be S40 , 000 . Annual pumping electrical power costs would be approximately- $1800 . Currently , the water supply- inlet from Atascadero Creel: into the lake • is less that: 100 feet awa;; from the overflow spillway, at the northwestern sector of the lake . During rainy seasons only, this"fresh" water from the creel: enters the lake , and if the lake level is to the top of the spillway , ( which often is the case during rainy periods - wheri the creel: flows ) , this influent water tends to floe: toward, and over , the spillway, into the drainage channel , and bac:: into Atascadero Creek , farther downstream in the creek . This short- circuiting type of floe pattern tends to retain the existing water of the lake , while the desired incoming "fresh" water exits almost as quickly as it enters the lake . Thus , there is no fresh water turnover of the lake , a feature which is necessary in most lakes to maintain high water quality . The short-circuiting effect further aggravates the cornd� tion of .' . ascadero Lake as an evaporative basin/sump, which obviously lead to poor water quality. The existing water inlet is a 12-inch- diameter cast iron pipe , which could be extended farther south in the lake bottom , toward the midd_ e of the lake . This extension of 12-inch pipe could consist of less- expensive sewer/drain pipe , and would require approximately 1500 feet of this pipe . Construction costs , including materials , equipment , and labor, would be approximately- S25 , 000 . It is our recommendation that this installation be made . 27 0312 Shoreline Grading and Miscellaneous Clean-tip To further protect against the possibility of drowning due to sudden, unexpected lake bottom drop-offs along the shoreline and beyond, the side slopes should be a maximum of 5 horizontal : 1 vertical . This grading suggestion is fairly standard for safety purposes in recreational water bodies . Rough cost estimates for such work range from 53000 to $10 , 000 . It is our recommendation that this grading be done for the entire lake shoreline . An engineered grading plan would. be required. There currently exists a wading pool , and a concrete slab to the south of the pool , along the western shoreline near the old swimming area . With the renovation of Atascadero Lake, the pool would no longer be necessary , and the concrete slab, which is surrounded by a chain link fence , is an eyesore which appears to serve no useful purpose . These should be removed, to aid in the restoration of the beauty of the lake and park . There are currently also large chunks of concrete , boulders , and assorted junk in the lake , in the vicinity of the wading pool , pier , and old swimming area . This unwanted material is a vera- sericus safety hazard , and should also be removed . The estimated cost for demolition and removal of the pool and slab, and removal of asscrLed debris would be approximately- $10, 000 , and could easily be performed by the excavation contractor at the same time as the shoreline is graded. Planting of Additional Warm-Water Fish Species Traditionally- , trout have been planted in Atascadero Lake during the generally cooler periods of the year of January through May , and October through December ( see Appendix E) , as trout are not particularly tolerant to warm water . Atascadero Lake is a shallot. lake basin , so the water can become quite warm in a relatively short period of time , during hot weather periods . As discussed earlier , this presents a problem when fish seek the deeper, cooler regions of the lake , where dissolved oxygen levels may be excessively low. It would be desirable to stock fish throughout the year for the area fishermer:,- and not just in the late fall through spring. Suggested game fish fc.r• planting would include catfish , bass , bluegill , crappie , etc . These fish could be stocked in addition to , or in lieu of , stocking trout ; depending upon, budgetary requirements . • 28 i33 SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES Descriptions - Approximate , Estimated Costs - Recommendations and Comments (/Installation of Ozonation/aeration System( s ) $30 , 000 if lake bottom sediments are removed. $2600 annual electricity, if operated continuously throughout the year . $50 , 000 if lake bottom sediments are not removed. $5200 annual electricity, if operated continuously throughout the year . Highly recommended. The larger , more expensive system( s ) is probably required, as removal of lake bottom sediments is not recommended . V Monitoring of Water O_ygen Levels Before Planting of Fish S2000 initial equipment costs . 5500 annually Highly recommended. ia ' P -marc =t_ = r:�,,_ requi_r.e_s._ verb' little training-of- personnel . ,/Planting of Submergent and Emergent Aquatic Plants 0 - $5000 , depending upon recruitment of volunteers . Highly recommender'... Some doubt exists as to the ability of some plants to survive , as submergent plants are not currently- observed in the lake . Creation of an Isolated Marsh Area - South End 515 , 000 with berm S5000 without berm Recommended. The berm is suggested to curtail the spread of certain aquatic plants . Removal of Fowl 0 - S3000 , depending upon recruitment of volunteers . Highly- recommended . The fowl are the major source of fecal bacteria contamination, as well as various other nutrients . Harassment and Frightening Away of Wild Fowl Variable - dependent upon the method utilized 4ot—h"ighly=recommended-:- Soma--methods mai" t;orh , but most will not . `Zany are excessively expensive and/or labor-intensive . Many are more of a nuisance to the local residents than to the fowl . • 29 - 84 SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES (continued) Scraping and Removal of Lake Bottom Sediments Range : $85 , 000 -$400 ,000 Net recommended. The wide of-_.c.o.st__estimates given is-due to the lack -of -pertinent -soils/geologic / information. Soils Report of .Lake Bottom Sediments $3500 Recommended, even if scraping is not chosen as a course of action. ✓Mechanical Biofiltration of Lake Water Swimming Area S40 , 000 installation $2000 annual electricity-, if operated continuously for 4 full months (possibly not necessary) . Recommended . Southern Area of the Lake Same approximate costs as for the shimming area . Not recommended at this time - "wait and see" . Sewerage of All Area Residences Upslope of the Lake S-ee Appendix M for approximate costs. More accurate figures can probably- be obtained from the Public Wcrks Department , Cite of Atascadero. Recommended , alon-g with a soils/geological report for • the. area . ✓Construction of a 1,:4ter Well to Supplement tr:e Lake Water Suppl;- 540 , 000 installation . $1800 annual electricity- - variable, dependent upon annual weather . Recommended, although an adequate underground aquifer probabl}- does not exist . Limited investigation of local aquifers is warranted. -/ Extension of Water Supple Line Discharge 525 , 000 Recommended - extension of 12-inch diameter water supply- line ( from Atascadero Creek ) discharge to the middle of the lake . Shoreline Grading to a 5 .Horizontal : 1 Vertical Slope $10,000 Highly- recommended, for safety purposes . Removal of Pool and Concrete Slab, and Lake Debris $10 , 000 Highly- recommended, for safety- and esthetic purposes . • 30 ,nom 0 rj EXHIBIT B Atascadero Lake WaterQ y Program ualit Pro Action Plan ISSUE Atascadero Lake is a valuable asset to the community and the environment. Intermittent water source, poor water circulation, low water depth, waterfowl and other factors effect the Lake's water quality. Mitigation measures to improve water quality are presented in the Feasibility Study for the Improvement of Atascadero Lake,March 1987. OBJECTIVES To improve Atascadero Lake water quality. The Feasibility Study will be used as a basis for the Program. Projects from the Study will be selected with help from Cal Poly_and other professionals. The City has provided annual funding for the program. PLAN Improve Lake fill line Responsible Staff. Public Work Maintenance and Wastewater Date: October 2001 • Cost: $10,000.00 to $20,000.00, depending on repairs A significant source of water for the Lake is from Atascadero Creek. The gravity fill-line from the Creek to the Lake is over a mile long. The line appears to have leaks. The Lake could have a larger source of water longer into the summer if the leaks were repaired. To identify the leaks the line will be smoke tested. From the test results repairs will be made. Domestic Waterfowl relocation Responsible Staff. Public Work Date: spring 2001 Cost: Minimal The Study identified waterfowl as one of the causes of the poor water quality. This project would move domestic waterfowl off the Lake and to other local lakes or ponds. Investigate new water well Responsible Person: Mark Markwort Date: June 2001 Cost: $5,000.00 to $10,000.00 An adjacent landowner has given the City the opportunity to drill a well on their property. The property will be checked for water supply and an estimate will be produced to construct, operate and maintain the well. • IIS C!3'7 I� Planting of submergent and emergent aquatic plants • Responsible staff. Public Works Date: summer 2002 Cost: $10,000.00 Produce a plan for the planting at the south end of the Lake around the island. Purchase plants and organize a volunteer planting program. Algae Bloom reduction Responsible Person: Mark Markwort Date: winter 2002 Cost: $900.00 Start program of tracking algae count in the water to detect an upcoming algae bloom. This data will be used in the timing of the water treatment to reduce or eliminate algae blooms. • EXHIBIT C CLEAN LAKES, INC. Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration &Maintenance • September 14,2001 Mr. Steven B. Kahn Public Works Director City of Atascadero 6500 Palma Avenue Atascadero, CA 93422 RE: Atascadero Lake Management Dear Mr. Kahn: Per our site inspection and discussions regarding the management of Atascadero Lake, a brief report is as follows: Background: Clean Lakes, Inc. staff has been in discussions with Lake resident Barbara Combs and have made several site inspections since June of 1996. Staff met with Mr. Kahn and a group of lake representatives on August 6, 2001 to review the current lake conditions,the proposed shoreline restoration plan, and historical conditions of the lake • system. Available memos/correspondence(7 total)and reports between the periods of March 1987(Feasibility Study for the Improvement of Atascadero Lake,Alderman Engineering) and February 11, 1992 (Memorandum from Andrew J. Takata and Ray Windsor)were reviewed along with discussions with lake residence(Barbara Combs)have been taken into consideration. Recommendations: These recommendations are based on current lake conditions of blue green algae growths, low visibility, low dissolved oxygen levels,a recent fish kill, and a lack of current water quality data from the information obtained to date. It is recommended that a Water Quality Monitoring Program be implemented to_monitor and track changes in water quality,that an Aeration System be installed to increase dissolved oxygen levels and increase circulation,that natural enzymes and bacteria be used to manage excess nutrients within the system,that waterfowl management options be review to decrease nutrient loading,and that the use of aquatic plants to aid in the natural filtration process be reviewed. The goal of the City should be to develop a long term Lake Management Plan. Intern measurers such as the initiation of a Water Quality Monitoring Program and Waterfowl surveys will provide some of the required data for the development of the management plan. The installation of an Aeration System,and efforts to manage nutrients within the • P.O.Box 3186•Martinez, California 94553 USA t t http:11www.cleanlake.com i E-mail.info@cleantake.com o� Phone: (925)957-1905 0 Fax:(925)957-1906 9 (Toll Free)877-FIX-LAKE CLEAN LAKES, INC. • Mr. Steven B. Kahn September 14,2001 Page Two system via the use of natural enzymes and bacteria are steps that can be initiated immediately in efforts to enhance the lake system. Some specifics are as follows: Water Quality Monitoring Program: To understand,track and compare current water quality data to that obtained and reported in March 1997(Feasibility Study for the Improvement of Atascadero Lake,Alderman Engineering),a monthly water quality monitoring program should be initiated that includes a minimum of the following parameters: Temperature;pH; Dissolved Solids;Alkalinity; Hardness; Specific Conductance;Nitrates;Ammonia; and Phosphates. The associated costs are estimated at $1,400.00 per month. Nutrient Management Program: As nutrient inputs into the lake system have been reduced with the installation of a sewer system and other land management practices, it is recommended that nutrients within the system be managed via the use of natural enzymes and bacteria that would digest and breakdown the organics within the lake system with an overall reduction in algae growth over time. This would involve bi-monthly treatments of the lake system with Aqua-Prep enzyme solution to digest organic debris and Nutri- Sorb microbial blend to reduce organic muck. Based on the lake size of 30 acres and an average depth of 6.85 feet,material costs for the initial application would be approximately$3,465.00 (45 gallons of Aqua-Prep and 90 pounds of Nutri-Sorb). The monthly material costs would be approximately$1,800.00. Based on the above,the annual material costs would be approximately$25,065.00(12 x 1,800.00 plus initial application 3,465.00). Aeration System: A proper aeration system would increase the efficiency of organic sediment breakdown,reduce leaching of phosphorus from the sediment(decrease algae growth), eliminate stagnation while increasing dissolved oxygen levels and improving the aquatic environment. The approximate costs of an aeration system installed in the lake system is $96,480.00 based on using the current pump installation locations,high oxygen exchange Mix Air Tech diffuser heads, one diffuser head per acre and self sinking air hose. Waterfowl Management Options: High waterfowl populations can add excessive nutrients to a lake system that can exceed inputs from other sources. In efforts to manage nutrient inputs into the lake system, a review of migratory and resident waterfowl populations over the course of a year should be conducted by City staff or via a group of concerned lakeshore residents in an effort to determine population levels. The data obtained would be used to calculate nutrient loading from this source. • 00, 0 CLEAN LAKES, INC. Mr. Steven B.Kahn September 14,2001 • Page Three Natural Filtration Options: The use of aquatic plants to aid in the natural filtration process may prove to be a viable option following a review of nutrient levels and annual nutrient loads and their sources. The selection of native aquatic plants is based on the nutrient loads,where the loads enter the lake(streams, storm drains,etc.),and what plants would provide the nutrient uptake required to support reductions. Approach: In the event the City is interested, Clean Lakes,Inc. would be available to perform the water quality monitoring and write quarterly reports as well as to perform the applications of Aqua-Prep and Nutri-Sorb. The estimated monthly costs for the monitoring and reporting would be approximately$1,400.00 while the application of the Aqua-Prep and Nutri-Sorb would be approximately$1,200.00 per month plus material costs. Clean Lakes, Inc. would use the data generated through the monitoring program to generate a long term Lake Management Plan. The approximate costs to develop a long term Lake Management Plan over the course of a year with data obtained from the above activities(Water Quality Monitoring, Waterfowl Counts), and additional data that would be obtained during the Plan development process would be approximately$12,500.00. The Plan would include a Bathometric Map of the lake system. The Lake Management Plan would be a valuable asset to move forward with long-term restoration efforts. The Bathometric Map would • provide critical lake volume data that would be used for determining accumulated sediment levels, exact volumes to calculate specific aeration system requirements, provide data for calculations related to aquatic vegetation management such as algae control applications,and provide a document for soliciting funds for lake restoration and management activities. I hope the above provides some insight into appropriate methods of dealing with your lake management efforts. Give me a call with any questions you may have. Sincerely, CL A S, INC. 44 Tho J. McNabb tmcnabb a,cleanlake.com www.cleanlake.com JAN 0 7 2002 J�7' C��f � n_a_VMlJVtt0 a s c a e r o M � lc ChamberofCommerce 6550 EI Camino Real•Atascadero,CA 93422•(805) 466-2044•Fax(805) 466-9218•www.atoscaderochamber.org December 28, 2001 City Report for Chamber's Activities and Programs October through December 2001 Programs and Events Instead of giving you a report on just the last three months of 2001, I decided to provide you with the year end recap of the Chamber's accomplishments. With the holidays upon us I find myself reflecting on this past years accomplishments of our dynamic Chamber of Commerce. The year sped by with it beginning with our Annual Installation Dinner in January. Many wonderful people who have given our community so much through the years were honored at that time. We look forward to 2002's Dinner January 19,2002 when a new list of honorees will be made public. Through the Chamber efforts in the Community, we helped local non-profits raise almost $20,000 through the Tuesday Evening in the Parks Barbecues, sold numerous tickets to • local and county wide events and became better partners with our schools. The Chamber was able to award$3,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors that are furthering their education in business. A new program,which we are about to announce the grant winners, is our Partners in Education Grants. These grants will be awarded in$500 increments to teachers that want to bring business into their classrooms in creative ways. We are very excited about his project that is being headed up by Peter Smith at the High School and other Chamber members that are making this money available. Mid State Bank and Trust has graciously donated$1,000 and Atascadero Rotary donated$500 to make this worthwhile project a success. The Chamber Golf Tournament in conjunction with the Atascadero Wine Festival and our Wild West Casino Night were two very fun events for the Chamber. These events primarily funded much of the money needed for our Educational Scholarship programs and Grants. I hope many of you will continue your support of these deserving projects. As far as City matters go, a group of Chamber members studied the General Plan rewrite extensively to help guide the Chamber in recommendations to the Board to put forth to the Chamber's perspective. This document will be very important to shape the future of Atascadero and ensure the success of our business community. The Legislative committee has been very active on the part of Chamber members in representing the views of business to city officials and staff. This committee works hard to ensure the health and well being of our business community. • 092 In support of the retail community the Chamber sponsored 4 CityWide events through the year. Spring into Atascadero, Summer Sellabration,48-hour end of summer sale and the final one currently underway is Holiday Magic. We do hope you will visit the 43 businesses that have special items they are giving away in their stores. This should truly be a magical shopping tour of our local businesses. Along with the City and Historical Societies tree lighting event,the Chamber provided free candles for a special candle light ceremony, "Light A Light For America". A special moment was reserved in honor of our country and all the people affected by September 11. Many of you were present to see the beautiful sight of over 350 candles shining bright. The Media and Communications Committee welcomed the new Board of Directors for Main Street with a free lunch in the Rotunda. Paso's Main Street Board of Directors came out in force to welcome the Board and provide the needed support to help make our Main Street strong and viable. A Mid-Year Economic Forecast was also held to a large group of interested people. The support of this forum was most encouraging for us to go forward and plan an even more informative mid year snapshot of how our community is stacking up in the middle of 2002. On the Media front, partnerships were formed with Charter Media and KXDZ 100.5 radio to bring affordable advertising rates to our local businesses. Both programs are off and running and we should see and hear more of these commercials running highlighting our ad campaign Discover Atascadero. We bring these innovative programs to our members so they can do their best for our community. If businesses are successful locally, so will sports teams,theatre groups, local non-profits, the Zoo and many others that rely on local businesses for those needed donations uniforms and a variety of needed materials. Shop locally,we all win. • Many of you attended and supported our successful Business Showcase Mixer,Passport to Success in September. Approximately 900 people enjoyed the food and friendship, and especially getting their Passport stamped to try to be the lucky winder of$500. The publishing of the new Chamber Business Directory and Visitor Guide made a splash with so much more color photos representing our many assets in the community. They are still available in our office for free. Please stop by and pick one up. To keep up with our new century, a complete revise of the Chamber website was completed. Many user- friendly aspects were added to make the site very easy to use and get that important information you need. Please log on to atascaderochamber.org and see for yourself some interesting things you may not even have known about our area. Of course all of this has been made possible by the many volunteer hours so many Chamber members give to the Chamber,the Board of Directors and especially our Ambassadors. When you look back everyone deserves a big pat on the back for what we as a group have accomplished this year. As you can see this has been a fruitful year for the Chamber and one I have thoroughly enjoyed. I wish everyone the best for your holiday season filled with family and friends and a prosperous New Year. 033 The following is items we have handled in the last three months of 2001. MonthlyNewsletters were published and sent to our now 500 me p tubers. As of this time our Ambassadors have personally visited 114 existing business members. The Adopt a New Member program is going well by insuring members stay informed. All 22 new members to the Chamber received calls from our Ambassadors inviting and informing them of the programs we have going in the month. The response has been good. The Ambassadors have been key to helping at all the Chamber functions. We are noted by many that our Chamber is full of very friendly people that make them feel welcome. The Chamber sold numerous tickets for local organization fund raising, concerts,and theatre groups. Colony Days has kept us the most busy with dispensing Parade and Booth applications and selling tickets for the new dance event. Artist in the Studios tour,First Night in SLO are just a few of the tickets handled in the last tree months. The Chamber has been involved in the following local programs Main Street Organization and Promotions Committees,Downtown Lighting Ceremony, Partners in Public Health, Colony Days and Career Connections at Cuesta College. Joanne is also on the Board of Directors for the EVC as a representative as President of the SLOCHEX, SLO County Chamber Executives, organization and recently appointed to the Zoo Board. Joanne has recently been appointed Vocation Chair for Rotary 2001- • 2002. The main project as chair will be a Leadership and Ethics Conference to be held with Atascadero High School Juniors and Seniors in March 2002. This half-day program will highlight the ideals for a good leader and pose some ethical questions that will sure to spark thought. Through a grant from the Partners in Public Health, a committee was formed to create an identity for Atascadero. This new identity would be used to attract and retain businesses, tourism promotion and build community pride. Pierre Rademaker was hired and led a focus group to establish the look and the feel of what our identity could possess. The project is scheduled for completion in the next two months. The City and the Chamber will be able to use this new image to create a cohesive identity for Atascadero. The group has made their choice of logo and agreed to creating certain identity items. The unveiling of the logo will take place at the January 17`x'Mixer hosted by Maxcare. I hope all of you can come to celebrate this cooperative effort. 2001 Visitor Information Services provided, October through December Phone calls logged 2284 Visitors 1179 Relocation Packets Mailed 39 Email response 22 • We received the following Website visits. These figures are truly encouraging and seem to be growing every quarter.. With our new expanded Website we will see these numbers increase. General Info 902 Members Info 815 Events 239 Tourism 441 Recreation 810 Surrounding Area Info 190 22 new businesses were welcomed into the Chamber since September of this year. Our total membership now is 500. We added a grand total of 70 new members in 2001. Economic Development The Chamber is trying to track people that have requested business location or expansion information from the Chamber. Not all people are willing to share their information until they have completed their research. Since the activity of September 11'h,we have noticed most businesses are staying put, and we did not receive to our knowledge a request for information for a business relocation or expansion. • Promo's and PSA run on Charter Media Channels Holiday Magic 64 spots on prime slots $2,500 Production for Discover Atascadero $2,000 10 Generic spots per week per network $28,800 Discover Atascadero Total Charter Promotinal Spots not including Costs to create the spots $33,300 KXDZ 100.5 Discover Atascadero Campaign $1,200 120 promotional spots each month They really have played more than this. '5;5