The proposed project would excavate portions of the 10.3 acre Basin E/F of the Goleta Slough to accommodate tidal flow.  The project would also fill portions of Basin E/F to reduce freshwater ponding and provide more high marsh habitat.  The upstream end of the berm separating Foxtrot Drainage from Basin E would be breached just south of the culvert outfall and a small portion of the drainage would be filled to divert storm waters into a new channel through Basin E.  At the downstream end of the Foxtrot Drainage/Basin E berm a portion of the berm would be breached near the confluence of Foxtrot Drainage and Tecolotito Creek to create a connection between Basin E and the Creek.  The middle section of the Foxtrot Drainage/Basin E berm would be lowered and blended into Basin E topography to accommodate tidal flow.  The 24-inch culvert at the southern berm of Basin E and the 36-inch culvert and sluice gate at the southern end of Basin F would both be removed.  Additionally, hydrological connectivity with Basin G would also be improved by clearing the 24-inch culvert and grading the northwestern corner of Basin G to facilitate flow and minimize ponding.

Connection of Basin E/F to the tidal flows of Tecolotito Creek and Foxtrot Drainage would require aquadams be placed in Tecolotito Creek upstream and downstream of the area of construction.  Approximately 500 linear feet of Tecolotito Creek and 800 linear feet of Foxtrot Drainage are proposed to be dammed and dewatered to accommodate this connection.

Documents

Notice of Intent to Adopt DRAFT MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION – MST2009-00424

Initial Study Document with Attachments