Draft Gaviota Coast Plan Chapter 5: Parks, Recreation & Trails

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1 Draft Gaviota Coast Plan Chapter 5: Parks, Recreation & Trails 12/21/2012 Long Range Planning Division Planning and Development Department County of Santa Barbara

2 Page Intentionally Blank Cover Photo: Gaviota Morning in Tajiguas by Mark Bright

3 Table of Contents 1.0 INTRODUCTION...x 2.0 BACKGROUND AND SETTING...x 3.0 LAND USE x 4.0 AGRICULTURE...x 5.0 PARKS, RECREATION AND TRAILS x 6.0 NATURAL RESOURCES...x 7.0 VISUAL RESOURCES x 8.0 TRANSPORTATION, ENERGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE x 9.0 REFERENCES x

4 Chapter 5: Parks, Recreation and Trails I. Physical Setting Parks & Recreation The Gaviota Coast is well known as a coastal recreation destination of local and statewide importance due in part to the unspoiled beauty of the Gaviota coast and miles of relatively pristine coastline. Three major state parks exist within the Plan area: Gaviota State Park, El Capitan State Park, and Refugio Beach State Park. Approximately 11 miles of coastline, encompassing over 3,000 acres are now in State ownership. Activities at the state parks include camping, picnicking, swimming, surfing, windsurfing, diving, fishing, walking on the beach, hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling. In addition to the developed parks, offshore recreational activities in the Plan area include sport fishing, diving, kayaking, and recreational boating. Boat launch facilities are provided at the Gaviota pier within Gaviota State Park. California State Parks Department also manages six other properties along the Gaviota Coast: Canada del Leon, Canada San Onofre, Canada del Molino, Canada de Guillermo, Corral Beach and Phillips Tajiguas West. There are no improvements at these locations; however, many of the locations have historically been used as undeveloped vertical beach access points from informal turn-outs along Highway 101. In 1943, 23.5 acres of privately owned land was donated to the County by Bixby Ranch Company, and became Jalama Beach County Park. Lying at the end of Jalama Road approximately 15 miles southwest of Highway 1, it represents the first park and vertical public access north of Gaviota State Beach. The Park s relative isolation along the least developed stretch of Southern California coast and rugged beauty gives the visitor a glimpse of how the entire Southern California coastline appeared 100 years ago. The park maintains 116 campsites, all overlooking the ocean or beachfront. Activities include dayuse picnic areas, fishing, nature study, surfing and windsurfing. Although isolated, the park is well developed, including such amenities as hot showers, electrical hook-ups, and the Jalama Beach Store and Grill. Privately managed recreational areas also provide opportunities for public enjoyment within the Plan Area. The 782-acre Arroyo Hondo Preserve is managed by the Land Trust of Santa Barbara as a natural and historic preserve. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking and experience the natural setting of the preserve on a reservation basis. El Capitan Canyon Campground is a privately managed campground located directly north of El Capitan State Beach. The facility offers campsites, cabins, RV hook-ups, nonmotorized RV cabins and a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, bicycling, swimming, volleyball, and a rope climb agility course. The Hollister Ranch Owners' Association provides access to school children and researchers to its shoreline preserve and the untouched tidelands adjacent to the beach along with access to the Common Areas of the Ranch for community groups. The Los Padres National Forest covers 15,634 acres within the Plan area. Recreational activities within the Forest primarily consist of hiking, mountain biking, and nature study along the crest of the Santa Ynez Mountain range.

5 Gaviota Coast - Parks and Recreation Amenities Name El Capitan State Beach Refugio State Beach Gaviota State Park Jalama Beach County Park Baron Ranch* Operating Agency CA Dept. of Parks CA Dept. of Parks CA Dept. of Parks County Parks Dept. County Parks Dept. Coastal Access Yes Yes Yes Yes No Park Features Horseback trails, fishing, hiking and bike trails, beach wheelchair, camping, swimming, surfing, food service, supplies, trailers, showers, picnic tables Guided tours, fishing, hiking and bike trails, trailers, campers, beach wheelchair, camping, swimming, surfing, food service, showers, picnic tables Horseback trails, fishing, hiking trails, beach wheelchair, camping, swimming, food service, showers, picnic tables, public access pier, boat launch Fishing, hiking trails, beach wheelchair, camping, swimming, surfing, food service, showers, picnic tables Hiking (dogs, bicycles, motor vehicles and equestrians not allowed) Number of Campsites 142 Campground Sites 61 Campground Sites 39 Campground Sites 116 Campground Sites No Camp Sites Acres 2,258 Acres Trails Yes 67 Acres Yes 2,261 Acres Yes 23 Acres Yes 723 Acres Yes El Capitan Canyon Resort Arroyo Hondo Preserve Los Padres National Forest El Capitan Canyon (Private) Land Trust of Santa Barbara County U.S. Forest Service No No No Camping, hiking, swimming, showers, food service, picnic tables Hiking (reservations required), picnic areas, group sites, nature study Hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, nature study 246 Campground Sites No Camp Sites No 447 Acres Yes 782 acres Yes 15,634 acres Yes 5-2

6 Coastal Access and Trails The public s right of access to all beach areas below the mean high tide line is guaranteed by the California Constitution. The Legislature, in passing the Coastal Act, did not alter these basic public rights but did establish a policy framework for achieving the goal of providing maximum opportunities for public use and enjoyment of the coast. Policies which address the issues of access and recreation are identified in Sections of the Coastal Act. Organized public beach access locations along the entire 39-miles of coastline with the Plan area are limited to four locations: El Capitan State Beach, Refugio State Beach, Gaviota State Park, and Jalama Beach County Park. The remainder of the coastline from Jalama to Gaviota State Park, and east of El Capitan State Park is comprised of large private land holdings and public access to the beach is currently not allowed except under privately managed access programs. Existing public trails in the inland portion of the Plan area are primarily located within Gaviota State Park, El Capitan State Park and the Los Padres National Forest along West Camino Cielo. The Baron Ranch is located north of Highway 101 near Arroyo Quemado Creek and is owned by Santa Barbara County. The Baron Ranch Loop Trail is a 6-mile trail recently completed and opened to the public in December The trail is currently use-restricted to foot traffic only: mountain bikes, dogs and equestrians are currently prohibited, although such restrictions may be reviewed and reconsidered over the long term. Currently, the County of Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara Trails Council is working closely with the U.S. Forest Service to construct and maintain a 3.5 mile extension of the Baron Ranch Trail. The trail would cross land under the management of the Los Padres national Forest and extend to the crest of the Santa Ynez Mountains and connect with an existing fire break trail along the crest of the Santa Ynez Mountains. II. Planning Issues Recreational Demand The state and county beach parks are popular destinations due to their scenic coastal location and the variety of coastal recreation opportunities. Annual visitation at all parks continues to increase with peak demand experienced during summer months. Many of the parks are at full capacity during the summer requiring overnight camping reservations months in advance. The continued increase in total visitation indicates a high level of demand for coastal recreation in the Plan area. Accompanying the high level of recreational use is the potential for degradation of coastal resources over time. Planning to meet existing and future recreational demand will need to balance the appropriate type, intensity, and location of uses with protection and restoration of important coastal resources. Planning for the California Coastal Trail The vision for the California Coastal Trail (CCT) is rooted in the commitment by the State to provide and maintain coastal access for all Californians and visitors. In 1972, Californians passed Proposition 20 that recommended a trail system be established along or near the coast. Subsequently, the Coastal Act of 1976 required local jurisdictions to identify an alignment for the CCT in their Local Coastal Programs. The CCT is envisioned to be a continuous interconnected public trail system along the California coastline, designed to foster appreciation and stewardship of the scenic and natural resources of the coast through hiking and other complementary modes of non-motorized transportation. 5-3

7 The CCT has been a part of the County s Comprehensive Plan and Local Coastal Plan since their respective legislative adoptions in 1980 and 1982, as shown on the County s Parks, Recreation, and Trails (PRT) Map which depicts a general coastal trail alignment from Jalama Beach County Park to the eastern Plan area boundary. The only segment of the CCT completed to date with the Plan area is a 4.5- mile segment between the east side of El Capitan Ranch and Refugio State Beach, which was completed by California Department of Parks and Recreation and Santa Barbara County Parks Department (Figure 5-6 & 5-7). Coastal bluff erosion has damaged the western portion of the trail near Refugio Beach. To protect public safety, State Parks has closed this segment of the trail until a viable, long-term solution can be identified for re-establishing this highly popular and scenic portion of the CCT. The Gaviota Coast Plan identifies a shared community vision to create quality recreational experiences for the public, while preserving and protecting valuable agricultural operations, natural resources and the rural character of the Plan area. The Parks, Recreation and Trails Element (PRT) of the Gaviota Coast Plan (See following section) provides the policy guidance and framework for implementing public trails and recreational amenities consistent with the community's vision for the Gaviota Coast. 5-4

8 IV. Policies and Implementation Parks, Recreation & Trails Element The Parks, Recreation and Trails (PRT) portion of Santa Barbara County Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element was approved by the Board of Supervisors to provide policies and standards to guide the planning and implementation of public trails and recreational amenities throughout unincorporated Santa Barbara County. This section of the Gaviota Coast Plan updates the PRT maps, policies and standards of the Santa Barbara County Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element for the Gaviota Coast Plan area. In so doing, the Gaviota Coast Plan establishes PRT maps, policies and standards which supersede the PRT maps, policies and standards in the Land Use Element for the Gaviota Planning Area. a. Statement of Purpose and Intent The purpose and intent of the Gaviota Coast Plan Parks, Recreation and Trails Element (PRT) is to create quality recreational experiences for the public, while preserving and protecting valuable agricultural operations, natural resources and the rural character of the plan area. Recreational Trails - The Gaviota Planning Advisory Committee (GAVPAC) has recognized that the recreational trail component is the overriding priority in crafting the PRT. The spirit in which the GavPAC addressed trail issues was one of cooperation and respect for divergent viewpoints, intending to effectively balance the interests of both the public at-large and private property owners. In order to realize the vision of creating a complimentary network of trails, linking and providing access to the sea and the mountains, the PRT is comprised of a set of maps graphically depicting a network of lateral and vertical trail alignments accompanied by PRT trail narratives explaining contextual conditions; a general policy framework for general trail siting, design and intensity of use issues; location guidelines and design standards for specific trail segments; and policies and guidelines to incentivize completion of the network. The intent of the PRT policies and maps, therefore, is to direct the County as it incrementally implements the Plan while adhering to the following principles: To establish a regional trail system that effectively meets the needs of visitors; To manage the human impact on agricultural operations, natural resources, private property and privacy; To prioritize trail locations on public lands, or on private lands of willing property owners; To respect private property rights in trail planning and acquisition; and To provide necessary infrastructure, maintenance, and trail management. By following these principles while implementing the PRT, the County will, over time, establish an effective system of trails that provides the public with a superior recreational experience, protects natural resources and adjoining land uses, and preserves the rural character of the region. (GavPAC Action Revised Trail Policy Framework, Mtg. 52) 5-5

9 b. General Trail Siting Principles 1. The Gaviota Coast Plan Parks, Recreation and Trails map identifies general trail alignments and locations for planning purposes to establish a network of inland and coastal public trail opportunities within the Gaviota Coast Plan area. Potential trail alignments and locations on the PRT maps include both general and more defined trail alignments and locations which should be considered along with adopted Plan policies, development standards, trail narratives, and supporting Plan text. Trails described by the Plan should be prioritized for establishing practical trail routes within the planning horizon. The Plan provides additional guidance regarding trail alignments and locations, alignment preferences and intent (where specified), opportunities and constraints, as well as resource, land use and ownership considerations to be addressed in all phases of trail planning, easement acquisition, and trail siting, construction, operation, and maintenance. Together, the policy intent reflects the necessity for flexibility in planning the locations of proposed trails. The terrain of an area, privacy of the property owner and neighbors, safety of trail users, environmental constraints, and other factors will influence the ultimate placement of a trail. (GavPAC Action Revised Trail Policy Framework, Mtg. 52). 2. The basis for trails planning on the Gaviota Coast is a vision of an interconnected system of trails running from the eastern to the western boundaries of the Planning Area that identifies appropriate trailhead locations and facilities serving a range of trail users at the appropriate intensity for each location. (GavPAC Action Revised Trail Policy Framework, Mtg. 52). c. PRT Map Definitions and Standards Trail Designation Two types of off-road trails are shown on the PRT maps: 1. Existing Trail The trail is legally dedicated to the County of Santa Barbara, or is located on existing public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, or California Department of Parks and Recreation. The trail is usually in the form of an easement containing an approximately four (4) to six (6) foot wide trail tread. 2. Proposed Trail The trail is not yet legally dedicated for public use and is contingent upon trail easement acquisition from willing landowners, or through conditions on development entitlements. The Gaviota Coast Plan PRT maps include additional sub-categories for proposed trail designations as follows: a. Primary Route Proposed trail route indicating preferred trail location with respect to general alignment, connectivity and user experience. b. Secondary Route Optional trail route if primary route is deemed infeasible, or may be planned as complimentary to primary route to enhance connectivity and/or user experience. c. Alternate Alignment Within the Coastal Trail Alignment Overlay: Indicates a continuation of the coastal trail with or without a preferred or specific alignment (See PRT Trail Narratives for details); or, alternatives to a primary route to be evaluated in conjunction with proposed or pending development. 5-6

10 Trail Corridors d. Exploratory Route Potential trail location subject to trail feasibility studies and assessment of trail carrying capacity and potential resource and land use impacts. e. Coastal Trail Alignment Overlay The purpose and intent of the Coastal Trail Alignment Overlay is to provide guiding principles, objectives and preferences, where appropriate, to assist future efforts to plan, site, and implement the coastal trail alignment. The overlay generally extends between Refugio State Beach and Gaviota State Park and from the Caltrans right-of-way north of Highway 101 to the coastal bluff edge. The overlay is a planning tool to coordinate future trail feasibility studies and create opportunities to work cooperatively with agencies and landowners to balance public access with resources protection. Planning for the coastal trail within the overlay shall take into consideration the following general principles. In addition to these general principles, refer to PRT Map narratives for each trail segment for additional area-specific principles, objectives, and preferences. 1. Identify opportunities to locate vertical access routes from Highway 101 to the beach. 2. Prioritize the location of bluff trails first, and then loop trails. 3. Locate multi-use trails and bicycle routes separated from the roadway adjacent to either side of Highway 101 with priority for routes to be adjacent to the south side of Highway Prepare feasibility studies for the location and/or repair of blufftop trails and alternative alignments. 5. Future trail/bicycle lane improvements by Caltrans along Highway 101 should not eliminate or preclude development of any formal, planned or existing informal vertical access sites along the coast. 6. Beach access, trails, and bicycle routes shall be considered where feasible and existing public access protected and enhanced during Caltrans, Union Pacific s, and State Parks planning to reconfigure or relocate their facilities in the Plan area. The lines which represent trails on the PRT maps do not show exact locations of proposed trails. Instead, the lines represent general corridors where a trail is proposed to be located. There are two reasons for this. First, the large scale of the maps makes it difficult to show precise routes of the trails. Second, flexibility for planning the locations of proposed trails is necessary. The terrain of an area, privacy of the property owner and neighbors, safety of trail users, agricultural operations and environmental constraints often influence the ultimate placement of a trail. (Source: Existing PRT Map, County Parks Department). 5-7

11 Joint Use of Trails Motorized vehicles are specifically excluded from use of County trails. 1 The trails dedicated to the County of Santa Barbara are considered multiple-use trails (i.e. hiking, horseback riding, bicycling); the exceptions are a few existing trails specifically designated only for hiking and/or equestrian use in the Grants of Easement. The anticipated uses for any particular trail or section of trail will depend on the neighborhood character, whether the trail provides a loop or connection to other trails in the system, environmental and resource constraints, and the terrain over which the trail crosses. (Source: Existing PRT Map, County Parks Department). Liability Liability risks of private property owners are addressed in Civil Code 2, which is intended to immunize private landowners from liability for injuries to persons, either permitted or trespassing, who enter the property for recreational purposes. Further protections for both public entities and grantors of public easements are stated in the Government Code 3. (Source: Existing PRT Map, County Parks Department). d. PRT Maps and Trail Alignment Narratives An Index Map (Figure 5-1) provides an overview of the Gaviota Coast Plan PRT map. The overall PRT map is divided into three map panels: an east panel, central panel and west panel. The panel maps are useful for referencing existing and proposed inland trails, as well as the proposed coastal trail alignment between Gaviota State Park and Jalama Beach County Park. The PRT map is further divided into five segment maps primarily along the coastal trail alignment between Gaviota State Park and the eastern Plan boundary (Figures 5-5 through 5-9). Each panel and segment map is accompanied by a trail alignment narrative. Trail Alignment Narratives The following trail alignment narratives provide additional supporting information regarding proposed trail alignments and locations, alignment preferences and intent (where specified), opportunities and constraints, as well as resource, land use and ownership considerations to be addressed in conjunction with future trail planning efforts. PRT Map East Panel (See Figure 5-2) 1. One additional inland trail route shall be created between El Capitan State Park (north of Highway 101) and the eastern planning area boundary, to achieve one additional vertical trail from Highway 101 to West Camino Cielo. For this future trail alignment, the proposed trail alignment on Dos Pueblos Ranch or the proposed Farren Road trail (Goleta Community Plan PRT-3 map) shall be reviewed and one selected as the most suitable and achievable route. 1 Santa Barbara County Code Section Section Section

12 PRT Map Central Panel (See Figure 5-3) 1. The proposed trail alignment for the West Camino Cielo crest trail west of Refugio Road generally follows existing boundaries between the Young America s Foundation property (APNs ;-046;-042;-003) and adjacent southern properties, primarily following the existing private road and previously disturbed areas. 2. Planning and implementation of the proposed West Camino Cielo crest trail west of Refugio Road should consider the potential for alternative trails, including existing trail easements as an alternative alignment. PRT Map West Panel (See Figure 5-4) Gaviota State Park to Hollister Ranch western boundary 1. The proposed trail alignment from Gaviota State Park to the Hollister Ranch western boundary indicates a continuation of the coastal trail. 2. Encourage continued dialogue with willing landowners to explore managed public access and recreation options. Hollister Ranch western boundary to Gaviota Coast Plan western boundary 1. The proposed trail alignment from the Hollister Ranch western boundary to the Gaviota Coast Plan western boundary indicates a continuation of the coastal trail. 2. Recognizing the unique value of the area, the County shall work with willing landowners and other agencies to explore options for future trails. 5-9

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18 Segment 1: Eagle Canyon to Dos Pueblos Ranch (See Figure 5-5) Planning for trails within PRT map Segment 1 shall take into consideration the following principles: 1. Provide coastal trail continuity south of the railroad with the Goleta Community Plan PRT-3 map proposed trail alignment. 2. Paradiso del Mare: The proposed trail primary route extends east to west and south of the railroad. 3. Makar (Naples township parcels): The proposed trail primary route should be located south of the highway as close to the ocean as feasible. Alternate alignments may be considered depending on environmental and topographic constraints, building envelope location and railroad crossing location on Paradiso del Mare. 4. Construct a trailhead parking lot with restrooms south of the highway on Santa Barbara Ranch. 5. Construct a trailhead parking lot north of the highway on Santa Barbara Ranch in close proximity to the Dos Pueblos Ranch northbound highway exit. 6. Explore opportunity for one additional vertical beach access between Tomate Canyon and Dos Pueblos Creek. Vertical beach access shall avoid potential impacts to the Naples seal haul out area and Naples Reef. 7. Dos Pueblos Ranch (south of Highway 101): For properties south of Highway 101, collectively known as Dos Pueblos Ranch, encourage the development of tools and incentives (e.g. clustering development, internal transfer of development rights, development agreements, etc) to balance potential development rights with important coastal land use issues. Potential public objectives include: Maintain and preserve agricultural production Provide opportunities for coastal trail and beach access south of the railroad where feasible Provide public and/or private low intensity recreational opportunities Protect important coastal visual, biological, archaeological, and historic resources Segment 2: Las Varas Ranch to El Capitan (See Figure 5-6) Planning for trails within PRT map Segment 2 shall take into consideration the following principles: 1. Construct a trailhead parking lot south of the highway on Las Varas Ranch. 2. Work with the landowner and Caltrans to facilitate potential future public trail access and/or improvements to the existing tunnel under Highway 101 near Gato Canyon. Public trail access shall not conflict with agricultural operations. 5-19

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22 Segment 3: El Capitan State Park to Tajiguas (See Figure 5-7) Planning for trails within PRT map Segment 3 shall take into consideration the following principles: Segment 3a: 1. The County shall work with El Capitan Canyon Campground, Caltrans, and State Parks to address safety concerns regarding cyclist and pedestrian use of the El Capitan State Beach undercrossing. 2. The County shall work with State Parks to prioritize development of a feasible, longterm solution to repair and then maintain the damaged Refugio State Beach to El Capitan State Beach bike path. 3. The County shall work with El Capitan Canyon Campground and State Parks to improve/formalize a trailhead with parking lot for the Bill Wallace Trail. 4. The County shall work with Caltrans and State Parks to establish viable parking options, including potential trailhead parking area, for recreational uses in the vicinity of the Refugio State Beach interchange. Options should address safety concerns and consider installing directional signage for trailhead. 5. The County shall work with Caltrans, Union Pacific Railroad, and State Parks to consider the long-term potential for realignment of the railroad to allow for more public access while ensuring viability of the railroad bed in the future. Segment 3b: 1. Apply the Coastal Trail Alignment Overlay general principles. 2. The alternate alignment from Refugio State Beach to Tajiguas indicates a continuation of the coastal trail with no specific alignment beyond a preference for an alignment(s) south of Highway 101. The Alternate Alignment south of the railroad should be a foot path only. 3. Explore vertical access opportunities where feasible. 4. Work with State Parks and private landowners to explore opportunities for acquisition of private landholdings south of Highway 101, between Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas Creek, for potential future public access. Segment 4: Tajiguas to San Onofre (See Figure 5-8) Planning for trails within PRT map Segment 4 shall take into consideration the following principles: Segment 4a: 1. Apply the Coastal Trail Alignment Overlay general principles. 2. The alternate alignment from Tajiguas to Arroyo Hondo indicates a continuation of the coastal trail with an initial priority for siting the trail between the railroad and Highway 101, recognizing the need for coordination between regional agencies as required. 3. Construct trailhead parking near the frontage road west of Tajiguas Creek. 5-25

23 Segment 4b: 1. Apply the Coastal Trail Alignment Overlay general principles. 2. The alternate alignment from Arroyo Hondo to San Onofre indicates a continuation of the coastal trail with no specific alignment. Segment 5: San Onofre to Gaviota State Park (See Figure 5-9) The proposed trails on PRT map Segment 5 support a vision of providing an enhanced network of trails from Sea to Cielo by linking the existing recreation, coastal access and trail amenities within Gaviota State Park with the proposed coastal trail and inland trail opportunities extending into the Los Padres National Forest (LPNF). The proposed trail alignments are primarily located on public lands and seek to utilize the existing infrastructure at the Mariposa Reina interchange with Highway 101 for enhanced trailhead access and to facilitate north/south trail connectivity. North of the Gaviota Tunnel, two existing trailhead parking areas (east and west of Highway 101) are located within Gaviota State Park near Las Cruces. The eastern trailhead provides access to a network of loop trails within the state park, and access to the Trespass Trail and the popular Gaviota Peak Trail which extends into the LPNF and West Camino Cielo Crest Trail. Opportunities for additional trail connectivity include providing a loop trail between Squat Camp and Trespass Trail. The Brinkman Property is bordered by Gaviota State Park to the west, the LPNF to the north, and Arroyo Hondo Preserve to the east. Due to its proximity to public lands and diversity of unspoiled natural resources, there may be interest in the future to work with the private landowners to explore land conservation opportunities and/or potential public acquisition. Future land conservation efforts involving the Brinkman Property shall explore opportunities for enhanced public trail access through the westernmost portion of the property. The PRT map (Segment 5) identifies a potential exploratory trail which could provide trail connectivity between the proposed trail alignment near Mariposa Reina/Gaviota Village and other proposed inland trails to the north within the LPNF. Additional exploratory trails in this area shall be supported and subject to trail feasibility studies and assessment of trail carrying capacity and potential resource and land use impacts. Planning for trails within PRT map Segment 5 shall take into consideration the trail narrative above and the following principles: 1. Apply the Coastal Trail Alignment Overlay general principles. 2. Re-use plans for the Gaviota Marine Terminal property, the PXP property, and adjoining State Parks lands should be planned cohesively with respect to recreation, trails, and coastal access. 3. Explore vertical access opportunities to the beach where feasible. 4. Use of the Mariposa Reina overpass is an important component of the proposed trail network. The County shall coordinate with Caltrans and State Parks to address cyclist and pedestrian use of the Mariposa Reina overcrossing to access potential trails north and south of the interchange. Trailhead parking should be provided in close proximity to the Mariposa Reina interchange. 5-26

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27 e. Trails and Coastal Access Policies Policy REC-1: Trail Opportunity Preferences. Opportunities to establish and enhance public trails, access, and recreational opportunities shall be pursued in the following order of preference: 1) public lands, 2) private lands of willing landowners, and 3) lands exacted as a result of the discretionary development process, subject to state and federal law. (GavPAC Action Revised Trail Policy Framework, Mtg. 52). Policy REC-2: Protect and Preserve Trail Alignments. All opportunities for public trails within the general alignments and locations identified on the Parks, Recreation and Trails (PRT) map shall be protected, preserved and provided for during review and approval of development and/or permits requiring discretionary approval. [Note: Remove or clarify per GavPAC direction. GavPAC Action Revised Trail Policy Framework, Mtg. 52] Policy REC 3: Siting and Design Considerations. Trail siting, design and maintenance should be low impact and foster sustainability. Planning for the location and intensity of use of public trails, access, and recreational opportunities within the Gaviota Coast plan area shall be conducted in accordance with the following: (GavPAC Action Revised Trail Policy Framework, Mtg. 52). 1. Trail alignments as indicated on the PRT map(s) represent suggested alignments that provide connectivity to the planned trails system. These suggested alignments should not be construed as final trail alignments for construction due to the coarse scale of the mapping, and the lack of detailed, site-specific information. Precise trail alignments require detailed site review, analysis and approval in accordance with the principles and policies of this Plan. 2. Planning for the location and intensity of use of public trails, access, and recreational opportunities shall minimize impacts to wildlife corridors, agricultural, biological, historic and cultural resources while allowing some public experience of these resources. The potential impacts of public uses with regard to supporting infrastructure, resources impacts, and impacts anticipated from climate change, including sea level rise and bluff erosion should be considered when specific trail alignments are considered. 3. Planning for the location and intensity of use of public trails shall consider siting and design features to keep hikers, bicyclists and equestrians on the cleared pathways and to minimize impacts to sensitive habitat areas and environmental resources. 4. Planning for trails within the Gaviota Coast Plan area shall consider trail user safety by minimizing at grade crossings of the railroad, and utilizing existing Highway 101 interchange crossings to provide north/south trail connectivity. 5. Planning for trails within the Gaviota Coast plan area shall consider the potential impacts of trail development from the landowner perspective, and seek to avoid or minimize conflicts with surrounding land uses. 6. Proposed trail alignments should seek to avoid areas that are highly geologically unstable or especially prone to erosion. Trails along the coastal bluff should be established as floating easements to provide for landward movement of permanent trail access in response to bluff retreat. 5-33

28 7. When new trails or segments are established, the appropriate uses to allow under the County s multiple-use trail policy shall also be determined. Appropriate use determination will depend on the area setting, whether the trail is a primary trail or provides a loop or connection to other trails in the system, the terrain over which the trail crosses, and effect on the area resources. Trail design shall reflect these uses. 8. Community involvement in the maintenance and interpretation of public trails and access areas should be actively encouraged. Policy REC 4: Coastal Trail Siting and Design Considerations. Siting, design and maintenance of the coastal trail and associated public access facilities should emphasize low impact designs and foster sustainability. In addition to the standards set forth in Policy Rec-3, the following shall be followed with respect to the specific siting and design of the trails within the Coastal Zone: (GavPAC Action Revised Trail Policy Framework, Mtg. 52). 1. The coastal trail shall be as close to or on the beach as feasible consistent with all other planning and resource constraints. Vertical connector trails shall provide reasonably spaced and periodic connections between the bike trail and the beach/bluff trail. 2. Trails shall be located to minimize the impacts on fragile coastal resources, agricultural operations, and historic and cultural resources, and should account for future sea level rise and associated bluff retreat. 3. The carrying capacity of the land traversed by the coast trail should be considered in order to protect existing resources as required by the Coastal Act. 4. Vertical beach access should utilize natural topography as much as possible to avoid engineered structures. However, where necessary and appropriate, engineered solutions should be sensitive to the viewshed and existing resources, and should minimize the need for maintenance. 5. Establishment and enhancement of coastal access and trails shall recognize the multiple uses served, use intensity, and level of infrastructure along the coastline. Consider locating high intensity trail activities, such as cycling, in close proximity to the highway. Lateral and vertical hiking trails are low intensity uses which can generally be accommodated near the coastal bluff or on the beach, where appropriate. 6. Trailhead parking facilities should be located as close as possible to Highway 101, and sanitation and trash facilities should be considered at major trailheads. 7. Public access facilities should be provided with the necessary management resources such as policing, liability management, trail maintenance, appropriate and necessary infrastructure, waste management, signage, and upkeep of parking areas. 8. In areas where local landowners or agencies control the scale, location, and design of public facilities, such facilities should be built to serve the needs of residents and visitors. 9. Commercial visitor serving structures should be limited to essential services and should be designed and sited to minimize visual and resource impacts. Necessary public visitor serving structures related to public access (such as trail signs, kiosks, interpretive exhibits, parking, and 5-34

29 restrooms), should be encouraged and should be designed and sited to minimize visual and resource impacts. Policy REC 5: Encourage Trail Dedications. Private property owners shall be encouraged through the use of incentives and other measures to voluntarily offer opportunities for public access on private lands. Policy REC 6: Interagency Coordination. The County should work cooperatively with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Caltrans, and the US Forest Service to establish an effective network of inland and coastal trails where jurisdictions overlap. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) should be established to coordinate planning and funding of future trail implementation, environmental review, construction, and long-term maintenance. f. Trails Implementing Actions Action REC 1: Develop Incentives. The County shall identify incentives for trail dedications from willing landowners, including reducing the permit requirement for trail development, land swaps, allowances of additional agricultural uses, and reducing development standards for properties affected by trails development. Action REC 2: Managed Access. The County should explore managed access as a potential concept to address public trail carrying capacity or resources concerns. The County should evaluate appropriate use limitations, if any, and provide a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors. Action REC 3: Encourage Trail Development Plans. Consider adopting a policy to encourage specific plans for trail development on large landholdings and identify priority areas to focus future specific planning efforts. Action REC 4: Coast Trail Planning Coordination. Identify issues and constraints related to coastal trail development, including the proximity of the trail to the ocean, and the California Coastal Conservancy guidelines for the coastal trail and coastal access. Identify preferred methods to achieve interjurisdictional coordination and planning. Action REC 5: Trail Siting Guidelines. The County shall develop trail siting guidelines to assist in the siting, design, construction and implementation of proposed trail alignments. The guidelines will address general siting characteristics; biological, agricultural, visual, and historic/cultural resources; access control; trail construction and maintenance, as well as trail specific guidelines as appropriate. The trail siting guidelines shall be adopted concurrently with the Gaviota Coast Plan. 5-35

30 g. Recreation Policies Policy REC-7: Coastal Views. Development of recreational facilities shall not impede views between U.S. 101 and the ocean, shall minimize grading, removal of vegetation, and paving, and shall be compatible with the rural character of the area. Existing natural features shall remain undisturbed to the maximum extent possible, and landscaping shall consist of native drought-tolerant species. (Adapted from CLUP Policy 7-13, pg. 90) Policy REC-8: Campground Development. Campgrounds and ancillary facilities sited south of U.S. 101 shall be set back as far as feasible from the beach in order to reserve near-shore areas for day use. Where feasible, new recreational facility development, particularly campgrounds and parking lots (except trailhead parking lots), shall be located north of U.S (Adapted from CLUP Policy 7-14, pg. 91) Policy REC-9: Coastal Riparian Protection. The vegetation in the small canyons at the mouths of Canada San Onofre, Canada del Molino and other coastal streams shall not be disturbed by recreational development or use. (Adapted from CLUP Policy 7-15, pg. 91) Policy REC-10: Development on State-owned lands. (Adapted from CLUP Policy 7-16, pg. 91) All new development on State-owned lands shall be in conformance with a recreational master plan approved by the County and the Coastal Commission, as applicable. The master plan shall include maps showing locations of proposed facilities and a text describing the entire scope of the State s long-range plans within the Gaviota Coast Plan Area (i.e., numbers of campsites, restrooms, parking lots, kinds of recreational activities to be accommodated, etc.). In addition, the master plan shall conform to the following criteria: a. Facilities for overnight use by out-of-county visitors shall be balanced with those for day use by local residents. b. Intensities and kinds of recreational uses shall be controlled so as not to exceed the environmental carrying capacity of the area. c. Alternative transportation systems to provide access to State parks (i.e., shuttle buses, bicycles) shall be used where feasible. Policy REC-11: Campground Use Priority. Since existing State parks in the Gaviota area already provide extensive facilities for recreational vehicle camping, priority in future development shall be for campgrounds that would be accessible by bicycle and pedestrian trails only and for hostels. (Incorporated from CLUP Policy 7-17, pg. 91) Policy REC-12: Access and Recreation Opportunities. Expanded opportunities for access and recreation shall be provided in the Gaviota Coast planning area. (Incorporated from CLUP Policy 7-18, pg. 91) Implementing Actions: a. In order to maximize access to the beaches, vertical easements connecting the proposed coastal bicycle trail (linking Santa Barbara and Gaviota) to the beach shall be acquired by a public agency at the following locations: 5-36

31 1. Haskell s Beach (near Bell Canyon) 2. Dos Pueblos Canyon 3. Edwards (near Gato Canyon) 4. Tajiguas Creek 5. Arroyo Quemado 6. Arroyo Hondo 7. Canada de Guillermo 8. Canada del Molino 9. Canada San Onofre The trails connecting the bicycle path to the beach shall be well-marked and bicycle racks shall be provided. Where necessary, stairways from the top of the bluffs shall be provided. Public parking and other facility development, other than staircases, fences, improved trails, bicycle racks, and picnic tables, shall not be permitted at these access ways except as specified in section b. b. In order to increase opportunities for coastal dependent and related recreational uses, the following areas, which have recreational potential, should be acquired by a public agency: 1. Haskell s Beach: Facility Development (Hike-in and bike-in campground, parking, restrooms, picnic tables, bike rack). 2. Dos Pueblos: Facility Development (Day use only, parking, restrooms, picnic tables, bike rack). 3. Edwards: Facility Development (Parking, restrooms, picnic tables, bike racks, store, low-intensity camping). 4. Tajiguas: Facility Development (Day use only, parking, restrooms, bike racks). 5. San Onofre: Facility Development (Day use only, parking, picnic tables, bike racks). Policy REC-13: Naples Reef. In order to protect the marine resources of Naples Reef and the adjacent beach as a hauling out area for harbor seals, intensive recreational use shall not be encouraged. Access to the site should continue to be by way of boats. (Incorporated from CLUP Policy 7-19, pg. 92) Policy REC-14: Las Flores Canyon. The County should consider opportunities for low-intensity recreational uses within Las Flores Canyon at such time the Las Flores Canyon Oil & Gas Processing Plant is decommissioned. 5-37