Santa Susana Mountains park grows

Santa Clarita buys more open space

http://www.signalscv.com/m/section/36/article/134837/

By Luke Money
Signal Staff Writer
March 29, 2015


City Council members have approved another boost to Santa Clarita’s open space by agreeing to buy about 173 acres of vacant land near the Newhall Pass. (SEE MAP ABOVE:  from right to left: AIDLIN PARCELS, Taylor Property, and Gateway Ranch)
The council signed off on purchasing the property for about $1.91 million at its most recent meeting last Tuesday 3/24/15.
The property, approximately 173.54 acres in all, is near Newhall Pass and west of other city-owned open space in Towsley Canyon.
Purchase of the property “will enhance the city’s on-going efforts to preserve open space lands and improve trail connectivity throughout the Newhall Pass,” the agenda from last week reads.
The property will also create an additional link from the Santa Susana Mountains to the San Gabriel Mountains and enhance Santa Clarita’s greenbelt west of Interstate 5, city officials say.

The city has purchased several parcels recently to expand its Open Space Preservation District in Newhall Pass.
In October, city officials dedicated the 302-acre Gateway Ranch property in Newhall Pass as open space. http://scvnews.com/2014/10/29/city-officials-cut-the-ribbon-on-gateway-ranch-open-space/

That land was once proposed to be part of the massive Las Lomas development project — a controversial plan that called for a 5,500-home community with 2 million square feet of commercial space and a 300-room hotel on the northeastern side of Interstate 5 just above the junction with Highway 14.
http://hikesantaclarita.com/where-to-go/gateway-ranch/

http://sd27.senate.ca.gov/sites/sd27.senate.ca.gov/files/outreach/sd27-201412-enewsletter.php

BACKGROUND: 302 Acres--Gateway Ranch Acquisition 

Numerous sources were tapped to secure funding to purchase the property, including:

--$1.66 million from the California Wildlife Conservation Board;

--$650,000 from the Los Angeles County Proposition A funds through the Office of Supervisor Antonovich;

--$350,000 from the California Natural Resources Agency;

--$2.06 million from the City of Santa Clarita's Open Space Preservation District

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Also last year, city officials dedicated the Taylor Open Space, which covers 114 acres and is located in Lyons Canyon west of The Old Road and north of the city-owned Rivendale Park (which is in Towsley Canyon). http://www.signalscv.com/archives/128098/

http://scvnews.com/2014/09/22/council-tuesday-city-could-buy-never-built-lyons-canyon-ranch/

http://hikesantaclarita.com/where-to-go/taylor/

BELOW: the Taylor Open Space

SMMC-MRCA 10/2/2013 to 8/25/2014

L.A. Parks News Blast, #3: Rare Earth News publisher falls asleep in front of TV, His readers miss news about all these big deals....

Dear Readers,
From October of 2013 until July 2014 I was swamped with work and could not churn out my supply of good hiking news for you. I'm back and here's all the news that piled up in my in-box, cut down to the basics with e-links so you can find out more info. If your email box fills up with all this, I apologize. From mine to yours.
....enjoy...Rex

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Taken from the agendas of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority for October 2013 to August 2014

Consideration of resolution adopting FY 14/15 MRCA Workprogram. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 5/7/2014  GREAT MAP!!!!!

(wish list for new parkland in red shading, if only the $$$ was available)

SANTA SUSANA MOUNTAINS:

PURCHASE OF 232 ACRES IN NEWHALL PASS—FORMERLY A PROPOSED 5000 HOME DEVELOPMENT:

We covered this project extensively until the L.A. City Council wisely decided that this was no place for more urban sprawl: read more here http://rare-earth-news.blogspot.com/search?q=Las+Lomas

Assignment of the right to apply for 5th District Specified Excess Funds to the Trust for Public Land for the acquisition of Newhall Pass properties east of Interstate 5, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] SMMC 11/4/2013; [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 10/2/2013

--matching grant of Proposition 84 funds to the City of Santa Clarita for acquisition of Valley Vista project, approximately 232 acres (former Las Lomas project) in the Newhall Pass wildlife habitat linkage, apn’s 2827-030-011,-012,013; 2827-029-008; 2827-031-002, and -007, Santa Clarita. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] SMMC 11/4/2013

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BROWNS CANYON: DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL CALLED HIDDEN CREEK ESTATES; AND ADDITIONAL LAND PURCHASES:

resolution opposing the proposed Hidden Creeks Estates Project (cpc-2005-6656-ad-gpa-zc-cu-da-zad/env-2005-6657-eir) and authorizing a comment letter to the City of Los Angeles regarding said project in Browns Canyon watershed, County of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Attachment 5] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Comment Letter] SMMC 11/4/2013

resolution opposing the proposed Hidden Creeks Estates Project (CPC-2005-6656-AD-GPA-ZC-CU-DA-ZAD/VTT-68724/ENV-2005-6657-EIR), and, in the event that a project is approved, conditionally authorizing the acceptance of trail easements, conservation easements, and fee simple open space related to the project, Browns Canyon watershed, Chatsworth and Porter Ranch areas. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Attachment 5] [Map 1] [Map 2] MRCA 11/6/2013

Browns canyon/Pinkerton property: acquisition of APNs 2821-003-012 and 013 totaling approximately 80 acres in the Browns Canyon watershed using Proposition A funds and non-Corps related mitigation funds, unincorporated Chatsworth area. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 11/6/2013

Browns canyon road: roadway improvements at Michael D. Antonovich Regional Park at Joughin Ranch. [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 3/13/2014

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TOWSLEY CANYON PARK: augmentation of Grant No. smm-40-1267 for additional closing costs to settle Towsley Canyon purchase agreement, Santa Clarita Woodlands, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] SMMC 11/4/2013; [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 10/2/2013

SIMI VALLEY AT KEUHNER DRIVE: comment letter to the City of Simi Valley on Royal Oaks Hummingbird Creek development proposal. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Map] SMMC 8/25/2014

PICO AND SALT CANYONS: donation of approximately 80 acres of land in the Santa Clarita Woodlands area, APN’s 2826-014-052 and -053, north slope of Santa Susana Mountains. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 6/4/2014

CHATSWORTH—JOHNSON MOTORWAY TRAIL: dedication of trail easements to Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation over a portion of APNs 2821-010-905 and 2821-027-902, Rocky Peak Park and Indian Springs Open Space, Chatsworth. [Staff Report] [Map] [Resolution] MRCA 11/6/2013

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SIMI HILLS:

DAYTON AND WOOLSEY CANYONS IN WEST HILLS: (a) entering into an agreement with Centex Homes regarding Sterling at West Hills project (TT Map No. 52866); (b) acceptance of a minimum 250-acre open space dedication, various small conservation easements, and public access easements, and (c) acceptance of open space maintenance funding, Dayton and Woolsey Canyons, City of Los Angeles and incorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 5/7/2014

NORTH CHATSWORTH PEAK: authorizing the use of mitigation funds to acquire APN 648-0-270-325, conditionally from Ballona Ecosystem Education Project, comprised of approximately 118 acres on the north slope of Chatsworth Peak, unincorporated Ventura County. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Rex Frankel. Under consideration: price and terms. (This matter may be heard in closed session pursuant to Government Code Section 54856.8.) [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 6/4/2014; [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 5/7/2014

WEST HILLS: acceptance of a donation of APNs 2031-015-001 and 2031-001-006 totaling 22.8 acres, with partial consideration of agency campground use for the Girl Scouts of America, El Escorpion Canyon, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 6/4/2014

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SANTA CLARITA VALLEY:

comment letter to Los Angeles County on Notice of Preparation for the 3600 home Newhall Ranch-Homestead South project (vtt Map No. 060678), on 2535 acres near the Santa Clara River, unincorporated Santa Clarita area. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] SMMC 7/28/2014

acceptance of an approximately 2.69-acre conservation easement and processing funds over portions of APNs 2836-003-010, 017, 018, 019, 2836-002-038, and 047 in Soledad Canyon, Santa Clarita. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 7/2/2014; [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Map] MRCA 5/7/2014

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AGUA DULCE:

Project Agreement for the 118 acre Agua Dulce – State Route 14 Wildlife Corridor Project, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 12/4/2013

acquire APN 3212-004-017 approximately 5.8 acres in Agua Dulce Canyon, immediately northwest of Agua Dulce Road and 14 FWY interchange, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/2/2014

acquire parcels totaling 40.88 acres in the northeast corner of the Agua Dulce Canyon Road and State Route 14 Interchange, APNs 3212-004-010 and 014, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 5/7/2014

acquisition of Agua Dulce Canyon Wildlife corridor parcels, incorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] SMMC 8/25/2014 (mentions that another 56 acres west of Agua Dulce Road was purchased by MRCA in June 2014)

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SAN GABRIEL MOUNTAINS, EAST SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, VERDUGO MOUNTAINS AND SAN RAFAEL HILLS:

Arroyo Seco Bike and Pedestrian Trail. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] SMMC 2/24/2014

transfer of a conservation easement over Whitebird/Canyon Hills housing tract’s open space from the MRCA to the Desert and Mountain Conservation Authority (DMCA) and simultaneous transfer of fee ownership from DMCA to the MRCA, over the following APNs: 2401-032-003, 005, 006, 007, and 008; 2401-034-003; 2561-007-007, 010, 012, 013, 016, 018, 019, 021, and 022; 2545-018-002, 004, and 005; 2546-010-009; 2561-009-005, 006, 007, 010, 012, 013, 015, and 016; 2561-031-004; 2561-033-001, 002, and 003; 2562-003-012 (portion) and 015; 2562-004-006 (portion), 008, 011, and 014; 2562-005-003, 004, 006, and 007; and 2562-006-005 and 008, La Tuna Canyon, Verdugo Mountains, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 10/2/2013

Consideration of resolution authorizing a professional services contract with MIG, Inc., for design services for the Pacoima Wash Greenway - El Dorado Park project. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 11/6/2013

constructing trails on the La Viña dedication, Altadena. [Staff Report] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] MRCA 1/15/2014; [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] [Attachment] SMMC 1/27/2014

engineering and design services for the Lopez Canyon Park improvement project. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] MRCA 2/5/2014

acceptance of conservation easements totaling approximately 42 acres surrounding portions of housing Tract in San Gabriel Canyon, City of Azusa, Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 8/6/2014

comment letter to the City of Los Angeles on the 1.6 acre, 8 home proposed project at 5370 Mount Royal Drive (case no. TT-71245), on the south slope of the San Rafael Hills south of the 134 freeway, City of Los Angeles. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] SMMC 4/28/2014

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VENTURA COUNTY:

734 acre purchase: grant to The Nature Conservancy for the acquisition of the Alamos Canyon habitat linkage property either side of the 118 freeway, incorporated and unincorporated Simi Valley area. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] [Map 4] SMMC 2/24/2014

Presentation on lesser known inter-mountain range habitat linkages in the Ventura County portion of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Zone, Callegus Creek, and Santa Clara River [Presentation] SMMC 7/28/2014

comment letter to the City of Camarillo on the Recirculated Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Conejo Creek Specific (development) Plan (on southeast corner of city). [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] [Attachment] SMMC 8/25/2014

acceptance of a conservation easement over APN's 500-0-291-455, 500-0-291-475, 637-0-070-340 and maintenance funding, Arroyo Simi, City of Simi Valley. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Map] MRCA 7/2/2014

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ASSORTED:

Presentation on locations of protected and actually constructed Rim of the Valley Trail alignment and alignment adaptations. [Staff Report] SMMC 4/28/2014 (report presented orally)

SMMC-MRCA 8/26/2013 to 9/23/2013

Developments and Park Purchases in the L.A. and Ventura County Mountains

From park agency agendas for July to September of 2013

SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS:

comment letter to the City of Los Angeles on the Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for the Harvard-Westlake School Parking Improvement Plan Project (env-2013-0150-eir), 3700-3701 N. Coldwater Canyon Avenue, Studio City. [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Attachment 5] [Comment Letter] SMMC 9/23/2013

comment letter to the City of Los Angeles on Revised Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Curtis School Project (env-2009-836-mnd), 15871 and 15801 Mulholland Drive and 15800 and 15850 Mulholland Place, Encino.  [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Attachment 5] [Attachment 6] [Attachment 7] [Attachment 8] [Attachment 9] [REVISED Comment Letter] SMMC 9/23/2013

establishment of a Mulholland Scenic Parkway Core Trail Fund and entering into agreements with the City of Los Angeles regarding said fund. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] MRCA 9/4/2013

acceptance of 54.4 acre open space dedication in the Triunfo Canyon watershed associated with PM 071223, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Map] MRCA 9/4/2013

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SIMI VALLEY:

Consideration of resolution authorizing a comment letter to the City of Simi Valley regarding All Valley RV Storage project, cp-s-591-mod#1, Arroyo Simi and Alamos Canyon. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] SMMC 8/26/2013

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SIMI HILLS:

comment letter on NASA Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Proposed Demolition and Environmental Cleanup Activities at Santa Susana Field Laboratory, Ventura County. [ [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment] ] SMMC 9/23/2013

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SANTA SUSANA MOUNTAINS:

comment letter to United States Army Corps of Engineers regarding the proposed Hidden Creeks Residential Development Project (Application No. SPL-2013-00425-AOA) in Browns and Mormon Canyons, unincorporated County of Los Angeles. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Attachment 5] [Map 1] [Map 2] SMMC 9/23/2013

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LOS ANGELES RIVER:

Presentation by United States Army Corps of Engineers on the Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study. [Staff Report] [ACE Presentation] SMMC 9/23/2013

Another Step in Completing L.A. Loop Trail

City Kicks in $$ for Major Link in L.A. Parks Loop

On Last Tuesday night (July 9th), Santa Clarita's city council OK'd $2.6 million out of a total price of $4.6 million for most of the former Las Lomas development site. The 302 acres is part of a 550 acre 5000 home proposal that was considered but then rejected by L.A.'s City Council 5 years ago. The land is the connector between the Angeles National Forest/San Gabriel Mountains and the Santa Susana Mountains. Along with the Simi Hills, Verdugo Mountains and Santa Monica Mountains, both large chunks and narrow corridors in these ranges have been assembled together into the Rim of the Valley Corridor park system over the last 40 years by parks agencies.

To complete this deal, another $2 million is being sought from the State and L.A. County parks funds.

Details from the Council agenda:
http://apps.santa-clarita.com/agendas/CouncilItemPrint.aspx?ID=6826

For past stories from our site:
http://rare-earth-news.blogspot.com/search?q=Las+Lomas

Maps of the Rim of the Valley parks:
http://www.modernhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/RimValleyMap.jpg

http://www.nps.gov/pwro/rimofthevalley/studyarea.htm

applications to the CalTrans Environmental Enhancement Mitigation Program grant program for:

City of Santa Clarita’s 300 acre Gateway Ranch purchase project; [Resolution A] [Map A]

[Staff Report] SMMC 12/3/2012

(Parcel to be purchased is in blue--click on map to enlarge)

SMMC-MRCA 2/6/2013 to 4/3/2013

SMMC AND MRCA LAND PURCHASES AND DEVELOPMENT BATTLES FOR FEBRUARY-APRIL 2013

...from the agendas of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority

TOPANGA:

Project Agreement with the Los Angeles County Regional Parks and Open Space District for the Summit Valley - Mulholland Gateway Park Gap Closure Project, Topanga Canyon watershed, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 3/6/2013

project planning and design grant for the upper Topanga watershed project, Santa Monica Mountains, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

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MALIBU AND L.A. COUNTY PORTION OF SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS:

acquisition of 31 lots in an unincorporated area of Escondido Canyon totaling approximately 98 acres. [Staff Report] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Resolution] MRCA 2/6/2013

acquisition of 31 parcels totaling 86 acres in Escondido Canyon, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map 1] [Map 2] SMMC 2/25/2013

acquisition of APNs 4461-035-001 and 004, Escondido Canyon, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] MRCA 2/6/2013 --adds in 2 parcels left out of 11/7/2012 resolution for 98 acres total

acquisition of APNs 4453-020-008 and 4453-016-008 totaling approximately 27 acres in the Carbon Canyon watershed, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 2/6/2013

public access improvements to Las Tunas Beach, City of Malibu. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] [Map 2] MRCA 2/6/2013

comment letter to California Coastal Commission regarding Cease and Desist Order Amendment No. CCC-09-CD-01-A, Lisette Ackerberg Trust, including for beach access easements, 22466 and 22500 Pacific Coast Highway, Carbon Beach, City of Malibu. [Staff Report] [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Map 1] [Map 2] MRCA 3/6/2013

Staff Report] [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Map 1] [Map 2] SMMC 2/25/2013

acceptance of a coastal access easement over a portion of the property located at 22548 Pacific Coast Highway, City of Malibu. [Map] [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 4/3/2013

project planning and design grant for the Escondido to Ramirez Canyon habitat and trail linkage project, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

project planning and design grant for the Little Sycamore to Encinal Canyon Coastal Slope trail zone project, Santa Monica Mountains, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

project planning and design grant for the upper Malibu Canyon tributaries project, Santa Monica Mountains, unincorporated Los Angeles County and cities of Calabasas and Agoura Hills. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

acquisition of APN 4465-004-045 and 4465-004-084 in the Ramirez Canyon watershed, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

comment letter to the City of Malibu regarding 24024 Malibu Road Project. [Comment Letter] [Attachment] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Attachment 5] [Attachment 6] [Attachment 7] [Resolution] [Attachment 8] [Attachment 9] SMMC 2/25/2013

[Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Attachment 5] [Attachment 6] [Attachment 7] [Attachment 8] [Attachment 9] [Map] SMMC 3/18/2013

(a) acceptance of proceeds from the Estate of Edith Carrillo for the acquisition of public parkland and (b) entering into an agreement with the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority to complete the acquisition and take title to the property. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] SMMC 2/25/2013

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INLAND SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS:

comment letter to the City of Calabasas on 17 acre project and Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration, 23401 Mulholland Highway, Dry Creek Canyon watershed. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Map] SMMC 2/25/2013

[Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Map] [Map 2] SMMC 3/18/2013

comment letter to Los Angeles County regarding the Canyon at Triunfo project, 3324 and 3272 Triunfo Canyon Road, SCH No. 2012111061, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Map 1] [Map 2] SMMC 2/25/2013

acquisition of APNs 2063-004-023, 024 and 025 totaling approximately 525 acres in the Triunfo Canyon watershed, unincorporated Los Angeles County and entering into a Project Agreement with the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District for said parcels. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 2/6/2013

[Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] SMMC 2/25/2013

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L.A. CITY PORTION OF SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS:

acquisition of APN 2076-017-025 totaling approximately 5.3 acres in Woodland Hills using funds from Santa Monica Mountains Open Space Preservation Assessment District No.2. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Kristine Dekreon. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to § 54956.8 of the Government Code.) [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 2/6/2013

acquisition of APNs 2172-028-027, 028, 029 totaling approximately 0.5 acres in Woodland Hills using funds from Santa Monica Mountains Open Space Preservation Assessment District No. 2. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Shawna and Arnold Verbiesen. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to § 54956.8 of the Government Code.) [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] [Map 2] MRCA 2/6/2013

acquire APN 2274-018-014 totaling approximately 1.6 acres in Sherman Oaks. [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 2/6/2013

acceptance of a conservation easement over an approximately 0.01-acre portion of APN 5570-024-011, near Briar Summit Open Space Preserve, Nichols Canyon, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] MRCA 3/6/2013

acceptance of a conservation easement over an approximately 0.3-acre portion of APN 2381-028-005 (2971 Laurel Canyon Boulevard), Berry Canyon, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Attachment 2] [Map] MRCA 3/6/2013

project planning and design grant for the Mulholland Drive Scenic Corridor, Santa Monica Mountains, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

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SANTA SUSANA MOUNTAINS AND SIMI HILLS:

acceptance of a donation of 18.9 acres, APN 2821-011-017, adjacent to Rocky Peak Park, unincorporated Chatsworth area. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 3/6/2013

project planning and design grant for the Browns Canyon watershed project, Santa Susana Mountains, Chatsworth area. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

project planning and design grant for the Sage Ranch to Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park habitat linkage project, Simi Hills, unincorporated Ventura and Los Angeles counties. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

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EAST SAN FERNANDO VALLEY:

San Gabriel Mountains Rim of the Valley Trail implementation and Angeles National Forest trail and habitat connections project. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

acquisition of APN 2581-013-005 for $27,500, 2.51 acres, using in lieu mitigation funds, Lopez Canyon, unincorporated Los Angeles County. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Linda Caine-Alderman Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to § 54956.8 of the Government Code.) [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

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VENTURA COUNTY:

project planning and design grant for the Alamos Canyon habitat and trail linkage project, Santa Susana Mountains, Ventura County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 4/3/2013

Memorandum of Understanding with the Ventura County Watershed Protection District for planning and coordination of land acquisition and restoration projects. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] MRCA 4/3/2013

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ASSORTED AREAS:

comment letter to Los Angeles County regarding December 2012 Draft Hillside Management Area Ordinance. [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] SMMC 2/25/2013

comment letter to County of Los Angeles on Draft Significant Ecological Area Ordinance. [Staff Report] [Resolution] SMMC 3/18/2013

SMMC-MRCA 12/3/2012 to 1/9/2013

Settlement of Malibu Parks Campsite Battle Includes a Swap of two Large Parks Between Warring Government Agencies

Camping is to be allowed at Charmlee park further inland, not at coast-front Malibu Bluffs park, in order to settle a lawsuit between the City of Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy. The City and SMMC will trade ownership of the two parks as part of the deal. For the last several years these agencies have feuded over the SMMC's plans to make its parks more accessible to active public use, which has aroused worries over brushfire dangers from camping.

DETAILS:

[Staff Report] [Map] [Attachment] SMMC 1/7/2013

[Staff Report][Map] [Attachment] SMMC 1/7/2013

Charmlee Park--construction of one supervised ADA-accessible campsite, not more than seven supervised standard campsites, and related improvements in that portion of Charmlee Wilderness Park located in unincorporated Los Angeles County. Consideration of this item contingent upon Governing Board approval of settlement of pending litigation: Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority v. City of Malibu, and related actions, Case No. SC 092212. [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] [Staff Report] [Attachment] [Attachment 2] MRCA 1/7/2013

[Staff Report] [Map] [Map 2] [Map 3] [Attachment 17] SMMC 1/7/2013

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AND OTHER PARKS PURCHASE NEWS:

FEDS RECOMMEND EXPANSION OF SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK TO INCLUDE OTHER MOUNTAIN RANGES:

--comment letter to the National Park Service on Rim of the Valley Corridor Study Update. [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Attachment 4] [Comment Letter] [Resolution] [Attachment 5] SMMC 12/3/2012

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2011/2012 Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Annual Report [Staff Report] [Annual Report] SMMC 1/7/2013

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VERDUGO MOUNTAINS:

La Tuna Canyon --acceptance of APNs totaling approximately 259 acres from the Desert and Mountain Conservation Authority and approximately 311 acres from Whitebird Holdings in La Tuna Canyon, on both sides of the 210 Freeways, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] MRCA 12/5/2012

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SIMI HILLS:

West Hills --acceptance of a donation of APNs 2017-014-011, 2017-014-012, 2017-014-013, 2017-014-014, 2017-014-015, 2017-014-016, 2017-014-018, and 2017-014-019 totaling 1.14 acres and paying back taxes with in-lieu mitigation fees, Dayton Canyon area of West Hills, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] [Map 2] MRCA 12/5/2012

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SANTA CLARITA VALLEY:

Ex-Las Lomas project--applications to the CalTrans Environmental Enhancement Mitigation Program grant program for:

City of Santa Clarita’s 300 acre Gateway Ranch purchase project; [Resolution A] [Map A]

[Staff Report] SMMC 12/3/2012

Towsley Canyon--acquisition of remaining interest in Towsley Canyon apn’s 2826-018-900 and 066; -901 and 067; -902 and 068; 2826-019-901 and 040, and -902 and 041; Santa Clarita Woodlands, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] SMMC 12/3/2012

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LA CITY PORTION OF SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS:

acceptance of a conservation easement over an approximately 4-acre portion of APN 5549-003-004 (2775 North Cahuenga Boulevard), Mulholland Drive Scenic Corridor, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Map] MRCA 12/5/2012

Nichols Canyon--acceptance of a conservation easement over an approximately 0.10-acre portion of APN 5569-002-003 (2630 Harlesden Court), Mulholland Drive Scenic Corridor, Nichols Canyon, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] MRCA 12/5/2012

Laurel Canyon--approval of an option agreement and payments for the Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Mulholland Drive property, City of Los Angeles. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Lawrence Lazar. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to Section 54956.8 of the Government Code.) [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 12/5/2012

Laurel Canyon--acceptance of a conservation easement over portions of APNs 5567-006-024 and 025 (including 2234, 2240 and 2244 Stanley Hills Drive), Laurel Canyon watershed, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map 1] [Map 2] MRCA 1/9/2013

Hollywood--Consideration of resolution authorizing support of applications to the CalTrans Environmental Enhancement Mitigation Program grant program for:

Franklin Ivar project. [Resolution D] [Map D]]

 [Staff Report] SMMC 12/3/2012

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MALIBU AND SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS:

Malibu Lake area--applications to the CalTrans Environmental Enhancement Mitigation Program grant program for purchase of 47.5 acres [Resolution C] [Map C], [Staff Report] SMMC 12/3/2012

[Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 12/5/2012

Topanga--acquire apn 4444-030-010 in the Topanga Canyon watershed, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] SMMC 12/3/2012

acceptance of the offers to dedicate scenic easements and/or open space easements associated with Coastal Development Permit Nos. 5-91-438 (Pourrahimi), 5-90-1059 (Trucks), 587-458 & 5-87-458-A (Bernstein), 5-91-834 (O’Leary), and 5-90-335 & 5-90-335-A (Ketcham), incorporated and unincorporated Malibu. [Staff Report] [Resolution] Latigo Canyon--[Map 1] Saddle Peak-Piuma Rd: [Map 2] Fernwood/Topanga: [Map 3] MRCA 12/5/2012

Malibu Civic Center area--Consideration of resolution authorizing: (a) entering into an agreement to release MRCA from existing obligation to design and construct an access road, and (b) a grant of construction easement for said access road to the owners of properties adjacent to MRCA parkland (APN 4452-025-900) on Sweetwater Mesa, City of Malibu. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 1/9/2013

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RAMIREZ CANYON IN MALIBU:

construction of two supervised, ADA-accessible campsites to be closed annually between September 15 and January 15, a portion of the Coastal Slope Trail, and related improvements in Ramirez Canyon Park and adjacent public parkland; all such improvements to be located in unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] [Map 4] [Map 5] [Map 6] [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 1/7/2013

[Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] [Map 4] [Map 5] [Map 6] SMMC 1/7/2013

acquisition of conservation and trail easements over APN 4467-002-002 using Coastal Habitat Impact Mitigation Fund, entering into an agreement to receive fee title to APN 4467-002-002 in the future, and acceptance of trail and conservation easements over APN 4467-003-021, Ramirez Canyon, City of Malibu. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] [Map 2] MRCA 12/5/2012

acquire apns 4465-004-045 and 4465-004-084 in the Ramirez Canyon Watershed, unincorporated Los Angeles County.* [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] [Map] SMMC 12/3/2012

acquire a conservation and trail easement over apn 4467-002-002, Ramirez Canyon, City of Malibu. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] SMMC 12/3/2012

applications to the CalTrans Environmental Enhancement Mitigation Program grant program for:

Ramirez Canyon; [Resolution B [Map B

[Staff Report] SMMC 12/3/2012

SMMC-MRCA 9/18/2012 to10/29/2012

Park Island in Topanga finally to connect to rest of park system

and 98 acre purchase in West Malibu

from the agendas of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority

SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS:

Topanga Summit Valley – Mulholland Gateway Gap Closure Project [Staff Report] [Map] SMMC 10/29/2012
This will connect the Viewridge trail which runs through the Summit Valley park to the north and eventually reaching the much large Topanga State Park

To access this new link, drive east on Mulholland Highway until it turns into a dirt road, and follow it until it ends at a parking area where Mulholland intersects with Santa Maria Road. From here, hike west along the ridgeline to a large water tank. On the map below, the trail is yellow and the water tank is a pale green triangle between the large dark green parcels.

(click on photos to enlarge)

Escondido Canyon—West Malibu--entering into a Project Agreement with the Los Angeles County Regional Parks and Open Space District for the Escondido Creek small lots project adjacent to Latigo Canyon Road, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 10/29/2012

98 acre purchase in Escondido Canyon--acquisition of APNs 4461-001-011, 4461-035-003, 4461-035-005, 4461-036-032, 4461-036-033, 4461-036-031, 4461-036-034, 4461-036-044, 4461-036-030, 4461-036-035, 4461-036-029, 4461-036-036, 4461-036-028, 4461-036-037, 4461-036-027, 4461-036-038, 4461-036-026, 4461-036-039, 4461-036-040, 4461-036-025, 4461-036-041, 4461-036-024, 4461-036-042, 4461-036-023, 4461-036-043, 4461-036-022, 4461-034-001, 4461-036-021, 4461-036-020, 4461-036-019, and 4465-004-021, comprising 98 acres in Escondido Canyon, unincorporated Los Angeles County. Negotiators: Rorie A. Skei and Norm Haynie. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to Section 54956.8 of the Government Code). [Staff Report] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Resolution] MRCA 10/29/2012

West Malibu--acquisition of Ramirez Canyon properties, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Map] [Staff Report] MRCA 10/3/2012

West Malibu--authorizing the use of Coastal Habitat Impact Mitigation Funds towards the acquisition of APNs 4465-004-045 and 4465-004-084 in the Ramirez Canyon watershed, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] MRCA 10/3/2012

Sherman Oaks--comment letter to the City of Los Angeles on the Curtis School Project at 15800 West Mulholland Drive and its Mitigated Negative Declaration (env-2012-836-mnd). [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] [Map 1] [Map 2] [Map 3] [Staff Report] Comment Letter] [Map 4] [Map 5] [Attachment 3] SMMC 10/29/2012

Hollywood--professional services contract with Mia Lehrer + Associates for the 0.83 acres Franklin/Ivar Park project. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Attachment] MRCA 9/18/2012

Bel Air--acceptance of a dedication of an approximately 25-acre conservation easement over portions of APN 4377-002-039 (1400 Linda Flora Drive), Hoag Canyon, City of Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Attachment] [Map] MRCA 10/3/2012

Franklin Canyon--acceptance of fee title to, or a multi-use trail easement over, all or a portion of APN 4387-020-001, adjacent to Franklin Canyon Park, Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Map] MRCA 10/3/2012

multiple beach accessways in City of Malibu: thirteen sites located at Carbon Beach, La Costa Beach, Las Flores Beach, Las Tunas Beach, Escondido Beach, Lechuza Beach, and Malibu Cove Beach. [Staff Report] MRCA 10/3/2012

Laurel Canyon--entering into an option agreement on APNs 5565-003-036, 037, 039, 040, and 041 and making said option payments, Laurel Canyon, City of Los Angeles. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Cheri Savage. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to Section 54956.8 of the Government Code.) [Map] [Staff Report] MRCA 10/3/2012

Sherman Oaks--entering into an option agreement on APN 2274-018-014 and making said option payments, Sherman Oaks, City of Los Angeles. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Derek Wiseman. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to Section 54956.8 of the Government Code.) [Map] [Staff Report] MRCA 10/3/2012

Corral Canyon--authorizing realignment of a publicly owned easement for ingress and egress over a portion of APN 4457-013-073, Corral Canyon, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 10/29/2012

Malibu Creek--application to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy for a grant of habitat restoration mitigation funds from Caltrans Basin Clearing Project, to restore 0.38 acres in the Malibu Creek watershed, and authorizing acceptance of said grant and funds. [Staff Report] MRCA 9/18/2012

Upper Malibu Canyon-Near Soka University--acceptance of the offer to dedicate trail easement associated with Coastal Development Permit No. 4-00-013 (Isbell), unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map 1] [Map 2] MRCA 9/18/2012

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SIMI HILLS:

grant application to the Wildlife Conservation Board for the acquisition of Liberty Canyon wildlife corridor expansion parcels on the north and south side of the 101 Freeway, unincorporated Los Angeles County. [Staff Report] [Attachment ] [Map] [Attachment 2] SMMC 10/29/2012

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SAN RAFAEL HILLS:

grant to the City of La Cañada Flintridge for visitor-serving park improvements at the Ultimate Destination Park in Cherry Canyon, La Cañada Flintridge. [Staff Report] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] SMMC 9/24/2012

grant to the City of La Cañada Flintridge for Flint Wash Trail improvements. [Staff Report] [Attachment 1] [Attachment 2] SMMC 10/29/2012

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VENTURA COUNTY:

comment letter to the City of Camarillo on Conejo Creek Wildlife Corridor. [Attachment] [Map] [Map 2] [Attachment 2] [Comment Letter] SMMC 9/24/2012. [Staff Report] MRCA 9/18/2012

execution of grant agreement with, and acceptance of grant funds from, California Department of Fish and Game to conduct weed management at Tierra Rejada Vernal Pool Preserve, City of Moorpark, Ventura County. [Staff Report] [Resolution] MRCA 10/29/2012

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SAN GABRIEL MOUNTAINS:

Millard Canyon--grant to the Arroyos and Foothills Conservancy for acquisition of apns 5863-006-001, 5863-005-008,5863-007-003,5863-007-002, Millard Canyon, Altadena. [Staff Report] [Attachment] [Map] SMMC 9/24/2012

Big Tujunga Wash--grant of a conservation easement over APN 2552-002-900 in the Big Tujunga Wash to the Desert and Mountain Conservation Authority. [Staff Report] [Map] MRCA 10/3/2012

Big Tujunga Canyon--amendment to resolution No. 12-80 addressing the acquisition of APNs 2551-002-004 and 005 in the Big Tujunga Canyon watershed, Sunland. Negotiators: Joseph T. Edmiston and Cheri Savage. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to Section 54956.8 of the Government Code.) [Map 1] [Map 2] MRCA 10/3/2012

Pacoima Wash Mountain Bikeway Project. [Staff Report] SMMC 10/29/2012

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SANTA CLARITA--NORTH L.A. COUNTY:

comment letter to the County of Los Angeles on the six proposed projects comprising the Silverado Power West Los Angeles County project, Antelope Valley, County of Los Angeles. [Maps] [Attachment] [Staff Report] [Map 2] [Comment Letter] SMMC 10/29/2012

application to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy for a grant of habitat restoration mitigation funds from Caltrans Santa Clara River impacts, to restore 1.4 acres and authorizing acceptance of said grant and funds. [Staff Report] MRCA 9/18/2012

Towsley Canyon park--application to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy for a grant of Proposition 40 funds for the purchase of remaining interest in Towsley Canyon parcels, and (b) authorizing purchase of remaining interest in APN’s 28260018-900 and 066; -901 and 067; -902 and 068; 2826-019-901 and 040, and -902 and 041. Negotiators: Rorie A. Skei and Malund E. Hale. Under consideration: price and terms. (This item may be heard in closed session pursuant to Section 54956.8 of the Government Code). [Staff Report] [Resolution] [Map] MRCA 10/29/2012

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CENTRAL & WEST L.A.

Ballona Creek--adopting Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Milton Street Park project, Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Attachment] [Staff Report] [Attachment] MRCA 9/18/2012

L.A. River--adopting Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Marsh Street Park project. [Staff Report] [Attachment 1A] [Attachment 1B] [Attachment 1C] [Attachment 1D] [Attachment 1E] [Attachment 2] [Attachment 3] [Staff Report] [Attachment] MRCA 9/18/2012

application to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy for a grant of habitat restoration mitigation funds from Caltrans Wendy/Borchard Project, restoration of 0.4 acres in L.A. River watershed, and authorizing acceptance of said grant and funds. [Staff Report] MRCA 9/18/2012

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EAST L.A. HILLS:

acceptance of a public access easement over a portion of APN 5304-017-048, located in Montecito Heights, Los Angeles. [Staff Report] [Map 1] [Map 2] MRCA 9/18/2012