The project consists of issuance of a Grading Permit that will authorize neutralizing of existing logging roads, constructing temporary access roads, and constructing approx 2.1 miles of new trails in support of the French Meadows Restoration Project. The Restoration Project is a partnership among Placer County, Placer County Water Agency, the U.S. Forest Service, the Nature Conservancy, and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy to improve ecological and watershed conditions and reduce the potential for severe wildfire impacts in the watershed.
Note: See NOE for full description.
French Meadows Reservoir and surrounding areas, TNF, approx 40 mi NE of Foresthill. Dolly Creek-Middle Fork American River watershed
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
15308
Reasons for Exemption
The project is consistent with CEQA Guidelines section 15308 (class 8 CEQA Categorical exemption: Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment) b/c it is an action authorized by the Placer County Grading Ordinance that will help assure the maintenance, restoration, enhancement, or protection of the environment, and the regulatory process involves procedures for protection of the environment. In addition, the project is consistent with SB 901. SB 901 provides that until Jan 1, 2023, CEQA would not apply to prescribed fire, thinning, or fuel reduction projects undertake on federal lands to reduce the risk of high-severity wildlife that have been reviewed under the NEPA. The NEPA Decision Notice for the French Meadows Restoration Project was signed by TNF Forest Supervisor Eli Ilano on Dec 12, 2018. The Statutory exemption established by SB 901 will be in effect on Jan 1, 2019.
