Bees Lakes Habitat Restoration Project Initial Study

Bees Lakes Habitat Restoration Project Initial Study

The proposed project includes implementing ecosystem, water quality and recreational improvements at the Bees Lakes site consistent with the goals and objectives identified in the Final Bees Lakes Habitat Restoration Plan. Project site restoration includes focused removal and control of target invasive species at the project site. The goal of the invasive plant removal is to significantly decrease abundance of target invasive species and increase abundance of native understory species to improve and sustain native plant community health and diversity. The most prevalent target invasive species are: Himalayan blackberry, which occurs in large patches in portions of the riparian forest understory and in some monoculture patches; and edible fig (Ficus carica), which is scattered throughout the site, primarily on the riverside portion. Water quality components include removing and disposing of potentially contaminated soil from the two ponds on the site, potentially treating the pond water, and the removal of trash from the ponds. An abandoned boat and a large amount of refuse have been observed in the ponds, which are suspected to be degrading pond water quality. At minimum, project implementation would include drawing down pond water levels temporarily to extract large trash and debris. The water quality components also include installing a submerged or floating aeration diffusion device to increase pond aeration and water circulation within the ponds, decrease algae growth, and increase habitat suitability for fishes and other aquatic life (including mosquito fish). An additional water quality enhancement, which would also provode habitat benefits, includes installing one or more artificial floating wetland islands in one or both of the site ponds. The proposed project includes several recreational components that are intended to improve access management at the site and to provide improved recreational opportunities for site users. Potential recreational amenities include marked foot trails, elevated boardwalks, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access ramps, an equestrian trail, a ten-stall parking area, portable bathrooms, two large viewing platforms, multi-purpose picnic/recreational areas, way-finding signage and information kiosks.

West Sacramento

Yolo