Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
10-27-20 Heritage Preservation Commission Agenda Packet
Page 1 of 3 HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING October 27, 2020 8:30 AM SPECIAL MEETING Participation Information: This hearing will be entirely by teleconference. All Heritage Preservation Commissioners and staff will participate via teleconference in compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order N‐29‐20 suspending certain teleconference rules required by the Ralph M. Brown Act. The purpose of this order was to provide the safest environment for the public, elected officials, and staff while allowing for continued operation of the government and public participation during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Members of the public can view and participate in Meeting by: 1.Using the Zoom website https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81492504483 or App (Webinar ID 814 9250 4483) and using the tool to raise their hand in the Zoom platform when directed by the Mayor to speak on an agenda item; OR 2.Calling 1.408.638.0968 or 1.669.900.6833, entering the Webinar ID 814 9250 4483 , and pressing *9 to raise their hand to speak on an agenda item when directed by the Chair. The public will not be able to participate in the meeting in person. Methods of viewing the meeting will be listed on the meeting agenda. The meeting is being conducted in compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order N‐29‐20 suspending certain teleconference rules required by the Ralph M. Brown Act. The purpose of this order was to provide the safest environment for the public, elected officials, and staff while allowing for continued operation of the government and public participation during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The public will not be able to participate in the meeting in person. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if you need assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact the City Clerk at debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as soon as possible before the meeting. The City will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety. Page 2 of 3 1. Site Visit(s) a. None 2. Call to Order 3. Roll Call- Alexandra Nugent, Annette Stransky, Dr. Jo Rodgers, and Rina Shah 4. Oral Communications Any member of the public may address the Commission about any matter not on the agenda for this meeting for up to three minutes. Commissioners may not comment on the matter but may choose to place the topic on a future agenda. 5. New Business 6. Staff Comments 7. Old Business a. Heritage Orchard Master Plan 8. Commission Items 9. Adjournment In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 868-1216 or dbretschneider@saratoga.ca.us. Requests must be made as early as possible and at least one full business day before the start of the meeting. Any recommendation made by the Heritage Preservation Commission may be appealed to the Planning Commission within ten (10) days of the date of the decision. The appeal shall be taken by filing with the Secretary of the Heritage Preservation Commission a written notice and filing fee within ten (10) days of the date of the decision. In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff report, and other materials provided to the Heritage Preservation Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda are available at the office of the Community Development Department Director at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California 95070. Any materials distributed by staff after the posting of the agenda are made available for public review at the office of the Director at the time they are distributed to the Heritage Preservation Commission. CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF AGENDA I, Nicole Johnson, Senior Planner, for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting of the Heritage Preservation Commission was posted and available for public review on October 23, 2020 Page 3 of 3 at the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070 and on the City’s website at www.saratoga.ca.us. Page 1 of 1 MEMORANDUM MEETING DATE: October 27, 2020 TO: Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) FROM: Nicole Johnson, Senior Planner SUBJECT: Item 7a-Heritage Orchard Master Plan Background As a part of the 2019/2020 HPC Workplan, the City Council directed the HPC to update the 2001 Heritage Orchard Master Plan. The HPC has since visited Heritage Orchards in Sunnyvale, Los Altos, and San Jose for research and did background research on Saratoga’s Orchard. A tour of the City’s Orchard with the HPC was conducted and meetings with the City Orchardist were held. HPC has been working on the Heritage Orchard Master Plan Update at nearly every regular meeting, in addition to several special meetings, since April 9, 2019. Staff has complied all the sections and updated accordingly with comments and suggestions from the Commissioners and the City Orchardist, for review in Attachment 1. Staff Recommendation Staff recommends that the HPC review the Heritage Orchard Master Plan update and forward a recommendation of approval to the City Council. Attachments: 1. 2020 Heritage Orchard Master Plan 3 Heritage Orchard Master Plan 4 Acknowledgments City Council Howard Miller Mayor Mary-Lynne Bernald Vice Mayor Rishi Kumar Council Member Yan Zhao Council Member Heritage Preservation Commission Alexandra Nugent Chair Rina Shah Vice Chair Dr. Jo Rodgers Commissioner Annette Stransky Commissioner Former HPC Members Marilyn Marchetti Chair (2019) City Staff James Lindsay City Manager Debbie Pedro Community Development Director John Cherbone Public Works Director Kate Bear City Arborist Nicole Johnson Senior Planner Original Document Prepared by : David Gates and Associates and Heritage Preservation Commission August 2001 Updated by: Heritage Preservation Commission October 2020 5 Table of Contents Vision Statement & Introduction 1 History 3 Review of 2001 Master Plan 5 2001 Master Plan Accomplishments 6 Objectives of the updated 2020 Orchard Master Plan 7 Existing Conditions, Issues, and Assumptions 8 Orchard Care and Maintenance 11 Recommendations for Implementation 13 Implementation of the 2020 Heritage Orchard Master Plan 15 Orchard Preservation Plan 16 Summary 17 Appendix 18 6 1 | Page Vision Statement “The vision for the Heritage Orchard is to preserve, in perpetuity, the rich agricultural history of Saratoga for the education, involvement and enjoyment of the community.” This vision statement builds upon the achievements of the previous Master Plan for preserving this scenic symbol of Saratoga’s agricultural history, as well as continuing to involve the residents of Saratoga in the unique life of a working orchard. Introduction The Heritage Orchard is the only park in the City of Saratoga that preserves and celebrates Saratoga’s rich agricultural history. The site is zoned R-1-20,000 and the General Plan Land Use designation is Open Space-Managed Resource Protection (OS-MR). It is recognized by the residents of Saratoga as a living jewel and community landmark. Historically the Heritage Orchard has also been known as Central Park. The working orchard is located at 13650 Saratoga Avenue on the Southwest corner of Saratoga Avenue and Fruitvale Avenue, south of the Saratoga Library. The site is bounded by Saratoga Avenue to the North, Fruitvale Avenue to the East, Wildcat Creek to the South, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School to the West. The land was purchased by the city in 1972 to construct the Saratoga Library and associated parking lot on 4.3 acres of the property. The orchard was designated as a City park in 1984 to preserve the important agricultural heritage of Saratoga. As development encroached on the last remaining orchards in Saratoga, this site was chosen to represent the important early history of Saratoga and the role orchards played as the economic backbone of the town during the period of Horticultural Development (1869-1906). It was preserved as a working orchard, growing apricots, cherries, and prunes, because it was one of the last remaining orchards in the City of Saratoga in the 1980s. The orchard was designated by the City of Saratoga as a Historic Landmark in 1988 (HP-88-01). 7 2 | Page Today, the Saratoga Heritage Orchard proudly stands as one of the last historic orchards in the Santa Clara valley. While the City of Saratoga General Plan 2040 continues to preserve the orchard under Section 6.4, Scenic Open Space Resources, Goal OSC-8, Saratoga residents savor the orchard’s beautiful setting, abundant fruit trees, community trail and annual Blossom Festival celebration. With an updated Heritage Orchard Master Plan, residents will benefit from new opportunities to participate in the preservation of this historic site. The Heritage Orchard was placed on the Heritage Resource Inventory (HRI) in 1984. With the assistance of David Gates and Associates, the Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) created a Master Plan in 2001 that addressed: orchard preservation, educational opportunities, maximizing the views of the orchard, minimizing intrusion of site improvements, maintaining the orchard, and implementing a tree adoption program. In March of 2019, the City Council asked the HPC to update the 2001 Master Plan for the Heritage Orchard. The HPC immediately began researching information, which included site visits to Heritage Orchards located in surrounding cities. The commission toured the Saratoga Heritage Orchard with the current Orchardist and the Community Development Director. They also held meetings with the Public Works Director and the Orchardist regarding orchard production and maintenance. The information contained in this report includes the history, vision, objectives and accomplishments of the 2001 Master Plan, key issues faced today and recommendations for updating the Heritage Orchard Master Plan for the continued success and protection of the Heritage Orchard using the best practices and standards of care used in the industry. This Master Plan is a working document which provides the community and its partners a guideline for operations, maintenance and development of the Heritage Orchard, while minimizing disruption and safeguarding the existing unique character and health of the orchard. 8 3 | Page History Santa Clara Valley consists of most of Santa Clara County and a small portion of San Benito County. The valley, named after Mission Santa Clara, was known as the “Valley of Heart’s Delight” from 1890 to the 1950s because of its high concentration of fruit orchards. The Heritage Orchard site was originally part of Quito Rancho. In the 1880s it was owned by the Marian family. The site was purchased by FC Cox in the 1920s, who farmed apricots and prunes for 30 years. In the 1950s, the land was owned and farmed by three generations of the Seagraves family. In 1900, Edwin Sidney (Everlasting Sunshine) Williams organized a citywide celebration when the two-year drought ended and called it the Blossom Festival. Wanting people to enjoy the blossoms of the orchards, invitations were issued as far away as San Francisco. Hundreds of attendees responded on foot, by stage, and by train. The day was filled with a parade, food, games, and a blossom and garden tour. Each succeeding year, the event grew in popularity with 20,000 attending one year. Due to its initial success, the Blossom Festival was held each year until WWII. At one time, the Santa Clara Valley produced one third of the world’s prunes. Saratoga had its share of contributions during this time, including Glen Una, the largest prune ranch, the Blossom Festival which ran for forty-one successive years, and inventions like the prune dipper by Luther Cunningham, whose company became FMC. The valley was the largest fruit producing and packing region in the world, with thirty-nine canneries. Innovations in the areas of planting, drying, canning, and care of fruit flourished. After WWII, as men and women returned from the war, high tech firms were attracted to California. Orchards were removed to make room for homes and factories, and in the 1960s the Valley of Heart’s Delight became known as Silicon Valley. In 1972, the City of Saratoga bought 11.3 acres to build the Saratoga Library. In 1973, the City purchased 4.2 more acres, and in 1977, an additional 2.6 acres were purchased. In 1984, the City approved the Department of Parks and Recreation Primary Record (DPR) survey written by the HPC and placed the orchard on the Heritage Resource Inventory. The DPR is a standard survey form used by the State of California’s Department of Parks & Recreation. This DPR referred to the site as Central Park Orchard. In 1986, a small sign was 9 4 | Page placed calling the land Central Park/Heritage Orchard. After that, the public began to use the name Heritage Orchard when referring to the site. As land began to be developed, builders looked to use the Heritage Orchard for other purposes, including soccer fields, a gymnasium, and more. The community was opposed to these new uses, and they voted in favor of preserving the orchard as a piece of living history. In October of 2000, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 00-049 to block changes to the orchard, with the expectation that the orchard would be “maintained in perpetuity.” The original Master Plan was then prepared by the HPC and David Gates & Associates before it was approved by the City Council in 2001. On April 3, 2002, the City Council approved Resolution 02-021 to remove specific trees from the orchard. In 2005, a gravel trail was added through the orchard connecting City Hall with the Saratoga Library. The trail has been used extensively by Redwood Middle School students. Between 2000 and 2007, the orchard was the site for the Mustard Fair. In 2013, the festival resumed and was renamed the Blossom Festival in honor of the original festival’s name in 1900. The festival continues to this day as the community celebrates and draws visitors from all over the valley. If an agricultural structure is added to the site in the future, it will complete the setting of a typical orchard of the 1900s. 10 5 | Page Review of 2001 Master Plan The 2001 Heritage Orchard Plan provided an overview of the history and makeup of the Central Park Heritage Orchard, as well as guidelines for renovating the orchard and recommendations for its future use. The Plan included six goals: 1. Preserve the orchard as a functioning agrarian entity or enterprise. 2. Provide educational opportunities to learn about agricultural history in the area and orchard management and operations. 3. Maximize views of the orchard from the surrounding area to ensure the orchard is an important part of the community’s image. 4. Minimize intrusion of site improvements into the orchard that may disrupt orchard maintenance operations or impact the ‘natural appearance’ of the orchard. 5. Ensure the orchard is maintained in optimum health by implementing necessary orchard maintenance and replacement programs. 6. Implement a Tree Adoption Program. In the 2001 Master Plan, the HPC recommended the City replace any dead or declining trees. The Master Plan called for the immediate replacement of 298 trees that were either dead or missing and 154 that were declining. At the time the Master Plan was created, the Heritage Orchard included some native oaks and other, non-orchard trees. The HPC recommended the City retain these trees due to their historic relationship to the orchard, noting that only “orchard trees” (fruit) would be planted in the future. The HPC expressed concern for the impact of pedestrian traffic through the orchard and recommended that any pedestrian paths be “hard-packed, dirt paths” that would be created and maintained on a yearly basis. The HPC recommended a spray irrigation system be developed in a “disking pattern” between the tree rows. It was recommended that the system not only make use of the local metered water, but also explore the creation of a sustainable well system that included a “booster pump or holding tank system.” It was determined that a feasibility test would be needed to confirm the viability of a well at this site. The following four HPC recommendations were not implemented, but are still recommended for accomplishment as soon as possible: 1. Construct an orchard maintenance/educational program “barn” on the eastern portion of the site. 2. Promote community involvement. 3. Implement a Tree Adoption Program. 4. Install a prominent sign at the corner of Fruitvale and Saratoga Avenues, to identify 11 6 | Page the location of the Heritage Orchard. The proposed Master Plan of 2001 implementation was divided into two phases: • Phase One: Several capital improvements, including the removal of dead/declining trees, determining the feasibility of a well, and designing an irrigation system. • Phase Two: Planting bare root trees, constructing a well, and installing an irrigation system. 2001 Master Plan Accomplishments 1. Provided a Master Plan documenting objectives. 2. Preserved the orchard through City Council resolution. 3. Created a pedestrian path connecting City Hall with the Library. 4. Installed a permanent irrigation system in the orchard. 5. Installed a well with a booster pump for irrigation water supply. 12 7 | Page Objectives of the updated 2020 Orchard Master Plan Preserve & Protect 1. Preserve the 13.9-acre orchard as a working, productive orchard to engage and educate the community on Saratoga’s agricultural heritage. 2. Protect the orchard in perpetuity. 3. Provide guidelines for the proper stewardship and best agricultural practices of the orchard. Maintain 1. Maintain and improve the orchard’s optimum health. 2. Ensure there is minimal intrusion of the site and orchard when improvements are made to ensure no disruption to orchard maintenance and little impact on the orchard’s natural appearance. 3. Maximize views of the orchard from the surrounding area to ensure the orchard is an important part of the community image. Educate 1. Encourage and provide educational opportunities and events for others to learn about the agricultural history of the area and pursue avenues for community involvement. 2. Install prominent signage on the corner of Saratoga Avenue and Fruitvale Avenue, as well as signage within the orchard. 3. Incorporate an agricultural structure(s) for community education and engagement. Outreach 1. Develop an outreach program to surrounding communities with heritage orchards in order to share ideas. 2. Foster and encourage a network program with other heritage orchards, orchard preservation programs, and create an Orchard Advisory Group. 3. Generate interest through social media and conventional media outlets. Harvesting of Fruit 1. The City should continue to collaborate with non-profit volunteer organizations that work to provide food for people in need to harvest the fruit. In addition, fruit will be harvested at community picking events and as a part of the adopt a tree program. 13 8 | Page Grants 1. Seek out grant opportunities for building soil, providing habitats as part of the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program and irrigation repair/improvements. Existing Conditions, Issues, and Assumptions Preservation of the Orchard • Existing Conditions: The Heritage Orchard is the only park in the City of Saratoga that preserves and celebrates Saratoga’s rich agricultural history. The site is zoned R-1- 20,000 and the Land Use designation is Open Space-Managed Resource Protection (OS-MR). • Issues: The public has limited knowledge of the orchard and is not engaged in its preservation. The City of Saratoga General Plan makes no mention of the Heritage Orchard Master Plan and there is a need to explore additional legal protections to ensure preservation of the orchard. • Assumptions: The orchard will be secured for future generations. There will be outreach programs and events, such as the Blossom Festival, to engage the public and gain their continued appreciation of the land usage and history. Size and Use of the Orchard • Existing Conditions: The orchard is composed of approximately 13.9 acres and consists of fruit trees. • Issues: Any use, such as educational opportunities, community events, marketing efforts, and campaigns, could impact the health of the trees and the harvesting and distribution/sale of the fruit. • Assumptions: Decisions to place structures in the orchard, or community uses of the orchard, will consider the impact these changes might have on the current health or the future number of trees in the orchard. The site survey will be updated to represent the boundary and trees within the orchard. Inventory of Trees • Existing Conditions: Approximately 1,400 fruit trees grow in the orchard, consisting of apricot, prunes, and cherry trees. There are some mature coast live oak trees growing among the fruit trees. • Issues: The non-orchard, oak trees and other tree types may provide habitat for wildlife in the area. These non-orchard trees may be threatening the health of the fruit-bearing orchard trees. 14 9 | Page • Assumptions: When a non-orchard tree dies or needs to be removed, it will be replaced with an orchard tree. The City will continue annual thinning and caring for all non-orchard trees. Irrigation • Existing Conditions: There is currently a well in the orchard which is used to irrigate the trees. An above-ground sprinkler system is also installed. • Issues: The current system is inadequate. • Assumptions: An updated irrigation system will be installed, such as a system to support the new soil building strategy. Climate and Air Quality • Existing Conditions: Due to climate change, the area will continue to see warmer days and drier conditions. • Issues: Air quality is a concern, for both trees and visitors. • Assumptions: Climate and air quality will be considered when planning for the continued health of the trees and when timing educational activities and events in the orchard. Soil Conditions • Existing Conditions: The soil in the orchard is Sandy Loam soil. Weeds are managed with mowing and manual weed whacking. • Issues: The quality of the soil in the orchard is impacted by climate, human and animal interactions, fertilizers, water, and conservation efforts. • Assumptions: An evaluated and annually updated maintenance plan will be implemented and followed. Pathways • Existing Conditions: There is currently one path of travel into the orchard, from the southern corner of the orchard at Fruitvale Avenue, to the library. • Issues: The current path, along with any additional paths taking visitors to a future structure, may impact the health of the orchard. • Assumptions: Pedestrian paths in the orchard will have minimal impact on the natural appearance of the orchard and will not interfere with maintenance. Wildlife and Domesticated Animals 15 10 | Page • Existing Conditions: The existing orchard provides a habitat for a variety of local wildlife, including coyotes, deer, bobcats, raccoons, skunks, opossums, birds, squirrels, and gophers. • Issues: Wildlife can cause problems for the trees and their fruit. • Assumptions: Proper precautions will be used to deter unwanted wildlife at all times with an ongoing abatement plan. Signs will be placed to support the City’s requirement for pets to remain on a leash. Security • Existing Conditions: The orchard is not fenced. • Issues: When fruit is removed by pedestrians from the orchard, it decreases the amount of fruit available and could cause damage to the trees. People walking off the paths and taking the fruit could damage the trees and the soil. • Assumptions: Programs and signage will be introduced to educate the public on the best practices of harvesting the fruit. Adjacent Properties • Existing Conditions: The site is bounded by Saratoga Avenue to the North, Fruitvale Avenue to the East, Wildcat Creek to the South, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School to the West. • Issues: Any increased community involvement in the orchard could impact the surrounding properties. • Assumptions: A communication network with the adjacent properties will be adopted to ensure there are no event date conflicts. Structures • Existing Conditions: Currently, there are no structures for educational programs in the orchard. • Issues: The addition of a structure may impact the number of trees in the orchard. • Assumptions: With the addition of an appropriate agricultural structure, programs could be incorporated to promote education and the engagement of the community. Any structure will be placed in such a way as to minimize impact on orchard trees. Utilities • Existing Conditions: There are no public utilities in the orchard. • Issues: There are no public restrooms, other than those found in the library. People attending educational events will need restroom facilities. There is currently no drinkable water in the orchard for visitors participating in educational activities or events held in the orchard. 16 11 | Page • Assumptions: If an agricultural structure is added, there may eventually be public restrooms and utilities brought to the structure to support this addition. The HPC expects those managing the placement of any utility lines (water, sewer, electrical, etc.) will be mindful of the location so they will not impact the success and operations of the orchard. Signage • Existing Conditions: One small sign is located in the orchard with the name “Central Park Heritage Orchard”. • Issues: There is not adequate signage within the orchard. • Assumptions: Prominent signage will be added to the orchard educating the public on the history of the orchard and pet requirements. 17 12 | Page Orchard Care and Maintenance Tasks Per Month Task Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Prune Plums X X Plant Trees X Spray trees X X X X Thin Apricots X X Harvest Apricots X X Inspect Plums X X Prune Apricots X X Harvest Prunes X Prune Cherries X X Harvest Cherries X X Sow Cover Crop X Routine Tasks* X X X X X X X X X X X X * Routine Tasks (ongoing) – • Remove dead or diseased trees • Gopher and Ground Squirrel Trapping- weekly • Irrigation checks- weekly • Mowing/weed whacking- every 4-6 weeks (depending on cover crop) 18 13 | Page Recommendations for Implementation Orchard Care & Maintenance 1. Implement the orchard preservation plan using best agricultural practices. 2. Create a program to manage wildlife that may threaten trees. 3. Replace all dead/diseased trees accordingly. 4. Request City staff work with the orchardist to prepare quarterly reports and provide tours to the HPC regarding the health of trees based on annual orchard maintenance tasks, numbered tree records, new trees to be planted, and projects, such as new irrigation systems. 5. Implement a tree numbering system to keep better records on each tree and to assist when an “Adopt a Tree Program” is initiated. 6. Update the irrigation system. 7. Maintain existing paths and add paths in a mindful manner, especially if a new structure is installed, to ensure the health of the trees is not threatened. 8. Request Orchardist to work with the City to implement best management practices that ensure the health and longevity of the orchard through optimum orchard maintenance, tree replacement programs, and an accessible database that provides documentation of ongoing as well as planned maintenance and projects. 9. The Orchardist should provide quarterly reports to the HPC on the status of the Orchard. 10. Comply with the City’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan for weed and pest control. 11. Introduce soil nutrients and fertilization will be introduced when testing shows that it is necessary to properly care for the trees. A safe and effective weed control program should be utilized accordingly. 12. Ensure pedestrian access through the orchard will be limited to hard-packed, dirt paths created by dragging or rolling a disked area to create an even smoother surface. Paths will need to be recreated each year. 13. Periodically review and update policy and plans relevant to the care of the Orchard. Signage & Orchard Name 1. Install permanent signage with appropriate lighting on the corner of Saratoga Avenue and Fruitvale Avenue and at the corner on Saratoga Avenue closest to the Warner Hutton House. 2. Provide signage within the orchard related to history, education, pet requirements, etc. 3. Recommend that the City officially rename the park “Heritage Orchard” for consistency. Remove the existing sign that reads “Central Park” and save for a future historic display. 19 14 | Page Education and Community Outreach 1. Create educational and community outreach programs that engage the community in the preservation of the Heritage Orchard. 2. Introduce education programs with the orchardist and the community to ensure the security of the orchard. 3. Add an agriculture structure (such as, but not limited to, a barn) to educate and engage the community. 4. Implement the Adopt a Tree Program recommended in the 2001 plan. 5. Hold an Annual Harvest Day to engage the community. Saratoga residents would be guided and allowed to pick the fruit on Harvest Day using best practices. 6. Create an orchard advisory group of residents and orchardists with historical orchard management and experienced orchardists to provide feedback and input on the orchard. The Orchard Advisory Group should meet quarterly or as needed. 7. Request City communication channels (social media, newsletters, website, video tours, etc.) to be used to share this necessary information with the community, including any educational/outreach programs, special events, and orchard program information. 20 15 | Page IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 2020 HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN Task City Orchardist Other Q1 Jan- March Q2 April- June Q3 July- Sept Q4 Oct- Dec Identify and agree on best agricultural practices X X X Orchardist to work with City to implement best management practices X X X Implement tree numbering X X Orchard Advisory meeting X X X Update irrigation system X X X Maintain paths in orchard X X X Plant replacement trees X X Create program to manage wildlife X X Introduce soil nutrients X X Replace all dead/diseased trees X X X X X Plant cover crops/grasses X X X X X Quarterly report to the City X X X X X 21 16 | Page Orchard Preservation Plan A primary objective of the management of the Heritage Orchard is the preservation of the orchard in perpetuity. The HPC has also determined that the highest level of protection to preserve the Heritage Orchard in Perpetuity requires an amendment to the original City Council that includes a legal land survey showing the boundaries of the orchard. The original City Council Resolution No. 00-049, adopted by the Council on October 4, 2000, noted that the orchard “should be maintained in perpetuity for the enjoyment of generations to come.” However, the resolution did not specifically reference the necessary land boundaries, an official survey, acreage, or elements of the orchard. In order to further ensure the protection of the orchard and provide important addenda to the Master Plan, it is recommended that the City of Saratoga commission updated boundary, topographic and intensive level historic surveys of the Heritage Orchard. It is advised and imperative that the City Council issue an amendment to Resolution No. 00- 049 that references the updated land surveys. The reference would ensure that none of the documented, surveyed orchard site would be vulnerable to sale or boundary limitation by future City Councils or adverse consequences due to actions by others. With the goal of protection in perpetuity in mind, it is strongly advised that an attorney review the options and documents, affording the strongest legal wording for the amended resolution. 22 17 | Page Summary The Heritage Orchard is living history and considered a piece of agricultural history in Saratoga. The preservation and maintenance of the Heritage Orchard will continue to be associated with the early twentieth century horticulture and fruit growing agriculture industry, that once flourished in the Santa Clara Valley. This can be accomplished by: 1. Providing permanent protection using revised and updated surveys and documentation. 2. Utilizing and annually reviewing the best agricultural practices. 3. Recognizing the orchard with attractive and educational signage 4. Implementing educational and outreach programs, including Adopt-a-Tree, news articles, a web site, video tours, for the community. “The best friend on earth of man is the tree. When we use the tree respectfully and economically, we have one of the greatest resources on the earth.” ― Frank Lloyd Wright 23 18 | Page Appendix 1. 2001 Heritage Orchard Master Plan 2. Central Park/Heritage Orchard DPR 3. City Council Resolution No. 00-049 4. City Council Resolution No. 02-021 5. Monthly Tasks 6. Heritage Orchards Visited in 2019 by Members of the Heritage Preservation Commission • Los Altos Civic Center 51 S. San Antonio Road Los Altos, CA 94022 • Sunnyvale Heritage Orchard Park 560 Remington Drive Sunnyvale, CA 94087 • San Jose Martial Cottle Park 6283 Snell Avenue San Jose, CA 95136 24 1 Heritage Orchard Master Flan rSaratoga, California David Cates &Associates August, 2001 1 25 Heritage Orchard Master Plan Saratoga, California 1 Acknowledgements City Council Mayor John Mehaffey Vice Mayor Nick Streit Councilman Stan Bogosian Councilman Ann Waltonsmith Councilman Evan Baker Heritage Preservation Commission Norman Koepernik, Chair Dora Grens Carolyn King Willys Peck Robert Peepari Beth Wyman City Staff City Manager: David Anderson Public Works Director: John Cherbone tStaff Support: John Livingstone t 26 Purpose of Document In order to ensure the long-term viability of Saratoga's Heritage Orchard,the Heritage Commission has prepared an Orchard Master Plan. This document provides for the renovation of the existing orchard and sets out guidelines to control future uses in the interest of minimizing disruption of the existing character or health of the orchard. Context The Heritage Orchard is an approximately 18-acre site at the corner of Saratoga Avenue and Fruitvale Avenue. The orchard is currently comprised of Prune, Apricot, and Cherry trees. Historically,the orchard was made up primarily of Apricot trees, which still comprise approximately half of the trees in the orchard. A substantial block of Prune trees occupies the western edge of the site. In the last seven years, Cherry trees have been planted along the northern edge of the site to provide greater flexibility in responding to market crop values. Overtime, a number of trees in the orchard have died or declined. A substantial number of trees need to be replanted to maintain the orchard in a healthy condition. Currently, the orchard is irrigated using a temporary system. Irrigation lines are manually laid out on top of the ground to provide flood irrigation to four rows of orchard trees and then relocated to the next four rows of orchard trees. Using this labor intensive approach, 'the trees are watered four to six times per year from a metered source. The Saratoga Library is located in the North corner of the orchard facing Saratoga Avenue. The proposed library expansion will necessitate the removal of some orchard trees to accommodate the building and parking expansion. Sixty-two of the removed trees have been transplanted to other locations in the orchard. An additional 140 orchard trees will be planted as a part of the separate library expansion project. These trees will be primarily located in the triangle of the Saratoga/Fruitvale intersection and along Saratoga Avenue with the remainder being planted the immediate perimeter of the library. Cnoartinv N.21 Carlos 0, M d. Parkmeer Moorpvla n Mine. rs um Blue Iv Cam W OY Y0. Allendale A 8p aga a yy 9 at 17 PROJECT SITE ab.wm 111 SARATOGA HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN I 27 1 Goals The following goals have been identified for the Saratoga Heritage Orchard: i I. Preserve the orchard as a functioning agrarian use. 2. Provide educational opportunities View of existing orchard from Saratoga Avenuetolearnaboutagriculturalhistoryin the area and orchard management and operations. 3. Maximize views of the orchard from the surrounding area to insure the orchard is an important part of the community's image. 4. Minimize intrusion of site Entry driveway improvements into orchard that may disrupt orchard maintenance operations or impact the 'natural appearance'of the orchard. 5. Ensure orchard is maintained inw optimum health by implementing necessary orchard maintenance and replacement programs. 6. Implement a tree adoption Access dirt road to barn site program. Apricot trees along existing parking SARATOGA HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN 2 28 Recommendations In developing the master plan, the Heritage Preservation Committee reviewed a number of issues associated with the orchard from permitted uses to long-term maintenance approach. The following recommendations summarize their input on the range of issues. Replace orchard trees that have died or are in substantial decline. The orchard is comprised of 3 distinct groups of trees—Apricots, Prunes and Cherry trees. This diversity enhances the community enjoyment of the orchard by extending the period in which trees are blooming in the orchard. The diversity also facilitates orchard management with the staging of harvest time for the various fruits. The mix of fruit trees allow "averaging"the crop value from year to year as the price and productivity of the fruit crops will vary. Currently,there are 298 dead or missing trees, 154 are in severe decline and in need of replacement, and an additional 10 trees which will potentially need to be replaced in the next 5 years. Location of replacement tree species should be consistent with the existing trees in the various sections of the orchard. William Coates, Farm Advisor(Tree Fruit and Nut Crops)with the University of California Cooperative Extension, has provided the following recommendations for species selection when replanting the orchard: Apricot: Bleinhien or Marianna Rootstock 2624 Prune: French Prune or Marianna 2624 or Moroblin 29C Rootstock Cherry: Bing Cherry with Black Tartarion or Von Pollinizers or Colt or Mazzard Rootstock Heritage Orchard Stats Existing Tree Inventory Healthy Tree Cano Quarter Half Three Full Young Sub- Dead Total Quarters Trees* Total Trees Apricots 25 45 7 305 168 550 200 750 Cherries 0 0 0 0 314 314 61 375 i Prunes 44 40 3 73 105 265 34 299 Total I I I 1 1 1424 Trees under 7 years old 1 Retain existing health of non-orchard trees. A number of native oaks and other trees interspersed throughout the orchard, while their existing trees are not typically found in a commercial orchard as they compete with the fruit trees in sun and space. The Heritage Preservation Committee felt it is important to retain these trees as a part of the sites history. However, only orchard trees will be planted in the orchard in the future. SARATOGA HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN 3 29 1 Provide informal pedestrian paths in orchard. Pedestrian paths in the orchard shall have minimal impact on the natural appearance of the orchard and not interfere with maintenance. Pedestrian access through the orchard should be limited to hard packed, dirt paths created by dragging or rolling a disced area to create an even smoother surface. Paths will need to be recreated each year. Install a permanent irrigation system in the orchard. A permanent spray irrigation system should be provided to water the orchard trees. The irrigation system should be designed to achieve maximum watering efficiency through head to head coverage. The system should be laid out to work with the discing pattern between the orchard rows. The system should be designed to work with both a metered water source or a well system. A permanent system will minimize the labor associated with the current temporary irrigation system approach and to 1 provide greater flexibility with watering in response to precipitation patterns and individual tree needs. Install a well with a booster pump for irrigation water supply. In order to reduce the City's reliance on and the expense of a metered water source, the City should initiate the process of implementing a well system. Preliminary information would seem to indicate a well system at this site would be successful. A test well needs to be drilled to confirm the feasibility of a well system for irrigation use. If the well system feasibility is confirmed, a booster pump or holding tank system should be designed to accommodate irrigation supply demand. 1 Construct a "barn" to house orchard maintenance equipment and provide a focus for education programs. The maintenance barn should be located in the existing open area in the eastern portion of the site at the end of the existing access road. In addition to storage, the barn could also be used as a gathering area for docent educational programs about the orchard. The barn would be approximately 40'x 80' and house all maintenance equipment and supplies stored on site. No outdoor storage would be allowed. The character of the barn should be consistent with the historic character of the orchard. Public restrooms would not be provided in the barn area.) Design of the barn would be subject to review by the City. iA gravel forecourt would provide all-weather access to the barn. The gravel area should be a minimized size for barn uses. Access to the barn should be via the existing access road and would only be used for orchard maintenance. Access to the barn for educational purposes would be via the pedestrian pathways. i SARATOGA HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN 4 30 A water tower could also be located in this area to provide a visual landmark. O U Uz') a a 4 Implement an adoption program for orchard trees. In order to increase community involvement in the orchard preservation and to off set some of the orchard maintenance costs, the commission would like the City to implement a tree adoption program. While the details of the program would need to be refined, the commission envisions a freestanding kiosk to be used to identify individual adopted trees rather than plaques scattered throughout the orchard. Pedestrian access through the orchard would be created by discing the rolling paths between the rows, parallel to the irrigation lines. Provide sign to identify "Heritage Orchard". The sign should be located at the Fruitvale and Saratoga Avenue intersection. The design of the sign should be visually consistent with the agrarian theme similar to the "rock wall" Saratoga entry monument. The sign should be sited to avoid both conflict with sightlines and orchard operations. The kiosk should be visually consistent with the orchard area. SARATOGA HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN 5 31 Implementation 1 Phasing: The implementation of the Master Plan will occur over a number of years. In addition to the ongoing management strategies, there are a number of capital improvements which are a part of the master plan. The Phase I improvements should be undertaken in the next year to insure the continuing health of the orchard. Phase I Capital Improvements Replace missing or dead orchard trees Install a permanent irrigation system Explore feasibility of a well and install well system as appropriate Construct orchard sign Future Phase Improvements Adopt a tree program development Maintenance 'Barn" construction Ongoing orchard tree replacement as required Phase II Schedule: Typically orchard trees are planted in January from bare rootstock and ordered in fall. Consequently, in order to maintain the schedule, it will be important to initiate the project in a timely manner. All other improvements, such as well and irrigation system, could be installed subsequent to planting. Order bare root trees October 2001 Initiate well tests and install well and pumps Oct./November 2001 Plant bare root trees January 2002 Prepare construction documents for irrigation system January 2002 Obtain bids for installation of irrigation system/award contract February 2002 Install irrigation system March 2002 Desi n and install orchard sin L Aril 2002 Initiate ado t-a-tree program July 2002 SARATOGA HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN 6 32 Phase I Construction Costs: The city council will need to allocate funds for Phase I improvements as follows. The following Phase I costs are anticipated: Item Unit Cost Cost Remove Existing Dead Trees/stumps(450) 75/tree 33,750 Assorted Orchard Fruit Trees (450) 100/tree 45,000 Irrigation System Lump sum 95,000 1 Booster PumpMell Lump sum 41,000 Electrical Lump sum 5,000 Orchard Monument Sign 1 7,000 Subtotal 226,750 Contingency 20% 45,350 Total 272,100 1 SARATOGA HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN 7 33 ti..` "4 x Orchard Inventory 2001CIVICCENTERr a axo Apricots CREEK X x © o .Xo O O © 0 a o x - f, j r Cherriesxxbxxx QOM Oxr - , OX x pppxO(&(aa p ,.. Q x ©Qa ® x. x '0. Q o o r Prunes Limit of work f P v o a fl X O 000 00 for library expansion x ® x 0 C K; a x x o O a x xQG x Oz x X x Oaks and other non-orchard o0 °.xa X x a a , aQ © xX to < QC? 3Oxx xxOC Ox=x: O fct trees x> X QX ) 4gO © xOOxo x Xx d x ' O x A. x o 1 New orchard trees X x a t 'x x Q s x x p p x :a o X Dead or missing trees5 s OtobeinstalledwithOXx X, x © C a x x p ®© Q C7G x C) © ( x ® p 0 Q)dC3 @ 0 afl , MXlibraryexpansionF © X O Q.X x g x p p i O p 0 ro'ect 3 d x p r c x p1 x Cd fD fi X P 1 pX X O(PO x0 x i Ooa x0 © r '` x x 4 p p o CD x 0© `` x x e7 c x ® x 0X0 > 4C jOx @CJ x x0 00 X © (D 0 (50 p © © x X pX® rrF,, 0 x x 0 0 0 fi x ; n < x 0E) © c ®x x X X0 x x 00 ° . Trees transplanted x x • a, X X p n x D CD x x p xwithlibrary x k p ,y. o 7 x x f Es: x u O Q construction s x x > x x X w o o 0 0 x x p OK tam X 0x t i p ox X X X X X X Xxx x x x o x3 a a 00 XOGrr x .. .r Q ` sOO OO X X X (DX Q@ O O x X X x xxxxC 4 X X X OO OO o x f O y r CO O O 1 SARAT x . x 0 9 a gtWf LIBRARY 0® x X y 000000 X X oOa x XOxxrx j C n000 x OXx, x Gx x tJ t a 4 :!\, Ji.!O O O a r, X ' J x x X ®i`x x ',.. x x x X x x x°x> x x X Ex 4 OO ax x0X0 kOUO O/C b` ' T y j" X © veX x Q x G ©X' X x, X r a c O 0,O l J t-., a v E V x ' '.x ya`" x }' x x r ' 1 Q x xGOO O O 4 x CaOtlOOO . i x x o 5 x Goose . 00 X X46GANUEAVE GATES GH T a R ASSOCIA ESENTRYACCESSROADi LA.NDSC APE a'[H i c IUhE 5 F 34 Orchard Master Plan 1 CIVIC CENTER po r Apricots o , CREEK fl o a Q ® Cherries Q oor o 00 (DO oo C3 o o Q O C Cd C 4 C3{? Q o o b:Q oe C3 Pooo, Q runesofleayOOO t-3Q© © 7 a °' 0 a o s o y , 0O (D o ,`,Oao ooh. 0 0 0 4 t o Q d 4 CJC Q Oaks and other non-orchard o GQ o C,00 4 CQ CQ d rh a trees tD OCip o , 0 0 o<D o { 4 0- 0- © Q o Q uop ar LDS « ?a) QC3' tQ aGGt G o r, oo p i QCD G o C7Q opQQ © oo _ Q 7C 6Qao( QQ aao , ( c i P o © oa o oo a 000 a o0 , , 3 0 D (70 oo C7OpOat ps (D Qo '5 o ® p Q {o0 00 comma ° A o p 7 G(3)Q(9)(W o ADOPT ATREE KIOSK o Q 0 flay fe s o o 4 .Q goo BARN z. ti,f}SARATO o ? &D 0 ©C LIBRARY r 4ry I .. ;o DO p 0 INI, D(2) W (R) Q 00 Goo Orchard` 1 identity sig n SAR.A. T OGA AV EN i UE GATES::TES; GvfF&ASSOCIATESES e J,NCSC ACCESS ROAD1 yt -.- 35 Mount Diablo State of California - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION PRIMARY RECORD NRHP Status Code 4of Central Park Orchard*Resource Name or # HP-88-01 HP-3 P1. Other identifier: *P2. Location: Santa Clara County*a. County Cupertino*b. USGS 7.5' Quad 1980 Photorevised .8 S.T .1 W.R Saratoga Ave. c. Address:SaratogaCity 95070Zip 10S d. UTM:(give more than one for large and/or linear resources) Zone mE/mN southwest corner of Fruitvale and Saratoga Avenues. e.Other Locational Data: (e.g., parcel #, directions to resource, elevation, etc., as appropriate) (Assigned by recorder): and (P2b and P2c or P2d. Attach a location map as necessary.) ;; ; Located on the southwest corner of Saratoga Avenue and Fruitvale, south of the Saratoga Library, is this working prune and apricot orchard covering nearly fourteen acres. The property was the subject of a 2000 California Point of Historical Interest nomination and evaluation by Heritage Preservation Commission of the City of Saratoga. Those application and DPR523 forms are attached to this recording, and provide a detailed survey and evaluation of the property. *P3a. Description: (Describe resource and its major elements, include design, material, condition, alterations, size, setting, and boundaries) HP31. Urban open space*P3b. Resource Attributes: (List attributes and codes) Building Structure Object Site District Element of District Other (Isolates, etc.)*P4. Resources Present: None Location Map Sketch Map Continuation Sheet Building, Structure, and Object Record Archaeological Record District Record Linear Feature Record Milling Station Record Rock Art Record Artifact Record Photograph Record Other (List): *Attachments: Archives & Architecture: City of Saratoga Statement of Historic Context, 2009. *P11. Report Citation: (Cite survey report and other sources, or enter "none".) View of orchard, July 2009. P5b.Description of Photo: (View, date, accession #) Historic Prehistoric Both *P6. Date Constructed/Age and Source: City of Saratoga 13777 Fruitvale Ave. Saratoga CA 95070 *P7. Owner and Address: Archives & Architecture, LLC PO Box 1332 San Jose, CA 95109 *P8. Recorded By: (Name, affiliation, and address) 10/26/09*P9. Date Recorded: Reconnaissance *P10. Survey Type: (Describe) Established 1984. * Required InformationDPR 523A (1/95) Not for Publication Unrestricted 1 397-30-053APN# B.M. F. Maggi, L. Dill, & J. Kusz Date Primary # HRI # Trinomial Other Listings Review Code Reviewer Date Page 13650 7J 2 36 State of California - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND OBJECT RECORD *NRHP/CRHR Status Code Central Park OrchardResource Name (Assigned by recorder) 4of Marion-Cox-Kitchen-Seagraves Ranch B1. Historic Name: Central Park Orchard - 13659 Fruitvale/Saratoga Avenues B2. Common Name: Farm B3. Original Use:Public ParkB4. Present Use: n/a*B5. Architectural Style: Established as a park in 1984. *B6. Construction History: (Construction date, alterations, and date of alterations) No Yes Unknown*B7. Moved?n/aDate:n/aOriginal Location: Construction of Saratoga community Library in adjacent acreage. Site is traversed on its southern boundary by Wildcat Creek. *B8. Related Features: n/a B9a. Architect:n/ab. Builder: Resource & Envir. Mgmt.*B10. Significance: Theme Heritage LaneArea: 1841 - 1975Period of Significance:ParkProperty Type:NoneApplicable Criteria: (Discuss importance in terms of historical or architectural context as defined by theme, period and geographic scope. Also address integrity.) Central Park Orchard is listed on the Saratoga Heritage Resources Inventory, included as a part of HP-88-01. It qualified under Criteria a and g: a) the property exemplifies and reflects special elements of the cultural, social, economic, aesthetic, and architectural history of Saratoga; and g) the property contributed to a unique natural setting constituting a distinct area having special character. Central Park Orchard also appears eligible for the California Register of Historical Resources under Criterion (1), as the site has been designated a landmark site, representing early Saratoga during its period of Horticultural Development. (Continued on page 4, DPR523L) DPR 523B (1/95)*Required Information B11. Additional Resource Attributes: (list attributes and codes) Saratoga Heritage Preservation Commission, Historic Resources Inventory form, 1988. Saratoga News, August 22, 1984 Saratoga News, August 13, 1986. *B12. References: State Point of Historical Interest Designated Landmark Site B13. Remarks: Franklin Maggi*B14. Evaluator: October 26, 2009*Date of Evaluation: (Sketch Map with north arrow required.) (This space reserved for official comments.) 2 HP30. Trees/vegetation Primary # HRI # Page 37 State of California - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION LOCATION MAP 4of DPR 523J (1/95)*Required Information * Map Name:Multiple n.t.s.* Scale:Varies* Date of Map: Central Park Orchard*Resource Name or #(Assigned by recorder)3 Primary # HRI # Trinomial Page 38 State of California - The Resources Agency DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION CONTINUATION SHEET 4of DPR 523L (1/95)*Required Information (Continued from page 2, DPR523b, B10) Historical Background The Central Park Orchard, consisting of 13.9 acres of apricots and prunes, bounded by Wildcat Creek, Fruitvale and Saratoga Avenue was created in 1984 to preserve the important agricultural heritage of Saratoga. As development encroached on the last remaining orchards in Saratoga, this site was chosen to represent the important early history of Saratoga and the role orchards played as the economic backbone of the town during the period of Horticultural Development (1869-1906). It was preserved as an orchard as it was one of the last remaining orchards in the city of Saratoga in the 1980s. The site was originally part of Quito Rancho and was later owned in the 1880s by the Marion family. In the 1920s, the property was owned by F.C. Cox who farmed apricots and prunes for 30 years on the property. In 1950s, the land was owned by W. Seagrave until 1984 when it was designated by the City of Saratoga as a Heritage Landmark Integrity The property continues to change slowly over time, as it is a working orchard; however, the setting and materials have remained consistent with the original design, and the property represents the historical associations and feelings of the outdoor resource. * Recorded By F. Maggi, L. Dill, & J. Kusz Central Park Orchard*Resource Name or #(Assigned by recorder) Continuation Update10/26/2009* Date Primary # HRI # Trinomial Page 4 39 RE SOLUTION NO.00 - 049 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA RECOGNIZING THE HERITAGE ORCHARD WHEREAS, the City of Saratoga City Council designated the Heritage Orchard a Heritage Resource on August 15, 1984; and WHEREAS, the Heritage Orchard is one of the last remaining orchards in the City of Saratoga; and WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that the Heritage Orchard has special historical, cultural and aesthetic value as part of the heritage of Saratoga and Santa Clara County; and WHEREAS, the Heritage Orchard is a valuable asset to the community that should be maintained, enhanced and made available for education of the public about Saratoga's agricultural history; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT THE HERITAGE ORCHARD is hereby recognized as a valuable asset to the community that should be maintained in perpetuity for the enjoyment of generations to come. The above foregoing resolution was passed and adopted by the Saratoga City Council at a meeting held on the 4th day of October, 2000, by the following vote: AYES: Evan Baker, John Mehaffey, Mayor Stan Bogosian NOES: None Nick Streit, Ann Waltonsmith ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Cat ~ee~ g;~Oi"~y f21 Stan Bogosian, Mayor City of 3 40 RESOLUTION NO. 02- 021 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA AMENDING THE HERITAGE ORCHARD MASTER PLAN TO ALLOW THE REMOVAL OF NON-ORCHARD TREES WHEREAS; after further review of the Goals stated in the Heritage Orchard Master Plan the removal of the non-orchard trees would act to preserve the orchard as a fixnctioning use, and minimize intrusion into the orchard that would disrupt orchard maintenance and the natural appeazance of the Orchard and;WHEREAS; the proposed project consisting of the removal or non-orchard trees from the Heritage Orchadd is Categorically Exempt from the Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)pursuant Sections 15061(3), the general rule exemption and 15331, "Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation", Class 31 of the Public Resources Code ( CEQA). This exemption allows for the restoration and preservation of historic resources and;NOW, THEREFORE, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga does hereby amend the Heritage Orchard Master Plan to allow the removal of non-orchazd trees.The above and foregoing resolution was passed and adopted at an adjourned meeting of the Saratoga City Council held on the 3RD day of April 2002 by the following vote:AYES: Councilmembers Stan Bogosian, John Mehaffey, Ann Waltonsmith,Vice Mayor Evan Baker, Mayor Nick Streit NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 4 41 Monthly Tasks Ongoing: Routine Tasks Gopher and Ground Squirrel Trapping- weekly Irrigation checks- weekly Mowing/weed whacking- every 4-6 weeks (depending on cover crop or not) Tasks Per Month January Prune plums Plant trees February Spray- All trees for overwintering pathogens and soft bodied insects (Bacterial Canker, Brown Rot, Rust, Shothole Fungus, Mealy aphid, plum curly leaf aphid) Materials to be used- Nordox copper fungicide, Superior type oil Prune plums March April May June July Spray-If wet during bloom, we will spray for Brown Rot. Spray for the Oblique Banded Leafrolling caterpillar Materials to be used- Serenade ASO, BT Thin Apricots if crop is too heavy Work with City to organize harvest with different organization and/or residents Plums- keep an eye out for Mealy Aphid and address if reaching threshold Harvest Cots- be support for the various organizations and/or residents who will be picking. Prune the cots 5 42 August Prune the cots September Sow cover crop October Spray for mealy aphid- kill it before it overwinters Material used- Trilogy (Neem oil) November Spray for shot hole fungus Material used Nordox copper fungicide December Routine tasks 43 DPR 523A (1/95)*Required information Page of *Resource Name or #: (Assigned by recorder) P1. Other Identifier: *P2. Location:__Not for Publication __Unrestricted *a. County and (P2c, P2e, and P2b or P2d. Attach a Location Map as necessary.) *b. USGS 7.5' Quad Date T ;R ; of of Sec ;B.M. c. Address City Zip d. UTM: (Give more than one for large and/or linear resources) Zone ,mE/ mN e. Other Locational Data: (e.g., parcel #, directions to resource, elevation, etc., as appropriate) *P3a. Description: (Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, setting, and boundaries) *P3b. Resource Attributes: (List attributes and codes) *P4.Resources Present:__ Building __ Structure __ Object __ Site __ District __ Element of District __Other (Isolates, etc.) P5b. Description of Photo: *P6. Date Constructed/Age and Source:__ Historic __ Prehistoric __ Both *P7. Owner and Address: *P8. Recorded by: *P9. Date Recorded: *P10. Survey Type: *P11. Report Citation: *Attachments:__NONE __Location Map __Continuation Sheet __Building, Structure, and Object Record __Archaeological Record __District Record __Linear Feature Record __Milling Station Record __Rock Art Record __Artifact Record __Photograph Record __ Other (List): State of California The Resources Agency Primary # ___________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ___________________________________ PRIMARY RECORD Trinomial ___________________________________ NRHP Status Code Other Listings ____________________________________________________________ Review Code __________________ Reviewer ________________ Date _____________ P5a. Photograph or Drawing (Photograph required for buildings, structures, and objects.) 1 1 N. San Antonio Road HRI #:15; Civic Center Orchard Santa Clara 1 N. San Antonio Road Los Altos 94022 Looking SE Los Altos History Museum City of Los Altos 1 N. San Antonio Road Los Altos, CA 94022 Circa: Historic Property Development 582 Market Street,Suite 1800 July 2011 Intensive Los Altos Historic Resources Inventory Update Report (Circa: Historic Property Development, March 2012). The Civic Center Orchard represents a portion of the apricot orchard planted by Mr. and Mrs. J. Gilbert Smith, early Los Altos settlers, and is related to the nearby Smith farm house. The residence,which currently serves the community as the History House, sits near the southeast corner of the Civic Center complex. Portions of the Smith orchard lands within the Civic Center remain along N. San Antonio Road, north of the Los Altos Library, and in the northeast sector of the complex. A number of trees dating to the period of Smith's residence appear to remain. As the City replaces dead or diseased trees as needed, a number of younger trees are also apparent within the orchard tracts. 2 170 42 029 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ July 2011 HP39. Other Orchard San Francisco,CA 94104 Planted 1902 6 44 DPR 523B (1/95)*Required information *NRHP Status Code Page of *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) B1. Historic Name: B2. Common Name: B3. Original Use: B4. Present Use: *B5. Architectural Style: *B6. Construction History: (Construction date, alterations, and date of alterations) *B7. Moved? _No _Yes _Unknown Date: Original Location: *B8. Related Features: B9a. Architect: b. Builder: *B10. Significance: Theme Area Period of Significance Property Type Applicable Criteria (Discuss importance in terms of historical or architectural context as defined by theme, period, and geographic scope. Also address integrity.) B11. Additional Resource Attributes: (List attributes and codes) *B12. References: B13. Remarks: *B14. Evaluator: ___________________________________ *Date of Evaluation: State of California & The Resources Agency Primary # DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI# BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND OBJECT RECORD (This space reserved for official comments.) (Sketch Map with north arrow required.) 22 CA Reg: 5S1 1 N. San Antonio Road Civic Center Orchard Agricultural Mixed n/a n/a n/a Early Development/Agriculture Los Altos c.1900-1961 (50 year mark)Orchard NR/CR/Local Circa: Historic Property Development July 2011 ✔ Established c.1900. J. Gilbert Smith House In approximately 1901, J. Gilbert Smith purchased 10 acres of farmland to grow apricots and establish a home site. Living in a tent on his land during construction, Smith completed the house in 1905. He later married Margaret Hill Smith and the couple developed a sizeable apricot orchard on the property. The Smiths sold their property to the city of Los Altos in 1954, two years after incorporation, for the construction of the City's Civic Center complex. A stipulation of the sale was that the couple would be allowed to reside in the house and surrounding acre until their passing, at which point the house would become the city's history museum. Upon Mrs. Smith's death in 1973, the property reverted to the city. Another stipulation was that the remaining apricot trees not be removed; the city maintains and replaces the trees as needed today. The house and orchard are now City of Los Altos Historical Landmarks and the house itself is a is a California Point of Historical Interest. On September 8, 1991 the City Council unanimously passed and adopted a resolution adding the Civic Center's apricot orchard along San Antonio Road to the West, the Library to the South, the Youth Center to the East, the Civic Center parking lot to the North, as a Historical Landmark. Evaluation: The Civic Center orchard is one of the last active apricot orchards remaining in Los Altos and was first planted by early Los Altos resident, J. Gilbert Smith. Despite the orchard's decrease in size and adjacent new construction, the site retains a fair degree of integrity. Therefore, it is listed on the Los Altos Historic Resources Inventory as a Historic Resource and is assigned the California Register Status Code 5S1: "Individual property that is listed or designated locally." Los Altos Historical Commission: Los Altos HRI (9.28.1997); McAlester, Virginia and Lee. A Field Guide to American Houses. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2002; DPR series forms by G. Laffey (1997); Sanborn Maps; Los Altos HRI (February 2011). Vicinity map provided by the City of Los Altos and amended by Circa: Historic Property Development. HRI# 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Message from the Director of Parks and Recreation li. History of the Orchard Heritage Park Properties Ill. Goals and Action Statements IV. Resources and Facilities V. Management Plan VI. Orchard Preservation Plan VII. Project Planning Appendices: A. Orchard Heritage Park Site Plan B. Orchard Maintenance Agreement C. O.H.P.I.E. Maintenance Agreement D. S.H.S. Agreement C City of Sunnyvale 52 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 I. Message from the Director of Parks & Recreation This Master Plan is the first undertaken for one specific park in Sunnyvale. This effort has been initiated as the number of agricultural acres has diminished and the need to preserve our agricultural heritage while balancing community recreation needs has grown more prominent. Orchard Heritage Park contains the last small working Apricot Orchard in Sunnyvale. Shrinking open space and increasing demands for recreational space have required that the community work together creating this plan for today and for the future. It is important to acknowledge members of the community that, working together with staff, have given of their time and resources to help make this plan complete. B The members of Sunnyvale City Council - for direction and energy in providing the community exciting additions to the open space and park system and new opportunities for leisure and recreation activities. Fred Fowler, Mayor Julia Miller, Vice Mayor Manuel Valerio, Council Member Patricia Vorreiter, Council Member Jack Walker, Council Member Tim Risch, Council Member John Howe, Council Member Q The Sunnyvale Parks and Recreation Commission - for conducting and attending public meetings; reviewing information and providing essential recommendations that have strengthened this plan. Joe Manfrey, Chair Jeffrey Arnett, Vice Chair Robyn Nixon, Commissioner Raymond Pole, Commissioner VACANT. Commissioner Q The near neighbors of Orchard Heritage Park - for giving of their time and creativity, providing input regarding the current Orchard, Museum, Barn and Gardens, and what the future may hold for Orchard Heritage Park. Q The Sunnyvale Historical Society, its President, Jan Camp and essential support from member Laura Babcock - for providing input and energy throughout the steps culminating in construction of the Orchard Heritage Park Interpretive Exhibit (OHPIE), for energizing the community to the need for a 53 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 Heritage Museum and commitment to join with the City in bringing one to this site and for conducting research for the "History" portion of this plan found in Section 11. e Mr. C. J. "Charlie" .Olson - our Orchardist who provided essential input throughout the planning and development of Orchard Heritage Park projects and provided much needed initiative for action. Without Charlie's efforts these many years, Sunnyvale would not likely have a working fruit orchard to preserve. e The Sunnyvale Garden Club, its President Ms. Nellie Durrand who provided collaborative ideas and assistance in site evaluations and plans for both community gardens and garden renovations at Heritage Center. This Master Plan for Orchard Heritage Park is a working document to provide the community, its citizens and partners a guideline for operations, maintenance and development of the park. It is provided in collaboration with members of the community whose expressed interest is to preserve the agricultural and historical heritage of the City of Sunnyvale. It has been a privilege for our staff to work with the community on this exciting project and we are committed to managing the park and its various facilities in accordance with this plan, returning to the community for input as the future years unfold. Robert A. Walker, Director of Parks and Recreation 54 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 1. History of the Orchard Heritage Park Properties Orchard Heritage Park is located at 550 East Remington Drive. Also located at this 31-acre parcel are the Community Center and Ballroom; Creative Arts and Theater Center; the Sports Center and Gymnasium; and the Arboretum and Orchard Heritage Park Interpretive Exhibit (OPHIE). Soon the Sunnyvale Senior Center will also share this location with its grand opening scheduled for summer of 2003. Please see Appendix A,, Site Plans. -i - A 1965 Bond Issue funded the City purchase of a portion of this site from the Vidovitch family, a well-known farming family in the valley. Additional land was secured through a land swap with the Cupertino Elementary School District to complete the acreage seen today. Orchard Heritage Park occupies the southern-most portion of the Community Center property. The Park is approximately 10 acres in size and bordered to the south by Cresent Avenue, to the west by Manet Drive and to the east by Michelango Drive. When this land was purchased the entire area of Sunnyvale was planted in fruit trees and the streets had not yet been constructed. The City was able to plan the site and its surrounding residential and business developments allowing ample opportunities for public involvement in the planning processes. The Community Center was constructed first and was dedicated in a public ceremony on March 17, 1973. The condition of the ten-acre portion, planted in Apricots had fallen into a state of decline by that time and the City sought an Orchardist that could maintain the Apricot trees until a date that the final use of this site could be determined. In 1977 the City secured an Orchard Maintenance Agreement with Mr. C. J. "Charlie" Olson to maintain the ten-acre orchard. Since that date Mr. Olson has been responsible for tree care, removallreplacement of approximately 400 of the 800 fruit trees, pruning, spraying and fruit pickinglprocessing. The City provides irrigation water and Mr. Olson retains the fruit value. Please see Appendix 6, Orchard Maintenance Agreement. The current Agreement expires December 15, 2002 and staff is working with the Orchardist to renew it prior to that date. Copies of the Agreement are available from the Department of Parks and Recreation. In consideration of Report to Council 92-604, Sunnyvale City Council designated the ten-acre orchard as a Special Use Site in accordance with the Open Space Sub-Element of the Sunnyvale General Plan. City Council named the site Orchard Heritage Park with intent to maintain this site as a working orchard for as long a time period as possible. The Parks and Recreation Department installed 55 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 the first signs officially noting Orchard Heritage Park at the southwest and southeast corners of the orchard (Michelangelo Drive and Manet Drive intersections with Cresent Avenue). At this time, and again in 1998, the City Council approved five-year extensions of the orchard maintenance agreement between the City and C. J. Olson. The current term of the Agreement ends December 15.2002. In 1999 City Council reviewed Report to Council 99-237. This report noted that the Orchardist had sold his nearby orchard properties and no longer had a barn to store equipment or materials necessary to maintain Orchard Heritage Park. Staff recommended and Council approved conceptual plans to construct a storage barn facility at Orchard Heritage Park. The barn was planned to accommodate tractors, other orchard equipment and materials to facilitate orchard maintenance, thereby, extending the potential lifeline of the working orchard. A capital project for this purpose was included in the fiscal year 2000-01 Sunnyvale Resource Allocation Plan. Acting on Report to Council 00-313, City Council authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement between the City and the Sunnyvale Historical Society (SHS) for the development of interpretive exhibits at Orchard Heritage Park. Orchard Heritage Park Interpretive Exhibits was constructed by the Society and provides the community a photo and written display of the agriculture-oriented life in Sunnyvale's early years. In May 2002, City Council reviewed Report to Council 02-151 and approved the concept of partnership with the Sunnyvale Historical Society to provide a Historical Museum at the site as a part of Orchard Heritage Park. As detailed in report to Council 02-218, presented on June 25, 2002, City Council gratefully accepted from Ms. Clara Bianchi the donation of a 1918 Redwood Barn with added funding for its relocation and provision for its future maintenance. Ms. Bianchi donated this barn to Sunnyvale on behalf of her family both to preserve the Barn and to make note of the contributions of Bianchi Brothers Farms, Domenic Bianchi and Santino Bianchi to the community. The Bianchi family has farmed in this valley for over 100 years. 56 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24,2002 IN. Goals and Action Statements Creation of a Master Plan for the management, operation and development of Orchard Heritage Park, with public input and in conjunction with the Sunnyvale Historical Society, is supported in the City's General Plan as follows. Open Space Sub-Element: Policy Encourage active citizen involvement in the development and 2.2A.1: management of open space. 2.2A.l.d Investigate and pursue avenues for citizen involvement in the implementation of open space programs, such as landscape plantings and park beautification activities. Policy Provide, develop and maintain Special Use Parks and Facilities. 2.2C.4: 2.2C.4.c. Provide for a balance between general recreation uses and special interest uses in parks and facilities 2.2C.4.e. Consider the designation, development and management of an Orchard Heritage Park at the Community Center site consistent with an overall plan and in cooperation with the Sunnyvale Historical Society. Recreation Sub-Element: Policy Foster and encourage partnerships with cosponsored groups and outside 6.1B.3: funded groups in order to address the community's diverse recreational needs. 6.1C.2.a. Leverage available resources by pursuing co-funded andlor cooperative agreements for both expansion and maintenance of programs, facilities and services, in order to maximize benefits to the community. 6.1 E.3.c. Study the need and feasibility of specialized recreation facilities based upon community need and interest. As noted above the City's General Plan contains goals that are wide in scope. These goals provide information to citizens and community groups as well as assurance that those areas and issues that are of greatest concern will be addressed. More specific Action Statements have been developed in conjunction with these goals to provide staff detailed direction in managing Orchard Heritage Park. Should Council approve this Master Plan, the following Action Statements would be incorporated into the City's Open Space Sub-Element: 57 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24,2002 Action Statements: 1. Manage Orchard Heritage Park and its resources so as to preserve the agricultural heritage of the City of Sunnyvale. 2. Maintain a working fruit orchard throughout the largest portion of Orchard Heritage Park for as long a time period as practical within the resources made available by the City. Provide public access to Orchard Heritage Park to the greatest extent possible while meeting the goal of maintaining a working fruit orchard at the park. 3. Support and pursue cooperative agreements with community groups and persons to enable operation of Orchard Heritage Park in a cost-effective manner consistent with outcomes approved by the City Council. 4. Encourage the use of Orchard Heritage Park in educational activities of schools that serve Sunnyvale students first, and secondarily to the schools that serve students of surrounding communities. 5. Assist the Sunnyvale Historical Society per written agreements, and to the greatest extent practical, in developing a Heritage Museum facility at Orchard Heritage Park consistent with City Council direction. 6. Assist the Orchardist per written agreements, and to the greatest extent practical, in orchard operations at Orchard Heritage Park. This includes the pending construction of the Orchard Barn to store farm related machinery, materials and equipment. 7. Pursue all available avenues to secure alternate Orchardist(s) to continue the working orchard for as long a time period as possible. 8. Provide public input opportunities in determining future uses of the park should it become impractical to maintain the largest portion of the park as a working fruit orchard. This process shall include public discussion, review of reportslplans by the Sunnyvale Parks & Recreation Commission and their recommendations, if any, to the City Council. 58 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 IV. Resources and Facilities Orchard Heritage Park contains the following resources and facilities. Fruit Orchard The Orchard consists of a~~roximatelv 800 A~ricot trees that van/ in age from less than one year old to'nearly twenty-five years of age. ~dditionil~, the orchard has a simple irrigation system, two park signs (see below) and several entrance areas. In the future, portions of this area could also be used to display tractor implements, wagons and agricultural artifacts. Orchard Barn The Orchard Barn has been approved by the City Council and will be used on a daily basis by the orchardist to house equipment and materials related to operations of the orchard. The barn originally constructed in 1918, was purchased along with orchard properties by the Bianchi family; and, was donated to the City by Ms. Clara Bianchi in 2002. Should the barn someday cease to be used for this purpose, staff would explore its potential uses including, but not limited to: Q Agriculture interpretive exhibits e Museum Storage Q Recreation Services Storage s Recreation or Leisure Services Maintenance and repairs of the Barn are the ongoing responsibility of the Superintendent of Facilities Management in accordance with written agreements. Sunnvvale Heritacle Center (formerly the "Arboretum") Sunnyvale Heritage Center is the name for the buildings, gardens and structures at the north end of Orchard Heritage Park. This area was previously named the Arboretum, but has changed in use and grown in significance to the community over the years. It is not, by definition, an Arboretum; that is, a place where an extensive collection of woody plants are cultivated for scientific, educational, and ornamental purposes. Such is not the case as no collection exists and this area therefore, is not currently an Arboretum. This is home to the Sunnyvale Garden Club whose members are responsible for planting and maintenance of several of the gardens while Parks Division staff maintain the larger portion of the site. The Sunnyvale Historical Society has completed one major project here (OHPIE) and looks forward to more (see below). A significant piece of public art (The Murphy Street Scene) has been placed here along with various items of historical, agricultural significance including a tractor with tractor implements and an orchard wagon. Many 59 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 important public events have been held here including State of the City Events, Holiday Celebrations and Special Events. The public also hosts many events such as weddings and birthday parties with reservations that are provided through Leisure Services staff of the Parks and Recreation Department. Within this Master Plan, staff proposes changing the name of this area from "Arboretum" to "Sunnyvale Heritage Center". Sunnvvale Heritage Center contains the following components: Orchard Heritage Park Interpretive Exhibit (OHPIE) The Orchard Heritage Park Interpretive Exhibit was designed and constructed by the Sunnyvale Historical Society with approval of the City Council. It is located at the northeast cor'ner of the park, on the west side of the Multi-Purpose Building. OHPlE is an interpretive display of photos and information related to the early agricultural heritage of the Sunnyvale community. The structure is open and replicates the outline of a barn providing shade and protection for the exhibits. Adjacent to the barn-like structure is a small amphitheater useful in public presentations or educational instruction for school-aged children and adults alike. Maintenance and repairs of OPHlE are the ongoing responsibility of the Superintendent of Parks. Agricultural artifacts owned by the Sunnyvale Historical Society shall be maintained by the Society in accordance with written agreements. Please see Appendix C., OHPlE Maintenance Agreement. Heritage Museum Space has been reserved at the Sunnyvale Heritage Center for a new building to be constructed by the Sunnyvale Historical Society to house the Heritage Museum. The building has not yet been designed, but is to provide space for artifacts, exhibits, meeting and conference rooms as well as storage and a management office. This structure will likely replicate the architecture of early Sunnyvale and may be a two-story structure to make best use of the available space. Maintenance and care of the Heritage Museum will be provided in accordance with a written agreement between the City of Sunnyvale and the Sunnyvale Historical Society. This maintenanceluse agreement is in the process of being developed, will be presented to Council for consideration and, upon Council approval, will be included in this Master Plan. Space has been provided (Appendix D) for attachment to this Master Plan once it has been approved. 60 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 Mulfi-Purpose Building The Multi-Purpose Building is available for public rental through Leisure Services Registration/Reservations staff at the Community Center. It is located next to OHPlE and adjacent tothe gardens of Sunnyvale Heritage Center. This building is useful for meetings, school groups and City staff meetings. Many members of the public have reserved this building in the past for special events such as birthdays and weddings. Maintenance and repairs of the Multi-Purpose Building are the ongoing responsibility of the Superintendent of Facilities Management. Gardener's Workshop The Gardener's Workshop is programmed by the City. It is used by City staff and currently serves the needs of co-sponsored Sunnyvale Garden Club and Leisure Services staff. It is a sturdy workshop where plants may be potted; signs or posters painted and small construction projects can take shape. Maintenance and repairs of the workshop are the ongoing responsibility of the Superintendent of Facilities Management. Maintenance Building The maintenance building houses the landscape equipment and crew that perform grounds and landscape maintenance tasks for the Community Center. Maintenance and repairs of the building are the ongoing responsibility of the Superintendent of Facilities Management. Public Arf "The Murphy Street Scene", by John Battenberg is a larger than life-scale sculpture in iron depicting family and farm life in early, agricultural Sunnyvale. Previously located at the end of Murphy Street, adjacent to Washington Street, the large blue metal sculpture was commissioned by the City of Sunnyvale in 1988. Bay area artist John Battenberg created the piece specifically for Sunnyvale and its rich agricultural legacy. The artist created a "cut out" design that allows the viewer to look beyond the sculpture to the orchard and distant mountains. The Superintendent of Cultural Arts manages this sculpture, and all public art in Sunnyvale. 61 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24,2002 Orchard Heritage Park Sianaqe The Parks Division is responsible for the care and replacement of signs currently placed at Orchard Heritage Park. Additional signage may be placed as necessary throughout the Park with the approval of the Director of Parks and Recreation. Such additional signage will be maintained either by the Parks Division or by another entity in accordance with written agreements. Gardens During public meetings prior to and during completion of this Master Plan, residents have requested consideration of community garden plots at park and open space sites. Therefore, gardens are planned for the park. They will be managed administratively by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Their specific location within Orchard Heritage Park has not been determined. They may be available for members of the community that do not have space available to grow vegetable andlor flower plants at their homes. However, senior gardens will likely have priority for use. These gardens will provide opportunities for senior residents to continue gardening as they move to the new Senior Center at the adjacent Community Center (garden plots have been available to senior gardeners for many years at the previous Senior Center). Actual space available for gardening will be determined such that gardening activities will not interfere with orchard operations. Note: The locations of each of the above resources and facilities of Orchard Heritage Park (except gardens) are noted on site plans in Appendix A. 62 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24,2002 V. Management Plan Management of Orchard Heritage Park, and Sunnyvale Heritage Center within the Park, shall be provided by the Parks and Recreation Department in collaboration with various user groups, (e.g., Sunnyvale Historical Society, the Orchardist, and other community groups of Sunnyvale). All areas of the Park shall be managed in accordance with City Goals, Policies and Action Statements as noted above and additionally as City Council may approve in the future. Responsibility and accountability for management of Orchard Heritage Park will be provided as follows. General Manaqement of Orchard Heritaqe Park The Superintendent of Parks shall have responsibility for maintenance and management of the Park as a whole. The Superintendent shall manage related operating and capital budgets and direct regular maintenance activities and special projects for the Park. Orchard Manaqement In accordance with the current Orchard Maintenance Agreement, the Orchardist shall have responsibility for the care and maintenance of the fruit orchard. The Orchardist shall ensure the safe keeping of the fruit trees and manage the site to provide the best possibility for sustaining a working orchard at this site. ~u~nnyvale Heritaqe Center The Superintendent of Parks shall manage the grounds and structures of Sunnyvale Heritage Center, while the Superintendent of Cultural Arts shall provide for Public art located here and the Superintendent of Facilities Management shall repair and maintain the buildings of the Center. Reservations and Activity Registrations All reservations and registration for any Parks and Recreation program shall be provided through staff of the Leisure Services, Reservations and Registration located at the Community Center. Gardens As available, an area of Orchard Heritage Park shall be provided for community gardens. Flowers andlor vegetables may be grown by gardeners that have 63 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 registered and provided a gardener's fee. Priority of use, numbers of plots available and gardener's fees shall be determined administratively by the Department of hrks and Recreation. Garden plots shall be of size and shape to make the best use of available space. The total number of gardens and space provided for gardening shall be limited to ensure that gardens do not interfere with day to day operations of the fruit orchard or facilities of Orchard Heritage Park. Care of the garden plots will be the responsibility of the gardeners. Water will be provided, however all plant materials, fertilizers and other garden products must be provided by the gardeners. One set of simple garden tools (hoe, rake, shovel, etc.) will be provided by the City and stored on site. Additional andlor special tools, owned by gardeners may not be stored on site. 64 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 VI. Orchard Preservation Plan Orchard Management Overview A primary goal of the management of Orchard Heritage Park is the preservation of the ten-acre working Orchard for as long a time period as possible. Currently the orchard is made up of Apricot trees; however, many other types of fruit and nut trees would also be suitable at this location. As market prices fluctuate and demand for fruit changes, farmers occasionally remove one crop for different, more favorable produce. Therefore, the current Apricot trees could give way to Cherry, Plum, Almond or other trees at some future date in support of efforts to keep a working orchard in place. The City will maintain an orchard at this site within the resources available and with direction of the Sunnyvale City Council. Currently the orchard has been managed through a long-term Orchard Maintenance Agreement with an Orchardist to removelplant trees, water, spray, prune and picklprocess the fruit of the trees. This Agreement is a practical solution to the dilemma that the City would face should the need arise to provide for these tasks with City employed staff. In simple terms, the life of an orchard requires continuous care on a day to day basis. Spraying the trees and pickinglprocessing the fruit must be done without concern for days of the week andlor times of day. Work in the orchard can be very labor intensive for portions of the seasons requiring many transient workers for pruning trees and picking fruit at just the right moment. On the other hand, City work classifications lend themselves to a specific weekly schedule with predictable work hours, overtime and holidays. Managers would be hard pressed, in the absence of an agreement with an Orchardist, to provide for the continuing labor needs of the working orchard. Additionally, an Orchardist acquires knowledge and becomes successful through many years (decades) of managing orchards. Parks and open space managers also have special knowledge of horticulture and property management. However, these managers would not be adequately prepared to protect the trees and orchard in the absence of an Orchardist and Orchard Maintenance Agreement. Therefore, the Parks and Recreation Department will endeavor, as a first step in orchard preservation, to maintain continuous, long term agreements with experienced and successful Orchardist(s) for the orchard at Orchard Heritage Park. Current Orchard Manasement Currently the working orchard is managed through an Orchard Maintenance Agreement with Orchardist, Mr. C. J. "Charlie" Olson. This agreement was first 65 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24,2002 negotiated with Mr. Olson in 1977 and has been renegotiated and renewed throughout the years to date. Please see Appendix B., for details of this Agreement. This Agreement expires December 15, 2002 and staff is working with the Orchardist to renew it prior to that date. Copies of the Agreement are available from the Department of Parks and Recreation. The Superintendent of Parks is liaison to the Orchardist and coordinates certain activities that support the Agreement. These activities include, but are not limited to: Q Customer service and customer concern response; Q Placement and maintenance of the Orchard Heritage Park signs; e Provide payment for orchard water and utilities; a Provide weed control at the perimeter of the property where the orchard and adjacent sidewalks meet; e Scheduling and removal of the green waste from orchard pruning; and, Q Maintenance of the backflow device and irrigation main line to the orchard. 66 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 VII. Future Project Planning Orchard Heritage Park has seen many changes over the past decades. New projects (OHPIE) have been constructed recently and artifacts (tractor, wagon and implements) have been placed as well as a significant piece of public art (Murphy Street Scene). The coming years will see the addition of two more significant structures as first the Orchard Barn, and then the Heritage Museum are constructed. It is important to plan for projects regardless of the size or type proposed. The two main types of future projects and their related planning procedures follow. Park Maintenance and Infrastructure Projects Throughout the life of a park or facility, it is necessary to repair, replace and/or update portions of facilities. In Sunnyvale, these types of projects are provided through the lnfrastructure Fund with City Council approval and are directly managed by the Parks and Recreation Department or indirectly with the assistance of the Department of Public Works. These projects tend not to alter the uses of facilities or structures, but provide the necessary replacement of roofs, renovation of park areas, replacement of trees or gardens, irrigation systems, walkways, etc. These projects are generally conducted without great impact to the community and with written notice limited to those who use the facility or park. Occasionally, this type of project may require a Building Permit and result in public posting and/or written notice of an intended project. It is the intention of the Parks and Recreation Department to continue to complete this type of project in this manner. Capital Improvement Plan Proiects Capital lmprovement Plan (CIP) projects tend to be those that provide new uses to existing facilities and/or new structures or facilities to the community. This type of project requires approval of City Council and the involvement and input of neighbors, the public, stakeholders such as co-sponsored groups and partners, Boards and Commissions and staff. Previous to and during the completion of this Master Plan, staff received strong support from near-neighbors and stakeholders for the construction of an Orchard Barn, a Heritage Museum and community flower andlor vegetable gardens at Orchard Heritage Park. During these public input opportunities there also was very strong support for maintaining the working orchard for as long a time period as possible. Many neighbors stated that the orchard ought always to be on this site regardless of costs or limitations. 67 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK MASTER PLAN Sept. 24, 2002 When the question was posed "What ought we do in the future if we can no longer provide and care for a working orchard?" neighbors and stakeholders favored a passive rather than an active open space. Consistently, neighbors preferred limiting the size and type of facilities such that very large groups andlor team sports activities would not be placed at this site. These same groups felt that the Park ought to retain its heritage focus even if it can not retain a working orchard. Significant changes to Orchard Heritage Park, its resources and facilities, in the form of new CIP projects will not occur without prior public input and involvement. It is the intention of the Parks and Recreation Department to search out input from all interested parties and provide significant opportunities for public input in the future as CIP projects are planned and before project decisions are presented to City Council for consideration and further public input. 68 69 APPENDIX A COMMUNITY CENTER PROPERTIES (Prior to construction of any buildings, roads, or facilities) SEPTEMBER 1965 70 NOT TO SCALE 71 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK (CURRENT) Michelangelo Drive I *f*f******-**f***f***ff* ***#%*ff***~************* *****ff f **+***ff ff* f **%C** f **XX*%?**f****tf* **c*-%?** , . *f **y*+f*Xw$7 , . , . *%** **W*-%**f*f**** * **~%,~~cyU.~*I* ,,\ ,.,.,,. 7 f***X*** *******.,, ,* 11~ " 7 *-**;***** ******** f***?K** Xf **tX**f X *****ff* f ******>**+***<=WYL+ ,,% . , : 0 *ff*f******f****f T -xf*~~***f~~* f *** ?E*f E A (D * * g. * f >x. "**a ,,.******** z * , ,, * * ,.. e. .,\ ,> <\ <.****** .~. *%*******fX****f~~**~*~f** ,. , 2 **W**X*f*"=*a*W**f+f**% *.. <. ,\ .?. ~ . , , - i2 ******ff*fX**MX**f**f*f* t2 **f****f**f**x*****ff*** *+**%%*** ***fX**t**lf**f**ft3k**** * * * **********~*fffff%*fA 6. *-$$* *X** *X~**M-********f** f*s***X. , +%, *+L'iL.v+ ,. 7a**%*wff *ex* aF**f*****+ * * ',' .?. ,. ,,. ,.************ c. **f :**** **:-p .. ,~ ,. ,. ~* ,************** * * .., * * * =< % .~ 7x ,., + + n.f**ff****X* *~******f**f*~***ffff ****~*~**-%~*****ff** ********** <. ,,,* ***** **** f***V*****W********ff*** *****f**.X* ************** ******f*ffX'A***ff******f ***f~*f***%r*fX********** Manet Drive NOT TO SCALE 72 ORCHARD HERITAGE PARK (With Council Approved Barn and Museum) Michelangelo Drive See Enlargement, Next Page Manet Drive NOT TO SCALE 73 SUNNYVALE HERITAGE CENTER (ENLARGEMENT) Michelangelo Drive 18m1slBlllmB1bllBBlmmmm= L * * * * + ,, I& SL mm* d/ Murphy Street Scene y& & *L A& , , /I\ ALL * SL 2,L ,t\ 4 0 -x- 3Ik -Ti * **** LAL LtL &- 0 ,,\ -* * * yg AL l!L * s- -* * * ,T. 0 + & '~ote: Locations of the Barn and Museum ' / \ /,\ are conceptual only. Specific locations are et to be determined. Museum: Size and style are to be Orchard Barn: 1,730 square foot Barn with Manet Drive NOT TO SCALE 74 75 draft f inal Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department & California State Parks MARTIAL COTTLE PARK november 3, 2010 STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN 76 77 november 3, 2010 Arnold Schwarzenegger Governor Mike Chrisman Secretary for Resources Ruth Coleman Director of Parks and Recreation State of California The Natural Resources Agency Department of Parks and Recreation P.O. Box 942896 Sacramento, California 94296-0001 County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department 298 Garden Hill Drive Los Gatos, CA 95032 MARTIAL COTTLE PARKSTATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN Cover photograph of Martial Cottle taken at Cottle Ranch 1951, courtesy of the Donor, included as part of the Oral History. 78 79 2M Associates SAGE Hexagon Transportation Consultants Balance Hydrologics Economic & Planning Systems LSA Associates, Inc. Prepared by MARTIAL COTTLE PARKSTATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN 80 81 TABLE OF CONTENTS i EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................... v ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ............................................................................................................................ xi 1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................1 A. INTRODUCTION TO THE PARK UNIT................................................................................1 B. PURPOSE OF THE PLAN ..........................................................................................................9 C. ORGANIZATION OF THE PLAN ...........................................................................................9 D. THE PLANNING PROCESS ....................................................................................................10 2 EXISTING CONDITIONS ................................................................................................................17 A. PROJECT SUMMARY ................................................................................................................17 B. SIGNIFICANT RESOURCE VALUES .....................................................................................21 C. PLANNING INFLUENCES .......................................................................................................39 D. DEMOGRAPHICS, TRENDS, AND PROJECTIONS ..........................................................55 3 KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS...........................................................................................................61 A. PARKWIDE CONSIDERATIONS ...........................................................................................61 B. SPECIFIC ISSUES .........................................................................................................................65 4 PARK PLAN .........................................................................................................................................81 A. PURPOSE AND VISION ..........................................................................................................81 B. CLASSIFICATION ......................................................................................................................84 C. LAND USE ZONES..................................................................................................................86 D. CIRCULATION PLAN ..............................................................................................................92 E. VISITOR USE ..............................................................................................................................96 F. PARKWIDE UNIT MANAGEMENT GOALS AND GUIDELINES..................................96 G. SPECIFIC AREA MANAGEMENT GOALS AND GUIDELINES...................................121 H. VISITOR CAPACITY ..............................................................................................................123 5 IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN .........................................................................................................131 A. POTENTIAL PARTNERS .......................................................................................................131 B. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS........................................................................................134 C. PHASING ..................................................................................................................................143 D. FUTURE PLANNING .............................................................................................................148 E. SUBSEQUENT ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW ...................................................................148 F. PERIODIC PLAN REVIEW AND UPDATING .................................................................149 6 DESIGN GUIDELINES ....................................................................................................................151 A. ENTRANCES AND GATES..................................................................................................151 82 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL TABLE OF CONTENTS ii B. ARCHITECTURE .....................................................................................................................152 C. FENCING ..................................................................................................................................152 D. ROADS .....................................................................................................................................153 E. PARKING AREAS....................................................................................................................154 F. TRAILS AND BUFFERS ..........................................................................................................155 G. SIDEWALKS .............................................................................................................................158 H. PLANTING ...............................................................................................................................158 I. LANDSCAPE COMPONENTS ............................................................................................160 J. PICNIC AREAS........................................................................................................................165 K. SIGNAGE ..................................................................................................................................165 7 GLOSSARY .......................................................................................................................................167 8 REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................171 Appendices Appendix A: Joint Powers and Operating Agreement Appendix B: Project Meetings Appendix C: Donor’s Vision Appendix D: Projected visitor use 83 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL TABLE OF CONTENTS iii Figures Figure 1-1 Regional Location........................................................................2 Figure 1-2 Site Context..................................................................................5 Figure 2-1 Project Site.................................................................................19 Figure 4-1 Park Plan Land Use and Management Zones............................87 Figure 4-2 Circulation Plan.........................................................................93 Figure 6-1 Perimeter Multiple Use Trails and Buffers.............................. 157 Tables Table 4-1 Desired Outcomes and Indicators for Visitor Capacity .......... 128 Table 5-1 Potential Partnerships and Areas of Contribution.................. 132 Table 5-2 Financial Analysis Summary.................................................... 135 Table 5-3 Projected Capital Improvement Costs..................................... 137 Table 5-4 Projected Annual Operations and Management Costs............ 140 Table 5-5 Potential Annual Revenue....................................................... 141 Table 6-1 Preliminary Master Plant List – Canoas Creek Habitat Enhancement ........................................................................... 159 Table 6-2 Preliminary Master Plant List – Park and Recreation Zones........................................................................................ 161 84 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL TABLE OF CONTENTS iv 85 v EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A. Introduction Martial Cottle Park (the Park) is comprised of 256.6 acres of farmland, a rem- nant of Santa Clara Valley’s agricultural history. The Park is the result of a generous gift from Walter Cottle Lester (the Donor) of 120.12 acres to the County, and the sale of 136.52 acres to the State. The Donor’s vision for Martial Cottle Park is that it be jointly developed, operated and maintained as one park to promote and sustain farming traditions thereby displaying the agricultural heritage of Santa Clara Valley from the mid 1800s to the present. An additional 30.9 acre parcel referred to as the Life Estate Area remains in the Donor’s ownership, but will ultimately become part of the Park. The Life Estate is not included as part of the Martial Cottle Park State General Plan/County Park Master Plan (the Plan) which will guide the long-term development and management of the Park. The Santa Clara Valley’s highly fertile soil once supported agricultural activi- ties throughout the County, yet there are few pockets of agricultural land remaining. The Park remains undeveloped and is situated in an unincorpo- rated area of Santa Clara County, while the surrounding land is within the City of San Jose’s jurisdiction and supports developed residential and com- mercial uses. The Park consists primarily of flat, open fields punctuated with valley oaks. While the Park has long provided scenic views from surrounding areas, it has not provided any public access with the exception of a produce stand and a Christmas tree farm that is seasonally open for public sales. The planning process for Martial Cottle Park was conducted over a four-year period from 2007 to 2010 and involved community members and local, state and federal agency representatives. To ensure an inclusive and informed planning process, three groups were formed to assist and provide input to the plan: the Project Team, Task Force, and the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). In addition, public input and agency feedback was solicited during the planning process. The plan that resulted from this process will provide new and unique educational and recreational opportunities for local, regional and statewide visitors, while enhancing existing habitat and retaining most of the Park as active farmland. 86 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY vi B. Land Use Zones The Plan establishes four land use zones for the Park, each with distinct man- agement goals and objectives. These four zones include Park and Recreation, Leased Agriculture, Habitat Enhancement and Cooperative Management. Following are descriptions of each zone. 1. Park and Recreation The Park and Recreation Zone is a broad management zone that encompasses all areas and facilities related to recreation and visitor services that will be managed by the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department (County Parks). Components within this zone are the Main Park Complex, which includes a visitor center, community pavilion and recreational ameni- ties; the Western Use Area, which includes trails and picnic area; a perimeter and internal trail system that circulates the Park; landscaped areas that will provide a buffer between land uses; and park support facilities such as a cor- poration yard. 2. Leased Agriculture The Leased Agriculture Zone will be the largest zone in the park. Most of the land within this zone will be leased for production agriculture. As active farmland, this zone will contribute to regional production and may provide park-grown produce for purchase by park visitors and other consumers. In addition, this zone will serve as a scenic backdrop for all park activities and provide interpretive elements for educational programs. 3. Habitat Enhancement Habitat will be enhanced in all zones of the Park. However, there are several areas of the Park in which habitat enhancement is the primary focus. These areas will contribute to the area’s natural communities and integrated pest management efforts for both agricultural and park areas, and will create rec- reational and educational opportunities. The key areas included in this zone are Canoas Creek and the land that surrounds it. Vegetative enhancements will be made to the Canoas Creek channel in order to improve its habitat 87 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY vii function and aesthetic value, and a seasonal wetland adjacent to the Canoas Creek channel will provide recreational and educational opportunities, en- hance the habitat value of the Park, and contribute to stormwater manage- ment. Recreational amenities in this area will be limited to trails, picnic areas and parking, which may be closed when necessitated by flood conditions. 4. Cooperative Management The Cooperative Management Zone encompasses areas that will be managed by entities other than County Parks, either through lease agreements or other arrangements, with the exception of the agricultural areas described above. There are six sub-zones within this management zone with unique uses and/or management, as described below. Demonstration gardens. Gardens for experimentation, training and edu- cation related to sustainable farming and gardening practices. Youth agriculture. Programs and facilities that provide opportunities for children to experience farm activities such as raising and caring for ani- mals, growing plants, and other farm chores. Research. Agricultural land and limited facilities for research in sustain- able agriculture that will support on-site farming operations as well as those throughout the State. Native plant nursery. A nursery that propagates and grows plants that are native to Santa Clara County for restoration and habitat enhance- ment projects in the region. Community gardens. Publicly accessible garden plots for the use of City and County residents for raising fruit, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Urban forestry. Community-based programs and facilities that support the growth of native trees that will be planted primarily in urban and park areas throughout the region. 88 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY viii C. Financial Implications Capital improvement costs for the development of Martial Cottle Park con- sistent with the goals and guidelines of the Park Plan are estimated at $64,194,800 to $85,593,800. Existing funding for Phase 1 capital improve- ments includes $20,000,000 that has been set-aside by County Parks from the Park Charter Fund, $300,000 earmarked by the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority and $250,000 of approved FY2010 federal funding from the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations (Califor- nia 15th Congressional District). Additional funding opportunities will need to be identified and secured to fully implement the Plan. This would include grants for capital projects, ongoing evaluation of userfees, potential marketing of Park-grown food and short and long-term lease revenues. The annual operations and maintenance cost for the Park is estimated at $4,404,530, assuming that all components of the Park have been implemented and are operating. However, some of the Park’s program elements could generate a revenue stream to contribute to this operating budget. It is esti- mated that $830,500 (2009-10 dollars) could be generated on a yearly basis. Assuming this revenue stream, the annual net cost for operating the Park would be $3,574,000 (2009-2010 dollars). Although County Parks will be responsible for operating and maintaining the Park, it is anticipated that cooperative partners will operate and maintain fa- cilities for youth agriculture, agricultural research, demonstration programs, urban forestry programs, native plant nursery, and community gardens. Pro- duction agriculture will require a certain level of County coordination, but will also be managed by a cooperative partner/lessee. D. Phasing The phasing program recommended for the Park offers a strategic approach to implementation of the park development that is responsive to the availabil- 89 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ix ity of funding and other resources, partnership opportunities, program needs and compliance with the Williamson Act contract requirements. The Plan should be implemented in two phases. The first phase, which ex- tends from 2011 to 2019, would take place during the Williamson Act con- tract non-renewal period and therefore must comply with contract require- ments. Phase 1 will recommend implementation of the following elements: Parkwide Circulation and Access Parkwide Utilities Park and Recreation Areas Leased Agriculture Areas Cooperative Management Areas Phase 2 will include the remainder of the Master Plan elements: Habitat Enhancement Areas Native Plant Nursery Multi-Use Outdoor Pavilion Agricultural Marketing Area E. Design Guidelines The Plan is supported by design guidelines that will help to ensure that each phase of park development, as well as long-term maintenance, contributes to the agricultural character of the Park and to successful park and agricultural operations. Recommendations are included for park entrances and gates, ar- chitecture, fencing, roads, parking areas, trails and buffers, planting, landscape components, picnic areas and signage. 90 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY x F. Future Planning This Plan will guide the long-term development and operations of the Park. However, additional planning will be necessary in order to address future conditions. The incorporation of the Life Estate Area property into the Park under the County’s ownership is a known future condition that will require additional planning and an update or amendment of this Plan. For purposes of the future Life Estate Area planning, the Donor’s Vision identifies future interpretive uses and educational programming within the Life Estate Area, related to the historic and agricultural uses at the Park. While future plan- ning efforts may expand upon the information put forward in this plan, all efforts should be consistent with the vision, goals, and guidelines described in this Plan. As with Phase 1 improvements, design development for future phases at Mar- tial Cottle Park will include opportunities for public input through commu- nity workshops, Advisory Committee meetings, and during reviews by the County Parks and Recreation Commission and County Board of Supervisors. 91 xi ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Martial Cottle Park General Plan/Master Plan planning process spanned a four-year period from 2007 to 2010, during which many individuals and agencies contributed their time, energy and other resources towards the development of this unique Park. A. County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors Supervisor Donald F. Gage - District 1 Supervisor George Shirakawa - District 2 Supervisor Dave Cortese - District 3 Supervisor Ken Yeager - District 4 Supervisor Liz Kniss - District 5 B. Santa Clara County Parks & Recreation Commission Greg West, District One Sparky Harlan, Vice-Chair, District Two Steve Munzel, District Three Jan Hintermeister, Chair, District Four Ann Waltonsmith, District Five Mike Kasperzak, At Large John Gibbs, At Large C. Task Force John Gibbs, Office of Supervisor Donald Gage, District 1 County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors; County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Commission Rachael Gibson, Office of Supervisor Donald Gage, District 1 County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors 92 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xii Greg West, County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Commission Erik Karstan Smith, City of San Jose Parks & Recreation Commission April Halberstadt, County of Santa Clara Historical Heritage Commission James C. Rowen, County of Santa Clara Historical Heritage Commission Mike Potter, Office of Assemblymember Joe Coto, District 23 Frances Grammer, Office of Assemblymember Jim Beall, Jr., District 24 Virginia Holtz, Board of Directors for Santa Clara County Open Space Authority Eric Crane, Office of Councilmember Nancy Pyle, District 10 City of San Jose City Council Kathy Sutherland, Chief of Staff for Councilmember Nancy Pyle’s office (City of San Jose Council District 10) Kevin O’Day, County of Santa Clara Department of Agriculture & Environmental Management and Deputy Agricultural Commissioner Adina Pierce, VEP Community Association – Executive Board Frank Giordano, Agent/Representative for Mr. Walter Cottle Lester (Donor) Charlie Friedericks, Member-at-Large/Resident R. Brian Gardiner, Member-at-Large Rob Iverson, Member-at-Large/Resident Bruce Medlin, Member-at-Large, Colony Green Homeowners Association Laura Monczynski, Member-at-Large, Hayes Neighborhood Association Marilyn Rodgers, VEP Community Association – Executive Board (Alternate for Adina Pierce) Stephanie Holm, Office of Councilmember Nancy Pyle, District 10 City of San Jose City Council (Alternate for Eric Crane) Julie Matsushima, City of San Jose Parks & Recreation Commission (Alternate for Erik Karstan Smith) 93 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xiii Craig Giordano, Agent/Representative for Mr. Walter Cottle Lester (Alternate for Frank Giordano) Dan Murillo, County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Commission D. Technical Advisory Committee Non-Governmental Organizations Reggie Knox, California FarmLink Brett Melone, Agricultural and Land-Based Training Association (ALBA) Preston Maring, Kaiser Permanente John Silveira, Pacific Coast Farmers' Market Association Joanne Baumgartner, WildFarm Alliance Businesses Mark Zammit, Bon Appetit Food Service Larry Bain Jesse Cool, Flea Street Café City of San José Timm Borden, Public Works Department Dave Mitchell, Parks, Rec. & Neighborhood Services (Parks Planning) Marybeth Harasz, Parks, Rec. & Neighborhood Services (Capital Projects Program) Matt Cano, Parks, Rec. & Neighborhood Services (Capital Projects Program) Regina R. Aning, Parks, Rec. & Neighborhood Services (former Park Facility Supervisor for Emma Prusch Farm Park) Alex Pearson, Parks, Rec. & Neighborhood Services (Emma Prusch Farm Park) Yves Zsutty, Parks, Rec. & Neighborhood Services (City Trails Program) 94 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xiv John Brazil, Department of Transportation Bicycle Program Linden Skjeie, Environmental Services Department, Office of Sustainability Akoni Danielson, Planning Services Division (Long-range planning) Morgan Hill Unified School District Vera Gomes, Ann Sobrato High School Santa Clara County Janet Leader, Public Health Department Susan Stuart, Public Health Department Susan Karlins, Public Health Department Bill Shoe, Department of Planning & Development Ken Schreiber, Santa Clara Valley Habitat Plan Program Greg Van Wassenhove, Department of Agriculture & Environmental Management Kevin O' Day, Division of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture & Environmental Management Patrick Love, County Executive Office Special Projects Program Naresh Duggal, County Integrated Pest Management Program Fletcher Dobbs, Division of Animal Care & Control, Department of Agriculture & Environmental Management Ben Gale, Department of Environmental Health Dana Peak, Historic Preservation Program and Williamson Act Program Michelle DeRobertis, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) Anita Parsons, Office of Education (Walden West Environmental Education) Michelle Mount, Office of Education 95 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xv City/County Agencies Molly Sealund, Merritt College Landscape Horticulture Neelima Palacherla, Local Area Formation Commission (LAFCo) Regional Agencies East Bay Regional Park District Brad Olson, Parks Administration Headquarters Ira Bletz, Ardenwood Historic Farm Yvonne Provaznik, Ardenwood Historic Farm Santa Clara County Open Space Authority Patrick Congdon, Open Space Authority Rachel Santos, Open Space Authority Santa Clara Valley Water District Sue Tippets, Community Projects Review Unit Colleen Haggerty, Community Projects Review Unit Judy Ingols, Vegetation Management Unit State Agencies Maria de la Fuente, UC Cooperative Extension - Santa Clara County Fe Moncloa, UC Cooperative Extension – Santa Clara County Hans Toensfeldt, UC Cooperative Extension 4-H Program – Santa Clara County Michael Kent, UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners Program – Santa Clara County Aziz Baameur, UC Cooperative Extension - Santa Clara County Sheila Barry, UC Cooperative Extension Bay Area Natural Resources Mary Bartlett, UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners Program 96 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xvi Carole Frost, UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners Program Kristin Reynolds, UC Davis Small Farm Program Beth Thomas, California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) Aprile Smith, California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) Private and Non-Profit Organizations Alida J. Bray, History San Jose Pam Chueh, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, Public Affairs Aubrie Avina, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, Public Affairs Elizabeth Sills, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, Public Affairs Libby Lucas, California Native Plant Society Michelle Beasley, Greenbelt Alliance Rhonda Berry, Our City Forest Ralph W. Schardt, Michael Lee Environmental Foundation Robin Grossinger, San Francisco Estuary Institute Susan Stansbury, Conexions Mr. Walter Cottle Lester's Agents/Representatives Dave Giordano, Giordano Farms E. Project Team County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department Jane Mark, Project Manager/Senior Planner Lisa Killough, Director Julie Mark, Deputy Director, Administration Jim O'Connor, Deputy Director, Operations & Maintenance 97 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xvii Matt Anderson, Chief Park Ranger/Park Operations Manager Craig Crawford, Central Yard Field Support Manager Kelly Klett, Interim Park Maintenance Program Manager/Management Analyst Mark Frederick, Construction Services Capital Projects Manager Ed Souza, Customer & Business Services Manager Rose Geraci, Administrative Support Officer III Kathleen Hooper, Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Robin Schaut, Interpretive Program Supervisor Don Rocha, Natural Resources Management Program Supervisor Tamara Clark-Shear, Public Information Officer/Management Analyst Eric Goodrich, Supervising Park Ranger Julie Lee, Senior Park Ranger Gina Ellis, Park Ranger, Hellyer Unit George Santiago, Park Maintenance Supervisor, formerly Region 2 Henry Texeira. Park Maintenance Supervisor, Region 2 Anthony Sanchez, Senior Park Maintenance Worker, Hellyer Unit John Patterson, Project Unit Supervisor, Maintenance Program Mary Berger, Park Interpreter Kimberly Brosseau, Park Planner Elish Ryan, Park Planner California State Parks Dave Keck, General Plan Program Manager / Senior Landscape Architect Ellie Wagner, Associate Landscape Architect, General Plan Section Kenneth Gray, Section Leader, Monterey District Mathew Fuzie, District Superintendent, Monterey District Patricia Clark-Gray, District Interpretive Specialist, Monterey District 98 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xviii Matt Bischoff, Historian III Eddie Guaracha, Sector Superintendent, Gavilan Sector of Monterey District Rae Schwaderer, Associate Archaeologist, Monterey District Mr. Walter Cottle Lester's Agents/Representatives Frank Giordano Craig Giordano, Alternate County Board of Supervisors, District 1 Representative (Supervisor Don Gage) John Gibbs, Chief of Staff Rachael Gibson, Policy Aide Santa Clara County Open Space Authority Rachel Santos, Planner II Consultant Team Design, Community and Environment Sarah Sutton, Principal-in-Charge Isabelle Minn, Project Manager Steve Noack, Principal Isby Swick, Project Landscape Designer/Planner Lisa Katz, Planner 2M Associates Patrick Miller, Principal Jane Miller, Principal 99 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xix Sustainable Agriculture Education (SAGE) Sibella Kraus, President Hexagon Transportation Consulting Robert Del Rio, Principal Associate Mike Waller, Vice President and Principal Associate Balance Hydrologics Barry Hecht, Principal Jennie Munster, Ph.D. Economic & Planning Systems (EPS) Jason Moody, Principal Rebecca Benassini, Senior Associate F. Agriculture Advisors Dave Coke, Coke Farms Dave Giordano, Giordano Farms at Cottle Ranch Sam Earnshaw, Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF) Paul Muller, Full Belly Farms Kevin O’Day, County Division of Agriculture, Deputy Agricultural Commissioner, South County Peter Rudnik, Small Farmer at Large Andy Mariani, Andy’s Orchards Victor Roth, California State Parks, Santa Cruz District Santa Clara County Farm Bureau Nicole De La Rosa, Manager 100 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS xx Jenny Derry, Former Executive Director and current Political Action Director Russ Bonino, LJB Farms, San Martin Tim Chiala, George Chiala Farms, Inc., Morgan Hill G. Photo Credits Sam Earnshaw, CAFF (all hedgerow photographs) 101 1 1 INTRODUCTION “The past is our definition. We may strive, with good reason, to escape it, or to escape what is bad in it, but we will escape it only by adding something better to it.” – Wendell Berry A. Introduction to the Park Unit Martial Cottle Park (the Park) is comprised of two ownerships: the Martial Cottle Park State Recreation Area (136.52 acres) and the County-owned Mar- tial Cottle Park (120.12 acres). Currently not part of the Park is a Life Estate Area (30.9 acres) owned by Walter Cottle Lester (the Donor) that will ulti- mately become part of the Park. The County and State parcels are located immediately adjacent to each other, and have been joined into a single entity for the purposes of cohesive planning and operations. This document pre- sents information on these parks, which together constitute the Park. The Park is to be developed and operated as a historical agricultural park by the County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department (County Parks) and the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation (California State Parks) under a Joint Powers and Operating Agreement (see Appendix A). The Park is within State Park’s Monterey District, which currently manages over 22 park units including State beaches, historic parks, and a conference center. 1. Location and Regional Context The Park lies within the northern portion of the Santa Clara Valley in an unincorporated area of Santa Clara County (County), as shown in Figure 1-1. The Santa Clara Valley’s highly fertile soil once supported agricultural activi- ties throughout the County. Today few pockets of agricultural land remain in the County, which has mostly been converted to urban uses. The Park, once adjacent to other agricultural uses, is now surrounded by a suburban area of the City of San José and is bound by arterial roads to the north and east, a collector street to the south, and residential uses to the west. The Diablo Mountain Range as viewed from the Park Residential property bordering the Park 102 R E G I O N A L L O C A T I O N F I G U R E I -1 Source: Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Depar tment,April 2008, Mar tial Cottle Park Final Resource Inventor y, page I-5. M A R T I A L C O T T L E P A R K S T A T E P A R K G E N E R A L P L A N A N D C O U N T Y P A R K M A S T E R P L A N D R A F T F I N A L 103 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 3 The City of San José offers several neighborhood park facilities in close prox- imity to the Park, including Parkview III Park, Vista Park, Chynoweth Neighborhood Park, Coy Park, and Edenvale Garden Park. County Park facilities in close proximity to the Park include the 15-mile-long Coyote Creek Parkway County Park (1,613 acres) and Hellyer County Park (223 acres), approximately 2 miles to the east; Santa Teresa County Park (1,568 acres), approximately 2 miles to the southeast; and Almaden Quicksilver County Park (3,943 acres), approximately 3 miles southwest of the Park. The closest State Park is Henry W. Coe State Park (87,000 acres), which is ap- proximately 20 miles southeast of the Park. 2. History of the Park The Park is significant in local history because it has been used for agriculture in the Santa Clara Valley by the Cottle family and their descendents, the Les- ter family, for approximately 150 years, extending from 1864 to the present. The property was originally part of José Joaquin Bernal family’s extensive Rancho Santa Teresa. In 1864 it was purchased by Edward Cottle who later deeded 350 acres to his son, Martial Cottle. Martial Cottle used the property for cattle, grain, and row crops. Martial married Edith Cottle and had five children, including Ethel Edith Cottle who married Henry W. Lester in July, 1914. Martial eventually left the property to his daughter, Ethel Cottle Les- ter, who envisioned someday preserving the land for public use in her father’s name. Ethel Cottle Lester was the mother of the Donor, Walter Cottle Les- ter and his sister, Edith Ethel Lester. In 1977 upon Ethel’s passing, the ranch went to Edith and Walter Lester. Edith Lester died in 1999, leaving Walter the sole owner. He continued to keep the ranch in production, raising hay, barley, and other crops and planted a small orchard near the house. In the fall of 2004, Walter Cottle Lester (the Donor) transferred the land to the State and the County to create an agricultural park to promote, educate, and sustain farming traditions in the Santa Clara Valley in accordance with the wishes of Ethel Lester. At that time, a 32.2-acre portion of the property 104 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 4 was reserved as a Life Estate by the Donor. Subsequently, the Estate’s 1.3- acre parcel was transferred to the County resulting in a 30.9-acre Life Estate. 3. Access The Park is easily accessed via Highway 87 (Guadalupe Freeway), Highway 101, and Highway 85. The Blossom Hill Road exit from Highway 85 is the nearest highway interchange, approximately a half-mile from the site, as shown in Figure 1-2. Local access to the Park is provided via two major arte- rials, Branham Lane on the north and Snell Avenue on the east. Chynoweth Avenue offers access to the south side of the site, and three other streets dead- end adjacent to the west side of the site: Vistapark Drive, Wellington Park Drive, and Gaundabert Lane. Pedestrian facilities on the streets surrounding the Park are limited to sidewalks along the eastern length of Snell Avenue, the north side of Branham Lane, and the south side of Chynoweth Avenue. There are on-street bike lanes on Snell Avenue and Branham Lane around the perimeter of the Park. The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) and Caltrain provide transit service to the site. The VTA operates fixed route, commuter, and paratransit bus service and light rail service (LRT) in Santa Clara County. The nearest bus stops to the Park are located on Snell Avenue immediately east of the site. The Blossom Hill light rail station is located immediately south of the site and the Blossom Hill Caltrain station is located approxi- mately 2 miles from the site. A chainlink fence around the site’s perimeter restricts access into the Park. Locked gates on Branham Lane, Snell Avenue, and Chynoweth Avenue allow only maintenance access into the site from these streets. The Santa Clara Val- ley Water District (SCVWD) also has access to the maintenance roads along Canoas Creek via gates at Hyde Park Drive to the west of the site and Blos- som Hill Road to the south of the site, but not into other parts of the site. Existing signal on Branham Lane Entrance to Blossom Hill light rail Station 105 C anoas Creek F I G U R E 1 -2 S I T E C O N T E X T M A R T I A L C O T T L E P A R K S T A T E P A R K G E N E R A L P L A NAND C O U N T Y P A R K M A S T E R P L A NDRAFT F I N A L 0 490 980 Feet State Route 85 Chynoweth Avenue Branham Lane Snell AvenueLife Estate Area Blossom Hill VTA Station Branham Plaza Martial Cottle Park Sunrise PlazaState Route 87S t a t e R o u t e 8 2 Gunderson High School Hayes Elementary Chynoweth Avenue Vista Park Edenvale Garden ParkVistapark Dri ve106 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 6 No public access is currently permitted to the Park, with the exception of a Christmas tree farm that is still being operated on-site that sells Christmas trees directly to the public. The produce stand located on Snell Avenue pro- vides limited public access to the Life Estate Area during business hours. 4. Site Characteristics The Park is generally rectangular in shape with a “panhandle” that extends from the southwest corner, as shown in Figure 1-2. The land consists primar- ily of flat, open fields that are seasonally cultivated for agricultural production and weed control. Mature vegetation consists of eight valley oaks of various sizes that are scattered through the eastern portion of the Park as well as val- ley oaks, orchards and a variety of ornamental trees in the Life Estate Area. The large area of open farmland within a highly-developed, urban area makes the site an unusual geographic feature of significance. Another significant topographic feature is Canoas Creek which flows northward, paralleling the site’s southeastern perimeter and then trends northwesterly across the pan- handle and through the adjoining neighborhood where it drains into the Guadalupe River, and eventually the San Francisco Bay. Through the Park, the Canoas Creek channel is an engineered trapezoidal channel with a low- flow concrete lining that accommodates the flood management requirements of the SCVWD. Intermittent maintenance, which is required to maintain the flood conveyance capacity of the channel, prevents significant natural vegeta- tion and habitat from establishing. Standing structures on the Park include a pump house and various infrastruc- ture improvements associated with agriculture and production (e.g. water wells, septic system, irrigation lines, fencing, etc.). Most of the Park’s historic structures and buildings such as the main ranch residence, barns, sheds, shanty, carriage house, granary, and other structures are located within the Life Estate Area which is not available to the public at this time. Existing Christmas tree farm north of Chynoweth Avenue 107 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 7 There are no recreational uses on the site. However, the existing Christmas tree farm on the Park and the produce stand in the Life Estate Area provide opportunities for public engagement. 5. Purpose Acquired The Donor agreed to sell and transfer 255.54 acres of his family ranch to Cali- fornia State Parks and Santa Clara County Parks in 2003 in order to promote and sustain farming traditions thereby displaying the agricultural heritage of Santa Clara County from the mid 1800s to the present. An additional 32-acre portion of the property was reserved as a Life Estate Area by the Donor and, according to the property transfer agreement, will become part of Martial Cottle Park upon the Donor’s passing. In accordance with the Property Transfer Agreement, 1.3 acres of the Life Estate Area reverted to the County on December 31, 2008, thereby leaving 30.9 acres in the Life Estate Area for the exclusive use and enjoyment of the Donor. The Life Estate Area is not part of the State Park General Plan/County Park Master Plan (the Plan) proc- ess and therefore detailed programming will not be included in this docu- ment. The Donor’s vision for Martial Cottle Park is that it be jointly developed, operated, and maintained as one park. Allowable uses as stipulated in the Donation Agreement/Grant Deeds for both California State Parks and County Parks include agricultural leases, farmers’ markets, produce stands, community gardens, educational programs related to agriculture, and passive recreational activities such as picnicking and trail uses. Martial Cottle Park is a collaborative effort between California State Parks and County Parks. Together, these two agencies will create a park of local, regional, and statewide significance within the urban service area of San José that will reflect the vision of the Donor, heir of the Martial Cottle family ranch, and will capture a significant period in the development of post-rancho agricultural history in California. 108 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 8 6. Sense of Place Each of California’s State parks inspire a unique sense of place. Most visitors begin to sense the essence of a park when they first enter the park environ- ment – the feeling of being in a special place set aside in perpetuity to preserve and protect a set of extraordinary values. This awareness of a certain place often leads to a sense of belonging and reconnection. State parks offer visitors opportunities to reconnect to the natural world and our cultural heritage, providing lasting impressions and memorable experiences. The Park is a rare example of Santa Clara Valley family farm and ranchland, in what is now an almost entirely urbanized area of the City of San José. The dramatic contrast between the Park and the developed, fast paced urban landscape that surrounds it conjures a unique experience and sense of place. In the early 1900s, the site itself would have blended with a rural farmland. Today, expansive fields dominate the site, interrupted only by specimen ma- jestic oaks. The site distinctly contrasts with the adjacent houses, retail and commercial uses, and arterial roads. In addition to natural beauty, views into and from within the Park offer the visitor a unique glimpse into the region’s past. Views afforded into the prop- erty from surrounding roads and residences are dominated by fallow fields and scattered oaks. From within the Park, the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo range are visible to the south and east, respectively. These mountains, which are difficult to see from surrounding urban areas, provide regional con- text as well as a peaceful backdrop to the Park’s agricultural activities. The establishment of the site’s identity as “Martial Cottle Park” will protect this glimpse into the past as well as viable farmland that will contribute to the region’s future. Mature Valley Oaks frame views of the Santa Cruz Mountains to the south Expansive fields that dominate the site Signage on Branham Lane directs the public towards the exiting Produce Stand 109 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 9 B. Purpose of the Plan County Parks will manage and operate the State-owned and the County- owned portions of the Park as one park unit. The purpose of this combined Plan is to provide guidelines and policies for the development, operation and maintenance of the Park as one park. By combining the State Park General Plan and County Park Master Plan into one document, this document avoids redundant efforts and ensures consistency between California State Parks and County Parks goals and guidelines. State Park General Plans are broad, goal-oriented plans which serve as the primary management documents for park units within the California State Park System. General Plans define the purpose, vision, and a management direction for the future, but typically do not include specific objectives and strategies for implementation. County Park Master Plans tend to include more detail by including specific guidelines for development and operations. This combined State Park General Plan and County Park Master Plan (“the Plan”) establishes the broad vision and long-term direction for the Park, as well as the specific implementation policies and guidelines that will guide the County in manifesting the vision for the Park. C. Organization of the Plan The first four chapters of the Plan provide an overview of the park unit and establish broad goals and guidelines. Chapters 5 through 11 provide further detail to guide the development, management, and operations the Park. A brief description of each chapter is provided below. Executive Summary identifies the intent of the Plan and highlights the Plan’s key features. Chapter 1 – Introduction gives an overview of the background and exist- ing character of the Park, and describes the intended purpose of the Park and the combined Plan. 110 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 10 Chapter 2 – Existing Conditions identifies the agricultural, natural, cul- tural, interpretive, recreational and aesthetic resources of the Park. This information provides the foundation to understand specific Park issues. Chapter 3 – Issues and Analysis describes the assumptions that guide the planning for the Park, parkwide issues, and specific area issues. Chapter 4 – Park Plan presents the purpose, vision, and classification that will guide the Park’s development. This chapter also describes the vision for the Park at buildout, provides parkwide and specific area goals and guidelines, and assesses the Park’s carrying capacity. Chapter 5 – Implementation and Beyond identifies implementation strategies and potential partners, summarizes financial implications of implementing the plan, and presents a phasing strategy. This chapter also describes planning work that will take place after the adoption of this Plan and initial action items for the County and its partners. Chapter 6 – Design Guidelines provides specific guidelines for the devel- opment of park components. Chapter 7 – Glossary defines key terms and commonly used acronyms. Chapter 8 – References lists information sources utilized in the prepara- tion of this document. A Project/Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is being prepared for the project as a separate document. D. The Planning Process This section describes key phases of the planning process, the groups formed to guide the planning process, and meetings conducted as part of the process, including public workshops. Opportunities were provided for the public to be involved in all phases of the planning process through participation at regular Task Force meetings, at community workshops, County Parks and 111 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 11 Recreation Commission meetings, State Park and Recreation Commission meeting, County’s Housing, Land Use, Environment and Transportation Committee meeting, and County Board of Supervisors meeting that were scheduled at key milestones in the process, as described below. The public was also invited to inform the park development by reviewing draft planning documents available on-line at the California State Parks and the County Parks’ respective websites, contacting the County Parks directly via mail, e- mail, facsimile or phone. The Consultant team and County Parks distributed comment forms at each of the public workshop. Comments collected via these means have been recorded and shared with the community, and are in- cluded in Appendix A. 1. Planning Phases/Milestones This report fulfills the State’s requirements for the General Plan and the County’s requirements for a Park Master Plan. A Program and Project-Level EIR will be a prepared and reviewed separately as part of the planning proc- ess. The planning process for this Plan, will determine appropriate uses, ac- cess points and management objectives for the Park. The six phases of the planning process and key project milestones are described below. a. Project Initiation: Agricultural Parks Case Studies Report The first phase of the planning process focused on data collection and the development of an agricultural parks case studies report that would inform subsequent phases of the process. b. Understanding the Site and Planning Context: Resource Inventory Report A resources team prepared the Martial Cottle Park Resource Inventory based on research and field investigations, and the evaluation of the Park’s physical, biological, cultural, recreational, and aesthetic resources. The report provides a body of information on Park’s resources that provided the California State Park and Recreation Commission with the necessary information to approve the recommended classification, as specified in Article 1.7 of the Public Re- sources Code. 112 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 12 c. Defining the Vision: Program Document The document summarizes key project attributes important to the continuing planning effort, including: the Donor’s vision serving as the basis for planning and the park program; the project’s history; the site’s regional and regulatory context; the inventory and analysis of existing site conditions; the goals for the master plan; the potential park program elements that need to be explored further in design alternatives; and any opportunities or constraints to the de- velopment of recreational and educational activities or the conservation of natural and cultural resources. d. Design Development: Project Alternatives During the alternative development phase, three project alternatives were developed based on the concepts and ideas presented in the Program Docu- ment. The Project Team, Task Force, Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and community participants evaluated the alternatives. This evaluation led to the development of one preferred alternative that guides the Park Plan and will be studied as part of the environmental review of the project. e. Plan Development: General Plan/Master Plan The previous phases of the planning process and extensive community input culminated with the development of the Plan. This Plan will serve as the guiding document for the development and ongoing operations and manage- ment of the Park. f. Environmental Review: Environmental Impact Report State Park General Plans and County Park Master Plans are considered a pro- ject under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). An environ- mental review has been conducted in accordance with CEQA concurrently with the preparation of the Plan. During the planning process, alternatives were developed that identified a reasonable range of options for protecting resources and minimizing significant impacts while allowing certain specified uses. The public was invited to participate in the public scoping process, to review and comment on the EIR, and to attend public comment meetings. 113 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 13 The County Parks and Recreation Commission; the Board’s Housing, Land Use, Environment and Transportation (HLUET) Committee; the County Board of Supervisors; and the California State Park and Recreation Commis- sion will consider this Plan and the EIR jointly for adoption, with respect to their property ownership and jurisdiction under the Joint Powers and Oper- ating Agreement. 2. Advisory Groups and Project Meetings To ensure an inclusive and informed planning process, three groups were formed to assist and provide input to the plan: the Project Team, Task Force, and the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). Focused meetings with tech- nical advisors were also conducted during the planning process. These groups and the meetings they conducted are identified below. A list of all project meetings is provided in Appendix B and complete meeting summaries are available on the County Parks’ website (http://www.parkhere.org). a. Project Team The Project Team, consisting of County Parks and California State Parks staff, two County Parks Commissioners, the Donor’s representative, staff from the Office of Supervisor Don Gage, and staff from the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority, worked directly with the Consultant team and County Parks to assist in plan development, review documents, and assist with public outreach. The Project Team met eight times at key decision point throughout the planning process. b. Technical Advisory Committee The TAC consists of representatives from the many local, State, and federal agencies and potential partner organizations that may be affected by or in- volved in the development, regulation, and/or long-term operation of the Park. The purpose of the TAC is to identify and provide input on technical and operational concerns that need to be addressed in the Park Plan and envi- ronmental review process. The TAC met at six key decision points during the planning process. 114 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 14 c. Other Focused Technical Advisory Meetings As part of the planning process to develop the Park Plan, additional coordina- tion meetings were held to define and develop the agricultural programs at the Park, including discussions related to the Williamson Act Contract and Program guidelines and cooperative partnership areas in the youth agricul- tural areas of the Park. There were focused discussions with the City of San José regarding the proposed Park entry and roadway improvements and with the SCVWD regarding the enhancement of the Canoas Creek channel and the Water Supply Assessment. In addition, discussions with the Local Area For- mation Commission (LAFCO) addressed annexation requirements related to future connections to municipal services, such as sewer, were for future park improvements and uses. Twelve focused technical advisory meetings were conducted over the course of the planning process. d. Task Force The Task Force is an advisory group comprised of citizens and staff from state and local agencies whose purpose is to bring the diverse ideas and per- spectives of the community into the planning process. Members of the Task Force represent a range of community, agricultural and recreational groups that have an interest in the Park’s development. The Task Force met seven times during the planning process. e. Public Workshops The planning process included five public workshops, scheduled at key mile- stones. The intended purposes and outcomes of these workshops are summa- rized in Appendix B and meeting summaries are available on the County’s website (http://www.parkhere.org). f. Presentations/Progress Reports to Public Officials The planning process included presentations on the progress of the planning work to the County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Commission, the County of Santa Clara Historical Heritage Commission, County of Santa Clara’s Housing, Land Use, Environment and Transportation (HLUET) 115 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 15 Committee, County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors, and the California State Park and Recreation Commission, which were scheduled at key mile- stones. g. Other Public Meetings A public EIR scoping meeting was held in conjunction with Public Work- shop #4. In addition, a fifth workshop/public meeting was held to share in- formation on the Draft EIR during the 45-day public review and comment period and to provide he community with an additional opportunity to learn about the project and share comments. Public input on the issues addressed in the EIR was solicited during these meetings. h. Continued Public Involvement After the adoption/approval of the Plan, continued public involvement in planning and design development activities related to the Park will help to ensure that future decisions respond to the needs of the public. 116 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL INTRODUCTION 16 117 17 2 EXISTING CONDITIONS It's surprising how much memory is built around things unnoticed at the time. – Barbara Kingsolver The baseline resources and characteristics that define and embody Martial Cottle Park (the Park) suggest specific opportunities and constraints for park planning and development. This chapter provides an overview of the Park’s existing physical, biological, cultural, and aesthetic resources, as well as their planning implications. Additional information on these topics can be found in the Final Martial Cottle Park Master Plan Program Document and the Final Resources Inventory Report. This chapter also describes regulatory planning influences from the federal to local level. The overview of opportunities and constraints provided by this chapter is complemented by Chapter 3, which describes key issues in further detail. A. Project Summary 1. Existing Land Use The uses of the Park have not changed dramatically since the Cottle family began farming the land nearly 150 years ago, as most of the Park consists of farm lands that continue to be dry farmed with hay and other grains. The Park property is located within unincorporated Santa Clara County, sur- rounded on all sides by incorporated areas of the City of San José, and desig- nated by the County as an urban service area within the City. The County’s General Plan does not apply land use designations or classifications of pre- scriptive land uses and densities to urban service areas. In order to ensure that development permitted under County jurisdiction is generally in confor- mance with what would be permitted according to each city’s general plan, the County applies zoning districts and development regulations compatible with the applicable city’s general plan designation. The City land use attrib- uted to the Park is Public Park and Open Space and the County zoning is Exclusive Agriculture (A-20). The Life Estate Area, located east of the Park, 118 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 18 includes the Donor’s residence as well and approximately 25 acres of actively- farmed land. 2. Surrounding Land Use City-designated land uses in the vicinity of the Park include a mix of single- family and multiple-family residential housing and commercial land uses. Medium Low Density Residential is the predominant land use in the area, as is typical for single-family suburban development within the city. Pockets of multiple-family housing are located on all sides of the Park and are designated as either Medium Density Residential or Medium High Density Residential by the City of San José General Plan. There are several designated Neighborhood/Community Commercial areas within short distances of the site, including Branham Plaza and Sunrise Plaza, as shown in Figure 1-2. Branham Plaza, which consists of various retail shops, restaurants, a bank, and a gas station, is located across Branham Lane opposite the northeastern corner of the site. Sunrise Plaza, which consists of retail shops, a dry cleaners, restaurants, and gas station, is located approxi- mately 0.25 mile south of the Park. 3. Ownership and Easements As discussed in Chapter 1, the State of California and the County of Santa Clara jointly own Martial Cottle Park. The sale and transfer of property from the remaining heir (the Donor) to the County and the State, negotiated over a 30-year period, was finalized in 2004 when the Donor transferred the site to the State of California (136.52 acres) and the County of Santa Clara (151.02 acres). At that time the Donor reserved 32 acres as a Life Estate Area for himself. On December 31, 2008, 1.3 acres of the Life Estate Area reverted to the County, as stipulated in the Property Transfer Agreement. As shown in Figure 2-1, the State of California owns the western and southern portion of the site and the County owns the eastern and northern portions of the site. Deed stipulations for the Park are discussed below in Section C, Planning Influences. Residential neighborhood Residential development south of the Park along Chynoweth Avenue Branham Plaza as viewed from the Park 119 #* !> !>!>!>!> !> !>!> !> !> !> !> !>!> !>} F I G U R E 2 -1 P R O J E C T S I T E M A R T I A L C O T T L E P A R K S T A T E P A R K G E N E R A L P L A NAND C O U N T Y P A R K M A S T E R P L A NDRAFT F I N A L 0 350 700 Feet }Bridge !>Gates #*Pumphouse Wood Fence Chainlink Fence County/S tate Proper ty Line !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Easements Martial Cottle Park State Route 85 Chynoweth Avenue Branham Lane Snell AvenueState of California Property County of Santa Clara Property City of San Jose Sewer Easement City of San Jose Sewer Easement Canoas Creek (SCVWD Easement) Snell Pipeline (SCVWD) and PG&E Easements Life Estate Area 120 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 20 There are several easements on the Park property, including the Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) easement along Canoas Creek and Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and SCVWD easements along Snell Avenue for the Snell Pipeline and utilities along the western boundary of the site. SCVWD must issue a permit for any work to take place within their easements prior to construction. In addition to these easements, there are two vacant parcels in close proximity the Park that are privately owned. These parcels include the 2.34-acre SCVWD-owned parcel adjacent to the southeast corner of the property’s panhandle, which may potentially complement the Park mission, programs, and physical character; and a 0.75-acre privately-owned property on the cor- ner of Snell Avenue and Chynoweth Avenue, which could potentially be developed to be incompatible with park uses. 4. Park Support The County of Santa Clara Department of Parks and Recreation (County Parks) will oversee park development, operations, and maintenance for the State and County parcels of the Park. California State Parks will assist with grant applications and the agricultural interpretive programs and facilities when budget permits, in accordance with the Joint Powers and Operating Agreement described in Section C, below. In addition, community groups, nonprofit organizations and agencies may assist in park operations, mainte- nance, education and interpretation at the Park. These supporting associa- tions may include: Agencies. Agencies that are guided by missions and policies that com- plement those of the Park may support park programming and develop- ment as it pertains to that common interest. For instance, SCVWD may support uses that enhance wetland habitat while the City of San José may support uses that provide services for city residents. Non-Profit and Private Organizations. Non-profit organizations may support the Park in a variety of capacities, from providing grant funding, volunteer labor to operating park programs. Potential partner organiza- 121 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 21 tions include but are not limited to organizations such as the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE), the Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association, and Our City Forest. Neighborhood Associations and Community Groups. There are several neighborhood associations and community groups within close prox- imity to the Park that may be interested in participating in park pro- gramming, maintenance, and operations as volunteers. Such groups in- clude, but are not limited to, neighborhood and community associations and local school groups. B. Significant Resource Values 1. Physical Resources This section describes the physical resources that shape the Park and their influence on park planning, development, and operations. a. Existing Conditions The Park’s topography, hydrologic conditions, geologic conditions, and soils are described below. This section provides an overview of existing conditions only. i. Topography The Park sits on the easterly side of the Santa Clara Valley floor. The site is relatively flat, with elevations ranging from approximately 155 to 165 feet across a gentle cross-slope down from the east and west to Canoas Creek. Canoas Creek, a channelized tributary to the Guadalupe River, parallels the southeastern perimeter of the Park and then trends northwesterly, bisecting the panhandle portion of the site. ii. Hydrology The Park is located within the Guadalupe River watershed, which encom- passes approximately 170 square miles and drains north into San Francisco 122 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 22 Bay. Canoas Creek collects drainage from the Park and surrounding area and transports flows to the main channel of the Guadalupe River northwest of the site. The Park is located within the Santa Clara Valley aquifer. As with most of the tributaries within the valley floor area, Canoas Creek was channelized in the late 1960s to alleviate flooding and to convert marshy areas both upstream and downstream of the site into developable land. Re- aligned and contained in the late 1890s or early 1900s, the creek is now con- tained in a trapezoidal channel with concrete bottom and earthen sides. The bottom of the creek channel is 12 feet wide, and the top of the channel is ap- proximately50 feet wide from bank-to-bank. The estimated depth of the trapezoidal channel from the top of bank to the creek bottom is 12 feet. The Park’s hydrologic features and water quality are described below. Flooding. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) prepared in conjunction with the Federal Flood Insurance Program show the Park as being located in an area of “undetermined, but possible, flood hazard.” Groundwater. The Park is located above the Santa Clara Subbasin of the Santa Clara Groundwater Basin (San Francisco Bay Hydraulic Region). Groundwater depth in the Park vicinity ranges between approximately 12 to 25.22 feet below ground surface,1 which appears to be consistent with groundwater depth within the Park. Groundwater in the Santa Clara Valley aquifer is of good quality, is relatively uniform, and is cur- rently considered suitable for most beneficial uses. A search of data near the Park also confirms the good water quality locally. Three off-site wells located within a 2-mile radius of the Park operated by the SCVWD that were analyzed seven times from 2002 through 2008 indicate good water quality.2,3 In addition, water from a well on the Life Estate property was 1 Balance Hydrologics, Inc., 2009, Existing Conditions of Hydrology Draft Report for Martial Cottle Park. 2 Balance Hydrologics, Inc., 2009, Existing Conditions of Hydrology Draft Report for Martial Cottle Park. Canoas Creek channel Bridge over Canoas Creek channel 123 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 23 tested in 2009. This test, which was conducted because the well on the State-owned portion of the Park was in disrepair and could not be tested, is assumed to be indicative of water from the well in the Park. This test indicated good water quality, with none of the trace elements analyzed appearing to be a concern for irrigation waters according to the guidelines established by the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) Basin Plan. Surface Water Quality. Water quality tests were conducted within the Park in 2004 to determine the potential effects of the historic farming ac- tivity on surface water and ground water quality. Surface water samples collected from Canoas Creek showed levels of oil and grease, arsenic, volatile organic compounds, and pesticides to be below reporting limits, and no constituents were reported above laboratory reporting limits from the well samples collected. Water quality was sampled in Canoas Creek in September 2009 found that both total coliforms and E. coli were pre- sent. 4 ,5 iii. Geology Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the Park is in a region of significant seismic activity and geotechnical instability and there is the potential for earthquakes to occur. The major faults in vicinity of the Park are the San Andreas Fault, the Hayward and Calaveras faults. The Park, particularly the area with poorly drained soils, is also located within a liquefaction hazard zone. 3 The wells analyzed are not located in the Park or the Life Estate Area. 4 Balance Hydrologics, Inc., 2009, Existing Conditions of Hydrology Draft Report for Martial Cottle Park. 5 Coliforms were analyzed on a present/not present basis. Further testing would be required to determine whether the level of coliforms present is within regu- latory standards. The Park’s soil is highly suitable for agriculture 124 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 24 iv. Soils Soils in the Santa Clara Valley primarily consist of clay in the low-lying areas, loam and gravelly loam in the upper portions of the valley, and eroded rocky clay loam in the hills. The clay soils that make up the majority of the valley floor, including the Park, are derived from alluvial deposits from the sur- rounding and upstream geological formations. The suitability of the Park’s soils for agricultural uses was evaluated during the planning process based on several sources, including soil maps prepared by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service, farmland classification identified by the Santa Clara County Important Farmland Map, water well logs and first- hand experience shared by the Donor, and soils tests conducted in 2008. The information and data provided by these sources indicates that the Park’s soil is highly suitable for agriculture, yet that drainage may be an issue in some areas of the Park. b. Opportunities The Park’s existing physical resources suggest the following opportunities for Park development: The Park’s Mediterranean climate, relatively flat terrain, and fertile soils render it appropriate for agricultural uses. Areas of the Park with fertile, well-drained soil provide potential for growing agricultural crops. Areas of poorly drained soils located through the mid-section of the Park present opportunities to re-establish native vegetation (e.g. seasonal wet- lands) that are endemic to such conditions, incorporate recreation uses that are not dependent on good drainage, and develop community gar- dens in above-grade beds. The Park’s active well, located on the State-owned parcel, will provide substantial water for park development. 125 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 25 c. Constraints The Park’s existing physical resources indicate the following constraints for park development: Well water may not be appropriate for potable water for public health and safety reasons. The Park may need to connect to the municipal water system for potable water. Long-term water availability is a potential constraint. 2. Biological Resources Although most of the Park has been used for agricultural purposes over the last 150 years, the site continues to provide habitat for both native and non- native plant and animal species. The development of the Park will consider these existing habitat areas as well as the potential for habitat enhancements. This section describes the existing plant and animal life in the Park as well the opportunities and constraints that stem from their presence. a. Existing Conditions Existing plant and animal life are described below. i. Plant Life Due to prolonged agricultural use, the natural plant communities once exis- tent on the site no longer exist. Vegetation in the Park prior to agricultural use would likely have been classified as a valley oak savanna, characterized by valley oaks and grasslands intermixed with shrubs and other oak and tree spe- cies. No rare, threatened, endangered, or other special-status plant species are known to occur in the Park. However, eight mature valley oak trees are dis- persed in the open fields on the eastern half of the property or located around the perimeter of the historic ranch compound. These trees are the only rem- nants of the valley oak savanna plant community that once characterized the site. Exotic-invasive plant species observed at the Park include wild oats, Italian thistle, yellow star-thistle, perennial pepperweed, Harding grass, and Himala- Valley Oak in northeast portion of the Park Vegetation bordering the Life Estate 126 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 26 yan blackberry. At the time of survey, the most notable vegetation growing in the nearly barren fields was non-native field bindweed. Other plant species observed consisted of beets, salt heliotrope, and sacred thornapple. Soils that seasonally pond water and Canoas Creek may be subject to regula- tion under Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act or the State of Cali- fornia’s Porter-Cologne Act. While recent disking and the historic farming have eliminated most of the natural vegetation cover in the portion of the site with seasonally ponding soils, one of the plants found growing in this area, salt heliotrope, is classified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) as an obligate wetland plant. Water within the Canoas Creek channel seems to have no influence on the Park’s vegetation. ii. Animal Life Wildlife habitat within the Park is typical of rural areas with fallowed fields and scattered mature oak trees. As a whole, the diversity of animal species present on-site is limited due to the Park’s location, which is surrounded by development and isolated from larger tracts of open space. This section de- scribes wildlife observed in specific habitats. Valley Oaks and Other Trees. The mature valley oaks and other trees onsite provide habitat for many animal species, including white-tailed kite, a State-protected species, and red-tailed hawks. Fallow Fields. The fallowed fields on-site provide foraging habitat for several animal species that are commonly found in rural areas such as non-native field bindweed and morning glory. Portions of the fields that pond water may provide a seasonal water source for animals such as Pa- cific treefrog, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Canoas Creek. Numerous animal species occur near Canoas Creek. Pa- cific (western) pond turtles, a California species of special concern, occur in the vicinity of the Park and may also inhabit Canoas Creek. The fed- erally threatened California red-legged frog, chinook salmon, and steel- 127 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 27 head are unlikely to occur in the on-site portions of Canoas Creek due to the marginal habitat conditions present. On-Site Structures. Bats, black phoebes, barn owls, mourning doves, swallows, and other birds could nest and/or roost in the existing build- ings on or adjacent to the site, including those within the Life Estate Area. Other Wildlife. A peregrine falcon, a State-endangered and fully pro- tected species, was observed flying over the Park. No suitable nesting habitat occurs on the site, but this falcon may forage here. Introduced animal species observed or expected on-site consist of the red fox, house sparrow, rock pigeon, ring-necked pheasant, and European starling. It is also likely that a range of other non-native fish and invertebrate species are present. Non-native invasive species are typically of concern in that they often displace and/or prey upon many native species. In addition to wildlife observed at the Park, there are numerous domestic and feral non-native animal species (i.e. pets such as cats and dogs) from surround- ing neighborhoods. b. Opportunities Opportunities related to existing and potential biological resources are listed below. Habitat. Consistent with the Donor’s vision, the opportunity exists to restore limited areas of native habitats typical of the southern Santa Clara Valley that could contribute to the Park’s educational programs. Valley Oaks. The existing mature valley oaks are key features of the Park that may offer attractive locations for park programming and/or potential for restoration of the natural oak savanna habitat that existed on the site prior to cultivation. Riparian Habitat. The Canoas Creek channel may offer the opportunity for creek enhancement that would improve its habitat potential, visual 128 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 28 character, recreational amenity value, and educational and interpretive value while still performing its required hydrologic function. Seasonal Wetlands. The area with poor-draining soils provides suitable conditions to support restoration of areas of seasonal wetlands, including reintroduction of rare wetland plants. Hawks. Red-tailed hawks and other birds of prey that currently nest or forage on-site provide an opportunity for the public to observe and ex- perience animals within a rural landscape. Wildlife. Supporting the re-establishment of some native wildlife in the Park’s more natural areas would provide an opportunity for the public to observe and experience the wildlife characteristics of a rural landscape. c. Constraints Constraints related to existing and potential biological resources are listed below. Valley Oaks. Park programming and land management will need to con- sider how to avoid adverse impacts to the existing mature valley oaks and allow for the growth of new oak trees to supplement and replace aging trees. Seasonal Wetlands. Soils on the site exhibit hydric field indicators and obligate hydrophytic plant species that are indicative of wetlands and other waters that may be subject to State and federal regulation. Devel- opment of future recreational and educational uses may require coordina- tion with regulatory agencies. Invasive Exotic Plants. Invasive exotic plant species, such as field bind- weed (Convolvulus arvensis) which is currently colonizing an area at the northwestern corner of the property, will need to be controlled or sup- pressed to accommodate agricultural uses in that part of the Park. Red Foxes. The red foxes that currently inhabit the site, while consid- ered an attractive feature by many neighbors, are a non-native species 129 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 29 that threaten establishment of native species such as burrowing owls and other native ground nesting birds. Domestic and Feral Wildlife. Domestic and feral non-native species, in- cluding pets, represent a potential threat to re-establishment of native wildlife to the site. The Park’s urban context necessitates that the rela- tionship between the Park’s existing and future wildlife and surrounding properties be considered. Hawks. Park improvements and programming needs to be sensitive to hawks and other raptors that nest in the Valley oaks and are sensitive to disturbance. Rodents. Some adjacent residents have commented on occasional influx of rodents. With more gardens and food crops proposed in the Park, an increase in rodents may be a potential management issue. Wildlife. Incorporation of wetland and turf areas into the design of the Park has the potential to attract Canada geese and the associated man- agement and health issues they bring (i.e. feces). 3. Cultural Resources The Park’s cultural resources are summarized in this section. These resources include archeological, historic and scenic resources. a. Existing Conditions This section describes the Park’s existing cultural and aesthetic resources. i. Archaeological Resources The Park and its vicinity are sensitive for both prehistoric and historic-period archaeological sites. Settlement pattern data from previous cultural resources studies of the area indicate that the favored locations for prehistoric village sites were at low elevations on the flat valley floor and terraces near rivers and main tributaries. It is possible that archaeological resources exist in relation to Canoas Creek, which was not always confined by a channel. In addition, 130 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 30 the geology of the Park vicinity contains Holocene aged alluvium in which prehistoric burials and sites have been identified. A field survey on January 15, 2008 found one prehistoric archaeological site, CA-SCL-295, in the southwest of the Park. It consists of a thin scatter of fire- fractured rock and Franciscan chert. ii. Historic Resources As discussed in Chapter 1, Introduction, the Park has a rich agricultural his- tory, having been farmed continuously by the Cottle and Lester families for nearly 150 years. In September 2009, the Park was inducted into the Califor- nia Agricultural Heritage Club for Cottle Ranch’s continued agricultural production in the State of California for over 125 years. While the majority of the historic resources are located in the Life Estate Area, these resources are not available to the County at this time. However, they attribute to the overall historic theme of the park’s identity and history. Within the County and the State-owned portions of the park, there exists a 1940s pump house, agricultural fields and large valley oaks, which are considered important re- sources and a key feature of the Park. Cottle Ranch is listed on the Santa Clara County Heritage Resource Inven- tory, and California State Parks has initiated the process of documenting the Ranch as an historic resource. b. Opportunities Opportunities related to the Park’s cultural resources are listed below. The history of the Cottle family, those who worked the land (including Japanese and Filipino immigrant farmers among others), the crops that were grown, and the livestock raised, all provide potential for interpreta- tion and education. Prehistoric and historic settlement patterns in Santa Clara Valley and in the vicinity of the site represent an opportunity to create interpretive and education programs. 131 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 31 c. Constraint The primary constraint related to the Park’s cultural resources is that, given the Park’s location along Canoas Creek and its proximity to a known cultural site, the Park may be a repository of both prehistoric and historic-period arti- facts. 4. Aesthetic Resources The Park represents a significant visual and scenic resource within its urban setting. Much of the Park’s scenic value is attributable to the site’s sparsely developed open character, and the sharp contrast that its rural agricultural use and improvements provide with the surrounding urbanized area. The Park’s open space setting affords visitors with visual relief from sur- rounding development, and thus serves as a focal visual feature for the neighborhood. In addition, the Park’s size, openness and flat topography allow for largely unimpeded views out from the site, including high quality views of the mountain ranges that flank the Santa Clara Valley. However, the urban development that surrounds the site on all sides significantly de- tracts from the area’s overall visual quality and conflicts with the rural, agri- cultural character of the property. a. Opportunities Opportunities related to the Park’s aesthetic resources are listed below. There is an opportunity to create an edge treatment for the Park that visually buffers the Park from external views and adjoining uses, and en- hances public views and reinforces a rural, agricultural character to the Park’s edge. The mature valley oaks located in the northeastern portion of the Park are dramatic visual features that contribute to the visual quality of the Park. The Canoas Creek channel provides an opportunity to create a more natural-appearing creek corridor. 132 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 32 b. Constraints Constraints related to the Park’s aesthetic resources are listed below. The proximity of existing development and the busy roadways create a need to buffer views from within the Park. The views into the backyards of homes adjacent to the west side of the Park create the potential for privacy conflicts between park visitors, agri- cultural partners and existing homeowners. There will be a need to pro- vide effective buffers to minimize potential privacy impacts for residents on the west side of the Park. There will be a need to provide effective buffers and strategic placement of maintenance yards and associated facilities (e.g. vehicle storage, irriga- tion lay-down areas, farm animal areas, etc.) to minimize potential visual, odor and noise impacts for adjacent residents. 5. Existing Facilities This section provides an overview of the Park’s limited existing facilities and describes their influence on the park planning process. a. Existing Conditions Existing facilities at the Park are limited to a pump house and various infra- structure improvements associated with the site’s agricultural activities, in- cluding water wells, a septic system, irrigation and fencing. The Park’s singular well is situated on the State-owned property north of Canoas Creek at the end of Chynoweth Avenue, which has supported farm- ing activities on the site, range from approximately 150 to 350 feet in depth and was drilled as early as 1929 to as recent as 1998. With the exception of the Life Estate Area, there are no septic systems within the Park. b. Opportunities Opportunities related to existing facilities are listed below. Existing pump house 133 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 33 The Park has one active well that may provide substantial water for the park development. Other active wells are located within the Life Estate Area, but they are not available for public use at this time. c. Constraints Given the urban context and future programmed uses for the property, the Plan will need to consider establishing a septic system and/or con- necting to the municipal sewer system. New facilities and infrastructure will need to be established. The active well within the Park will require repairs in order to be opera- tional. 6. Circulation The purpose of this section is to describe the existing circulation based on available data and from field observations, and to identify related opportuni- ties and constraints related to park planning and development. a. Existing Conditions Regional access to the Park is provided by Highway 101 and State Route 85. Highway 101, a major interstate highway that extends from Northern Cali- fornia to Southern California, is located approximately two miles east of the Park. State Route 85 (otherwise known as the West Valley Freeway) is a re- gional freeway that extends from the City of Mountain View to south San José, connecting into Highway 101 approximately three miles southeast of the Park. State Route 85 is located within close proximity to the Park, where a portion of the freeway is adjacent to the southern boundary of the Park, and provides access to the Park via the Blossom Hill Road interchange. In addition to its connection with Highway 101, State Route 85 provides re- gional connections to Interstate-280, State Route 17, and State Route 87. Local access in the vicinity of the Park is provided via the roadways described below. Snell Avenue borders the Park to the east 134 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 34 Snell Avenue is a four-lane north-south arterial roadway that extends north from State Route 85 to the Capitol Expressway, providing access to the Park from its eastern boundary. The posted speed limit along the segment of Snell Avenue adjacent to the Park is 40 miles per hour. Side- walks are limited to a segment of the east side of the road from Chynoweth Avenue to Branham Lane. There are northbound and southbound bike lanes on Snell Avenue. The intersections of Snell Ave- nue with Chynoweth Avenue and Branham Lane are signalized. All side- street accesses onto Snell Avenue are controlled by stop signs. Snell Ave- nue is slated to be widened on the Park property side. Branham Lane borders the Park to the north. This section of Branham Lane is a two lane east-west arterial extending from the Monterey High- way (State Route 82) west to the Guadalupe Parkway (State Route 87) and State Route 85. The speed limit in the vicinity of the project area is 40 miles per hour. Sidewalks are limited to the north side of Branham Lane from Snell Avenue to Vistapark Drive. There are eastbound and westbound bike lanes on Branham Lane. The intersections of Branham Avenue with Snell Avenue and Vistapark Drive are signalized. All side street accesses onto Branham Lane are controlled by stop signs. Branham lane is slated to be widened on the Park property side. Chynoweth Avenue is a four lane east-west collector street adjacent to the south side of the Park. Since the west end of Chynoweth Avenue termi- nates at the edge of the site’s panhandle, the street is used primarily as an access roadway to residential subdivisions and the neighborhood elemen- tary school located south of Chynoweth Avenue on Avenida Almendros. The speed limit in the vicinity of the project area is 40 miles per hour. Sidewalks are limited to the south side of Chynoweth Avenue. As noted above, the intersection of Chynoweth Avenue with Snell Avenue is sig- nalized. All side street accesses onto Chynoweth Avenue are controlled by stop signs. Blossom Hill Road is a six-lane east-west arterial south of the Park. Blos- som Hill Road has bicycle lanes in each direction. Future pedestrian and The Park and the Life Estate are visible from Snell Avenue 135 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 35 bicycle access from Blossom Hill Road to the Park may be provided via an existing underpass that was constructed under State Route 85. The City of San José has plans to widen Branham Lane and Snell Avenue in the future. The widening of these roads would alter the edge conditions of the Park, main vehicular park entry, as well as local circulation. Currently, the entire site is fenced and gated. Access to the Park is provided for Park Maintenance and Operations staff and emergency vehicles through two access gates located along the western boundary, two gated access points in the northeast portion of the site at Branham Lane, and four access gates along Snell Avenue. Two of the gates along Snell Avenue provide access to the produce stand and the associated storage yard; one gate provides direct access to the Life Estate Area and the northernmost gate accesses the PG&E easement. Two gates access the Life Estate Area from Chynoweth Avenue. Aside from unpaved roads used by the Donor and his lessee, there is no other defined internal circulation system within the Park boundaries. There is no public access permitted anywhere on-site with the exception of the produce stand that is located at the southeast boundary of the Park. Access to, and parking for, the produce stand is from Snell Avenue. The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) and Caltrain pro- vide transit service to the site. The VTA operates fixed route, commuter and paratransit bus service, and light rail transit (LRT) service in Santa Clara County. Three local and express bus routes operate along Snell Avenue on the eastern border of the Park, with the nearest bus stops to the Park located on Snell Avenue. The nearest LRT stations are the Ohlone/Chynoweth Sta- tion at Santa Teresa Boulevard approximately one mile southwest of the site, and the Blossom Hill Station at Blossom Hill Road approximately 500 feet southeast of the site on the Alum Rock-Santa Teresa line. The closest Cal- train Station to the site is the Blossom Hill Station on Monterey Road. 136 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 36 b. Opportunities Opportunities related to roads and access includes: Bicycle corridors, pedestrian trails, and service road connections may fa- cilitate walk-in access to the Park. An undercrossing beneath Highway 85 could provide walk-in access from Blossom Hill Road. The City’s future street widening along Branham Lane and Snell Avenue provides an opportunity to create attractive, comfortable pedes- trian/bicycle connections along the Park frontage that would provide adequate buffer for pedestrians and cyclists from traffic and establish ap- propriate visual character. The Blossom Hill VTA LRT station, located in the Highway 85 right-of- way that is southeast of the Park, provides convenient regional transit ac- cess to the Park. Bus routes on Snell Road (#122, 304, 305, and 66) provide local and re- gional bus service to the Park as well as linkages to LRT at the Blossom Hill LRT station. Existing bicycle lanes on Branham Lane, Snell Avenue and Blossom Hill Road provide the potential for non-motorized connections to bicycle trails within the Park. The wide (110 feet) public right-of-way for Chynoweth Avenue may pro- vide an opportunity to work with the City of San José on additional streetscape treatments as well as potential areas for on-street parking for the Park since the additional right-of-way would not be needed to ac- commodate typical traffic volumes for a through street.6 The City of San José’s future road widening projects for Branham Lane and Snell Avenue may provide an opportunity to improve the Park’s edge treatment. 6 The City of San Jose abandoned plans for developing Chynoweth Avenue as a public street through the Park. 137 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 37 c. Constraints Constraints related to roads and access includes: The existing and future speed and volume of traffic along Snell Avenue and Branham Lane would require the Park plan to consider appropriate site access from adjacent streets for non-public, user-related access (e.g. maintenance vehicles, tractors, etc.), as well as park visitors and residents; and provide for pedestrian safety of park visitors and residents using street intersections at Branham Lane and Snell Avenue. Although close by, the Blossom Hill LRT station still leaves visitors nearly a mile from the main visitor-serving core which includes the Park’s Visitor Center complex and the historic Life Estate Area property. Although bus stops are located adjacent to the Park, the absence of com- fortable and protected facilities does not encourage active transit use. The location, distribution, and design of the Park circulation system, parking and staging areas may have potential implications on factors such as visual character, neighborhood traffic, noise levels, etc. The Plan needs to consider the potentially large land area needed to ac- commodate special event parking as well as the more limited daily park- ing. It should also consider the character and use of special event areas during non-event periods. Alternative solutions for event parking may al- leviate the impacts of long-term parking facilities. The City of San José’s future road widening projects for Branham Lane and Snell Avenue may require the Park’s main vehicular entrance to be rebuilt. 7. Environmental Conditions Environmental conditions are an important consideration in the planning for any State or County park. Not only are the potential uses of parks influ- enced by existing conditions, but parks have the potential to improve envi- ronmental conditions within an area if properly developed. This section fo- 138 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 38 cuses on two key environmental conditions that influence the planning proc- ess for Martial Cottle Park: climate and air quality. a. Existing Conditions The climate and air quality experienced at Martial Cottle Park are described below based upon existing data. i. Climate The climate of the area is characterized as dry-summer subtropical (often re- ferred to as Mediterranean), with cool wet winters and relatively warmer dry summers. Northwesterly and northerly winds are most common in the vi- cinity of the Park, reflecting the orientation of the Bay and the San Francisco Peninsula. The site receives approximately 14-15 inches of rainfall per year. This type of climate supports a long growing season, but is subject to recur- ring and sometimes long lasting droughts. Global warming and climate change may have a profound effect on the re- gion’s climate. Federal, State and municipal governments, including the County of Santa Clara, are working to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emis- sions which are known to contribute to this phenomenon. However, it is anticipated that affect of climate change on the Bay Area will include rising sea levels and a warmer climate as well as unpredictable weather patterns and flooding. ii. Air Quality The City of San José and Martial Cottle Park are located in the San Francisco Bay Area, within the jurisdiction of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). San José has a relatively high atmospheric potential for air pollution compared to other parts of the San Francisco Bay Air Basin due to the combined effects of moderate ventilation, frequent inversions and ter- rain that restricts pollution dilution. Air quality conditions in the San Francisco Bay Area have improved significantly since the BAAQMD was created in 1955 and ozone levels have declined substantially as a result of ag- Surrounding mountain ranges are visible from the Park on clear days 139 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 39 gressive programs by the BAAQMD and other regional, State and federal agencies. However, the Bay Area still exceeds the State standard for concen- trations of ozone measured over one hour, also known as one-hour ozone. b. Opportunities Opportunities related to the site’s environmental conditions include: Climate and air quality in the Park are conducive to year-round outdoor recreation, interpretive program and agricultural activities. There is potential for Park landscaping to serve as carbon sinks to reduce ambient carbon dioxide levels, and for appropriate farming practices to minimize GHG emissions from the site. c. Constraints Constraints related to the Park’s environmental conditions include: Park programming will need to consider air quality when scheduling regular and special events, as well as park operations and maintenance. Agricultural programming will need to consider potential affects of global climate change on the region. C. Planning Influences The Park’s urban context and the Joint Powers and Operating Agreement between County Parks and California State Parks make it critical for park planning to consider regulations and policies at the federal, State, County and local level. The Park will comply with all State and County regulations, in- cluding those relating to habitat protection, water quality protection, geologic hazards, erosion prevention, protection of paleontological and cultural re- sources, agricultural land preservation, noise, health and safety, and agricul- tural practices. 140 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 40 Local, State, and federal regulations have been enacted to provide for the pro- tection and management of sensitive agricultural, biological and wetland re- sources. The section summarizes federal, State, California State Parks system- wide, County, City, and other regulatory planning influences that were con- sidered in developing the general plan and master plan guidelines. In addi- tion, this section identifies relevant documents that will guide the develop- ment of the Park. 1. Federal On the federal level, the USFWS is responsible for protection of terrestrial and freshwater organisms through implementation of the federal Endangered Species Act7 and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is responsible for protection of anadromous fish and marine wildlife, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) has primary responsibility for protecting wetlands under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. 2. State The California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) is responsible for ad- ministration of the California Endangered Species Act, and for protection of streams and water bodies through the Streambed Alteration Agreement proc- ess under Section 1600 of the California Fish and Game Code. Certification from the California Regional Water Quality Control Board is also required when a proposed activity may result in discharge into navigable waters, pur- suant to Section 401 of the Clean Water Act and EPA Section 404(b)(1) Guidelines. 7 The federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 declares that all federal departments and agencies shall utilize their authority to protect endangered and threatened plant and animal species. The California Endangered Species Act (CESA) of 1984 parallels the policies of the ESA and pertains to California species. 141 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 41 3. California State Parks System-wide Planning California State Parks has established rules and regulations for achieving its mission. The mission of California State Parks is: To provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of Califor- nia by helping to preserve the state's extraordinary biological diversity, pro- tecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportu- nities for high-quality outdoor recreation. California State Parks rules and regulations that apply to the management and operation of the Park are listed below. California Public Resources Code California Code of Regulations California State Park and Recreation Commission Statements of Policy Policies, Rules, Regulations, and Orders of California State Parks Department of Parks and Recreation Operations Manual (DOM) California State Parks System Plan California State Parks Mission Statement California State Parks Access to Parks Guidelines California Recreation and Trails Plan California State Parks Strategic Plan 4. County of Santa Clara This section describes specific County programs, policies, ordinances and documents that have influenced this General Plan/Master Plan (Plan). a. Santa Clara County General Plan The 1995-2010 Santa Clara County General Plan (1994) contains the goals, strategies, policies, and implementing actions that guide in the overall land use development of the County. The policies contained within the County’s General Plan are divided into countywide policies and policies that specifi- cally apply to urban unincorporated areas like the Park. The three primary strategies defined by the General Plan for the urban unincorporated areas are to: 1) promote eventual annexation, 2) ensure conformity of development 142 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 42 with cities’ general plans, and 3) provide services as efficiently and equitably as possible. In this way the County General Plan acknowledges that the im- plementation of the Plan policies also depends on the supportive actions of multiple agencies, in particular the 15 cities responsible for the development within the County’s urban areas. Many of the cities within the County, in- cluding the City of San José, have general plans that contain policies that are very similar to those in the County General Plan. Consequently, implemen- tation of City general plans will also contribute to implementation of the County’s General Plan. Policies from the Santa Clara County General Plan that are particularly pertinent to the Park are listed below. The public open space lands system should: a) preserve visually and envi- ronmentally significant open space resources; and b) provide for recrea- tion activities compatible with the enjoyment and preservation of each site’s natural resources, with trail linkages to adjacent and nearby regional park lands. (C-PR4) Opportunities for access to regional parks and public open space lands via public transit, hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails should be provided. Until public transit service is available, additional parking should be pro- vided where needed. (C-PR 7) Parks and recreation system planning, acquisition, development, and op- eration should be coordinated among cities, the County, State and federal governments, school districts and special districts, and should take advan- tage of opportunities for linkages between adjacent publicly owned parks and open space lands. (C-PR 14) The provision of public regional parks and recreational facilities of coun- tywide significance both in urban and rural areas shall be the responsibil- ity of county government. (C-PR 15) The provision of neighborhood, community, and citywide parks and rec- reational facilities should be the responsibility of the cities and other ap- propriate agencies. (C-PR 16) 143 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 43 Natural and heritage resources shall be protected and conserved for their ecological, functional, economic, aesthetic, and recreational values. Heri- tage resources shall be preserved to the maximum extent possible for their scientific, cultural, or place values, and they shall not be diminished due to inadequate safeguards. (C-RC1) The County shall provide leadership in efforts to protect or restore valu- able natural resources, such as wetlands, riparian areas, and woodlands, and others: a. for County-owned lands; and b. through multi- jurisdictional endeavors. (C-RC2) Multiple uses of lands intended for open space and conservation shall be encouraged so long as the uses are consistent with the objectives of re- source management, conservation, and preservation, particularly habitat areas. (C-RC3) b. Climate Change The County of Santa Clara signed the Bay Area Climate Change Compact in March 2009. The Compact addresses compact for green building, transporta- tion, renewable energy, energy efficiency, green jobs, water, climate adapta- tion plans, public information campaign, waste diversion and green municipal fleets. By signing the compact, the County of Santa Clara committed to col- laborating with regional partners to meeting goals outlined in the Plan. County policies that contribute to this effort include the green building ordi- nance, adopted in 2008. In addition, the County is in the process of preparing a Climate Action Plan (CAP). c. County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department The Mission of the County Parks is to “provide, protect, and preserve re- gional parklands for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of this and future generations.” The vision of the Strategic Plan for the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation System (2003) is for the Department to “create a growing and diverse system of regional parks, trails, and open spaces of coun- 144 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 44 tywide significance that connects people with the natural environment, offers visitor experiences that renew the human spirit, and balances recreation op- portunities with resource protection.” With this vision, County Parks strives to balance the growing need for outdoor recreation opportunities with man- agement and preservation of the County’s diverse resources. The Strategic Plan for the County Parks and Recreation System presents a road map to guide the acquisition, planning, development, programming, man- agement, and funding of regional parks and recreation in Santa Clara County. Specifically, the Strategic Plan identifies how regional parks and open spaces, the outdoor recreation opportunities these places provide, and their resources may be managed and enhanced to meet the needs of the growing population of Santa Clara County. The Strategic Plan identifies a number of regional recreational and open space needs and priorities in the County. Several of these identified needs and pri- orities may be met through the development of the Park, including: Expand the County Parks system to provide for the projected population growth. Provide for the basic, high-demand regional recreation preferences of County park users. Provide outdoor recreation opportunities for a range of group sizes, ages, abilities and cultures. Provide places for special events, including large multiple-use areas and accompanying parking and service access to accommodate festivals, out- door concerts, and very large group activities and facilities for regional competitions such as equestrian events, sport tournaments, dog trials. Provide places with a sense of remoteness. Provide outdoor recreation opportunities for people with their dogs. Provide for specific recreation opportunities. 145 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 45 Preserve natural resources and educate the public about park resources and park stewardship. Provide accessible regional recreation opportunities. Provide trail links to and between regional parks. d. County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department Natural Re- source Management Guidelines The Natural Resources Management Guidelines for the County Parks (2004) are intended to guide County Parks in the management of the rich diversity of vegetation, wildlife, and landforms within the County. The guidelines contain general policies to influence natural resource management strategy decisions pertaining to physical resources and processes, biological resources and processes, ecosystems, and park intrinsic values. The goal of a Natural Resource Management Program (NRMP), as recommended by the guidelines, is to guide staff actions to ensure that County Park activities have the least possible impact on park natural resources. An NRMP typically contains gen- eral management concepts, methods of evaluating impacts on natural re- sources within the park, a monitoring strategy, recommended potential stud- ies, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Ordinance. An NRMP addresses the specific actions that will be implemented to coordinate the management of natural resources with other uses in the park. e. County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department Policy and Pro- cedures Manual The Policy and Procedures Manual for the County Parks (1987-) contains various policies that address the management of County Parks facilities. Spe- cific policies guide County Parks staff on procedures such as implementing and administering commercial development on parklands (Procedure 504, October 6, 1987), fee collection and cash handling (Procedure 107, May 12, 2003), range management programs (Procedure 519, July 21, 1992), pest con- trol strategies (Procedure 618, March 13, 1992), recycling programs (Proce- dure 520, May 19, 1995), extended trail use hours (Under County Ordinance, Director’s authority, effective May 1, 2007) and dog access rules and restric- 146 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 46 tions (Procedure 397, April 2007) in County Parks. The County Parks’ Pol- icy and Procedures Manual will direct management practices and administra- tive procedures at the Park. f. County Ordinance NS-702.89 – Parks and Recreation County Ordinance NS-702.89 (August 2006) contains specific ordinances that pertain to management and use of County Parks. The Ordinance is divided into chapters with general information related to park custody and park hours, regulations for resource protection, general public conduct, public use areas, permits, and fees and charges. These specific ordinances will provide the framework for the day-to-day management of the Park. g. County Ordinance NS-517.70 – Integrated Pest Management and Pesti- cide Use County Ordinance NS-517.70 (May 2002) regulates the use of pesticides on County property. The intent of the ordinance is to “protect the health and safety of County employees and the general public, the environment, and water quality, as well as to provide sustainable solutions for pest control on County property.” The ordinance emphasizes the use of non-pesticide alter- natives where feasible. To enact this mission, the County established an Inte- grated Pest Management (IPM) program that relies on biological control, cul- tural practices, mechanical and physical tools, and chemicals to minimize pes- ticide usage. The IPM method uses the least hazardous pesticides available only as a last resort for controlling pests. Section B28-5 of the ordinance de- scribes the role of the County IPM Coordinator in maintaining the list of approved pesticides that may be used on County property and outlines spe- cific exemptions for use of products not on the approved list and emergency use of pesticides. The ordinance contains a list of pesticide restrictions and the posting and the record keeping and reporting procedures for pesticide use. h. County Ordinance NS-300.705 – Right-to-Farm County Ordinance NS-300-705 encourages agricultural operations in the county by supporting the “right-to-farm agricultural lands and permits opera- 147 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 47 tion of properly conducted agricultural operations within the County.” The ordinance requires that a real estate disclosure statement acknowledging the right to farm be signed by purchasers or lessee for land transfers in the county. The disclosure acknowledges potential inconveniences associated with nearby agricultural operations and states that these inconveniences are not considered to be a nuisance by the County if they are consistent with accepted standards and customs. A Grievance Committee was established by the County to help resolve disputes related to this ordinance. i. Williamson Act Program The California Land Conservation Act of 1965 – Government Code Section 51200 et. seq, commonly referred to as the Williamson Act, is a State land protection program that discourages the conversion of agricultural land to urban uses. Under this program, landowners voluntarily restrict uses of their land to agriculture and compatible uses and, in return, are assessed for prop- erty taxes based on agricultural use rather than potential market value. The County of Santa Clara has elected to participate in the Williamson Act program. The County’s Williamson Act Guidelines establish certain re- quirements for agricultural use of parcels depending on the size and land characteristics (prime versus non-prime lands) of the parcels. The guidelines also limit compatible uses and development such as barns and paved roads to no more than 10 percent (not to exceed 5 acres) of the parcel. According to State law, Williamson Act contracts can be terminated by filing a nonrenewal notice or applying for cancellation of the contract. Contracts are not termi- nated until nine years from the January 1 renewal date following the filing of the nonrenewal notice. The cancellation process requires the County Board of Supervisors to make certain findings and the payment of a cancellation fee equal to 12.5 percent of the property’s unrestricted value. The County and State-owned Park properties remain under Williamson Act contracts. However, the contracts covering the two County-owned parcels were non-renewed and will terminate in 2017 and 2019, and the contract for The Williamson Act discourages the con- version of agricultural land to urban uses 148 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 48 the State-owned parcel will terminate in 2018. The remaining fourth parcel of the Park which is still part of the Life Estate Area will remain under Wil- liamson Act until a future time when the County is able to initiate the con- tract nonrenewal. During the nonrenewal process, park uses and develop- ment will be limited by the County’s Williamson Act Contract Ordinance and Guidelines. Park phasing and development will comply with the County’s application of these guidelines. j. Santa Clara Valley Habitat Conservation Plan The Santa Clara Valley Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP) is currently under development. The pro- ject is intended to protect land that provides important habitat for endangered and threatened species, and is supported by numerous partners including the County of Santa Clara, the Santa Clara VTA, the SCVWD, the Cities of San José, Gilroy, and Morgan Hill, the California Department of Fish and Game, and the USFWS. The plan is expected to be complete in 2010. 5. Other Regional Agencies The following are governmental agencies and non-governmental organiza- tions that are actively involved in open space and agricultural land preserva- tion and/or agricultural education in Santa Clara County. a. Santa Clara County Open Space Authority Santa Clara County Open Space Authority (OSA) is an independent special district that includes almost all of Santa Clara County, including the City of San José, yet excluding the City of Gilroy. The OSA works to preserve the natural environment within the district by acquiring land and/or easements and through collaboration with other organizations and agencies. The OSA has provided funding towards the development of the master plan and Phase I priorities for the master plan implementation through its 20% Funding Pro- gram. 149 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 49 b. Santa Clara Valley Water District The SCVWD provides wholesale water, flood protection, and stewardship for natural hydrologic features and district-built reservoirs within Santa Clara County. SCVWD has two easements at the Park. c. Resource Conservation District Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs) educate private landowners and the public about resource conservation and help to coordinate conservation ef- forts at a county or regional scale. RCDs are established under a county’s Local Agency Formation Committee (LAFCO). Santa Clara County is within the Guadalupe-Coyote RCD. 6. Non-Governmental Organizations The following non-governmental organizations contribute in an advisory capacity to Park planning efforts. a. University of California Cooperative Extension The UCCE operates numerous agricultural education programs, including Master Gardener, 4H Youth Development, and Sustainable Agriculture and Research programs. b. Santa Clara County Farm Bureau The Santa Clara County Farm Bureau (Farm Bureau) is a non-profit organiza- tion dedicated to promoting and preserving farming and ranching in the Santa Clara Valley. The Farm Bureau has over 530 members who are active farm- ers and ranchers in the Santa Clara Valley, and runs numerous programs in- cluding political involvement, education, member development and the Agri- cultural Water Quality Program. Members of the Farm Bureau contributed to planning discussions for agricultural components of the Park. 7. City of San José’s Plans, Policies, and Ordinances This section describes City of San José’s plans, policies, and ordinances that influence the development of the Park. Although California Government Code Sections 53090 and 53091 state that State and county agencies and their 150 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 50 properties are not required to comply with local agency policies, consistency with local agency policies is desirable. a. 2020 General Plan The City of San José 2020 General Plan, adopted in 1994 and last amended in 2007, is the comprehensive long-term plan that contains an integrated state- ment of the City’s official land use policy. The General Plan defines the goals and policies that guide the long-term land use development and management of City services. The City is coordinating the Envision San José 2040 General Plan Update. The City of San José 2020 General Plan recognizes the Park as Public Park and Open Space and does not attribute a zoning designation to the property because it is an unincorporated County area. However, because of the Park’s location surrounded by areas subject to City jurisdiction, it is conceivable that the development of an urban agricultural park will have ef- fects upon the surrounding areas and City policies will have to be considered during the Park planning process. b. City of San José’s Land Use/Transportation Diagram The City of San José designates the Park as Public Park and Open Space. The planned land uses for all property within the City of San José Sphere of Influ- ence are depicted on the Land Use/Transportation Diagram contained within the City’s 2020 General Plan (2007). The land use designations reflect the goals and policies of the General Plan. According to the General Plan, the Public Park and Open Space designation applies to lands that are “publicly owned, though in some instances public access may be restricted.” These lands are “devoted to open space use for the most part, although some devel- opment, such as restrooms, playgrounds, educational/visitor’s centers, and parking areas, is an inherent part of many of the properties so designated.” Because the Park is the jurisdiction of the County and the State, the City has not attributed a zoning designation to the site. City-designated land uses in the vicinity of the Park include a mix of single-family and multiple-family residential housing and commercial land uses. 151 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 51 c. City of San José’s Greenprint Strategic Plan The Greenprint Strategic Plan (Greenprint) (2000) is the City’s 20-Year Stra- tegic Plan for parks, recreational facilities and programs. The Greenprint is intended to provide a specific, community-supported action plan for the fu- ture of parks, community facilities, and programs in the City. An Update of the Greenprint is underway in 2009 and will provide the basis for the recrea- tional input into the City of San Jose’s General Plan Update. The Updated Greenprint identifies a future feasibility study to be undertaken to evaluate future trail connections between Martial Cottle Park and the neighborhood and ultimately to the Guadalupe River Parkway. The current Greenprint describes each of the ten City Council districts and their future needs for neighborhood/community-serving parkland and community centers. The Park is located within Council District 10 and the Greenprint identifies a cur- rent need of at least 300 acres for community-serving parkland in this district. By the year 2020, District 10 is estimated to need an additional 138 acres in order to meet the City goal of 3.5 acres of parkland/1000 population. Al- though it was not mentioned as such in the Greenprint, the proposed Park presents a means of supplementing the District 10, District 2 and City-wide park services as it will allow for community access to a new County and State agricultural park. The Park is located within Council District 10 and imme- diately to the west of Council District 2. d. City of San Jose’s Green Vision The City of San Jose’s Green Vision was adopted by the City Council on October 30, 2007. The Green Vision identifies goals and strategies that con- nect environmental sustainability with economic growth and quality of life. Implementation of these goals and strategies is expected to result in a 50 percent or greater reduction in the City’s carbon footprint. The strategies identified in the document, including those that address energy efficiency, waste reduction, and green building, will inform the design and operations of the Park. 152 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 52 Goal #5 of the Green Vision is to “divert 100 percent of the waste from our landfill and convert waste to energy.” The City of San Jose’s Zero Waste Strategic Plan outlines strategies for meeting this goal, including programs for parks and for special events that encourage recycling and composting as ways to divert waste from landfills. 8. Other Relevant Documents and Policies This section describes specific actions and policies at the local, regional, and State level that led to the establishment of the Park, and will continue to in- fluence park planning and development. a. Donor’s Vision The vision for the Park is that it be jointly developed, operated, and main- tained as a County/State park in a manner that will show and display the agricultural heritage of Santa Clara County in the early 1900s. Consistent with the Donor’s vision, the land is to be utilized as an educational facility and working farm that promotes and sustains farming traditions. The Do- nor’s vision is provided in Appendix C. b. Deed Stipulations California State Parks and County Parks are to jointly develop and operate both respective properties as a public historic agricultural park in accordance with deed stipulations that were established to ensure that the lands will re- main in agriculture in perpetuity and offer agricultural education for the pub- lic use and benefit. Additional allowable uses include agricultural leases, farmers’ markets, produce stands, community gardens, educational programs related to agriculture, and passive recreational uses such as picnic facilities and trails. These stipulations for the Park are described in more detail below. i. State of California’s Property Transfer Agreement/Grant Deed The State of California’s Property Transfer Agreement/Grant Deed is dated September 10, 2003, and contains the following general use restriction: 153 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 53 “No part of the property shall be used for high intensity, organized rec- reational uses such as athletic fields, playgrounds, tot lots, swimming pools (other than private residential pools), play courts, amusement rides or similar uses, nor as a repository for historic structures that are relo- cated from other sites.” According to the deed, the following restrictions on the State’s portion of the Park are only applicable if the property is to be used as a public park: “If the property is to be used as a public park, it shall be used exclusively as a public historical park that informs and educates the public about the agricultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley, as exemplified by the Mar- tial Cottle family, dating from the 1850s to the 20th century.” “No part of the property shall be used for a swimming pool or any other of the prohibited uses” described above. “Property may be used for passive recreational activities such as picnic fa- cilities, trails and other low intensity uses that may be incidental to the primary historical and educational purposes of the park, and for interpre- tive, passive recreational, agricultural education and research and com- mercial uses that are reasonably related to the history of farming in the Santa Clara Valley.” “Commercial uses such as agricultural leases, produce stands, community gardens, farmer’s markets, interpretive programs or similar uses may be allowed if reasonably related to the primary historical purpose of the park.” ii. County of Santa Clara’s Property Transfer Agreement/Grant Deed The County of Santa Clara’s Property Transfer Agreement/Grant Deed is dated October 17, 2003, and contains the following general use restrictions: “No part of the property shall be used for high intensity, organized rec- reational uses such as athletic fields, playgrounds, tot lots, swimming 154 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 54 pools, play courts, amusement rides or similar uses, nor as a repository for historic structures that are relocated from other sites.” “Property shall be used exclusively as a public historical park that informs and educates the public about agricultural heritage of Santa Clara Valley, as exemplified by the Martial Cottle family, dating from the 1850s to the 20th century.” “Property may be used for passive recreational activities such as picnic fa- cilities, trails and other low intensity uses that may be incidental to the primary historical and educational purposes of the park, and for interpre- tive, passive recreational, agricultural education and research and com- mercial uses that are reasonably related to the history of farming in the Santa Clara Valley. “Commercial uses such as agricultural leases, produce stands, community gardens, farmer’s markets, interpretive programs or similar uses may be allowed if reasonably related to the primary historical purpose of the park.” iii. County of Santa Clara-State of California Partnership The Joint Powers and Operating Agreement (October 28, 2003) between California State Parks and County Parks defines the operation and manage- ment of Martial Cottle Park as a combined State and County public historic agricultural park. According to the Operating Agreement, the County has exclusive possession, operation and control of the State’s acquisition together with the County’s donation under the terms outlined in the agreement. The County is responsible for the Plan process, development, management, opera- tion and maintenance of the Park. County Parks will also take all actions necessary to ensure the Donor’s quiet use and enjoyment of the Life Estate Area and allow the Donor or his designee(s) to farm crops until the Life Es- tate Area is terminated (upon the Donor’s passing) and park development begins. County Parks will ensure that no competing produce stands are per- mitted. California State Parks will provide staff and other assistance as re- quired to advise and assist County Parks in the preparation of the master plan 155 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 55 for development and operation of the Park. At its discretion and subject to availability of funding, California State Parks will assist County Parks with grant applications and in developing, implementing, and administering the agricultural interpretive program and facilities. D. Demographics, Trends, and Projections 1. Population Increase and Park Visitation The Bay Area continues to attract new residents to its recreational activities, cultural and educational resources, and career opportunities. In the period between 2000 and 2005, the Bay Area added 312,738 new residents for a total population of 7.1 million. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) projects that growth in the region will continue, adding another 2 million residents (28 percent) and 1.66 million jobs (48 percent) by 2035.8 Consistent with growth trends across the Bay Area, Santa Clara County’s population increased by 164,172 between 1999 and 2008, reaching 1,846,757.9 ABAG projects the County’s population will reach 2,431,400 by 2035. At the local level, the County and the City of San José, within which the Park is located, will also see significant population growth by 2025. The population of the County is projected to increase by approximately 23 per- cent or about 380,000 people by the year 2025, with long-term population growth anticipated to be much higher in the cities than in the unincorporated areas. The City of San José, California’s third largest city, and the largest in the Bay Area, is projected to see a population increase of 22 percent, bringing the total population to 1.1 million by 2025. 8 The Bay Area Region includes Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma Counties. 9 California Department of Finance, http://www.dof.ca.gov/research/ demographic/reports/estimates/e-6/2000-08/, accessed September 28, 2009. 156 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 56 Martial Cottle Park is located in a growing and increasingly diverse metro- politan region. The County is located at the southern end of the San Fran- cisco Bay and encompasses 1,312 square miles. There are 15 cities located within the County, with the City of San José serving as the county seat and location of the County government. A significant portion of the County’s land area is unincorporated ranch and farmland, yet nearly 92 percent of the population lives in cities. 2. Population Diversity The County’s population is not only increasing in size, it is growing more diverse in many respects. With respect to race and ethnicity, 53 percent are White, 31 percent are Asian, 26 percent are Hispanic, and 3 percent are Black or African-American. The remaining 13 percent are comprised of other races or a combination of races. In 2040, approximately 43 percent of the popula- tion in the County is projected to be Asian and Pacific Islanders and ap- proximately 38 percent of the population is projected to be Hispanic. This demographic shift will lead to a growth in emerging cultural/ethnic uses of parks and result in greater demand for small and large group facilities accom- modating such uses as picnics, cultural events, and festivals. Like the nation at large, the percentage of adults over 65 is expected to rise. The median age in the Bay Area will increase from 36.5 years in 2005 to 42.5 years by the end of the year 2035. This reflects a significant increase in the senior population, with the 60- to 70-year-old, 70- to 80-year-old, and the over 80-year-old age groups increasing dramatically. According to ABAG, the older population of 2035 will be different than the older population of today. In 2035, more seniors will be active in the workforce and will be living in urban areas in order to have access to services and public transportation. According to the Santa Clara County General Plan (1995-2010), the economy of Santa Clara County remains the strongest economy in the Bay Area, with high technology industries driving most of the County’s employment growth. Growing specialization in the areas of research, development and 157 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 57 automated production will increase demand for highly educated and skilled professional workers. In the City of San José, 83 percent of people over 25 years old had at least graduated from high school and 36 percent had a bache- lor’s degree or higher. These percentages were slightly higher in the County, with 86 percent having graduated from high school and 44 percent having attained a bachelor’s degree or higher. With respect to income, the mean annual household income in the Bay Area in 2005 was $97,300 in 2005. At the County level, the median income of households was $97,900, with marked disparities between cities for average income, from a low of $72,000 to a high of $214,000. The median income of households in the City of San José was $85,400. Nationwide, an emerging public health issue among youth is childhood obe- sity. Many parks and recreation providers are discussing ways of connecting youth to their natural environment. California State Parks initiated the Children in Nature Campaign to address these growing concerns regarding childrens’ physical and mental well-being. The mission of the campaign is to “energize, educate and engage public, private and nonprofit entities to in- crease the number and variety of opportunities for California children to ex- perience and benefit from interacting with the natural world.”10 This cam- paign is supported California State Parks’ 2005 report, The Health and Social Benefits of Recreation. This report documents the benefits of recreation and parks to physical, mental and social health. The County Parks Department is prioritizing “connecting youth to the environment” as a theme for future recreational and interpretive programming and budgeting discussions. 3. Park and Recreation Needs As a result of the trends described above, existing parks will face increasing pressures unless new parks are created close to major population growth areas or existing parks are expanded. In addition, parks will need to accommodate 10 California State Parks, http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=24914, ac- cessed November 17, 2009. Parks and recreation are essential to the lives of Californians 158 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 58 changes in cultural preferences of a population that is growing more diverse and older each year. a. Statewide Park and Recreation Needs In March 2009, California Parks and Recreation Society (CPRS) published a study that focused on uncovering the values individuals held about parks and programs and identifying priorities for future parks and programs.11 The study revealed that parks and recreation are essential to lives of Californians, with 98 percent of respondents reporting having visited a park during the last years and 68 percent reporting at least monthly visits. Facilities and uses pro- vided by parks that are most valued include “access to the serenity and awe of nature,” outdoor spaces for play and exercise, group sports facilities, and al- ternatives for juveniles. According to the study, the preservation of and ac- cess to outdoor space and non-structured uses of facilities were the public’s highest priorities. California State Parks has published several studies with similar findings to the CPRS study, including the Survey on Public Opinions and Attitudes on Outdoor Recreation (2009) and Park and Recreation Trends in California (2005). The 2005 report confirms that outdoor recreation is an important part of life for Californians and that many of the favored activities are un- structured, such as walking, beach play, or wildlife watching. b. Countywide/Regional Park and Recreation Needs County parks are generally considered regional recreational resources and tend to be used for passive recreation, trails-based recreation, and picnicking, as identified in the 2007 Santa Clara Parks and Recreation public opinion sur- vey. Thirty-three percent of respondents rated hiking and walking as their most likely activity in County parks, 24 percent rated picnicking and barbe- quing as their most likely activity. All other categories, including sports, “bring kids to play” and biking, were reported by 7.6 percent or fewer of re- 11 California Parks and Recreation Society, 2009, Report on Results of Market Research to Support CPRS Building the Brand Initiative. 159 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 59 spondents. Similarly, in 1999-2001, the most popular activities in County parks were walking/running, with 43 percent and 51 percent of survey re- spondents participating in that activity in 1999 and 2001 respectively; picnics, at 36 percent and 32 percent; hiking at 20 percent and 24 percent; and biking, at 14 percent and 15 percent. All other activities fell in the 1 to 10 percent range, including sports activities, camping and horseback riding. The 2007 needs assessment indicated that park users have a high level of satisfaction with County parks. c. Citywide Park and Recreation Needs The City of San José’s Greenprint (2000) and Draft Greenprint 2009 Update indicated the following projected need for additional parkland by 2020 for the Council Districts in the vicinity of Martial Cottle Park: District 2: 36.17 acres District 7: 179.3 acres District 9: 88.58 acres District 10: 137.76 acres (Martial Cottle Park’s home district) 4. Farming Trends Throughout California agricultural land is being lost to urban development at alarming rates. Likewise, those who own and operate farms are rapidly de- clining in numbers. Recent statistics indicate that California farmers age 65 and over outnumber farmers under the age of 25 by approximately 60 to 1.12 The 2002 Census of Agriculture – Preliminary Data Report shows a decline in total number of farms, the total acreage in farm production, and the num- ber of small farms throughout the U.S., with even more significant decreases in California in particular. California’s rapid urbanization has meant that agriculture has been forced to compete for land with urban developers who can typically afford to pay a higher price for land. The dilemma can be summed up in the following quotation from the Agricultural Land Conserva- 12 United States Department of Agriculture, 1999. 1997 Census of Agricul- ture. 160 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS 60 tion, Great Valley Center, October 1988, Modesto Bee, “If your farming re- turn is $2,000 to $3,000 per acre, and a developer offers you $40,000 an acre, what are you going to do?”13 Meanwhile, both at the national level and in California, the number of Span- ish-speaking, Hispanic, or Latino farm operators has significantly increased. Those farmer demographic groups that are most likely to operate small farms and have historically had the most difficulty in accessing land and obtaining long-term tenure are also those groups with growing populations. This sug- gests that there will be a demand among small, limited resource, socially dis- advantaged and beginning farmers for land, and that there is a clear need for greater outreach and technical assistance to this audience. Both aspiring and established farmers face numerous obstacles to achieving their goals. These include a lack of information about financing options and other resources crucial to their success. Retiring farmers lack information about proven, innovative ways to keep land in agricultural production while simultaneously meeting financial goals related to retirement and estate plan- ning. The low wages of farm employees in relation to the high costs of agri- cultural capital make starting new farms difficult. Many aspiring farmers may find it very difficult to know where the viable opportunities are for entering into a new farming operation. 13 Stated by Stockton horse breeder and developer Fritz Grupe. 161 61 3 KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS We learn from our gardens to deal with the most urgent question of the time: How much is enough? – Wendell Berry During the planning process for Martial Cottle Park (the Park), several issues surfaced as critical to the Park’s success. Addressing these key issues was nec- essary in order to balance the Park’s resources with the needs and interests of the general public. This section highlights issues that are addressed by the General Plan/Master Plan (Plan) goals and guidelines identified in Chapter 4. A. Parkwide Considerations This section describes overarching planning considerations that were ad- dressed during the planning process. 1. Combining a County Park and State Park into a Single Park Unit The Park is a joint venture that combines a County park and a California State park into one park unit. The planning process for the Park was crafted to ensure consistency with both California State Parks and the County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department (County Parks) policies and guidelines, to minimize any redundant efforts, and to clearly define short- and long-term roles for both agencies. According to the deed stipulations, neither the State-owned or County-owned properties may be used for high intensity, organized recreation nor as a re- pository for historic structures that are relocated from other sites. Further- more, both the State-owned and County-owned properties are to be used as a public historical park with educational and passive recreational activities. However, there are several desired uses identified during the planning process that are allowed on County parks but not on State parks, such as community gardens. This Plan addresses this by siting these uses on the County-owned portion of the Park. View of surrounding neighborhood from Park 162 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 62 2. Local, Regional, and Statewide Needs The Park was transferred to the County and the State due to its unique re- sources that were deemed to have regional and statewide significance. As a County park and a State park, the Park must be improved to meet the needs of the regional and statewide population while be considerate of local needs and protect the Park’s resources. The Park has provided scenic vistas and a historical, agricultural icon for the surrounding neighborhood since the residences and commercial centers were first built. The transfer of the property to the County and the State for pres- ervation into perpetuity was, not surprisingly, met by a high level of enthusi- asm and support on the part of the local community. Local residents have long enjoyed the presence of the agricultural land and agricultural activities, and many were eager to be able to access the site. There was substantial local support for trails that would provide this access, as well as other community- serving uses such as an off-leash dog park, and substantial concern regarding local traffic, parking, security and privacy for surrounding residents. These specific issues are discussed below. Community workshops and Task Force Committee meetings were well at- tended by local community members, neighbors and their representatives. Many adjacent neighbors view the Park as an extension of their private prop- erty, and identify the Park as a contributing factor to their decision to pur- chase their property. Proposals that would alter the views from neighboring residences, bring visitors within proximity of existing residences, or poten- tially increase local traffic were met with resistance from the local commu- nity. 3. Consistency with the Donor’s Vision The Donor’s vision provided the planning framework for the Park and guided decisions throughout the planning process. However, public input and analysis conducted during the planning process revealed that not all of the components included in the Donor’s vision were appropriate and/or fea- sible given the Park’s existing resources and/or desired by the general public. 163 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 63 Additionally, park features were identified that were consistent with the grant deed restrictions and appropriate for the Park’s resources and future users, yet had not been identified by the Donor’s vision. In response to public input and additional analysis, the Plan was modified from the Donor’s vision. While the Plan still meets the intent of this vision, it does not include the lake, equestrian center and community center, and includes additional fea- tures such as community gardens, multi-use outdoor pavilion, native plant nursery, and seasonal wetlands. The other key deviation between the Donor’s vision and the Plan is related to the main Park entrance location and vehicular circulation. The Donor’s Vi- sion identified the Park entrance on Chynoweth Avenue. Upon considera- tion of local residents’ concerns and the Donor’s support of an alternative entrance, the Plan deviated from the Vision and identified a different location for the main entrance. In addition, the Donor’s vision connected the east and west segments of Chynoweth Avenue and extended Vistapark Drive to Chynoweth Avenue. These road extensions were originally envisioned by the City of San Jose, yet the City no longer intends to implement this vision. Therefore, public roadway connections were not identified in the Plan. 4. Balancing Agriculture, Recreation, and Resource Enhancement Establishing an appropriate balance between agricultural land, parkland, and habitat enhancement for the Park was a key objective of the planning process. The ability of the Park to serve both as a functioning farm and an educational facility is hinged upon providing the appropriate amount of land for each of these uses. Concerns were expressed throughout the planning process regard- ing this balance, with some people commenting that the amount of agricul- tural land would be too little or too great for successful operations, and others concerned that the amount of parkland would not be able to accommodate visitor needs. While it was understood that the Park must provide adequate agricultural land to attract farmers and to allow for economically feasible operations, de- 164 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 64 termining the amount of land that would be adequate posed a challenge. There are numerous variables, including type of crop, that contribute to the success of farming efforts. Input from agricultural experts suggested a wide range of possible land needs, yet there was general agreement that more agri- cultural land would be beneficial to the overall success of the agricultural pro- gram. In other words, there was no maximum threshold identified for this use. In order to serve the local and regional population, enough parkland would also need to be included in the Park to accommodate high-use days and large events. Although other regional parks operated by the County provided a general idea of how much parkland would be needed, the agricultural setting and activities envisioned for the Park are inherently different than other County-operated parks. Furthermore, whereas each additional acre of agri- culture planned for the Park has the potential to generate additional revenue, additional parkland acreage would increase the County’s operating costs. Habitat enhancement posed less of a planning challenge, as this use was not the primary focus of the Park and could easily be accommodated along exist- ing features such as Canoas Creek and within necessary buffer areas. The Plan establishes a land use pattern and management zones that address the balance between recreation, agriculture and habitat enhancement. It is essential that each park use have adequate land for successful activities, and that the relationship of these land uses be such that the uses compliment, rather than compete, with each other. 5. Williamson Act Contracts and Program As described in Chapter 1, the Williamson Act is a State agricultural land pro- tection program that discourages the conversion of agricultural land to urban uses. Each of the four parcels that comprise Martial Cottle Park has been protected from development under the Williamson Act. The contracts cover- ing County-owned parcels were nonrenewed and will terminate in 2017 and 2019, and the State-owned parcel was nonrenewed and will terminate in 2018. 165 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 65 The remaining parcel within the Life Estate Area remains under the William- son Act where a nonrenewal has not been initiated, due to the Donor’s wishes. During the nonrenewal process, park uses and development will be limited by the County’s Williamson Act Guidelines. The Park presented a unique challenge for contract implementation, both because the Park itself would protect agricultural land into perpetuity and because many of the uses envisioned for the Park had not been previously defined by the Williamson Act as either compatible or incidental uses. In order to ensure compliance with the County’s Williamson Act guidelines during the nonrenewal periods, the planning team met with the County Planning Office, County Division of Agriculture, and County Counsel throughout the process to interpret the guidelines and assess park develop- ment options. An additional challenge posed by the Williamson Act contracts is that the individual parcel contracts will expire over the course of three or more years. In order to ensure that park phasing and development comply with all non- renewal periods, the Plan identifies a first phase of development that is com- pliant with County guidelines for all parcels and extends until all of the con- tracts have expired. Ultimately the County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors will consider compatibility findings for the Plan’s compliance with the Williamson Act guidelines prior to certification of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and project approval. B. Specific Issues This section describes issues specific to a geographic area, park component, or topic. The issues discussed in this section generally have direct implications on the design and implementation of the Plan. 166 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 66 1. Agricultural Viability Successful production agriculture at the Park is critical to the overall success of the Park. Ensuring that park programming supports this use was a prior- ity in the planning process. For planning purposes, the success of the Park’s agriculture programs was determined by probable ease of management opera- tions for the County, viability of agricultural efforts, and the establishment of a strong connection between agricultural, public education and recreation activities. Representatives of the planning team solicited input from numer- ous agricultural experts, including farmers, farm advisors, non-profit organi- zations that coordinate farming activities, and governmental entities that oversee farming operations, on key considerations for the establishment of a successful program.1 The key considerations related to the establishment and operations of a viable agricultural program are described below. Water Supply. Where the existing and potential future wells and main water lines would be located affects the survival of crops and success of the farming operations. Physical Area Constraints. Agricultural experts suggested that the viable size of farm plots was anywhere from half-acre to 150 acres. However, it was generally agreed that maximizing flexibility for farmers would be necessary for the Park’s long-term success. Large, rectangular agricultural plots that could be easily divided into subplots, while retaining access to 1 Advisors included: Brett Melone, Executive Director of ALBA; Steve Schwartz, Executive Director of California FarmLink; Reggie Knox, California FarmLink; Dale Coke, Coke Farm; Paul Muller, Full Belly Farm; Michael O’Gorman, farmer and Executive Director, Farmer-Veteran Coalition; Peter Rudnick, founding farmer, Green Gulch Farm. Advisors provided e-mail, the telephone and in meetings including a discussion at the Ecological Farming Conference in January 2009. In addi- tion, input was provided by Santa Clara County UCCE staff at a meeting on January 13, 2009, and by the Santa Clara County Farm Bureau at a meeting with the Santa Clara County Parks Department on December 15, 2008. 167 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 67 service roads, were generally understood to provide the most flexibility for future agricultural uses. Management and Marketing. Management of agricultural operations has not been previously undertaken by County Parks or California State Parks.2 Ensuring a management structure that would not strain the County’s resources was a key concern during the planning process. The ease of management for the County will be directly related to the ability of farmer(s) to operate a sustainable program at the Park. Components of a self-sustaining agricultural program for the Park include a separate entity to oversee operations, and flexible lease terms that allow farmers to adapt as environmental and market conditions change. Although mar- keting is generally the task of the individual farmer, it is understood that all marketing for the Park would benefit farmers and that on-site market- ing activities have the potential to increase agricultural profitability and viability. In order to promote this type of marketing without impacting the County’s resources or conflicting with California State Parks’ brand- ing guidelines, marketing opportunities and responsibilities should be discussed during discussions regarding the lease of agricultural land. Infrastructure. Irrigation infrastructure is necessary prior to the initia- tion of farming activities at the Park, yet it is important that the infra- structure be installed to maximize long-term flexibility for farmers. The system must allow for adequate circulation as well as the potential for plots to be subdivided or joined. In particular, irrigation infrastructure should be developed flexibly so that individual farmers have control over irrigation for their plots of land and the size and configuration of plots can be adjusted to meet changing needs. Adjacent properties. Conflicts between farms and adjacent properties can be detrimental to farming operations. While farmer are concerned 2 Wilder Ranch State Park includes actively farmed land. However, land is leased by farmers and California State Parks does not directly manage or operate farm- ing activities. Sign advertising existing produce stand 168 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 68 about impacts to their crops caused by vandalism and trespassing, food safety, legal liability, and pests from adjacent uses, residential neighbors are concerned with noise, dust, odors, lights, and pests from farms. The County’s Right-to-Farm Ordinance reduces the potential for conflicts to arise. Buffers between uses and regulations that consider concerns of both farmers and suburban neighbors are also important strategies for mini- mizing the potential for conflict. 2. Organization and Concentration of Park Uses Throughout the planning process, there was general excitement for highlight- ing the Park’s agricultural heritage through the organization of the Park uses. The physical relationship between park uses and the circulation system were the primary opportunities for realizing this vision. The alternatives developed during the planning process identified two ap- proaches for organizing the Park. The first approach was to consolidate pub- lic uses and the other was to distribute public uses throughout the Park. While the first option would create a walkable, vibrant park complex and reduce driving on-site, the second option would provide destinations throughout the Park and foster a rural atmosphere within the Park. Com- munity members and the planning team recognized the merits of each alter- native. The Plan will resolve this issue by establishing a layout for the Park that meets the aesthetic and functional needs and interests embodied in the various proposals. There was substantial support for a meandering road through the Park, which many participants in the planning process felt would invoke a rural agricul- tural setting. Other participants, however, argued that a gridded circulation system is more consistent with the agricultural setting and would be more efficient for agricultural activities on the site. This resulted in the Plan includ- ing a circulation system that meets the desire for a rural meandering road as well as the need for efficient use of land. 169 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 69 3. Domestic Animals in the Park Domesticated animals contribute to both agricultural and recreational activi- ties, and therefore determining the future role of animals in the Park inter- ested many of the participants in the planning process. The conversation addressed three categories of domestic animals, including riding horses, dogs, and farm animals. Issues related to each of these categories are described be- low. a. Equestrian Uses The original Donor’s vision identified equestrian uses as a significant part of the Park. Components of this vision included an equestrian center, a large arena, and multi-use trails with equestrian access. Although this vision served as a guide for park planning in initial programming, these uses raised several questions during development of the Plan. These included: compatibility with the Donor’s deed restrictions on overnight stabling, neighbor concerns regarding potential odor and noise, and the planning team’s questions regard- ing intended scale of an equestrian facility, impact upon other equestrian fa- cilities in the County; and the lack of equestrian trail connections from the Park to the regional trail network. Community concerns regarding potential noise and odor and the grant deed restrictions proved to be the primary con- straints to further planning of an equestrian center for the Park. Given these constraints, the Plan will not include an equestrian center. While an equestrian center and stables were determined to be incompatible with the deed restrictions, it does not restrict the inclusion of horses from the Park entirely. Allowing horses on trails was favored by some community members and deemed to be compatible with the grant deed stipulations. However, as the Park has limited potential for equestrian trails for individual riders, it is proposed that equestrian use enhance the historical agricultural and interpretive experience of the Park. This concept has been successful at other Parks, such as East Bay Regional Park District’s Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont, and can be carried out using traditional circulation systems and internal roads. For instance, horse-drawn wagons, or carts could move 170 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 70 visitors through the Park. The use of horses, horse-drawn wagons, or carts to assist in agricultural operations or as part of agricultural education programs is also consistent with the vision for the Park. As the Park has limited potential for dedicated equestrian trails onsite and lacks connection with other public open space and trails, visitors who are interested in trail riding will be directed to a number of County parks located within 5 miles from the Park, such as Santa Teresa County Park, Almaden- Quicksilver County Park, and Calero County Park, that offer extensive trails and connect with the regional trail system. These parks have well established equestrian uses and offer a variety of equestrian experiences. b. Dogs Whether or not dogs would be allowed at the Park was a topic that generated significant discussion. An off-leash dog park was not included as part of the Donor’s original vision, but was a feature requested by many community members early in the planning process and was generally supported by the Donor. Although dog park facilities are typically provided by local jurisdic- tions rather than included as part of County or California State Parks, the high level of interest in this use prompted the assessment of the potential for such a use at the Park. Primary constraints for including an off-leash dog park are that dogs off-leash are not allowed by the California State Parks System Rules and Regulations3 and that these types of facilities meet the classification of “active outdoor rec- reation” under the County Parks Strategic Plan, and therefore are not consid- ered an allowable use by the grant deed. The grant deed stipulates that “high intensity, organized recreational uses” are not allowed, but that passive uses be incidental to the Park’s historical use. In addition, although neighboring 3 California Code of Regulations: Title 14. Natural Resources Division 3. Department of Parks and Recreation, Chapter 1, General Section 4312, Control of Animals. 171 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 71 residents expressed a need for a dog park, it was determined that existing and planned dog parks within vicinity of the Park were adequate to meet local need and that regional needs for dog park facilities were also being met. The City of San Jose’s Greenprint Update includes guidelines that there should be at least one dog park facility within a 3-mile radius of all residential neighbor- hoods. There are two existing dog parks within 4 miles of the Park, and two dog parks planned for less than 3 miles from the Park. Allowing leashed dogs on park trails does not conflict with the grant deed nor California State Parks policy. While allowing on-leash dogs was not favored by all community members, there was general support for this approach. However, concerns were raised about food safety related to potential con- tamination from animal waste from dogs on-leash using trails adjacent to the Park’s agricultural uses. The Plan includes guidelines for allowable dog uses that are consistent with the Park vision, State, and County policies and for buffers to minimize potential contamination by runoff from animal waste. c. Farm Animals Farm animals, including work horses, are a part of agricultural history and a common component of agricultural education programs. Allowing for farm animals to be used on-site by farmers or for agricultural education was there- fore understood to be consistent with the grant deed and Park vision. How- ever, concerns were expressed about food safety related to farm animals, as well as potential noise, dust and odor impacts to residential neighbors. The Plan provides guidelines for locating farm animals to minimize conflicts with Park neighbors, to ensure that food crops are not contaminated by farm animal wastes, and to ensure that runoff from such areas is properly treated. 4. Perimeter Trail and Buffer Providing public access to the Park site identified as a key project objective in the early stages of planning for the Park. A perimeter trail that would pro- vide the opportunity for a long-distance circuit for walkers and joggers, con- Residential backyards abut the Park’s western boundary 172 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 72 nect to internal trails, and provide cross-park connections received substantial support from project partners and community members. In addition to pro- viding a recreational amenity, the perimeter trail could serve as part of a buffer between the Park’s agricultural uses and surrounding residential uses and major roads. Since the Park has not historically been open to the public, the establishment of the Park and the perimeter trail would by nature in- crease the amount of pedestrian and off-road bicycle traffic in the Park. Neighbors of the Park, especially those who live immediately adjacent to the Park, had several concerns with the perimeter trail concept. Security, noise, privacy, and potential impacts to agricultural and mountain views were the primary concerns identified by Park neighbors. Numerous solutions for the perimeter trail and buffer were proposed by community members, including proposals to eliminate the perimeter trail along the western edge of the property where residences abut the Park, pro- posals for agricultural uses to serve as a buffer between residential uses and the perimeter trail, and proposals for buffers that would be significantly wider than the County’s adopted guidelines of 25 feet or more for a combined buffer and trail.4 Given the importance of the perimeter trail and the incom- patibility of agricultural and residential uses, several of the proposed solutions were not feasible. The width and character of the buffer were identified as key issues that would affect the future success of the buffer, as discussed below. Buffer Width. The acreage required to establish buffers at various widths was a significant planning consideration, since for every additional acre occupied by the buffer, the maintenance costs to the County increase and the availability of land for agriculture decreases. The acreage required to establish buffers (including trails) along the westside of the property alone was estimated at 1.86 acres for the County Guideline, 5.6 acres for a 4 Santa Clara County Parks & Recreation Department, 1995, Santa Clara County Trails Master Plan Update. 173 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 73 75-foot buffer as proposed by the planning team and 12.4 acres for a 167- foot buffer proposed by the VEP Community Association.5 Landscape Character. The planning team conducted a site visit with Task Force members on January 17, 2009, primarily to discuss the impli- cations of buffer width and buffer character. Analysis by the planning team and input from the public revealed that a larger buffer than required County guidelines would be necessary to address neighbor concerns, yet that landscape design strategies could be employed to optimize the buff- ers function. For instance, a low berm or shrub between the trail and the residential uses would limit views of the residences while still enabling views into the park and beyond. It was also determined that any canopy trees included in the buffer should be carefully selected and located to maximize mountain views. 5. Water Feature The Donor’s Vision for the Park included a water feature as a central element of the Park. Although there was interest in establishing a lake or a pond that was similar to that depicted in the Donor’s vision, numerous concerns regard- ing the creation of such a feature arose during the planning process. These concerns ranged from the availability of water to fill the lake, water-wise us- age and efficiency, and attracting geese and their waste to the feasibility of maintaining a healthy system given the site’s hydrologic and geologic condi- tions. Furthermore, there was little potential to use the lake for irrigation or as a stormwater management feature due to health and safety requirements. A seasonal wetland was determined to be more compatible with the Park’s existing resources and future uses. A seasonal wetland would have benefits to habitat diversity, recreational and educational opportunities and would addi- 5 The VEP Community Association is a volunteer organization that repre- sents neighborhoods to the north and west of the Park. Subdivisions represented by VEP include, but are not limited to, Vistapark, Encore and Echo Valley, Parkview Valley, and Blossom Hill Heights. 174 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 74 tionally provide a natural buffer from potential flooding along Canoas Creek. Historically, a seasonal wetland was located on the site and participants in the planning process favored re-establishing this historic feature in proximity to Canoas Creek in order to connect habitat and stormwater management fea- tures. 6. Public Access and Circulation The Park’s regional draw and neighborhood setting combine to make public access, parking and circulation key issues for the Park. The Plan addresses the following issues related to public access and circulation. a. Transit Connections Caltrain provides frequent passenger train service between San José and San Francisco seven days a week, with extended service to Morgan Hill and Gilroy during commute hours. Although Caltrain’s Blossom Hill Station on Monterey Road is within close proximity of the Park, the Canoas Creek channel separates the Park from the station. In order for transit to be a viable option for park visitors, pedestrian access is necessary between the station and the Park. b. Local Access/ Road Widening The City of San Jose plans to widen two of the three roads that border the Park. The widening of Snell Avenue and Branham Lane would potentially decrease the Park area along both roads by as much as 40 feet, and would alter the edge conditions of the Park. These alterations could improve local access to the Park and provide pedestrian and bicycle amenities. Although both the Snell Avenue and Branham Lane roadway widening pro- jects have been deferred by the City, the Plan must present a plan for local access and edge conditions that will be effective both before and after any roadway widening projects. The two areas of the Park most sensitive to this future change are the Park perimeter and entry roads. For instance, features that may be needed or desired for the Park entrance, including signage, entry 175 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 75 kiosk, pedestrian walkways and signal light, will need to be placed with con- sideration to existing sight lines as well as the future road improvements. c. Park Entrance Currently, the entire site is fenced and gated. Access to the site is provided for Park Operations and Maintenance staff and emergency vehicles through two access gates located along the western boundary; two gated access points in the northeast portion of the site at Branham Lane; and one access gate along Snell Avenue just north of the Life Estate Area. There is an existing signalized turn lane from Branham Lane into the Park as well as several less developed gated entrances along Snell Avenue and Chynoweth Avenue. The location of the Park entrance may affect visibility, traffic patterns, vehicular and pedestrian safety, development cost, as well as the user experience. Al- though the Donor’s vision originally identified an entrance location on Chynoweth Avenue, the Donor was supportive of considering alternate loca- tions. Draft Alternatives developed as part of the planning process showed options for the main Park entrance at Branham Lane, Snell Avenue, or Chynoweth Avenue. Participants in the planning process agreed that the entrance should be inviting and easily accessible, that it should convey the Park’s agricultural character and that it should be located to minimize traffic conflicts. Traffic studies conducted during the planning process concluded that none of the proposed entrance locations would cause significant traffic impacts and that all were feasible. However, local residents expressed concern regarding traffic at each of the entrances and as a result public preference for entrance location was generally divided among the three options. The Plan will identify an entrance location that is best suited for visibility and will facilitate clear flow of Park traffic. d. Pedestrian Entrances Pedestrian entrances to the Park will make the Park more accessible to transit users, bicyclists and local residents who do not require vehicular transporta- The western segment of Chynoweth Avenue terminates at the Park’s western boundary 176 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 76 tion to reach the Park. While the importance of including such features was not debated during the planning process, there were several different perspec- tives regarding the appropriate number of entrances. The Donor’s Vision identified two pedestrian-only entrances along Branham Lane as well as access at the two vehicular entrances on Chynoweth Avenue and the two roads that would connect through the Park. However, local residents tended to favor maximizing the number of entrances, although immediate neighbors of the Park preferred limiting the number of entrances near private residences. On the other hand, County staff expressed concern regarding the time required to unlock and lock entrance gates based on the Park’s operating hours. As a result, County staff recommended that the number of entrance gates be minimized and that access control gates be provided at each entrance. The Plan identifies adequate park entrances to facilitate access for transit users and local residents, while minimizing impacts on Park resources. e. Internal Circulation Aside from dirt roads used by the Donor and his lessee, there is no other de- fined internal circulation system within the park boundaries. The Plan will define the Park’s future internal circulation system with consideration to the function, hierarchy and aesthetic character. Considerations related to the internal circulation system included the com- patibility of different transportation types, including farm and service vehi- cles, emergency vehicles, park visitor vehicles, buses and non-vehicular traffic. Aesthetic considerations that received significant discussion during the plan- ning process included whether the roads should be on a strict grid, consistent with common agricultural roads and most efficient for agricultural uses, or whether some roads should meander to reflect rural roads. The Plan resolves these issues by establishing different characteristics for public and service roads. f. Parking Parking to accommodate daily visitors as well as large events was considered a necessary park component since the early phases of the planning for Martial 177 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 77 Cottle Park. Determining appropriate size, location and character for park- ing areas was an issue that drew attention from many participants in the planning process. Concern was expressed that too much parking would de- tract from the character of the Park, and that too little parking would result in neighboring streets becoming overcrowded. The Plan provides guidelines for accommodating daily and large event parking, as well as guidelines for reducing the visual and environmental impact of parking lots and deterring parking in surrounding neighborhoods. Deterring neighborhood parking is considered beneficial by neighboring residents as well as by County Parks, since fees for on-site parking will contribute to the ongoing maintenance and operations of the Park. 7. Cooperative Partnerships The urban setting and distinct vision for the Park drew the interest of many agencies and organizations interested in operating programs that they under- stood to be compatible with the grant deed for the Park. Several of the or- ganizations were able to provide the County with input as to the needs and requirements of the programs that they were familiar with, such as youth agriculture and demonstration gardens, and community gardens. This infor- mation proved useful in determining the type of programs that would best meet the goals for the Park and would be most compatible with the Park’s resource base and urban context. The Plan must identify the type of programs that will be operated on site as well as potential partners for operating these programs. However, since the Plan is intended to be a long-term planning document for the Park and allow a certain degree of flexibility in meeting Plan goals, it would not be appropri- ate for the Plan to be dependent on any specific organization or to limit fu- ture partners. 8. Interpretation The grant deed for the Park stipulates that the Park shall “be used exclusively as a public historical park that informs and educates the public about the agri- 178 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 78 cultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley, as exemplified by the Martial Cot- tle family, dating from the 1850s into the 20th century.” The language of the grant deed is relatively general and could be interpreted to solely emphasize the history of the Martial Cottle family in Santa Clara Valley. The County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors raised the question of how the history of migrant farm workers would be addressed at the Park at their August 12, 2008 meeting. In response, County staff members had completed an Oral History project with the Donor, Mr. Walter Cottle Les- ter, to document the presence and contributions of the migrant farm workers whom Mr. Lester recalled working at Cottle Ranch. In addition, County Parks staff worked with History San Jose, the Japanese American Citizens League, and other organizations to extend additional community outreach and conduct academic research about migrant workers’ contribution to the valley. This Plan will present themes for interpretation that consider the rich multicultural history of migrant farm workers that will help educate the pub- lic on their contributions to the agricultural history for “The Valley of Heart’s Delight.” Although the Martial Cottle family will be highlighted by the interpretive program in accordance with the grant deed, access to the Life Estate Area will not be provided from the Park until a future time. The Plan must identify ways that the donation of the Park to the County and the property transfer to the State can be interpreted without drawing undesired attention to the Life Estate Area. 9. Future Planning Although this Plan does not address the Life Estate Area, it is critical that this plan be cognizant of future planning efforts that will require an update and/or amendment to the Plan to address the Life Estate Area once the prop- erty becomes available to the County. As depicted in the Donor’s vision, the future, programmatic intent of the Life Estate Area is focused on historic and interpretive uses that will connect to the existing Park. Future planning will 179 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 79 also include consideration of the 2.34-acre Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) parcel adjacent to southeast corner of site and the 0.75-acre “tear drop” private property on the corner of Chynoweth and Snell Avenues. 180 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL KEY ISSUES AND ANALYSIS 80 181 81 4 PARK PLAN Before anything else, preparation is the key to success. – Alexander Graham Bell The Martial Cottle Park (Park) State General Plan/County Park Master Plan (the Plan) will guide the long-term development and management of the Park. Following the presentation of the Park’s purpose, vision, and State Park and County Park classifications, this chapter presents land use management zones and a circulation plan that will further guide the physical development of the Park. Finally, goals and guidelines for the development and long-term man- agement of the Park are presented for the park as a whole and for each land use management zone. A. Purpose and Vision 1. Declaration of Purpose Public Resource Code Section 5019.50 requires that the Plan specify a declara- tion of purpose that broadly defines long-range management objectives. The Donor’s vision for the property is synonymous with the Park’s purpose. The Donor’s vision for the Park is that it be jointly developed, operated, and maintained as a County-State public historic agricultural park in a manner that will promote and sustain farming traditions thereby showing and dis- playing the agricultural heritage of Santa Clara Valley from the mid 1850s into the 20th century, while also providing passive recreational, interpretive, educational, research and commercial use opportunities that are reasonably related to the primary historical purpose of the Park. 2. Proposed Declaration of Purpose The Park will be developed, operated, and maintained as a public historic agricultural park to promote and sustain farming traditions thereby showing and displaying the agricultural heritage of Santa Clara Valley from the mid 1850s into the 20th century. It will also provide passive recreational, interpre- tive, educational, research, and commercial use opportunities compatible with the primary historical purpose of the Park. The Park Plan will guide the long-term development and management of the Park 182 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 82 Together with the grant deed and project vision, below, the Declaration of Purpose informs and guides the development of the Plan as well as subsequent planning decisions. 3. Grant Deed Park development and use is guided by the grant deed from Walter Cottle Lester to the County and the State. It states: No part of the property shall be used for high intensity, organized recrea- tional uses such as athletic fields, playgrounds, tot lots, swimming pools, play courts, amusement rides or similar uses, nor as a repository for his- toric structures that are relocated from other Sites. The Property shall be used exclusively as a public historical park that informs and educates the public about the agricultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley, as exem- plified by the Martial Cottle family, dating from the 1850’s into the 20th century. The property may be used for passive recreational activities such as picnic facilities, trails, and other low Intensity uses that may be incidental to the primary historic and educational purposes of the park, and for interpretative, passive recreational, agricultural education and re- search and commercial uses that are reasonably related to the history of farming in the Santa Clara Valley. In addition, commercial uses such as agricultural leases, produce stands, community gardens, farmer’s markets, interpretative programs or similar uses may be allowed if reasonably re- lated to the primary historical purpose of the park. 4. Park Vision The Park vision provides an image of the Park’s ideal future appearance and character. The vision for the Park is as follows: The establishment of the Park will not only protect a rich piece of Santa Clara Valley’s history and 287.54 acres of fertile farmland in perpetuity, but it will enhance the soil and land to provide a unique agricultural, recreational, and educational resource. The main uses of the Park will include agricultural production, habitat enhancement, recreational facilities and trails, and educa- 183 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 83 tional and interpretive programming related to the Park’s cultural and natural resources. The Park will provide a range of educational and recreational op- portunities that will be accessible to all users. Over half of the Park will be in agricultural production, providing food pri- marily for local and regional markets. Sustainable farming practices1 will be employed in order to reduce impacts to, and potentially enhance, the health of the soil, water, habitat, and food resources. The changing crops provide for seasonal interest throughout the year, as well as diverse produce for the markets. Park visitors will have the opportunity to witness sustainable farm- ing in action from the walking trails throughout the park, and will be able to purchase park-grown produce from the on-site produce stand and farm café. In addition to the on-site marketing opportunities for farmers, the Park will include facilities for produce storage, processing and packaging. The market- ing and other on-site facilities will ensure that farming the Park is a viable opportunity for farmers and that park visitors are able to enjoy truly fresh Park produce. The Park’s natural resources will be enhanced not only through agricultural practices, but through the restoration of seasonal wetland habitat along the Canoas Creek channel. These efforts will enhance the ecological diversity of the Park, provide additional educational opportunities, and contribute to healthy organic farms by creating habitat for beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife. Retaining existing trees and establishing diverse hedgerows will also contribute to these efforts. A small native plant nursery located on- site will support on-site and regional habitat enhancement efforts. Agricultural education opportunities will be abound in the Park. In addition to interpretive signage provided along trails and at key points of interest, a 1 Sustainable farming practices integrate natural biological cycles and con- trols; protect and renews soil fertility and the natural resource base; and minimize adverse impacts on health, safety, wildlife, water quality, and the environment. 184 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 84 cooperative partner will establish demonstration gardens and youth agricul- tural facilities that will provide educational opportunities for park visitors and program participants. Historical farming practices may also be demonstrated during special events and activities. Recreational activities within the Park will be passive, supported by a trail network through agricultural land and through the enhanced seasonal wet- lands, and by picnic grounds and day use facilities. A visitor center, a multi- use outdoor pavilion, grassy area and picnic areas will provide opportunities for a range of community gatherings. B. Classification The Park is classified under the California State Parks and the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department (County Parks) system. 1. California State Park Classification and Naming The classification system for State Parks, established by the Public Resources Code Section 5019.56-5019.68, provides the broadest management guideline for a park unit. Park units are classified as State recreation units, historic units, seashores, reserves, State wildernesses, natural preserves, or cultural preserves based on a unit’s primary values and identified purposes. The California State Park and Recreation Commission adopted the classifica- tion of State Recreation Area for the Park on October 31, 2008. The Public Resources Code states that, for all State park units including recreation areas, “consideration shall be given to compatibility of design with the surrounding scenic and environmental characteristics.” The Public Resources Code distin- guishes State Recreation Areas as: “…consisting of areas selected and developed to provide multiple recreational op- portunities to meet other than purely local needs. The areas shall be selected for their having terrain capable of withstanding extensive human impact and for 185 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 85 their proximity to large population centers, major routes of travel, or proven rec- reational resources such as manmade or natural bodies of water.” This classification was recommended by the Director of California State Parks because it will allow for flexibility in developing visitor use and inter- pretive facilities and continued agricultural use of the California State Parks property consistent with the Donor’s vision. 2. Regional Parkland Classification County Parks is charged with the dual mission of preserving the natural and historic resources of the County Parks system and of providing recreation opportunities and facilities for public use. According to the Strategic Plan for the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation System, “a regional parkland clas- sification provides a framework within which systemwide use and manage- ment strategies may be applied for the programming, orderly development, and use of regional parks. Standardization of the classification system further assures uniform implementation of system-wide strategies.” Through park classification, the dominant character and principal values of an area are defined. The regional parkland classification system establishes five categories of regional park use in Santa Clara County, which can be ap- plied in whole to an individual park, or to individual zones within a park. These classifications include Regional Park Resource Bank, Regional Park Natural Area, Regional Park Rural Recreation Area, Regional Park Urban Recreation Area, and Regional Historic Sites. A combined classification of Urban Recreation Area and Historic Site is ap- propriate for the County-owned portion of the Park. In contrast to the lim- ited low-impact recreation allowed on a Historic Site, the Urban Recreation Area designation allows for the following potential Park program elements: Open meadow play areas. Special recreation use facilities (i.e. par course, special events, and festi- vals). Large group and corporate picnicking. 186 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 86 Developed use facilities (i.e. visitor center, multi-use outdoor pavilion, re- strooms, family and group picnic facilities). Trails. Parking/staging. Agriculture in support of historic interpretive programs. C. Land Use Zones Land use zones define the use and management scheme for the Park. Imple- mentation of this Plan will lead to the development of more diverse land uses than the current, low-intensity agricultural land use. These land uses will include: various forms of agricultural, habitat enhancement, passive recrea- tion, and agricultural history and modern agricultural education. Each of these uses is associated with distinct management goals and objectives, and occupies well-defined areas of the park. In order to facilitate the management of these areas, four land use zones have been established for the Park. The zones will guide the development of the Park, ensuring that the intensity and character of each area contributes to the overall vision for the Park. The zones are shown in Figure 4-1 and described below. Additional design rec- ommendations are provided in Chapter 6, Design Guidelines. 1. Park and Recreation Zone The Park and Recreation Zone is a broad management zone that encompasses all areas and facilities related to recreation and visitor services that will be managed by County Parks. Most of this management zone is concentrated in the northeast portion of the park. This management zone includes public components of the circulation system (described below in section D) which will overlap into other management zones, and the following uses, all of which have a common purpose of serving the general public: Main Park Complex. The Main Park Complex will include public build- ings such as a visitor center and a multi-use outdoor pavilion, as well as open park areas for passive recreational activities. The visitor center 187 FIGURE 4-1PARK PLAN LAND USE AND MANAGEMENT ZONESMARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLANDRAFT FINALPark and Recreation ZoneLeased Agriculture ZoneCooperative Management ZoneHabitat Enhancement ZoneAgricultural Marketing AreaMain EntranceOverfl ow Parking Visitor CenterMain Public ParkingPavilion Main Park ComplexFarm Corp YardPark Corp YardResearch, Demonstration Gardens and Youth Agriculture Programs Urban Forestry, Community Gardens, and Shared ParkingWestern Use AreaSeasonal WetlandNative Plant NurseryCanoas Creek EnhancementPotential ParkingBRANHAM LANECHYNOWETH AVENUEHWY 85SNELL AVENUE3000600 FeetNORTH188 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 88 will serve as the base for Park operations and may ultimately include in- terpretive exhibits, a gift store, classrooms, staff offices, restrooms, and other facilities. The pavilion will include a kitchen and will provide a venue for special events and large group gatherings such as harvest festi- vals, interpretive programs, farmers’ market uses, and major community events. The Park’s open spaces will provide opportunities for passive recreation, such as hiking and picnicking, as well as interpretation and educational programming. Picnic areas will range in size and include large group areas that could be available for private rental for special events, small picnic areas near trails and other features, and walk-in picnic areas. Picnic areas may include barbeque grills and/or pits, picnic ta- bles/benches, water fountains, restrooms, shade structures, and rain shel- ters. Interpretive and educational facilities and programs will be included in this area. This area will provide approximately 10 acres of parking, in- cluding paved parking lots and overflow parking areas, as well as rest- rooms, potable water, shaded areas, emergency and service access, park- ing, garbage and recycling facilities. Additional parking spaces will be provided by an overflow parking area. Western Use Area. The Western Use Area will provide opportunities for passive recreation, picnicking, and environmental education in proximity to the enhanced Canoas Creek and the seasonal wetland. This area will provide opportunities for nature observation and natural resources edu- cation, picnicking, and hiking. A small parking lot with capacity for ap- proximately 25 cars and 1 to 2 school buses will be provided. This area will be accessed on a reservation and/or limited use basis. Trails. Trails link all the Land Use Zones and will be a significant recrea- tional amenity at Martial Cottle Park. Where necessary, trails will be fenced to discourage conflicts with surrounding uses. A perimeter trail around the Park will provide for multiple uses, including walking, hik- ing, jogging, biking, and horseback riding. In addition, pedestrian-only interior trails will provide access through the Park and between elements. Trail connections will be established to the City of San José’s citywide 189 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 89 trail system. Support facilities for the Park’s internal trail network in- clude potable water, shade areas, staging areas, bicycle parking facilities, emergency and service access, gates and fencing where needed, and educa- tional, regulatory, informational, and directional signage. Buffers. Buffers at Martial Cottle Park will be landscaped areas that pro- vide a separation between agricultural and other land uses, and between the Park and surrounding land uses. Many of the buffers will also in- clude a recreational trail. Park Support Facilities. Support facilities for Park operations are likely to include a Park corporation yard and a possible caretakers residence. These facilities are to be located and designed so as to minimize interfer- ence with the serene, agricultural character of the Park. 2. Leased Agricultural Zone Production agriculture will be a dominant land use within the Park, compris- ing approximately 140 acres. Agricultural fields are consolidated into large, contiguous blocks in order to promote efficient agricultural activities. This zone includes the agricultural land, as well corporation yards and marketing areas that support agricultural uses and service roads that primarily support farming activities. Production. Farmer(s) will lease land in the Park for the production of food and other crops, including row crops, and orchards. Given the ag- ronomic conditions and scale of the Park, it will be possible to produce most of the crops and other agricultural products that historically were produced in Santa Clara Valley. These include: fruits, nuts and vegeta- bles; grains; legumes; animal feed and forage crops; rangeland and pasture for livestock production; seed crops; oilseed crops; nursery stock; live- stock; and poultry. Which products are grown will likely be determined by the producer or producers involved, by the demands of their target markets, and by conditions of their lease agreement. Support Facilities. Support facilities for agricultural production will be necessary to ensure viable operations. These facilities may include, but Mixed planting along agricultural field in Watsonville, CA (Photo by Sam Earnshaw) Agricultural field with hedgerow in the distance in San Jaun Bautista, CA (Photo by Sam Earnshaw) 190 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 90 are not limited to, a corporation yard and storage areas, irrigation sys- tems, and would be separate from the facilities utilized by County Parks and the general public. Commercial Sale Facilities. The financial success of the agricultural op- erations depends as much on the post-harvest activities and facilities, as it does on the production capacity. In turn, by creating opportunities to add value to the agricultural products produced on-site, the Park could increase its own revenue. Commercial facilities provided at the Park may include a farmers market area, a produce stand, a farm café and catering facilities. Processing and packaging facilities may also be included in commercial areas in order to provide opportunities for value-added mar- keting of farm produce and the distribution of farm produce to other lo- cations. 3. Habitat Enhancement Zone – Canoas Creek and Seasonal Wetland Habitat enhancement at the Park will benefit the area’s natural communities as well as integrated pest management efforts for both agricultural and park areas. In addition, habitat enhancement will create recreational and educa- tional opportunities. Although other areas of the Park, such as landscaped buffers, will provide habitat and contribute to the overall natural diversity of the Park’s vegetation, this management zone is intended only for Canoas Creek and surrounding land, which will be specifically managed to enhance habitat as described below. Canoas Creek. Vegetative enhancements will be made to the area adja- cent to the Canoas Creek channel in order to improve its habitat func- tion and aesthetic value. The channel, including the existing concrete bottom, will not be modified. Seasonal Wetland. A seasonal wetland adjacent to the Canoas Creek channel will provide recreational opportunities, enhance the habitat value of the Park, and contribute to stormwater management. Recreational amenities in this area will be limited to trails, which may be closed when necessitated by flood conditions. Habitat enhancment will benefit the area’s natural communities and create recreational and educational opportunities 191 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 91 The Habitat Enhancement Zone will provide ample opportunities for inter- pretation and education. The Western Use Area, described above, will be located adjacent to the Habitat Enhancement Zone and will provide a staging area and picnic grounds that allow visitors, including school groups, to enjoy this area with minimal impact to the sensitive resources. 4. Cooperative Management Zone The Cooperative Management Zone will be managed by entities other than County Parks, either through lease agreements or other arrangements. The leased agriculture areas utilized for production agriculture, as described above, are not included in this management zone. There are six sub-zones within this management zone. These subzones were established based on specific use and/or management and include research, demonstration gardens, youth agri- culture, native plant nursery, community gardens, and urban forestry, as de- scribed below. Demonstration gardens. Demonstration gardens will demonstrate sus- tainable farming and gardening practices. These gardens will include plots for experimentation, training and events pertaining to gardening. Youth agriculture. Youth agriculture programs will provide opportuni- ties for children to experience farm activities such as raising and caring for animals, growing plants, and other farm chores. This program may include barns, greenhouses and other support facilities, but will be pre- dominantly grazing and agricultural land. Youth agriculture areas may be used by groups such as the UCCE 4-H program, Future Farmers of America, or other similar programs. Research. Research in sustainable agriculture will support on-site farm- ing operations as well as those throughout the State. Programs operated in the Research area may include data collection, limited demonstration areas, and exploration and experimentation relating to crops of interest and new farming practices. The area designated for agricultural research may include minimal storage, security fencing and support facilities, but will be comprised primarily of agricultural land. 192 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 92 Native plant nursery. A native plant nursery will propagate and grow plants that are native to Santa Clara County for restoration and habitat enhancement projects in the region. Community gardens. Community gardens contain publicly accessible garden plots for the use of City and County residents for raising fruit, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Urban forestry. A community-based urban forestry program will grow native trees to be planted primarily in urban and park areas throughout the region in order to provide shade and ecological services such as air and water purification and soil building. This program will provide op- portunities for community members to engage in urban enhancement projects. D. Circulation Plan The Circulation Plan for the Park will guide the development of Park en- trance points, roads, and trails for vehicular and non-vehicular use. These components are shown in Figure 4-2 and described below. All parking, trails, and facilities will be consistent with the Board-approved Santa Clara County Countywide Trails Master Plan Update (1995), the Uniform Interjurisdictional Trail Use, Design and Management Guidelines (1999), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. 1. Park Entrances There will be one public vehicular entrance to the Park, located off of Snell Avenue, to include an entrance kiosk, signage, pedestrian walkways, and landscape features that create a visible, inviting gateway into the Park. The proposed entrance would be aligned slightly north of the Life Estate Area, offset from Kehoe Court, and will include bicycle and pedestrian access. Ad- ditional vehicular entrances will be provided for service and emergency vehi- cles. These are located on Branham Lane across from Branham Plaza, and on 193 * * * * * ** * * *Public Vehicular AccessService/ Emergency AccessNon-Vehicular AccessPrimary Vehicular RoadSecondary/ Service RoadSidewalkUnpaved Multi-use TrailPedestrian Trail*** * * *BRANHAM LANECHYNOWETH AVENUEHWY 85SNELL AVENUEMARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLANAND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLANDRAFT FINALFIGURE 4-2CIRCULATION PLAN0 300 600 FeetNORTHCooperative Management Zone EntranceFuture Connection to City of San Jose Trail SystemConnection to VTA Blossom Hill Station Future Undercrossing/ Connection to Blossom Hill Road Main Park Entrance194 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 94 Chynoweth Avenue at Avenida Almendros and Duesenberg Drive. These secondary entrances will also serve as exits during special events and festivals. There will ultimately be eight non-vehicular entrances from the perimeter of the Park to the multiple use trails that lead to the Park and Recreation Zone. 2. Vehicular Circulation Separate vehicular circulation systems for public access and service/ emergency vehicle access will be provided at the Park. The separate systems will reduce the potential for conflicts between the general public, agricultural, and park operations circulation. The public vehicular entrance will be located on Snell Avenue. An entry ki- osk, stacking lanes and a vehicular turn-around will be located near the en- trance, far enough from Snell Avenue to provide adequate distance for queu- ing. Public access roads will provide access to the main public parking area, overflow parking area as well as the parking area near the Western Use Area. Internal intersections will have stop signs and signage indicating access restric- tions. Access past the main parking lot, including access to the Western Use Area, will be restricted in order to limit traffic on-site when necessary. Four gated service and emergency vehicular entrances are to be located in the Park, including a gated service/emergency entrance on the Park’s northern boundary along Branham Lane, a second one to the south along the eastern section of Chynoweth Avenue, and a third one to the west connecting to the western segment of Chynoweth Avenue. These entrances will provide daily access for farm vehicles and other service vehicles and to provide multiple access points for emergency vehicles. A fourth service entrance will provide access for cooperative partner uses, such as community gardens. All service entrances may be used by the public during large events or utilized for spe- cific program needs, such as the youth agriculture programs and demonstra- tion gardens. 195 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 95 3. Non-Vehicular Circulation Non-vehicular park entrances will provide walk-in access for pedestrians, bi- cyclists, skateboarders, and other non-motorized forms of transportation. These entrances will be strategically located around the Park’s perimeter to provide convenient access from surrounding neighborhoods and to establish connections from the VTA Station immediately south of the Park. The eight entrance points envisioned for the Park will all provide access to the perime- ter trail, which will direct traffic towards internal trails and major access points. The entrances are to be sited at the following locations: The corner of Snell Avenue and Branham Lane. Near the Park entrance on Snell Avenue. Near the eastern service road on Chynoweth Avenue. From the Blossom Hill VTA Station south of the Park via Canoas Creek. Under the Highway 85 overpass, connecting to Blossom Hill Road. At the terminus of the western segment of Chynoweth Avenue. On the north bank of the Canoas Creek Channel on the Park’s western boundary. At the terminus of Vistapark Drive on the Park’s western boundary. Park trails as well as sidewalks along Snell Avenue and Branham Lane will be managed by County Parks and are all considered to be part of the Park and Recreation Area. The Park’s trail network will include multiple use trails around the perimeter of the Park and provide internal connections between key destinations. Multiple-use trails can be utilized by pedestrians, dog- walkers, bicyclists, equestrians and other non-motorized forms of transporta- tion. Pedestrian-only trails will be located within the Main Park Complex, the Western Use Area, and the Habitat Enhancement Area. Trails in prox- imity to Canoas Creek and the Santa Clara Valley Water District mainte- nance road will be designed both to ensure safety for visitors and emergency access for the District. The trail network will provide access between park elements, and will allow the public to enjoy the park’s agricultural setting. Because the Park is essentially flat, it is expected that all trails will offer the same low level of difficulty. 196 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 96 4. Parking Approximately 10 acres of vehicular parking will be provided at the Park. Public parking lots will consist of one primary lot located in proximity to the visitor center, several smaller lots in proximity to the Western Use Area and other destinations, and an approximately 5-acre unpaved area near the main entrance designated for overflow parking. The paved public parking lots will be adequate to accommodate at least 532 vehicles. Additional smaller parking lots will be provided for the agricultural marketing area, the cooperative man- agement zone, corporation yards and other facilities as needed. E. Visitor Use Estimated visitor use at the Park resulting from the implementation of the Plan is 2,683 people on a typical weekday, and 4,610 people on a typical weekend day during the high season. Appendix D presents the assumptions and calculations used to determine potential visitor use. The use projection estimates are for all recreational uses, including trail users, as well as use by cooperative partners at the park. It estimated that, annually, there would be up to 52 medium-sized private events requiring facility rental, and two me- dium-sized public events held by cooperative partners. It is also assumed that two very large events, such as festivals for up to 6,000 visitors, would be held annually. F. Parkwide Unit Management Goals and Guidelines This section presents goals and guidelines for implementing the Declaration of Purpose and Vision for Martial Cottle Park described above. While some of the goals and guidelines apply to the entire project, others are specific to discrete planning areas or activities. Goals, guidelines, and objectives are defined by the California State Parks Draft Planning Handbook as follows: 197 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 97 Goal refers to a general, overall, and ultimate purpose, aim or intent to- wards which management will direct effort. Goals are not necessarily measurable except in terms of the achievement of component objective that are involved in the attainment of the goal. Guideline refers to a general set of parameters that provide direction for accomplishing goals. The Goals and guidelines described in this chapter are further supported by specific objectives provided in Chapter 6, Implementation. Objectives are defined by California State Parks as follows: Objective refers to a specific statement of expected accomplishment of desired future condition toward which management will direct efforts in the context of striving to achieve a broader goal. Objectives are achiev- able, and where possible measurable and time specific. 1. Fundamental Parkwide Goals This section includes goals that address multiple elements or areas of the Park, and may pertain to the park’s entirety. Ensure consistency with the goals and policies of California State Parks, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, Parks and Recreation De- partment, the Countywide Trails Master Plan, and the County General Plan. The Park's focus will be education and commemoration of Santa Clara County's agricultural history. Portions of the Park will be under agricul- tural use, and portions under educational and cultural uses, all for the promotion of local agriculture. Research and commercial agricultural uses will be limited to those that are reasonably related to the history of farming in the Santa Clara Valley Ensure public safety within all park ar- eas. Minimize conflict among park elements, between park users, and with surrounding land uses. 198 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 98 2. Natural Resource Management and Protection Goals and guidelines related to the management of natural resources are pre- sented in this section. Goal: Preserve and enhance natural resources within the Park consistent with the Park’s primary mission to provide for passive recreation, education and interpretive uses and supporting uses associated with agriculture. Guidelines: RESOURCES.1 Preserve and establish locally native vegetation communities and wildlife habitat within the Park to the extent possible while allowing for primary development of recreational and educational uses with supporting agricultural uses. a. Plant Life This section provides goals and guidelines serving to establish, preserve, and manage the Park for the suitability of desirable plant life. Goals: Establish native vegetative communities for long-term preservation. Preserve and enhance riparian habitat in the Western Use Area. Guidelines: PLANT.1 Promote native plant biodiversity and protect habitat for threat- ened and endangered plant species. PLANT.2 Preserve the existing valley oaks (Quercus lobata) by establishing buffer zones around existing specimens to prevent soil compac- tion and through regular monitoring of tree health. PLANT.3 Plant landscaped areas, including buffers and hedgerows, with species that, where possible, are native to the region and com- plement the Park’s agricultural activities. Plantings in riparian Preserving existing valley oaks is an important part of the Park Plan 199 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 99 and wetland areas, and other areas where possible, shall also be watershed specific. In addition, plants selected will attract bene- ficial insects and wildlife, but will not be known to attract agri- cultural pests nor be invasive. PLANT.4 Adhere to Ordinance Number NS-517.70, 5-21-02 of the Santa Clara County Municipal Code, which requires the elimination or reduction of pesticide application on County property to the maximum extent feasible. PLANT.5 Incorporate climate-appropriate and drought-tolerant species to reduce the amount of water used for irrigation in the non- agricultural areas of the Park. PLANT.6 Provide monitoring and maintenance to ensure the long-term health and survival of native plant communities. PLANT.7 Eradicate invasive plant species. PLANT.8 Avoid adverse impacts to wetland habitats and potential special- status plant species during construction, grading, and during any enhancement of park facilities or park elements. In the event that disturbance can not be avoided, a qualified botanist or ap- propriate resource agency representative will survey the site, prior to construction, to identify appropriate mitigation meas- ures to offset the disturbance. PLANT.9 Promote the establishment of native plant nursery to provide plants for on-site habitat restoration, for use in a native plants demonstration garden, and habitat restoration projects in other County parks and public projects. 200 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 100 b. Wildlife This section provides a goal and guidelines to preserve and enhance wildlife habitat within the Park where appropriate. Goal: Preserve the Park’s wildlife habitat and promote biodiversity. Guidelines: WILDLIFE.1 Locate visitor services and other high-impact areas away from sensitive wildlife habitat. WILDLIFE.2 Monitor construction and development activities to avoid and/or minimize impacts to special-status wildlife species. WILDLIFE.3 Minimize disturbances to wildlife habitat by restricting public access in sensitive habitat areas, including Canoas Creek, ripar- ian, and seasonal wetland areas. WILDLIFE.4 Perform integrated-pest management activities to maintain healthy populations of indigenous wildlife species and reduce invasive pests. WILDLIFE.5 Work with the California Department of Fish and Game to manage non-native red foxes that have recently been observed in the Park. c. Soil and Geologic Resources Goal: Maintain and enhance agricultural soils and minimize erosion. Guidelines: SOIL.1 Make agronomic suitability of the various soils types a primary consideration in site design. Mature trees provide habitat for raptors and other animal species A goal of the Park Plan is to enhance the Park’s agricultural soils 201 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 101 SOIL.2 Work with the soil conservation and agricultural partners (i.e. Natural Resource Conservation Service, the Santa Clara County Farm Bureau, etc.) to develop and implement a plan to improve soils in areas to be used for agriculture. SOIL.3 Employ sustainable agriculture practices for building soil health in agricultural areas, including tilling, soil conservation, cover crops, crop rotation, mulching, and composting. SOIL.4 Enrich soils with compost, compost tea and other natural soil amendments, and avoid synthetic fertilizers to the extent feasi- ble. SOIL.5 Provide information and education to farmers to promote the conservation of soil resources and reduce soil erosion. SOIL.6 Implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion and sediment control. SOIL.7 Minimize soil compaction in areas to be utilized for agriculture, open space, and habitat. SOIL.8 Require the use of best management practices to reduce and con- trol any dust created by agricultural activities. d. Water Resources Goals: Maximize the efficiency of water usage. Preserve and enhance water quality. Preserve and enhance the hydrologic function of Canoas Creek. Guidelines: HYDRO.1 Employ high-efficiency irrigation systems, controllers and schedules in agricultural, recreational and other areas of the Park requiring irrigation. At a minimum, the Park shall comply with 202 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 102 the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Ar- eas dedicated solely to edible plants will be considered Special Landscape Areas in the water budget calculations. HYDRO.2 Minimize irrigation in non-agricultural areas through water con- servation techniques such as the use of high-efficiency irrigation equipment, appropriate design, proper installation, proper main- tenance, and appropriate irrigation schedules. HYDRO.3 Capture and filter water runoff from parking lots in the non- agricultural areas of the Park using bioswales and green infra- structure. HYDRO.4 Reduce stormwater run-off by minimizing the amount of im- permeable surfaces in the park and incorporating pervious sur- face treatments where feasible. HYDRO.5 Adhere to County guidelines for use of pesticides and fertilizers in order to reduce potential adverse impacts to local and regional water resources. 3. Cultural Resources This section provides a goal and guidelines for the preservation and interpre- tation of cultural resources. Goal: Protect significant cultural resources and integrate the Park’s cultural re- sources and history into park programming. Guidelines: CULTURE.1 Interpret all significant archaeological, paleontological, his- torical, and cultural sites and artifacts. 203 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 103 CULTURE.2 Locate recreational, agricultural, interpretive, and other Park program elements to maximize interpretation of historic and other cultural resources. 4. Agriculture Goals and guidelines related to agricultural production, community gardens, agricultural research areas, and the Youth Agriculture areas are presented in this section. Goals: Develop and maintain viable agriculture for long-term operation. Provide a variety of opportunities for agricultural activities at Martial Cottle Park. Provide agricultural education to the public and staff. Guidelines: AG.1 Preserve agricultural character throughout the Park and among Park elements. AG.2 Individual agricultural operations within the Park should main- tain park themes and contribute to the overall mission of the park. AG.3 As feasible within viable agricultural operations and educational programming, preserve and incorporate historic crops and farm- ing methods, providing for interpretation and education about the historical farming practices of the Santa Clara Valley. AG.4 Encourage a diversity of agricultural crops and mixed crop and animal systems, as permitted by County’s public health policies. AG.5 Maintain viable agriculture businesses by providing a flexible range of plot sizes, and consider the needs of future agricultural uses. Agricultural fields define the Park‘s existing character 204 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 104 AG.6 Provide views of leased farm areas while providing adequate set- backs to allow for efficient farming. AG.7 Minimize conflicts between agriculture and other adjacent uses by establishing buffers and using fencing as appropriate, and by broadly disseminating information about seasonal agricultural operations. AG.8 Utilize sustainable farming practices that integrate natural bio- logical cycles and controls; protect and enhance soil fertility and the natural resource base; and minimize adverse impacts on pub- lic health, safety, wildlife, water quality and the environment. AG.9 Reference the California Invasive Plant Council listings of inva- sive plants and do not include identified species in farm plans, planting plans or new plantings in the Park. AG.10 Support outside marketing, such as farm-grown produce sales to local schools, healthcare organizations, community/senior cen- ters, private institutions and organizations. o Encourage the sale of produce grown at the park on-site and off-site. o Encourage the sale of locally-grown fresh produce on-site. AG.11 Implement best management practices to minimize potential impacts of animal husbandry within the Park, such as vectors, dust, and erosion. 5. Recreation This section provides goals and guidelines to ensure that the Park provides a high quality recreational experience for visitors. 205 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 105 Goals: Park services will be visitor-oriented, providing the public with access to agriculture education and passive recreational opportunities. Provide for a range of day-use, passive recreation and educational oppor- tunities that complement the Donor’s vision of a historic agricultural park and are consistent with the property’s deed restrictions. Guidelines: REC.1 Integrate passive recreational facilities with the park’s agricul- tural function and historical resources. REC.2 Provide facilities that will invite and facilitate the public use of the park, such as picnic facilities, meadows, multi-use trails, rest- rooms, water fountains, and benches. REC.3 Locate and design recreational facilities to be compatible with adjacent uses. REC.4 Balance the mix and distribution of recreational elements with elements that are needed for efficient park operations, such as the corporation yard, storage, and shed. REC.5 Provide facilities to serve large groups, such as group picnic ar- eas, central gathering space for events and festivals, as well as in- dividual park visitors. REC.6 Locate all trails outside of the Canoas Creek floodplain. REC.7 Adhere to or exceed County of Santa Clara park standards for design. REC.8 Provide trail related amenities such as wayfinding signs, maps, benches, shade, drinking water fountains, dog courtesy stations, trash and recycling receptacles. 206 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 106 6. Circulation and Access This section provides goals and guidelines to promote convenient and effi- cient movement throughout the Park. Goal: Provide safe and convenient access to the Park for a wide range of users. CIRC.1 Provide a single public vehicular entry to the Park that mini- mizes potential traffic and parking impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. CIRC.2 Design and maintain emergency access roads to meet Santa Clara County Fire Marshal Office standards. CIRC.3 Provide adequate parking on site to minimize parking on adja- cent residential streets. CIRC.4 Locate adequate visitor parking to reduce potential for circula- tion, parking, and visual impacts on adjacent neighborhoods. CIRC.5 Develop strategies for facilitating travel to and from the Park via alternative, non-automobile modes, such as bus, light rail, Cal- train, bicycle, and walking. CIRC.6 Provide bicycle parking according to VTA Countywide Bicycle Plan Technical Guidelines. CIRC.7 Work with the City of San José and the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to provide safe and convenient pedestrian and bicycle connections from nearby transit nodes that include bus stops, light rail, and Caltrain stations to the park. CIRC.8 Work with the City of San José and the VTA to provide multi- ple points of walk-in entry and crosswalks for pedestrians and Existing farm road connecting to Chynoweth Avenue 207 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 107 bicyclists to facilitate access to the Park from surrounding neighborhoods and regional transit. CIRC.9 Work with the VTA to develop safe and attractive designs for area bus stops serving park visitors, that is in keeping with its historic farming nature, to promote public transit as a preferred means of travel to the Park. CIRC.10 Work with the VTA and SCVWD to develop safe pedestrian and bicycle access to the Park from the Blossom Hill Light Rail Station. CIRC.11 Work with the VTA and Caltrans to develop access beneath Highway 85 to surrounding neighborhoods near Blossom Hill Road. CIRC.12 Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to develop trails along Canoas Creek. CIRC.13 Establish trail connections throughout the Park to provide con- venient connections between Park destinations. CIRC.14 Provide trails around the perimeter as well as through the Park that are designed to accommodate safe and compatible use by multiple trail user groups, including pedestrians, joggers, roller- bladers, bicyclists, and equestrians. CIRC.15 Provide accessible trails, access points and facilities for all peo- ple, regardless of physical abilities. CIRC.16 Provide a system of internal service roads that facilitates access and circulation of park vehicles and farm machinery (e.g. secu- rity patrol, maintenance trucks, tractors, etc.). 208 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 108 CIRC.17 Work with the City of San José on the future design of Park pe- rimeter and access treatments in conjunction with the roadway widening of Snell Avenue and Branham Lane. CIRC.18 Work with the City of San José to provide safe and comfortable pedestrian and bicycle crossings at all intersections leading to the park. CIRC.19 Develop a coordinated facilities use and parking strategy for spe- cial events that optimizes the beneficial use of parkland during non-event periods, avoids visual impacts associated with large parking lots, and minimizes parking impacts on adjacent residen- tial neighborhoods. 7. Concessions This section provides a goal and guidelines to support concessions that en- hance the visitor’s experience. Goal: Provide high quality visitor services through concessions that align with the mission of the Park and protect the Park’s natural, cultural, recrea- tional, and aesthetic resources. Guidelines: CONC.1 Provide concessions that enhance visitor services and align with the purpose and vision of the Park consistent with the deed re- strictions on the Park. CONC.2 Provide park concessions that are compliant with requirements of Public Resources Code Section 5080.03 addressing concessions in California State Parks. 209 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 109 CONC.3 Provide park concessions that are compliant with requirements of County Board Policies and County Parks’ Policies and Proce- dures addressing concessions on County parkland. CONC.4 Establish park concessions that abide by the guidelines set forth in State Park and Recreation Commission Policy I.7, “Operating Contracts”. CONC.5 Require food concessions to provide farm-fresh, nutritious food that is grown on-site when possible. CONC.6 Provide concessions and associated facilities that are of adequate size to accommodate anticipated visitor demand. CONC.7 Establish a range of concessions to provide prepared food, bever- ages, snack foods, catering services, and sundries. 8. Education and Interpretation This section provides goals and guidelines addressing the content and accessi- bility of education and interpretation of park elements. Goals: Provide educational opportunities for a broad cross-section of the public that address the agricultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley and Cali- fornia, on-going agricultural operations, and the Park’s natural resources. Create opportunities for interaction between the public and agricultural activities. Guidelines: INTERP.1 Establish partnerships with appropriate organizations such as the Santa Clara County Office of Education, school districts, the University of California Cooperative Extension, , nongovern- mental organizations and others to develop and implement edu- cational programs at the Park to further the park’s mission. Cottle Ranch in 1951 (photo courtesy of the Donor, included as part of the Oral History) 210 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 110 INTERP.2 Provide visitors with an understanding of the history of agricul- tural crops grown in the Santa Clara Valley and their role in the state, covering why certain crops were particularly amenable to the area, desirable at that time, how the land was farmed, and how the crops were produced and sent to market. INTERP.3 Develop programs and educational signage to interpret the agri- cultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley through the Cottle family’s agricultural practices, cultural traditions, and natural re- sources. Cultural and historical programming should be devel- oped in cooperation with California State Parks, the County of Santa Clara Historical and Genealogical Society and the County of Santa Clara Historical Heritage Commission. INTERP.4 Develop and implement hands-on training and education for people of all ages and backgrounds in agriculture, gardening, food production, and related topics as both vocation and avoca- tion. INTERP.5 Provide classroom facilities and/or multi-use space to accommo- date educational programs related to the Park’s agricultural, his- toric, interpretive and recreational uses. INTERP.6 Provide a mix of interpretive and educational programs that are interactive and experiential in nature, in addition to traditional exhibits. Use internet technology to expand marketing and out- reach for the park’s educational programs where feasible. INTERP.7 Make interpretation engaging, address multiple learning styles, and accommodate people with disabilities by using varied inter- pretation techniques and media. INTERP.8 Emphasize tactile, auditory and object related media that are dynamic or dramatic. Use a well designed mixture of media to 211 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 111 make exhibits interesting and make interpretation accessible to all visitors. INTERP.9 Prepare an Interpretation Master Plan to develop and guide in- terpretive and educational services in the park. Interpretive Periods:2 Interpretive periods define what spans of history will be covered by the park’s cultural history interpretation. A primary interpretive period focuses interpretation on the time period of greatest significance in the park’s cultural history. The significance is determined by important events associated with the park site. Choosing the primary and secondary interpretive periods also involves considering what stories area best told in a particular park, the dis- tinctiveness of the resources, the amount of information available to draw upon, and the physical evidence available for visitors to relate to. A secon- dary interpretive period designates a time period that is worthy of interpreta- tion but that should receive less emphasis than the primary period. Except for major natural phenomena such as earthquakes or fire, interpretive periods generally are just set for cultural resource interpretation. In the 2003 Grant Deed for Martial Cottle Park, the general focus for the primary interpretive period is provided in the following statement: “The Property shall be used exclusively as a public historical park that informs and educates the public about the agricultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley, as exemplified by the Martial Cottle family, dating from the 1850s into the 20th century.” Since the Grant Deed focuses on the above interpretation time period, secondary interpretive periods will be considered in the development of the Interpretation Master Plan for the park when the Life Estate Area be- comes available to the County. As examples, secondary interpretive periods 2 Introductory text beneath Interpretive Periods copied from Ano Nuevo State Park General Plan, Chapter 4, Park Plan, Interpretation and Education, page 4- 58). 212 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 112 may include the Ohlone (or Costanoans as cited in many resources), Mission San Jose (1769 – 1833) and Rancho Santa Teresa (1834 – 1848). Primary Interpretive Period: This period encompasses the time that the Cottle family and their descen- dents, the Lester family, used the land for agriculture (1864 – present). Interpretive Themes:3 An interpretive theme is a succinct, central message about a topic of interest that a communicator wants to get across to an audience. Interpretation uses themes to connect visitors to the significant recreational, natural, and cultural resources of the park in personally meaningful ways. Themes provide a point of view for presenting information and inspiration through various interpre- tive media. Primary themes address the park’s most significant topics; secon- dary themes relate information about slightly less-important park topics. The unifying theme integrates all of the park’s primary and secondary themes. Interpretive themes for Martial Cottle Park are listed below. Unifying Theme: Like a quality quilt that lasts beyond a lifetime, the local people, wildlife and plants of the Santa Clara Valley are intertwined threads that have continued to survive through time and change. Theme #1: Primary. The Martial Cottle family ranch is a rare example of a Santa Clara Valley family ranch that has lasted approximately 150 years (1864 to present). Secondary. The Cottle family and their descendents nurtured and farmed these lands for approximately 150 years. 3 Introductory text beneath Interpretive Themes copied from Ano Nuevo State Park General Plan, Chapter 4, Park Plan, Interpretation and Education, page 4- 59). 213 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 113 Secondary. Migrant farm workers contributed to the success of the fam- ily ranch, the community and overall Santa Clara Valley. Theme #2: Primary. Local agriculture is an integral component for healthy and sus- tainable cities. Secondary. The agricultural traditions can be carried on today in the park through demonstration gardens, youth agriculture, sustainable agri- culture research and community gardens helping the local community to become healthy and the city sustainable. Theme #3: Primary. Enhancing wildlife habitat through restoring the seasonal wet- lands and protecting valley oaks is critical for local biodiversity in a highly developed urban community. Secondary. Canoas Creek, once a seasonal wetland, is now contained in a channel with concrete bottom and earthen sides and needs habitat en- hancement to provide a more natural condition to increase biodiversity. Secondary. Valley Oaks are the only remnants of the Valley Oak Sa- vanna plant community that once thrived in this area and provide wild- life habitat and are a reminder of the area’s past natural state. 9. Visual and Scenic Resources This section provides a goal and guidelines for the preservation of visual and scenic resources within the Park. Goal: Develop the Park’s visual character while preserving high quality scenic vistas provided from within the Park. Guidelines: VIS.1 Establish park areas to adequately serve as buffers and transition spaces that separate different uses and enhance visual character. Diablo range as viewed from the Park 214 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 114 VIS.2 Maintain vistas to surrounding hills and retain a sense of open- ness within the Park. VIS.3 Visually screen or buffer foreground views of adjacent residential development while preserving background views to distant mountains. VIS.4 Provide visual buffers along the adjoining street corridors (Bran- ham, Snell, and Chynoweth) and Highway 85 that reduce the visual prominence of automobile traffic from within the Park. Maintain adequate views into the Park to ensure visitor safety and preserve scenic views from surrounding neighborhoods. VIS.5 Create visual buffers or screens along the western edge of the Park to reduce the potential for privacy conflicts between park operations and adjacent residences. VIS.6 Preserve and enhance views of buildings or other structures with architectural and historical significance while maintaining the privacy of the Life Estate Area. VIS.7 Through the use of vegetative plantings and/or buffers, visually screen views of maintenance facilities, storage yards, and other facilities or structures that may detract from the park’s scenic quality. VIS.8 Provide limited and fully shielded site lighting only as necessary for public safety to minimize potential impacts on park neighbors, the night sky, and wildlife habitat. VIS.9 Park structures and recreational facilities should be visually sub- ordinate secondary to productive agriculture and the natural landscape. 215 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 115 10. Utilities and Infrastructure The goal and guidelines in this section address adequate provision of utilities and infrastructure among various park uses. Goals: Provide adequate water supply for all park uses. Provide adequate utilities and infrastructure to support park uses. Encourage use of self-sustaining energy systems for electricity and heating and cooling within all park structures and park use areas. Maximize the amount of solid waste diverted to the landfill through re- use, composting, and recycling. Guidelines: UTIL.1 Develop a water supply trunk system with meters that services the Park and Recreation Zone within the Park and that allows flexibility in the operations and leasing of agriculture areas. UTIL.2 Encourage use of recycled/reclaimed water where appropriate, and harvest rainwater and greywater for use in non-agricultural irrigation where feasible. New infrastructure should allow for potential future connection to recycled water sources. UTIL.3 Utilize high efficiency, low water-use indoor infrastructure such as toilets and urinals. UTIL.4 Maximize use of sustainable energy practices such as the use of solar, and wind, passive solar, and geothermal technologies. UTIL.5 Provide high-speed internet connections for administrative pur- poses. UTIL.6 Limit lighting in the Park and utilize fully-shielded solar- powered LED light standards. 216 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 116 UTIL.7 Utilize passive cooling techniques where possible. UTIL.8 Underground all utility connections. UTIL.9 Provide adequate utility connections and infrastructure in loca- tions that are conveniently accessible for a variety of park uses. UTIL.10 Encourage recycling services and the means and methods for collecting and separating each type of debris deemed reusable or recyclable. Encourage on-site composting, mulching or reuse of plant debris. UTIL.11 Require concessionaires to use recyclable and/or compostable materials. UTIL.12 Work with the City of San José to establish a program that minimizes the amount of waste sent to landfills from the Park. The program should include strategies adopted from the City of San José’s Zero Waste Event Program. 11. Land Use Compatibility This section provides goals and guidelines pertaining to the relationship be- tween the Park and its neighboring communities. Goals: Locate park elements with consideration to protecting the Park’s natural resources and avoidance of potential conflicts with adjacent land uses. Keep local neighborhood organizations informed about programs, activi- ties and development occurring within the Park. Guidelines: LAND.1 Distribute agricultural, recreational, and maintenance uses sensi- tively and provide appropriate buffers as necessary to avoid con- flicts with adjacent residences. 217 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 117 LAND.2 Solicit community involvement and volunteerism to assist in targeted park programs. LAND.3 Site planning, operations and practices shall follow all applicable regulations regarding food production and public health safety. LAND.4 Buffers shall be established between residential and park uses. LAND.5 Minimize potential conflicts between recreation and farm uses through the establishment of a Martial Cottle Park Advisory Committee or other system for regular communication between park user groups. 12. Operations, Management, Funding, and Implementation This section provides a goal and guidelines to guide and implement manage- ment and funding decisions for the long-term success of the Park. Goals: Ensure the availability of financial resources over the long-term to estab- lish and continue the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of park facilities and provision of quality visitor services now and for future generations. Pursue a strategic, yet flexible, approach to a phased implementation of the park development that is responsive to funding and partnership op- portunities, operations and management resources, and public recrea- tion/education needs. Provide a management structure that ensures efficient and effective im- plementation of park operations, programs, and facilities. Guidelines: OP.1 Secure parking and other facilities during and after normal visi- tor hours, and make security provisions for evening pro- grammed activities. 218 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 118 OP.2 Add staffing and other management resources commensurate with increased operations and maintenance responsibilities asso- ciated with new park improvements. OP.3 Consider cost-recovery opportunities, consistent with the Do- nor’s Vision and other Master Plan goals that can offset long- term management costs, specifically related to the on-going agri- cultural programs for the park. OP.4 Explore sustainable design strategies that will reduce long-term operation and management costs. OP.5 Prioritize park improvements as part of the County Parks De- partment’s capital improvement program where funding sources are secured to offset programmed expenditures. OP.6 Consider funding partnerships with non-profit and for-profit entities such as concessions, grants, private donations and spon- sorships for the Park that would be consistent with the Park Vi- sion and County Parks and California State Parks’ policies. OP.7 Encourage public-public and public-private partnerships with other agencies and organizations that can assist in funding, im- plementing, managing and maintaining park facilities and pro- grams. OP.8 Consider establishing a Park foundation or an endowment to sustain capital improvement, operation and maintenance costs. OP.9 Consider establishing a Martial Cottle Park Advisory Commit- tee or a Friends of Group that will provide opportunities for community involvement. The group, which would include the Supervisor/Manager for the Park, County Parks staff, volun- teers, agricultural lessee(s), cooperative partners, and neighbors, would discuss and resolve any potential user conflicts, initiate 219 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 119 collaborative projects, and generate innovative strategies for im- proving communications among all parties. OP.10 Consider vehicle and user fees that are affordable to all segments of the population and discourage parking in surrounding neighborhoods. OP.11 Consider multi-objective purposes with partnership opportuni- ties in the development of park facilities and programs (i.e. part- nering with the Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) to develop educational components related to water use and con- servation for various park uses) OP.12 Develop a Park plan phasing program that prioritizes plan pri- orities and identifies the general timing of key park improve- ments and program development based upon Williamson Act Contract Requirements, funding availability for capital im- provements, recreational needs, logical construction sequencing, support from partner agencies and organizations, and operations and maintenance implications. OP.13 Allow for flexibility in phasing of park implementation to re- spond to changing circumstances including both new sources of funding and potential funding shortfalls. OP.14 Provide facilities and access to portions of the Park as soon as feasible in order to expedite public use of the Park, consistent with the Donor’s vision and other goals. OP.15 Consider near-term improvements that are highly visible and generate a sense of progress about the completion of the future park. OP.16 Prioritize key Park improvements as funding is identified for development and long-term maintenance. 220 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 120 OP.17 Incorporate monitoring, review, and updates to this Plan as needed to assess changes in agricultural stewardship and recrea- tional need, and the availability of management resources to en- sure the long-term viability of the Park. OP.18 Establish partnerships with agencies and organizations that bring specific expertise in agriculture, interpretation, education and natural resources program elements to ensure effective park op- erations. OP.19 Manage the Park to meet the shared goals and missions of the County and the State and partner agencies and organizations while meeting the needs of Santa Clara County and statewide residents. OP.20 Allocate management responsibilities so they correspond to and take advantage of partner agencies' resources and areas of exper- tise. OP.21 Ensure an appropriate link between the financial obligations of key partners and their management responsibilities, consistent with County Park and other County policies. OP.22 Continue to encourage beneficial interagency coordination and collaboration throughout the planning process, as well as during implementation and long-term management. OP.23 Seek California State Parks support on external funding and grant opportunities. OP.24 Provide an on-site presence, such as caretaker or site host, to minimize safety and security concerns. 221 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 121 G. Specific Area Management Goals and Guidelines 1. Park and Recreation Zone This section provides guidelines for enhancing the Park setting and the recrea- tional experience of park visitors. ZONE-P.1 Provide recreational facilities and programming that address the needs and interests of a broad spectrum of the public. ZONE-P.2 Enhance the visitor’s appreciation and protection of the Park’s agricultural, natural and cultural resources through interpreta- tion and educational programs. ZONE-P.3 Where appropriate, provide trail connections to State, regional, County, and local trail systems, and linkages to other parks and open space areas. ZONE-P.4 Provide for a diversity of visitor experiences in proximity to the visitor center and main parking area. ZONE-P.5 Establish vegetative screens to buffer Park maintenance and op- erational areas, such as the corporation yard. ZONE-P.6 When available to the County, the Life Estate Area will be planned, developed and integrated into the Park, connecting the Park’s Visitor Center complex and its community-serving uses with the historic core of the Life Estate Area. 2. Leased Agriculture Zone This section provides guidelines for the viability of the agriculture within the park, including support of agricultural operations and associated commercial endeavors. ZONE-A.1 Require each agricultural lease to develop and abide by a farm plan that includes a planting program, manure management 222 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 122 plan, erosion control plan, etc. The planting program should in- clude a detailed inventory of all species to be planted on an indi- vidual plot, time of year, planned location, soil amendments needed, erosion control methods, and amount of water antici- pated to be required. ZONE-A.2 Encourage commercial operations, such produce stands, farmer’s markets, and a farm café within the park’s planned Agricultural Marketing Area. 3. Habitat Enhancement Zone This section provides guidelines for the park areas managed specifically as habitat, including Canoas Creek and the associated seasonal wetland area. ZONE-H.1 Establish and manage a seasonal wetland immediately north of the Canoas Creek channel for wildlife habitat, stormwater man- agement, water quality, and interpretive uses. ZONE-H.2 Incorporate locally native riparian species along the Canoas Creek channel as appropriate to create wildlife habitat, scenic value, and provide preliminary treatment of run-off before it en- ters the channel. ZONE-H.3 Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to enhance the habitat value of Canoas Creek while maintaining the channel’s required hydrologic function. ZONE-H.4 Enhance the habitat of Canoas Creek toward a natural condition while maintaining hydrologic functions and allowing safe pedes- trian access and interpretation to the extent possible. ZONE-H.5 Relocate trails and roads within the Park that contribute to sedimentation of Canoas Creek and the associated riparian area. 223 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 123 4. Cooperative Management Zone This section provides guidelines for cooperative management of park areas including the research areas, the demonstration gardens, the youth agriculture areas, the native plant nursery, the community gardens, and urban forestry areas. ZONE-C.1 Establish viable partnerships with farming and research organi- zations, such as the University of California Cooperative Exten- sion, to develop and operate the park’s cooperative agricultural elements. ZONE-C.2 Implement programs that offer the public the opportunity to experience farming, including demonstration programs and training in sustainable farming practices. The community gar- dens should be developed in partnership with the City of San José. ZONE-C.3 Explore resource and infrastructure sharing for cooperatively managed areas. ZONE-C.4 Maintain historic agriculture as a prominent theme among the cooperatively managed areas. ZONE-C.5 Provide access to the cooperatively managed areas. ZONE-C.6 Maintain a service entry to the Park for deliveries, Park staff, and agricultural workers. H. Visitor Capacity Crowded parks have the potential to be “loved to death.” In other words, visitor over-use can lead to the degradation of natural and cultural resources and reduce the quality of the visitor experience. In order to address the po- tential for overcrowding, California State Park General Plans must assess visi- 224 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 124 tor capacity (also referred to as carrying capacity) issues in compliance with Section 5019.5 of the Public Resources Code. For the purposes of Martial Cottle Park, the term “visitor capacity” refers to the number and type of visi- tors that the Park can accommodate without experiencing degradation to its natural and cultural resources, visitor experiences and management program. At the future buildout of the Park, the seasonal wetland, the Canoas Creek enhancement, agricultural operations, and parking facilities will limit the number of visitors. There are few social constraints other than an expecta- tion of a quality park experience that can be expected to limit visitor capacity at the Park. This section describes the visitor capacity management methodology for the Park and identifies goals, guidelines, and indicators related visitor capacity. 1. Visitor Capacity Management Methodology State Parks defines Visitor Capacity Management as: “A methodology used to determine and maintain the desired resource and social conditions that fulfill the purpose and mission of a park. It includes establishing initial visitor ca- pacities, then monitoring key indicators in order to identify appropriate man- agement actions in response to unacceptable conditions.” In accordance with the methodology described by California State Parks rec- ommended methodology, the following tasks were carried out during the resource inventories, park unit classification and naming, and general plan- ning processes for the Park where possible. Several of the tasks will be com- pleted once the Plan has been implemented, as described below. Identify Existing Opportunities and Constraints. The Final Resources Inventory and the Martial Cottle Park Program Document describe existing resource sensitivities and related opportunities and constraints identified during the planning process. This information is summarized in Chapter 2 of this Plan. 225 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 125 Determine Vision and Desired Conditions. The vision and desired con- ditions for the Park were refined during the planning process based on the Donor’s vision, grant deed stipulations, community input, and analy- sis by the planning team. The Park Vision is described in Section A, above. Identify Issues and Evaluate Alternatives. The development of alterna- tives for the Park constituted a key phase in the planning process. The planning team developed several alternatives for meeting the Park Vision, and solicited input from agencies and community members regarding preferences for site organization and features. A preferred alternative was identified during this process. Additional alternatives may be evaluated during the environmental review of this project. Develop Measurable Indicators and Thresholds. California State Parks recommends that key indicators are identified to diagnose whether the desired conditions for a park are being met. Indicators for the Park are discussed below in Table 4-1. Once the Park has been developed and ad- ditional data is available, thresholds that reflect desired conditions for each indicator should be developed. Establish Initial Visitor Capacities. State Park General Plans typically present the initial capacity of a park’s developed facilities and the meth- odology used to identify desired future conditions and evaluate capacity issues related to the future development and use of the park. Given that the Park is a new park that has not previously allowed for any public ac- cess, existing visitor capacity is not useful for establishing baseline condi- tions nor making conclusions about future carrying capacity. The quan- tification of visitor capacity for the Park will need to be addressed through the use of comparable visitor capacity data from other regional parks such as Ardenwood Historic Farm and Emma Prusch Farm Park, on-going inventory and monitoring programs once the Park is open to the public. Monitor Use and Identify Changing Conditions. Guidelines are pro- vided below for monitoring to determine the degree of impact or chang- 226 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 126 ing conditions that occur over a specified period of time. The indicators identified in this section will be used to determine when an unacceptable condition exists and management action(s) are necessary. Adjust Environmental or Social Conditions. Guidelines are also pro- vided in this section regarding actions to be taken by management in the event that monitoring efforts reveal that environmental or social condi- tions may be approaching or exceeding thresholds. Subsequent management plans and site investigations provide the more de- tailed information necessary for project-level analysis and impact assessments in order to initiate required mitigation and monitoring programs. Prior to site-specific development or development of management plans, areas that could potentially be impacted will be surveyed and reviewed in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). 2. Goals and Guidelines This document provides guidelines for managing the Park’s resources and establishing and maintaining a rich visitor experiences. The following goal and guidelines are specific to establishing, implementing, and maintaining an appropriate visitor capacity. Goal: Establish, implement, and monitor visitor capacity for fulfilling the Park’s vision for agricultural activities, the preservation of the Park’s natural resources, and for the social enjoyment of park visitors. Guidelines: CAPACITY.1 Identify existing capacity opportunities and constraints us- ing surveys and site investigations prior to any site-specific development. Use collected data to establish the baseline condition for natural, cultural, and recreational resources and develop visitor capacity thresholds. 227 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 127 CAPACITY.2 As monitoring efforts reveal environmental or social condi- tions may be approaching or exceeding thresholds, man- agement must consider alternatives and take appropriate ac- tion. Indicators and actions presented in this Plan should be updated as necessary. In addition to the specific guidelines for visitor capacity stated above, many of the guidelines related to specific topics and management zones will contribute to meeting the goal for visitor capacity. These guidelines are listed in Table 4-1, along with desired outcomes and indicators for visitor capacity. 3. Indicators Table 4-1 also lists key indicators for diagnosing whether the desired condi- tions for the Park are being met, and whether management actions are neces- sary to address visitor capacity issues. 228 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN 128 TABLE 4-1 DESIRED OUTCOMES AND INDICATORS FOR VISITOR CAPACITYGuideline Desired Outcome Indicators Potential Management Actions and Monitoring Activities Natural Resources Preserve the existing valley oaks (Quercus lobata). (PLANT 2) Provide monitoring and maintenance to ensure the long-term health and survival of native plant communities. (PLANT 6) Locate visitor services and other high-impact areas away from sensitive wildlife habitat. (WILDLIFE 1) Minimize disturbances to wildlife habitat by restricting public access in sensitive habitat areas, including the creek, riparian and seasonal wetland areas. (WILDLIFE 3) Minimize soil compaction in areas to be utilized for agriculture, open space and habitat. (SOIL 7) Locate all trails outside of the Canoas Creek floodplain. (REC 6) Enhance the habitat of Canoas Creek toward a natural condition while maintaining hydrologic functions and allowing safe pedestrian access and interpretation to the extent possible. (ZONE H 4) Relocate trails and roads that contribute to sedimentation of Canoas Creek and the associated riparian area. (ZONE H 5) Enhanced habitat diversity. Retention of existing valley oaks. Sustainable wetland and riparian habitat. Sustainable wildlife populations. Healthy soil. Sustainable populations of special status species. (+) Occurrence of native wildlife. (+) Presence of suitable wildlife habitat. (+) Presence of wetland and riparian plant species. (-) Disturbance to existing oaks. Conduct periodic field resource surveys. Develop a program for surveying and monitoring the Park’s natural resources. Check for active special status species nest sites and presence of special status plant and wildlife species prior to any improvements. Restrict use in sensitive and open space areas where necessary. Design improvements to visitor access location and use areas. Restrict use in sensitive areas. 229 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN TABLE 4-1 DESIRED OUTCOMES AND INDICATORS (CONTINUED) 129 Guideline Desired Outcome Indicators Potential Management Actions and Monitoring Activities Cultural Resources Preserve agricultural character throughout the Park and among Park elements. (AG 1) Locate recreational, agricultural, interpretive, and other Park program elements to maximize interpretation of historic and other cultural resources. (CULTURE 2) Retention of the integrity and value of cultural resources. Preservation of historic agricultural character. (+) Agricultural fields are protected. (+) Visitors understand cultural significance of the Park. (-) Agricultural character is not visually evident. Develop a program for surveying and monitoring the Park’s cultural resources. Develop interpretive program that reveals the Park’s historic value. Agriculture Provide views of leased farm areas while providing adequate setbacks to allow for efficient farming. (AG 6) Minimize conflicts between agriculture and other adjacent uses by establishing buffers and using fencing as appropriate, and by broadly disseminating information about seasonal agricultural operations. (AG 7) Sustainable commercial farming operations. (+) Farming operations are economically viable. (-) Complaints from farmers, visitors, or neighbors. Develop a program for monitoring agricultural productivity and economic viability. Coordinate with farm lessor(s). Recreation and Access Provide for a range of day-use, passive recreation and educational opportunities that complement the Donor’s vision of a historic agricultural park and are consistent with the property’s deed restrictions. (Recreation Goal) Provide facilities that will invite and facilitate the public use of the park, A variety of recreational experiences that enhances appreciation of the Park’s natural, cultural and agricultural resources. (+) Presence of returning park visitors. (+) Diversity in park visitation demographics. Staff observations of recreation activity during day-to-day operations. Conduct periodic visitor use and satisfaction surveys. 230 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL PARK PLAN TABLE 4-1 DESIRED OUTCOMES AND INDICATORS (CONTINUED) 130 Guideline Desired Outcome Indicators Potential Management Actions and Monitoring Activities such as picnic facilities, meadows, multi-use trails, restrooms, water fountains, and benches. (REC 2) Secure parking and other facilities during and after normal visitor hours, and make security provisions for evening programmed activities. (OP-1) Provide adequate parking to minimize the potential for parking impacts on adjacent residential neighborhoods. (CIRC 3) Develop strategies for facilitating travel to and from the Park via alternative, non-automobile modes, such as bus, light rail, Caltrain, bicycle, and walking. (CIRC 5) High quality visitor experience. Minimal conflicts between park uses. Minimal traffic congestion. Safe non-vehicular travel in and out of the Park and throughout the Park. Minimal parking and circulation issues in surrounding neighborhood. (+) Diverse passive recreation and agricultural activities throughout the Park. (-) Conflict amongst recreational and agricultural park uses. (-) Crowding of recreational facilities. Develop a program for monitoring parking capacity. Evaluate new recreation opportunities, trends and activities for consistency with deed restrictions. Respond to changing recreation trends and/or changing demographics. 231 131 5 IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. – Robert Louis Stevenson This chapter describes potential partners that may contribute to Martial Cot- tle Park’s (the Park) development and operations, financial implications of implementing the plan, a phasing strategy, next steps and subsequent plan- ning that will take place during and after the implementation of this plan. A. Potential Partners There are several community groups, nonprofit organizations, and agencies that may assist in park operations, maintenance, education and interpretation at the Park. This section is intended to identify key partnerships that were recognized during the planning process, and is not intended to provide an extensive list of potential partners. Potential partnerships are described below as either agency, non-profit organization or community-group partnerships. The partners discussed in this section have the capacity to either assist in Park development, operations or to operate programs within the park that are con- sistent with the Park goals (Table 5-1). 1. Agencies City of San Jose. The City of San Jose Park, Recreation and Neighbor- hood Services Department operates several successful community gardens for its residents across the City, and has expressed interest in developing and operating the community gardens component of the Park. The City will also be a key partner in developing its citywide trail system to sup- port park visitation and reduce vehicular traffic. Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD). Enhancements to the exist- ing Canoas Creek channel, the establishment of a seasonal wetland, and developing access from the Blossom Hill light rail station are key 232 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 132 TABLE 5-1 POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND AREAS OF CONTRIBUTION County Parks State Parks City of San Jose SCVWD Concessionaire UCCE Urban Forestry Program Lessee Community and Neighborhood Organizations Roads and Trails X X X X Park Areas X X X Visitor Facilities X X X Seasonal Wetland X X Community Gardens X X Youth Agriculture X Demonstration Gardens X Ag Research X Production Agriculture X Ag Marketing X X Native Plant Nursery X X Urban Forestry X X X Other Support X X objectives of the General Plan/Master Plan (Plan). Meeting these objec- tives will require close coordination with SCVWD. SCVWD will need to approve plans for these areas, and in addition may be able to provide resources and other resources to implement enhancements. Improve- 233 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 133 ments should benefit flood control efforts, habitat and recreational op- portunities. SCVWD may also contribute to the establishment and/or operations of a native plant nursery that will benefit habitat enhancement programs throughout the region. 2. Non-Profit Organizations There are numerous non-profit organizations that may contribute to the Park during the future. The organizations listed below represent potential partners that are anticipated to play a key role in meeting Park goals. Youth Agricultural Programs. Several programs which are operated through University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) are well established in the region and are harmonious with the vision for Martial Cottle Park. UCCE has expressed interest in operating a 4-H program which would provide opportunities for youth agriculture, a Master Gardener program which would establish demonstration gardens, an agricultural research program, and a nutrition program. Urban Forestry Programs. An urban forestry program, such as the pro- grams operated by Our City Forest, could add to the opportunities pro- vided at the Park. Urban forestry programs may provide materials and volunteer hours to contribute to establishing and maintaining trees at Martial Cottle Park, and are could complement UCCE activities. Local Food Programs. There are numerous organizations in the Bay Area with the mission of promoting local and regional food systems. These organizations, which may assist in the development of agricultural marketing and education programs at the Park, include Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association; the California Farmers’ Market Associa- tion, local Slow Food chapters; the Bay Area Buy Fresh, Buy Local Cam- paign; Healthy Farms Healthy Schools Campaign; and the Healthy Sili- con Valley and Farm to School (F2S) Programs. 234 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 134 3. Community Groups and Volunteers The numerous community groups within proximity of the Park have the potential to foster volunteer programs and park stewardship. Both County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department (County Parks) and California State Parks have active volunteers programs. These involve many aspects of park management including adopting park and trail maintenance activities, providing docents for recreation and educational programs, assisting during special events, and park monitoring. Volunteers that reside adjacent to the Park can also help create a safe environment by keeping an eye on park activi- ties during and after Park hours. While individual volunteers can make sub- stantial contributions to the park, community groups that are already organ- ized have the potential to contribute more volunteer hours, commit to long- term projects (such as adopting a section of the trail to maintain), and typi- cally require less coordination from County Parks staff. Groups that were identified during the planning process include the VEP Community Associa- tion, the Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association, Colony Green Home- owner Association, and local Girl and Boy Scout groups. Local schools, such as Park View Elementary, Hayes Elementary and Gunderson High School may also be interested in becoming stewards of the Park or forming other mutually beneficial relationships. Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and other youth service groups may also become involved in volunteer activities at the Park. B. Financial Considerations This section provides an overview of projected capital improvement costs, annual operations and management costs and potential revenue generated by the implementation of the Plan. The figures presented in this section repre- sent costs to the County, and do not consider costs accrued by cooperative partners. Table 5-2 summarizes the financial analysis conducted for the Park, 235 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 135 TABLE 5-2 FINANCIAL ANALYSIS SUMMARY Category Projected Costs/ Revenues at Buildout Capital Improvements $61,587,000 to $82,116,800 Projected Annual Revenue $830,500 Projected Annual Operations Costs $4,603,374 Net Park Revenues ($3,772,874) Percent Cost Recovery 23% which projected that the annual net cost for operating the Park at $3,772,874 in 2009-2010 dollars. 1. Existing Funding Existing funding for Phase 1 capital improvements includes $20,000,000 that has been set-aside by County Parks from the Park Charter Fund, $300,000 earmarked by the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority and $250,000 of approved FY2010 federal funding from the Transportation, Housing and Ur- ban Development Appropriations (California 15th Congressional District). 2. Additional Funding In order to fully implement the Park, additional funding opportunities will need to be identified and secured. This would include grants for capital pro- jects, Park programs, ongoing evaluation of user frees, and short and long- term lease revenues. 3. Capital Improvement Costs Capital improvement costs for the development of the Park consistent with the goals and guidelines of the Plan are estimated at $61,587,000 to $82,116,800, as summarized in Table 5-3. 236 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 136 4. Annual Operating and Management Costs County Parks will be responsible for operating and maintaining the Park. However, it is anticipated that cooperative partners will operate and maintain facilities for youth agriculture, agricultural research, demonstration programs, urban forestry programs, native plant nursery, and community gardens. Pro- duction agriculture will require a certain level of County coordination, but will also be managed by a cooperative partner/lessee. The size and intensity of uses within the developed Park will require ap- proximately an estimated range of 16 to 18 full-time-equivalent staff to be dedicated to the Park once the Park is fully built and all programs are operat- ing. Staffing resources may be shared with other County parks with similar programs (e.g. Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch site at Santa Teresa County Park). The estimated annual operating budget associated with providing staffing, services and supplies for the fully built Park would be between $4,143,000 and $5,524,100 million (2009-10 dollars), as shown in Table 5-4. This cost, and the number of staff required to operate the Park, will be lower until the Park is fully operational. During Phase I, an approximate range of $1.4 to $1.5 mil- lion would be needed to sustain the initial park operational budget, including staffing, supplies, services and equipment costs. 5. Potential Revenue Some of the program elements for the Park could generate revenue stream to contribute to the Park’s operating budget. While the potential revenue is not expected to support the entire Park, it does have the potential to alleviate the financial burden on the County. According to the assumptions shown in Table 5-5, $830,500(2009-10 dollars) would potentially be generated on an annual basis. 237 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 137 TABLE 5-3 PROJECTED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COSTS Elements Low High Parks and Recreation Zone: Access Vehicular – Main Entry (Signal Light, Gate, Signage, Curb Cut) 1,350,000 1,800,000 Paved Public Road (From entrance to Western Use Area)* 320,000 426,700 Vehicle Parking- Developed 588,100 784,100 Vehicular Parking- Overflow 294,000 392,100 Emergency/Service Vehicle Access Points (Gate, Signage, Curb Cut) 27,000 36,000 Unpaved Internal Service Roads 485,000 646,700 Neighborhood Access points (Signage, Gate, Curb Cut) 36,000 48,000 Pedestrian Bridge From VTA Station 90,000 120,000 Pedestrian Tunnel at Blossom Hill Road Connection 67,500 90,000 Subtotal: Access 3,257,600 4,343,600 Parks and Recreation Zone: Recreation Developed Open Space 3,983,100 5,310,900 Perimeter Buffer 7,092,000 9,456,000 Unpaved Pedestrian-Only Trails (5 Feet ) 138,700 185,000 Unpaved Multiple Use Trails (12 Feet) 1,669,600 2,226,100 Sidewalk (12 Feet with tree wells, curbs and gutters) 716,600 955,500 Par Course 36,000 48,000 Picnic Areas 2,070,000 2,760,000 Utility Connections (For Sewer, Water, Electric and Gas For Park And Visitor Services) 180,000 240,000 Irrigation infrastructure 2,743,200 3,657,600 Fencing (Includes All Non-Agricultural Fencing) 961,100 1,281,500 238 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN TABLE 5-3 PROJECTED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COSTS (CONTINUED) 138 Elements Low High Subtotal: Recreation 19,590,300 26,120,600 Parks and Recreation Zone: Visitor Services/Community/Education Interpretive Signage and Elements 45,000 60,000 Visitor Center Complex (Interpretive Center, Ranger Facilities, Offices, Classrooms, Restrooms, Multi-Use Hall) 5,265,000 7,020,000 Outdoor/Multi-Use Pavilion 2,349,000 3,132,000 Park Restrooms (Separate Buildings) 432,000 576,000 Entry Kiosk 67,500 90,000 Subtotal: Visitor/Community/Education 8,158,500 10,878,000 Parks and Recreation Zone: Operations Caretaker Residence 324,000 432,000 Park Corp Yard – Site Development 21,300 28,500 Park Corp Yard – Building 540,000 720,000 Security Fencing-Corp Yard and Caretaker Residence 27,000 36,000 Subtotal: Operations 912,300 1,216,500 Leased Agriculture Zone Assess Condition of Well Located on State Parks Property and Make Repairs 4,500 6,000 Upgrade Well Located on State Parks Property 18,000 24,000 Soil Restoration/Enhancement (Production Ag) 252,900 337,200 Irrigation Infrastructure and Drainage 900,000 1,200,000 Security Fencing- Agricultural fields 1,417,500 1,890,000 Corp Yard – Barn, Equipment Storage (Buildings Only) 1,080,000 1,440,000 Corp Yard – Security Fencing 27,000 36,000 239 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN TABLE 5-3 PROJECTED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COSTS (CONTINUED) 139 Elements Low High Buildings for Ag Marketing: Kitchen, Processing, Office and Café 2,160,000 2,880,000 Produce Stand (Building) 337,500 450,000 Gravel Parking Area for Ag. Marketing and Other Buildings 29,400 39,300 Mobile Carts 6,800 9,000 Subtotal: Agriculture 6,233,600 8,311,500 Cooperative Management Zone Utility Connections for Water and Electricity 36,000 48,000 Youth Ag, Demonstration Gardens, Research and Urban Forestry Security Fencing 413,100 550,800 Community Gardens Security Fencing 80,500 107,400 Community Gardens Site Development 450,000 600,000 Native Plant Nursery 7,840,800 10,454,400 Subtotal: Cooperative Partners 8,820,400 11,760,600 Habitat Enhancement Zone Noxious Weed Control 4,500 6,000 Water Feature- Wetland 765,000 1,020,000 Canoas Creek – Connection to Seasonal Wetland 76,500 102,000 Canoas Creek – Revegetation 675,000 900,000 Subtotal: Habitat Enhancement 1,521,000 2,028,000 Subtotal $48,493,700 $64,658,800 Contingency (20%) 9,394,500 $12,931,800 Soft Costs (35%) 3,288,100 $4,526,200 Total $61,176,300 $82,116,800 * This cost estimate reflects buildout conditions and paving of the entire length of this road. 240 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 140 TABLE 5-4 PROJECTED ANNUAL OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT COSTS Positions/Category Number of Positions (FTE) Annual Cost Park Unit Park Unit Supervisor/Manager (TBD) 1 $149,427 Operations Senior Park Ranger 1 $123,455 Park Ranger 4-5 $437,434- $546,973 Park Service Attendant (PSA) 2 $117,172 Maintenance Senior Park Maintenance Worker 1 $106,833 Park Maintenance Worker 4 $366,563 Programs Office Specialist/Receptionist 1 $78,541 Park Interpreter 1-2 $105,367- $210,733 Natural Resource Management Tech. 1 $102,390 Seasonal Help $185,883 Services and Supplies $142,185 Annual Set-Aside for Park Operations $2,463,500 Total $4,603,374 241 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 141 TABLE 5-5 POTENTIAL ANNUAL REVENUE Revenue Sources Units Quantity Cost/ Unit* Revenue Large Group Picnic Areas Rental Days 730 $240 $175,200 Production Agriculture Leases Acres 140 $400 $56,000 Mobile Cart- License Fee Carts 3 $500 $1,500 Produce Stand Stalls 20 $5,000 $100,000 Café Sq.Ft. 2,000 $24 $48,000 Visitor Center – Gift Store Sq.Ft. 300 $25 $7,500 Medium Events – Private Events/Year 52 $485 $25,200 Medium Events – Public Events/Year 2 $750 $1,500 Large Festivals Events/Year 2 $1,500 $3,000 Vehicle parking Parking lot entrants 97,000 $6 $582,000 Total Estimated Annual Revenue Generation $830,500 * Based on FY 2009-10 Fee Schedule approved by County Board of Supervi- sors. The following assumptions were utilized to develop the revenue generation projections for the Park: Picnic Areas. Estimates assume five rentable small group picnic sites (50 person capacity, two medium group sites (100 person capacity) and one large group site (300 person capacity); that the Park is open 365 days per year, although peak usage/rentals would be between April 1st and Octo- ber 15th; and that potential rentable sites are available for year-round res- ervations where picnic sites could be occupied 40 percent of the time. 242 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 142 Production Agriculture-Leases. Leases are estimated at $400 per acre based on discussions with area farmers.1 Mobile Cart. This would be negotiated, but a typical arrangement is for a mobile cart operator to pay a concessionaire fee to operate in a location. Here, the annual fee is assumed to be $500. Produce Stand. Assumes that facilities are buildout and that rent is equivalent to 6 percent of the gross sales, estimated at $300,000. In actual- ity, rent may include a base fee in addition to a small percentage of sales. Farmers Market. The Farmers Market is anticipated to be revenue neu- tral. Revenue gained through stall rental fees would be utilized to oper- ate the market. Café. Assumes a lease rate of $2.00 per building square foot per month or $24.00 per square foot per year can be achieved. Visitor Center- Gift Store. Assumes approximately $25 per building square foot per year in sales is achieved. Medium Events- Private. Assumes 100 events per year and a fee of $485 per event based on County's fee schedule for facility rentals. There may be additional fees collected with use of reserved group picnic sites during special events that are not included as part of the potential revenue. Medium Events- Public. Assumes County’s facility event fee schedule's fee of $750 for events with 500 people or more and two medium pubic events per year. There may be additional revenues associated with pre- paid vehicular parking for the special event, additional staffing fees to ad- dress park security, and certain percentage of anticipated revenues from vendors and ticket sales for the event. 1 Discussions were held at DCE's offices in 2008. The Donor’s representa- tive also provided input on potential lease rates. 243 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 143 Large Festivals. Assumes that the County's facility event fee schedule's maximum fee of $750 for events with 500 is doubled for large festivals, and assumes two large festivals per year. Vehicle Parking. Assumes $6 per car parking fee and 97,000 vehicles per year. These assumptions are consistent with the County’s 2009 parking fee rates and with traffic studies conducted during the planning process. a. Net Operating Costs and Cost Recovery The net annual operating cost for the Park is estimated at $3,772,874. As dis- cussed above, this figure does not include operating costs for the Cooperative Management Zone, since cooperative partners will be responsible for this cost. This estimate is based on projected annual management costs and an- nual revenue. Due to the high level of variability between estimated cost and actual cost, this estimate is intended for planning purposes only. The cost recovery ratio, or the percentage of the annual operating budget that could potentially be funded by Park revenues, is estimated at approximately 23 percent. The cost recovery ratio of Martial Cottle Park is anticipated to differ from that of other County parks due to the range of revenue-generating features proposed for Martial Cottle Park. C. Phasing The phasing program recommended for the Park offers a strategic approach to implementation of the park development that is responsive to the availabil- ity of funding and other resources, partnership opportunities, program needs and Williamson Act contract requirements. The Plan should be implemented in two phases. The first phase, which ex- tends from 2011 to 2019, would take place during the Williamson Act con- tract non-renewal period and therefore must comply with contract require- ments. As discussed in Chapter 1, the Williamson Act program is an agricul- 244 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 144 tural land protection program that discourages the conversion of agricultural land to urban uses. Each of the parcels that comprise Martial Cottle Park is currently under Williamson Act contracts, although non-renewal periods have been initiated for each parcel and all of the contracts will expire by 2019. Until the contracts expire, all park development must meet the following requirements of the County’s Williamson Act Program guidelines (see also Chapter 3): Assuming the land is planted with standard-value crops, 60 percent of each parcel under contract is devoted to commercial agricultural produc- tion. If the land is planted in high-value crops, only 50 percent of the land must be in production. No more than 10 percent (not to exceed 5 acres) of the parcel is devel- oped with compatible uses such as barns and paved roads. 1. Phase 1 The first phase of the plan, which would extend until 2019 when the William- son Act Contract expires, would focus on establishing basic infrastructure and facilities to enable farming operations to be initiated as well as necessary im- provements to allow for public access and limited recreational activities. The following objectives should guide Phase 1 of Park development. Parkwide Circulation and Access Design and construct the main Park entrance, including entry sign, land- scaping, entry kiosk, paved entry road, and the primary public parking area. Establish at least one service/emergency entrance and develop unpaved service roads. Signage, gates, and fencing should be included. Design and construct multi-use trails and non-vehicular access points, in- cluding buffer landscaping pedestrian gates, dog courtesy stations, and other support facilities. 245 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 145 Parkwide Utilities Design and construct a water, electricity and gas infrastructure that in- cludes meters and that allows for flexibility in park leasing. Design and construct an underground electrical supply system that in- cludes meters and that allows for flexibility in park leasing. Park and Recreation Areas Establish utility connections that will be necessary to support Park uses. Design and construct the visitor center complex, including gathering spaces, meeting rooms, staff offices and restrooms. Develop approximately five acres of developed open space in proximity to the visitor center. This area should provide opportunities for passive recreation, including picnicking. Develop a corporation yard and potential onsite caretaker residence to support Park activities. The corporation yard should include security fencing, security lighting, and temporary mobile trailer. Establish buffer areas in association with multi-use trails and initiate land- scape improvements to these areas. Develop an interpretive program and signage program for the Park. Provide limited interpretive elements, such as panels, displays and pro- grams. Provide signage to orient Park visitors, including informational and di- rectional signage, regulatory signage, and Park maps. Develop adequate restrooms to accommodate level of use. Leased Agriculture Areas Address the repair, maintenance and upgrade of the well located on State Parks property in order that the well may be utilized irrigation of agri- cultural areas. 246 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 146 Develop and release Request for Proposals from farmers/lessees. Establish management structure for agricultural operations. Initiate soil improvement/preparation activities. Establish basic infrastructure for irrigation, water, sewer, electricity and other utilities. Develop an agricultural corporation yard. Provide security fencing around areas to be farmed. Cooperative Management Areas Establish relationships with cooperative partners, including the City of San Jose, UCCE, SCVWD, CNPS, and other nongovernmental organiza- tions. Designate areas for agricultural research, youth agriculture, demonstra- tion gardens, and urban forestry. Provide utility connections, gates, fencing and other basic infrastructure to enable cooperative partners to occupy designated areas. 2. Design Development for Phase I and Continued Public Input As part of the implementation of Phase 1, it will be necessary to complete design development and construction documents. Design development will need to include coordination with park staff, stakeholders and members of the public. It is expected that an advisory committee or similar group will be formed and will provide input and review of proposed elements. In addition, design development and programming will include additional public input and public meetings. The County’s Parks and Recreation Commission and Board of Supervisors will also provide input on design and programs, provid- ing additional opportunities for public involvement. 3. Subsequent Phases Subsequent development phases will be necessary to complete park compo- nents that were initiated in Phase 1, such as interpretive programming and 247 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 147 recreational open space, and to develop other components of the Plan that have not yet been initiated, such as the seasonal wetland area, native plant nursery, multi-use outdoor pavilion and other elements. Habitat Enhancement Areas Retain enough undeveloped land to accommodate potential future vege- tative enhancements to the Canoas Creek channel and a seasonal wetland feature. Initiate coordination with the SCVWD to identify opportunities and constraints for enhancing the Canoas Creek channel and providing trail access along it. Native Plant Nursery Retain enough undeveloped land to accommodate potential future native plant nursery. Initiate coordination with the SCVWD, local native plant societies and others to identify opportunities and constraints for developing a native plant nursery. Multi-Use Outdoor Pavilion Select optimal location for multi-use pavilion. Design and construct multi-use pavilion to accommodate County Parks Department needs, user groups and the public. Agricultural Marketing Establish agricultural marketing area and farmer’s market for the sale of Park-grown and locally-grown produce. Develop a Park Café that sells Park-grown and locally-grown food. 248 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 148 D. Future Planning This Plan will guide the long-term development and operations of the Park. However, additional planning will be necessary in order to address future conditions. The incorporation of the Life Estate Area into the Park under the County’s ownership is a known future condition that will require the County to undertake additional planning and an update or amendment of the County’s Master Plan portion of the Plan, where California State Parks would be kept apprised of the planning work. It is envisioned that the County’s future planning efforts may involve development of a site plan and/or interpretive plan that will describe the future historic and interpretive uses within the Life Estate Area, and that a General Plan Update or Amend- ment is not anticipated if these future uses are consistent with the vision, goals, and guidelines contained in this Plan. Future planning efforts may ex- pand upon the information put forward in this plan, and all efforts should also be consistent with the vision, goals, and guidelines described in this Plan. As with Phase 1 improvements, design development for future phases at Mar- tial Cottle Park will include opportunities for public input through commu- nity workshops, Advisory Committee meetings, and during reviews by the County Parks and Recreation Commission and County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors. E. Subsequent Environmental Review The Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Plan is being completed at the “Program Level”, with the addition of project-level analysis of Phase 1 improvements, which are evaluated in greater detail. Detailed “project-level” analysis for subsequent development phases will be completed as future phases are planned and designed. 249 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 149 F. Periodic Plan Review and Updating This plan was developed based on an understanding of current environ- mental, economic and financial conditions, as well as assumptions regarding recreational and population trend. The Plan is intended to reflect a long-term vision and framework for the park development, but should be reviewed and updated on a 5- to 10-year basis to ensure that is remains consistent with the original intent, and to ensure that planning reflects current understanding of existing conditions. The review and update process can provide additional opportunities for staff, stakeholders and the public to provide input. 250 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 150 251 151 6 DESIGN GUIDELINES Design is an opportunity to continue telling the story, not just to sum everything up. – Tate Linden In order to manifest the Martial Cottle Park (Park) vision, site features should contribute to the agricultural character whenever possible. This section is intended to provide guidance for the design and construction of specific park components, while allowing for flexibility and innovative design solutions. A. Entrances and Gates As per the Circulation Plan for the Park (see Figure 4-2), there are three types of entrances for the Park, including a singular public vehicular entrance, ser- vice and emergency vehicle entrances, and non-vehicular public entrances. The main public vehicular entrance should reflect the Park’s historic agricul- tural theme, and serve as a visible invitation for Park visitors. Any building materials used to create landmark features at the entrance should be natural materials, such as wood or stone, and be either earth tone or white. Land- scaping at the entrance should have a strong agricultural character. Any overhead features included at this entrance must allow sufficient clearance for fire and emergency vehicles, buses, and farm equipment. Adequate distance should be provided between the entrance and the entry kiosk to allow for a minimum of five cars to stack. A turn-around lane should be provided im- mediately after the kiosk. Service and emergency vehicular entrances should also contribute to the Park’s agricultural theme, yet should blend with the surrounding landscape and take on the character of a rural property entrance. Removable and/or collapsible bollards or gates with lock boxes should be provided at each ser- vice and emergency vehicular entrance. Bollards and gates should be made of Movable bollards in road restrict vehicular access 252 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES 152 metal or wood and, if painted, should be painted in earth tone or neutral col- ors. Non-vehicular entrances should be visible from surrounding streets and should have removable and/or collapsible bollards. These bollards would allow access for bicyclists and should be included at all non-vehicular en- trances. The character of each entrance should be consistent with the Park’s agricultural theme, and consistent for all entrances. B. Architecture All structures built on-site, and especially structures within the public areas, should utilize an architectural style that is consistent with the historic build- ings in the Life Estate Area and barns and farmhouses in Santa Clara Valley. In addition, building design should employ sustainable, green design and tech- nologies such as natural lighting and passive heating and cooling. Buildings that will be used by the public should be designed to highlight the Park’s history and maximize views to agricultural fields and distant moun- tains. Structures that will be used for agricultural or park operations, such as greenhouses and storage buildings, should be designed to complement the historic character of the property and use materials that blend with the land- scape backdrop in order that visual impacts be minimized. C. Fencing All fencing should be consistent with the Park’s historic agricultural charac- ter. The two main categories of fences that will be required for the Park are security fences and low barriers. Low barriers may also include hedgerows as a substitute to constructed fences. Both types of fences may be coupled with vegetative buffers that support integrative pest management and that create aesthetically pleasing and high-functioning barriers. Gathering shelter Split-rail fence in front of deer wire fence Wooden barn 253 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT DESIGN GUIDELINES 153 Security fences will be necessary to protect the Park’s significant resources, particularly agricultural crops which will be grown on-site, and hazardous areas like corporation yards. These fences should be approximately 8 to 10 feet tall. Fencing around agricultural areas should be transparent to allow for continuous views throughout the Park. The use of chainlink fence should be limited to facilities and areas that are not typically visible to the public. Low barrier fencing should be used to separate different land uses. Fencing types appropriate for low barriers includes grape-stake fencing, split rail fenc- ing, and corral fencing with barbless wire. All fence posts should be wooden or composed of recycled materials that are wooden in appearance. Low bar- rier fencing shall be approximately 42 inches tall. D. Roads As per the Circulation Plan for the Park (see Figure 4-2), there are two major types of road at the Park, including primary vehicular roads (e.g. public access roads) and secondary roads such as service and emergency vehicle roads. All roads should be designed to be as narrow as possible while accommodating anticipated use and meeting safety standards. Roads should be designed to accommodate intended uses such as park visitor vehicles, school buses, fire trucks, farm vehicles, and other service vehicles. All roads that will provide emergency access or are located near buildings should meet Santa Clara County Fire Marshal Office’s standard requirements. In compliance with these standards, roadways should be at least 20 feet wide with inside turning radii of at least 42 feet. These roads should be designed for all weather and to support fire apparatus loads of at least 65,000 pounds. Appropriate surfaces for all weather roads include pavement, oil and screen, pavers and open-grid pavement systems like grasscrete. Wood and wire barrier fencing Grape vines along wood barrier fence Unpaved agricultural road 254 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES 154 The primary public access road leading to the main Park visitor complex will receive heavy use and should have asphalt paving and 5-foot wide shoulders where possible. Secondary roads may remain unpaved, depending on level of use, but at a minimum should have compacted base materials to address long-term durabil- ity and maintenance. Service roads that will not be used for emergency access may be designed for one-lane with frequent pull-offs to allow passing in areas of low use and turning areas or cul-de-sacs as necessary. E. Parking Areas All parking areas should be designed for efficient circulation and to maximize permeable surfaces and shade. The surface for parking areas should be com- patible with anticipated use. Parking areas that receive heavy and regular use should be paved with asphalt or porous paving systems such as open grid pav- ing systems and permeable asphalt. For parking areas that experience lighter use, unpaved surfaces with road base material may be appropriate. Overflow parking areas should be unpaved or planted with low growing grasses that can meet guidelines and non-point source pollution control measures adopted by the County. Parking areas should all be designed to comply with the October 2009 Cali- fornia Regional Water Quality Control Board San Francisco Bay Region Mu- nicipal Regional Stormwater NPDES Permit (C.3 requirements). C.3 re- quirements promote on-site stormwater treatment and detention and empha- size infiltration, water harvesting and re-use. In addition to utilizing perme- able surfaces that allow for infiltration, the use of swales and other stormwa- ter features should be explored for all parking areas. Swales should have flat bottoms at least 18-inches wide, utilize rock cobble at points of concentrated Parking lot with groves, grape vines and grassy swales Olive trees growing in parking lot Unpaved parking area 255 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT DESIGN GUIDELINES 155 flow, and be vegetated with native plants where possible. Swales should not be planted with turf. Since parking areas serve as staging areas for Park activities, drinking foun- tains, trash and recycling receptacles, dog courtesy stations, restrooms, bike racks, benches and shade structures or shade trees should be included as ap- propriate. Design studies for all parking areas should explore the possibility of including trees planted to replicate an orchard, as well as swales and other stormwater management features. Bicycle parking should be provided at all major facilities within the Park and Recreation Zone, at key entrance points, and in all parking areas. Bicycle racks should be galvanized steel U- racks, looped-racks, or racks with similar design, with metal or painted finish. If paint is necessary, racks should be painted with neutral tones. Grid-style bike racks should not utilized at the Park. F. Trails and Buffers Park trails will include the multi-use perimeter and interior trails as well as pedestrian-only park trails. All trails should be designed to be consistent with Countywide Trails Master Plan Update (1995), the Uniform Interjurisdic- tional Trail Use, Design and Management Guidelines (1999), and the Ameri- cans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for whole access trails. In addi- tion, rest stops with benches should be strategically located along all trails to emphasize scenic views, encourage a diversity of experiences, and provide shade and other pedestrian comforts. With the exception of trails that are within designated Park and Recreation Zone, all trails should be designed as component of a buffer area between dif- ferent land uses. Buffer areas should be designed to screen foreground views while maintaining background scenic views, such as those of agricultural land Multiple-loop bicycle rack at San Jose State University 256 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES 156 and surrounding mountains. This can be accomplished through the use of low berms or shrubs. The establishment of stormwater swales is also appro- priate within buffers. The width of a buffer should be adequate to minimize potential conflicts between surrounding land uses. Canopy trees are also ap- propriate along buffers, but should be sited and maintained with considera- tion to existing views. Specific planting recommendations for buffer areas are provided below in Section G. Specific guidelines for park trails and associated buffers are described below and in shown in Figure 6-1. Unpaved Multi-Use Trails and Buffers. Multi-use trails should be de- signed according to the Board-adopted County guidelines for shared-use trails with decomposed granite or other natural tread, and should ac- commodate pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians. When adjacent to residential uses, buffers should be up to 75 feet wide with trails 40-60 feet from the Park boundary. When adjacent to agricultural uses or existing streets, buffer width should vary as appropriate to reduce the potential for conflicts between different land uses. Planting within the buffer zone should provide visual screening between residential and park uses, while retaining residential views of background agricultural uses and moun- tains. Bicycle parking should be provided at major destinations, key in- tersections between multi-use trails and pedestrian trails, and at pedes- trian entrances where appropriate. Unpaved Pedestrian-Only Trails. Pedestrian trails are intended for rec- reational use with the Park’s open space areas. These trails should be de- signed according to the Board-adopted County guidelines for single-use trails with natural tread. Single use trails will not require buffers. Trail monitoring and maintenance guidelines from the Santa Clara County Countywide Trails Master Plan Update should be implemented for all Park trails. 257 TYPICAL WESTSIDE RESIDENTIAL TRAIL AND BUFFER FARM SERVICE ROAD VEGETATED BUFFER UNPAVED MULTI-USE TRAIL VEGETATED BUFFER SIDEWALK FARM RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY VEGETATED BUFFER UNPAVED MULTI-USE TRAIL 8’- 10’ SECURITY FENCE SPLIT-RAIL FENCE 8’- 10’ SECURITY FENCE 8’- 10’ SECURITY FENCE SHOULDER TYPICAL TRAIL AND BUFFER ON BRANHAM LANE AND SNELL AVENUE STREET SERVICE ROAD MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL FIGURE 6-1 PERIMETER MULTIPLE USE TRAILS AND BUFFERS258 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES 158 G. Sidewalks Sidewalks along Branham Lane and Snell Avenue should be separated from the unpaved multi-use trail by an 8- to 13-foot vegetated buffer and low split- rail fence. In accordance with City of San Jose standards, sidewalks should be 12 feet wide to accommodate an 8-foot wide pedestrian path and 4-foot wide area for tree wells. All sidewalks should be designed according to City of San Jose standards. Guidelines for sidewalks and associated buffers are shown in Figure 6-1. H. Planting With the exception of agricultural crops and turf areas, all plantings at the Park should emphasize the use of native, regionally appropriate plants; plants that are significant to the region’s agricultural history, such as walnut trees; plants that are water-efficient; and plants that provide habitat and/or benefit agricultural uses by attracting beneficial insects. Plant choices for the Park should be considerate to the Park’s historic nature. New plantings outside of leased agricultural areas shall include the species identified on Table 6-1 and 6-2, Master Plan Plant Lists. Plants listed may be complemented with additional species as appropriate for the individual area and design goals associated with its use. Due to the proximity of residences to the West Buffer, plantings in this area shall be low growing and shall not in- clude any fire prone species. In addition to planted areas discussed above, it is recommended that hedge- rows be planted along the edges of agricultural plots. Hedgerows are strips or other areas planted with trees, perennials, and annuals that create habitat for agriculturally beneficial insects and pollinators and other wildlife, help to control erosion and weeds, and reduce non-point source water pollution. At Martial Cottle Park, hedgerows should also be designed to be aesthetically pleasing barriers that allow visibility from public areas into agricultural areas. Hedgerow in San Jaun Bautista (Photo by Sam Earnshaw) Low growing hedgerow in San Jaun Bautista (Photo by Sam Earnshaw) 259 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT DESIGN GUIDELINES 159 TABLE 6-1 PRELIMINARY MASTER PLANT LIST – CANOAS CREEK HABITAT ENHANCEMENT* Botanic Name Common Name Seasonal Wetland Riparian Adjacent Upland Trees Alnus rhombifolia White Alder X Aesculus californica Buckeye X Cornus sericea occidentalis Creek Dogwood X Platanus racemosa California Sycamore X Populus fremontii Cottonwood X Quercus agrifolia Coast Live Oak X Quercus chrysolepis Canyon Live Oak X Quercus garryana Oregon White Oak X Quercus lobata Valley Oak X Salix lasiolepis Arroyo Willow X Salix laevigata Red Willow X Shrubs Artemesia californica California Sagebrush X Baccharis pilularis Coyote Brush X Ceanothus thyrsiflorus Blue Blossom X Corylus cornuta californica Western Hazelnut X Heteromeles arbutifolia Toyon X Prunus ilicifolia Hollyleaf Cherry X Rhamnus californica Coffeeberry X Rubus ursinus California Blackberry X X Sambucus mexicanus Blue Elderberry X 260 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES TABLE 6-1 PRELIMINARY MASTER PLANT LIST – CANOAS CREEK HABITAT ENHANCEMENT (CONTINUED)* 160 Botanic Name Common Name Seasonal Wetland Riparian Adjacent Upland Sedges/Rushes/Grasses Carex nudata Torrent Sedge X Carex serrotodens Saw-tooth Sedge X Cyperus eragrostis Tall Flat Sedge X Elymus glaucus Blue Wild Rye X X Festuca californica California Fescue X Festuca rubra Creeping Red Fescue X Juncus balticus Baltic Rush X Leymus triticoides Creeping Wild Rye X X Scirpus acutus Tule, Giant Bulrush X Scirpus californicus California Bulrush X Sisyrinchium idahoense bellum Blue-eyed Grass X * All plants used for the enhancement of Canoas Creek will be watershed specific native plants. Source: 2M Associates; Alicia Yballa. I. Landscape Components Site furnishings should be made of materials such as metal and wood and should have natural or neutral colored finishes. All site furnishing should be consistent with the Park’s historic character, and therefore classic and tradi- tional styles should be selected and modern styles should be avoided. Trash and recyling containers at Arenwood Farm 261 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT DESIGN GUIDELINES 161 TABLE 6-2 PRELIMINARY MASTER PLANT LIST – PARK AND RECREATION ZONES Botanic Name Common Name Entrance Main Park Complex Western Use Area* Perimeter Trail Perimeter Trail – West Buffer Interior Trails Trees Alnus rhombifolia White Alder X X Aesculus californica Buckeye Cornus sericea occidentalis Creek Dogwood X X Platanus racemosa California Sycamore X X Populus fremontii Cottonwood X X X Quercus agrifolia Coast Live Oak X X Quercus chrysolepis Canyon Live Oak X X Quercus douglasii Blue Oak X X Quercus garryana Oregon White Oak X X Quercus lobata Valley Oak X X X X Quercus kelloggii California Black Oak X Quercus wislizenii Interior Live Oak X Corylus avellana ‘Fusco- rubra’ Hazelnut Juglans californica Black Walnut X X X X Pistacia vera ‘Peters’ & ‘Kerman’ Pistachio X X Malus domestica ‘Fuji’ & ‘Liberty’ Apple X Prunus armeniaca ‘Autumn Royal’ & ‘Royalty’ Apricot X 262 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES TABLE 6-2 PRELIMINARY MASTER PLANT LIST – PARK AND RECREATION ZONES (CONTINUED) 162 Botanic Name Common Name Entrance Main Park Complex Western Use Area* Perimeter Trail Perimeter Trail – West Buffer Interior Trails Prunus dulcis ‘Ne Plus Ultra’ & ‘Nonpareil’ Almond X Prunus pursica ‘Champagne’ & ‘Tra-Zee’ Peach X Prunus salicina ‘Shiro’ Plum X Prunus sp. 'Bing' Cherry X Shrubs Artemesia californica California Sagebrush X X Baccharis pilularis Coyote Brush X X Ceanothus arboreus ‘Dark Star’ Wild Lilac X X X X Ceanothus thyrsiflorus Blue Blossom X X X X Cerrcis occidentalis Western Redbud X X X X Eriogonum fasciculatum Buckwheat X Eriogonum giganteum St. Catherine's Lace X Fremontodendron californicum Common Flannel Bush X X Garrya fremontii Fremont Silktassel X X X Heteromeles arbutifolia Toyon X X X X Prunus ilicifolia Hollyleaf Cherry X Rhamnus californica Coffeeberry X X X X Ribes sanguineum Pink Winter Currant X X X X 263 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES TABLE 6-2 PRELIMINARY MASTER PLANT LIST – PARK AND RECREATION ZONES (CONTI 163 Botanic Name Common Name Entrance Main Park Complex Western Use Area* Perimeter Trail Perimeter Trail – West Buffer Interior Trails Ribes speciosum Fuchsia-Flowering Gooseberry X X X X Rubus ursinus California Blackberry X X Grasses/Groundcovers/Perennials/Vines Arctostaphylos uva-ursi ‘Woods Compact’ Bearberry X X X Aster chilensis California Aster X X Baccharis pilularis ‘Twin Peaks’ Prostrate Coyote Brush X X X X Clematis lasiantha Chaparral Clematis X Danthonia californica California Wild Oat Grass X X X X Elymus glaucus Blue Wild Rye X X X X Erigeron karvinskianus Santa Barbara Daisy X X X X Eriophyllum lanatum Wooly Sunflower X Eschscholzia californica California Poppy X X X Festuca californica California Fescue X X X X X Festuca idahoensis Blue Bunch Grass X X X X X Festuca rubra Creeping Red Fescue X X X X Grindelia camporum Gumplant X Mimulus aurantiacus Sticky Monkey Flower X X X X Muhlenbergia rigens Deer Grass X X X X X 264 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES TABLE 6-2 PRELIMINARY MASTER PLANT LIST – PARK AND RECREATION ZONES (CONTINUED) 164 Botanic Name Common Name Entrance Main Park Complex Western Use Area* Perimeter Trail Perimeter Trail – West Buffer Interior Trails Nassella pulchra Purple Needle Grass X X X X Penstemon species Beard Tounge X X X Poa secunda Bluegrass X X X X Romneya coulteri Matilija Poppy X X X Rosa californica California Wild Rose X X Rosa gymnocarpa Wild Rose X X Salvia species Sage X X X X X X Zauschneria californica California Fuschia X X X X * When the species is known to occur within the Guadalupe River watershed, plants of that species used will be water- shed specific native plants. Source: 2M Associates; Alicia Yballa; Sam Earnshaw, Community Alliance with Family Farmers. 265 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES 165 J. Picnic Areas Picnic areas should be sited and grouped to allow flexibility of programming use for different group sizes. Water fountains, bathrooms and receptacles for trash and recycling should be located in close proximity to all group picnic areas. Shelters should be provided at all large group picnic facilities. Area requirements for picnic areas are flexible. K. Signage Signage will be consistent with County Parks’ Interpretive Sign Project Plan- ning Guidelines and the Parks Department’s standards for directional, regula- tory, interpretive and trails signs. All signage should be durable and made of natural materials where possible. Signs with park maps and general park information, such as hours of opera- tion and park regulations, should be posted at all parking lots and at non- vehicular entrances. Wayfinding signs should be provided at key trail inter- sections. Interpretive signage should be provided in proximity to public use areas as well as along perimeter and interior trails. Text and graphics dis- played on interpretive signage should be specific to Martial Cottle Park. 266 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL DESIGN GUIDELINES 166 267 167 7 GLOSSARY This glossary defines terms that are commonly used in the Martial Cottle Park General Plan/Master Plan. Many of the terms defined are related to the Park’s agricultural programming. This glossary is not intended as an exhaus- tive reference for all terminology utilized in the Plan. Agriculture: The production of food and other goods through the farming of crops, poultry and livestock. Bioswale: Landscape drainage feature designed to filter pollutants from runoff and increase stormwater infiltration using a combination of sand bed, pond- ing area, soil, and plants. Bioswales can also enhance local habitat. Buffer: An area or strip of land separating two distinct and/or incompatible land uses or zones, which acts to soften or mitigate the effects of one land use on another. Buffers at Martial Cottle Park are generally landscaped areas and often include recreational trails. Café: A café with associated commercial scale kitchen could provide a range of services including onsite dining, catering services and food-to-go. The com- mercial scale kitchen would serve as a processing facility for value-added farm products. Carbon Sinks: A natural or manmade reservoir that accumulates and stores some carbon. For instance, plants are carbon sinks because they absorb car- bon dioxide from the atmosphere. Climate Change: Changes in the earth’s global temperature over a long pe- riod of time. Global climate change, or global warming, refers to the current warming pattern caused at least in part by human activities. Demonstration Gardens: Educational gardens that are accessible to the pub- lic, although access may be restricted to certain hours, guided tour groups, or other monitored access. These gardens would provide resources for home gardeners and small scale urban farmers. 268 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL GLOSSARY 168 Farmers Market: Regularly occurring events during which on-site and off-site agricultural producers would sell products directly to consumers. Farmers’ markets operate according to county and state regulations. Both the markets and the farmers selling at the markets need to be certified by their county agricultural commissioner. Goal: A general, overall, and ultimate purpose, aim or intent towards which management will direct effort. Goals are not necessarily measurable except in terms of the achievement of component objective that are involved in the attainment of the goal. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Gases that capture heat in the atmosphere, con- tributing to the warming of the earth’s oceans and atmospheres. Carbon di- oxide, methane and nitrous oxide are greenhouse gases that are emitted by human activities. Guideline: A general set of parameters that provide direction for accomplish- ing goals. Hedgerow: Lines or groups of trees, perennial and annual forbs and grassed planted along field edges or other non-crop areas. Hedgerow functions in- clude beneficial insect and pollinator habitat, wildlife habitat, soil erosion and weed control, non-point source water pollution reduction, and air quality and dust control. Life Estate Area: A parcel located southeast of Martial Cottle Park where the Donor currently resides. The Life Estate Area will become part of the County-owned portion of Martial Cottle Park in the future. Native Plant Nursery: A facility that would provide plants for on-site habitat restoration, for use in a native plants demonstration garden, and habitat resto- ration projects in other County parks. Retail sale of nursery stock could be explored. 269 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL GLOSSARY 169 Objective: Objective refers to a specific statement of expected accomplish- ment of desired future condition toward which management will direct ef- forts in the context of striving to achieve a broader goal. Objectives are achievable, and where possible measurable and time specific. Organic Farming Practices: “Organic” is a labeling term that denotes prod- ucts produced under the authority of the Organic Foods Production Act. The principal guidelines for organic production are to use materials and prac- tices that enhance biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity; and that integrates the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole. Produce Stand: A facility equal or similar to the existing stand at the corner of Snell Avenue and Chynoweth Avenue. The produce stand could be ex- panded to include cold storage, packaging and processing. Research: Agricultural research areas provide minimal, if any, public access and focus efforts on the development of small-scale sustainable farming meth- ods and practices that could benefit on-site farmers and others. Sustainable Agriculture: Refers to an agricultural production system that integrates natural biological cycles and controls; protects and renews soil fer- tility and the natural resource base; and minimizes adverse impacts on health, safety, wildlife, water quality and the environment. There are various private certifications for sustainable agriculture but no governmentally-regulated cer- tification. Sustainable Farming Practices: Practices that promote sustainable agricul- ture. See sustainable agriculture, above. Visitor Capacity. (Also referred to as Carrying Capacity). A prescribed number and type of visitors that an area will accommodate given the desired natural/cultural resource conditions, visitor experiences, and management program. State Park General Plans are required to assess visitor capacity. 270 MARTIAL COTTLE STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL GLOSSARY 170 Youth Agriculture: Youth agricultural programs such 4-H and Future Farm- ers of America (FFA) that provide hands-on activities related to agriculture, animal husbandry and science education. Horse activities at Martial Cottle Park would be limited to work horses and animal husbandry programs re- lated to youth agriculture. 271 171 8 REFERENCES A&L Western Agricultural Laboratories and Peter Rudnik. Soil sampling and testing for Martial Cottle Park, July 2008. Balance Hydrologics, Inc. Existing Conditions of Hydrology Draft Report for Martial Cottle Park. October 16, 2009. California State Parks, Revised Draft Planning Handbook, October 2008. California State Parks, Eastshore State Park General Plan, December 2002. County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department. Coyote Creek Park- way County Park Integrated Resources Management Plan and Master Plan, December 2002. County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department. Coyote Lake- Harvey Bear Park Master Plan, May 2003. County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department. Final Draft Martial Cottle Park Program Document, March 2008. County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department. Final Draft Re- sources Inventory, July 2009. County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department. Santa Clara County Regional Park System Strategic Plan. 2003. County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department. Santa Clara County Trails Master Plan Update. 1995. County of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation Department. Uniform Inter- jurisdictional Trail Design, Use, and Management Guidelines, County of Santa Clara. 1995. Sustainable Agriculture and Education (SAGE), Urban Edge Agricultural Parks Toolkit, 2005. 272 MARTIAL COTTLE PARK STATE PARK GENERAL PLAN AND COUNTY PARK MASTER PLAN DRAFT FINAL REFERENCES 172 Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Martial Cottle Park Preliminary Traf- fic Analysis Memorandum, February, 2009. Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Martial Cottle Park Master Plan Transportation Impact Analysis, June, 2009. 273 274 275