HomeMy WebLinkAbout 4 - Open Space-Recreation-Conservation ElementCity of Seal Beach
Open Space /Recreation/
Conservation Element
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Contents
Purpose /Background .................................................................................................................... ..............................1
StatutoryRequirements ................................................................................................................. ..............................2
RelatedPlans and Programs ......................................................................................................... ..............................3
OtherGeneral Plan Elements ............................................................................................. ..............................3
LocalCoastal Program ......................................................................................................... ..............................3
County- of Orange General Plan ......................................................................................... ..............................3
Quimby- Act .............................................................................................................•••.......... ...............................
4
Seal Beach Park Dedication Ordinance ............................................................................. ..............................4
Definitions...................................................................................................................................... ..............................5
CommunityParks ................................................................................................................ ...............................
5
NeighborhoodParks ........................................................................................................... ...............................
5
ViewPark ...............................................................................................................••••............ ..............................5
RegionalBeaches and Parks ................................................................................................ ..............................6
Special Use Parks or Facilities ............................................................................................ ...............................
6
Bikeways................................................................................................................................ ...............................
7
PedestrianTrails .................................................................................................................... ..............................7
Greenbelts and Open Space Corridors ............................................................................. ..............................7
Public /Private Recreational Facilities ................................................................................ ..............................8
NaturalResource Land ....................................................................................................... ...............................
8
Land for the Production of Resources .............................................................................. ..............................8
Issues............................................................................................................................................... .............................11
OpenSpace for Public Safety ............................................................................................ .............................11
Funding.................................................................................................................................. .............................11
Goals, Objectives and Policies .................................................................................................... .............................12
PlanningAreas ............................................................................................................................... .............................13
Planning Area 1 — Old Town /Surfside ............................................................................ ................••...........13
Planning Area 2 — Hellman Ranch /Marina Hill /Boeing .............................................. .............................13
PlanningArea 3 — Leisure World ...................................................................................... .............................14
PlanningArea 4 — College Park ......................................................................................... .............................14
Planning Area 5 - Seal Beach U. S. Naval Weapons Station /Wildlife Refuge ........... .............................17
Conservation................................................................................................................................ ...............................
21
Water.................................................................................................................................... ...............................
21
WaterQuality ........................................................................................................................ .............................22
FloodControl ....................................................................................................................... .............................24
BeachErosion ...................................................................................................................... .............................25
Harbors................................................................................................................................ ...............................
26
WildlifeRefuge ..................................................................................................................... .............................27
Rivers..................................................................................................................................... .............................28
Soils........................................................................................................................................ .............................29
Forests................................................................................................................................... .............................29
Minerals................................................................................................................................. .............................30
CulturalResources ............................................................................................................... .............................30
Wetlands................................................................................................................................ .............................31
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS-1
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
List of Figures
Figure OS -1 - Existing Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Areas .......................................... .............................15
Figure OS -2 - National Wildlife Refuge Area Map .................................................................... .............................19
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -ii
(12/03)
Purpose /Background
The Seal Beach Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
is an expression of the City's goals and policies within these
three topical areas. While it is not necessary for a General Plan
to include a Recreation Element, the close relationship between
open space and recreation lends itself to addressing the City's
goal of providing resources to the community that enhance op-
portunities to experience the natural amenities and qualities of
the area. Because open space, recreation and conservation are all
closely related, it has been determined that these topics should
be considered under a single element. The purpose of this Ele-
ment is to (1) define open space and classify various types of
open space uses, (2) describe those parcels or areas that are cur-
rently being used for open space /recreation and conservation
purposes and discuss in concept future open space needs of the
community, and (3) determine methods to ensure that the pre-
sent and future needs of the community are met.
For purposes of this Element, open pace land shall be defined as
any parcel or area of land or water that is essentially unimproved
or contains only minor improvements and is devoted to an open
space use. Open space use shall be defined as land which is set
aside for (1) outdoor recreation, (2) the preservation of natural
resources, (3) managed production of resources, or (4) the safety
and general welfare of the community. Open space is valued as a
way to buffer neighborhoods from urban intrusions and to pre-
serve areas to maintain a small beach town character.
Recreation land can be categorized as land developed for the use
and enjoyment of the community, either as active land (sports
fields, tot lots, swimming facilities) or passive land (greenbelts,
open space, public beach). Conservation land is land for the
conservation, enhancement, and utilization of natural resources.
The ocean attracts nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. This
topic concerns itself with the management of natural resources
to prevent waste, habitat loss, destruction, or neglect.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -1
(12/03)
Statutory Requirements
California Government Code 565302 requires preparation of a gen-
eral plan which "... shall consist of a statement of development
policies and shall include a diagram or diagrams and text setting
forth objectives, principles, standards and plan proposals."
Government Code §65302(e) requires that an open space element
be included to ensure that open space plans are implemented by
cities and counties to create a permanent network of open
space. Section 65302(d) states, in part: "A conservation element
for the conservation, development, and utilization of natural re-
sources, including water and its hydraulic force, forests, soils,
rivers and other waters, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, minerals and
other natural resources" is required. The law also requires that
"Every local open space plan shall contain an action program
consisting of specific programs which the legislative body in-
tends to pursue in implementing its open space plan." (Gov.
Code §65564)
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -2
(12/03)
Related Plans and Programs
A number of programs, plans, and policies are created by state,
county and local action to promote and protect the resources
included in open space /recreation /conservation. Where regional
policies combine with city plans and policies, a comprehensive
network of open space and attendant amenities can be created.
Where appropriate, relevant policies and goals are incorporated
into the Element to provide for the continued maintenance and
conservation of these resources.
Other General Plan Elements
Local Coastal Program
Two other elements of this General Plan provide support and
policy for open space and natural resource management. The
Land Use Element defines various uses for land throughout the
city, including open space designations. The Circulation Ele-
ment includes existing and planned paths and trails for bicycle
and pedestrian use.
Because of its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Seal Beach is sub-
ject to a state - mandated Local Coastal Program and California
Coastal Commission jurisdiction. The 1976 California Coastal
Act, which provides protection for the natural and scenic re-
sources of the coastal area, requires the preparation of a local
coastal program for jurisdictions with land within the coastal
zone. The policies defined by the Local Coastal Program (LCP)
set the standards that preserve and conserve the community's
coastal influenced resources. The City of Seal Beach Local
Coastal Program policies are included by reference as part of the
General Plan. The LCP is to be updated every five years.
County of Orange General Plan
The policies of the Recreation and Resources Elements of the
Orange County General Plan will not be in conflict with this
General Plan for the purposes of providing and maintaining all
resources related to open space /recreation /conservation. The
City will cooperate with the County to maintain consistency in
planning for regional parks and trails.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -3
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Quimby Act
Government Code 566477, also known as the Quimby Act, pro-
vides for the dedication of parkland or the payment of in lieu
fees by developers as a requirement for residential development.
This section states that "... the dedication of land, or the pay-
ment of fees, or both, shall not exceed the proportionate
amount necessary to provide 3 acres of park area per 1,000 per-
sons residing within a subdivision subject to this section, unless
the amount of existing neighborhood and community park area,
as calculated pursuant to this subdivision, exceeds that limit, in
which case the legislative body may adopt the calculated amount
as a higher standard not to exceed 5 acres per 1,000 persons re-
siding within a subdivision to this section."
Seal Beach Park Dedication Ordinance
The City's Municipal Code has established a goal of five acres of
parkland per 1,000 population.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -4
(12/03)
Definitions
Community Parks
Neighborhood Parks
View Park
Open space for outdoor recreation is defined as land that is set
aside for neighborhood, community or regional parks, beaches,
special use parks or facilities, greenbelts, and open space corri-
dors. These areas provide a pleasant environment for active and
passive recreational activities. Definitions of the various types of
recreation /open space opportunities include the following:
Community parks are larger than neighborhood parks and are
designed to serve the needs of a broader age group. They serve
the entire City and are easily accessible via arterial roads, attract-
ing people from outside the area in which they are located.
Typically, these facilities contain tennis, volleyball, handball and
basketball courts, picnic areas, and sports fields for seasonal
sports such as baseball and football. Community parks generally
range in size from approximately 5 to 30 acres.
Neighborhood parks are designed to meet the needs of individ-
ual residential developments within the City. While providing
for the recreational needs of several age groups, the neighbor-
hood park is primarily designed to meet the needs of the 5- to
14- year -old group. Children's play equipment and tennis and
basketball courts are among the facilities often found at
neighborhood parks. Other improvements might include senior
centers, youth centers, and aquatic facilities. These parks vary in
size from a single lot to parcels of approximately five acres.
View parks are smaller passive parks designed to take advantage
of a significant view. They are often located on coastal bluffs to
focus upon ocean or bay views. Most view parks are between
one -half and three acres in size and serve the entire City. View
parks are generally improved with landscaping, walkways, and
benches.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -5
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Regional Beaches and Parks
Regional beaches and parks are designated to meet the needs of
residents and non - residents and usually attract a large number of
people from outside the immediate area. Generally these facili-
ties are over 30 acres in size and appeal to all age groups. Natu-
ral surroundings and spaciousness are emphasized to a greater
degree than in community parks. Regional facilities are often
used for day -long outings.
The shoreline of Seal Beach is considered to be of regional sig-
nificance. Recreational activities are associated with the ocean,
the beach, and the pier. Primary recreational activities include
swimming, wading, surfing, pier and sport fishing, sunbathing,
jogging, volleyball, and some non - organized games. Seal Beach
contains approximately 2 miles of beachfront.
It was proposed in the Master Plan of Regional Parks for Or-
ange County that the area known as the Los Alamitos Basin
(Hellman Ranch) become a regional park. The Hellman Ranch
Specific Plan provides for passive parkland and open space. The
Table of Parks and Open Space in this section provides acreage
totals.
Sunset Marina Park (formerly Sunset Aquatic Park) lies within
the City limits of Seal Beach and is operated by the County of
Orange. The Aquatic Park contains 276 boat slips, as well as dry
boat storage facilities, and comprises 19.2 acres for passive rec-
reation.
Special Use Parks or Facilities
Special use parks or facilities are park -like places where a unique
recreational activity is provided. The service areas and size of
these facilities vary according to their principal use. These facili-
ties generally have a neighborhood or community orientation.
Playgrounds at school sites are considered to be special use fa-
cilities that provide areas for recreational activities. It is esti-
mated that 50% of the area of school sites is used as play-
grounds or athletic fields.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -6
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Bikeways
Pedestrian Trails
Existing special use parks or facilities:
1) Zoeter Park — Coastal District (1.9 acres)
2) McGaugh Elementary School — Marina Hill (4.7
acres)
3) Gum Grove Nature Park — Marina Hill/Hellman
Ranch (14.9 acres)
4) North Seal Beach Community Center — Rossmoor
Center (1.2 acres)
5) Greenbelt, including library, senior center, and Red
Car Museum (6.4 acres)
Backbone bikeways are major throughway trails that connect to
regional trails. They are primarily on major roads and serve the
functional and recreational cyclist. Secondary bikeways connect
to backbone trails and serve cyclists and children riding to and
from school.
Pedestrian trails include improved or unimproved walkways or
sidewalks located within park, beach, greenbelt, or open space
areas.
Greenbelts and Open Space Corridors
Greenbelts are recognizable expanses of undeveloped land that
provide an attractive open space setting and a buffer between
adjacent land uses. Recreational activities in these areas are usu-
ally limited to activities such as walking, picnicking, and some
organized games.
Channels and transmission rights -of -way offer a unique oppor-
tunity for joint use of facilities. Because of their configuration,
these corridors provide an excellent opportunity to incorporate
as a secondary use such things as bicycle paths, equestrian trails,
and hiking areas. The City should seek the cooperation of other
public agencies and private utility companies to expand the uses
of existing or proposed corridors under the control of these
agencies or companies.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -7
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Existing greenbelt:
1) The Pacific Electric right -of -way (6.5 acres)
2) San Gabriel River Bicycle Trail (2.0 acres)
3) Schooner Park (0.8 acres)
4) Aster Park (0.6 acres)
Public /Private Recreational Facilities
Natural Resource Land
Public /private recreational facilities may not be open to the
general public but do provide open space and a service to the
community that might otherwise not be provided. These facili-
ties may be located within a residential development and be
owned and maintained by the residents of the community, or
they could consist of individually owned and operated commer-
cial enterprises. Existing private recreational facilities include:
1) Leisure World Golf Course
2) Leisure World Club Houses
3) Old Ranch Country Club and Golf Course
4) Old Ranch Tennis Club (dedication to City pending)
Areas within the City have been designated for the preservation
of natural resources. Natural resource areas would include land
set aside for the preservation of plant and animal life, areas re-
quired for ecological and other scientific study purposes, bays
and estuaries and coastal beaches. Seal Beach National Wildlife
Refuge habitats are typical of this category. A 100 -acre portion
of the Hellman Ranch Specific Plan area has been deed re-
stricted for 25 years for sale at fair market value to a public
agency for the purposes of wetlands restoration, open space,
and environmental education purposes. The adjacent oil produc-
tion property (approximately 50 acres) has been similarly re-
stricted, although the 25 -year period does not commence until
cessation of the oil production activities.
Land for the Production of Resources
Certain parcels of land within the City are being used for agricul-
tural production, principally within the Seal Beach Naval Weap-
ons Station. This category also includes oil extraction facilities
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -8
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
that are located within Planning Areas 2 and 5. These uses are
discussed by planning area.
Parks /Open Space
Planning Area
Name
Acreage
Use Designation
PA 1
Eisenhower
1.4
NP
Marina Center and Park
2.6
NP -RF /CC
Zoeter Field
1.9
SU
Schooner
0.8
G
Windsurf
0.4
RB
Pacific Electric
6.5
SU -G
Sunset Marina
19.2*
RB
PA 2
Gum Grove Nature Park
14.9
SU
McGaugh Gym, Pool /Park
4.7
SU
Heron Pointe Park
0.2
NP
PA 3
Leisure World Golf Course /Rec Center
n/a
PF
PA 4
Edison Park and Gardens
25.9
CP
Aster Park
0.6
G
Arbor Park
7.7 **
NP
Bluebell Park
1.2
NP
Heather Park
1.6
NP
Almond Park
1.5
NP
N. Seal Beach Community Center
1.2
RF /CC
Old Ranch Country Club
146.4*
PF
Old Ranch Neighborhood Park
2.2
NP
PA 5
Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge
920*
OS
Misc.
San Gabriel River Greenbelt
2.0
G
Beaches
80.3*
RB
Total
77.3
CP = Community Park
NP = Neighborhood Park
RB = Regional Beach /Park
SU = Special Use
G = Greenbelt
RF /CC = Recreational facility /community center
OS = Open Space
PF = Private facility
* acreage not included in total
** located in Los Alamitos; leased and operated by Seal Beach
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -9
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
The Quimby Act, enacted in 1965, requires the dedication of
parkland or payment of in -lieu fees for new development. The
acreage to be dedicated is based on 5 acres per 1,000 population
as specified by the City's Municipal Code. The City of Seal
Beach has not met the necessary acreage requirements because a
significant portion of the City had been developed prior to the
time the Act was passed. However, the City benefits from non -
Quimby Act recreational amenities within its boundaries, includ-
ing 80.3 acres of beaches, the 19.2 -acre Sunset Marina Park,
which is operated by the County, and the National Wildlife Ref-
uge within the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station, each of
which provides unique regional recreational opportunities. It is
anticipated that completion of the Hellman Ranch project will
provide an additional opportunity to meet these goals through
the expansion of Gum Grove Nature Park and restoration of
the wetlands areas. In addition, the DWP Specific Plan will pro-
vide opportunities for open space and passive recreation along
the San Gabriel River.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -10
(12/03)
Issues
Open Space for Public Safety
Funding
One earthquake fault is known to exist within Seal Beach. This
fault is referred to as the Newport - Inglewood Fault. The fault
zone is located to the north of Marina Hill and parallels the
coast. Marina Hill resulted from uplifting action of the fault.
The most recent movement of this fault, which caused damage
in the Seal Beach area, occurred in 1952. The 1933 Long Beach
Earthquake was also attributed to movement along this fault.
Prior to any development adjacent to the fault zone, careful
study should be undertaken to ensure the safety of such devel-
opment. The question of the safety of construction adjacent to
this fault is addressed in the Safety Element. Certain property in
the fault zone may be retained as open space in the public inter-
est. The Hellman Ranch wetlands restoration area and the Seal
Beach Naval Weapons Station are traversed by this identified
fault.
In consideration of the preservation of open space as outlined in
this Element, it is imperative that all sources of possible funding
be explored. Federal and state assistance should be sought for
projects under the revenue sharing program. In addition, other
possible methods of financing would include allocations from
the City's general fund, general obligation bonds, assessment
districts, environmental reserve tax funds, park and recreation
funds for subdivision and non - subdivision developments and, in
restricted areas, redevelopment agency funds.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -11
(12/03)
Goals, Objectives and Policies
Because undeveloped land is becoming scarce in the City, land
for open space uses should be secured at the earliest possible
time. As additional funds become available, these areas could be
developed in accordance with this plan. It is important that land
be dedicated for park space or fees be paid in lieu of dedication
of land as residential development continues within the com-
munity. Land dedicated for park purposes should be strategically
located within any proposed development to be of greatest
benefit to the future residents and to the community as a whole.
The City has established a standard of five acres of local parks
for each 1,000 residents. While this standard has not always
been achieved, and considering the importance of open space
and recreation as contributing factors to the community's wel-
fare, the City will strive to attain this standard in areas that may
be developed in the future.
Several concepts related to parks and open space are presented
in the Land Use Element, which should be implemented if they
are determined to be feasible.
In an attempt to preserve open space lands, the following rec-
ommendations are made:
1) The City should explore all sources of possible fed-
eral, state, and county funding for open space lands,
and the conversion of surplus public lands to open
space.
2) The City should make every attempt to secure joint
use of open space corridors and lands set aside for
seasonal use by other public agencies and private
utility companies.
3) Zoning should be investigated as an alternative to
preservation of open space lands. An open space
zoning ordinance, which is consistent with this plan,
has been adopted.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -12
(12/03)
Planning Areas
The City has been divided into five Planning Areas for purposes
of consistency and ease of reference within each of the General
Plan Elements. Recreation and open space uses are discussed
below by planning area as they relate to existing conditions and
any future plans and goals. Exhibit OS -1 provides a map of ex-
isting parks, open space, and recreational areas.
Planning Area 1 - Old Town /Surfside
Existing Parks
• Eisenhower Park (1.4 acres)
• Marina Center and Park (2.6 acres)
• Zoeter Field (1.9 acres)
• Schooner Park (greenbelt) (0.8 acres)
• Windsurf Park (0.4 acres)
• Pacific Electric Park (includes special use centers of Mary
Wilson Library and Senior Center and Pacific Electric
Railway Red Car Museum) (6.5 acres)
• Sunset Marina Park (19.2 acres) (28.0 total including wa-
terways)
• Public beaches (Seal Beach /Surfside Beach) (52 acres to-
tal)
This Planning Area contains the beach frontage, which is a re-
source of local and regional attraction for recreation. The City's
two miles of coastal beaches are primarily wide, sandy beaches
with minimal vegetation coverage.
Planning Area 2 - Hellman Ranch /Marina Hill /Boeing
Existing Parks
• Gum Grove Park Nature Park (14.9 acres)
• McGaugh Gym, Pool /Park (4.7 acres)
• Heron Pointe Park (0.2 acres)
Gum Grove Park contains a dense grove of over 800 eucalyptus
trees. This park, which will be extended to Seal Beach Boulevard
as part of the Hellman Ranch project, will be dedicated to the
City for the enjoyment of the residents of the community.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -13
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
The Hellman Ranch Specific Plan provides for potential addi-
tional recreation /open space areas that may be developed as
part of the total planned community. These areas /uses include:
Los Alamitos Retarding Basin — 34.7 acres retarding ba-
sin /open space
Hellman Ranch Lowlands — 100 acres on Hellman Ranch
for future restoration, open space, and environmental
education purposes.
Oil Production Acreage — approximately 50 acres on the
Hellman Ranch that is currently used for oil production
operations for future restoration, open space, and envi-
ronmental education purposes upon the cessation of all
mineral production activities.
A pedestrian trail is planned to link to the Class I San Gabriel
River Trail through the Los Angeles Department of Water and
Power property adjacent to the west boundary of the Specific
Plan site.
Planning Area 3 - Leisure World
This Planning Area is restricted to use by the senior residents of
that community. In addition to passive park areas within Leisure
World, the Leisure World Golf Course and Clubhouse are avail-
able to residents and guests.
Planning Area 4 - College Park
Existing Parks
• Edison Park and Gardens (25.9 acres)
• Aster Park (greenbelt) (0.6 acres)
• Arbor Park (7.7 acres)
• Bluebell Park (1.2 acres)
• Heather Park (1.6 acres)
• Almond Park (1.5 acres)
• Old Ranch Neighborhood Park (2.2 acres)
• North Seal Beach Community Center (1.2 acres)
Public Facilities
Old Ranch Country Club driving range
Private Facilities
Old Ranch Country Club golf course (158 acres)
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -14
(12/03)
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Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
The North Seal Beach Community Center, a community special
use facility that offers special programs for senior citizens, is
also located in Planning Area 4. In addition, the City has the
ability to accept the property dedication of Old Ranch Tennis
Club prior to September 24, 2004. The dedication of the Old
Ranch Tennis Club facility, approximately 6.74 acres, would be
for an additional public recreational facility for the community.
The City plans to accept the Old Ranch Tennis Club before the
September 24, 2004, due date and will implement the re -use plan
being finalized.
Planning Area 5 - Seal Beach U. S. Naval Weapons Station /Wildlife
Refuge
This entire Planning Area consists of the U.S. Naval Weapons
Station. The Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge is located at
the base of Anaheim Bay and within the Naval Weapons Station
property. The refuge contains approximately 920 acres and pro-
vides a home for a number of species of fish and fowl, including
several endangered species of birds. The marshlands serve as a
nesting place for birds on their migrations and a spawning area
for fish. The refuge contains large quantities of open space and
provides variety within the predominantly urban setting.
Exhibit OS -2 provides a map of the Naval Weapons Station
showing the portion that is designated as the National Wildlife
Refuge.
Currently, commercial agricultural activities are restricted to the
Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station. Approximately 2,000 acres
of the base are currently used for the production of staple vege-
table crops, such as carrots, beets, and corn. It appears that agri-
cultural production will continue on the base for an indefinite
period of time, since it has been determined that agriculture
production is a compatible secondary use for a portion of the
base.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -17
(12/03)
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V
Conservation
Water
This portion of the Element addresses the issues of conserva-
tion, development, and utilization of natural resources within
the planning boundaries of the City of Seal Beach. The follow-
ing topics are addressed within this section of the element:
1) Water and its hydraulic force /Water Quality
2) Flood Control
3) Beach Erosion
4) Harbors
5) Wildlife Refuge
6) Rivers
7) Soils
8) Forests
9) Minerals
10) Other Natural Resources
The City of Seal Beach is included within the Orange County
Water District. The District is responsible for replenishing the
ground water basin, which serves an area from the base of the
Santa Ana Mountains to the ocean. Colorado River water is per-
colated into the underground aquifers at settling basins located
at the higher elevations at the base of the mountains. Pressure is
created due to grade differential, which causes the underground
water to be carried generally in a southwesterly direction. The
groundwater is extracted from wells located throughout the Dis-
trict.
Each year the Board of Directors for the Water District deter-
mines a ratio of groundwater to imported water that will best
serve the management needs of the District. Because of de-
mands on the groundwater basin, approximately 60,000 acre feet
of Colorado River water are percolated into the basin annually.
Orange County Water District obtains this water through Met-
ropolitan Water District.
In the past, the City has experienced some salt -water intrusion
into the underground basin. Intrusion of salt water has occurred
in an area beneath the San Gabriel River channel. As a result,
barrier wells have been drilled that inject fresh water into those
areas, which are referred to as "gaps." The boost in water pres-
sure created by the injection wells prevents salt -water intrusion
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -21
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Water Quality
from recurring. The barrier wells in the greater Seal Beach area
are located on the west side of the San Gabriel River, along
Westminster Avenue and on the Boeing Integrated Defense Sys-
tems property within the City of Seal Beach, and are operated by
the Los Angeles County Flood Control District. This conserva-
tion measure to protect the underground basin will continue in-
definitely.
Seal Beach operates three domestic fresh water wells and peri-
odically imports additional water through the Metropolitan Wa-
ter District. The domestic wells supply water to all districts on a
routine basis. Approximately 25% of Seal Beach's water is pur-
chased from the Metropolitan Water District in order to guaran-
tee availability of emergency supplies when the well water supply
is short due to maintenance or breakdown. The City purchased
the Surfside Colony water system from the City of Huntington
Beach and has incorporated it into the citywide system.
The City currently has two reservoirs with a total storage capac-
ity of 7 million gallons. A 4- million -gallon reservoir is located on
Beverly Manor Road adjoining the San Diego freeway, and a 3-
million -gallon reservoir is situated on the Naval Weapons Sta-
tion adjacent to Marina Hill. On an average, 3.6 million gallons
of water is issued each day within the community. Daily con-
sumption varies between summer and winter usage. Even with
the limited growth available to the City at this point, the City
should give serious consideration to constructing a third reser-
voir. With the expanded storage capacity, the City would reduce
the risk of a water shortage in an emergency situation.
Within the city limits of Seal Beach is the mouth of the San
Gabriel River which drains an area of approximately 700 square
miles within Los Angeles and Orange Counties, the Pacific
oceanfront, and various wetland areas that are subject to various
sources of pollution within the community. To protect public
safety, as well as these natural resources, the water quality should
be monitored and protected.
Goals and objectives include:
Coordinate water quality, supply, and conservation pro-
grams with the responsible water agencies.
Encourage the production and use of recycled water.
Conserve and protect watershed areas.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -22
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Pollutants contained in stormwater runoff are referred to as
"non- point" source pollution due to the diffuse origins of such
pollutants, including metals, organic wastes, pesticides, and a va-
riety of other pollutants. Other types of pollutants include those
that result from disinfection of drinking water and the intrusion
of salt water from the ocean into nearby groundwater aquifers.
It is these "non- point" source pollutants that are addressed by
the Open Space /Recreation/ Conservation Element in order to
protect the receiving waters.
The goal is to protect and enhance the quality of water in
local rivers and wetlands from "non- point" source pollut-
ants in order to maintain and enhance the quality of life
valued by residents and visitors to the City. In order to ac-
complish this goal, the following should be encouraged as
part of an ongoing effort to protect and maintain water
quality:
— Coordinate with other agencies in the watershed area
to develop a public education program that will in-
form the public of the importance of water quality
and actions that they can take to improve water qual-
ity.
— Coordinate with existing public outreach programs
and create additional programs to involve the com-
munity in addressing urban runoff pollution problems
and raising awareness of how individuals' activities
contribute to runoff pollution, with resulting loss of
marine biodiversity and beach closures.
— Develop measures to promote proper disposal of pol-
lutants to the sanitary sewer or hazardous waste facili-
ties rather than to the storm drain system.
— Encourage contractors to comply with accepted
stormwater pollution prevention planning practices
for all projects subject to erosion potential.
— Establish requirements for installation and mainte-
nance of stormwater structural controls to reduce
peak discharges and to maximize pollutant removal
from runoff
— Establish and coordinate good housekeeping proce-
dures for all City departments to ensure that water
quality objectives are not threatened by in -house op-
erations, creating an example for the community.
The Federal Clean Water Act requires National Pollution Dis-
charge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for stormwater
discharges from municipal storm sewer systems to waters of the
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -23
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Flood Control
United States. Each permit renewal requires the permittees to
continue to implement ongoing stormwater quality management
programs and develop additional programs in order to control
Pollutants in stormwater discharges.
Because water resources — both for domestic use and ocean-
related use — are important to the City, efforts are needed to en-
sure availability and quality. The ocean waters have a significant
natural, recreational, and economic importance to the City and
the region. Control of pollution is imperative to the future qual-
ity of the area's living environment. Water conservation and
quality should be encouraged by:
• Expanding the production of reclaimed water and devel-
oping new uses for reclaimed water;
• Requiring the use of drought resistant plant species with
mulching and composting in landscaping for private and
public areas, including parks;
• Establishing water conservation education programs;
• Requiring the incorporation of water conservation devices
in new development, pubic projects and rehabilitation
projects;
• Reducing urban pollutant runoff through National Pollu-
tion Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) programs;
and
• Developing a Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP)
for the City.
The City will cooperate with all federal, state, and local regula-
tory agencies to monitor water quality and provide infrastructure
improvements as needed to achieve these goals.
Flood control measures have been implemented throughout the
community. Major drainage channels within the City drain into
the San Gabriel River, Anaheim Bay, and Huntington Harbor.
The Orange County Flood Control District and the City are re-
sponsible for the flood control improvements within the com-
munity.
There are two flood control - retarding basins within the City. A
38 -acre basin is located south of Westminster Avenue and west
of Boeing's Seal Beach facility. This basin may be suitable for
dual usage. These uses would consist of a floodwater retarding
basin during the winter and a regional park during the drier por-
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -24
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Beach Erosion
tions of the year. The Old Ranch Country Club golf course is
used as a retarding basin for storm water run -off from College
Park East and the Los Alamitos Naval Air Station during heavy
rains.
In the future, the City should consider increasing the capacity of
the northwest area storm drain system through a capital im-
provement project.
At the County level, the Orange County Flood Control District
has developed a number of conservation techniques. These
measures include the use of importing aqueducts, additional res-
ervoirs, importing of spreading works and maintenance of open
bottom designated channels.
Historically, the stability of the shoreline was dependent upon
the delicate natural balance between the erosive forces of the
wind, the surf, and the tide and the replenishment of beach -
building materials brought down the Los Angeles and San
Gabriel Rivers. Replenishment sands from rivers have been tra-
ditionally transported southeastward by the littoral (shoreline)
currents. When the federal offshore breakwater, the First Street
jetty, and the breakwaters at Anaheim Bay were constructed, the
littoral currents in the general area were partially blocked and al-
tered.
The Seal Beach shoreline erosion problem consists of three ar-
eas:
1) The west beach is the area between the San Gabriel
River and the pier.
2) The east beach extends from the pier to the west
jetty of Anaheim Bay.
3) Anaheim Bay and Surfside beaches are considered
together and extend from Anaheim Bay to Ander-
son Street.
The jetties and the federal breakwater were built in the 1940s.
The construction of these public improvements changed the lit-
toral currents, affecting the east and west beaches. Instead of
transporting material in a southeasterly direction, the shoreline
currents were reversed and flowed in a northwesterly direction.
In 1958 -59 a groin was constructed at the base of the pier to re-
strict the erosion problem. The groin did not eliminate the ero-
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -25
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Harbors
Sion problem, and it has been estimated that 20,000 cubic yards
of sand are lost each year from the east beach. This sand is car-
ried away through the Navy harbor and west breakwater and
around the end of the groin to the west beach. In addition, the
San Gabriel River adds sand to the west beach. Because of the
changes in the shoreline currents, this sand collects as a delta at
the mouth of the river.
Because the littoral currents have been altered, the problem of
beach erosion will continue indefinitely. While the Corps of En-
gineers replenishes sand at Surfside, the City must assume full
responsibility for redistribution of sand from the west to the
east beach. The City should continue to seek assistance from
state and federal agencies in order that the City might be re-
lieved of a portion of the burden and expense of maintaining
this facility of regional significance.
Artificial means must be used in order to replenish sand to the
east beach. Since 1970, an average of 100,000 cubic yards of
sand have been redistributed on a five -year cycle from the west
beach to the east beach. However, history has shown that a five -
year project of sand replacement may not be adequate due to the
multiple offshore storms that can occur during that timeframe.
The City has a continuing redistribution program during the
winter months to provide protection from flooding due to high
tides.
Due to changes in littoral currents, the beach at Surfside erodes
at a rate of about 70 lineal feet per year. In 2001, the U. S. Army
Corps of Engineers replenished the Surfside and Sunset Beach
beaches with 2.2 million cubic yards of sand pumped from Ana-
heim Bay. This project was designed to fulfill the replenishment
needs of these beaches until 2006.
Anaheim Bay is located in the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Sta-
tion between the Coastal District and Surfside Colony. The Bay
was first used as a commercial harbor in the 1860s. Cargo was
shipped inland to the Santa Ana valley. Anaheim Bay served the
interior of Orange County for 15 years. In the mid -1870s rail
lines were extended into Orange County, and the commercial
activity at the Bay declined.
In the 1920s, the strand at Anaheim Bay took on a residential
character. In the early 1940s the federal government purchased
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -26
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Wildlife Refuge
Anaheim Bay and the adjacent land and developed the Seal
Beach Naval Weapons Station. The configuration of the bay was
modified to accommodate the Navy's needs, and in 1944 two
jetties were constructed into the ocean to form a harbor en-
trance. A 1000' -long wharf was constructed to service naval ves-
sels.
The Weapons Station handles approximately 80 military ships
per year, down from a high of approximately 600 ships per year.
Anaheim Bay also provides a channel entrance to Sunset Marina
Park and Huntington Harbor. Currently, there are approxi-
mately 276 boat slips in Sunset Marina Harbor. It is anticipated
that harbor expansion will be limited because of the possible
adverse effects on the National Wildlife Refuge located on the
Weapons Station. In addition to limiting the number of boat
slips, the configuration of the park facility was altered to lessen
its impact on the marshlands to the west.
Anaheim Bay links the salt marshlands with the ocean. The Bay
provides access to the marshlands for fish and because of tidal
fluctuations, circulates water throughout the marsh.
In 1972, the United States Congress established the Seal Beach
National Wildlife Refuge on the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Sta-
tion. The refuge contains 920 acres of marshland and 560 acres
outside the slough area, which were restored to their natural
condition. The Wildlife Refuge has an international designation
under the Ramsar Convention as a "Wetlands of International
Importance," as well as an "International Important Birding
Area" under the International Migratory Bird Treaty, and is a
Federal Marine Protected Area.
More than 200 species of birds are found within the boundaries
of the refuge during the course of a year. The marshland is pri-
marily used as a roosting area for birds. During peak migration
in December over 10,000 birds use the marshlands. Five species
of birds that are currently on the state and /or federal lists of en-
dangered species habituate the marshlands. These endangered
species are the light- footed clapper rail, the California brown
pelican, the peregrine falcon, the California least tern, and Beld-
ing's savannah sparrow.
In addition to the birds, 61 species of fish have been identified
in Anaheim Bay, the tidal channels of the marshlands. These
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -27
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Rivers
species spend at least a portion of their life cycle in the marsh
estuarine system.
The Naval Weapons Station has developed a wildlife manage-
ment program that includes the development and implementa-
tion of a wildlife management and conservation plan. The plan
relies on available Navy and non -Navy resources, as well as
close coordination with resource agencies and the public. This
will allow seamless management across jurisdictions for the
benefit of healthy and sustainable land use, habitat conservation
and improvement, and the protection of populations of endan-
gered, threatened and "management focus" species, consistent
with long -term sustainability of the Base's military mission. This
will be accomplished by employing an ecosystem management
approach that considers the station's natural and cultural re-
sources, surrounding community issues, current and emerging
technology, and military readiness. Specific goals and objectives
will be established based upon this ecosystem management ap-
proach that will also consider how the Weapons Station's natu-
ral resources fit into the larger area of regional ecosystem man-
agement. These goals and objectives are being developed and
improved upon by working groups comprised of a broad range
of regulatory agencies, technical professionals, and local com-
munity representation.
The San Gabriel River is located on the western boundary of the
City. The river, which originates in Los Angeles County, empties
into the ocean at Seal Beach. The river transports sands that aid
in the replenishment of beach sands. Sand transport has been
severely reduced due to upstream damming for water conserva-
tion and flood protection purposes. In addition, the river pro-
vides an outlet for flood control basins and channels within the
City.
The river is also a major source of ocean contamination imme-
diately after storm events due to the washing of upstream pol-
lutants and trash into the ocean. The City is responsible for re-
moval of this debris when it eventually washes on shore. The
City plans to take an active role in reducing the amount of de-
bris reaching the City beaches by joining and working with the
San Gabriel River and Mountains Conservancy.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -28
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Soils
Forests
Within the City of Seal Beach, soils are generally considered
good for agricultural purposes. Prior to the rapid urban devel-
opment in western Orange County, much of the land was used
for growing crops.
Today, the greatest majority of the land is developed with the
exception of the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station. The Navy
leases 2,000 acres of land for truck farming. The soils on the
Station are fertile and subject to few limitations with a low risk
of damage when cultivated. As long as farming does not inter-
fere with the primary mission of the Weapons Station, crops will
continue to be grown as a secondary use of the land.
The Gum Grove Nature Park is an urban forest in west Orange
County. Its first human inhabitants were the Tongva Indians,
who used this area as a viewpoint over the surrounding wet-
lands. In the early 1900s, Hellman Ranch employees planted
blue and red gum eucalyptus trees that were used for cooking
and heating. Since then, the second and third growth forest of
approximately 500 trees has become a natural resource area that
is now used for passive recreation. The Gum Grove Nature
Park will be dedicated to the City as part of the development
outlined in the Hellman Ranch Specific Plan.
The Gum Grove Nature Park houses a variety of wildlife such
as skunks, opossums, ground squirrels, toads, salamanders, tree
frogs, and coyotes native to this area. In the fall and winter
months, Monarch butterflies cover a cluster of trees during their
migratory stopovers. This ecosystem, including seasonal ponds,
supports great blue herons, snowy egrets, great egrets, and at
least two birds of prey (the American kestrel and the red tailed
hawk). Over 50 other bird species are known to be inhabitants
or visitors in this area.
The Gum Grove Nature Park Group, formed by local citizens,
is establishing a management and conservation program in co-
operation with the California Department of Forestry and the
City of Seal Beach. The vision for the entire Gum Grove Nature
Park is a two -phase transformation from a neglected habitat to
one that will support an increasing number of insect, bird, ani-
mal, and plant species that have long been native to this area.
Phase One is to plant the five acres being added to the park with
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -29
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Minerals
Cultural Resources
native plant and tree species only. Phase Two, occurring over
many years, will be native species replacement as disease contin-
ues to claim the non - native eucalyptus. These efforts and ongo-
ing maintenance will include archaeological sensitivity and cul-
tural remembrance of the original Tongva Indian residents.
The Gum Grove Nature Park is the central component of a
wildlife corridor that connects eastward with the Seal Beach Na-
tional Wildlife Refuge located on the Seal Beach Naval Weapons
Station and westward with the Hellman Wetlands, which are
designated for future restoration. The two -phase Gum Grove
Plan, in conjunction with future Hellman Wetlands restoration,
will provide a management and conservation program that will
bring back to life a severely degraded corridor. Planting of na-
tive grasses, plants, and tree species will provide for the habitat
and foraging needs of birds and animals that live and migrate
through this region.
One oil extraction site is maintained within the tidelands area of
Seal Beach. This site is known as Esther Island. Oil extraction
operations are also conducted along the Newport - Inglewood
Fault on the Hellman Ranch property and on an oil lease site in
the National Wildlife Refuge on the Seal Beach Weapons Sta-
tion.
Currently, it appears that the oil fields within the City bounda-
ries will continue in operation. If oil extraction activities are
proposed under the City's jurisdiction, existing ordinances
would regulate the operations to ensure compatibility with other
types of surrounding land uses.
The Cultural Resources Element of the City's General Plan de-
scribes methods for protecting archaeological and historical re-
sources. The element also includes local policies to guide im-
plementation of cultural resource preservation beyond the pro-
tection afforded by applicable federal, state, and local laws. Fu-
ture development within the City will be subject to these policies
and laws to preserve known and unknown sites and properties
of a cultural and historic nature.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -30
(12/03)
Open Space /Recreation /Conservation Element
Wetlands
A 100 -acre portion of the Hellman Ranch Specific Plan area has
been deed restricted for 25 years for sale at fair market value to
a public agency for the purposes of wetlands restoration, open
space, and environmental education purposes. The adjacent oil
production property (approximately 50 acres) has been similarly
restricted, although the 25 -year deed - restricted time period does
not commence until cessation of the oil production activities.
It is the intent and goal of the City to address future uses for
these areas and cooperate with the property owner, state, local,
and private agencies, as well as the community, to provide the
means to accomplish this goal.
City of Seal Beach General Plan OS -31
(12/03)