Interagency Programs

Although the majority of the CSMR programs (e.g., Part II-C, 7.0 Education and Part II-C, 8.0 Public Service Programs) have some interagency components, a series of programs function largely in the realm of interagency mandates, policies, and coordination. Examples include issues or projects related to acquisition and easements, restoration and enhancements, endangered species recovery, catastrophic event planning and response, vector control, watershed management, and ecosystem monitoring. Refer to Part I-D for a discussion of the various interagency activities.

9.0 MANAGEMENT COORDINATION PROGRAM
There are over 40 agencies and organizations involved with Carpinteria Salt Marsh (see Part I-D) as well as 20 existing programs that affect the Marsh, all of which must be incorporated into the Management Plan. This Plan organizes and prioritizes many activities, including institutional missions, governmental policies, regulatory mandates, public interests, etc. There is a clear need to have a highly coordinated managerial effort so that conflicts in policy, mandate, or interest can be identified and reconciled when possible. Furthermore, the Plan also must establish a working relationship between (a) the Reserve Administration Program (Part II-B, 1.0), which provides management authority at the CSMR to the UC Natural Reserve System and its managers; and (2) the Management Coordination Program, which provides advisory and co-sponsorship roles for the Management Advisory Committee.

Goal 9. Coordinate Reserve management with the agencies, property owners, and public interest groups that have an interest and/or responsibilities in the Carpinteria Salt Marsh and Reserve.

Policy 9-1. Provide managerial programs that will be mechanisms for the discussion, integration, and reconciliation of the many missions, mandates, policies, and interests of participating institutions, agencies, and organizations.

Action 9-1.1. Recognize the UC Natural Reserve System and its Managers as the management authority at the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve.

Action 9-1.2. Establish the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Management Advisory Committee, which will be advisory to the UCSB Natural Reserve System Reserve Manager. The Reserve Manager shall work with this committee to develop and implement a Management Coordination Program that will provide the forum for resolution of issues relating to the CSMR. The Committee shall have the following membership:

a. One representative for each of the owners of parcels, or groups of parcels, in the Reserve;

b. One representative from each of the identified federal, state, city, organization, corporate, and university agencies or public interest groups that have a role or interest in Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

c. One representative each from the County Flood Control District and Planning and Development Departments.

The Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve will be managed by the UCSB Natural Reserve System in association with the CSMR Faculty and Reserve Managers, and the UCSB NRS Advisory Committee, and in coordination with the CSM Management Advisory Committee, consistent with this Plan. Day-to-day management of the Reserve will be handled by the Reserve Manager. In contrast, major maintenance, restoration, enhancement, or Flood Control projects that include more than University land should be co-sponsored by the University, Land Trust, and/or other appropriate land owners.

Action 9-1.3. Establish the Executive Committee of the Carpinteria Marsh Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC), which will include ten members and one ex-officio member, as follows (see Figure 24):

UCSB Faculty Manager
Land Trust for Santa Barbara County
County Flood Control District
County Planning and Development Department
City of Carpinteria
Sandyland Protective Association
Sandyland Cove Homeowner’s Association
Union Pacific Railroad Co.
Agriculture/greenhouse operator
Residential property owner not included in a home owners’ association
Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve Manager (ex officio member)

The Executive Committee will work in coordination with the Reserve Manager on major matters relating to management and restoration of the Reserve as outlined under Action 9-1.2 above.

Action 9-1.4. Within one year of adoption of the Management Plan, the Executive Committee shall work with the Reserve Manager to develop and adopt by-laws that address the following:

a. Reserve Manager’s role on the Executive Committee as ex-officio or non-voting;

b. Election of the Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Management Advisory Committee and Executive Committee for one year terms. The Reserve Manager shall not be eligible to be Chairman of the two committees;

c. A process to resolve concerns between the Management Advisory Committee, Executive Committee, and/or the UC Natural Reserve System Managers;

d. UCSB Natural Reserve System staff to serve as support staff to the two committees; and

e. Other issues relevant to the overall management of the Reserve.

Status
In the short term, the City of Carpinteria’s Marsh/Park Steering Committee serves as the best forum for coordinating the many constituents proposed to participate in the implementation of the Management Plan. Although the primary focus of the Steering Committee is to plan and implement the Ash Avenue Wetland Enhancement Plan, many other forms of coordination also take place. As proposed herein, the Management Advisory Committee would replace the City’s Steering Committee, and the former would be advisory to the UC Natural Reserve System, the UCSB NRS Advisory Committee, and the CSMR Reserve Manager. Predecessors to these two committees include the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Ad Hoc Committee, the CSMR Advisory Committee, and the County’s Marsh Monitoring Committee.

Implementation Priorities
Several actions should take place nearly simultaneously for the Management Plan to take effect as outlined in II-F, Approval and Amendment Process. The overall approval of the Management Plan will include several steps: (1) review by all owners of property within the proposed expanded Reserve; (2) publication of the Plan; (3) signing by property owners of Conservation Easements; (4) development of a cooperative agreement between the Land Trust and University of California for the management of the conservation easement lands by the UC Natural Reserve System; and (5) convening of the CSMR Management Advisory Committee. The Plan also may undergo environmental review which will facilitate its implementation once funding becomes available for the numerous programs contained in the Plan.

Once the Management Plan is approved and the Management Advisory Committee is appointed, the Committee should first draft by-laws to govern their procedures and operations. The by-laws should determine, for example, how voting or reaching consensus on issues should be handled, frequency of meetings, term limits, etc. A process to resolve concerns (see Action 9-1.4c above) should also be included in the by-laws.

Constituents
The many constituents of the Plan and the Management Coordination Program have been discussed in Part I-A, Introduction and Part II-D, Agencies. Program 10.0, Acquisition and Easement Program, and Figure 25 discuss or reference categories of property owners and the conservation easement process. Major constituents of the Management Advisory Committee include:

Property owners or tenants, including State (University of California), County Flood Control District, City, Land Trust, corporate (Union Pacific Railroad), private homeowners’ association (Sandyland Protective Association), and private individual or family

Property owners or tenants, including State (University of California), County Flood Control District, City, Land Trust, corporate (Union Pacific Railroad), private homeowners’ association (Sandyland Protective Association), and private individual or family

Regulatory and advisory agencies, including federal (e.g, EPA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Corps), state (e.g., Department of Fish and Game, State Coastal Conservancy, and California Coastal Commission), county (Flood Control, Mosquito Abatement District, and Planning and Development), city (Public Works), and University agencies (e.g., Environmental Health and Safety, and Facilities Management), commissions, offices, boards, and committees

Utilities and districts, including water and sanitation districts

Conservation and other public interest groups

Residential, commercial, and industrial constituents in the Carpinteria Salt Marsh watershed

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
The success of the Management Coordination Program will depend on the degree of participation of the constituents. If all property owners participate, then an essential component of the Management Advisory Committee will have been established. The Committee’s usefulness will depend on the active participation of the various members. The existing 120 acre Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve is already a success and will be even more so when it is expanded to include the entire estuarine system. Other limitations include those related to management of the various sub-watersheds of CSMR that can have a profound influence on the estuarine ecosystem. (See 18.0 Watershed Management Program, 19.0 Flood Control Program, and 20.0 Ecosystem Monitoring Program, for goals, policies, and actions related to watershed issues.)

The Management Coordination Program would require dedication, patience, and cooperation among the constituents and a continuing desire on the part of the surrounding community to preserve, protect, enhance, and restore Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Justification for the Management Coordination Program can be found in the purpose for producing this plan. Although the University of California now requires all Reserve Managers to develop management plans for Natural Reserve System reserves, there seemed to be little point in developing a plan for the existing CSMR as long as the Reserve included only 120 of the 230 acres of habitat estimated to be associated with Carpinteria Salt Marsh. This process of developing a management plan and the associated conservation easements, advisory committee, and goals, policies, and actions provides the ideal context for solving management issues and for setting future planning goals for the entire marsh.

Discussion. The Executive Committee is expected to meet quarterly or as needed. The entire Management Advisory Committee will meet annually or as needed. Bylaws for the Committee should be drafted as early as possible and could be modeled after the Bylaws of the Goleta Slough Management Committee. The Chair of the Committee should rotate among members of the Executive Committee. The CSMR Faculty Manager will represent the UCSB Natural Reserve System and NRS Advisory Committee on the Management Advisory Committee. The CSMR Reserve Manager will be an Ex-Officio Member to whom the Management Advisory Committee provides input regarding issues as presented in the Management Plan.

10.0 ACQUISITION AND EASEMENTS PROGRAM
One important aspect of the CSMR Management Plan is to identify all remaining undeveloped properties within or adjacent to the marsh that may be acquired and added to the Reserve. These properties, which have limited protection and no effective management structure, could be acquired through gift, purchase, or conservation easements to assure that all extant habitat occurs within the CSMR. The following goals, policies, and actions will assist in the acquisition of important parcels of land within and adjacent to the marsh.

Goal 10. Acquire all parcels at Carpinteria Salt Marsh and include them in the Reserve as shown in Figure 25.

Policy 10-1. Prioritize and pursue inclusion of identified parcels in the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve.

Action 10-1.1. Survey the boundaries of all parcels that may be included in the Reserve.

Action 10-1.2. Work with landowners to secure easements or gifts of land to add to the Reserve.

Policy 10-2. Provide for the acquisition of all parcels within the adjacent City and County portions of Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Action 10-2.1. The City of Carpinteria shall be the lead agency for the acquisition of Ash Avenue parcels within the City limits. The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County shall serve as the lead organization for the purchase of parcels within the County portion of Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Policy 10-3. Provide for the acquisition of conservation easements by the Land Trust on parcels within Basin III of Carpinteria Salt Marsh that will remain in private ownership.

Action 10-3.1. Coordinate with the Land Trust or other appropriate agencies in the acquisition of conservation easements over privately-owned parcels within Basin III of the Marsh.

Policy 10-4. Transfer authority for management of all habitat parcels within or adjacent to Carpinteria Salt Marsh to the University of California’s Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve, in coordination with the Management Advisory Committee.

Action 10-4.1. Upon completion and endorsement of the CSMR Management Plan, the City of Carpinteria, Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, University of California, and other owners shall be encouraged to sign cooperative agreements or other documents of similar intent to permit the expansion of the boundaries of CSMR to include all additional parcels, thus resulting in the Reserve and ecosystem boundaries being essentially equivalent.

Policy 10-5. Pursue possible addition of the Carpinteria Reef and nearshore marine habitats to the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve.

Action 10-5.1. Work with the State Lands Commission and other appropriate entities to determine the benefits and feasibility of adding the rocky subtidal reef offshore of the mouth of CSMR to the Reserve.

Status
During the past few years, the City has acquired parcels along Ash Avenue and the Land Trust has acquired a 90% ownership interest in Basin I (between Franklin and Santa Monica Creeks) and the South Marsh (south of the Main Channel). The Carpinteria Salt Marsh Enhancement Project, Phase 1 – Ash Avenue Wetland Area has been developed and is expected to be implemented in 1997. Escrow has closed on all the Ash Avenue parcels.

“Acquisition and restoration of the Ash Avenue properties that border the Reserve are being planned by the [Carpinteria Salt Marsh] Ad Hoc Committee, the City of Carpinteria, and the State Coastal Conservancy. The Ash Avenue Plan includes restoration of the wetlands habitats, construction of public access ways, an interpretive center, street parking, beach lifeguard station and restrooms, and possibly a marsh endowment fund. The City eventually would own the restored properties and would maintain the public access program. The University would assume management responsibilities of the restored wetlands. The entire program will cost over $2 million and is the highest priority of the Ad Hoc Committee. The Ash Avenue Plan facilitates improved relations, public access and education, and restored habitats, while protecting the integrity of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve. Funds for the property may come from the Coastal Resource Enhancement Fund, Proposition 70 Bond Act, City of Carpinteria, State Coastal Conservancy, and California License Plate Fund.” (W. R. Ferren, UCSB NRS Annual Report, 1987-1988)

Additional acquisitions of land from within the proposed expanded boundary of the Reserve include the purchase by the Land Trust of majority interest in the Sandyland Cove Trust, which holds title to Basin I, the South Marsh, and Sand Point (now subtidal). These acquisitions are significant and have reduced number of owners of wetland habitat in the Marsh. Money for purchase by the Land Trust has come largely from Coastal Resource Enhancement Funds. As a local owner, the Land Trust will be responsive to the needs of the Reserve users and will be a major player on the Management Advisory Committee. This Plan also proposes that the Land Trust hold title to the Conservation Easements on the remaining portions of Carpinteria Salt Marsh not currently within the CSMR.

Implementation Priorities. The City has acquired all of the Ash Avenue parcels. Priorities for purchase include the two “mouth parcels” that occur adjacent to University land. The Williamson parcel to the east of the mouth and the Fomon parcel to the west of the mouth have each been on the market (in 1995) for $1.5 million (see Fig. 4, Ownership of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh). Purchase of these sites with public funds, following the use of $2,375,000 for the Ash Avenue parcels, may be difficult at best. Potential acquisition through agency condemnation or dedication of much of the property in association with residential development on some of the property may be possible for saving all or most of these sites. Because all of the natural dune habitat at Carpinteria Salt Marsh has been destroyed through erosion of the shoreline and development on the dunes, the mouth parcels are the only possible sites for dune restoration projects. Because endangered Least Terns and Snowy Plovers formerly nested in this area, there are ecosystem as well as aesthetic reasons for wanting to keep as much of the parcels undeveloped as possible.

Regarding conservation easements, priorities for acquisition of easements include the Fomon and Williamson parcels and the many narrow strip-parcels at the west end of Basin III. Other easements could be negotiated for city, county, and Sandyland Protective Association, and Land Trust parcels.

The Carpinteria Reef is a rocky, subtidal reef that is significant in the formation of the estuary in which Carpinteria Salt Marsh is located. The reef also provides important habitat for lobsters and other significant biological resources of the region. The shallow subtidal habitat between the reef and the shoreline may also provide important nursery habitat for marine fish such as halibut which also use the estuary for young-of-the-year fish. Because of the reef’s physical and biological links to Carpinteria Salt Marsh, it is a logical feature to consider for inclusion into the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Constituents include property owners as listed on Fig. 4, and as classified by ownership type on Fig. 25. Constituents include the following categories of ownership:

State: University of California and State Lands Commission
County: Santa Barbara County Flood Control District
City: City of Carpinteria
Corporate: Union Pacific Railroad Company
Non-profit Organization: Land Trust for Santa Barbara County
Private Associations: Sandyland Protective Association and Sandyland Cove Homes Association
Private Individual: Thirteen individuals and families

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
Limitations to the Acquisition and Easements Program include availability of property for purchase, willing sellers, or willing participants in the conservation easement program. The successful acquisition of the Ash Avenue parcels, Basin I, and the South Marsh all contribute to the momentum that has been achieved to date. However, scarce public and private funds may make it difficult to acquire title to additional private lands.

Acquisition and easement needs include: (1) potential acquisition of title or easements on the mouth parcels; (2) potential acquisition of title or easements on private parcels; (3) potential acquisition of easements at the Carpinteria Reef and adjacent near-shore habitats to include the area into CSMR; and (4) cooperative agreements among the various parties that result in the expansion of the CSMR boundaries to include the parcels discussed herein.

Discussion
It is the intention of this Plan that various portions of the estuary be owned by as few owners as possible. The principal owners include the University of California, Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, City of Carpinteria, Sandyland Protective Association and some residents of Sandyland, all of whom will be members of the Management Advisory Committee. This Plan intends that the Land Trust will hold easements over the various remaining private parcels and, through a cooperative agreement with the University of California, the Natural Reserve System will manage all such parcels in addition to the existing Reserve. Separate cooperative agreements will be negotiated between the UC NRS and the County of Santa Barbara and the City of Carpinteria. The result will be Reserve and ecosystem boundaries that are the same, an important goal of the Management Plan.

11.0 ECOSYSTEM AND RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
Carpinteria Salt Marsh is one of the most well-preserved and protected estuaries in southern California, where as much as 90% of the estuarine wetland area has been destroyed in the last 100 years. Federal and state legislation and county and city policies provide protection for Carpinteria Salt Marsh at many levels. Because of the fragmented ownership and many over-lapping jurisdictions, policies to protect and maintain resources vary within the Carpinteria Salt Marsh. A goal of the Management Plan is to extend the University’s Reserve boundary so that the Reserve and estuary are one and the same; therefore some integration of polices is essential. Many of the existing policies for the various regulatory agencies have been identified in Part I of this document. The “Ecosystem and Resource Preservation Program” provides a general integration of the policies cited previously.

Several conditions were conveyed with the Grant Deed (see Appendix D) to the University of California. The first of these conditions is relevant to the preservation of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

The real property shall be maintained and used as a natural reserve for educational and scientific purposes…and no development of the real property shall be permitted whatsoever except such development which is necessary for maintenance and use of the real property as a natural reserve for educational and scientific purposes, including the opening of the slough mouth from the real property to the Pacific Ocean to maintain tidal action in the salt water marshes on the real property and regulating flood waters from Santa Monica Creek across the real property to assure maintenance of the real property in its natural condition. If certain development of the real property is necessary for the maintenance and use of the property as a natural reserve for educational and scientific purposes, such development shall be designed and constructed to minimize the effect on the natural condition of the real property.

The goals, policies, and actions of this program are:

Goal 11. Protect and maintain the estuarine ecosystem at CSMR and its physical, biological, and cultural resources, diversity, and functions.

Policy 11-1. Extend CSMR boundaries to bring sensitive lands under Reserve management as outlined in Program 10, Acquisition and Easements.

Action 11-1.1. Pursue acquisition, conservation easements, and/or cooperative agreements to ensure the preservation and appropriate management of Carpinteria Salt Marsh parcels and resources.

Policy 11-2. Protect the resources and functions of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh through careful implementation of the Management Plan and the Management Coordination Program (see 9.0).

Policy 11-3. To the maximum extent feasible, the mouth of Carpinteria Salt Marsh should remain open to maintain optimal tidal circulation.

Action 11-3.1. Following confirmation that mouth closure has occurred, actions to open the mouth should be taken as soon as possible. The Reserve Manager and Management Advisory Committee should work with the County Flood Control District and relevant permitting agencies to implement this policy.

Status
Carpinteria Salt Marsh is recognized widely for the importance of its ecosystem functions and socio-economic values. It is one of the 19 estuaries mentioned specifically in the California Coastal Act (Section 30233) and is protected by many federal, state, county, city, and university policies (Refer to Part I-A: Introduction, and I-D, Agencies, for a summary of regulatory agencies and their associated policies regarding ecosystem preservation). At present (1997), however, only 120 acres of the total 230 acres of the estuary and adjacent lands are within the boundary of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve. Thus, much of the estuary has no formal preservation and maintenance plan nor management authority that oversees its use. It is the goal of this Management Plan to eventually have all parcels included within the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve that are highlighted in Program 10.0, Acquisition and Easements Program.

Implementation Priorities
Priorities of the Preservation and Maintenance Program include implementation of many of the programs contained in this Management Plan:

To protect the estuary and to develop a program to maintain the resources that exist, acquisition of certain parcels vulnerable to development and acquisition of conservation easements on all parcels not currently in the Reserve is critical.

Implementation of the Restoration and Enhancement Program (see 12.0) is an important step toward maintenance of the estuary’s sediment loads, tidal prism, and open mouth. The Restoration and Enhancement Program includes the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Enhancement Project, which is Phase II of the CSM Restoration Plan.

Implementation of the Invasive Exotic Plant Removal Program (see 14.0) and the Animal Damage Control Program (see 16.0) in coordination with the Endangered Species Recovery Program (see 13.0), are additional steps that assist with the preservation and maintenance of the natural resources of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Implementation of a Catastrophic Event Response Program (see 17.0), a Watershed Management Program (see 19.0) and an Ecosystem Monitoring Program (see 20.0) also could assist in potentially minimizing impacts to the estuary from catastrophic and chronic conditions in lands adjacent to the Reserve and in understanding and rectifying those impacts that occur.

Implementation of the Management Coordination Program (see 9.0) and formation of the Management Advisory Committee will be key to the success of other programs and to the preservation and maintenance of the functions and values of the ecosystem.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
A primary goal of this Plan and the CSMR Management Advisory Committee is the preservation and maintenance of the natural resources at Carpinteria Salt Marsh. Because the Committee has a broad base of constituents, including owners, regulators, or both, the responsibilities do not fall solely on the University as the management authority in the ecosystem. The various constituents are brought together because of the Plan. It is not proposed here that one’s responsibility to the land and its natural resources should be relinquished but rather that a partnership be forged among the agencies, owners, and others with an interest or role in the marsh. As discussed in Program 9.0, the Management Advisory Committee will offer input to the Reserve Manager on major projects proposed within the Reserve.

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
Preservation and maintenance will be limited if some property owners do not participate in the Management Advisory Committee or if they do not sign the cooperative agreements relating to management of the Reserve by UCSB. Another limitation could be money for implementation of the Management Plan and its programs, goals, policies, and actions.

As a Trustee Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act, the University of California manages the resources of its lands in the Public Trust. Regarding the establishment of reserves, the UC Natural Reserve System (1991) maintains that, “Setting aside the land is simply the first step in fulfilling that [public] trust. Reserves require active, scientifically sound management to ensure their continued viability as natural systems, as well as their long-term availability for teaching and research. This truly fulfills our responsibility as Trustee.” Thus the University is committed fully to the preservation of the land and its resources at CSMR.

12.0 RESTORATION AND ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM
Although Carpinteria Salt Marsh is one of the least degraded estuaries in southern California, various detrimental changes, such as fragmentation by berms, channelization, infilling, and degradation by pollutants, have resulted in the need to implement a series of restorations and enhancements. Some of these actions include one-time, large-scale restoration efforts, whereas others are perhaps best considered on-going maintenance actions for sediment control or other chronic conditions. Refer to Fig. 26 for the location of proposed or potential restoration and enhancement areas. Table 12 briefly describes the scope of the restoration projects that are planned, including the location, owner, and project applicant(s). That table shows that most of the members of the Management Advisory Committee outlined in Pro-gram 9.0 are or will be involved in future restoration and enhancement projects at the Marsh.

As with the “Ecosystem and Resource Preservation and Maintenance Program” (see 11.0), the importance of Carpinteria Salt Marsh, as noted from many scientific and regulatory sources, warrants significant attention to its restoration or enhancement as well as its preservation. As included herein, ecological restoration in a broad sense can include, but may not be limited to, habitat or ecosystem restoration; habitat or ecosystem enhancement; creation or recreation of habitats; rehabilitation; translocation or recovery of endangered organisms; landscaping or revegetation of sites; and eradication of invasive exotic species.

Goal 12. To the maximum extent feasible, enhance and restore the estuary’s natural diversity of resources, habitats, physical processes, and functions through the enhancement and restoration of natural self-sustaining processes.

Policy 12-1. Through the Management Coordination Program (see 9.0), work with the various property owners and regulatory agencies to implement restoration and enhancement projects in the ecosystem.

Action 12-1.1. Work with the City of Carpinteria, State Coastal Conservancy, and Land Trust for Santa Barbara County to implement the “Carpinteria Salt Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase I – Ash Avenue Area”.

Action 12-1.2. Assist the County Flood Control District with the planning, review, permitting, and implementation of the “Carpinteria Salt Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase II – Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan”.

Action 12-1.3. Coordinate restoration and enhancement activities throughout the estuary with the Management Advisory Committee, and with Flood Control and Vector Control activities that could affect the restoration or enhancement goals of this Plan.

Action 12-1.4. Identify sites throughout the estuary and develop plans where restoration, enhancement, or other beneficial activities should be implemented to improve the quality of the ecosystem (See Fig. 26).

Action 12-1.5. Implement plans designed to restore or enhance the quality of the estuarine ecosystem at CSMR (See Fig. 26).

Action 12-1.6. Evaluate the need for increasing circulation and improving water quality in the north marsh area and, if appropriate, implement the recommendations of the study.

Policy 12-2. Coordinate the CSMR “Restoration and Enhancement Program” with other Reserve programs regarding resource management.

Action 12-2.1. Coordinate restoration and enhancement activities with the “Endangered Species Recovery Program” (see 13.0).

Action 12-2.2. Coordinate restoration and enhancement activities with the “Invasive Exotic Plant Removal Program” (see 14.0)

Status
CSMR is in an excellent position to initiate a multifaceted Restoration and Enhancement Program throughout the estuary and adjacent lands (Fig. 24). Long-term and large-scale projects such as the “Carpinteria Salt Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase I – Ash Avenue Wetland Area” (see Rivertech & Spectra Information 1991, Moffett & Nichols Engineers, 1996, and Figs. 27 and 28) and the “Carpinteria Salt Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase II – Marsh Enhancement Plan” (see Dames & Moore 1988 and Figs. 26 and 34) are examples of projects for which there are designs and environmental review in progress. In Phase I, the City of Carpinteria and its Marsh/Park Steering Committee have spearheaded a ten-year effort to acquire and restore approximately eight acres on the eastern margin of the estuary. The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County owns several acres west of this site that are included within the restoration plan. The project is schedule to begin construction in July 1997. The scope, location, applicant, and other information about these projects and plans are included in Table 13.

CSM Restoration Plan, Phase II: Carp. Marsh Enhancement Project:

Basin I Restoration
Basin II Restoration
Channel Enhancements (Franklin and Santa Monica Creeks and Basin III)
South Marsh Enhancements
Estuary Mouth Enhancements, Reconfiguration and Dune Restoration

CSM Restoration Plan, Phase III: Basin III Enhancements:

Basin III Channel Study and Potential Enhancements
North Marsh Enhancements

Phase II is the final phase of the Carpinteria Valley Watershed Plan that was developed in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It is a wetland enhancement plan that also achieves a measure of flood protection for the region. The project includes the widening and deepening of portions of Franklin and Santa Monica creeks and the Main Channel to accommodate more sediment and flood waters. The latest design (1991, 1994) also includes a reconfiguration of the estuary mouth, removal of sediment from Basin III, replacement of culverts under Estero Way Extension, restoration of the South Marsh, and the restoration of Basin I (Fig. 26). Because of recent (1996-97) data obtained by County Flood Control that the engineering of the Marsh Enhancement Project may not achieve the flood protection goals, Phase II of the Restoration Plan is being re-evaluated and environmental review has been postponed.

Implementation Priorities
Implementation priorities for restoration and enhancement projects at Carpinteria Salt Marsh include the following:

Phase I, Ash Avenue Wetland Area, including City and Land Trust parcels
Phase II, Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan, also including Basins I, II and III and the South Marsh
Basins II, III, north margin area
Basin III, channel improvement study
Basin II, dredge spoil restoration sites
Fomon and Williamson parcels dune restoration
Implementation of the “Endangered Species Recovery Program” (see 13.0)
Implementation of the “Invasive Exotic Plant Removal Program” (see 14.0)
Implementation of the “Animal Damage Control Program” (see 16.0)

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Constituents include all participants in the CSMR Management Plan, including the regulatory agencies responsible for permitting projects. These may include, but are not limited to, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, California Coastal Commission, California Department of Fish and Game, and Regional Water Quality Control Board. Each project will have a lead or co-lead agency, such as the City of Carpinteria for the Ash Avenue Project and the County Flood Control District for the Marsh Enhancement Project.

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
Limitations to ecological restoration and enhancement include availability of parcels and funds, potential lack of permits, and disagreement among participants on program priorities. Other limitations include the goals and potential for successful projects, and potential conflicts among restoration projects and among programs contained in the Management Plan.

13.0 ENDANGERED AND SPECIAL INTEREST SPECIES PROTECTION AND RECOVERY PROGRAM
The Endangered Species Act requires the development and implementation of recovery plans for listed species so that at some point they may recover from being endangered, and thus be de-listed. For the purposes of this Plan, the Endangered and Special Interest Species Protection and Recovery Program includes various sensitive plant and animal species within the Reserve that may have federal or state protection as endangered or threatened species or they may be special interest species. It also includes those that are listed as endangered or of some special status by the California Natural Diversity Database, the California Native Plant Society, the Audubon Society and/or regional authorities on particular groups of organisms. The species of interest include those that contribute to or benefit from ecosystem functions at Carpinteria Salt Marsh and whose numbers are significantly declining or threatened at local, regional, or continental levels.

Goal 13. Provide for the protection and recovery of endangered and special interest plant and animal species at Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve.

Policy 13-1. Protect endangered and other special interest plant and animal species and their habitats.

Action 13-1.1. Identify and census all endangered and other special interest species at CSMR.

Action 13-1.2. Work with regulatory agencies and property owners to protect endangered and other special interest species and their habitats at CSMR.

Action 13-1.3. Work with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Animal Damage Control to reduce or eliminate threats to endangered species from introduced and native predatory animals.

Policy 13-2. When appropriate, contribute to the recovery of endangered and other special interest plant and animal species.

Action 13-2.1. Develop and implement endangered species recovery plans for endangered plants, particularly the Salt Marsh Bird’s Beak.

Action 13-2.2. Develop and implement endangered species recovery plans for endangered animals, particularly the Light-footed Clapper Rail and Belding’s Savannah Sparrow.

Action 13-2.3. Work with regulatory agencies toward the translocation of endangered and special interest species into the marsh that have been determined to have been extirpated from CSMR.

Status
Carpinteria Salt Marsh provides habitat for a series of endangered and special interest plants and animals listed or proposed by federal or state agencies or by conservation organizations. Endangered or special interest species are found in estuaries such as Carpinteria Salt Marsh because of the interface of a series of factors including but not limited to: (1) the narrowly-restricted occurrence of the ecosystems along the coast of southern California; (2) the loss of approximately 90% of the estuarine habitat in the region because of urban and agricultural development of the coast; and (3) the introduction of non-native predatory animals and invasive exotic plants. Carpinteria Salt Marsh and Goleta Slough are the northernmost large estuaries in southern California, and because these estuaries are near the transition between the northern and southern California biogeographic areas, various plant and animal species reach their northern or southern geographic limits in the vicinity of these ecosystems. Populations of such organisms may also be vulnerable to regional extirpation because these populations may exist under less than optimum conditions for the species.

Table 14 includes selected plant species of special interest that are known to occur or have occurred at Carpinteria Salt Marsh. Table 15 includes selected animal species of special interest. Both of these tables contain examples and will be revised as outlined in Action 13-1.1. Additional bird species that appear at Carpinteria Salt Marsh and are on the state’s draft list of special concern include: Belted Kingfisher, Black Tern, Bufflehead, Caspian Tern, Eared Grebe, Elegant Tern, Forster’s Tern, Large-billed Savannah Sparrow, Marbled Godwit, Short-eared Owl and White-faced Ibis.

Four species of special interest in particular have received specific attention at CSMR. The Light-footed Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) is federal and state Endangered and currently reaches its northwestern limit of distribution at CSMR. The clapper rail has been the subject of various studies (e.g.: Ledig 1989; Mullen 1989; Zembal 1987, 1990, 1991a; Zembal et al. 1985; Zembal and Massey 1995) initiated by or associated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the agency that administers the Endangered Species Act of 1976. Although Carpinteria Salt Marsh supported a relatively stable breeding population of about 24 pairs until 1985, no individuals apparently persisted for a period of years after 1988. The precipitous decline of the Carpinteria population has been attributed (D. Zembal, pers. comm. 1991) to predators as well as changes in the flow of fresh water into the marsh and the subsequent loss of brackish marsh habitats that included secondary breeding sites for clapper rails (Ferren, pers. obser. 1980s and Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology nest records). From 1995-97 there have been two to four pairs and a few solitary males reported at Carpinteria Salt Marsh (Ferren and Hansen, pers. observ. 1995-97, and D. Zembal, pers. comm. 1997).

To re-establish clapper rails at CSMR, the Fish and Wildlife Service had proposed to translocate individuals from Newport Back Bay in Orange County, California (Clark 1991, Haupt 1991, Holmgren 1991, Zembal 1991b). However, clapper rails are now known to occur in the estuary, a sign that a breeding population may be able to re-establish at CSMR. The Fish and Wildlife Service (U.S. Department of the Interior) contributed funds to Animal Damage Control (U.S. Department of Agriculture) in 1993, 1995 and 1996 to trap and remove a series of mammalian predators that are known to prey on clapper rails (see Part II-D, 16.0 Animal Damage Control Program). Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve continues to be a critical site for the implementation of the Clapper Rail Recovery Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1983). However, various recommendations in the Plan (e.g., the creation of low marsh habitat dominated by Spartina foliosa (Cordgrass) are not relevant to CSMR (see Ferren 1985), and thus a careful reconsideration of specifics of the Plan is warranted.

Belding’s Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi), another bird of special interest, also has been the focus of a series of studies (e.g., Burnell 1990, Johnson 1986, Peterson 1988); however, the current status of this state-listed endangered bird in the estuary apparently is not as vulnerable as that of the clapper rails because individuals have been observed regularly (e.g., Hansen 1989-1996). Although this sparrow also is a ground-nesting bird largely restricted to estuarine wetlands in southern California and northern Baja California, predation upon it does not appear to be a serious threat at CSMR. Loss of estuarine wetland habitat throughout the geographic range of Belding’s Savannah Sparrow may be the single most significant impact that has resulted in a decline of the bird. Protection of the salt marsh habitats may be sufficient to ensure continuation of this species at CSMR and to contribute to its regional recovery (Holmgren, pers. comm. 1995).

Two plants of special interest, Salt Marsh Bird’s-beak (Cordylanthus maritimus ssp. mariti-mus) and Salt Marsh Goldfields (Lasthenia glabrata ssp. glabrata), also are a focus of attention at CSMR (see Figure 29). Salt Marsh Bird’s-beak, a federal-listed endangered member of the Figwort Family, has been observed and reported by a number of researchers (e.g., Ferren 1985, Ornduff 1966, Smith 1952, 1976). It has become endangered largely through the destruction of wetland habitat. It occurs almost entirely in Basin III in one large population of several thou-sand plants (see map in Ferren 1985), and intermittently in several small colonies most of which do not persist beyond one or two years. An exception to this are two small colonies on University property near the mouth of the estuary. The sites are of particular interest because they are potentially threatened by an invasive exotic species of Sea Lavender (Limonium ramosissimum) which has colonized the sandy upper marsh habitat where Cordylanthus is restricted. The sites are currently the focus of a series of studies by researchers from UCSB, with funding from the USFWS. The “Salt Marsh Bird’s-beak Recovery Plan” (USFWS 1985) includes a number of recommendations specific to CSMR that will be incorporated into some of the restoration proposals for the estuary, particularly the “Carpinteria Salt Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase I – Ash Avenue Wetland Area” (Moffatt & Nichol 1996).

Salt Marsh Goldfields is listed as endangered by the California Native Plant Society and it is a Federal Special Status Species. It occurs in one large population in Basin II on the delta of Santa Monica Creek and in one small colony with Salt Marsh Bird’s-beak in Basin III (Ferren 1985). In a series of studies (e.g., Callaway et al. 1990, Callaway and Sabraw 1994) on the occurrence of winter annuals at CSMR, it was determined that in the deltaic occurrence Lasthenia was characterized by euryhaline soils (seasonally hypersaline), sparse perennial cover, and a seasonal lack of flooding by periodic lower, high tides. The Basin II site is the reference for proposed habitat creation as part of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase I – Ash Avenue Wetland Project.

Implementation Priorities
Although preservation and restoration of CSMR contribute to the maintenance of the biodiversity of the estuary including the persistence of various species of special interest, these actions alone may not be sufficient to protect and recover some of the sensitive species such as Light-footed Clapper Rails. The following are long-term and short-term implementation priorities for the Endangered Species and Special Interest Protection and Recovery Program:

Short-Term Priorities:
Continue to work with U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Animal Damage Control to protect clapper rails and other ground-nesting birds from predators that threaten the existence of these birds at CSMR.
Develop and implement a regular census program for the Light-footed Clapper Rail and Belding’s Savannah Sparrow, including the determination of any breeding activities.
Reconsider the use of artificial nesting platforms if natural sites for nesting are not currently used by clapper rails.
Prepare a thorough checklist of species of special interest, including plants and vertebrate and invertebrate animals, that historically or currently occur or are likely to occur in Carpinteria Salt Marsh and adjacent habitats.

Long-Term Priorities:
Census and map when feasible all species of special interest located on the prepared checklist for CSMR.
Develop and implement a reserve-specific protection and recovery plan for all species of special interest at CSMR.
Implement the various phases of the Recovery and Enhancement Program with elements sensitive to the protection and recovery of species of special interest.
Translocate from appropriate genetic stock various species of special interest for which successful re-establishment is thought to be desirable and feasible.
Coordinate with the Watershed Management Program (see 18.0) to identify watershed processes that are important in maintaining and replenishing habitats within the estuary used by regularly occurring listed species.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Various regulatory and advisory agencies and organizations assist or potentially could assist with the implementation of an Endangered Species Protection and Recovery Program for CSMR (see Part I-D, Regulatory and Advisory Agencies and Public Interest Groups). Examples include the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service and Animal Damage Control that have helped with the management concerns for the Light-footed Clapper Rail and/or Salt Marsh Bird’s-beak. In addition, the California Native Plant Society has assisted with the removal of invasive exotics that threaten plants of special interest and individuals from the Santa Barbara Chapter of the National Audubon Society who have assisted with the censusing of avifauna, including Light-footed Clapper Rails and Belding’s Savannah Sparrows. Through the University’s research and education programs, important information on the biology of various sensitive species has been acquired (e.g., Burnell 1990, Callaway et al. 1990, Ledig 1989).

Limitations, Needs, Justification. As with most reserve-oriented programs, the lack of funds or limited funds to implement the many important projects provide obstacles to achieving many goals. With a complete and up-to-date checklist of historic, current, and expected species of special interest, we would be able to develop a more aggressive protection and recovery program with species-specific goals. At the present, the most urgent short-term need is to protect the recurrence of clapper rails at CSMR and perhaps assist with the re-establishment of a breeding population if that has not already occurred naturally. Because of the limited size of the estuary, and the developed nature of its margins as well as the lower portions of its watershed, it may not be possible to develop successful recovery plans for some species such as breeding colonies of Least Terns and Snowy Plovers and the re-establishment of spawning sites for Steelhead Trout.

It may be more desirable and feasible to develop regional goals for protection and recovery of special interest species so that all species are protected and even recovered from an endangered or threatened status but not necessarily at all sites where they occurred or where breeding populations occurred. To this end, it is desirable to develop realistic goals for selected species that are likely to be established or recover successfully at CSMR within the limited funding opportunities that exist. All large-scale habitat enhancement and restoration projects should be evaluated for the potential to assist in the protection and recovery of species of special interest. Likewise, all interagency programs should be evaluated and redesigned when necessary to minimize impacts to endangered species and endangered species habitats. Ultimately, these actions can be justified as necessary steps toward the re-creation of a self-sustaining estuarine ecosystem with wetland functions such as maintenance of biodiversity and endangered species habitat.

14.0 INVASIVE EXOTIC PLANT REMOVAL PROGRAM
The natural heritage values and ecosystem functions of urban reserves such as CSMR are often affected and even threatened seriously by the growth of exotic plant species if there is no effort to control or eliminate these introduced plants. Disturbance corridors such as the right-of-way of Union Pacific Railroad provide for potential recurrence of undesirable species such as Castor Bean, Giant Reed, and Pampas Grass. Ocean-deposited rack and stream-flow debris are additional sources of exotic plant propagules. Some species also have “escaped” from nearby yard and garden plantings (e.g., Hottentot Fig), or were planted years ago on the margin of the estuary (e.g., Myoporum). Refer to Fig. 30 for the location of some of the more problematic species.

Goal 14. Provide for the control or eradication of invasive exotic plants, particularly those that threaten sensitive habitats and endangered and special interest native species.

Policy 14-1. Identify invasive plant species and develop appropriate methods for the control, or when feasible, the eradication of the targeted plants.

Action 14-1.1. To the maximum extent feasible, eradicate all invasive species identified as problematic at CSMR.

Action 14-1.2. Avoid use of herbicides such as Roundup and Rodeo in the vicinity of the Reserve unless other alternatives have been found to be ineffective.

Action 14-1.3. Monitor the condition of the invasive species at least annually and take appropriate corrective measures if some species are found to affect the Reserve in an unacceptable manner.

Action 14-1.4. When opportunities occur, develop research programs related to the eradication of invasive species based on their ecology, invasiveness, and potential impacts to special status native species.

Action 14-1.5. Work with homeowners’ associations to remove exotic plants and encourage them to landscape their properties with native plants. Work with the homeowners’ associations to limit the use of herbicides that may affect the Marsh.

Status
The majority of the estuarine wetland habitats at CSMR are dominated exclusively by native plants. This is in contrast to the artificial berms and other adjacent upland habitats that can be dominated exclusively by exotic species, including plants from Eurasia, Africa, Australasia, South America, and elsewhere in North America such as Mexico. Enhancement of artificial landforms with native species and the potential restoration of natural landforms with existing or extirpated species will require the eradication or control of exotic plant species, particularly those that are classified as invasive exotic types that dominate the vegetation. On- going management goals include the eradication or control of many aggressive species that dominate some portions of the reserve such as the upland habitats and palustrine wetland habitats of the delta of Santa Monica Creek. Management techniques include manual and mechanical removal or trimming and occasional treatment with environmentally sensitive herbicides. Selected target invasive exotic species (see Fig. 30) include the following listed by scientific name with common name and plant family:

Arundo donax Giant Reed (Poaceae)
Brassica nigra Black Mustard (Brassicaceae)
Carduus pycnocephalus Italian Thistle
Carpobrotus edulis Hottentot Fig (Aizoaceae)
Conium maculatum Poison Hemlock (Apiaceae)
Cortaderia jubata Pampas Grass (Poaceae)
Foeniculum vulgare Sweet Fennel (Apiaceae)
Malephora crocea Croceum Iceplant (Aizoaceae)
Limonium ramosissimum Sea Lavender (Plumbaginaceae)
Myoporum laetum Myporum (Myoporaceae)
Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu Grass (Poaceae)
Ricinus communis Caster Bean (Euphorbiaceae)
Salsola tragus Russian Thistle (Chenopodiaceae)

Many other species are potentially problematic or not widespread enough at this time to warrant specific actions. Some of these include the following:

Atriplex semibaccata Australian Salt Bush (Chenopodiaceae)
Bassia hyssopifolia Five-hook (Chenopodiaceae)
Centaurea melitensis Tecolote, Napa Thistle (Asteraceae)
Cynodon dactylon Bermuda Grass (Poaceae)
Lolium multiflorum Italian Ryegrass (Poaceae)
Nicotiana glauca Tree Tobacco (Solanaceae)
Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum Slender Crystalline Iceplant (Aizoaceae)
Opuntia ficus-indica Indian-Fig (Cactaceae)
Pennisetum villosum Feathertop (Poaceae)
Pittosporum undulatum Victorian Box (Pittosporaceae)
Raphanus sativus Wild Radish (Brassicaceae)
Tetragonia tetragonioides New Zealand Spinach (Aizoaceae)

Recent management interest has turned to a species of Limonium (Sea Lavender, Plum-baginaceae) that has invaded portions of upper marsh near the mouth of the estuary (Fig. 30). A tentative identification is L. ramosissimum. As with many introduced species along berms and on bars, this species probably was ocean-transported from a local source and subsequently deposited as a fragment in rack that accumulates at the high tide line. It has rather successfully reproduced vegetatively and sexually and now covers many square meters of wetland habitat, including the only site on University property where Salt Marsh Bird’s-beak occurs, a Federal-listed endangered species (see 13.0, Endangered and Special Interest Species Protection and Recovery Program). Funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service initiated an eradication and research program to learn more about this species including its identity and potential methods of control or eradication. As with other invasive exotics at CSMR, this species has been located in several gardens near the estuary. It and other species of Limonium are sold in the local horticultural trade and may present a serious future problem because many of these species occur naturally in salt marshes in Europe and elsewhere and may colonize our coastal wetlands relatively easily. We do not know if this or other exotic species hybridize with the native Sea Lavender, Limonium californicum.

Implementation Priorities
Continuation of existing practices will keep in check many of the potential threats from exotic species. Once eliminated or controlled, some species may pose little threat. However, recurrences are common because of the proximity of other stands or populations. The railroad corridor is of particular concern and improved management of this adjacent land would reduce invasion from the northern boundary. However, due to the nature of this transportation corridor and that of Highway 101, continual maintenance will be essential.

The highest priority is the control of Limonium ramosissimum, which has been found as seedlings along various channels in the estuary where it has been distributed by tides. A potentially more serious threat would occur if this invasive species became established in the large population of Salt Marsh Bird’s-beak west of the current infestation.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Although the Reserve Manager and Steward have conducted most of the eradication activities, various UC researchers, members of the California Native Plant Society, and Eagle Scout projects have participated in the attempts to control Limonium ramosissimum. Elsewhere in the estuary and adjacent areas, the County Flood Control District has helped control Italian Thistle on berms and Union Pacific Railroad conducts routine annual maintenance of the railroad corridor. Although many aspects of the latter activity are helpful, it will be very important to develop an environmentally sensitive approach to weed control in the railroad right-of-way because at present there is annual spaying of unidentified herbicides from passing trains. This has caused the death of native salt marsh vegetation at various sites. Active participation on the Executive Committee of the Management Advisory Committee by a representative of Union Pacific Railroad will be essential for the development of practical and sensitive management practices within the corridor. This is particularly important because tidal wetland occurs within the right-of-way for much of the corridor along the northern margin of Basin III.

Other important constituents should include the local residents as well as the local or regional plant nursery and horticultural community. Alternatives to invasive exotic species should be made available by local landscape professions, and residents should be made aware of the particular plant species that are considered to be problematic to sensitive native species and habitats.

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
Per the discussion above, many limitations to control or eradicate invasive species include Reserve proximity to transportation corridors and proximity of sensitive habitats to horticultural plantings that can “escape” into the reserve. Another limitation includes repeated disturbance of access berms, which also can act as corridors for the movement of exotic plants and animals throughout the reserve, particularly in Basins I and II. Some of the limitations could be met with a regular effort by volunteers to assist with the program of eradication and control. Revegetation of disturbed areas with native plants also could be useful in reducing the re-infestation by some exotic species.

15.0 VECTOR CONTROL PROGRAM
Ten species of mosquitos are known to breed in Carpinteria Salt Marsh, including species that prefer fresh, brackish, or salt water. Refer to Fig. 31 for the distribution of these species. The Carpinteria Valley Mosquito Abatement District monitors the estuary during the rainy season and treats various sites, especially those with ponded water, to reduce or eliminate mosquitoes. These insects are native to the ecosystem but can be a nuisance to local residents if they occur in large numbers. Some of the native mosquito species also can carry malaria (e.g., Anopheles sp.), or encephalitis (e.g., Culex sp.). The most common practice of control is the use of “Golden Bear” oil in ponded areas, resulting in the smothering of mosquito and other larvae that breathe at the surface of water. Historically, various portions of the estuarine wetlands were “ditched” in an effort to drain ponded areas. This technique apparently had little impact on mosquito use of the wetlands. In general, vector control practices in wetlands should be viewed as a negative impact to wetland resources.

Goal 15. Reduce the need for vector control practices at CSMR.

Policy 15-1. To the maximum extent feasible, explore means to reduce or eliminate harmful vector control practices at CSMR.

Action 15-1.1. Work with the Carpinteria Mosquito Abatement District to inventory, evaluate, and approve appropriate vector control techniques, particularly for mosquitoes, used at Carpinteria Salt Marsh and vicinity.

Policy 15-2. Coordinate restoration and enhancement projects with the goal of reducing the need for vector control.

Action 15-2.1. Locate degraded sites that require vector control actions and design and implement restoration and enhancement projects that reduce or eliminate the need for vector control. Consider providing more tidal flushing of the north and west edges of the marsh to reduce mosquito habitat.

Action 15-2.2. Coordinate all restoration and enhancement projects with the Mosquito Abatement District to prevent the creation of mosquito breeding sites and the need for more vector control.

Status
The Carpinteria Valley Mosquito Abatement District has a regular monitoring pro-gram for mosquitoes in wetlands at Carpinteria Salt Marsh. As a result of this activity, ten species of native mosquitoes have been identified in the estuary and adjacent wetlands (Fig. 31). Most of the monitoring is conducted in the railroad right-of-way where water is impounded in artificial depressions after storms. Monitoring also is conducted along access berms and roads such as Avenue Del Mar and Ash Avenue, where water accumlates in diked portions of the estuary. Abatement activities generally include the application of oil on water surfaces to suffocate aquatic organisms that breath at the surface of water and occasionally the draining of ponded water. Apparent historic mosquito ditches can still be observed in the estuarine wetlands (see Fig. 31), such as in portions of Basin II and III, where they appear as short, straight lines that terminate the meanders of natural channels.

No actions have been taken to date to determine the presence of hanta virus among the potential local population of potentially susceptible rodents.

Implementation Priorities
Because implementation of the mosquito portion of the vector program is in place, priorities include (1) any modification of this plan that could result in approaches that could be more environmentally sensitive to aquatic organisms, and (2) implementation of a hanta virus component of the vector control program. The latter would be particularly important should a small mammal inventory or research project be under-taken at CSMR. In addition, design of all enhancement and restoration projects should consider methods to reduce the potential for mosquito habitat in artificially impounded or diked areas that might produce artificial mosquito habitat.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Constituents include the Carpinteria Valley Mosquito Abatement District that has the responsibility for implementation of the monitoring and abatement program. Other constituents include the University of California, Union Pacific Railroad, Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, and other property owners that might under-take land management practices that could produce artificial mosquito habitat. The UCSB Office of Environmental Health and Safety has the authority to conduct hanta virus monitoring activities within the CSMR.

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
The ten species of mosquitoes at Carpinteria Salt Marsh are part of the natural biological diversity of the wetland habitat diversity at this estuary and its adjacent habitats. It is not the intention of this plan to eliminate or alter this diversity, but to provide an opportunity to control potential occurrences that could threaten human health. To that end, modifications in artificial habitats that reduce the potential threat or improve natural ecosystem functions in degraded native habitats are encouraged. Close coordination of the program implemented by the District and the CSMR Vector Control Program is essential to achieve the goals of abatement and resource management.

16.0 ANIMAL DAMAGE CONTROL
Ground nesting birds in estuaries such as CSMR are extremely vulnerable to predation by various mammals (e.g., weasels, raccoons, skunks, opossums, domestic and feral cats, and red foxes) and some birds (e.g., egrets, herons, gulls, and crows). Eggs, juveniles, and adults are each vulnerable depending on the predator and prey involved. In addition to habitat loss, predation is another significant factor that has contributed to the endangerment of ground nesting birds such as the Light-footed Clapper Rail, a federal and state listed endangered species. Naturalized species such as red fox and feral cats are particularly problematic, even in low numbers.

Goal 16. Reduce predation on vulnerable native species such as ground nesting birds.

Policy 16-1. Work with regulatory agencies to reduce predation on ground-nesting birds and other sensitive and vulnerable species.

Action 16-1.1. Coordinate with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Animal Damage Control to trap and remove the predators of ground-nesting birds, particularly endangered species such as the Light-footed Clapper Rail, and to minimize the impact of predators on native species in Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Action 16-1.2. Work with adjacent property owners to control the potentially damaging effects of their dogs, cats and other pets on the marsh.

Status
The Light-footed Clapper Rail, a federally-listed endangered species, naturally occurs at Carpinteria Salt Marsh. Because of its presence, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provided approximately $5,000 to Animal Damage Control on three occasions to remove predators that are known to prey on ground-nesting birds, including Clapper Rails. Trapping during spring and summer 1993, 1995, and 1996 included a number of raccoons, opossums, and cats. There were a total of 202 trap nights in 1995. No red fox individuals, which are potentially the biggest threat to ground nesting birds, were trapped or observed by ADC staff during this period. One Sandyland Road property owner reported seeing a red fox on the road in summer 1995. Clapper Rails have been seen or heard at the estuary from March 1995 through November 1996 for the first time in seven years.

Implementation Priorities
This program has been in effect for several years, although annual trapping has not been accomplished. Monthly trapping occurred in spring and summer 1995. Within the 1995-96 boundaries of CSMR, trapping has taken place along Estero Way Extension and along berms on the margins of Basin II. It may be necessary to implement an ongoing program if Carpinteria Salt Marsh is to serve as a successful breeding site for clapper rails. To date, only mammals have been removed from the estuary, although various birds such as egrets and herons may also prey on young birds. Predation on another ground-nesting bird, Belding’s Savannah Sparrow, which is state listed as endangered, is possible. Predation by crows on nests could be a problem in some locations of the estuary.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Cooperation of all property owners is essential. With the entire estuary under one management authority, the Reserve Manager could coordinate taking a census of birds and the trapping of predators. Cooperation among the permitting, funding, and contracting agencies also is essential.

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
Animal Damage Control requires payment for services. Because predators are a threat to the endangered Light-footed Clapper Rail, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that administers the Endangered Species Act can justify providing limited funds for predator control. A single breeding season effort can cost as much as $5,000, which means it will be difficult to maintain a long-term program unless funds are identified from multiple sources to contribute to the effort.

Discussion
Carpinteria Salt Marsh had as many as 24 pairs of clapper rails as late as the early 1980s. However, from 1985 to 1988, a precipitous decline occurred and no clapper rails were observed for several years. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this loss was attributed largely to predation. Isolated clapper rails were heard and observed in the estuary in the early 1990s, and in spring 1995 a pair and several males were heard and/or seen. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service subsequently contracted with Animal Damage Control to remove mammalian predators from Basins II and III. Clapper rails were recorded for all months through November 1996. Four pair were reported in spring 1997 by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff (D. Zembal, pers. comm 1997). In summer 1996, at least one Clapper-rail chick was observed with an adult in Basin II. During 1995, at least five pairs of mallard ducks successfully fledged ducklings, and two to five from each nest were observed to reach maturity. These observations are perhaps another sign of the importance of predator control because mallard fledglings often do not reach maturity at CSMR.

17.0 CATASTROPHIC EVENT RESPONSE PROGRAM
Carpinteria Salt Marsh is an estuary in an urban setting, surrounded by roads, a highway, and a railroad corridor that are potential sites for catastrophic pollution events. Its watershed, i.e., catchment, is drained by two streams and a series of artificial and altered drainages that are potential sources of chronic as well as catastrophic events such as storm runoff and flooding. Furthermore, the estuary is along the South Coast of Santa Barbara County, which contains offshore oil platforms and commercial shipping lanes. The site is within an active tectonic zone, where a strong earthquake could cause serious damage to the resources and functions of the estuarine ecosystem. Thus CSMR is highly vulnerable to impacts from catastrophic events. In fact, the 1969 offshore platform oil spill produced an oil slick, some of which covered a portion of these wetlands; and 25 major floods have occurred in the Carpinteria Valley in the last 115 years. In the vicinity of Carpinteria, freeway and railroad accidents have caused serious gasoline and rocket fuel spills in the last decade that demonstrate the need for a response strategy to potential catastrophic events. Refer to Fig. 32 for locations of potentially hazardous areas and existing response sites or routes.

Goal 17. Provide a rapid response protocol for potential catastrophic events that could threaten Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Policy 17-1. Determine the responsibilities of the agencies that have jurisdiction in the Marsh and that respond to catastrophic events.

Action 17-1.1. Work with city, county, university, state, and federal agencies and appropriate corporations to determine individual and mutual aid responsibilities for emergencies in the Marsh.

Policy 17-2. Coordinate with appropriate agencies, corporations, and property owners to protect the estuary from marine oil and hazardous material spills.

Action 17-2.1. Work with the U.S. Coast Guard, State Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR), and Clean Seas to ensure immediate notice to the University of any offshore spill pursuant to the Oil and Hazardous Substance Contingency Plan.

Policy 17-3. Coordinate with appropriate agencies, corporations, and property owners to protect the estuary from terrestrial oil and hazardous material spills.

Action 17-3.1. Work with the State Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR), Clean Seas, and others to identify potential hazards from roads, Highway 101, the railroad right-of-way, and other potential sources.

Action 17-3.2. Work with the State Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR), Clean Seas, CalTrans, Union Pacific Railroad and others to develop and implement a contingency plan for response to hazardous events, including pipeline spills.

Action 17-3.3. Work with Union Pacific Railroad and others to develop and implement a contingency plan for railroad related accidents that may directly or indirectly harm the marsh.

Policy 17-4. Coordinate with the Santa Barbara County Flood Control District to develop and implement a plan to reduce flood threats in and around Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Action 17-4.1. Assist the Flood Control District in the sponsoring, permitting, and implementation of the Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Project as outlined in the Restoration and Enhancement Program and the Flood Control Program of this Plan (see 12.0 and 19.0)

Status
There is a marine oil spill response plan for the region (U. S. Coast Guard 1993) that is administered by the Coast Guard (see Part I-D, 10.4.1) and the State Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response (see Part I-D, 11.3.1). However, there is not an integrated plan for response to events from terrestrial causes such as freeway accidents, train wrecks, on-shore pipeline spills, major flood, and other catastrophic events that could affect sensitive habitats within the estuary. This program attempts to provide a framework and protocol for preventing and responding to a variety of catastrophic situations.

The marine oil spill response plan includes a ?site summary sheet? for each sensitive area including Carpinteria Salt Marsh (Site A-4-030, OSPR Map No. 106). The Sandyland Area (site B-4-029, OSPR Map No. 106) also is considered sensitive due to a population of pismo clams and wetlands at the mouth of Arroyo Paridon. Regarding an ocean spill, the proposed protection strategies for the Carpinteria Salt Marsh include the following:

(1) Primary Protection: Note: closing off mouth of the marsh via sediment dike probably will not be feasible due to scarcity of sediments, and nearly continuous water flow out. However, a sediment dike should be constructed if at all possible as it would provide the best protection.

(2) Secondary Protection: Line the entrance to the marsh with harbor boom and collect oil with appropriate skimmer (depending on oil type and debris).

(3) If #2 is not possible, divert oil to sandy banks and recover oil with appropriate skimmer, vac truck, and/or sorbents.

* Activate Wildlife Recovery portion of the ACP. Consider hazing birds from, the area with advice and consent of DFG and USFWS.

* Avoid walking in or disturbing vegetated areas of wetland whenever possible.

For inland spill: Attempt to contain the spill and recover the oil as close to the source of discharge as possible using appropriate means. If oil gets to the mouth consider containing it there if possible (via sediment dike, booming, etc.) for collection and to avoid oiling the beach and ocean resources. Primary concern is minimizing oiling of wetland habitats and organisms. Deflect or divert oil to appropriate collection area(s) and consider protecting vegetated banks by lining them with sorbent and/or hard boom. Again, avoid walking in or disturbing vegetated areas of wetland whenever possible.

Special Considerations: (1) Federal and state permits may be required…(2) All cleanup operations in the general area should be conducted with the advice and cooperation of DFG and the UCSB Reserve Manager and USFWS. (3) Air craft restrictions: None Known.

Implementation Priorities
A response plan already exists for marine spills: Area Contingency Plan Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties (U. S. Coast Guard 1993). The Reserve Manager has served on the Area Committee to provide information on Carpinteria Salt Marsh. Clean Seas Inc. of Carpinteria is retained as the major response team and they practice response to spills semi-annually at the mouth the estuary. Clean Seas (see Part I-D, 17.1) ) has a key to the main gate to CSMR at Estero Way in case emergency access is needed and the Reserve Manager is unavailable. No response plan or mechanism exists for terrestrial spills, although the State Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response would be in command of a terrestrial oil spill response effort. A clear protocol for response to catastrophic events of terrestrial origin is needed urgently, particularly in relationship to potential pollution from train derailments, freeway accidents, or effluent or spills emerging through the cement-lined creek channels, storm drains, and surface drains.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Refer to Appendix G for the “Federal and State Permit Requirements” required during oil spill response and related events. The following are important or potential members of the local response team.

NOAA Scientific Support Coordinator (Long Beach)
(310) 980-4107

U.S. Coast Guard (Santa Barbara)
(805 ) 962-7430

City of Carpinteria
(805) 684-5405 (x-402, Public Works)

Clean Seas Inc. (Carpinteria)
(805) 684-4719

County of Santa Barbara
(805) 568-3440 (Public Works – Flood Control)
(805) 681-5500 (Office of Emergency Services)

Department of Fish and Game (Carpinteria)
(805) 684-6281

Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR)
(800) 852-7550 (California Office of Emergency Response)

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Ventura)
(805) 644-1766

Union Pacific Railroad
(800) 873-3749 (Emergencies)

University of California, Santa Barbara
(805) 893-3283 (Director, Environmental Health & Safety)
(805) 893-4127 (UCSB NRS Office)
(805) 893-2506 (Manager, CSMR)

Sandyland Protective Association, Carpinteria (gate, Sand Point Road)
(805) 684-2649

Sandyland Cove Homes Association, Carpinteria (gate, Sandyland Cove Road and Ave. Del Mar)
(805) 684-2304

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
Because of the many sites that hazardous materials can drain or wash into the estuary, and because access to some areas is controlled or confined, there are limitations on the types of response that can be initiated and on the effectiveness of containment. In general, preventing a spill or other event from causing damage is a better approach than having to cleanup and remediate a situation. The limited amount of sand at the mouth of the estuary and the magnitude of wave action during some incoming tides may make closure of the mouth difficult with a sand berm or a boom. However, it is fortunate that Clean Seas Inc. is located nearby in Carpinteria, reducing the response time. There is a clear and urgent need for a coordinated Catastrophic Event Response Program due to the many potential events that could take place (e.g, spills, freeway accidents, train derailments, floods, earthquakes, etc.). The contamination of estuarine habitats because of the 1969 oil spill and the spill of hazardous materials within the local coastal region as a result of truck accidents or a train derailment provide justification for this program. We expect that the situation requires an approach of “when” and “how” rather than if one or more catastrophic events will occur within the life of this management plan. Thus it is important to have in place a response protocol due to the eventuality of such events.

18.0 WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
Ecological processes in Carpinteria Salt Marsh are strongly influenced by land use in the watershed (see also Part I-A, 4.3.5.1 Comprehensive Planning and Figure 5 for adjacent land uses in the watershed). For example, agricultural development increases rates of erosion, and thus influences the transport of sediments into the marsh through drainage culverts under Highway 101 and in Santa Monica and Franklin Creeks. Sedimentation in the marsh, i.e., filling in channels and tidal flats, reduces tidal flushing and habitat diversity, and smothers benthic fauna.

Development can also affect the amount and quality of freshwater runoff entering the marsh (see Part I, 4.3.8 Carpinteria Valley Water District) and contaminant levels in runoff and in shallow ground water (see 20.0 Ecosystem Monitoring Program). Annual storm runoff directed into the marsh dramatically lowers salinities, erodes channels, and transports large quantities of sediment, debris, nutrients, and other materials into the marsh (see 19.0 Flood Control Program). Perennial and temporary runoff entering the marsh is nutrient enriched. Runoff enriched in nitrate entering tidal channels contributes to the rapid deterioration of water quality during periods of reduced tidal flushing.

Other impacts to the marsh from the watershed include noise, exotic plant and animal species (see 14.0 Invasive Exotic Plant Removal Program), and the threat of catastrophic pollution events from freeway and railroad traffic (see 17.0 Catastrophic Event Response Program). Refer to Figure 33 for a remote sensing representation of the watershed and existing management features.

Goal 18. Provide for the long-term protection of the ecological functions and values of Carpinteria Salt Marsh from detrimental impacts originating in the watershed.

Policy 18-1. Protect the marsh from adverse impacts of new development in the watershed.

Action 18-1.1. Work with the California Coastal Commission, County of Santa Barbara, City of Carpinteria, and other responsible agencies to minimize or pre-vent degradation of marsh ecosystem functions or values from new development in the watershed (see 8.0 Public Service Program, Action 8-1.2).

Policy 18-2. Protect the marsh from adverse impacts resulting from the diversion of unappropriated water in creeks prior to reaching the Marsh.

Action 18-2.1. Work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control, the California Coastal Commission, Carpinteria Valley Water District, City of Carpinteria, County of Santa Barbara, California Department of Fish and Game, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, Regional Water Quality Control Board (Central Coast), and other responsible agencies to ensure that any diversion of freshwater from entering the marsh does not result in a reduction or degradation of marsh ecosystem functions or values.

Policy 18-3. Prevent the deterioration of marsh functions and values through the accumulation in channels, tidal flats, and vegetated marsh of adverse amounts of sediment originating in the watershed.

Action 18-3.1. Identify sediment inputs and sources to the marsh and develop plans to control, to the extent possible, this impact to the marsh.

Policy 18-4. Prevent the deterioration of marsh functions and values through increases of polluted surface runoff (see also 17.0 Catastrophic Event Response Program, Policy 17-3) from pesticides, herbicides, petrochemicals, excessive nutrient enrichment, heavy metals, etc.

Action 18-4.1. Work with the Regional Water Quality Control Board (Central Coast), California Department of Fish and Game, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other responsible agencies to ensure that runoff entering the marsh does not degrade the ecosystem.

Action 18-4.2. Work with responsible landowners and public agencies to im-prove, to the extent possible, the quality of runoff entering the marsh.

Action 18-4.3. Develop a water quality monitoring program for runoff in the watershed (see also 20.0 Ecosystem Monitoring Program) and take corrective actions when necessary, to improve water quality in drainages entering the marsh.

Status
The marsh is potentially protected from adverse effects of new development in the watershed by the California Coastal Act (see Part I, 11.1 California Coastal Commission), the Santa Barbara County and City of Carpinteria Local Coastal Plans (see Part I, 13.5 Planning and Development Department and 14.3.1 Carpinteria Local Coastal Program). It is also protected from the effects such development might have on sensitive marsh habitats and species as determined by California Department of Fish and Game (see Part I, 11.3 Department of Fish and Game) and U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (see Part I, 10.3.1 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). Sediment transport to the marsh is controlled to some extent through the desilting of the debris basins on upper Santa Monica and Franklin Creeks, the siltation basin on Via Real, and the channels of Santa Monica and Franklin Creek north of the marsh by Santa Barbara County Flood Control District (see 19.0 Flood Control Program). In addition, the water quality of irrigation runoff is regulated by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (see Part I, 4.2.9) although, in 1997, a water quality monitoring program does not exist and no criteria are available for acceptable levels of nutrients in this discharge.

Implementation Priorities
Implementation priorities for this Program are as follows (estimated costs, where available, are in 1997 dollars):

Identify sediment inputs and sources to the marsh and develop plans to control, to the extent possible, this impact to marsh habitats. (estimate = $30,000)

Develop funding for a long-term water quality monitoring program for runoff in the watershed (see also 20.0 Ecosystem Monitoring Program). (estimate = $6,000/year)

Continue to work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control, Department of Fish and Game, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Regional Water Quality Control Board (Central Coast) and other responsible agencies to ensure that activities in the watershed do not degrade the marsh ecosystem.

Maintain all culverts, ditches, basins, berms in appropriate condition to direct watershed runoff, control sedimentation, and maintain tidal circulation (see 4.0 Infra-structure, Facilities, and Equipment Program, Action 4-1.2).

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Participants in the Watershed Program include, but are not limited to, landowners in the watershed, Union Pacific Railroad, U. S. Forest Service, Santa Barbara County Flood Control, California Coastal Commission, Natural Resources Conservation Service, California Coastal Conservancy, Santa Barbara County Planning and Development Department, Carpinteria County Water District, City of Carpinteria, California Department of Fish and Game, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and the Regional Water Quality Control Board (Central Coast).
Limitations, Needs, and Justification

The lack of available funds will limit implementation of marsh sedimentation studies and the water quality monitoring portions of this Program. In addition, the success of this Program will depend on the participation and/or cooperation of landowners whose properties contribute sediment and irrigation runoff to the marsh (see also 20.0 Ecosystem Monitoring Program). To date, participation and cooperation of landowners has been mixed. Maintenance of culverts that connect drainages from Highway 101 to the marsh within the railroad corridor is the responsibility of and limited by the actions Union Pacific Railroad Company.

Discussion
To ensure the long-term protection of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh ecosystem, sedimentation impacts to the marsh need to be reduced. The effects of sedimentation in the marsh are clearly evident in the western portion of Basin III where approximately 10,000 sq. meters of the large tidal flat, a roosting and feeding site for shorebirds, has been replaced by salt marsh (Salicornia virginica) over the past 20 years. The remaining flat (approximately 31,000 sq. meters) has accreted to a tidal level that favors the dense growth of filamentous green macroalgae (Enteromorpha). In the east, dredging activities to remove sediments from Franklin Creek could indirectly affect east marsh restoration projects.

A work plan to manage flood waters and associated sediments in the Carpinteria Valley was completed in 1968 (see 19.0 Flood Control Program). This plan included modifications in the watershed to reduce erosion, flooding, and sedimentation in the floodplain that occurs during large storm events. The watershed portions of the project were completed and included the construction of a debris basin on upper Santa Monica Creek and a siltation basin on Via Real along with the concrete channelization of Franklin and Santa Monica Creeks north of the marsh. However, large volumes of sediments continue to enter the marsh during storm events and additional efforts should be made to reduce the erosion of agricultural land and to trap sediments prior to entering the marsh.

Various investigators have documented elevated levels of nutrients and toxic chemicals in drainages entering the western portion of the marsh (see 20.0 Ecosystem Monitoring Program). These inputs have been attributed to agricultural development, including greenhouses, located north of Highway 101. Following the water quality discharge violations of “Sandyland Nursery” (cited by Regional Quality Control Board in 1982 and 1983), Santa Barbara County Planning and Development Department reviewed greenhouse development in the Carpinteria Valley (County of Santa Barbara 1985; see also Part I, 13.5 Planning and Development Department). Unresolved issues cited in the report that pertain to the marsh include the need 1) to standardize requirements for retaining runoff from impervious surfaces, especially in groundwater recharge areas, 2) to monitor discharges from greenhouses to creeks and drain-ages, 3) to evaluate the effects of open field agriculture and other development on surface water quality, 4) to evaluate whether the conversion from open field agriculture to greenhouses affects nitrate application and mobility off-site, and 5) for cooperation between the Planning and Development Department and County Flood Control in the analysis of data obtained relating to development in the watershed and sediment in the Marsh. This review noted that the effect of greenhouse development on the marsh is a complex issue because of the many interrelated factors that may also affect this unique ecosystem.

The documented periodic illegal discharge of nutrient-rich irrigation water, crankcase oil, and other pollutants into drainage channels entering the marsh necessitates continual vigilance by responsible regulatory agencies and by the University (see 20.0 Ecosystem Monitoring Program).

The California Department of Transportation has proposed to widen U.S. Highway 101 from four to six lanes between the Milpas Street interchange in Santa Barbara to 1.1 miles north of Ventura County Line in City of Carpinteria (CalTrans and FHA, 1993). Seven culverts direct agricultural and urban runoff from the watershed into the ditch south of Highway 101 along the northern border of the Union Pacific Railroad berm. Four functional culverts convey flows beneath the berm and further into the marsh. Culverts draining into Carpinteria Salt Marsh (from CalTrans and FHA, 1993) include:

Route 101 culvert type Post mile Railroad culvert

1) 4′ long x 3′ RCB 4.66 3′ long x 32″ diameter CMP
2) 24″ diameter RCP 4.51 clogged with silt
3) 3′ x 24″ diameter RCP 4.42 3′ long x 24″ diameter CMP
4) 2′ x 30″ diameter RCP 4.35 clogged with silt
5) 36″ diameter RCP 4.26 none present
6) 2′ long x 48″ diameter RCP 4.16 2′ long x 18″ diameter CMP
7) 24″ diameter RCP 4.00 48″ diameter CMP

RCB=reinforced concrete box culvert
CMP=corrugated metal pipe
RCP=reinforced concrete pipe

The average distance between the edge of the present highway pavement and the railroad berm is approximately 35 feet. The proposed CalTrans project will potentially: 1) increase sedimentation into the marsh by enhancing soil erosion during construction, 2) increase storm water drainage into the marsh by increasing impervious surface area an additional ~5 acres for every mile of highway, 3) increase contaminant loading into the marsh both by increasing runoff and through increased inputs of rubber and petroleum residues and heavy metals (copper, lead, zinc and nickel). These pollutants can accumulate on the road surface and be washed into drainages by rainfall. This project may also increase the possibility of catastrophic hazardous spills entering the marsh, especially if such spills occurred during a storm event. If the CalTrans project proceeds, the above impacts to the marsh need to be avoided. Ferren (1993) stressed the need to recognize the potential impacts of this project on the entire marsh ecosystem rather than just on the drainage ditch south of the highway (CalTrans and FHA, 1993).

Another project was proposed that would have reduced freshwater flow into the marsh. Carpinteria County Water District and Chevron Land and Development Company proposed the appropriation of surface water from Santa Monica Creek for use in a ground water recharge program to mitigate adverse impacts of groundwater use by a residential development project (Carpinteria Bluffs Area I Specific Plan). This appropriation was estimated to result in about a 12% reduction or an average annual reduction of from approximately 1230 to 1080 acre-feet per year in surface water flow into the marsh during peak flow conditions (Woodward-Clyde 1982). Although the effects of the project on stream and salt marsh ecosystem were predicted to be minimal, Ferren (1991) successfully argued that no studies had been done to support this conclusion and that project affects on water quality, sedimentation, and resources, including young halibut that occur in Santa Monica Creek, were unknown or negative (see further discussion in Part I, 13.8 Carpinteria Valley Water District).

19.0 FLOOD CONTROL PROGRAM
Carpinteria Salt Marsh is a conduit for flood waters flowing from the watershed to the Pacific Ocean. Large areas of intensively developed agricultural and urban lands surrounding the marsh are subject to flooding, erosion, and the deposition of sediment and debris. At least 25 damaging floods have occurred in the Carpinteria Valley over the last 115 years. Flood waters and associated sediments cause the expansion of alluvial fans in the lower watershed which, without management, would eventually fill the marsh. Sedimentation reduces the marsh tidal prism and thus reduces the oxygenation of sediments and removal of pollutants and nuisance algae in channels and on tidal flats.

Factors exacerbating flooding and sediment deposition in the marsh and the surrounding floodplain include large winter storm events, erosion of agricultural land in the lower water-shed, fire in the upper watershed, and reduced drainage channel capacities in the marsh. In addition, obstruction of the marsh inlet by sand prevents the drainage of sediment-laden flood waters to the ocean. Refer to Figures 33 and 34 for the location of flood control activities in the watershed and at Carpinteria Salt Marsh and Figure 26 for proposed Restoration and Enhancement Program activities, including the deepening and widening of the Franklin Creek and Santa Monica Creek channels, the restoration of Basin I and II, and the Basin III Channel Study.

Several conditions were conveyed with the Grant Deed (see Appendix D) to the University of California for parcels now included within Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve. The first of these conditions is relevant to the Flood Control Program, and states the following:

The real property shall be maintained and used as a natural reserve for educational and scientific purposes…and no development of the real property shall be permitted whatsoever except such development which is necessary for maintenance and use of the real property as a natural reserve for educational and scientific purposes, including opening of the slough mouth to maintain tidal action in the salt water marshes on the real property and regulating flood waters from Santa Monica creek across the real property to assure maintenance of the real property for educational and scientific purposes.

Goal 19. Maintain and enhance the wetland functions of Carpinteria Salt Marsh by reducing flooding potential in urban and agricultural areas adjacent to or near the marsh (see also 17.0 Catastrophic Event Response Program, Policy 17-4).

Policy 19-1. Control sediment loading of the marsh to facilitate tidal flushing and improve fish nursery habitat in a manner compatible with the flood control function of marsh channels.

Action 19-1.1. Work with responsible public agencies to adopt policies that will reduce sedimentation in the marsh caused by land uses in the watershed.

Action 19-1.2. Facilitate implementation of the “Carpinteria Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase II – Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Project” to reduce sedimentation and enhance tidal flushing of the marsh, and to maintain the flood control function of the concrete channels upstream of the marsh (see also 17.0 Catastrophic Event Response Program, Action 17-4.1).

Action 19-1.3. Work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control District to ensure that sediment basins are maintained and that sediments periodically removed from drainage channels north of the marsh.

Action 19-1.4. Work with the County and Union Pacific Railroad to ensure the maintenance of culverts that convey flood runoff into the marsh (see 4.0 Infrastructure, Facilities, and Equipment Program, Action 4-1.2).

Action 19-1.5. Work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control to ensure that the marsh inlet remains open, permitting sediment-laden flood waters to reach the Pacific Ocean (see also 11.0 Ecosystem and Resource Preservation and Maintenance Program, Action 11-3.1).

Policy 19-2. Minimize, to the extent possible, physical disturbance of Carpinteria Salt Marsh habitats and wildlife during flood control construction and maintenance activities.

Action 19-2.1. Work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control and responsible agencies to coordinate the timing, locations, and frequency of construction work and maintenance dredging of drainage channels.

Policy 19-3. Wherever possible, seek to restore wetland habitats degraded by flood control and other activities pursuant to the “Carpinteria Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase II, Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Project”.

Action 19-3.1. Implement the Phase II Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan following completion of environmental review.

Status
A work plan to manage flood waters in the Carpinteria Valley was completed in 1968 (Santa Barbara Soil Conservation District et al. 1968). This plan, the “Carpinteria Valley Watershed Project ” proposed modifications in the watershed and in Carpinteria Salt Marsh to reduce erosion, flooding, and sedimentation in the floodplain that occurs during large storm events. All of the proposed portions of the project have been completed except those in the marsh which are included in the “Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan” (see Discussion). Completed portions include the construction of the Santa Monica Creek debris basin located on Santa Monica Creek about 3500 feet upstream of Foothill Road. This basin is composed of a 60 foot high dam on the upstream side and a 150 foot high dam on the downstream side and is designed to trap 208,000 cubic yards of flood debris (Santa Barbara County Flood Control and Water Conservation District 1996). There are a total of six debris basins within the watershed (see Fig. 33). Four of these basis are called “grade stabilizers” and two are “debris barriers”. In addition, 5.7 miles of concrete-lined channels designed to convey runoff from a 100 year flood event were constructed in Franklin and Santa Monica Creeks north of the marsh.

Although not mentioned as a component of the Carpinteria Valley Watershed Project (Santa Barbara Soil Conservation District et al. 1968), a debris basin was constructed on the main branch of Franklin Creek about 4800 feet north of Casitas Pass Road in 1971. This structure, designed to trap 12,400 cubic years of flood debris, was built by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers after the Romero Fire burned a large portion of the watershed.

The Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan has not gone through the required environmental review process. Regular maintenance desilting of the debris basins on Santa Monica Creek and Franklin Creek, the siltation basin on Via Real, and Santa Monica and Franklin Creek channels by Santa Barbara County Flood Control continues on an as needed basis under an EIR for Flood Control Maintenance of rivers, streams, and drainages (Philbrick and Reynolds 1990). Long-term maintenance of debris basins consists of complete debris removal after the basin fills ~25% or every ~5 to 10 years, or after a significant fire (Santa Barbara County Flood Control and Water Conservation District 1996).

Implementation Priorities
The following are Implementation Priorities in the Flood Control Program:

Work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control to ensure continued maintenance desilting of the Santa Monica and Franklin Creek debris basins and the siltation basin on Via Real and of Franklin and Santa Monica Creeks north of the marsh to expedite sediment transport through the marsh.

Continue to work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control to maintain the inlet open to tidal flushing.

Assist Santa Barbara County Flood Control with the completion of the planning, review, permitting, and implementation of the Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Project.

Work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control to ensure continued maintenance desilting of the Santa Monica and Franklin Creek debris basins and the siltation basin on Via Real and of Franklin and Santa Monica Creeks north of the marsh to expedite sediment transport through the marsh.

Continue to work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control to maintain the inlet open to tidal flushing.

Assist Santa Barbara County Flood Control with the completion of the planning, review, permitting, and implementation of the Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Project.

Continue to work with Union Pacific Railroad to maintain culverts leading into the marsh and Santa Barbara County Flood Control to replace dilapidated culverts under the Estero Way Extension that connect Basins II and III.

Work with Santa Barbara County Flood Control to hydraulically remove sand from channels in Basin III, the accumulation of which is destroying important native fish nurseries.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Agencies participating in the Flood Control Program include, but are not limited to, UCSB, The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, Sandyland Cove Homes Association, Sandyland Protective Association, Santa Barbara County Flood Control District, City of Carpinteria, Santa Barbara County Planning and Development Department, California Department of Fish and Game, Regional Water Quality Control Board (Central Coast), State Coastal Conservancy, California State Coastal Commission, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Natural Resource Conservation Service, and the Army Corps of Engineers.

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
Implementation of the “Carpinteria Marsh Restoration Plan; Phase II, Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan” awaits funding by Santa Barbara County Flood Control to begin the Environmental Impact Review process. Ferren (1992) cited reasons to move forward with Phase II that included the restoration opportunities created by project mitigation (recreation of tidal salt marsh and channel habitat in degraded Basin 1), and concerns for water quality, sedimentation of channels and tidal flats, and reduced tidal flushing.

Discussion
Although sedimentation is a natural process, it apparently has been accelerated in the estuary as a result of land use practices in the adjacent watershed. The Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan is the final component of the Carpinteria Valley Watershed Project and contains both wetland restoration and flood control projects. Santa Barbara County Flood Control District is the primary local sponsor for the project, which will be largely funded by the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (formerly the Soil Conservation Service). The California Coastal Conservancy, University of California and the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County are co-applicants for the project. Overall objectives of this project are to enhance habitat values, particularly for the endangered species that depend on the marsh, by increasing tidal circulation and flushing and to protect surrounding urban and agricultural developments from flooding. This plan has become a part (Phase II) of the larger “Carpinteria Salt Marsh Restoration Plan” which includes the City of Carpinteria’s “Ash Avenue Wetland Area” as Phase I (see also 12.0 Restoration and Enhancement Program). Because Phase I and Phase II are adjacent to each other the final design of each must reconcile the following: (1) current areas of physical overlap, (2) timing of construction, (3) mitigation plans, and (4) post-construction monitoring (Ferren, 1992).

The Carpinteria Marsh Restoration Plan, Phase II Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan, includes plans for wetland restoration in Basin I and the South Marsh. Restoration design alternatives for Basin I include the dredging of tidal channels and the creation of islands supporting high marsh vegetation that could provide habitat for the Light-footed Clapper Rail. The slopes of islands will provide an environmental gradient from high marsh to tidal channel, increasing the natural diversity of botanical resources and habitats. The project will also include revegetation of disturbed areas with native species.

Channel improvements will allow for better sediment management and increased tidal flushing. Improvements include the deepening and widening of Franklin Creek and the Main Channel and the modification of berms to direct flood flows away from adjacent residential developments. Sediment basins will be installed on Santa Monica and Franklin Creeks just south of the railroad tracks to trap sediment, preventing deposition further inside the marsh. Dilapidated culverts along the Estero Way extension will be replaced to improve tidal circulation in Basin II.

The Carpinteria Marsh Enhancement Plan will play an important role in the long-term environmental health of Carpinteria Salt Marsh and Reserve by helping to control sedimentation of channels, tidal flats, and vegetated marsh, by facilitating tidal flushing of marsh habitats, and through the restoration of degraded marsh in Basin I. This project is fundamentally a marsh enhancement project and final implementation will depend on the availability of funding and the satisfactory resolution of issues related to the preservation and enhancement of marsh functions and values as determined by the University in consultation with the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Advisory Committee. These issues include, but are not limited to, the proposed relocation of Sandyland Cove Road to the eastern margin of Santa Monica Creek, proposed berm heights, the construction of a bridge connecting the Estero Way Extension with the western terminus of the berm along the northern margin of the Main Channel, removal of dredge spoil, the stabilization of banks, replacement of Estero Way Extension culverts, and modifications to the Main Channel and inlet (Ferren, 1993).

20.0 ECOSYSTEM MONITORING PROGRAM
The Carpinteria Salt Marsh ecosystem is susceptible to environmental degradation. Agricultural and urban developments over the last 100 years have dramatically reduced marsh area, contributing to a decrease in the diversity of habitats and species. Development has adversely affected marsh water quality and has increased sedimentation into the marsh, necessitating the dredging and channelization of waterways (see also 18.0 Watershed Management and 19.0 Flood Control Programs).

Other potential threats to ecosystem health include destructive human and animal disturbance (e.g., fires, trampling of vegetation), periodic closure of the estuary inlet, invasive plant and animal species (see 14.0 Invasive Exotic Plant Removal Program), catastrophic pollution events (e.g. oil and toxic chemical spills, see 17.0 Catastrophic Event Response Program) and long-term changes in global climate. Pesticide and herbicide use in the water-shed, including the region along the northern border of the marsh, remains a potential threat to wildlife in the marsh. The impacts of these and other disturbances on marsh resources need to be assessed over the long-term using physical and biological data collected in a comprehensive monitoring program. Refer to Figure 35 for examples of existing monitoring stations and transects at Carpinteria Salt Marsh.

Goal 20. Establish a monitoring program to protect and maintain the natural diversity of species, habitat types, and functions provided by the Carpinteria Salt Marsh ecosystem.

Policy 20-1. Protect the environmental health of Carpinteria Salt Marsh by detecting any degradation in ecosystem functions and by initiating corrective measures if needed.

Action 20-1.1. Cooperate with Regional Water Quality Control Board, California Department of Fish and Game, U. S. Fish and Wildlife, Carpinteria Sanitary District, and other agencies in their environmental monitoring programs (e.g., water quality, threatened and endangered species).

Action 20-1.2. Coordinate the Ecosystem Monitoring Program with the monitoring elements of other programs in the Plan (e.g., 13.0 Endangered and Special Interest Species Protection and Recovery Program, 14.0 Invasive Exotic Plant Removal Program, 15.0 Vector Control Program, 16.0 Animal Damage Control Program, 17.0 Catastrophic Event Response Program, and 18.0 Watershed Management Program).

Action 20-1.3. Acquire annual aerial photographs of the marsh for use in detecting large scale, long-term changes in habitats and vegetation (see 6.0 Research Program, Policy 6-3).

Action 20-1.4. Establish the capability to obtain continuous physical data at the marsh (e.g. tides, air temperature, and rainfall) for use by researchers and regulators.

Action 20-1.5. Establish a water quality monitoring program to detect the presence of toxicants and excessive concentrations of nutrients in the marsh. This should include the periodic screening of sediment and mussel tissue for classes of pesticides and herbicides that may represent a threat to marsh fauna. Initiate corrective measures as necessary.

Action 20-1.6. Establish a monitoring program to detect long-term changes in vegetation and in invertebrate, fish and bird populations.

Status
Elements of this program are on-going (vegetation, invertebrate, fish and bird surveys) or have occurred in the mid-1990s (water quality) and often form portions of larger research projects (see 6.0 Research Program). Unfortunately, these studies, while extremely valuable, are generally of short duration (1 to 3 years), often graduate student research, and are unlikely to provide information on subtle or long-term changes occurring in the marsh ecosystem. Portions of this Program overlap with monitoring portions of other programs (e.g. 13.0 Endangered and Special Interest Species Protection and Recovery Program, 14.0 Invasive Exotic Plant Removal Program, and 15.0 Vector Control Program), but monitoring is often irregular and anecdotal In addition, most current studies are unable to resolve changes due to normal or natural fluctuations in environmental conditions (e.g., caused by weather patterns) from those caused by anthropogenic perturbations of the ecosystem.

Implementation Priorities
Acquire funding for a comprehensive, long-term Ecosystem Monitoring Program, that includes water quality, vegetation, invertebrates, fish, and birds (see II-B, 2.0 Fiscal Program, Policy 2-2). Monitoring should be coordinated so that samples or observations are collected from fixed stations and at the same times.

Constituents (Existing and Potential)
Participants in the Ecosystem Monitoring Program include, but are not limited to, the Land Trust for Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County Planning and Development Department, Carpinteria Sanitary District, Santa Barbara County Health Care Services Department, California Department of Fish and Game, Regional Water Quality Control Board (Central Coast), State Coastal Conservancy, California Coastal Commission, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and the Natural Resources Conservation Agency.

Limitations, Needs, and Justification
The availability of funding limits full implementation of the Ecosystem Monitoring Program at this time. Long-term monitoring requires funding for field work and water quality monitoring has additional costs associated with analysis of samples in the laboratory. There is a need for weather monitoring equipment to continuously record air temperature, irradiance, and humidity levels; factors that may affect algal and plant growth and thus invaluable information for research scientists. The construction of a small laboratory on-site would facilitate the collection and processing of environmental data (see II-B, 4.0 Infrastructure, Facilities, and Equipment Program, Policies 4-2 and 4-3).

Discussion
An Ecosystem Monitoring Program is required because several studies have documented the entry of contaminants into Carpinteria Salt Marsh and Reserve (Page, 1979, 1982, 1990, 1993, 1995ab; California Department of Fish and Game, 1981; MRC Services, 1982; Stanley and Scholin, 1984). A Regional Water Quality Control Board bioassay study (1993) characterized the waters of the West Drain and of Franklin Creek as “impacted”. For example, high concentrations of nitrate occur in three drainages entering the marsh while organo-chlorine pesticide and/or PCB and petroleum residues have been reported historically in the West Drain channel. In a comprehensive study of nutrient input into the marsh, Page et al. (1995) estimated seasonally high, non-storm, loading rates of nitrate-nitrogen from the watershed in January 1993, of up to approximately 400 moles per hour. This value could be an order of magnitude higher during storm events. However, most of this nitrate input is exported to the Santa Barbara Channel because runoff is retained in channelized streambeds minimizing contact with the vegetated marsh.

An Ecosystem Monitoring Program is also required to obtain background data necessary to evaluate the impacts of catastrophic spills of oil and hazardous chemicals in the ocean, railroad corridor, and Highway 101 on the marsh. The possibility of such spills will increase if the CalTrans proposal to widen Highway 101 is implemented (see 18.0 Watershed Program). In addition, changes in vegetation and habitat have occurred over time, including an increase in filamentous green algae on the large tidal flat in Basin III. The Monitoring Program will enable marsh managers to document the spread of nuisance algae, exotic plant and animals species and to assess the impact of these species on marsh functioning. Finally, the long-term monitoring database will prove invaluable to researchers evaluating the effects of long-term climate change on coastal ecosystems.